Host a Spring Fling
Now that the days are getting longer and spring is in the air, I like to be the first of my friends to host a party. I always say that I love spring, but really I love the end of winter; airing out the house, doing my spring cleaning, then inviting everyone over for the first event to really announce the end of winter and the beginning of a new, fresh season. This winter I’ve stored away a few ideas that I think will make for a great time at a party.
Beverages
Recently, I heard about shrubs and have been dying to try out some recipes. In case you are new to them, shrubs are drinking vinegars made with fruit. They are tart and sweet and very concentrated; so you make a shrub, leave it in the refrigerator for a few weeks, then use just an ounce or two in a beverage. Add ice and some seltzer and you have a great spring cocktail that most of your guests may not have ever tried!
Food
Even though we often use our outside grill in the winter, not everyone has that luxury, and nothing says nice weather like the smell of food cooking over coals. I’ve been dying to try my new cook book my husband bought me from RedEnvelope’s Kitchen & Cooking Gifts page, however I like kabobs for my first party; they are simple, easy to make, and with items like brightly colored peppers or pineapple, they can be visually appealing as well as tasty. Right before the New Year, I canned a sweet chili sauce. I think this will be a great addition to the kabobs.
Fun
One of the fun parts about hosting the first party of spring is getting everyone outside. This can be a bit tough, since most of us are in the habit of hanging around inside the house after a few months of winter, so I give my friends some great reasons to go outside. Spring is all about those light winds and temperature changes, which make for great kite flying on beautiful days. I love kites and always have an assortment, but I also keep my eye out for sales on kites each year at the end of spring.
I also invested in a KanJam kit. One of my friends told me about this game, which I’m told originated in Buffalo, NY and has spread across the state. Basically, it is most easily described as trashcan Frisbee. You have two cans and the goal is to get your ball into your can to get the most points. This party will be the first time I am debuting this game, but knowing our friends, it will be a great opportunity for them to get outside, run around and be competitive.
I’m really excited to host my spring party. Will you be hosting one?
Quinn is a self-proclaimed health enthusiast. She loves being out doors and a good glass of wine. She also enjoys going running, playing soccer and going hiking with her family.
