Party Animal
Tonight was my friend's parents's annual cookie party. Because I was feeling shy and a bit anti-social, I somehow appointed myself chief dough roller and cookie cutter. And I was grateful for the opportunity. Having a job gives me an excuse not to have to wander around and make conversation. Instead, as people wander into the kitchen, they strike up conversation with me. If I feel comfortable, I engage. If I don't, I can cover up my discomfort with activity. Perfect. Much better than my strategy of years past, which involved copious amounts of alcohol.
For me, the most difficult parties are larger affairs where everything is catered and there's nothing for me to do, make, wash up, pass around, or collect. I hate walking into a party cold. I can do it and I can do it well, but I hate it. Put me in charge of the puff pastry hors d'oeuvres, and eventually I will have spoken to at least 70% of the other guests and made at least one new friend. And your wine glasses will sparkle like cut gems.
For me, the most difficult parties are larger affairs where everything is catered and there's nothing for me to do, make, wash up, pass around, or collect. I hate walking into a party cold. I can do it and I can do it well, but I hate it. Put me in charge of the puff pastry hors d'oeuvres, and eventually I will have spoken to at least 70% of the other guests and made at least one new friend. And your wine glasses will sparkle like cut gems.