I had it all planned:
when they would all arrive
what I needed to do beforehand
how I wanted my heart to feel when they got here
Not wanting to become “the frazzled friend” I turn into when hosting a get-together, I banned myself from Pinterest and my own desire for perfect.
I wrote out a timeline and recruited help from a friend. Together we would be prepared. Simple appetizers and decorations. A few pretty touches. We could do everything ahead of time so I would be ready before anyone got there, with time to spare and room to breathe.
I wanted to feel calm and happy when friends arrived. I wanted to greet each one, face to face. I wanted to let her know, not only was she welcomed, she was wanted.
But even the simplest of plans don’t always go as planned.
A crisis at work kept my husband from getting home in time to help pick up the house clean. Traffic was horrible and my friend/co-host got stuck on the other side of town, unable to come early and help with setup. The food wasn’t ready. The kitchen was a mess. And my three hungry kids kept asking when dad would be home to take them out for pizza.
I was not calm. I was not happy. Things were not getting done, and I could feel myself coming undone…
Join me over at inCourage where I’m talking about my struggle and my shift from aiming for perfect to being fully present, mess and all. Click here to join us.
I know I’ve been pretty quiet the past few months, so if you wondered why I’ve been missing on the internet, it’s because… summer. And we’re moving! I didn’t see that last one coming but it’s consumed every bit of me. Despite the chaos, I see simplicity and goodness on the other side, and I can’t wait to get there.
Looking forward to being back in your inbox this fall, encouraging you each week! ~Renee