Party On

Family Luau Party

Parties do take some planning and work, but it's such fun to share some food and time with family and friends.

You don't have to take months planning a party or spend a fortune. Really you don't.

One of my best party memories was an impromtu back to school cook out. The kids were kind of bummed about the summer coming to and end but also excited about getting back to school and seeing buddies. It was one of those bittersweet weekends. I ran down to the grocery store and picked up hot dogs, beans, and chips and grilled out. My boys rounded up the neighbor kids. Some of the adults even wandered over. It ended up being a neighborhood event. Nothing fancy. But a lot of fun.

Some parties become traditions. I offered to plan the Christmas dinner one year. The schedules were a mess. Different family members had to be here or there at this time and that. I shifted gears and planned a brunch - before everyone began running around. That worked out well, so I always host a Christmas morning brunch now.

My son graduated from high school this year, and I put together a luau. He's not real comfortable with formal gatherings especially if he thinks he's going to end up the center of attention. The luau was a drop in affair and lasted most of the day. We had water guns, a blow up pool, and a Slip 'n Slide. Everything was very relaxed. Everyone got a chance to see the graduate before he headed off to college but he didn't feel overwhelmed. Different parties work for different folks.

Party Guides

Barbecue Luau (my son's graduation party)
Tailgating (tips and tailgate check list)
Super Bowl Soup Party (also good for a church or group fundraiser)