I have never made Beef and Brats 
and still don't know how I feel about the beef and the brats together in one pot. Dave said the he liked it - and the meat was so tender and very good - with that in mind I decided to call it a success (It's just not on my top 10 list).
The crock pot idea was so nice because at the last minute we were picking up the car at the tire shop, Abby from work, and we got home just in time to boil the noodles (while I changed clothes), ate, and then we ran out the door to a meeting. I was so thankful for that crock pot and even more thankful for the Garlic Lemon Green Beans that were leftover from Sunday...no time for Wilted Lettuce! Quick and easy, no last minute trips to the store, and no stress! Wahoo!
When I got home I decided to look over the plan for today because we have friends coming over for dinner. Whenever we have guests coming I try to plan ahead (night before) and make sure I have a plan for cooking this meal.
I checked the menu, printed my recipes, and tried to schedule my cooking so that everything get s done well and at the same time. Additionally, I checked the forecast and decided to take it outside. Our friends have five children and we have a pool so this will be a great dinner venue.
Cajun Barbeque Chicken called for the chicken to marinade at least 3-4 hours so I thawed the chicken breasts. Glad I checked.
BBQ Burgers they can be put together an hour before dinner.
Sour Cream New Potatoes look like a snap so I will get them in a pot of water ready to cook while I combine the other ingredients...toss just before serving. This too can be done the last hour.
Senora Salad is a so easy because I can make it ahead and cover. So I won't have to worry about the salad at the last minute. I decided to try to make in the morning if I find some extra time.
I didn't include any bread in this menu and like to have fresh hot rolls or bread for guests so I have a standby in the freezer for times like this. I will thaw the dough early, let is rise, and then pop it in the oven in time for warm hot rolls.
I may need a vegetable for this meal. I checked the pantry but didn't find enough of anything, so I checked the freezer. Corn was an option but I decided to worry about it later. I'll let you know what I figure out...
So I'm ready.
-Sheri