Appetizer Cranium Party

In this time of turmoil, sadness, and destruction, it is good to be reminded of things that make us happy and hopeful. Something that is important to me is my network of friends and community. Living in a big city, it's easy to feel alone, isolated, and not part of a community. I wish more people fought against the NIMBY syndrome (Not In My BackYard): Community is really an essential aid during times of loss and devastation. Last Saturday night, we hosted a small party for some friends in our lives. It was a night filled with good food, friends, tasty drinks, deep discussions, and a round of a Cranium. It was structured as a vegetarian/vegan appetizer party. Here's a partial menu of what was on the buffet:
veggie dumplings
olives
brie and smoked havarti cheese
french bread
edamame - see picture below for details
wasabi peas party mix
hummus and pitas
chips and black bean dip
chocolate covered almonds and espresso beans
and to drink: Mill St. Brewery beer, teatinis (almond sunset tea infused with vodka and frangelico), lychee martinis, mohitos, scotch, brandy, and spiked pink lemonade!



Needless to say, our party lasted a while and we had a fun match of Cranium. It may seem like a bit of work to organize, but we bought the dumplings readymade, and we set up the dining room table as a buffet. It's great when it turns into a potluck and guests bring dishes and drinks as well. Plus, the bonus of appetizer/drink parties is that there is less clean-up required than a dinner party. Yea for that!