tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46913079823437869072024-03-20T11:12:36.728-04:00Chiff.com Party IdeasParty ideas, tips & advice.Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.comBlogger31125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-35707143969318655372012-07-12T07:37:00.000-04:002012-07-12T07:37:05.411-04:00Sun Tea for Tots' Tea PartiesScratch those images of Little Miss Princess and her legion of stuffed animals dining on imaginary cakes whilst sipping tepid water.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tea parties are much more fun and much more inclusive in the gender role free world of today's toddlers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A young man we know loved watching cooking shows and carried his set of wooden menu items to every restaurant. The chefs (all of them men) loved the little foodie and actually appeared at the table to encourage him to keep playing with his food. Fussy two year old behavior was never a problem. He is now six and a picky eater, but he still loves experimenting with peanut butter (no jelly, please).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tea parties at his house are delightful. Mom and dad invested in a cheap, real tea set years ago. As cups break, they get glued back together. He knows which are leaky and won't serve liquids in those. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Boiling water is a no no, but iced tea is a favorite. A big jar of sun tea prepared with herbal mint and fruit teas are fun to make and taste great. Sugar can be cut to a minimum because the teas taste so good without it. If you have a nice garden patch, you can <a href="http://www.chiff.com/a/garden-herbs-teas.htm">grow your own teas</a> or just pick up a variety at the local grocery.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Set a big plastic jar filled with water and tea bags in the sun and let it steep. We use a very big plastic container that was once filled with pretzels. You need one tea bag for every two cups of water. The sun does the cooking. If you are inviting friends or neighbors kids for the tea party, let them come early and help with the prep. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Food can be animal crackers with peanut butter or bread cut into fun shapes with cookie cutters and topped with whatever will get eaten. Some kids prefer real food like cheese, ham, turkey or other cold cut choices as sandwich stuffers. Finger foods are fun and most kids, tots to teens, like carrots, celery sticks and olives to munch on. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The best part of this tea party is that you really don't have to invite anyone. It is a great way for the family to make lunch together and sit at the same table enjoying the "party" lunch! Even picky eaters have fun when they are the chef preparing the feast!</span></div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-15492954843731854312012-07-10T01:59:00.000-04:002012-07-10T01:59:53.645-04:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b style="color: #555555; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Jim-Dandy, Whizbang & Humdinger Appreciation Day is July 9!</b><br />
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<span style="color: #555555; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Are you asking exactly what is it that gets celebrated on Jim-Dandy, Whizbang & Humdinger Appreciation Day? <br /><br />We were wondering the same thing. Lucky for us we found </span><a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/65067569/The-Random-House-Thesaurus-of-Slang">The Random House Dictionary of Slang</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">which cleared up the whole thing pretty quickly. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">It seems that just about anything that is </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="color: purple;">A, A-1, A number one, A plus,</span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><i style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; line-height: 200%;"><span style="color: #76a5af;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">sly,</span><span style="font-size: x-large;">
copacetic</span><span style="font-size: 11pt;">, kopesetic, , gnarly, smashing,</span><span style="font-size: large;"> brilliant</span><span style="font-size: 11pt;">, super, brutal, ace high,</span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span></span></i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; letter-spacing: 0.75pt; line-height: 200%;"><span style="color: red;">awesome, first class, first chop or first rate, golden, dynamite, unreal,</span> <span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: blue;">cool, coolsville, zero cool, cold, cool, chill, stone cold,</span></span><span style="color: #cc0000;"> boss, stunning, heavy, hundred proof,</span><span style="color: lime;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: lime; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; line-height: 200%;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">wicked, gimchy, check plus, stellar, dreamy,</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; line-height: 200%;"><i><span style="letter-spacing: -2.25pt;"> </span></i></span></span><i style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 200%;"><span style="color: yellow;"><b>all wool and a</b></span></span></i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; line-height: 200%;"><span style="color: yellow;"><b> <i style="font-size: 11pt;">yard</i> <i><span style="font-size: 11pt;">wide,
jam up, slap up,</span><span style="font-size: large;"> fine and dandy</span></i><i style="font-size: 11pt;">,</i> </b></span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-style: italic;">crack, solid gold, crackerjack,</span> <span style="color: orange;">peacherino, peach, peachy, ginger peachy or peachy keen </span></b></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">qualifies as a party focus on this wonderful day</span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 200%;">.</i><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 200%;"></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 200%;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 200%;">If it's the most, the berries, </span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 30px;">the bee's knees, the cat's meow, the cat's whiskers, the cat's pajamas, the butterfly's book, the caterpillar's kimono, the greatest, </span></i><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 30px;">out of this world, out of sight, </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 30px;">top of the line, </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 30px;">state </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 30px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 30px;">of </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 30px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 30px;">the </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 30px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 30px;">art, a </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span></span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 200%;">lollapaloosa or a </span></i><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="letter-spacing: -1.5pt; line-height: 200%;">super-duper, hooper-dooper, super-</span><span style="line-height: 200%;">colossal,</span></i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 200%;"> <i>sweetheart, catch </i>get ready to celebrate!<br /><br />But why limit your celebrations of the totally tubular to just one day a year? We say that every day should be </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="color: lime; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Jim-Dandy, Whizbang & Humdinger Appreciation Day!</span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 32px;">Why stop at that? Why not have a whole Jim-Dandy, Whizbang & Humdinger Appreciation Year, Decade or even Century!! Here's to the best peachy, caterpillar's kimono, gnarly, far out, fantastic time of your life and the party that goes with it!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 32px;">Stop in at the Chiff.com party pages for tips on drinks, recipes and anything else you need to know for, well... the greatest, out of this world, hundred proof, dreamy party ever!</span></div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-39966186658701115602011-05-02T12:02:00.000-04:002011-05-02T12:02:26.398-04:00Teacher's Day Recipes - Homemade Treats to Honor Your Favorite Teacher<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsuFk4_EA_MRHgohGVbfbInnHOT5jrKFEnSyjybXX92QADgya_D26uCkDgs6MCrhC_YIbMA_Ro7BT6FybIRJDLezDYlXrU2lsNbXmkckIPUgQynNPiBx0uHrJEpsMt_mhh-8pKK5m1sE_8/s1600/teacher-cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsuFk4_EA_MRHgohGVbfbInnHOT5jrKFEnSyjybXX92QADgya_D26uCkDgs6MCrhC_YIbMA_Ro7BT6FybIRJDLezDYlXrU2lsNbXmkckIPUgQynNPiBx0uHrJEpsMt_mhh-8pKK5m1sE_8/s1600/teacher-cake.jpg" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ask any teacher or school bus driver what they most appreciate as thoughtful gifts to honor their service and most will secretly admit to homemade cookies, cakes and other treats.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yes, it's true. Most teachers have a sweet tooth, and who can blame them? </span><br />
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On their feet for most of the day as they deal with kids, parents and school administrators, they probablly burn enough calories to make a construction worker blush.</span><br />
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So this Teacher's Day, why not whip up a batch of treats you can make yourself to honor teachers that really make a difference in your children's lives? It's a simple, thoughtful gesture that will give them a sweet memory of how much they are appreciated.</span><br />
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You can start right now by searching online for favorite recipes sure to please any teacher include their favorite ingredients. </span><br />
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Chocolate, for instance! </span><br />
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Simple <a href="http://www.cooks.com/rec/search/0,1-0,easy_chocolate_cookies,FF.html">chocolate chip cookies</a> are fun and easy to make, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and the kids can even join in to help. Find more easy chocolate treat recipes <a href="http://www.delish.com/recipes/cooking-recipes/best-chocolate-desserts">here</a>.</span><br />
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Instead of an apple, a delicious <a href="http://southernfood.about.com/od/applecakes/Apple_Cake_Recipes.htm">homemade apple cinnamon cake</a> will stay fresh for days and may be enjoyed as a quick breakfast treat over a hot cup of tea or coffee.</span><br />
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If you're handy with fondant or an icing tube, make a sheet cake and decorate in a Teacher's Day theme, (ABC's, math symbols, etc) or get really crafty and sculpt the cake in the shape of an apple, a teapot, an open book, or a school bus - and decorate accordingly.</span><br />
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Other ideas are only limited to your imagination. Don't forget to add a special Teacher's Day card with your gift with a special note inside reading: "...You take the cake!"</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>More ideas for Teacher Appreciation Day treats around the Web:</b></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.coolest-birthday-cakes.com/teacher-appreciation-cake.html">Coolest Homemade Teacher Appreciation Cake Ideas and Photos</a><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.myrecipes.com/holidays/videos/teacher-treats-10000001947126/">MyRecipes.com - Teacher Treats</a><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.livinglocurto.com/2011/04/teacher-gift-cupcakes-recipe/">Ice Cream Cupcakes Recipe & Free Printable Tags for Teachers Day</a></span><br />
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</div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-71951298286481544722011-02-03T18:04:00.007-05:002011-02-03T18:35:08.436-05:00Easy Super Bowl Party Foods & Recipes<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir8trB7BSJ0BAc0jBEM2f2kvlq4D1VogMYMSVHw0byDNOVWNh2B9NET-8bHbyptaEuN5snztv07XhdTcEB9Kifu7_XsGXPXRfown4EyTSkr7_C2_ihe6pJaBLO9h8oaFvuZ5yrkaGTa1up/s1600/super-bowl-party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir8trB7BSJ0BAc0jBEM2f2kvlq4D1VogMYMSVHw0byDNOVWNh2B9NET-8bHbyptaEuN5snztv07XhdTcEB9Kifu7_XsGXPXRfown4EyTSkr7_C2_ihe6pJaBLO9h8oaFvuZ5yrkaGTa1up/s1600/super-bowl-party.jpg" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's that time of year again, when football fans get together for the biggest blowout of the year while comfortably ensconced on the couch watching the big game on Super Bowl Sunday.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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If you're new to football theme parties, take a tip from others who are into entertaining at NFL football games throughtout the year.<br />
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That is - think fast and convenient foods and recipes to make it easy on you, and allow your party guests to nosh as they enjoy the game.</span><br />
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<i> As the clock ticks down to the kick-off, it's time to get your game on with these super easy Super Bowl party tips:</i></span><br />
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Remember that Super Bowl Sunday traditionally starts around 6PM on the East Coast (5Pm Central, 4PM Mountain and 3PM Pacific) so timing is all important when you're planning to send out your Super Bowl party invitations. </span><br />
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If you may want to invite friends over early to watch the pregame show warmup, make sure you plan on greeting them at the door with plenty of finger food already on hand. Chips, dip, celery and carrot sticks, olives, <a href="http://www.chiff.com/recipe/pages/10063.htm">deviled eggs</a> (the kids will them, too), and cheese or nacho platters will all be devoured by game time, guaranteed.</span><br />
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For a quick hot dish, remember that the ever-popular <a href="http://www.chiff.com/cooking/meats/buffalo-chicken-wings.htm">buffalo chicken wings</a> broil up fast. Make it easy by having the celery sticks and bleu cheese dip ready the night before for an instant snack that will also really score lots of points with guests.</span><br />
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For the kids, you can't beat chicken nuggets along with their favorite dip. Sodas or sports drinks, together with hot chocolate and marshmallows will fit right in with your football theme. </span><br />
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And, for the adults what's a Super Bowl game without the beer?</span><br />
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When it's time for the half time show, get ready to seriously chow down with pans of baked ziti, lasagna and other <a href="http://www.chiff.com/cooking/make-ahead.htm">make ahead meals</a> you can freeze and latter warm up on the afternoon of the big game.</span><br />
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Later, don't forget to leave room for dessert. Again, these should be easy to make and to eat, so consider serving up cookies, <a href="http://www.chiff.com/cooking/cupcakes.htm">homemade cupcakes</a>, heaping bowls of ice cream, or try whipping up a quick strawberry shortcake - made from sliced store-bought pound cake smothered in strawberries and cream. </span><br />
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Finally, whether they're favorite team wins or loses, send your guests home happy with a goody bag filled with foam #1 hands, a football player bobble head figure, protein health bars, beef jerky, team stickers, or other small football-themed giveaways.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Have fun!</span><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">More about Super Bowl party ideas and recipes around the Web:</span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.cooksrecipes.com/holiday-recipes/super-bowl-party-recipes.html">Super Bowl Party Recipes</a></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.partyideas-hq.com/super-bowl/fun-super-bowl-games-and-activities.html">Super Bowl Party Game Ideas</a></span><br />
<a href="http://www.amazingmoms.com/htm/party_superbowl_for_kids.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Super Bowl Party Ideas for Kids and Families</span></a><br />
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</div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-29109750263119212342010-12-02T11:56:00.001-05:002010-12-02T11:57:40.894-05:00School Class Birthday Party Etiquette<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBcvJegLD1gy2zOXuE0FhECwo9s8MnP_kFhy9-GCqEpwVmosEHctn2giUoOhDBNIxF3kPUUQKUWgp7AfNrLl8LoUNPEuGHAgFa9gR_M3c-dBtwo1r-voHr_uEsNV9NrX3AGyCL7sxj9kcS/s1600/b-day-cupcakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBcvJegLD1gy2zOXuE0FhECwo9s8MnP_kFhy9-GCqEpwVmosEHctn2giUoOhDBNIxF3kPUUQKUWgp7AfNrLl8LoUNPEuGHAgFa9gR_M3c-dBtwo1r-voHr_uEsNV9NrX3AGyCL7sxj9kcS/s1600/b-day-cupcakes.jpg" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There's no better way for kids to bond with their classmates or make new friends than including their school buddies to help celebrate your child's birthday. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Before you go start party planning, however, check out these rules of etiquette on the proper way to handle invitations, party food, and other things to consider for a 'no tears' birthday party for your school age child:</span><br />
<ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Don't give out invitations in the classroom unless inviting the whole class. Be discreet when giving the invitations to the parents you meet after school or, better yet, mail the invitations to each child's home.</span></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Above all, avoid any ostentacious displays. For example, one mother we know recently distributed balloons outside school with the party invitation enclosed inside. Those children NOT invited kept asking their moms - "Hey, where's my balloon?" </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Needless to say, the "balloon stunt" was not very popular with other moms. If in doubt, give a thought to how your child would feel if they were excluded from a party and act accordingly.</span></div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While baking cupcakes to distribute in class for your child's birthday is a popular custom, be sure to take into consideration dietary restrictions. Some children are allergic to wheat or nuts, or are restricted from eating sugary snacks. Ask your child's teacher for guidance and, if it's OK, try to include appropriate treats for those on restricted diets.</span></li>
</ul><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pick a number of guests and stick to it. You'll find that kids want to add and substract on the whim of the moment. Do ask for the child's input, but remember that your the adult party planner who has the final say.</span></li>
</ul><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Finally, keep control of the invitation list, and don't let it get out of hand. A good rule of thumb is to invite as many children as they age of your child - plus one.</span></li>
</ul><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Have fun!</span><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">More about school classroom birthday party etiquette around the Web:</span></b><br />
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<a href="http://www.ehow.com/facts_7180652_kid-etiquette-sending-invitations-school.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Kid Party Etiquette on Sending Invitations to School</span></a><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<a href="http://family.go.com/parenting/pkg-school-age/article-808999-birthday-party-etiquette-for-your-school-age-child-t/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Birthday Party Etiquette for Your School Age Child</span></a><br />
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</div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-67510502836340467282010-04-17T13:47:00.005-04:002010-04-17T13:55:09.157-04:00How to Hire A Limousine Without Being Taken for a Ride...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div>It's spring as party season is kicking into high gear.</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGAd34GPxYEuR53OIqmv_CXIiVLb33mUQ2GcrmqSASGSRAO1jZR0XxkhO-60mkWQqr4VACw_skfUTvDzROhtVzAoCt7VNwt0TEiwg5VgT23vXkSqp2EUJ5dFkYwrDI-EcbwdSvWXhIB4IZ/s1600/limo.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 186px; height: 77px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGAd34GPxYEuR53OIqmv_CXIiVLb33mUQ2GcrmqSASGSRAO1jZR0XxkhO-60mkWQqr4VACw_skfUTvDzROhtVzAoCt7VNwt0TEiwg5VgT23vXkSqp2EUJ5dFkYwrDI-EcbwdSvWXhIB4IZ/s400/limo.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461165102113598578" /></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Meanwhile, limousine services' phones are ringing off the hook with calls from prom dates and bridal parties looking for sleek looking wheels to get them to the dance hall or church in style, and on time. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Whether you're hiring a limo for a prom, wedding, a bachelor party or bachelorette party, before you make a final decision take a tip from the experts on how best to hire a limo without getting taken for a ride:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Like all great party planning, don't leave the details to the last minute. Take your time and shop around for the best limo at the best price your can afford. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Word to the wise: When it comes to limo hire, cheapest is usually not the best. Would you entrust cheap, fly-by-night operation to move your precious belongings? The same rule applies to limousine companies and their performance as they safely whisk you and your prom or bridal party from point A to B.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">First, check the <a href="http://www.bbb.org/us/find-a-bbb/">Better Business Bureau</a> for any complaints against your prospective limo company like no-shows, dirty interiors, or rude drivers. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">If you have the time, make a personal visit to the company garage to kick the tires and inspect the cars they have in their lineup. Do they actually have that stretch Hummer limo they advertise? What about the amenities they feature such as a bar, TV, moon roof or any other features you would like included?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Next, ask for references directly from the company representative so that you can call or e-mail other customers about their experiences. Was the driver on time? Did they drive safely? Were they polite & courteous? And, finally, did they know where they were going or did they need detailed directions?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">While most reputable professional limousine services will want a detailed itinerary from you anyway, don't sit back and get comfortable just yet. There have been nightmare scenarios reported about drivers not really knowing the best route to a party or wedding - leading to panic, anger and disgruntled guests - before the party ever started. So always have the directions written down, just in case. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Finally, READ THE CONTRACT before you sign it to avoid any unpleasant surprises later, or pay extra for costs already included (like the tip, for example.) If a tip is NOT included, the rule of thumb is to give your driver 15% to 20% of the total fare. Of course, that figure can be adjusted depending upon your experiences with the driver and the company. Hopefully, and with a bit of planning, it will be a happy one. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Have fun!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">More about hiring limos around the Web:</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.bridaltips.com/limo.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">How to Choose a Limousine Service for Your Wedding</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://prom.about.com/od/planningyournight/ht/rentalimo.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">How To Rent a Limousine: Arriving in Style in a Limo</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://ezinearticles.com/?What-Should-You-Tip-a-Limo-Driver?&id=2175735"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">What Should I Tip a Limo Driver?</span></span></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></span></div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-52159443255374504652010-04-15T11:31:00.006-04:002010-06-03T22:54:11.735-04:00Mother's Day Party Ideas<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFyrct4K2J4ywRbpFyj4VRlANX3o7qNCVHTiDAbylLYqu7Y6lB2KSLRdr0fSVsrY9iCngWPiZ6V2KJVKPERaqbajjSs9Q1RTMkptXqOjP0ITU9z25cZnccEr3joTizdvFRzW4BhNzjgwaO/s1600/mothersday.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 147px; height: 142px; vspace: 15" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFyrct4K2J4ywRbpFyj4VRlANX3o7qNCVHTiDAbylLYqu7Y6lB2KSLRdr0fSVsrY9iCngWPiZ6V2KJVKPERaqbajjSs9Q1RTMkptXqOjP0ITU9z25cZnccEr3joTizdvFRzW4BhNzjgwaO/s400/mothersday.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460392732111864642" /></a><br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:arial;">One of the most warmhearted spring celebrations, every May in the US (or March in the UK) a special day is set aside to remember a mother's love and support that is often there for the asking throughout our entire lives.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">To help remember mom on her special day, here are some great tips on hosting a celebration with family or friends that will honor mom in first-class style while still going easy on your budget:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Going Out for Mother's Day</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">While home celebrations In early May, start scouting out local restaurants that feature special Mother's Day brunch or dinner menus. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Often, a package deal is offered at an all-inclusive price that includes a cocktail, appetizer, and the main meal complete with dessert and coffee, so you can more easily keep track of costs. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">With the money you've saved, ask if you can have a special cake (together with a rousing chorus of "Happy Mother's Day to you!...) or maybe a bottle of champagne brought to the table to toast the special guest of honor.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Getting "Fresh" with Mom on Mother's Day</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">On the other hand, hosting a party at home may be more intimate and heartfelt - and far less expensive, especially when everyone pitches in.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">For Mother's Day brunch or garden party, be sure to decorate with lots of </span></span><a href="http://chiffpartyideas.blogspot.com/2009/05/how-to-buy-mothers-day-flowers.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">mom's favorite flowers</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Include on the menu: fresh fruit and fresh-squeezed juices, (if you're extra crafty, also try your hand at carving an </span></span><a href="http://www.chiff.com/a/watermelon-basket-2.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">edible watermelon basket</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">); serve a platter of homemade </span></span><a href="http://www.chiff.com/recipe/pages/10063.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">deviled eggs</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> and <span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">cold cuts; and don't forget the batch of fresh </span></span><a href="http://www.chiff.com/recipe/pages/10033.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">homemade biscuits</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">.</span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">For a more formal sit-down dinner, family-style one-pan meals of lasgna or </span></span><a href="http://www.chiff.com/recipe/pages/10460.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">baked ziti</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> are both <span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">easy on your time and budget. Served with a salad and plenty of crusty bread - and dinner is served! Of course, special touches like fancy </span></span><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/Come-Party-Me-Mothers-Day---Drinks-247617"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Mother's Day drinks</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">, and </span></span><a href="http://www.cooksrecipes.com/holiday-recipes/mother's_day_dessert_recipes_1.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Mother's Day desserts</span></span></a></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">make it that much more memorable.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Just remember - whether it's in a neighborhood restaurant, a formal sit-down or a more casual buffet at home on Mother's Day - make sure mom gets served first!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">More about Mother's Day parties and menu ideas around the Web:</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipesmenus/holidays/mothersday/recipes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Mother's Day Recipes and Menus at Epicurious</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/739559/how_to_decorate_a_mothers_day_party.html?cat=30"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">How to Decorate a Mother's Day Party Inexpensively, but Beautifully</span></span></a></div><div><br /></div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-14397765688788479132010-02-19T23:56:00.004-05:002010-02-20T00:09:29.042-05:00St. Patrick's Day Party Ideas<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgba532Yn0knkK_Qmj2phyphenhyphenmu9YBscLFFuY9m6odQ_UflMOsjh5tH0nZ0pXs5sp0FdHcVvPZlCUeSt2GO9orTLfZsYPwgvNP3D3YJ7vSwVuNAPhY65HBMcpKm1l9tBJ-HzejOGOBovz4v13B/s1600-h/irish.gif"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 81px; height: 82px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgba532Yn0knkK_Qmj2phyphenhyphenmu9YBscLFFuY9m6odQ_UflMOsjh5tH0nZ0pXs5sp0FdHcVvPZlCUeSt2GO9orTLfZsYPwgvNP3D3YJ7vSwVuNAPhY65HBMcpKm1l9tBJ-HzejOGOBovz4v13B/s400/irish.gif" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440186887178530562" /></a><br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:arial;">Whoop it up this St. Patrick's Day with fun ideas for party-goers of all ages who want to celebrate their Irish heritage or who just want to be Irish for a day! Below, find the fixin's for favorite party foods, drinks, decorating, games and activities, with related St. Paddy's Day party resources from around the Web ....</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Irish Food & Fixin's</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Boil up the traditional </span></span><a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Corned-Beef-and-Cabbage-I/Detail.aspx"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">corned beef and cabbage</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> with sides of potatoes, carrots (and lots of butter) or head off the main road to serve an old-fashioned </span></span><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/tylers-ultimate/irish-stew-recipe/index.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Irish Lamb Stew</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">, or </span></span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colcannon"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Colcannon</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> (in the UK it's called "bubble and squeak'). If you're really feeling your oats, how about a traditional </span></span><a href="http://recipes.kaboose.com/traditional-shepherds-pie.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Shepherd's Pie</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> made with chunks of lamb and vegetables? </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Goin' Green</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">A splash o' green on party streamers, tableclothes and tableware will get guests in the mood for some serious St. Patrick's Day partyin'! Have plenty of green food dye to color the beer and other </span></span><a href="http://www.bethanyroberts.com/st-patricks-day-drinks.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">St. Patrick's Day party drinks</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> (and don't forget a mug of </span></span><a href="http://www.ineedcoffee.com/00/irish/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Irish coffee</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> for dessert!)</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">And what would St. Patrick's Day be without an authentic recipe for <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Amazingly-Easy-Irish-Soda-Bread/Detail.aspx">Irish soda bread</a>?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">St. Patrick's Day Songs, Games and Activities</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Get them rolling in the aisles with an Irish Jig Dance Off with prizes for the best, most creative or funniest interpretation set to traditional Irish music on the CD player. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">A round of </span></span><a href="http://www.irishtrivia.com/general.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Irish trivia</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> is always fun, or get your guests moving at a St. Patrick's Day scavenger hunt with Irish-themed items hidden about the house. Of course, for a real authentic party atmosphere, decorate a part of the house to look like an Irish pub and let the darts game tournament begin! </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Meanwhile, you can keep the little ones busy with </span></span><a href="http://familyfun.go.com/st-patricks-day/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">downloadable St. Patrick's Day coloring pages, puzzles and craft activities</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">. Just for laughs, also get the adults involved in constructing a </span></span><a href="http://www.chiff.com/a/leprechaun.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Leprechaun trap</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> that's easily made with a cardboard box and an old shoe! </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Send guests home extra happy with party goodie bags filled with a combination of treats to take with them including shamrock plants, gold foil-wrapped chocolate coins, green mint candies, shamrock stickers, or "Kiss Me I'm Irish" pins.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Have a Happy St. Patrick's Day!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">More about St. Patrick's Day party ideas around the Web:</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.celebrations.com/stpatricksday"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">St. Patrick's Day Party Ideas</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.evite.com/app/cms/ideas/st-patricks-day"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">St. Patrick's Day Party Ideas from Evite</span></span></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-18648889810130706852010-01-12T22:07:00.003-05:002010-01-12T22:14:49.198-05:00Valentine's Day Party Ideas<div><br /></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbq8KQ2nX8QdzEb1IME7weey4PvS8EmwgKx-a9pnWv27edxv6XDO2hVbeSCthfuQcogjH7E1mgEDaFBHoC1kHOUSWmuvYOUMzVhoqoZ09IThnju3qia4LVYnQOqv95-6Nw5Mo9kQnaffB0/s400/valentine-party.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 115px; height: 113px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426057065289158642" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Are you planning an intimate romantic dinner for two? Or an all-out Valentine's Day party for friends and family? </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Either way, you can use these tips and ideas for a memorable Valentine's Day celebrations that are both fun and romantic: </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">If you're planning a special Valentine's night dinner for your special honey, all the decorations you'll probably need are vases of red roses and a few votive candles to set the mood. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">For a larger crowd, break out the red hearts and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">balloons</span>. And no Valentine's Day party would be complete without a cute, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">mischievous</span> Cupid included in a party table centerpiece.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">For a romantic dinner menu, be sure to include traditional </span></span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aphrodisiac"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">aphrodisiacs</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> including clam or oyster appetizers, asparagus, artichokes, arugula or avocado salad, or ANY dish made with truffles!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Plan on serving Wine or champagne for an extra festive Valentine's Day. Kick off your grand night of celebrating by having the bar stocked with ingredients to make classic romantic cocktails such as a </span></span><a href="http://www.chiff.com/recipe/pages/10156.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Kir</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Royale</span></span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">, </span></span><a href="http://www.chiff.com/recipe/pages/10185.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">The Red Kiss</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> or </span></span><a href="http://www.chiff.com/recipe/pages/10166.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Death by Chocolate</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Set the mood by loading up the CD with </span></span><a href="http://www.chiff.com/how-to/?p=101"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">romantic</span> songs just right for Valentine's Day</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> or browse romantic music compilations to download online.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">For a big, festive red-and-white themed dinner for friends and family go with what else? - Italian - featuring savory spaghetti marinara dishes, or elegant shrimp scampi. For a larger group, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">nothing's</span> easier than a big heaping pan of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">lasgna</span> or baked <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">ziti</span>.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Looking for Valentine’s Day dessert ideas? For a red-and-white theme, </span></span><a href="http://www.joyofbaking.com/RedVelvetCake.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">red velvet cake</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> is a sensuous and eye-popping favorite. If in doubt, think </span></span><a href="http://www.chiff.com/cooking/chocolate.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">chocolate</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">: as in chocolate-covered strawberries, chocolate cake, chocolate fondue and chocolate heart-shaped cookies.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Party favors? Send guests home happy with small, inexpensive sample boxes of Godiva chocolate (fancily tied with a red ribbon) always make for a perfect Valentines Day favor. Also </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">consider making a custom mix of red hots, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">chocolate</span> kisses. and "Be Mine" candies wrapped in red <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">cellophane</span> for guests to take home as a sweet memory of your Valentines Day bash.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">More about Valentine's Day party ideas, menus & recipes around the Web:</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.delish.com/entertaining-ideas/party-ideas/valentines-day-romantic-recipes-tips"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Valentine's Day Headquarters for Romantic Recipes</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.celebrations.com/valentines-day"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Valentine's Day Party Ideas</span></span></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-63810288375998142102009-11-30T12:59:00.010-05:002009-11-30T13:40:39.245-05:00New Year's Eve Family Night Activities<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br />Although New Year's Eve is most often reserved for adult partying, the night can also be filled with fun and entertainment for the whole family fun at home with just a little planning.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Keep food easy and appealing for everyone, i.e., chips and dip, a veggie platter, chicken fingers, deviled eggs, shrimp cocktail, or simply order in a pizza! Also have plenty of champagne ready for the adults, and fixings for 'mocktails" for the kids such as Virgin Pina Coladas or Shirley Temples.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">In addition, follow these tips and suggestions for a New Year's Eve party game & activity ideas that will have family and younger guests cozying up to loved ones and family friends as they welcome in the New Year ....</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">New Year's Eve Predictions</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibz0r-UDT-5zPNdM2IqiUEPzTFMsd9_Fa1x5Ts1QlpXf3WArSRW9aube6Cjze58MXBZZ1ukPyrwV-2Qvz1nOOTgD1SW-Wjo2sZq5m0zMYm_8QKWAKO-uYrGmZA-7pXTOvpciPACQtDO7eB/s400/new-year-8ball.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 91px; height: 74px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5409958969596632450" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">For older teens and adults familiar with how to play, break out the Ouija board or tarot cards for a spooky night of fortune telling.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Introduce the younger kids to "Magic 8 Ball" and stand back for the giggle-producing results as the classic novelty toy mysteriously answers their questions about the future.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">New Year's Eve Scavenger Hunt</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Scavenger hunts are a great ice breaker, and usually result in lots of laughs - as holiday revelers compete to find items hidden throughout the house, in the backyard, or around the entire neighborhood. (Tip: alert the neighbors so they don’t think there are intruders in their backyard!)</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD4zZa0napwm_7huyp2KZaKHIYNOu79el0NLqyM7G2F-yc4Kzazsim7U03VLjIpl5MyiUDsfNlh4rt_A2Bv8B3SP5X02aBf75k-Y3o4mgi1kS76yn_paPzrmTOpgjLzC6sZNMEgTrihJ_V/s400/new-year-scavenger.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 91px; height: 93px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5409959072810217986" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Depending on how well you’ve hidden your ‘treasure”, items in a New Year's scavenger hunt can be awarded separate points for ease, or difficulty. The party contestants who amass the most points are named the winners, so be sure to have prizes ready for the highest scorers. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Suggestions for items to hide for a New Year scavenger hunt might include: a party hat, streamers, noise makers, plastic champagne glass, a clock, Happy New Year card, Happy New Year balloon, drink stirrers, coasters, chocolate coins, a calendar, or silver bells to ring in the New Year.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">New Year's Eve Pinanta</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Who doesn't love a pinata? No reason not to have one on New Year's Eve for a fun kid competition. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMX26mx1r8gHjiVPizKOShhUXF6SVZ1IHsPf8TjaF_mwycYQc0lT3Msz9Z2VmqSo6o1GGPqwRTCrZJGimoarcPvqZIBuB_uwft7aUdgkoV7chyphenhyphenhUciQIFHWDjrziddUB3_YVv2IzL2ISCA/s400/new-year-pinata.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 82px; height: 118px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5409959428767373282" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Make your own homemade pinata using 1. a large shopping bag, 2. New Year's Eve clip art 3. paper glue 4. stapler.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Instructions: download and print out a picture of a New Year's Eve party hat, Father Time, or other holiday clip art and glue it to the shopping bag. Further decorate as you please with tinsel or glitter. Fill your decorated shopping bag with candy and staple the bag closed. String up from the ceiling using heavy cord. Provide a pinata stick or plastic baseball bat, line up the contestants - and stand back!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Happy New Year!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">More about New Year's Eve family night games & activities around the Web:</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><a href="http://familyfun.go.com/parties/new-years-fun-and-games-705220/">New Year's Fun and Games - Family Fun</a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipes/drinks/mocktails/top.aspx"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Best Mocktails Recipes</span></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://partysupplieshut.com/new-years-eve/new-years-eve-party-games.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Printable New Year's Eve Party Games</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://holidays.kaboose.com/newyear-color.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">New Year Coloring Pages</span></span></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-63319365521092043152009-11-19T00:19:00.008-05:002009-11-19T00:37:14.747-05:00Christmas Family Night Games & Activities<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Yep, everybody's a kid at Christmas. And why not? It's the time of year for shaking off day-to-day cares and letting down your guard, especially when you're partying with family! Just don't make the mistake of thinking a holiday get-together can be pulled-off without a little planning. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Just up ahead, have a warm and joyous holiday get-together with our pick of top games and activities that will get the kids and teens giggling, and the adults joining in with happy abandon:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Christmas Trivia</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1or16z55JFJkyvO_P2O4dAktLTUDBg-n3TfDX9xlqDIimMwu5ukNF_i1caRRl0kpuHtmxZEakNUh25diKMhM2JvVY4ckMrtz_KKn4hhqEbQiJQlZgntb-LGcMjCGpdi8RrD2iWdnVQ3vg/s400/christmas-blog1.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 64px; height: 68px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405681503351018258" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Create your own Holiday Trivial Pursuit game by typing up a list of questions to pose to guests on party night. To get you started, here are some of our favorites: </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">1. What are the names of all eight reindeer which appear in Clement Moore’s poem “The Night Before Christmas”?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">2. In “A Charlie Brown Christmas” what did Lucy want for Christmas?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">3. Who yelled “Stop!” at Frosty?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Answers: 1. Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donder, and Blitzen. 2. Real estate. 3. The traffic cop.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Christmas Movie Trivia</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh57_iGvlBAc5VQBRMdhYWj3ckaGvYQHTkyxHFFQn75fX54NaOHb7K9s81y5GO3kiO_YvEQemF8lnmS901nFgjtVNGLATgJpPeFLxHJTfGG4FhI5KaxXeDGTT3fYvxtncETvm8wSPQQQ9oo/s400/christmas-blog2.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 89px; height: 113px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405681675694918626" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Everyone loves Christmas movies. Test party-goers knowledge by reciting famous lines from popular favorites to see who can come up with the most correct responses. Here are a few to get you started:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">1. What is the location of “It’s a Wonderful Life?”</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">2. In “The Nightmare Before Christmas”, who provides the voice for Sally?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">3. What actress plays Bill Murray's love interest in “Scrooged’?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Answers: 1. Bedford Falls 2. Catherine O’Hara 3. Karen Allen</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Name That Holiday Tune!</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw-uvKsTVEw5tNeclTkIDJsY1ctDwfndYjKtcCYPCH30SVhFjxelKgJjLo8moy2b0WSrTCwaJ8_6bxr5jRUhodN6L5wX52MUMJhR8KnfNwDtm4C8xdOxmJQvLI6EP__IJeKrux0UIn1bAz/s400/christmas-blog3.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 87px; height: 91px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405681850222768482" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Grab the CD player and your favorite holiday music CD. Let contestants guess the title of each song after hearing only a few bars, and award a prize to the player with the most correct answers. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Another way to play: simply type up the most obscure lyrics from Christmas songs or carols and read (or sing!) them aloud. For example: "There'll be scary ghost stories and tales of the glories..." (It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year) or how about "…bells are ringing, children singing…" (Here Comes Santa Claus). It's not as easy as you might think but, anyway, you <span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">get the idea. Check out this site for more </span></span><a href="http://www.mikeleal.com/christmas/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Christmas song and carol lyrics</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">.</span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Christmas Pinata</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzJOyvgs7ngTU52zEe-7kOS-_on5o_ezahzqpdHyJw5-tirWojpr5QolCXwxzjdgQVMRiaQU28gNfoRSpBJVxAhjVPXUY0hmmXCzjM8VGr7sq1rP0G1KuyOWgZE-cdtHFRsBicDWCgMvYW/s400/christmas-blog4.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 97px; height: 120px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405682031863214514" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">With a little bit of creativity, you can easily make a homemade Christmas pinata using 1. a large shopping bag, 2. a picture of a holiday scene 3. paper glue 4. stapler.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Download and print out a picture of Santa or holiday scene and glue it to the shopping bag. Further decorate as you please with tinsel or garland. Fill your decorated shopping bag with Christmas candy and staple closed. String up from the ceiling using heavy cord. Provide a pinata stick or plastic baseball bat, line up the contestants - and stand back! This one can be fun even for the adults, just make sure you don't serve TOO MUCH eggnog beforehand. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Christmas Bingo</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Fun for all ages, game players must first understand the </span></span><a href="http://party.lovetoknow.com/Christmas_Party_Bingo_Game"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">general rules of bingo and how to play</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">. <span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Simply subsitute the traditional numbered cards with a variety of Christmas symbols, words or pictures. Download and print a variety of Christmas bingo playing cards for free </span></span><a href="http://www.coolest-holiday-parties.com/winter-bingo.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">here</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">.</span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">More about Christmas family night games & activities around the Web:</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.partygameideas.com/christmas-games/games-list.php"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Christmas Games</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_4665505_night-before-christmas-party-game.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">How to Play 'The Night Before Christmas' Party Game</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.worldofchristmas.net/christmas-celebrations/scavenger-hunt-list.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Christmas Scavenger Hunt Ideas</span></span></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-56642296876704361512009-09-24T20:57:00.010-04:002009-09-24T21:18:23.743-04:00Gross Halloween Food Ideas & Recipes<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Sure, everybody likes gross-out food at Halloween, but what are the easiest recipes to follow for homemade yucky food ideas guaranteed to make your guests giggle and (hopefully), gag?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Here are some quick instructions and ingredients for making truly disgusting snacks and spooktacular party treats that will make any Halloween party a hoot:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Mummy pizza</span></span></b></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3-gTWZHUl2ZoPA55AGii0AsThjADeGxuAygTQnKi99Evrh9gvt97eJ00-UQ4If5JR7Kxgy61WzLB6uVkhltLCYy206M8nI15zqD_1HcTIzOEpKR1cUmeH63i8mUzExsNmGHpOAqK7iIYe/s400/halloween3.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 69px; height: 61px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385204145682327538" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Follow any simple recipe for English muffin pizza, but instead of just sprinkling mozzarella cheese over the top, use strips to make a "mummy wrap" topping. Use slices of black olives and bits of pepper for the eyeballs.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Wormy pudding</span></span></b></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFHVnJBVB6KryUJhkfbRXLSHmgiAqt5fH5xXAfZ7dhaHO2FNQ3QdGshrpJcBk3K0MWaaP7d73UlfAM2S-8dtngO2koEaKFyz8su3bJc9W1FV_4ZQDwLeoB3btZ7ykbw7u5iHnP1Ege73hi/s400/halloween1.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 67px; height: 65px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385204652826316114" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Grab a bunch of gummy worms and hide them inside chocolate pudding cups (homemade or store bought). For an added touch, stick more gummy worms on top to make it look like "the worms crawl in, the worms crawl out..."</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Witches' fingers</span></span></b></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR3LJofLxgEnGV5MHXJX5A99lG7Dq7F40mjVkVYrZrqI6EPdpMzLeYptfFnC0pLhNxltm2_XYYERsj49cds3GacEWgZh5MGSi5dpuEs8nM-BW-PGApa5VV4qsuSbEu1PuUWQQIFnXCGg5Y/s400/halloween2.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 89px; height: 75px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385205009512410050" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Buy plain premade cookie dough. Roll small pieces of dough out in to a ball and then in to a log shape. Making regular notches to resemble knuckles. Make an indentation at one end and fill with raspberry jam. Top with a slivered almond piece for the fingernail. Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Skeleton bone cookies</span></span></b></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiphuHlNseAoDoe0j2OvVDNENnMFIcbI6fGTazBN6aKKuKS7QPmJTxtMmPYjREw6fdDUtszgCEVX_sJjO_WqlbUkT-dAcsDFgWdjov-yPUTxkqw9KUgXcVsq4I6xy7aBD_NyeUHUyil8gDh/s400/halloween5.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 61px; height: 71px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385205326788708386" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Pinch off pieces premade cookie dough and roll into 8-inch ropes. Fold 1 inch of each end back to form a small ball and pinch ends to make bone shapes. Repeat to shape all the dough into skeleton bones. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Kitty litter cake</span></span></b></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiusZWC6Z3JdYjh_zHEVb44-NNtxwyRVmoVa1urSWxHIj2KrKIPRvQoQpK021mUBCPXc6JqQwXOswqJfQESODd-s_BMk3HUc6UxXHIvZUYDwUZLjCWkeu6Pr343CAlRBU4C-11or94pxhZb/s400/halloween4.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 90px; height: 76px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385205510466365410" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The grossest of gross Halloween recipes, all this requires is a vanilla cake mix, crumbled cookies, and some Tootsie Rolls. Make the cake, top with cookie crumbs and add softened Tootsie rolls to resemble cat poop. Heighten the illusion by serving in a new, clean kitty litter box. Serve with a clean pooper scooper. Yuck!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">More gross & disgusting Halloween food ideas around the Web:</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.mahalo.com/gross-halloween-party-food"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Gross Halloween Party Food</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/06299/732956-34.stm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The anatomy of disgusting (yet fun) Halloween food</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf801601.tip.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Gross, Yucky, Creepy Halloween Recipes</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-83806750888470062272009-09-16T12:40:00.005-04:002009-09-16T12:58:08.817-04:00Oktoberfest Party & Food Ideas<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR7WsqQie7ptyGSyxpy_UJENDe4J_YrAHC6Ob3iaqIs-yRDny1GDx24pz2QCX6foApvAIhAvhxO1ElhpqpF0DQNpNM_qptRwxIoVR_J24SC88lO2YicCcfLE5TY_rWPPZHDpAtvAcw9WqA/s400/oktoberfest-party.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 113px; height: 77px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382107478742950770" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Nothing says autumn fun like Oktoberfest! A centuries-old tradition begun in Munich, Germany, the seasonal festival is now beloved the world over and celebrated everywhere from Tokyo to Milwaukee.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Host your own Oktoberfest party with these step-by-step tips and instructions, and get ready for some fall fun, feasting .... and lots of beer:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">1. Willkommen friends over by printing your own invitations using </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><a href="http://www.mahalo.com/free-oktoberfest-clipart">German Oktberfest clipart</a> of beer kegs, beer steins, beer glasses, bratwurst or party goers in lederhosen.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">2. Decorate in the colors of the Bavarian flag, with lots of blue and white balloons. Also consider German travel posters, or printouts of Bavarian food and beer steins to hang on the door and walls. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">3. To make your venue look like a traditional German beer hall, line up tables in a long row - for a fun night of communal feasting and drinking. Use a beer stein or beer pitcher filled with fresh flowers, and surround with small German flags as an easy and decorative centerpiece.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">4. Search the Web for traditional </span></span><a href="http://www.germanculture.com.ua/library/links/food.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">German & Oktoberfest food and recipes</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> which are a tradition of any German party or Oktoberfest theme - such as weiner schnitzel, bratwurst, sauerkraut, gingerbread, apple strudel and black forest cake.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">5. And what would an Oktoberfest be without the beer? Just make sure it's German beer such as pilsner, wheat beer, stouts and lagers.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">6. Get everybody in the party mood by playing a German music or drinking song collection CD, or if your budget allows hire a local German band for a memorable live performance.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">7. Lastly, no Oktoberfest celebration would be complete without a traditional chicken dance to get everyone up and mingling. (It's even more fun after hoisting a few!)</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><object width="320" height="265"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/qAGF3KFdu6U&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/qAGF3KFdu6U&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="320" height="265"></embed></object><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Prost! – Cheers!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">More about Oktoberfest party & food ideas around the Web:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.celebrations.com/article/Oktoberfest"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Oktoberfest Party Ideas</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.foodtv.ca/content/entertaining/ContentDetail.aspx?ContentId=2160&Category=Entertaining"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Oktoberfest Party Foods & Recipes</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.toppartyideas.com/oktoberfest-party-ideas/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Oktoberfest Party Ideas and German Theme Party</span></span></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-23151662615892891622009-08-17T21:39:00.007-04:002009-08-29T12:34:30.203-04:00Cheap Kids Party Venue Ideas<div><br /></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ7yQhwpSYzkJBpblCtFTXkHTYiOMR8ZMwwO1efrKXlL7x1sDex17DeXuMX4PdeN_gNNOZ7w_6IO9J9eKRAF0yh0YN_VVFGyBxof4XPUe7u7T5hWvVC4xMIz72z6FKmgYIDY7tmuXBMdn8/s400/kids-party.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 151px; height: 99px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371112895221936818" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">How to throw a a cheap or affordable party away from home for your favorite birthday boy or girl? </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">It may take some work, but the money you save makes for a fun and memorable party that you may want to repeat year after year.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">First, start with a party location checklist to make sure your chosen venue can accommodate the kind of kids birthday party you have in mind:</span></span></div><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Budget</span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Number of guests</span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Food storage or cooking facilities</span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Indoor or outdoor (depending on time of year and liklihood of good weather)</span></span></li></ul></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Once you decide on the type of birthday party venue that works best, start thinking about local organizations that may fit your plans and budget.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">These may include neighborhood groups, clubs, or places of worship that may offer free or very affordable party space for neighborhood families. Also consider neighborhood playgrounds, community centers, the local YMCA, or even the local firehouse. Most of these venues are open to hosting kids birthday parties for a small deposit or donation. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><b>Helpful hint:</b> If you don't reserve a date and time WAY in advance everything will be fully booked. If so, there is always the local fast food joints like McDonalds. Most chains in suburban areas will offer the use of an indoor or outdoor playground for free, with the only major cost the purchase of a kid's meal for each child.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Meanwhile, if your child's birthday happens to fall during the summer months - lucky you! The warm weather season provides one of the cheapest outdoor venue ideas for hosting a great kids party at a nearby park or beach. Of course, the weather might interfere, so always have a "Plan B" ready in case of rain.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">For a great beach party, simply lay out a couple of beach blankets, unload the cooler, take out the sunblock, and party! Don't forget games and activites like sandcastle building or a fun seashell scavenger hunt. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Picnic areas in public parks also make for a fun summer barbecue party. Best of all, hosting a kids party on a weekday (especially in the morning hours) may guarantee that you'll have the whole place practically to yourself.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Finally, in what may be one of the biggest drawbacks to the DIY party venue (unlike party-and-go restaurants where you leave the mess), most free or affordable venues means the final cleanup falls to YOU. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">If that's the case, be sure to arrange a special activity that involves the kids and some small trash bags, called "The Cleanup Game". It was devised by one clever mom who routinely gives out a cool prize to the guest who fills up their trash bag the fastest!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">With a little ingenuity, finding a kids party venue location - from planning to final cleanup - can result in a fun and easy birthday celebration that doesn't break the bank.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">More about cheap kids party locations around the Web:</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_2146291_find-cheap-kids-party-venue.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">How to Find a Cheap Kids Party Venue</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.birthdaypartyideas4kids.com/awayfromhome.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">38 Away from Home Birthday Party Venue Ideas</span></span></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-22687610078750215332009-08-09T12:34:00.007-04:002010-08-08T12:12:23.020-04:00Elvis Birthday Party Ideas<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtdCRgzw5ZklLOIKBR0owVHYdbiYIZN_abGJSYHZy90lHCL3fkbVLF5ZLxFOCfHWqlqVhbplwCs0np7qHI6vN1KbwqbxdMBti9JzC8CNPALdVg5Gr06_Mrsr_JJc313Vp1JyTo1RvSA58E/s400/elvis.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 142px; height: 190px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368004504472104210" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Yes, the King still lives! His music and films continue to inspire </span></span><a href="http://www.wedthemes.com/elvis-wedding.shtml"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Elvis themed weddings</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> and Elvis birthday parties that are still going strong worldwide commemorating the rock n roll icon.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Celebrating Elvis is as easy as turning the ol' jukebox on (today, that's a CD or DVD player) and letting the good times roll. Decorate with Elvis posters, feature some popular 50's foods, add a party game or two - and you have all the makings for a hunka hunka popular party idea.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Set the mood by selecting a general Elvis theme, or center the party around one of his most popular movie hits like Viva Las Vegas or Blue Hawaii for a fun </span></span><a href="http://chiffpartyideas.blogspot.com/2009/05/party-hawaiian-food-menu-planning.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">luau party theme</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">To decorate, search online for affordable Elvis posters</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">, rummage around antique shops for old Elvis album covers and records, or simply print out images from the Internet. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And what would an Elvis party be without the party games? </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Since music is such an important part of any Elvis party, get the house rockin' with a round of Name That Tune or a hip-shaking Elvis karaoke contest. Prizes can also be given out for the best impersonation or dance moves during the performance. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">For the non-musical guests, try "Pin the Tail on the Hound Dog" or an </span></span><a href="http://www.elvispresleytrivia.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Elvis trivia</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> contest. Finally, buy a life-size Elvis cutout so that all guests can gather round for a picture with the King!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Food ideas "Fit for a King" can include fried chicken, 50's burgers and shakes, chicken "love me" tenders, or the famous </span></span><a href="http://www.recipesource.com/main-dishes/sandwiches/02/rec0236.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">fried peanut butter & banana sandwiches</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> that Elvis loved so well. And don't forget the </span></span><a href="http://www.coolest-birthday-cakes.com/guitar-cake.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">guitar shaped cake</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> for a sweet ending to your Elvis celebration.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Say "thank you, thank you very much" by sending guests home happy with a goody bag filled with Reeses Pieces, toy sunglasses, a CD of Elvis hits, and photos from the party for an Elvis party keepsake they'll long remember.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">More about Elvis party themes around the Web:</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.ehow.com/way_5230383_elvis-birthday-party-ideas.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Elvis Party Ideas</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazingmoms.com/htm/party_elvis-presley-party.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Elvis Party Ideas for Preteens</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><a href="http://www.elvispresleynews.com/">Elvis Fan Site</a></span></span></div><div><br /></div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-42062668386406889012009-08-03T00:27:00.004-04:002009-08-03T00:37:43.102-04:00Easy Tailgate Party Recipes<div><br /></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitPvN_RoopX_HzNJ7u2Qj7x7fToYyR9_Eukf7h5MiRFP81umkcBQgiZc9t464ccjsxrdC8FoSODtgGpkdsHKabZoSzEyOebMgoZJzBV7q5QSplxNxZeGMHSoFnKwQTUuiMaCTJ9NUNKQmR/s400/tailgate.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 145px; height: 94px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365590733336244498" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Whether it's a football game, a rock concert or a NASCAR race, time spent out in the parking lot at a tailgate party can often be the most memory-making event of the day! </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Getting together around the tailgate with good friends is a great way to bond or reconnect with other "weekend warriors", so sweating over a grill shouldn't be your biggest priority.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Veggies and dip (and lots of beer!) are the time-honored way to kick off a tailgate party, along with one-pot meals, or foods that can be quickly grilled so that cooks can be free to join in the fun, too. Chill out with these easy recipes for easy one-pot meals or otherwise filling finger-foods that are fun, flavorful, and sure to wow guests at your next tailgating party:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Easy quacamole</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">In a large bowl, add the juice of 1 lime and 3 Hass avocados. Mash up the avocados until slightly chunky and add 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 onion, chopped; 1 small plum tomato, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; and 1 tablespoon cilantro. Mix all ingredients until thoroughly blended. To store, cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Serve with tortilla chips. Serves 4.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Quick and easy chile</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons olive oil over medium high heat. Add 1 chopped onion, 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon salt; 1 tablespoon chili powder; and 1 teaspoon oregano. Stir until thoroughly heated, then add 1 pound ground beef and 1 tablespoon tomato paste, and cook until beef is slightly browned. Add 1 can kidney beans, and 1 can crushed peeled tomatoes (and their juice). Bring to a boil, then lower heat and cook for 10 minutes until thickened. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">To serve, ladle the chili into bowls and serve with guacamole, sour cream, grated Monterey jack cheese, and tortilla chips. Serves 4</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Easy shrimp kabobs</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">In a large bowl, make marinade by mixing together 1/2 cup teriaki sauce, 1 chopped scallion, 1 clove garlic, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon sugar. Add 16 large shrimp and toss to coat, reserving marinade. Place 1 pineapple chunk in the curve of each shrimp and place on skewer. Place on heated grill and cook for about 1 minute per side, brushing with marinade until done. Serves 4.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Easy beef stew</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">In a large skillet, cook 2 lbs stew meat over medium heat until browned. Add water to cover and bring to a boil. Immediately lower heat and add 4 large potatoes, cubed; 3 large carrots, sliced; and 1 large onion, coarsely chopped. Add salt, pepper and garlic powder to taste. Cover and let simmer for an hour or until meat is tender. Serve in bowls with rolls or crusty bread.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">More about tailgate party main dishes</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">While grilled burgers, steaks and chicken are always a favorite around the barbecue, finger foods are the way to go at a tailgate party. Along with the recipes listed above, also think about ribs, buffalo chicken wings, or hearty sandwiches. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Favorite tailgate party desserts</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">To satisfy everybody's sweet tooth, store bought cupcakes and cookies are the easiest bet for feeding a crowd, but for homemade desserts, brownies are always a mess-free, inexpensive alternative. If you have time, add a little excitement with any simple cookie recipe frosted in your favorite team colors.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">More about easy tailgating recipes around the Web:</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.ifood.tv/network/easy_desert_tailgate_party/recipes"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Easy Tailgate Party Recipes with Videos</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.ehow.com/topic_313_tailgating.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Tailgate Party Planning - eHow.com</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.helium.com/items/679705-food-ideas-for-the-ultimate-football-tailgate-party"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Top Ten Tailgate Party Foods</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.tailgatehaven.com/tailgate_recipes_category.cfm?CatID=Desserts"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Tailgate Haven - Tailgate Dessert Recipes</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><br /></div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-48057773552110116072009-07-25T17:43:00.004-04:002009-09-02T15:21:31.734-04:00Easy Labor Day Party Ideas<div><br /></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivWpXV17Pxs1qHHNumR5kC35eKAmU7rbzHhJrnz406shfo6oH7AqMc6yMAFyxD3wC7uOeid82t6rwQf0kINE8fD-dL6rh72ZVb4JwYeWYgt49jEmGSIzRcCgFBnpPKzbIexoOKJVvxD-qL/s400/labor-day.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 87px; height: 132px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362517889086686386" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Labor Day is a bittersweet holiday - a final goodbye to the summer and all the fun memories of vacation time and weekends at the beach. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Although your first idea may be a really big blowout for Labor Day, our best advice is... fight the feeling! Not for nothing do they call it Labor Day. So chill, kick back and relax, and honor a job well done with a quick and easy Labor day celebration - whether its a </span></span><a href="http://chiffpartyideas.blogspot.com/2009/05/party-hawaiian-food-menu-planning.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">luau</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">, a picnic in the park, or a </span></span><a href="http://chiffpartyideas.blogspot.com/2009/04/fun-pool-party-games-activites.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">pool party</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> in the back yard.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Cheap and easy decorating can be accomplished in a flash with American flags, red and white carnations, or red, white and blue balloons.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">On Labor Day, the last thing you want to do is spend any time in the kitchen whipping up a really complicated recipe. Gather round the barbecue and make it ribs and chicken. Add some store bought macaroni salad, potato salad and watermelon. Your Labor Day party will be a piece of cake. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And speaking of cake, that's where the real fun comes in, with these cool and easy recipes for a Labor Day party that's truly special, AND easy on the budget:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Easy Strawberry Shortcake</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Toast a piece of pound cake, cover with 1/2 cup berries or other fruit, then top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Beat 8 oz. cream cheese until smooth, then gradually beat in 1/3 cup of sugar. Blend in 1 cup sour cream, 1 cup whipped topping and 2 tsp. vanilla. Pour into prepared graham cracker pie crust and refrigerate for 4 hours until firm. Top with strawberries. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Labor Day Trifle</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">To begin, simply line the bottom of a dessert cup with store-bought lady fingers or thin slices of pound cake. Top with vanilla pudding, add a layer of berries, followed by another layer of cake. Add more pudding, top with whipped cream, and crown with an extra berry. (This is our personal favorite that always manages to wow an audience. Be sure to use a clear glass dessert glass or cup so you can see all the layers.)</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">For a patriotic Labor Day celebration, also check out </span></span><a href="http://chiffpartyideas.blogspot.com/2009/06/easy-4th-of-july-cake-decorating-ideas.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Easy 4th of July Cake Decorating Ideas</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> for decorating sheet cakes and bundt cakes in a red, white and blue theme.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">More about easy Labor Day party ideas around the Web:</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipes/Holidays-and-Events/Labor-Day/Desserts/Main.aspx"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Labor Day dessert ideas</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.rachaelraymag.com/easy-party-ideas/Great-Get-Togethers/holiday-party-menus/labor-day-party"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Rachel Ray Labor Day Party Ideas</span></span></a></div><div><br /></div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-70754902039748165592009-06-27T19:23:00.005-04:002013-08-18T21:51:58.064-04:00Kids Birthday Goodie Bag Ideas<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5352153716992014722" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcki0yXmlUnXWlsmIl3q8yKe1IHghXX4kyQGPl6QhKwNOkHItrBP_p5U5v0-UgTiWJGOxAIVSW7IruG_A1ayDiidMP_TBaok9sGXKUr9hNWrMyy3NVRQ7hq_LgqLwK19rPf75Lq-a6wnoc/s400/goody-bag.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 175px; margin: 0 0 10px 10px; width: 139px;" /><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">First, let it be known that there is no law that says you HAVE to give out favors or goodie bags at every party.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Although it's a fairly popular tradition at kids birthday parties, it's also increasingly falling out of disfavor with moms and dads who don't want their kids filling up on a bunch of sweet, gooey candy after every party they attend. </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">But if you still want thank party guests for coming, and not buck the trend, here are some ideas for keeping kids AND parents happy at your next kids party:</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Instead of candy, how about filling up your goodie bags with stickers, small toys & trinkets, colored pencils, sidewalk chalk, crayons, comic books, granola bars, snack juices, balloons, hand puppets, play doh, marbles ... and the list goes on with only a little thought and creativity.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Chances are good that at least half the parents will be eternally grateful for your thoughtfulness. The rest will probably be impartial or just grateful that you made their kids feel special.</span></span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Forget the bag, give a favor</span></span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Or, forget the goody bag altogether, and choose one simple gift as a special party favor "thank you" for coming.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Think coloring books, a colorful beach ball, flip flops, a small toy, kiddie umbrella, fannie pack, a kite, McDonald's or Baskin Robbins gift card, a group party picture in a frame, sunglasses, or bubbles. </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Shop around or check online crafts and party goods at Michaels, Oriental Trading, Target, The Dollar Store and Wal-Mart. You're bound to find something you can buy in bulk that won't break the bank.</span></span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Alternatives to goody bags:</span></span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">While we're at it, here are some more creative ideas if you want to give a goody bag that's not a bag:</span></span></div>
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Try paper or plastic cups (with lids) or how about toy piggy banks filled with chocolate coins or candy?<br /></span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Flower pots or straw baskets - filled with seed packets and flower stickers - are perfect for a "Flower Power" theme or garden party.<br /></span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">A beach pail with shovel and party theme stickers are great for a pool or beach party.<br /></span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Colored cellophane tied with a ribbon, or a cheap party hat filled with goodies are other alternatives to plain 'ol, same 'ol goody bags.</span></span></li>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">More about party favors and goody bag ideas around the Web:</span></span></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.mamasource.com/advice/goody-bag"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Mom Advice on Goody Bag Ideas</span></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.parents.com/fun/birthdays/party-planning/birthday-party-goody-bags/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Parents.com - Birthday Party Goody Bag Ideas</span></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.pepperspollywogs.com/blog/index.php/goody-bag-ideas-from-preschool-to-tweens/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Goody Bag Ideas from Preschool to Tweens</span></span></a></div>
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Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-62686070106462813152009-06-25T13:01:00.013-04:002009-07-03T16:04:49.509-04:00Easy 4th of July Cake Decorating Ideas<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNuQ3MR46i8kLuHSOyEtdUUKr9urmHOZpmmEyVUC9U1sMoWqDzYfsOGUSxoUvaMI_xpjpyvFY56Pom2vFMyJ7vyxSHt8yNZnsNCdbOlH4RPeWTs6pKrWTN5cbVqlHYbJtqgR2xqcPH7ahN/s1600-h/4th-july-cake5.jpg"></a><br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">While a backyard barbecue may be at the center of any festive 4th of July party, what's a celebration without dessert?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Check out these simple, fun and easy cake decorating ideas sure to wow family guests this 4th of July:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">1. 4th of July Flag Cake </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtHbNR4KUv5ly4f3-SKnF_63s6B_YYnFxRbGG2vfHHKxyraK33npZrdeyxcz2w_7RDX904VkjJA1DBjir6eGENKD0Zz6A5-WIpRZkM0A5awO7wbkOiMjKUC_31mTghbZq8H3vYkjIsixnO/s400/4th-july-cake3.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 118px; height: 89px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5351315325581509666" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Probably the easiest of all, this one calls for a sheet cake and vanilla frosting. Decorate with blueberries and strawberries to form the stars and stripes.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">2. Stars & Stripes Cupcakes</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGZSt8jSK9od0v_sq8SvraHy7WxI5bc6QfsCDR5x5oigf6dwRW62grBSD1JrDufivZZcBvG-iLGeSiguOEqxoF8Xg3EXXdVRORvMP5R-X8aylWS_HyXWgo736jHTh_uT75ZXlNqvz8z97T/s400/4th-july-cake4.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 116px; height: 64px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5351315503020176178" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Bake up a batch of your favorite cupcakes. Use vanilla icing and food coloring to frost with patriotic red, white and blue. Arrange on a tray in the shape of Old Glory.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /><object width="480" height="295"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/zI7ijvT-sBI&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/zI7ijvT-sBI&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="295"></embed></object><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">3. Uncle Sam's Hat Cake</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCrNJYNgXa6MfOtdeLs9q2nWULsplcfKKL6OPKepjE8EW8Vg2F8ZiSp_PsoAumJVQVeWajvozQ9ZEbICd_RYdB_SZSvzvJYtjourpBqcv4WkD7Bzvx6P2YIjpmJ7lPkHnTh_GyUfAEdJYC/s400/4th-july-cake1.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 108px; height: 125px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5351314410577845202" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">This also calls for colored icing to decorate Uncle Sam's hat, made with strategic cuts to a homemade sheet cake. If you like, frost with vanilla icing and substitute red and blue icing with strawberries (or raspberries) and bluberries.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">4. Star Cake</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4F53UhPbN0GwZ7o51wlGBk4DFuLp6uoCdEnQyMZQJatdYgI7jNt3uRxhH-N5DlSJEICNmqvP-TBKQ6lNa-l6FOFbgaLcTCAZAOVRTDxsxa9qHJc_Hfi70qBv1uq6U5UPgiTTNJsh0Lc2k/s400/4th-july-cake2.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 125px; height: 122px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5351314862276452994" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Make dessert shine with this star-shape cake frosted in red, white and blue. A sheet cake will do, or start with a layer cake with vanilla frosting in between the two layers.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">5. Red, White and Blue Bundt Cake</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNuQ3MR46i8kLuHSOyEtdUUKr9urmHOZpmmEyVUC9U1sMoWqDzYfsOGUSxoUvaMI_xpjpyvFY56Pom2vFMyJ7vyxSHt8yNZnsNCdbOlH4RPeWTs6pKrWTN5cbVqlHYbJtqgR2xqcPH7ahN/s400/4th-july-cake5.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5351315835896851618" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 112px; height: 100px; " /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Start out with your favorite bundt cake recipe and make a "fireworks" burst by dribbling basic frosted icing down the sides. Fill up the center with strawberries and blueberries.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">More about 4th of July cake decorating around the Web:</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.wilton.com/celebrations/4th-of-July/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">cake decorating ideas and more for the 4th of July</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/296596/easy_fourth_of_july_cheese_cake.html?cat=22"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Easy Fourth of July Cheesecake</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.coolest-birthday-cakes.com/4th-of-july-cakes.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Coolest Homemade 4th of July Cakes</span></span></a></div><div><br /></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Also see in the Chiff Party Blog:</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://chiffpartyideas.blogspot.com/2009/05/memorial-day-party-ideas.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Memorial Day Party Ideas</span></span></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-33309707136325017952009-06-06T13:54:00.005-04:002009-06-06T17:18:10.388-04:0080s Party Food Ideas<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwb7V7RoYySkUeoR4n07w6ynD9twA4ZLFPZAP5vmoOYSmuH1nU75Qoe_ydRYmuLRUkFBakbZmbFe-26c_x22TWdFT4Un1oNiwsDpmf0ixrC5g81IKWwvjTwgl53eb6yNX50_LdyEJdqfT5/s400/popcorn.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 101px; height: 80px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344281591876356562" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Sure, it's easy enough buying the 80s posters, or jammin' to Duran Duran and just letting the good times roll. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">But what food does a party purist serve at an 80's party?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Check out the following ideas and suggestions for an 80s party menu guaranteed to be not only authentic but, like, totally mondo:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">80s drinks</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> - Two words:<i> wine coolers</i>. A fashionable mix of wine, fruit juice and soda water, they were a huge hit with 20-somethings when they were first introduced in the 80s. And those who attended college during the 1980s will definitely remember <a href="http://www.chiff.com/entertain/jello-shots.htm">jello shots</a>. Seriously trendy cocktails of the day also included Long Island Ice Tea, Kamikazees, Grasshoppers, and Fuzzy Navels. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">For the teetotalers, fill the cooler with Fresca, Tab, Crystal Light or Capri Sun.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">80s party snacks</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> - Although invented in 1964, <a href="http://www.chiff.com/cooking/meats/buffalo-chicken-wings.htm">buffalo chicken wings</a> really only took off in 1981. And the rest, as they say, is history. Also think about serving heaping bowls of a relatively new-fangled snack called microwave (wow!) popcorn. "Lite" low calorie versions were huge.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">80s party food</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> - <a href="http://www.chiff.com/entertain/sushi-party-ideas.htm">Sushi</a> hit the scene! Veal or chicken francese suddenly became the favorite of 80s foodies in restaurants throughout the land, along with equally popular <a href="http://www.chiff.com/recipe/pages/10593.htm">pasta salad</a> - washed down with lots of cheap house wine - white, preferably.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><b>80s cakes and desserts</b> - Of course, no 1980s restaurant dessert menu would have been complete without mud pie or dirt cake. For a down-home (and easier to serve) dessert, try trendy 80s pudding pops. For the calorie conscious, remember that frozen yogurt stores could be found on every street corner in every major city, and was the decade's equivalent to Starbucks, at least for a few years. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Want to get your sugar rush on? Pass around favorite 80's junk food such as Skittles, Reece's Pieces, and Pop Rocks. Or, put them in a goody bag for guests to take home. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Gnarly, dude.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">More about 1980's party food around the Web:</span></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_5049315_plan-party-food.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">How to Plan 80s Party Food</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.rad80sfashion.com/80s_party_foods.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">80s party foods</span></span></a></div><div><br /></div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-70746037553813151142009-06-01T16:41:00.004-04:002009-06-02T13:37:40.311-04:00Top Ten Father's Day Gift Ideas<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmYJmb9BjVMASfty4PvodSVZtP1MwxcScVrdNu8WqqacPD8zNBdtQ4ik0nJMFP2d8GqkvVPFBgJr-XPVvWbIdJnkfWcMRhGnFZfp0hMDdYplkZ0EGH-r-Gfnf1i87sukqvuzY2O2H_j1Ge/s400/thumbs-up.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 126px; height: 115px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342467838443852082" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Of course, there are plenty of </span></span><a href="http://www.helium.com/knowledge/169065-bad-fathers-day-gift-ideas"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">bad</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> father's day gift ideas</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">. </span></span><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Then there are the classics that are always sure to please. If you've already given the tie, the socks, hankerchiefs (or the requisite bottle of Old Spice), check out these time-tested Father's Day gift ideas that will really make him feel like King for a Day:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">1. Sports events tickets - If dad's a sports lover, tickets to his favorite team's sporting event will catch his attention on Father's Day. Get tickets for you and your siblings to make it a fun family outing.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">2. Beer of the month club subscription - If Dad is a beer drinker, this surprise is a gift that keeps on giving throughout the year, and a great reason to stay in touch to find out which one's he liked, and which one's he didn't, and why.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">3. Food gift basket - Buy one premade online, or create it yourself. Just make sure it's filled with all his favorite foods, snacks or beverages for a truly enjoyable and memorable Father's Day Gift.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">4. Universal remote - A great guy gift for any occasion. (For a good laugh, consider buying one of those oversized giant TV remotes that are too big to misplace. Mom will thank you, too.) If Dad's not tech-saavy, help him set it up. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">5. The gift of travel - Send Dad AND mom on a short cruise, a local winery tour, a weekend getaway, or golf resort. If money is tight, chip in with other siblings to defray the cost.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">6. Dinner for two to his favorite restaurant - Does he rave about a great but pricy restaurant nearby that's normally only reserved for special occasions? Purchase a gift certificate to treat dad and mom to a night out on the town.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">7. Keep him entertained - Shop around for his favorite movies of all time, like the Godfather trilogy, or a gift set of favorite action movies or westerns. You might also consider adding to dad's cable subscription with an upgrade to a favorite premium sports or movie channel.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">8. Go top shelf - Make it special with the premium 12-year old single malt, or how about a vintage bottle of wine? Also consider upgrading him to a pair of hi-tech digital binoculars, or check out that new Swiss army knife complete with USB hard drive for geek dads.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">9. Magazine subscription - With thousands to choose from, you're sure to find one he likes, whether its Travel & Leisure, Golf Digest, or even a Newsweek subscription for great bathroom reading.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">10. Still not sure what to get? - Treat dad to a gift card or certificate to his favorite automotive center, home improvement store or clothing shop, and let him go wild.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">More top Father's Day gift ideas around the Web:</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1676621/the_10_best_inexpensive_fathers_day_pg4.html?cat=46"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The 10 Best Inexpensive Father's Day Gift Ideas</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/794675/top_10_fathers_day_gift_ideas_for_the_pg2.html?cat=74"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Top 10 Father's Day Gift Ideas for the Dad Who Has (Almost) Everything</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.streetdirectory.com/travel_guide/201040/fatherhood/10_great_gift_ideas_for_fathers_day.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">10 Great Gift Ideas for Fathers Day</span></span></a><br /></div><div><br /></div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-87104014844333447022009-05-23T16:00:00.004-04:002009-06-02T13:36:48.263-04:00Memorial Day Party Ideas<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSQdMFLWYzNyyH0kW8Hijo10W1DT8FdYhwPzVk9f2MZlTlQcfVCOn4aMFpQ7mYnZsR-m9EfuUgzWvMUyKDXW8H_u1fAVcBUmX_X7M9B-aGXmxfqlvjZAfL5cgQiFyF9XAms-GYv3fHVLqy/s400/bbq.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 122px; height: 100px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339112691146351666" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:arial;">First observed in 1868 to commemorate fallen solidiers following the Civil War, Memorial Day evolved into a holiday that remembers all in the military who gave their lives in service to the USA.</span><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Although today Memorial Day is mostly about a three-day weekend and the unofficial start of summer cookouts, here are some great ways to incorporate the true meaning of the day into your Memorial Day festivities:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Decorations</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Use plenty of red, white and blue, of course! Decorate with the patriotic color theme with colored carnations and balloons. Mix and match tableware by using red napkins, blue plates and white plastic knives and forks. For a lovely effect at dusk, backyard lights in patriotic colors will set the mood even as the sun goes down.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Food</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Nothing says Memorial Day like an outdoor <a href="http://www.chiff.com/cooking/barbecue.htm">barbecue</a> of grilled chicken and steaks, shish kebab, hot dogs or burgers alongside fresh macaroni or potato salad. Wash it all down with fresh homemade lemonade or ice tea. And don't forget the other cool treats of the season with generous slices of watermelon or a heaping bowl of fruit salad.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">For dessert, serve cupcakes frosted white with red strawberries and blueberries, or use the same ingredients to make an <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/recipe/flag-sheet-cake-by-martha">American flag sheet cake</a>.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Fun Memorial Day Activities</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Backyard party games like horseshoes or volley ball are the order of the day, or go fly a kite! (and et Dad take the reigns and show the kids how it's done.) </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And what would Memorial Day be without the music? Load up the iPod or CD player with these Top 10 favorite patriotic tunes:</span></span></div><div><ol><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Born in the USA - Bruce Springsteen<br /></span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">American Pie - Don McLean<br /></span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Stars and Stripes Forever - John Phillips Sousa<br /></span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The Star-Spangled Banner - Francis Scott Key<br /></span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Philadelphia Freedom - Elton John<br /></span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Only In America - Brooks And Dunn<br /></span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">This Land Is Your Land - Woody Guthrie<br /></span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">God Bless the USA - Lee Greenwood<br /></span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Some Gave All - Billy Ray Cyrus<br /></span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Arlington - Trace Adkins<br /></span></span></li></ol></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">More Memorial Day party ideas around the Web:</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.celebrations.com/barbeque"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Barbecue and Outdoor Entertaining</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_2126097_host-memorial-day-barbecue.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">How to Host a Memorial Day Barbecue</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.amazingmoms.com/htm/party_summer_fun_parties.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Summer party ideas for kids</span></span></a></div><div><br /></div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-44101672843286735282009-05-18T09:03:00.004-04:002009-07-13T14:50:57.563-04:00Kids Pirate Party Food Ideas<div><br /></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSY3rAhh0Srf5N608L68NOhYeZ7MGAyhv2a6J8a6qskTzleEe5blj52V0EaGuPeKMZpFYR_HvvEbx8YjgjjGBsN3mNH6DmcQeWeB71tHSXvfv9Gzbx0njA1RECM6sVTPafQYbkavRDIsmz/s400/watermelon.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 113px; height: 143px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337149791247168770" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Where did pirates live for most of their lives? On the high seas, of course! </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Serve your hungry swashbucklers fish and chips, or fish sticks and french fries, with plenty of tartar sauce and ketchup.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">For land lubbers, you can serve hot dogs or pizza decorated with with toothpicks and paper pirate sails, or serve pigs in a blanket and call them "Pirate Fingers."</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Gold-wrapped chocolate coins, goldfish crackers or gummy fish are must-have snacks. Don't forget to include more nutritious tropical island fare (you don't want anyone catching scurvy or rickets!) with fruit kabobs or fruit platters of slice pineapple, oranges, bananas and mangos. (Also see: </span></span><a href="http://chiffpartyideas.blogspot.com/2009/05/party-hawaiian-food-menu-planning.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">how to host a luau</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">.)</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">A </span></span><a href="http://www.watermelon.org/recipe_detail.asp?recipeDisp=179"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">watermelon pirate ship</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> is a fun and eye catching idea, and it's easier than it sounds. Fill it up with melon balls and colorul fruit salad and it's guaranteed to please the pickiest pirate.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Wash it all down with plenty of grog (apple cider) foamy root beer or Shark's Blood Punch (any red fruit drink.) </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Birthday cake ideas</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">If you're handy with an icing tube, use your imagination to decorate with a treasure map with a big "X" to mark the spot, or try a chocolate and vanilla icing skull and crossbones. Want spectacular? Try this recipe for a </span></span><a href="http://jas.familyfun.go.com/recipefinder/display?id=50213"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Pirate Treasure Chest Cake</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">More about pirate party food around the Web:</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.birthdaypartyideas.com/html/pirate_party.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The Pirate Birthday Party</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.coolest-birthday-cakes.com/pirate-cake.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Coolest Homemade Pirate Cake Photos and How-To Tips</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/le_kids_parties/article/0,2041,DIY_14024_2278740,00.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Mermaid Party Food Ideas</span></span></a></div><div><br /></div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-4301874022056472322009-05-12T12:19:00.003-04:002009-06-26T12:28:15.992-04:00Party Hawaiian - Food & Menu Planning<div><br /></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3DrNarZaocEmXr8eCsJGegR7qNvoE6rhmSVooo7VBbSod5DvjqDSs-1TNLjHsfrhVNlf9ygQixFe_jTYQdAHstB0EQ4bbI4H65nwg-cbReZihLJKan0JRR_d8Q6uyD4WkeqPmesxKcKQp/s400/luau.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 118px; height: 90px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5334976710281511842" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Summertime...and it's time to host a luau! Think the theme is a little too exotic or not sure what to serve? No worries, brah. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Four main ingredients (actually five if you count the rum!) make up the summer's most popular party theme. That is - seafood, pork, pineapple and cocunut.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Let these basic Hawaiian "food groups" flow through your menu from appetizers, main courses to desserts, and you and your guests will be partying Hawaiian in no time.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">First, break the ice with these classic <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Hawaiian luau drinks</span>:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/The-Perfect-Mai-Tai/Detail.aspx">Mai Tai cocktail recipe</a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><a href="http://www.drinksmixer.com/drink1385.html">Blue Hawaiian cocktail recipe</a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><a href="http://www.theworldwidegourmet.com/recipes/monarchy-luau-punch-hawaii/">Hawaiian Punch</a></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Appetizers</span> - pass around a pupu platter filled with these tasty morsels:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><a href="http://coconut-shrimp.blogspot.com/">Coconut Shrimp</a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><a href="http://alohaworld.com/ono/viewrecipe.php?id=1097464802&category=Pork">Hawaiian Spare Ribs</a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Also, don't forget the bowls of macadamia nuts, or go all out with this dynamite recipe for <a href="http://gohawaii.about.com/od/appetizerspupus/r/macnut_hummus.htm">macadamia nut hummus and chips</a>.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Main course</span> - pork, of course - but a <a href="http://www.hawaiiforvisitors.com/about/pig-roasting.htm">whole pig roast</a>? If you have the time, the patience and the room out in the backyard. go for it! However, here are some easier luau recipes to try without going whole hog:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Sam-Choys-Oven-Roasted-Kalua-Pig-233927">Sam Choy's Oven-Roasted Kalua Pig with Sweet Potatoes</a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><a href="http://www.recipezaar.com/Kalua-Pig-in-a-Slow-Cooker-211379">Kalua Pig in a Slow Cooker</a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Hawaiian-Ham-Bake/Detail.aspx">Hawaiian Ham Bake</a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Dessert!</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><a href="http://www.cakechannel.com/free-easy-coconut-cake-recipe.html">Free & Easy Coconut cake recipe</a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><a href="http://www.cooks.com/rec/search/0,1-0,macadamia_nut_cake,FF.html">Macadamia nut cake</a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><a href="http://www.dole.com/Recipes/Rec_Ed_003-Kabob.jsp">Hawaiian fruit kabobs</a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">More about Hawaiin luau party food around the Web:</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><a href="http://www.howtodothings.com/food-and-drink/a2154-how-to-throw-a-great-hawaiian-luau-party.html">How to Throw a Great Hawaiian Luau Party</a></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><a href="http://www.paradisefoundonline.com/site/745816/page/256031">Hawaiian Luau Foods</a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4691307982343786907.post-15545334667318231082009-05-03T15:00:00.007-04:002009-06-25T13:27:09.190-04:00Fast, Easy Graduation Party Food Ideas<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgbAqDPlsISnJQyB1jPMzTbveN8xF2Elin_SDDZUoGPQC9u7QExoN6t41vffT_uQii_9DgNU5JADfDwy8v6G2Jkjx8EUKDWudOPwtCY1r3rUZkQmm4S_vUc-TfRupCQBeqcu957CBeDQoI/s400/graduation+party.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 108px; height: 104px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5331678901243055154" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Here are some of the quickiest, easiest and most practical ideas for throwing a graduation party without the hassles.<br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">For easy cleanup afterwards, stock up on plastic forks, knives, spoons and serving utensils, paper or plastic cups, plates and table clothes.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Easy finger food suggestions</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">veggie tray and dip</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">tortilla roll ups</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">antipasto tray</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">fruit salad or </span></span><a href="http://www.landolakes.com/mealIdeas/ViewRecipe.cfm?RecipeID=13717"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">fruit and cheese kabobs</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">shrimp and cocktail sauce (look for the prepacked party trays at your local supermarket)</span></span></div><div><a href="http://www.deviledeggs.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">deviled eggs</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The main graduation party menu</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">6-foot long hero sandwiches - from Sam's or Costco.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Two words - Pizza party! Have it delivered.</span><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Backyard garden party - A good idea for morning or early afternoon get-togethers, with guests filling up on finger sandwiches, scones, bite-sized desserts, tea and coffee. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Taco bar - Prepare the fixings the night before. Include shredded lettuce, cheese and tacho shells - set up the meat filling in a large crockpot or on a pan warmer - and let guests serve themselves.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Have a cookout - More work for mom and dad, but several pounds of hamburger and jumbo packages of hot dogs should do the trick. Don't forget the chips, dip and potato salad.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Drinks - </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Have plenty of ice on hand to fill up coolers with soda, water, beer or wine. Hint: label each cooler so guests know exactly where to find their favorite beverage without asking.</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Graduation party desserts - </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Besides a quick </span></span><a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Graduation-Sheet-Cake"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">graduation sheet cakes</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">, cupcakes are the easiest dessert to serve. Buy them prepackaged and mound them in a pyramid on a serving tray and let guests serve themselves. Or try your hand at making the ever popular <a href="http://www.chiff.com/a/graduation-cake.htm">graduation cap cakes</a>. </span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Your fastest, cheapest bet? Hit your local <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Dunkin Donuts</span>.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">More about quick and easy graduation party food around the Web:</span></span></span></div><div><ul><li><a href="http://www.graduationparty.com/graduation-party-menu.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Graduation Party Menu Planning</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /><br /></span></span></li><li><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/756307/graduation_party_food_tips_plan_a_festive_pg2.html?cat=22"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Graduation Party Food Tips</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /><br /></span></span></li><li><a href="http://parentingteens.about.com/library/tips/bledptip13.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Graduation Party Tips - About.com</span></span></a></li></ul></div>Chiff.com Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07171230989261345222noreply@blogger.com3