Vicki F. Chavis's Blog

Posted by Vicki F. Chavis

Serve Honey-Rum Coffee during holiday parties, its full-bodied flavor won't disappoint.

Honey-Rum Coffee

Ingredients:

• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• 6 Tblsp honey
• 1-1/2 quarts freshly brewed hot coffee
• 1/2 cup dark rum

Directions:

1. In a med-sized pan, combine evaporated milk and honey. Stirring occasionally, cook over med-high heat until milk is warm.
2. Add coffee. Stir until well blended. Remove from heat. Stir in rum. Serve hot.

Makes: six servings in mugs. Cheers!

Posted by Vicki F. Chavis

Good planning eliminates those last-minute glitches. I know, there are always glitches in real life, no matter how much we try to avoid them. But let's focus on the tools we have to plan, execute, and enjoy our own party.

Once we've come up with an occasion or a date, our party plans can begin.

Step One

Put together your guest list and then ask yourself the following questions:

• Can I serve this group without blowing my budget?
• Can I really afford to have this many?
• Am I being realistic?
• Do I have the space in my home for this party?

Step Two

Select your serving style

• Can I afford to hire a caterer?
• Can I ask the participants to bring a side dish?
• Will this be a buffet or a sit-down meal?
• Can I add extra seating on my outdoor patio or lanai?
• Can I use the community clubhouse if I need it?

Step Three

Decide on the type of party

• brunch
• outdoor party
• dinner cruise
• luncheon
• cocktail party
• dessert & coffee
• birthday
• surprise party
• garden party
• family reunion

Step Four

Invite the guests

• Invite guests (in writing or by phone or by email) a week or two ahead of time.
• Invite out-of-town guests sooner, at least a month or more, if possible.
• Invitations should include date, time, place, occasion, map, what to wear, and what to bring.

Now you're ready to plan your party menu and work out the details. You can pull off a successful soiree and have a great time while doing it. Each decision you make takes you closer to the point of actually enjoying the party.