Provo, UT

There’s nothing quite like snuggling up on the couch with loved ones and watching a movie on a big-screen HDTV. Even better when you have delicious snacks and desserts to munch on. That’s exactly how we spent this Sunday afternoon–but with what I jokingly refer to as our white-trash twist.

Actually, I say that in jest (although if you asked my husband he would sooner die from embarrassment than tell you he spent the afternoon lounging in a store). Here’s how it came about.

Last week my friend Tracy showed me the Sam’s Club catalog, and asked me if I’d like to attend the annual Holiday Tasting with her one day this weekend. Of course I was all for it. Each year I host a Christmas Eve gathering, and not being one to cook I love to serve delicious pre-made appetizers, entrees, and desserts. So we thought this would be a good way to start the menu planning.

I had mentioned it to my 3-year-old, and having the sweet tooth that she does we decided to give it a preview yesterday. She loved sampling the delicious desserts (some of which have already made it into my freezer for the big holiday gathering, along with a huge package of lobster ravioli–yum). When she found out I was meeting Tracy there today she begged to come. I couldn’t say no, and then she roped daddy into joining us, too.

Well, I just happened to point out the living room furniture set up with a 52″ TV on a console/fireplace combo, and that’s where I lost them. They settled down to watch Wall-E while Tracy and I wandered around tasting. I brought small samples of chicken egg rolls, tequila lime chicken wings, rib roast, ham and cheese frittata, lobster bisque, and of course desserts back to them. My daughter absolutely loved the crème puffs, and chocolate triple-layered cheesecake. I mean, who wouldn’t! And I’ll tell you, it’s never been so easy to keep track of my family in a store–I think ALL stores should have this kind of set up!

I should mention we weren’t the only ones with this agenda. There were a few dads and grandpas asleep on recliners, and an entire family hanging out on leather sofas watching Elf (although “their” TV was only 42″). It actually turned out to be kind of a fun afternoon. In fact, I think I’ll make it an annual tradition (the tasting, not the lounging). And while it wasn’t quite the trip to Bonneville Salt Flats my husband hoped for (maybe next weekend!) at least we know what’s on the menu for Christmas Eve!

If you go:
Sam’s Club hosts a Holiday Tasting each year the weekend before Thanksgiving. You don’t need a membership to sample and shop, but you do need one to buy. If you don’t have a membership you can usually track down a one-day shopping pass with a ten percent surcharge. Check www.samsclub.com for your local store.