Building Relationships and Making Memories

When the kids were growing up, we entertained alot. It was always fun and easy to have friends over for bbq's and swim parties. We also hosted many church youth functions in our home and what seems like hundreds of family functions. For one reason or another however, we haven't entertained much in the last 4-5 years. I'm sure it's because now since the kids are grown, we: 1) travel more 2) I've worked more than I ever have, so recently when some friends invited themselves over for a get together, I was excited and up for the challenge.

While I say we entertained often, I'm in no way saying I was the perfect hostess. In fact, I was many times a stressed out hostess and I know our guests picked up on it too. Everything had to be so perfect, I wore myself out even before the party started. My husband worked so much that I bore the burden myself and my biggest mistake was thinking I could do it all. Well, it's taken me years to "unwind" but now I think I've got the hang of it and I'm really enjoying opening up our home to family and friends. One important thing I've learned is to let your guests be involved. Let them help you with the preparations and if they want to bring food or dessert to the party, GREAT!

I can honestly say that blogging has helped me in this area of my life. I have read many posts stressing the fact that truly, people don't care what your baseboards look like or if you've vacuumed the house or not, what's important is that when you open up your home, you are building friendships and making wonderful, lasting memories. It's taken me years, but I get it now. I finally get it! I'm so happy to say that over the last few years I've enjoyed each and every time we've had company and I can now say I know they've enjoyed it just as much.

It's been a learning process for me but I have made a hugh effort to "unwind" and be in the moment more. I can't tell you how many opportunities I've let pass by because I felt my home wasn't in "perfect" shape. Truth is, it never is and it never will be. Life is short and I don't want to let opportunities pass me by anymore. I'm all for making the wonderful, lasting memories and relationships!

Last night was fun, relaxing, stress free, and now full of memories. When it got dark, we even took the time to sit out by the pool and gaze at the stars! After all these years, I think I've got the hang of it!










From looking at the photos, you might think "it doesn't look stress free or relaxing to me. It looks like alot of work!" Yes, anytime you have company, it's work, but the secret is I don't stress over it like in the past. I was able to set a nice table and add the special touches because for once I had the time and I now have my husband's help! What got done, got done, and what didn't, didn't! I also let our friends bring part of the meal with them. It made all the difference in the world.

Good Ol' Maxine

It Was A Good Day All Around

I started out the day Friday on the right foot, or should I say feet! I went walking with Howard and his walking buddies. We met at 7am and walked for a full hour. Boy does the time fly when you're not walking alone. Today they decided to meet at 6am to avoid the heat. I wasn't about to walk that early so I walked later. All I can say is that it was hot and boring. I think I may need to rethink my decision to sleep in. It's way more fun with them!

When we got home Friday from our walk, I decided to start cleaning out the filing cabinet in the garage. When Howard retired a few years ago, he brought home a 4-drawer filing cabinet that we put in the office closet. Not needing 2 filing cabinets, I've been wanting to consolidate everything into the large one in the closet. Friday was the day!

Besides tax info and papers that we need to keep, I had tons of old letters and cards in the filing cabinet, as well as piles and piles of old college papers and notes. I debated on keeping them, but in the end, I ripped them all up and threw them away. I filled the entire trash can! Throwing all of my college stuff away really tugged at my heart but I knew there was no logical reason to hang onto it. It was a weird feeling tossing it all away though. It made me sad and I felt that now that part of my life is gone forever. Now I have no record of that time in my life ever happening, other than report cards. As a student I kept great notes and took such pride in my education so I hated to see all of it go in the trash, but on the other hand, what was I saving it for? Saving it so that my kids could just throw it away when I'm gone? I actually saved them ALOT of work!

While I was at it, I cleaned out a dresser and other areas of the garage, making piles to be donated. I put Jake in a big comfy chair so that he could be outside with me the whole time. He loved it and was as content as can be. I hate to keep him couped up in the house all the time and as long as he can be with momma, he's a happy boy!

We had lunch with some friends today who invited themselves to our house for dinner Monday night. Yes, they invited themselves, but it's ok! One of the couples owns a restaurant and they are always so generous with us. Believe me, it's our turn!

I guess I should now get busy cleaning the inside of the house!

It's Friday

And I'm nosy...

So here's the question: Do you like watermelon, and if you do, do you put salt on it when you eat it? I know to much salt isn't good for you but I can't eat watermelon without it. Salt just brings out the flavor.


So delicious!

You Just Never Know...

I was so surprised to read that Al and Tipper Gore are separating after 40 years of marriage...


I wouldn't have been so surprised if I had read that it were these 2 instead...


You just never know do you!?

Photo Resolution 2010 and Wordless Wednesday

21/52:


22/52:

Remember...

What ever your plans today, take a minute to remember our members of the US military...past, present, and future, those who have served or will make the choice to serve.

We applaud you, we appreciate you, and most certainly, we thank you!