Allison Cafe

As 2009 comes to an end and we make plans for the year ahead, it is a great time to reflect and to count our blessings. We feel truly thankful for all of our loving friends and family. We were blessed in so many ways this year. 2009 was a year full of ups and downs but we enjoyed every minute. We especially enjoyed the time that unemployment gave us to spend with each other and with friends and family. Thank you to all of our readers and thank you to our friends and family for your love and support.

Here is to a happy and healthy 2010!

Please leave us a comment and let us know what you are your thankful for, share a favorite memory from this past year or a goal for next year.

For many of us in the United States, New Year’s Eve parties conjure up memories of watching Dick Clark’s Rocking New Year’s Eve bash on television, sipping champagne at midnight, and unfortunately crowded bars and restaurants with ridiculous cover charges. I have long loathed that last one. To me, New Year’s Eve has been more about spending time with close friends and family, and of course that special someone to kiss at midnight. It has been less about needing to attend large parties and spending ridiculous amounts of money just to be there. Do not get me wrong, those events can be fun sometimes, but many times I would much rather be in a smaller setting ringing in the new year with the ones I love and not hundreds of strangers.

I think that is why a lot of people decide to create their own party and host it at home. Not only is it a lot more affordable, it also can be a more intimate event. And it can still be just as chic and fun as the trendiest clubs, if you take the time to decorate. And do not be afraid to ask guests to contribute to the menu. Hosting it as a pot luck can actually be a lot less work for the host and make guests feel like part of the planning committee. And let’s be honest, not all of our friends want to cook for the party, so task those guests with bringing other key ingredients like beverages.

New Year’s Eve should (more…)