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Conversation at the breakfast table buzzes all around you, with nary a word landing inside your mind. You tune out Dad’s comments on the latest stock prices, and Junior crowing about his home run at the big game. As you sit there with your chin propped up on your hands, you are oblivious to the glare from your mother. Elbows on the table are bad manners, but you can’t worry about etiquette now.

You just stare at the calendar on the opposite wall. The one with the great big circle around Saturday night, only five days away!

What are you and the gang going to do?

You’ve been to the roller rink so much you busted the back wheel on your skate, so that’s out. Forget the soda fountain. Your crowd ends up there almost every weekend.

There must be some different activity that everyone would enjoy?

You snap back into the present when your view of the calendar is cut off by the picture of a triumphant young lady wearing an apron. She’s surrounded by two cute, well-groomed guys. Leaning back, you blink to get a better look. Mother is holding a booklet in front of your face. It’s called “Teen-Time Cooking with Carnation.”

“Why don’t you invite your friends over for a little get together,” she suggests. “You could cook something for them.”

“But mother,” you protest. “Except for that Knox Lemon Chiffon Pie I helped you with at Christmas, I’ve never cooked anything.”

“Here’s your chance,” she countered. “This booklet will help.”

You take it from her and open it.

The first page is very encouraging. It’s all about a girl like you who doesn’t know much about running a household, yet she soon may have a home of her own.

They had a slogan that makes you smile. “Kissing don’t last— cookery do!” Could truer words have ever been spoken?

It also said, before you get started you need to learn a few “rules of the road.”

Safety is the most important thing to keep in mind at all times. Plus, don’t forget your apron!

Yay! Who knew washing the dishes would be so much fun? Just follow an orderly system!

Establish proper shopping habits now. Make sure Carnation Evaporated Milk is high on your list!

You have a decision to make when Nancy, Alan and Jimmy come over. Should you all go “South of the Border,” or have a taste of Italy?

Or would a good old fashion Chili Dog hit the spot?

Maybe a picnic outside instead, only try a new twist on an old favorite. Who wants a hamburger on a bun, when you can put it on a stick!

The key to a successful outing, is a well packed hamper. Especially one filled with chocolate brownies! Yum!

Shoot. Jimmy is out of town for the weekend, visiting his aunt Mabel on the coast. You don’t wanna be a “Sad Susie,” but what should you do?

What you won’t do is sit here and feel sorry for yourself! You will follow this advice and give Nancy a call. While you both enjoy your tuna salad, think about scaring up some new male company!

Oh dear. Throwing such a shindig is expensive. Your allowance is stretched thin!

Here’s a solution! Make your own ice cream or fudge!

You’re going to do it! Host your first party! Before you get on your rotary phone to dial up all your friends, you follow this checklist!

Dad stopped by the record store and brought home a few 33 1/3 RPM discs to play during the event. The food is prepared. Now you just need to search your closet for the perfect dress!

Wonderful news. Jimmy’s visit with his aunt got postponed, so he’s free to come after all! He loves potato salad. Good thing you have some ready.

You’ll include supper and dessert on the menu!

The party is a success! Jimmy is so happy and you are too! You are well on your way to a successful cooking future, thanks to Carnation!

And we had an enjoyable visit to mid-century dating, thanks to GVS. Glorious Vintage Stuff!