When I dream of who I want to be as a grown up (and do we ever ever realize we ARE a grownup?) there is always an essential joy for me….I want to be a great hostess. One who makes people love being in her home, who is thoughtful and wise enough to know what to do and what to not do. In my reality, I am a fumbler, NFL coaches dream of playing against opponents with folks like me on their team, prepped for the finish, she’s up she’s trying…..she fumbles….and the defensive team runs the play for a game winning touchdown!
Our home is not majestic, nor expansive, but its home for us. I try very hard to prepare meals that will be comfortable for all and welcoming. I try to allow for personal space as well as company times together.
My trip to Arkansas last week gave me three very distinct views of folks who are good at this hospitality thing. One, a friend and someone I partner wth in business dealings, always allows us to be “at home” in her family’s home. Comfortable to come and go as I need to. The food is always well done, and available. The second home I visited, was an old friend’s home. She has such an elegantly done place….always child friendly, but with a twist of something that lets you know you were special. This time it was heart shaped cinnamon waffles….so simply done and so beautifully presented over our breakfast! God’s spirit of peace lives within her and her home…I love being there! My next experience was to take me to a new level of hospitality grandeur. My dear cousin’s home in the hills of NW Arkansas is a beautiful showcase of a life well chosen. She and her husband make each visitor feel important and special. I loved her style and her thoughtfulness….her easily given hugs and more importantly her ease…there is no pretentiousness to her lovely home, simply shared joy of things she enjoys being surrounded by! I came home knowing that I adore these folks for lots of reasons, but most of all for their sharing their hearts.
Life lessons all of these experiences….for they are the exact joys I wish to share with others in my own space. …even if it is only the moment I get to share with them in passing…..an easy smile, a positive word, a shared appreciation….and a way of life that says, you’re okay as you are, you’re welcome in my life…..and God loves you!
