Welcome to My New Home: Housewarming Party

I finally had the chance to open up my new home to all my friends and family. It was nice having everyone over to see what I've been doing to the new place. Surprisingly we fit over 40+ people (including 8 babies) in the house. It was a little crowded but everyone found a little nook to hang out in. I made a bunch of food as I love feeding people. There was crab wontons, chocolate cake, rainbow jello, shrimp salad, spinach dip, pulled pork sandwiches, chinese chicken salad, mac and cheese, pigs in a blanket, and mushroom tarts. And that was just the food I made! My super wonderful friends and family made: apple dip, chicken teriyaki, chinese noodles, chili, artichoke dip, beef ribs, and sushi. It was a smorgasborg for yummy food.

I must thank a few people without whom, this party would not have been the success that it was. First, my SW, Joni and her family Dean and Evan for the numerous dishes they made. Joni made her famous noodle salad, apple dip, and decorated the most creative cake I've ever seen. She made an exact replica of my house using paper...so cute and creative. Please see the picture for that. I saved the house and it is not sitting in my craft room as inspiration. Joni also came early with Dean to help set up and Joni took all the photos for the party. She is quite the photographer and can be hired for events! Second, Joni's parents, Jon and Chiyo. Despite a long night at the casinos, Jon made his famous chili and Chiyo made her yummy artichoke dip. Both were gone at the end of the night! It makes me so happy to have become friends with them over the years. Third, Angie, my sister, for making the very alcoholic white sangria. Those who sampled it probably got a nice buzz off of the fruit. She also came over very early helping out with the ice, making drinks, rolling pigs in a blanket, etc. She even did a sweep of the house cleaning and straightening up whatever I didn't get to. Fourth, my parents, who always come through for me whenever I need them and even when I don't ask them to. My dad is as my friend says the silent helper. You never hear him as he flits around collecting trash, taking it out, putting out chairs for people, etc. Even after the party was over, he was busily trying to fix a leak in my window. My mom made the beautifully presented and tasty sushi platter, chicken teriyaki, and beef short ribs. She was so worried that people didn't see that food on the table. I assured her that everyone loved it. I must say, I have the best family. They are always so supportive and helpful. And last, Kirk, my boyfriend and other half. Even after working 80 hours in days and working on saturday, came over sat night to help out. He woke up early to get coffee and helped with all the day of cooking on sunday. He was such a great co-host mingling with everyone and making sure all the food was out. He is the best boyfriend a girl can ask for.
Thanks to everyone who came to the party as well...and for all the thoughtful gifts. My house will continue to look beautiful thanks to all the plants, giftcards, and decorations I received. I can't wait until the next Ocean houseparty!!!