Entertaining during the holidays without cooking

Tonight is my yearly Neighborhood Christmas Party. It's something that we all look forward to. I have several elderly neighbors that don't get out much so it is a real treat for them. Here's how I pull it off without being in the kitchen too much...
Invitations are printed using Word and regular printer paper. No fancy stationary. My children deliver the announcements by hand, running door to door, handing out candy too. There is no RSVP on the invites so I don't have to worry about keeping a count. Not many people on the block miss the party, because I have it on a week day evening and keep it short. Just 6:30-8:30. Making sure to have an ending time. The invites state that it is a cookie party. You've probably heard of cookie swaps, but we don't do that. I only ask that each family bring a plate of cookies, store bought or home made. As for me, I bought a beautiful tray of Christmas cookies from Costco for $16.00 and I'll also be making some chocolate chip cookies from refrigerator cookie dough. Even I can do that! The dining room table is left empty with exception of a simple centerpiece and before too long it is covered with pretty, tasty treats. The only other thing I have to supply is lots of soda, cups, small plates and small napkins.
Now of course, I have to clean my house from top to bottom, but luckily the whole family pitches in.

The neighbor's all have a wonderful time catching up with each other and usually get to take a few cookies home with them. There is not much clean up at the end of the night either thank goodness!

Only one problem this year...my house was fully decorated and lit up this morning, but the tree lights just went out!!! ARGH. I have one of those dumb pre-lit trees and this isn't the first time I've had to spend 2 hours wiggling bulbs until the lights come back on. I'll never buy one of these again. Make sure you watch the video of my toddler and kitten running around under the tree. It's over on my other blog.
www.sillylittlesparrow.com

Happy Entertaining!!