By Misty Thompson of Burlap and Beestings
In the fall, there are few things in Arkansas that you can find more fun than Razorback tailgating. The atmosphere, the spirit and the fans really capture the best in Hog season. However, there comes a time in one’s life *clears throat* when the cost of babysitters, travel, the effort to dress to impress and the next day hangover just don’t cut it.
So, I’m going to provide a few tips for the next best thing: The Homegate.
- Keep it simple. You don’t want to be more stressed out than you already will be once the game starts. Find recipes that are easy and, if possible, prepare some ahead of time.
- Keep it bite-sized. Let’s face it, it’s the Razorbacks. You WILL jump out of your seat a few times and more than likely yell at the TV. You don’t want to be too full to be able to jump out of your seat or have an entire meal spilled on your floor.
- Prepare to intercept interruptions. If you are homegating, more than likely your kids are home too. Pick up the latest kid flick at Redbox, and stock up on activities, games and books to ensure your little Hog fans will have hours to kill all by themselves. (You should probably check on them during commercials though.)
- Invest in essential Hogware. It may sound silly, but you’ll use this way more than that china you registered for. It’s ALMOST as essential as that perfect Hog shirt.
- Invite close friends. This goes back to keeping it simple and being comfortable in your own home. This way you’ll feel less like you have to entertain guests and more like you can spend time enjoying the game.
- Have plenty of adult beverages. No one wants to stop watching the game to go on a beer run.
One homegating staple for my family is cheese dip. It’s super easy, and everyone likes it. (Also, did you know that cheese dip originated in Arkansas?)
- 1 lb Velveeta Mexican cheese
- 12 ounces cream cheese
- 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 bunch green onion, tops, chopped
- 4 jalapenos, seeded and chopped
- 2 -3 fresh garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 bunch cilantro, chopped
- black pepper to taste
- Melt cheese in a crock pot, stove top or microwave. Stir in additional ingredients.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Misty is a full-time working wife and mom. She lives in Central Arkansas with her husband and two boys. After attending Arkansas Women Bloggers Conference last year, she decided to start a “grown-up blog” but struggles to keep up with it and the projects in her daily life. Follow her attempts at www.burlapandbeestings.com.