Take One Down and Pass It Around.

Photo by Dawn Huczek

As far back as I can remember, my parents have entertained in their home.

Growing up, I knew the tell-tale signs that company was on its way.

My mom had a standard "hospitality meal" that she served on Sunday nights after church when company came to the house. (Think sloppy joes, chips, vegetables, pickles, and cookies).

Mom always dabbed a few drops of scented oil on the light bulb ring--which thereafter became known as the "company smell"--and the whole family was given instructions on our roles for the evening.

Some of my clearest and fondest childhood memories resolve around Sunday nights.

Mom and Dad still entertain. And recently, they've added a game to the mix that I want to pass along to you. At some point during the evening, Mom passes a bowl of M&Ms around the circle of guests and instructs everyone to take a small handful. After the bowl has completed the rounds, she explains that each color M&M represents something the guest will have to tell about himself/herself.

For instance:

Blue = favorite book
Red = favorite food
Yellow = favorite hobby
Green = favorite place
Brown = item for which to be thankful

Depending on the number of M&Ms each person took from the bowl, he/she will have to share a corresponding number of answers to the question.

The goal of hospitality is simple. Get to know your guests. And there's no better way than with a bowl of candy . . .