The Beach Party

With the days getting hotter and hotter, you might be in the mood to hit the beach. So why not host a beach party? It's really quite simple... Err, well... It's quite simple in Maine. If you live in a landlocked state like... oh, let's say – Nebraska – a beach party might also involve the installation of a swimming pool, a couple of truckloads of sand, some shattered nerves, and probably the eventual purchase of a couple of plane tickets to a coastal state... But assuming that you don't live in Nebraska, a beach party is a fun and easy summer party idea. And today, I'll offer you a few tips that should make the experience even more enjoyable.

• Don't over think the menu. It's a beach party! Sure, it might be fun to have a seven-course dinner on the beach. But unless you intend to bring a refrigerator along with you, I think it's best to stick with the basics – some sandwiches, a salad or two, and a few dozen cookies.
• Also, keep in mind that beach parties are meant to be fun and lighthearted. So, it is the perfect time to break out that “Kiss the Cook” barbecue apron, t-shirt, or baseball cap. It is not, however, the time to break out that “Kiss the Cook” speedo...
• Stock up on beer, ketchup, and toilet paper.
• Hire a lifeguard. Aside from the fact that you don't want anyone to get hurt at your beach party, a lifeguard makes a great beach party decoration! Especially when that lifeguard looks like someone from the cast of “Baywatch,” if you know what I mean...
• And lastly, DON'T FORGET THE SUNSCREEN! Trust me – if you've ever thought that a leg of lamb smells a little funky when it's overcooked, try sitting next to all 300-pounds of sunburnt Uncle Larry the next time you're driving the 30 minutes home from the beach... DON'T FORGET THE SUNSCREEN!