My thrifty friends invited me to a birthday party. I came home hungry.
I have a group of friends Ive come to call frugal. They save money on nearly everythingfrom food to clothing. Its not as though theyre struggling financially; in fact, theyre rather well-off and always seem to have cash to spare. They could easily afford to splash out if they wanted to.
I only ever visit them when theres something to celebrate. Otherwise, we stick to phone calls. About a month ago, I received an invitation to a birthday gathering. I went, and let me tell you, I returned home absolutely famished.
That morning, I tucked the present Id bought into my handbag and headed to work. My friends asked me to arrive at four, so I skipped a proper lunch and settled for a cup of tea and two shortbread biscuits during my break. I thought, why bother eating now when Ill be well-fed at a party later?
I made it to their house on time, handed over the present, and wished them all the usual happiness and good health. Laughing, I mentioned I was ravenousI’d purposely saved my appetite. My friend responded, Dont worry, everythings ready! with a wink.
There were six guests in addition to our hosts. When I walked into the living room, I noticed there was no dining table in sightjust a small sofa with barely any room for us eight. Id been hoping for a proper hearty meal, especially after work, but it looked more like a buffet affair. Fine, I thought, a buffet can still be nice.
My hostess had set out a tiny round table with all the food. And I counted the slicesno shame in admitting it! Each plate had precisely eight pieces: eight slices of cold smoked sausage (which I adore), eight slices of cold meat, and eight slices of cheddar. There were eight thin slices each of fresh tomatoes and cucumber, all arranged with care. Two miniature bowls contained equally modest salads. Even the fruit was portioned outexactly enough for eight people. To top off this rather generous spread, there was a single bottle of wine. The message was clear: eat and drink, dear guests, but mind the portions.
I sat there nibbling my sausage and cheddar, feeling rather unsatisfied. I didn’t even dare have much wine, worried it might hit my empty stomach. Then my friend announced, Ill bring out something hot! Hope flickeredI could finally eat something substantial. Out came the hot food.
Each person got one small roast potato and a single baked chicken drumstick. I nearly burst out laughingwhat a sight. At least the birthday cake was regular-sized.
All in all, the party itself was fun. But after an hour and a half, I headed home, completely starving.
I popped into the local shop and picked up some bits for supper. Back at home, I finally had a proper meal. My friends definitely kept their costs down when it came to feeding their guests.
I cant help but wonderwhy invite people to celebrate a birthday if you arent willing or able to host them properly?
