Shortcuts

If you know me, you know that I love to entertain. We do most of our entertaining in the warmer months. Our kitchen and dinning area are small, therefore it is more comfortable to do it outside. I have noticed though, it is becoming harder and harder for me to get it all done. You see I have this hang-up. I want everything to be homemade. My marinades, sauces, and everything else. Recently, I have realized it is much more important to be hospitable, than to put too much on my plate and become frustrated. I will soon be the mother of 5 children. The younger three being very close in age. I am feeling the need to change things so I can make sure the children get all of me that is needed. A few weeks ago Jack was cutting 4 molars at one time. He gets really sick when he does this. We had company coming for dinner. The old me would have passed him off to dad or big brother to make sure dinner was perfect. I decided he needed mommy to hold him most of the day so I ordered Family Style Spaghetti and Meatballs, salad, and bread to go from Macaroni Grill. I stopped and picked up a cheesecake from the grocery store. We had a lovely dinner and time of fellowship. No one seemed to mind that I did not cook the food. I am learning it is okay to take shortcuts sometimes. I heard Nancy Wilson say onetime that she hosts Sabbath dinner for her family every week. One great thing about her doing it, is that she no longer has little ones at home which makes it easier for her than it would be for her girls. She said when she is out of town the family still gets together, but has a more simple meal. I am trying to remember that as my plate is getting full.