Reeeeeeelax....

It’s crunch time.  I’m in charge of a ladies’ shindig at church Saturday, and all the last-minute preparations (think puzzle pieces) need to fit together in the days between now and then.  Sometimes various women can have unique thoughts on puzzle-working as they come together to face a common goal (think peas and carrots).  I want to model open communication and cooperation (think motivation).

Honestly, I feel very good about the event.  It’s a Valentine Luncheon inspired by Mark 12:31: “Love Your Neighbor.”  Our motto?  “Love it Forward” (think unique opportunity). With this in mind, we’ve invited “neighbors” from the surrounding community, and have had good response.  Almost half of those attending will be visitors!

A speaker/musician from our own congregation plans to present an encouraging, uplifting program.  She’s a classically trained violinist with an international following, one who spends a lot of time performing and speaking in Great Britain, Ireland, and Scotland (think professional).  I’m sure she’ll be amazing, as usual.

The potluck lunch will be diverse and delicious – it always is!   Various table hostesses are prepared to set their individual tables with a signature centerpiece and their own good china from home to make for diversity in table personalities (think tea party).  Fun!

Still, there are many little details crunching underfoot, some threatening to trip me, waiting to be ironed out.  Who sits at what table?  Who makes the coffee?  How do I respond to this or that request (think stress)?

In it all, I need to keep an eye out for the inevitable, unpredictable last minute changes – there are always some of THOSE lurking under the rug somewhere.  For example, we closed sign-up yesterday, and yet more would-be attendees are already charging through the closed doors.  We have plenty of room at this point, so that’s fine - in fact it’s great - but we need a REAL cut-off soon (think being decisive).

Deep down, I know it’s going to be GREAT.  We’ll have a special time making wonderful new memories and enjoying new friends.  I just need to relax – sit in the hot tub under the stars every evening – until it’s time to let the good times roll.

Think chill out!