When I looked at my cell phone the display announced a message from Heather. Heather and I have been church family for two decades. She brings meals to my home in trying seasons, speaks wisdom into my life in the church parking lot, and faithfully holds me up in moments when the prayers of the … Continue reading TEA & TA-TA’S
STEP 1: INVITE! Step 1 is not cleaning your house, redecorating your dining room, or taking a cooking class. It is simply inviting one, two, or ten people to your home whom you’d like to know better. Preparing a place for loved ones at your table begins with being willing to let people see you, … Continue reading 8 ESSENTIAL STEPS TO CREATING A PLACE OF BELONGING AT YOUR TABLE
Today I hosted a bridal shower for one of my Monday Night Girls. She is also a young woman who I absolutely adore. Colorful flowers in mason jars decorated my patio, beautiful china was set on the table, and champagne flutes were filled with fresh fruit and sparkling Prosecco. It was a delightful afternoon of … Continue reading ENTERTAINING AND HOSPITALITY ARE NOT SYNONYMOUS
"Can I ask you all of my ignorant questions?" This question has opened up some of my favorite conversations with co-workers at the hospice where I work as a bereavement coordinator. I have lived in the same house for 17 years. I have lived in the same community for 27 years. I have attended the … Continue reading CREATING SAFE SPACE TO ASK IGNORANT QUESTIONS
Today is a great day. The sun is shining, the sky is a brilliant blue, and my family is getting ready to participate in Opening Ceremonies with our community little league. This is our 15th consecutive season, and probably our last. I've watched all three of my boys, and their friends, grow up at this … Continue reading PEANUT BUTTER & BANANA MUFFINS
"When you're caught up in a new recipe, it's easy to forget even the most obvious cooking tricks and tips. But memorize these, and you'll always have success in the kitchen." - Food Network Kitchen "Always" having success in the kitchen seems like a big promise, but nevertheless there is a lot of helpful advice … Continue reading COMMON SENSE COOKING TIPS
"I’ve done the research & my findings are extremely consistent: if you want to make people happy immediately upon entering your (home), put together an egregiously large cheese board. There are no rules, of course, but I usually start with three cheeses, one soft. Three pickle-y/olive-y things, three kinds of cured meats, two or three … Continue reading PLATTERS & BOARDS
