The Grella family of Methuen, Massachusetts opened their home (and bocce court) to the high bidders on the auction item. It included dinner for eight, a set of Perfetta balls, autographed copies of The Joy of Bocce, and bocce instruction from yours truly.

The Grellas and I invite you to copy the model for this event. Above = first we put out some cheese and fruit. Click the photo to read the ezine issue describing the bocce auction.

Ah, yes...beverages.

Copy the model for this event and outdo us. This one benefited a local YMCA and the winning bid topped out at $600.

Yes, that's lobster on the salad. Do the Grellas know how to throw a party or what?

The guests arrived at 4:00 PM, got acquainted with the hosts, had some wine and hors d'oeuvres in the courtyard under the pergola, then assembled on the court for a primer on how to play bocce.

Delmonico steaks on the wood-fired outdoor brick oven (using apple wood from a local orchard).

We give a little instruction on how to play.

After a brief demonstration, the games began. We separated the eight guests into two teams of four and "got right after it." Although some had never played before, they were quick studies and I'm sure we made some new converts.

We dine. We play some bocce. We have drinks and dessert. We enjoy each other's company and we help a worthy charity.