I spent my evening cleaning! I mentioned on Tuesday that I’m hosting a pre-prom party, and since I didn’t want to put the hard part off until Saturday, I went ahead and took care of all the chores I hate – toilets, shower, cleaning that little space between the wall and the kitchen sink, and clearing off my desk, which tends to get piled up with junk. I feel especially good about these tasks because I’m usually not very productive at night. I tend to get sucked onto the couch and work on computer things. But tonight, I popped open a Corona, turned up the Christmas tunes, and got dirty.

Anyway, the fun part is planning the menu, prepping the food, and then the fiesta itself. Entertaining is a lot of work, and I’d do it more if it weren’t for the cost, but I love it! I think I just enjoy anything that involves planning and food.

Since this gathering is just a short pre-game, I’m keeping it simple. Everything can be assembled beforehand and put in the oven when people arrive.
Mushroom and Pepper Pizza – I like to make a square because you can cut it into smaller squares and it still looks pretty (Well I guess you could kinda do that with a round too…)
Pigs in a Blanket – Trader Joe’s has its own version of crescent rolls as well as cocktail dogs.
Mexican Dip – A simple version with layers of refried beans, cheese, salsa, and guacamole.
Goat, gouda, and salami with crackers and fruit.
Mini caprese skewers – Halved cherry tomatoes drizzled with oil and balsamic with cheese in the center.
And another apple crisp, because Matt gobbled down the leftovers of the one I made Tuesday. Plus, it’s a quick crowd pleaser!

And wine + beer! One day we’ll have the funds for a full liquor bar…

Hey, gotta please all palates with the bud:) I also bought nice beer.
Happy weekend!!
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I've created this blog because I'm in a bit of a quarter life crisis. Since graduating from college in 2008 and earning an advanced degree in school psychology in May, I still don't know what career path to follow. All I know is that time is moving way too fast and I find myself living only for the weekends. Bear with me as I attempt to reclaim my twenties by finding pleasure and balance in the work week and incorporating my passions of food, fashion, fitness, and fun into everyday life. 
Your menu sounds great. I esp. like your Mexican dip. I’ll have to make that next time I have my book club over. Hope the party goes well!
Sounds like a fun party-can’t wait to hear about it!!!
Do you mind posting the recipe for the apple crisp? Looks delicious!
Sure! It’s actually from Tina’s blog: http://carrotsncake.com/2012/11/moms-apple-crisp.html