I've been thinking about this because later this week, I'll be hosting a simple cookie swap for some of my friends from church. This board has some great printables for a cookie exchange, including invitations. It's way too late for that, but some of the other ones might be fun. The last time I did a cookie swap, we didn't make it competitive at all, but this printable has a way to vote for most creative, best tasting, most festive, etc. We will see. I sort of want to keep it relaxed.
This board also has a great post about hosting an ornament exchange party and several different ways that can be done. My daughter and hubby out west have hosted a party like this a number of times and it sounds like a lot of fun. I've thought for awhile about doing this.
And I seem to have pinned a great many ideas for hot cocoa bars. Seems like it's something I really want to do! Last year my daughter Carrie did one of these and left it up all winter. It was handy when the kids (or anyone) came in from sledding or other outdoor winter activities. She has one all set up for this year, too. Below is a photo of last year's hot cocoa bar.
I have a few recipes pinned also -- a cranberry lime party punch that looks so festive and refreshing, a peppermint bark cheesecake, a gingerbread cake with cream cheese frosting, and more. There's also a peppermint bark cheesecake dip into which one dips chocolate-covered pretzels!
Last but not least, I pinned a wonderful post from blogger Diane Miller concerning stress-free holiday entertaining. The first point she makes is that we must always remember that hospitality is not about us. This quote really hit home with me: "It’s about gathering people together to have fun, to develop friendships, to offer a place of safety, a place of peace, and to break bread together. People come with all kinds of baggage. Your job as a host is to think about your guests, their comfort, and most of all to listen, care, and offer true hospitality." I loved this. She said it so well.
Thinking about Christmas hospitality? Head over to my Christmas hospitality board for some ideas!
Diane says it well. So true! I have often felt perfectly at home and at peace in a friend’s home. My friend Cheryl of Thinking About Home says it this way: Hospitality is to bless not impress.
ReplyDeleteYou must do a cocoa bar, tea bar, coffee bar. It will be fun and festive. Have you seen The Christmas Tea recipe at Creekside Cottage? It sounds tasty.
Off to see your Pinterest page!
I like that quote as well. I will have to check out the cranberry lime punch.
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