A Break in the Holiday Madness

Let's face it - you and your friends are dead-tired from holiday shopping. You decided to head out on Black Friday to catch the sales and now you regret it. The crowds have never seemed so dense as your overloaded arms tried to push through them to get that one last perfect gift. Your feet are screaming from standing in one too many lines, and your patience...well, what's that?

Whether your mission's accomplished or you're ready to raise the white flag, it's time for the gang to head home and just share a few laughs in the peace and quiet of your home. The last thing you want to do at this point is stand on your feet cooking in the kitchen. You're also not ready to face a turkey sandwich after yesterday's feast. You need a menu that is fresh and requires little work to prepare, that can fill your hungry stomachs and soothe your frazzled souls. Add a few comforting beverages to take the edge off your weary minds and you're ready to sit back and congratulate one another for surviving today's holiday frenzy.

Black Friday Comfort Supper

Hot Apple Toddy

Tray of Assorted Cheeses, Sliced Ripe Pears and Crusty French Bread

Pork Tenderloin with Apples

Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes

Salad with Favorite Dressing (use pre-washed salad and purchased dressing)

Quick and Easy Spice Cake with Vanilla Ice Cream

Advance Preparation Schedule

• One week before - Prepare and refrigerate potatoes.
• One week before - Bake and freeze spice cake.
• Day before - Prepare and refrigerate cider.
• Morning before shopping - Prepare pork in crock-pot and set to cook.

Upon Arriving Home

• Heat and serve cider.
• Lay out cheeses, pears and bread on tray and serve.
• Reheat potatoes.
• Toss salad with dressing.
• Serve supper.
• While eating supper, reheat spice cake.
• Serve cake and ice cream.
• Relax...