Entertaining at this time of year can be stressful and tiring.

That is, until Epicure Selections came along.

This should help. As for why Uncle Jerome still isn't speaking to Aunt Patty, well, I can't help you there...

**Epicure Selections**

One thing that parties are always in need of are dips. But have you seen the prices of them lately? I saw one yesterday that was almost $8! I don't think so...

That's why I was so pleased to find Epicure Selections.

This 100% Canadian, family-owned, woman-led company developed from Victorian Epicure Inc., founded by Sylvie Rochette.

She wanted to create "easy, healthful and delicious mealtime solutions. With an initial offering of four hand-crafted spice blends sold from her station wagon at local markets and consumer trade shows, the products’ overwhelming popularity soon prompted the creation of Epicure Selections."

The product line is sold through parties, but you can also buy them directly online.

The fantastic dip mixes allow you to prepare fresh and healthy accompaniments for fresh fruit, vegetables, etc.. You mix in 3 tbsp. of the seasoning with a cup of may and a cup of sour cream, leave it for 30 mins., and voila you've got fantastic dips that are way beyond anything you can buy off the shelf - and so much more affordable! I made 3 Onion and Cheese Chives & Bacon for parties and both were huge hits, with many requests for the recipes!

If you're making salad for your party, I highly recommend getting the Salad Dressing Mixes. I've been using the Classic Vinaigrette on not only greens, but fish, chicken and in with rice and pasta as well. Oh my, is it delicious!

If you're cooking up a storm this holiday, you'll want to get some Herbs, Spices and Blends. Not only are they fresh and interesting, but you get a beautiful jar to keep and store them in. Stock your pantry with must-have items such as Apple Pie, Beef & Steak, Fajita, etc. And for Pantry Basics, I'm using their wonderful Minced Garlic in everything. No vampires here...

Making pasta or pizza for your party? I'm l-o-v-i-n-g their Margherita Sauce. The onion, tomato and leek combination is a great way to pump up your go-to sauce.

No party is set without Sea Salt. And just look at all the varieties here! So incredible. And the grinder that you get with it is one of the best I've ever used - really smooth and easy.