Ancestors. We all have them. Take this common bond and use family ancestors as the theme for your holiday party this year. And—ancestors aren't just for family get-togethers anymore. Friends and co-workers will enjoy a party with a unique theme, their family.

            The first step is the invitations. Create personalized invitations with software or you can hand craft the invitations. Include a family tree with vintage photos of your family and a request that each invitee bring along copies of their favorite family photos.

            Let the creative side of you emerge when you start decorating. Trees with small photos dangling from them are great table decorations. Don't feel you have to use just your family photos. There are many online web sites that have vintage photos that you can download for free and incorporate into your designs.

            When planning your menu don't forget to use a family favorite recipe. Your guests would love to hear the story of how Aunt Annie developed her rhubarb pie recipe. For a bring-a-dish party, ask your guests to bring their family classic.

     Use the photos that your guests bring as an icebreaker. Everyone gets their fifteen minutes of fame when they explain who is in their photo and tell a short story of the event that was captured in photography.

            Bring your family to a party this year! Ancestors aren't just for scrapbooks anymore.

Cindy Sue Blair is an internationally syndicated columnist. Her articles appear in publications throughout the US, Canada and Europe. Read her blog and listen to her radio show at www.ExploreTheMidwest.com. © Cindy Sue Blair 2007