My husband has been a team leader for a production plant for the past two years. During that time, he’s worked both second, and most recently, third shift. He had the opportunity to jump ship and come on board with my company and took it. On Monday, he starts his new job, which will be during first shift, with my company. We are all very excited about the chance of being a normal family again.
My husband decided to throw together a party of both friends from his current employer and friends we’ve made through my work. Now, you have to understand that my idea of a party is very low-key. Beer, maybe some wine (but not usually), easy-peasy food to make, nothing fancy. I stress about these events anyway, so I have been making a concerted effort to reign things in and lower my stress levels. I like entertaining but with people who are just as low-key and low-maintenance as I am. ,
So how to instantly increase your stress levels in a matter of seconds? Your boss accepts your invitation and is going to bring his family. I got the brilliant idea yesterday to invite my boss. He lives 40 miles away in a house that is immaculate – no spots in the carpet, no dents or marks on the walls, perfectly decorated, huge. My house? It’s clean but definitely used. With two big dogs and two kids, the hardwood floors have seen better days, we’re actively considering replacing the carpet downstairs, the walls are in desperate need of spackle – you catch my drift. HS!! When I got his note, my blood pressure immediately spiked. He’s a spirits drinker, and I have none in the house. He’s extremely observant, and my house, again while clean, definitely needs some TLC. Damn. I like my boss; he’s been very good to me and is very easy to get along with – but it’s my boss…in. my. house!!
So, do I go out and get his favorite types of liquors? Anyone have any great, easy but more high-brow appetizers or knock-out party dishes that they would recommend? Because I’m going to have to start cleaning the house tonight…and the party’s on Saturday. Maybe I can find some ways to hide the dented walls and chipped paint?
Hope – I really like my boss. He's a great guy and has done wonders for me. It was nerve-wracking but I'm glad that I did it.
I will definitely give him that hug. Last night was fun as we traded gossip and just talked. We were always bound by confidentiality between our two companies and could not share anything. Now, when I come home to vent, he'll know exactly how to sympathize and vice versa!
How did it go? I'm so impressed you invited your boss in the first place. I'm sure all turned out just fine and a good time was had by all.
AND give Jim a great big congrats hug from me. E and I worked together years ago and I have to say it was a great experience. We shared a lot during those two years just because we had the same co-workers and work life. Enjoy it!
The CFO of the bank who signs my husband's paychecks came to our house for poker night (his wife & I are in the same welcome club) and I was a mess the whole week. Cleaning, buying every possible alcoholic beverage, fix-it projects…so I feel your pain. The night was a success and with almost 30 people here to play poker I spent the whole night mingling that I didn't bother to stress out. Don't forget to have fun 🙂
I think I'm doing pretty good. All of my friends are coming, and we're all a pretty amiable bunch. My husband cleaned the house tonight, so that's done. Just need to figure out what we are going to serve and prep, and he's promised to take care of most of it. Seems like a pretty easy party to me! Try me tomorrow!
OH my gosh — I would hate that! LOL. I would try to make it nice but I wouldn't pander.
Kristy – I've got the list ready to go. I'm going to use it as an excuse to finally start stocking up on spirits, which is something I've always wanted to do but never think about it. The anticipation is have the problem. I'll be better once people start arriving.
Lisa – Thanks for that! I've almost decided to let my husband plan this thing; it's his party after all! I'll monitor and prepare the food, but his party, his rules. Now, if I chant that for the next day, I may actually believe it! 😉
Your party, your rules. Do it the way you like it. Low lights, maybe a few candles. Then relax and enjoy–you're with friends!
I'd find out what his favorite drink is, buy it then stop at that. I know he's your boss, but he is just a human being. If he's easy going at work, he'll be at the party. Try to enjoy yourself and remember to breathe;-)
Thanks, Ceri! My husband says that he is going to be in charge of the food. How much do you want to bet that we make several runs to the grocery store on Saturday because he forgot something crucial?
Sarah – Chocolate-covered strawberries are always a hit! Thanks for that suggestion. I've already decided to splurge on scotch, gin, and some tequila – all three of which he drinks. And I'll even pull out the crystal old-fashion glasses we bought years ago!
Dim the lights and DEFINITELY buy his favorite drinks! Buy strawberries, then melt semi-sweet chocolate and dip the strawberries in them…
Keep the lights low and his drink filled and remember: it's about the people, not about the house!
Yikes! Stress levels to the max. I'd love to be able to give you loads of tips on parties but, unfortunately, I'm a stressball when it comes to hosting. I worry about *everything* and, luckily, my friends enjoy drinking so after a couple of hours they're too drunk to notice anything.
Hope all goes well. Good luck!