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Instead of bringing gifts for a gift exchange, ask them to bring gifts for a local children's home. Or create a mystery. On the invitation, ask them to bring a dog treat, a canned food item, and a travel accessory. Then when they arrive, let them put their items in the appropriate gift basket "animal shelter", "neighborhood food pantry", or "local nursing home". The whole time they are gathering things, they will probably be thinking "What is she going to do with these?"

If your friends love to eat, arrange a progressive dinner. Get volunteers to host a course. You initiate the idea and then get others to help you. Arrange for transportation for a large group so you can all travel together, if possible. Have the appetizer at one friend's house, the soup at the next, the salad at the third, the main course at the fourth, the dessert and coffee at the fifth. You can have more courses if more people want to participate. The main course does not need to be overwhelming either. The guests will be quite satisfied by the time they get there, so just a small serving of something exquisite will suffice.

I recently gave a party for a group of kids. It was centered on Christmas caroling. We all gathered at my house for chili and crackers before leaving. Then we caroled the neighborhood. We arranged three songs that everyone knew. Some of the children carried candles and some carried Christmas banners. After singing for a couple of hours, we returned to the house for hot chocolate and cocoa. Everyone had a delightful time. And the people who we caroled really enjoyed it as well. If you do this, make sure to carol some people who are mutual friends. It makes it fun for all. We only allowed the kids to sing the verse of "We wish you a Merry Christmas" that says "Now, Bring us some figgy pudding, and bring it right now!" to people who we knew would appreciate the humor.

So, do you feel inspired to host a party? Great! Then do so! There are many people who will sit at home lonely this Christmas and you could make the difference for them. Look around for those people when you are planning your guest list and you will be truly blessed yourself!

Learn more about this author, Vinny Knowles.
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