This time of year presents an endless stream of parties and gatherings–from office parties to neighborhood caroling to the big feasts. Economic considerations have changed many of these parties from being restaurant gatherings to being hosted in homes or offices. In this case, guests often pitch in to throw the party by bringing a dish to share. But what do you do when you have no energy to cook? Rather than sitting out (or attending a party, but feeling guilty because you didn’t bring food to pass), there are creative ways to contribute to a pot-luck or other gathering, without sapping your energy.

1) Provide disposables. Other guests may be excited at the prospect of cooking for days, dragging out old family recipes and visiting three stores to gather ingredients. However, few people are thrilled to buy cups, plates, napkins and silverware. In fact, this is an often-overlooked necessity for holiday gatherings. By bringing disposables, you provide a critical element. Plus, it usually requires a single trip to a party store, and is often less cumbersome to transport than food. And, if you have storage space in your home, volunteer to bring disposables to every party. This way, you could order in bulk (and have your shipment delivered) and always have disposables on hand, saving you a trip to the store each time there’s a party.
2) Co-ordinate beverages. Potluck parties are usually BYOB. However, non-alcoholic drinks and mixers fall by the wayside, leaving people to chose between drinking alcohol and drinking nothing. Offer to supply a fun assortment of sparkling and still waters, juices and sodas. Have them delivered chilled to the party and you’ll be the star of the occasion. Bonus points if you deliver ice, as well!
3) Bring ingredients for a dish to be made during the party. A fun activity is to have party guests communally prepare part of the meal. Choose a simple recipe, such as seven layer dip or puffed rice treats, and bring the ingredients. Print out several copies of the recipe and recruit party guests to join in the fun. Not only are you providing food AND an activity, but it’s a good way to explain how your condition may impact your energy, but doesn’t impact your fun.
4) Provide music. Collect a list of party-goers’ favorite artists, and download them onto your iPod. Or create a holiday mix tape of seasonal tunes. Light music playing at the beginning of any party relaxes guests, and opens them up to conversation. And at the end of the party, you’ll provide a soundtrack for dancing–or sing-alongs!
5) Let the store do the work for you. Everybody, regardless of energy level or ability, brings store-bought treats to potlucks. Take it easy on yourself and buy a pre-arranged platter of fruits, vegetables or cookies. Serve with a smile!
Article written by Jill Houk, © 2008 butyoudontlooksick.com
Chef Jill Houk is co-owner of Centered Chef Food Studios in Chicago. Centered Chef provides personal chef and catering services to clients eating to increase their health, and cook for clients with fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthitis, as well as many other disease states. Chef Jill and her team are dedicated to creating delicious food that is packed with nutrients and free from harmful ingredients. Visit them on the web at www.centeredchef.com.