Hey gmcraft. I have hatched a plan to deal with socializing with friends over food. See if you (or anyone) thinks it is bonkers.

I have invited two (close and understanding) couples for dinner this week. My plan is for me to do all of the cooking and serving while they socialize around the kitchen - kind of a “chefs table” setup . This way, I can cook, see my friends over dinner but hopefully diffuse the awkwardness of not being able to eat or drink. Just thinking of a bunch of small tapas type plates over the evening. I’m looking forward to it since I haven’t been able to cook or socialize much recently and this kills two birds.