It is a family tradition to have a Christmas Party each year. This tradition started when we were first married. The Elliott's, Kostjuk's, Waldeck's and Us! We had fun year after year and made sweet memories. Although we moved away, Jon & I have continued to host Christmas parties. Sometimes it's with our Small Group, some years it's been a Christmas Brunch. One year everything was ready except for the arrival of our guests....then the stomach flu hit me...and Cancelling the event was the only thing left to do.
So, coming into this Christmas season, we knew we wanted to have a party ~ we just didn't know who to invite. Then we thought about our neighbors! As we walked door-to-door handing out invitations, I wondered if anyone would attend. Regardless of that concern, the planning began. I LOVE PLANNING PARTIES! Love it all! One thing that I do delegate gladly is the Activities for the evening. That's where my other (better!) half comes in! He is great at keeping a group happy. I must admit that I had a few doubts about his idea, but I went with it. Every "Holiday" party should have guests wearing their best "holiday" sweater, right? The plan was for everyone to make their very own Holiday Vests.
Fast Forward to December 17th, 7pm. Jon and I put on our decked-out vests and we opened the door to greet our first guests. They (remember, we don't know our neighbors) looked at our vests, gave an akward smile and continued talking. I was so relieved when Jon told them it was a joke and that they too could make one! This crazy idea turned out to be a fun time of bonding.
The Supplies |
The Hosts |
The Food |
Some of the guests |
The evening was a success. Plenty of food, drinks, laughter, happy kids and more! The best part was that we made new friends. We are all busy and rarely take the time to do more than wave... but now we have shared memories and can continue building friendships with these sweet neighbors. I am continually grateful that God placed us in this neighborhood. I was convinced that House # 1 then #2 then #3 were the perfect houses for us. I was wrong {again}. God knew what we needed and I will be faithful with what He has given us and whom He has placed us near.
Love it Kel. I laughed so hard thinking about you two opening the door in those vests. Wish we were there. Fun thinking about all the Christmas parties we shared together. Love you!
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