Our Valentine Party

Every year (okay, we've only done it for the past two years, but still), Shawn and I host a St. Valentine's Day dinner at our house. We have dinner, drinks, and dessert and invite over some couples we know to celebrate the day. Last night was our party.

I shined the house up real nice, got out the good dishes, and set the table all fancy for a dinner party for 10.

This year I ordered food from Carrie Cerino's (last year I cooked and worked myself up into a frenzy worrying about it). We had chicken piccata, potatoes au gratin (at the request of Shawn), and a delicious salad. I made some asparagus because I love it and actually have the capacity to cook it. I also bought a delicious chocolate mousse pie, but then dropped it on the floor as soon as our guests arrived. Never fear, I also had plenty of cheese and chocolate fondue leftover for dessert.

My philosophy towards entertaining* is this: guests should never stop eating and drinking. There should never be a lull in the food; rather there should be items to graze on the entire time. A guest with a full tummy is a happy guest... or at least his or her mouth is too full to complain.

After dinner, we played a few rounds of the Newlywed Game. Shawn and I won a round (yay, love!) and Don and Melissa won another (we went easy on them). Next year, I will remember to buy prizes so the victories are even sweeter.

All in all, I'd say the night was a very lovey, very dovey success!

-- Lisa

* Adults are always using the word "entertaining." Like on those shows where the people are looking for a new house to buy, they always say, "oh, this kitchen is perfect for entertaining." But no one actually entertains. People generally sit at home and avoid having people over because it is too much work. Not me. I love having guests in our home. Why else am I spending all kinds of time cleaning and decorating this place? Someone who isn't making the mortgage payment should enjoy it!