We had an Impromptu Dinner Club last weekend with just one other couple. When I learned I was off on Wednesday, I told Paul he could invite friends over. The problem was that I had already put together a menu and really didn't want to change it. Even though I had planned to have sweet potatoes and baked beans, it occurred to me that I wasn't truly taking advantage of the summer weather and the traditions it brings. So I had changed the menu. And now, I needed to add two more to the table. I was nervous. Would they appreciate my more simple, laid-back menu than what I normally serve guests?

I made baked beans, dilled potato salad, and Havarti-tomato grilled cheese. Dessert was homemade ice cream sandwiches. Bless their hearts, Tony and Fely were kind and gracious about the meal. They said simple fare was just fine and seemed pleased to learn that good baked beans require just a few adjustments. We were happy to have them over as they are very entertaining, and Fely did an excellent job breaking in the piano. Plus, she loaned us some music books! We should just say sorry to our neighbors now. We know the piano can be heard by passersby on the sidewalk.

By the way, I use Arnold Healthy Multi-grain Bread with 4 grams of fiber per slice compared to a typical 3 grams or less. I also love the seeds that top the crust. It looks good and tastes like the sesame seed hamburger buns my mom used to buy when I was a kid. There were two sandwich halves left. (Arnold bread slices are a bit larger than average bread.) Ironically, my dad stopped by. He happily took them for lunch the following day.