Hands Down

{Great spread for a bunch of girls...add some bigger bites for the guys}

Everybody likes to party. There's nothing more satisfying than having a productive, yet challenging, work week followed by a gathering of friends to drink, laugh, and be merry. We all know that the only facet worse than the clean up portion of the event (for me that encompasses placing saran wrap on absolutely everything not nailed to the table and throwing it in the fridge, followed very closely by yours truly falling asleep face down on the couch)  is not being able to be a party to your own party. Hosting a party can be considered very "hands on". How many of us end up in and out of the kitchen all evening or throughout the meal replenishing serving dishes and drinks or stand within inches of the grill, which is as far away from everyone else as could be possible,.....kind of nodding and grinning only catching a glimpse of all the fun??? Not. any. more. Ladies and Gents, I give you the "Grazing Party". Choose a bunch of different items covering all of the basic food groups and all that can stand at room temperature and there you have it. You can sit with your friends, truly integrate yourself into the conversation or gaming that may be had, and RELAX. This is a great party option for smaller groups in a more casual setting. Offer different types of wine, a couple different cheeses, finger fruits, simple veggies and dip (hummus preferred), a small meat selection and so forth. There's a little something for everyone. Look ma..no hands.