Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Entertaining III


Today I'm entertaining at home - I'm hosting a Christmas luncheon for the office staff where I "work". I enjoy the work I do so much I don't much think of it in terms of work, but I do get paid a small salary so technically it is.

Because I'm only there part-time, I depend on the very able full time staff to assist me in so many ways that I like to thank them at year's end by having them for a holiday lunch. Of course, someone has to stay back and answer the phones so in this case we leave the men to do that work and the women come to my house for an extended lunch hour. (Since I traditionally serve mimosas I'm not sure they're much good when they do get back to the office, but hey - it's the holidays!)

For me, entertaining is my way of showing people how special I think they are. I'm not a person of means so I can't just hand out Christmas bonuses or buy extravagant gifts. What I can do is treat people like royalty and make them know they are very much appreciated. And that's what I do. Taking them all to a restaurant might be simpler and easier, but it's not an option for me. And besides - I like making a fuss. It gives me an excuse to decorate a pretty table, get out the good china, and just enjoy the time together. I think everyone likes being fussed over - at least I know I do!

So the linens are washed, ironed and starched - because nothing seems as luxurious to me as crisply ironed linens! The table is set, the food is prepared, and they'll be here in a few short hours. As someone once said, any excuse for a party!

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