The Reluctant Hostess

Yep. That's me. It is sad to admit, but lately I have noticed a total lack of enthusiasm on my part for hosting get-togethers. Strange, since I used to love it!  I used to view it as a chance to use a little creativity and set the stage for a terrific event.

Seems the weather today is in keeping with this post. Want to come over tonight for a glass of wine on the deck?

Here are some more inviting settings... this one is perfect for the Mother's Day Dinner I host annually.

On a beautiful Fall afternoon outside...this one would be great:

What would make the PERFECT party?!?  I know that I am not the only one that gets hung up on that P word when having people over. I would have no problem getting the room beautiful and setting the mood, but can YOU bring the food?

I was reminded earlier today that extending oneself through hospitality is about CONNECTION not perfection. I stumbled across a blog post about the book The Reluctant Entertainer by Sandy Coughlin.  Kristin over at We are THAT Family reviewed the 10 Commandments of Hospitality as outlined by Ms. Coughlin, and I wanted to share the ones that I found most meaningful....and the ones I need to remember as the holidays approach.

Commandment 1

Hospitality is not about you. It’s about making others feel warm and welcome.

Commandment 4

Avoid perfectionism. Put fear aside-it’s a robber of anything good.

Commandment 8

Be creative. Use what you have. Keep things simple.

Commandment 10

Life impact is everything. Experience intimacy and meaning in sharing a meal and gleaning from other’s lives.

Here's to the season ahead with all of its beauty and the many chances to be with the ones we care most about. May we all open our homes and hearts and bravely engage in hospitality, always remembering to keep things simple and meaningful as a gift to ourselves and those we love.