Did Tigers Eat Your Food?

For several years I have dreamed about hosting a neighborhood open house, and wondered about the best way to make that happen. This month, after praying about it for a while and talking with my husband, we just planned it. I hand-delivered invitations last week to the ten or so houses in our circle. Last night I made two batches of apple crisp, and draped the kitchen table with a vibrant red cloth and some decorations. This morning I brewed coffee, and plugged in the crockpot with hot apple cider.

Holding hands, Mark and I prayed together in the sunny living room, and then we relaxed in the clean calm house. Jazz played in the background, Mark relaxed on the computer, and we wondered if anyone would have time to stop by on this busy Christmas shopping day. Half an hour later, we were thrilled to welcome some neighbors into our home. We drank coffee for hours and talked of life, pets, family and recipes. My children strolled in and out of the living room, joining us for conversations. Second and third cups of coffee were poured and we all talked some more. It was a smaller turnout due to the holidays, but it was wonderful. What lovely people our neighbors are! Thank you, God, for that chance to enjoy them in a sunny warm home.

Tonight my daughter romps with fifteen or sixteen girls her age for her 13th birthday party. We are having a Clue mystery themed costume party, along with cake and a movie. Watch for girls in fluffy pink boas or Sherlock Holmes hats, and ballerinas and models to traipse up our steps tonight.

Three year old Daniel prayed for dinner last night.
Thank you all of us not gone.
Thank you all of us not broke. 
Thank you a [for] food.
Thank you tigers not eat our food. 
Thank you all of that,
M’amen.