Host A Holiday Away

Since my family is 650 miles away in North Carolina and I'm staying in town for Christmas, I have decided to invite a few others who might be spending the holiday alone to stop by for a bite. The best way to make it a special day is to have everyone bring something.

This year, I have invited a variety of people...friends, neighbors, coworkers. It is a good idea to supply the meat or main dish and then ask everyone to bring a casserole or vegetable side dish that travels well. You will be surprised what everyone comes up with and may even get a new recipe for a dish that you love.

Set everything out on your table or kitchen bar and let everyone help themselves buffet style. It doesn't matter if you don't have enough seats at the table; people can eat off their lap in the living room or in shifts at the table. Part of the fun for this type of event is the casualness making people feel very homey and comfortable. This year, invite some folks over who might have spent the day alone and get the best gift of all...a smile!