Labor day means the end of summer vacations and the beginning of school, committee meetings, schedules, and more meetings. We know that after the first cool evenings we will begin to plan Thanksgiving lists and look at new fabric for redoing a room in the house. That's why this last family day of the summer is important and we thought we'd make it a meal to remember, but one that you can make ahead of time.
We think of Labor day as a day of games and lazing around with family and friends. Why not invite them over for lunch so that by dinner you are cleaned up and relaxing? This lunch is perfect for the patio with friends seated under umbrellas, or next to the lake or even on your apartment balcony with the air-conditioning near by. If you are a family tied to the labor movement, you may want to include pictures form the history of labor or past labor day picnics as part of the decoration. Use flowers that can be planted later like mums in colors that make the tables radiate and foreshadow the coming of fall. Centerpieces can include the flowers in baskets with moss and twigs as well as greenery from your bushes. Use brightly colored plates and large stems for glasses. Roses in small crystal bowls with name plates and your favorite flowery china and good crystal will paint another picture but a lovely one.
Labor day means games for the children and adult friends. Think of how to incorporate them into the day. You can have swimming races if the pool is near by, or three legged races in the meadow. Egg on spoon races are also fun, or child on shoulder races make for memories. No races? Try a long walk before or after lunch. The entire family can enjoy that and bring back leaves and twigs. Give each child a film loaded camera to take pictures and have them developed and sent to your guests. You'll be surprised what the children see. Now for our lunch. This menu is great for adults and children alike. For those children who do not eat what we call "real food', how about making some P&J sandwiches with vegetable sticks? Their mother will thank you. But be prepared, many children will pass up the tried and true for this beautiful buffet. Do not put out food until you are about to serve it, especially if it is hot outside. You can place the platters on a bed of ice to keep cold, but guard against insects and the heat. Bring iced tea, iced coffee, home made lemonade, sparkling water with citrus slices, and soda for the children. Don't forget wipes for every one. Now make up your guest list and start planning a lovely lunch.
(for the recipes, click on The Recipes or click on the individual recipe above)
