All posts by the Hostess
Our Vacation in the Winter of COVID - February 11th, 2021
![Big Sky Resort](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Big-Sky-75x56.jpg)
Before COVID-19 became a household term and a worldwide nightmare, we typically spent about half the year enjoying various forms Read the Rest…
To Catch A Shrimp - July 14th, 2018
![Shrimp Appetizer](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/IMG_7944-2-75x56.jpg)
It’s a couple of minutes past 5:00 pm and just as I am mentally switching gears to happy hour, I Read the Rest…
Happy Valentine’s Day - February 13th, 2018
![Frosted Sugar Cookies](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Frosted-Sugar-Cookies-75x75.jpg)
Valentine’s Day. Is this the holiday you love to hate, or is that just me? I mean, while I do Read the Rest…
French 75 Punch, Perfect For Your Holiday Party - December 24th, 2017
![French 75 Punch](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/French-75-Punch-75x76.jpg)
While Jon and I are all about entertaining, admittedly we tend to enjoy hosting small, intimate gatherings over large, standing-room-only Read the Rest…
Berry Shortcake - June 29th, 2016
![Berry Shortcake](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Berry-Shortcake-75x75.jpg)
It’s strawberry season here in our little neck of the woods, and I could not be happier. The local farms Read the Rest…
Martini On The Rocks - June 21st, 2016
![Grapefruit Martini On The Rocks](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Grapefruit-Martini-On-The-Rocks-75x75.jpg)
It seems I have become infatuated with frozen water. Honestly, my love affair with ice is not a new thing. Read the Rest…
Eliza’s Cinnamon Buns - May 11th, 2016
![Eliza Waite Book Club](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Cinnamon-Rolls-75x113.jpg)
book club A code women use to get together and drink large amounts of alcohol, especially margaritas. It Read the Rest…
Homemade Carrot Cake – A Labor Of Love - March 27th, 2016
![Happy Easter Cake](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Happy-Easter-Cake-75x113.jpg)
This cake is a labor of love. By that, I mean it’s a lot of work. But I love carrot Read the Rest…
Pimento Cheese – It’s a Southern Thing - March 10th, 2016
![Pimento Cheese Spread](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Pimento-Cheese-Spread-75x75.jpg)
Pimento Cheese. It’s a Southern thing. Like so many recipes that have been around forever, there are many versions of Read the Rest…
Grapefruit Martini: This One’s A Keeper - February 19th, 2016
![Grapefruit Martini](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Grapefruit-Martini-75x75.jpg)
Sometimes, it seems, there can be a lot of joy and happiness in a martini glass. And this is one Read the Rest…
Christmas Brunch - December 24th, 2015
![Candles](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/Candles-75x50.jpg)
When we started this blog, I had a vision (albeit somewhat blurred) and goal to share all aspects of life Read the Rest…
Debbie’s Birthday Cake - December 16th, 2015
![Cranberry Layer Cake](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Cranberry-Walnut-Cake-75x75.jpg)
How do you spell love? For me, I spell it C.A.K.E. At least that’s what I did last week when Read the Rest…
Life Happens - June 4th, 2015
![Life Happens](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Playing-Hooky-75x50.jpg)
Life happens. That’s the only reason I have for explaining our absence over the last couple of weeks. With an Read the Rest…
Mother’s Day Brunch - May 7th, 2015
![Mother's Day Brunch Placesetting](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Mothers-Day-Placesetting-75x50.jpg)
Here’s what is going down this week. It’s Mother’s Day. You volunteered to host the family for brunch. You haven’t Read the Rest…
The Magic of Frozen Water - May 1st, 2015
![Ice Cooler Ice Mold](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Garnished-Ice-Ring-75x113.jpg)
My sister-in-law, Lisa, showed up the other day with a present for me. It may be one of the best Read the Rest…
The Best Key Lime Pie Ever - April 28th, 2015
![Key Lime Pie](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Key-Lime-Pie-75x75.jpg)
This isn’t a novel idea, but it’s certainly how my mind works. My food tastes and preferences change with the Read the Rest…
Cinco de Mayo Party - April 25th, 2015
![Cinco de Mayo Appetizers](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Cinco-de-Mayo-Buffet-75x50.jpg)
One doesn’t need to be fluent in Spanish to know what Cinco de Mayo means. Although, truthfully, I wonder how Read the Rest…
Some Of My Favorite Entertaining Tips - April 19th, 2015
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Patio-Party-75x49.jpg)
Once again (and back by popular demand), here is a list of entertaining tips from House Beautiful magazine. The magazine Read the Rest…
Risotto With Friends - April 3rd, 2015
![Risotto](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Risotto-75x50.jpg)
When we first started this blog, one of the first posts we shared listed 10 reasons why you all should Read the Rest…
Easter Brunch Menu - March 31st, 2015
![Chocolate Chick in Teacup](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Chocolate-Chick-in-Teacup-75x50.jpg)
Here comes Peter Cottontail… While I know the the true meaning of Easter isn’t the egg hunts or the candy-filled Read the Rest…
Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits - March 22nd, 2015
![Buttermilk Biscuits](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Buttermilk-Biscuits-75x75.jpg)
Biscuits. It hardly gets more southern than this. Biscuits might even be considered a downright staple in the south. If Read the Rest…
Homemade Vegetable Beef Soup – What’s Not To Love - March 4th, 2015
![Homemade Soup](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Vegetable-Beef-Soup1-75x75.jpg)
This is not new news. I love soup. I love eating soup and I love making soup. For me, a Read the Rest…
What’s For Dinner: Comfort Food - March 1st, 2015
![Table Setting for Comfort Food](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Casual-Table-75x106.jpg)
If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a gazillion times. There’s a reason that they call it comfort food. Read the Rest…
The (Not So Lazy) Lemon Tart - February 16th, 2015
![Lemon Tart with Slice](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Lemon-Tart-with-Slice-75x50.jpg)
Two things attracted to me to this recipe initially. One, the name. The original name was Lazy Mary’s Lemon Tart. Read the Rest…
Something Sweet and Homemade for Valentine’s Day - February 12th, 2015
![Red Velvet Cake](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Red-Velvet-Cupcakes-75x75.jpg)
Note: This is an updated version (with many more pictures) of our Valentine’s Day post from 2013. You can read Read the Rest…
Back To Basics: Really Good Mashed Potatoes - February 8th, 2015
![Really Good Mashed Potatoes](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Mashed-Potatoes-75x75.jpg)
Soufflés are to the culinary world what Mt. Everest is to the mountaineering world: The ultimate proof of skill, tenacity Read the Rest…
Crock-Pot Meatballs - January 26th, 2015
![Crock Pot Meatballs](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Crock-Pot-Meatballs-75x75.jpg)
According to my good buddy Brian Williams, the Crock-pot just turned 75 last week. Ours isn’t 75 years old, but Read the Rest…
A Simple Party For The Reluctant Entertainer - January 17th, 2015
![Easy Snacks for Simple Entertaining](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Easy-Snack-Tray-75x50.jpg)
My sister-in-law is what you might call a “reluctant entertainer.” Which is a little funny to me. Ironic funny, not Read the Rest…
Time to Simplify - January 8th, 2015
![Simple Dessert Idea](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Sees-Chocolates-75x113.jpg)
Some people start the new year like a runner leaving the start line of a big race. A little start Read the Rest…
A New Year’s Eve Dessert Idea - December 31st, 2014
![The perfect New Year's Eve dessert](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/White-Chocolate-Mousse-75x75.jpg)
It’s New Year’s Eve, which means I’m busy pulling together the final details for our dinner party. Our friends offered to Read the Rest…
New Year’s Eve Dinner Party - December 28th, 2014
![Cheers](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Cheers-75x112.jpg)
“Here’s to the bright New Year and a fond farewell to the old; Here’s to the things that are yet Read the Rest…
Every Day is a Holiday With Nanaimo Bars - December 22nd, 2014
![Nanaimo Bars](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Nanaimo-Bar-75x75.jpg)
We’re re-posting one of our most popular holiday recipes (originally posted in November of 2012). Since Nanaimo Bars are an Read the Rest…
When Girls Do Lunch - December 18th, 2014
![Girls Luncheon Placesetting](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Luncheon-Placesetting-75x100.jpg)
Things have been a little quiet around the blog the last couple of weeks. Our energy and our focus have Read the Rest…
Once Again With The Cranberries: Brie Cranberry Bites - December 7th, 2014
![Brie and Cranberry Bites](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Brie-Cranberry-Bites-75x75.jpg)
Although I was always told it’s not polite to say “I told you so,” some situations just seem to call Read the Rest…
Glazed Orange Cranberry Scones - November 30th, 2014
![Glazed Orange Cranberry Scones](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Orange-Cranberry-Scones-75x75.jpg)
If variety is the spice of life, then these scones are providing plenty of spice around here. This is my Read the Rest…
Expert Holiday Entertaining Tips - November 24th, 2014
![Thanksgiving Placesetting](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Thanksgiving-Placesetting-75x49.jpg)
Every year for the past few years, House Beautiful magazine has published a list of top holiday entertaining tips. From Read the Rest…
Dress Up Your Punch Bowl With An Ice Ring - November 18th, 2014
![Holiday Punch Bowl](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Holiday-Punch-Bowl-75x112.jpg)
Punch for parties. Talk about something that has been around forever. A quick search on the internet told me that Read the Rest…
Cranberry Layer Cake – A Perfect Thanksgiving Dessert - November 14th, 2014
![Cranberry Layer Cake](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Cranberry-Walnut-Cake-75x75.jpg)
Okay, here we go again. A new recipe (yea!) that, yet again, I can’t seem to share without telling you Read the Rest…
Virtual World Meets Real World - November 6th, 2014
![Entertaining Couple Meets Joy The Baker](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Entertaining-Couple-Meets-Joy-The-Baker-75x56.jpg)
Blogging is a virtual thing. Probably more than any other aspect, that’s what I’ve come to realize and appreciate about Read the Rest…
Halloween Dinner Party - October 31st, 2014
![Halloween Table Decorations](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Halloween-Table-Decorations-75x49.jpg)
It’s true. I’ve been known to get just a little carried away during the holidays. I’m not biased. I treat Read the Rest…
Mummy Cookies for Halloween - October 29th, 2014
![Mummy Cookies](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Mummy-Cookies1-75x75.jpg)
My history with frosted sugar cookies goes waaayyy back. Almost to the beginning of time. Well, at least the beginning Read the Rest…
Pumpkin Carving Party - October 27th, 2014
![Jack O' Lantern Collection](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Jack-O-Lantern-Collection-75x49.jpg)
You know how irritating it can be when some people sit around and talk about how different things used to Read the Rest…
Betty’s Pumpkin Bread - October 21st, 2014
![Pumpkin Bread](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Pumpkin-Bread1-75x75.jpg)
Fall. People either love this time of year or they don’t. I fall into the “love it” category. Someone recently Read the Rest…
Fall Is Here – Time for Chicken Corn Chowder - October 8th, 2014
![Chicken Corn Chowder](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Chicken-Corn-Chowder-75x75.jpg)
There are very few things I enjoy as much as a fall day. A real fall day, when the temperatures Read the Rest…
She Walked. - October 3rd, 2014
![Hope for the Cure Cupcakes](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Hope-for-the-Cure-Cupcakes-75x112.jpg)
And she walked. She walked 60 miles over three days. She walked over 1500 miles during the months leading up Read the Rest…
Bite-Size Lasagna - September 30th, 2014
![Lasagna Bites](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Lasagna-Bites-75x75.jpg)
Around our house, when we have some bit of information to share with each other, we’ve gotten in the habit Read the Rest…
A Legacy of Feeding People - September 26th, 2014
![Vanilla Cupcakes with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Vanilla-Cupcakes-with-Lemon-Cream-Cheese-Frosting-75x75.jpg)
Sometimes, something hits you and it’s so darn obvious you can’t believe it hasn’t been utterly clear before that point. Read the Rest…
Jon’s Birthday Cake - September 21st, 2014
![Happy Birthday](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Happy-Birthday-75x112.jpg)
It’s been a while since I baked a cake for Jon’s birthday. And, when I say “a while,” I really Read the Rest…
Glazed Lemon Blueberry Scones - September 18th, 2014
![Glazed Lemon Blueberry Scones](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Glazed-Lemon-Blueberry-Scones-75x75.jpg)
It all started with a trip to one of the local farm stands a couple of weeks ago. It was Read the Rest…
Lemon Blackberry Ice Cream - September 8th, 2014
![Crushing the Blackberries](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Crushing-the-Blackberries-75x49.jpg)
There has been a whole lotta blackberrying going on around here lately. Sometimes, everything comes up roses. At this particular Read the Rest…
Fresh Tomato and Basil Tart - September 4th, 2014
![Tomato Tart](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Tomato-Tart-75x75.jpg)
Something had to happen. These beautiful, ripe tomatoes, gifts from neighbors with bountiful gardens, had been sitting on our counter Read the Rest…
Impromptu Entertaining - September 1st, 2014
![Transistor Radio](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Transistor-Radio-75x112.jpg)
Impromptu. What a great word. Fun to say and perfect in some situations. Just another good example of something we Read the Rest…
Goodbye, Summer - August 29th, 2014
![Flower Arrangement](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Flower-Arrangement-75x49.jpg)
As if right on cue, the temperatures have dropped about 20 degrees today and the skies are gray. I guess Read the Rest…
Blackberry Cobbler – Some Things Are Worth Repeating - August 27th, 2014
![Blackberry Cobbler](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Blackberry-Cobbler-75x75.jpg)
When we first launched our blog, one of our earliest posts was about blackberries. Specifically, it was about my dread Read the Rest…
Hot Crab Dip - August 24th, 2014
![Crab Dip](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Crab-Dip-75x75.jpg)
As I write this, we have a crab pot in the water and we’re whiling away some time, which seems Read the Rest…
Summer’s Last Hurrah - August 19th, 2014
![Summer Tabletop](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/5-Summer-Tabletop1-75x112.jpg)
I know. Seasons change. Four seasons and all of that. And, I’m actually okay with living in a four-seasons world. Read the Rest…
Let Them Eat Cupcakes - August 15th, 2014
![Frosted Cupcakes](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Frosted-Cupcakes-75x75.jpg)
What’s a birthday party without cake? Or, in this case, cupcakes. I know they are a little trendy right now, Read the Rest…
Good Tidings From The Garden - August 11th, 2014
![Lemon Zucchini Bread](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Lemon-Zucchini-Bread-Slices-75x75.jpg)
A recipe for Lemon Zucchini Bread showed up in my feed from Pinterest this morning. Which was very timely since Read the Rest…
Our Favorite Summer Salad - July 30th, 2014
![Corn, Tomato, and Avocado Salad](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Corn-Tomato-Avocado-Salad-with-Seed-Packs-75x75.jpg)
Summer. At its best, it is easy, leisurely and relaxed. And, it seems that everyone is on an endless vacation. Read the Rest…
Just Do It - July 28th, 2014
![Patio Dinner Party](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Patio-Dinner-Party-75x112.jpg)
Not like I need any reminders of why I love summer. But this was a perfect summer evening, and we Read the Rest…
Raspberry Ice Cream - July 24th, 2014
![Raspberry Ice Cream](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Raspberry-Ice-Cream-75x75.jpg)
Occasionally on Facebook or in e-mails I see one of those lists that contain things that “kids born today” will Read the Rest…
Homemade Clam Chowder - July 13th, 2014
![New England Clam Chowder](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Clam-Chowder-75x75.jpg)
Growing up in the Seattle area in the 50’s and 60’s, we were all familiar with a guy who was Read the Rest…
Nature’s Spontaneity = Strawberry Shortcake - July 9th, 2014
![Strawberries](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Strawberries-75x75.jpg)
I’ve never been much of a “fruit and vegetable” gardener. I’m one of those people who loves the idea of Read the Rest…
Happy Birthday America! - June 30th, 2014
![Flags](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Flags-75x112.jpg)
Everyone loves a birthday party, it seems. And when it’s the good ol’ US of A that’s having the birthday, Read the Rest…
A Pound Cake Recipe Falls Flat. Or Does It? - June 25th, 2014
![Lemon Pound Cake](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Lemon-Pound-Cake-75x75.jpg)
It was one of those afternoons where I feeling pretty snorty about my entertaining prowess. The table was set, the Read the Rest…
Some Like It Hot - June 21st, 2014
![Cornbread Muffins with Sign](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Cornbread-Muffins-with-Sign-75x112.jpg)
For as long as I have been making cornbread (the early days using the stuff out of the blue box Read the Rest…
Strawberry Napolean - June 10th, 2014
![Strawberry Napolean with Blueberries](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Strawberry-Napolean-with-Blueberries-75x75.jpg)
I think this dessert has been around for a long time. But I had never had it until I was Read the Rest…
Lemonade - June 8th, 2014
![Lemonade Stand](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Lemonade-Stand-75x49.jpg)
Did every kid, at some point growing up, have a lemonade stand at the end of their driveway? I did. Read the Rest…
Mom’s Simple (and Simply Delicious) Potato Salad - June 3rd, 2014
![Potato Salad Ingredients](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Potato-Salad-Ingredients-75x49.jpg)
Growing up, our family was not what you would call foodies. My mom didn’t spend her time in the kitchen Read the Rest…
Summer Spinach Salad - May 27th, 2014
![Summer Spinach Salad](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Spinach-Salad-75x75.jpg)
Summer is here, and the proof is in the eating. It’s strawberry season, which means it’s salad season in this Read the Rest…
Grilled Cuban Sandwich - May 24th, 2014
![Cubano Sandwich Ingredients](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Cubano-Sandwich-Ingredients-75x49.jpg)
I’ll take Entertaining Quandaries for $200. Answer: “Cuban Sandwich Sliders” Question: “What do you take to a dock party where Read the Rest…
Crab Cakes – A Summer Favorite - May 18th, 2014
![Lump Crab Meat](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Lump-Crab-Meat-75x49.jpg)
Memorial Day is the official kick-off to the summer season. At least in most parts of the country. Here, in Read the Rest…
Pizza, Chapter 3 - May 14th, 2014
![Roasted Tomato Pizza](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Roasted-Tomato-Pizza-75x75.jpg)
Sometimes, in life, it’s the simple things that can make the biggest difference. With food, this can be especially true. Read the Rest…
Brunch – A Good Reason to Rise and Shine - May 10th, 2014
![Scones](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Scones-75x75.jpg)
I’m not what you’d call a morning person. And by that I mean that not by any stretch of the Read the Rest…
Scones! A Glorious Way to Start the Day - May 8th, 2014
![Glazed Scone](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Glazed-Scone-75x75.jpg)
My love affair with scones began at the state fair. I don’t think I ever missed the fair and loved Read the Rest…
Chalk: It’s Not Just For Kids Any More - May 5th, 2014
![Chalkboard Paint Door Art](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Kens-Door-75x100.jpg)
We have a pretty fabulous group of friends that are all part of our entertaining community. Our “village,” if you Read the Rest…
Homemade Cinnamon Bread - May 3rd, 2014
![Toasted Cinnamon Bread](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Toasted-Cinnamon-Bread-75x75.jpg)
When I look at my collection of recipes, I feel very fortunate to have so many from friends and family. Read the Rest…
Zucchini Muffins: An Experiment in Cryogenics - April 24th, 2014
![Zucchini Chocolate Chip Muffins](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Zucchini-Chocolate-Chip-Muffins-75x75.jpg)
What is it about zucchini. It seems that every fall some well-meaning neighbor (the one with the big vegetable garden) Read the Rest…
Egg Salad Sandwich: Sometimes Simple is Best - April 22nd, 2014
![Good Ingredients are the Key](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Good-Ingredients-are-the-Key-75x112.jpg)
Sometimes simple is best. And, for me, that’s how I feel about Egg Salad Sandwiches. Three ingredients, plus a little Read the Rest…
Caramel Layer Chocolate Squares: Bake ‘Em, Serve ‘Em, Take a Bow - April 17th, 2014
![Caramel Layer Chocolate Squares](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Caramel-Layer-Chocolate-Squares-75x75.jpg)
There’s a reason I waited so long to make these Caramel Layer Chocolate Squares. And, I almost didn’t tell you Read the Rest…
A Tasty Use for Hardboiled Eggs - April 14th, 2014
![Slicing off the tips](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Slicing-off-the-tips-75x49.jpg)
If the Easter Bunny does his job this weekend, chances are you’ll have a surplus of dyed hardboiled eggs in Read the Rest…
Lemon Icebox Pie - April 10th, 2014
![Lemon Icebox Pie](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Lemon-Icebox-Pie-75x75.jpg)
Even before Pinterest came along, I was a collector of things that inspired me and recipes I wanted to try. Read the Rest…
Hummingbird Cake (Just a Funny Name – No Birds Were Harmed) - March 28th, 2014
![Hummingbird Cake](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Hummingbird-Cake-75x75.jpg)
The original recipe for Hummingbird Cake was submitted by a reader and first appeared in Southern Living magazine in 1978. Read the Rest…
Making The Perfect Grilled Cheese Sandwich - March 26th, 2014
![Grilled Cheese Sandwich](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Grilled-Cheese-Sandwich-75x75.jpg)
A friend asked me recently what my “signature dish” is. That one stumped me. I had never stopped to consider Read the Rest…
Oven Baked French Fries with Truffle Oil - March 23rd, 2014
![Baked French Fries](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Parmesan-Truffle-Fries-2-75x75.jpg)
The internet is the greatest invention. Ever. Not only can I find anything I’m looking for, no matter how abstract Read the Rest…
Margaritas, Tangerine Style - March 19th, 2014
![Tangerine Margaritas](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Tangerine-Margaritas-75x75.jpg)
“Money can’t buy happiness. But it can buy tequila, and that’s almost the same.” (Jose Cuervo advertisement) There’s just something Read the Rest…
Dinner Party 101 - March 18th, 2014
![Plates and Candles](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Plates-and-Candles-75x112.jpg)
As far as parties go, I’m a dinner party kind of gal. I mean, as opposed to a cocktail party Read the Rest…
Favorite Pasta - March 12th, 2014
![Penne Pasta with Vodka Sauce](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Pasta-with-Vodka-Sauce-75x75.jpg)
Everyone seems to have a favorite food. We’re a community who loves our food and labels it accordingly. Oh, this Read the Rest…
Pizza Night - March 10th, 2014
![Pizza Night](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Pizza-Night-75x75.jpg)
I love pizza nights! Well, more specifically, pizza nights when we make homemade pizza for dinner. Okay, actually what I Read the Rest…
Hosting Après-Ski - February 27th, 2014
![Après Ski Beer and Cocktail](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Apres-Ski-Beer-and-Cocktail-75x75.jpg)
a·près-ski [ah-prey-skee, ap-rey-] noun 1. the period of relaxation that follows skiing: menus suitable for après-ski. adjective 2. pertaining to Read the Rest…
Chocolate Chip Cookies to Covet - February 17th, 2014
![Chocolate Chip Cookie Nibbles](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Chocolate-Chip-Cookie-Nibbles-75x49.jpg)
This is a pretty bold proclamation, but I think these are the best chocolate chip cookies in the world. I Read the Rest…
Breakfast for Dinner - February 13th, 2014
![Making Waffles](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Making-Waffles-75x112.jpg)
I read something recently that said that the new trend is having breakfast for dinner. Boy, I never really thought Read the Rest…
Say “I Love You” With Chocolate. And Raspberries. - February 9th, 2014
![Raspberry Jam in Ice Bath -- From EntertainingCouple.com](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Raspberry-Jam-in-Ice-Bath-75x49.jpg)
If I’m being totally honest, I have to admit that sometimes I feel like the Scrooge of Valentines Day. It’s Read the Rest…
Groundhog Day - February 3rd, 2014
![Making Hot Buttered Rum](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Making-Hot-Buttered-Rum-75x112.jpg)
It’s official. Six more weeks of winter. At least according to that cute little rodent turned meteorologist, Punxsutawney Phil, who Read the Rest…
Hosting a Ski Weekend - January 31st, 2014
![Ski Signs](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Ski-Signs-75x49.jpg)
Oh, sure. Our friends tell us that we’re the reason they come to visit. But we have a sneaking suspicion Read the Rest…
Homemade Granola – A Dine and Dash Breakfast - January 26th, 2014
![Granola Ingredients](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Granola-Ingredients-75x49.jpg)
Around this house, mornings seem to happen at one of two speeds. We’re either relaxed and leisurely and can hang Read the Rest…
Girls Weekend - January 21st, 2014
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Deborah-Alex-and-Suzette-75x75.jpg)
What do you get when you have a group of longtime friends, together for an entire weekend, away from jobs Read the Rest…
Got Tangerines? Make A Mousse! - January 15th, 2014
![Tangerines](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Tangerines-75x49.jpg)
Of course I understand how someone might have asked, “Why exactly do you need 10 pounds of tangerines?” And that Read the Rest…
Fun in the Snow Means It’s Time For Hot Chocolate - January 14th, 2014
![Fun in the Snow](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Fun-in-the-Snow-75x75.jpg)
Baby, it’s cold outside! And the snow has been falling pretty much non-stop for the last several days. Around here, Read the Rest…
The Story of Our Quickie. Oops, Make That Quiche… - January 7th, 2014
![Quiche](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/13-Quiche-75x75.jpg)
This is one of those times when I am super excited to share something with you. In this case, it’s Read the Rest…
Turkey: From Roast to Soup - December 29th, 2013
![Turkey Noodle Soup](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Turkey-Noodle-Soup-75x112.jpg)
I’m all in favor of a big feast of turkey, or roast beast if you happen to live in Whoville. Read the Rest…
Christmas Morning Torment - December 23rd, 2013
![Christmas Morning](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Christmas-Morning-Debbie-Johnny-75x49.jpg)
To the casual observer, my childhood and upbringing could appear pretty idyllic. A beautiful mother that we’re pretty sure June Read the Rest…
Mom’s Chocolate Cream Pie: A Holiday Tradition Born In the Kitchen - December 20th, 2013
![Chocolate Cream Pie](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Melted-Chocolate-75x49.jpg)
There is no other time of the year when traditions mean as much as during the holidays. Big or small, Read the Rest…
Putting the Couth into Casual - December 18th, 2013
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/7-Holiday-Table-Setting-75x49.jpg)
There is something appealing about a formally set table. Just looking at the pictures on Pinterest or in catalogs makes Read the Rest…
Tips to Help You (Throw a) Party Like a Pro - December 17th, 2013
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Self-Serve-Candy-Station-75x110.jpg)
‘Tis the season! To jubilate and to fa-la-la; to gather together and celebrate; to host and be hosted; and to survive with Read the Rest…
When You Can’t Hide the Welcome Mat - December 12th, 2013
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Holly-Berries-negative-energy-post-75x112.jpg)
Like it or not, the holiday season is here. And with it comes the inevitable opportunity for entertaining in a Read the Rest…
Homemade Cranberry Sauce - November 25th, 2013
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Berries-in-the-Pot-75x49.jpg)
When people discuss Thanksgiving and the annual feast of turkey, stuffing, potatoes and pies, they usually seem to have pretty Read the Rest…
Ready, Set (the table), Go! - November 24th, 2013
![Table Setting](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Table-Setting-75x52.jpg)
Call me old fashioned, but it just seems like everyone should know which side of the plate to put the Read the Rest…
A Recipe Straight from Tuscany - November 20th, 2013
![Homemade Tuscan Pasta](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Tagliatelle-al-Ragu-di-Carne-75x112.jpg)
Most people agree, there is a lot to love about Italy. People who have been there talk about the history. Read the Rest…
Recipe Reflections - November 10th, 2013
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Apple-on-Tree-75x49.jpg)
As I write this, Mother Nature is doing her darndest to make it perfectly clear that fall is here. The real fall, Read the Rest…
The End of Summer - September 10th, 2013
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Hydrangeas-75x49.jpg)
All good things must come to an end. Or so they say. And lots of people are saying it around Read the Rest…
Lazy Days of Summer? - August 26th, 2013
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Patio-Happy-Hour-75x112.jpg)
We know that we have been woefully absent from this blog the last few weeks. Thank you to our followers Read the Rest…
Amazing Creamed Corn (Trust Me!) - July 24th, 2013
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Creamed-Corn-75x49.jpg)
Since this is the third time I’ve made this recipe in just about as many weeks, I think it’s time Read the Rest…
Time for Fresh Crab - July 1st, 2013
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/Crab-Close-up-75x49.jpg)
Signs of summer are all around us. We’re experiencing an early summer here in the Pacific Northwest, and by that Read the Rest…
For the Love of Simple - June 2nd, 2013
![Roasted Chicken](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Ready-to-carve-75x55.jpg)
Simple food. It seems to be what I always gravitate to, whether I’m planning a party for 6 or just Read the Rest…
Just In Time for Mother’s Day - May 8th, 2013
![Lemon Blueberry Bread](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Lemon-Blueberry-Bread-75x75.jpg)
We had one of those impromptu sort of gatherings the other day that remind me what it’s like to be Read the Rest…
Best. Cake. Ever. - April 23rd, 2013
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Tuxedo-Cake-Mixing-Bowl-75x58.jpg)
The truth is I don’t make cakes very often. And the reasons are pretty simple. First, a big cake goes Read the Rest…
Goodbye Winter, Hello Spring - April 21st, 2013
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Winter-Daffodils-75x45.jpg)
Spring has (finally) begun to show its face here in the mountains. If you measure a winter based on snowfall, Read the Rest…
And the children shall lead us - March 25th, 2013
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Buttermilk-Pancakes-updated-75x49.jpg)
Let’s be honest here. If it weren’t for our daughter’s refusal to eat pancakes made from Bisquick when she was Read the Rest…
Ode to Dad: A Tale of Three Coconut Cream Pies - March 11th, 2013
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Dad-and-Airplane-75x50.jpg)
Last week would’ve been my dad’s 95th birthday. In his memory, and to celebrate his birthday, I decided to make Read the Rest…
A Hearty Wintertime Favorite - March 8th, 2013
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Snowy-Trees-75x111.jpg)
It’s early March. In many parts of the country, that means there are starting to be hints that spring is Read the Rest…
A Craving for Orange Rolls - March 4th, 2013
![Orange Zest](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Orange-Zest-75x56.jpg)
Sometimes it just starts with a hankering. And many times, as in this case, I really don’t even know where Read the Rest…
The Perils of Happy Hour - February 25th, 2013
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Bar-Morning-After-75x52.jpg)
Don’t let people tell you otherwise. As a host or hostess, a happy hour can actually be too happy. Don’t Read the Rest…
Simply Entertaining - February 19th, 2013
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Hostess-Avatar-75x78.jpg)
We’re sort of in recovery mode here. We started off the month with a visit from our forever friends and Read the Rest…
The Perfect Valentine’s Day Treat - February 8th, 2013
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Red-Velvet-Cupcake-75x68.jpg)
Say “I Love You” with a cupcake. I’ve spent a fair bit of time around pastries. Probably more time consuming Read the Rest…
Mac and Cheese for Grown-Ups - February 6th, 2013
![Macaroni and Cheese](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Macaroni-and-Cheese1-75x75.jpg)
This is not your kids’ mac and cheese. This is an I’m-all-grown-up, serve-me-with-wine, call-me-pasta-not-macaroni kind of dish. This is a Read the Rest…
A Comfort Food Classic - January 28th, 2013
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Chicken-Potpie-single-75x51.jpg)
Comfort food. Even the name conjures up a happy place. It’s the kind of food we want to eat when Read the Rest…
To Brine or not to Brine - January 24th, 2013
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Brined-Pork-Chop1-75x49.jpg)
We tend to be late adopters in general. You’ll probably never hear about some new technique or gadget here first. Read the Rest…
Chili, redux - January 22nd, 2013
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Chili-updated-75x75.jpg)
It’s not that I’m really a perfectionist, but I don’t like making mistakes. I mean, really, who does? But I Read the Rest…
Our sweet addiction - January 13th, 2013
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Caramel-Corn-75x116.jpg)
First there was Cracker Jacks. Followed by Fiddle Faddle. And then Kettle Corn. A distinct evolutionary track of my caramel Read the Rest…
The Season of Entertaining - January 8th, 2013
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Weekend-Meal-Planner-75x104.jpg)
There is a season of giving. A season of hope. We all know about football season and the season of Read the Rest…
Gluten Free? - January 6th, 2013
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Hostess-Avatar-75x78.jpg)
We got this great question recently about gluten-free recipes: Jim asked: “Hey entertaining couple! In my small group of best Read the Rest…
Happy New Year! - December 31st, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Champagne-photo-class-75x116.jpg)
Tonight and tomorrow are all about reflection, anticipation, out with the old/with in the new, and celebration. Tonight we kiss Read the Rest…
Top 10 reasons to love Risotto - December 30th, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Risotto-Pan-75x58.jpg)
1. Rice and cheese. Okay, technically that’s two reasons, but it’s because this dish is a combination of rice and Read the Rest…
Short Cuts - December 9th, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Candy-plate-75x54.jpg)
Here’s how the whole thing played out. Our house is located in such a place that we were pretty sure Read the Rest…
How to be spontaneous? Plan for it! - December 6th, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Stocked-for-a-Party-75x45.jpg)
Do you ever wonder how some people can pull off spontaneity without even so much as one ruffled feather? Do Read the Rest…
Nothing Smells Like Homemade Cinnamon Rolls - November 30th, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/CinnamonRoll3-75x54.jpg)
Before there was Cinnabon’s, there was my mom. Growing up, we never bought cinnamon rolls at the mall. Our cinnamon Read the Rest…
Fun holiday garnish - November 28th, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Holiday-Cocktail-Garnish-75x49.jpg)
Last week, as we gathered at a neighbor’s house for Thanksgiving, we were thankful for the many things that our Read the Rest…
Of Celebrities and Thanksgiving Leftovers - November 23rd, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Chicken-Tortellini-Soup-75x52.jpg)
I should start by saying that I’m not one of those people that goes berserk over celebrities. While I can Read the Rest…
Life of Pi(e) - November 18th, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Pumpkin-Pie-75x47.jpg)
On Friday, I was sitting here having one of those serious “what was I thinking” moments. My family Thanksgiving get Read the Rest…
Holiday Time is Party Time! - November 14th, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Champagne2-75x68.jpg)
There are Christmas decorations in almost every store. I’m starting to see Christmas commercials on TV. And, today I heard Read the Rest…
An easy scoop ‘n serve dessert - November 12th, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Sorbet-with-Vodka-75x55.jpg)
Several years ago, we were fortunate enough to take a ski trip to Switzerland. In the land of the Alps, Read the Rest…
Minestrone Soup - November 5th, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Minestrone-Soup-75x49.jpg)
I didn’t grow up in an Italian family. Far from it, actually. Yet somehow I wandered into adulthood with this Read the Rest…
Homely fruits can make great cocktails - October 30th, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Pomegranate-Juice-Stand-75x40.jpg)
This particular drink has been served at our house on countless occasions. I can’t remember exactly when “pomegranate martini” became Read the Rest…
Candle Confessions - October 26th, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Candles-75x49.jpg)
There’s really no denying it. I’m a candle junkie. I have this ungovernable urge to buy and hoard candles in Read the Rest…
Beans in chili? There’s no debating it - October 17th, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Chili-75x49.jpg)
First, let’s be very clear what this isn’t. This is NOT a blatant attempt to incite a debate over what Read the Rest…
A Fall Favorite - October 8th, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Pumpkin-Bread-75x49.jpg)
Fall. People either love the season or they don’t. I fall into the love category. As the weather turns cool, Read the Rest…
Soup’s On! - October 8th, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Tomato-Basil-Soup-75x49.jpg)
We’ve just returned from a 3-week vacation in Turkey where, among other things, we spent a week on a boat Read the Rest…
Fresh Summer Corn! - September 12th, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Shaving-Corn-75x49.jpg)
When summer corn is in season, I just can’t resist it. When it’s sweet, local (which means cheap!) and good, Read the Rest…
Wine charms - September 9th, 2012
This is fun idea for a party. I’m always looking for something to do with that stash of vintage postcards Read the Rest…
A day in the life of a dinner party - September 4th, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/0181-75x112.jpg)
This is probably a good example of a menu that we planned when we were hungry. Like grocery shopping on Read the Rest…
‘Nuff Said - August 25th, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/Nuff-Said-75x49.jpg)
This designer has the best quotable cards. For me, this one says it all. In case you can’t read the Read the Rest…
Blackberry Cobbler - August 21st, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC_9940-small-75x49.jpg)
We all have those memories from our childhood of things we didn’t like to do. It was part of growing Read the Rest…
Blueberries are in season! - July 22nd, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC_5063_small-75x49.jpg)
Here’s the interesting thing. I wasn’t a fan of blueberries for a long time. Like most of my life. Not Read the Rest…
Yogurt Fruit Smoothies - July 21st, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC_1621-small-e1602730582763-75x113.jpg)
Recently our friends came to visit for the weekend and brought their 3 1/2 year old daughter for her first Read the Rest…
Summer’s here, it’s guacamole time! - July 5th, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC_3166_small-75x49.jpg)
It seems that everyone has a favorite recipe for guacamole. Or at least their own “special recipe.” Our daughter-in-law suggested Read the Rest…
Best French Toast Ever! - July 5th, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC_2625-small-75x49.jpg)
I learned this process of making French toast from the owner of a bed and breakfast in Portland, Oregon that Read the Rest…
Skillet Corn Bread - July 2nd, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/DSC_3115-small-e1602719623895-75x113.jpg)
Many years ago, when my husband and I were first dating, we took a weekend trip to the wine country Read the Rest…
Oatmeal Worth Getting Out Of Bed For - July 1st, 2012
![](https://www.entertainingcouple.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSC_1713-small-75x49.jpg)
This recipe will easily feed 4 – 5. Leftovers can be kept for a day or two. But be forewarned, Read the Rest…