I have friends I describe as frugal. They save money on almost everythingon food, on clothes. Its not as though theyre poor; in fact, theyre quite well-off and always seem to have plenty of money. So they can certainly afford nice things.
I really only visit them for special occasions. For everything else, we just chat over the phone. About a month ago, they asked me over for my birthday. I went, and I came back home absolutely starving.
On the morning of the day, I slipped the gift Id bought earlier into my handbag and headed off to work. At around four oclock, my friends rang to invite me to the party. So, at lunch, I just had a coffee and a couple of biscuits, thinking Id save room for the party spread. I didnt eat beforehand because, well, I was going to a party.
Anyway, I arrived at their place a bit early. I handed over my gift, wished them all the best, and jokingly mentioned I was famished, as I hadnt eaten deliberately. Of course, it was meant lightheartedly. My mate replied, alls set, not to worry.
There were six of us, plus our two hosts. When I walked into the sitting room, I realised there was no table laidthats when it clicked that theyd gone for a buffet-style do. There were no chairs, just a small sofa to squeeze onto. Frankly, after a day at work, it would have been lovely to sit around a proper table and enjoy a meal. But a buffet it was. One of the lads fashioned a little round table, loading it with snacks. This is when I almost kicked myself for having only two biscuits at lunch.
On the table sat a few small platesI even counted the slices, and, embarrassingly, Im not at all ashamed to admit it. Each plate had exactly eight slices: eight of smoked sausage (which I absolutely love), eight of cold meat, eight of cheese. There were eight slices of fresh tomato, eight of cucumber, all cut wafer-thin but arranged beautifully. Oh, and there were two tiny bowls with salads. The fruit, too, was precisely measuredone piece per person. The whole feast was topped off with a single bottle of wine. In short, tuck in and drink up, dear guests.
There I sat, chewing a bit of sausage and cheese, and my stomach was still growling. I didnt even fancy a drinkI was worried about having wine without food in me. My friend then said, Ill bring out something hot! I thought, finally, the warm foods making an appearance.
His wife brought out the hot dish: on a plate, a few chips and a fried chicken drumstick. Exactly one of each for everyone. I had to laugh, honestly. At least the cake was a decent size. All in all, we had a lovely time together, but after just an hour and a half, I found myself heading home, absolutely ravenous.
On the way back, I popped into the shop and bought myself some real food. I ended up having a proper meal at home. Thats how my friends managed to save their pennies on their guests.
Honestly, why bother to invite people over for your birthday if you cantor simply dont want tohost them properly?
