It's not what's on the table, but who's in the chairs.

No, I'm still not really unpacked. I mean, at a glance it appears so, but the garage is still full of boxes, and my toaster is missing in action. My office workroom looks like a storage unit.

No matter. I closed the office door, and decided that I was ready to entertain guests.

Mmm hmmm. I realized that since my move to the Pacific Northwest, I haven't hosted an actual dinner party for friends, if you can believe that. I've had one person over at a time, yes, but never more than that since moving up here. Last night five of us gathered around my little round dining table in my cozy dining room, and surprisingly, we all fit just fine!

We had a very simple meal- chili with all the toppings, and cornbread, while we talked and laughed nonstop. It made me realize just how much I miss entertaining friends. I am now anxious to do it again, and think I will add this to my list of New Years Resolutions. (You know, I am wild about the fresh start of a new year and all the possibilities it brings...)

It just goes to show you, it isn't at all about the size of your home, or if the chairs all match. It matters not how how fancy the meal is. It's about people, and friendship. I am feeling extra blessed today, knowing that here in my new little home, I have a circle of friends to share my heart with.

Comments

[Bella Stylebook]

So glad to hear that you and friends shared a warm and fun evening. Yeah, I'm the same way. I find it hard to get started with inviting people over. I start analyzing what it will take and if I have all the space, etc., and before I realize it I've talked myself out of doing anything at all. Then when I actually do have the event...I want to do it more and more. Funny how that works.

Have a great day!
Jan @ BellaCasa

[Pat]

Thanks for this post. I put off having people to my apt. because of my perception of lack of space. Yet I grew up in a small house and family and friends always gathered there and I don't remember anyone complaining about it being too crowded. Everyone always managed to find a space. I also love new beginnings, so in 2011, I resolve to host a dinner party at my place - and then another one! Merry Christmas, sweet Tracey.

[Betsy Derr]

I love FlyLady. She helps me remember not to live in a state of CHAOS; Can't Have Anyone Over Syndrome! Having people over forces me to keep the house clean!

[Christine]

Ahhhhh......nice!

[Kim]

I too love the New Year and the possibility of GREAT things for the year..... How wonderful you were able to show off your new home....

[Cheryl]

So happy that you had a dinner party in your cozy new home. And you are so right about it being the people and not the space, or the fanciness of the meal. Funny you mentioned the upcoming New Year. It holds endless possibilities for us all. And I still have my hat that I made when you posted yours last December 31. It's reminded me all year on how I chose to live. Wishing you happy, happy, holidays!

[The Sewing Queen of Northern NV]

I like it when the chairs don't match. Gives the feeling of individuality and a personal touch. Good friends, food, and laughter warm the heart.

[Kathryn]

It must have been a joy for your guests to gather together in the warmth and charm of your home. Some of the best parties are ones that are filled with simplicity and sincerity.

[Tammy]

I really needed to read your blogpost this morning. This week, like always, even though I say I am not going to let it get to me, the Christmas anxiety is setting in. Do I have everything? Where am I going to find the time to enjoy the pre-Christmas day magic with my family? Between working, (I am a nurse),shopping, planning, cooking, wrapping, attending school events, and unfortunately, a funeral, how am I going to get it all done? You reminded me to do what I can, forget what I can't, and make sure to enjoy the time with my boys and husband. Its going to be perfect anyway, whether everything is finished or not. As long as we are all together, thats all that truly matters. Again, thanks for the inspiration, sometimes I think we may be soul sisters. Have a Merry Christmas, sending up prayers for you and your family.