Celebrating the Holidays with your Neighbors

We live on a street where 90% of our neighbors are either retired or without kids. So you would think we would be the outsiders. To the contrary, we are right in the middle of all the action. My husband and I made the conscious decision to get to know the people around us and include them in our lives. For the past two years we have had a Halloween costume party and I have to tell you, the retired folks get into it more than us young and crazy kids. Ha! Their costumes are always the best and several of them stay to the wee hours of the morning. We are very fortunate and happy to have such great neighbors and friends.

So I'm excited to say our neighbor across the street is hosting the 1st Annual Christmas Block Party. I think she is doing a great job managing the whole thing. With so many people involved (I think 18 houses) here is how she is keeping it simple and fun.... 2 Easy Steps

STEP 1
She sent out a cute flyer saying Santa Claus is coming to our Neighbor for a Party(which her husband will dress up for an appearance). Here is what she asked the group's preference:

• Potluck or Progressive Style
• Dec 13th or Dec 20th
• How Many Attending
• Please return the flyer to the basket on the front porch by Dec 2nd

She received 9 "yes" responses (21 people). I think is great for the first time, since most of us only know our next door neighbors, not everyone on the street.

So the party will be a combination of Potluck and Progressive.

• Appetizers and Cocktails - at the Host's Home
• Pot Luck - at another Neighbor's Home
  
• Dessert and After Dinner Drinks- at our Home...we were so happy they asked us to be one of the homes

STEP 2
Follow up calls to all the "yes" guests - she asked each neighbor to pick a food category, making sure there were no duplicates or missed items.

• Main Dish - ie: Meat, Pasta
  
• Side Dish (Hot) - ie: Vegetable, Starch, Casserole
  
• Side Dish (Cold) - ie: Salad, fruit
  
• Dessert