My Book Club Social

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As many of you know, I love to read and was excited to socialize with a group of wonderful ladies, so I accepted an invitation to join a book club. Each month, one of us volunteers to host the club at home for a night. What usually happens is this…we talk about the book for a few minutes and then spend the remainder of the evening gabbing about our lives with each other. It’s always a good time!

Well, it was finally my turn to host! Our book was The Other Wes Moore, which was a great read for me...but I had anxiety about hosting a party. I had not held a party since Nicole's American Doll birthday party! Luckily I had already decorated for spring with my Valerie Parr Hill decorations, so that was all set.

Cleaning was on my agenda...and, I had to dream up a signature drink. I needed something easy, so I combined a scoop of raspberry sorbet, champagne, and fresh raspberries...simple, pretty, and pink!

I took your advice and kept things simple for the food...I grew up in a household where my mother could create a literal vat of crab dip at a moment’s notice, so I was well prepared. I made some crab dip with crackers of course, and I also tried making cheese fondue and chocolate fondue. I used a cheese fondue mix from a package and served it with fresh baguettes, broccoli, ring bologna, pretzels, and veggies.

The chocolate fondue was a combination of melted Ghirardelli chocolate, about two tablespoons of Grand Marnier, and orange zest. I served pound cake, cookies, pretzels, and strawberries to dip into the chocolate.

I also tried a new, easy recipe of dates and blue cheese. You should try it, I thought it was a real win—salty and sweet, creamy and crunchy. Buy pitted dates, cut a slit into them, then stuff each with Gorgonzola picante cheese. Finish with a sprinkle of toasted sliced almonds and a drizzle of honey...so good!

My friends brought wine, scones, and a delicious stuffed appetizer...and as they all came through my door I realized my worries were for nothing....true friends do not care whether your house is spotless or your food is amazing! We had a wonderful night of friendship, both sharing our lives and discussing the book.

I had party gifts for my book club friends too! Philosophy Bath & Body

I thank those of you who were kind enough to lend me your advice to keep it simple and enjoy! Please share your entertaining tips for my next book club party...

By the way, our next book is My Name is Lucy Barton...you are all invited!

All the best,

Pat

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