My friend, on the other hand, loves to cook and show off her cheffy side. Consequently she does not let her company bring any food.

Meaning? What do I bring the hostess?

Well... I have this little patch of flowers that I have blogged about this summer- a little patch that has grown up around my mailbox. So - I cut a few zennias and stuck them in a darling vase I picked up at Goodwillfor $1.25.

Today my friend's kitchen table is graced by a gift my Father and I jointly gave her- a lovely boquet of flowers grown from seeds I planted, watered and nurtured by Creator God.

I hope every time she sees my little contribution to her home she smiles and knows how much she is loved.

Have you thought of doing a little refreshing work around your home or lifting someone else's spirts? Maybe a gift from God's creation is just the zing and pop you or your friend needs.

What's on your kitchen table? Something inspiring I hope. Whatever you choose, make sure it causes you and your home to

Shine!

My philosophy on moving has been: never wait.

Don’t wait for the neighbors to come to me. Go to them. Have an open house for the neighbors. Face it. You know they are curious about the new family. Invite them to come over – even before you have unpacked. Be real. Tell them- “I have to have an incentive for moving in and settling down. Getting to know my neighbors is my incentive for unpacking and becoming a part of my new community.” They will love you for being REAL.

Don’t wait for the day when you are perfectly arranged, telling yourself that “Now I can meet my community.” Research your churches and join a ladies’ Bible study as soon as possible. ASAP – you hear me! It really doesn’t matter if you don’t plan on joining the church where the study is being held. In many communities women attend studies in one church although they are members of another church. I promise you- your best friends will develop within a Bible study group.

Don’t wait for your children to get over the shock of the move before registering them for activities. Do your research. Join the Y, a rec center, or your neighborhood pool and tennis club – or whatever. Sign them up for camp and Vacation Bible School. Don’t wait- get involved.

Don’t wait for teachers to ask you for help. Tell them you are lonely and have lots of time on your hand. Tell them you will do anything. This is a wonderful way to meet other mothers.

Don't wait to get so lonely you can't pull yourself out of a deep hole. Volunteer somewhere meaningful- a soup kitchen, the pregnancy care center, your local hospital, Salvation Army... 
Don’t wait for a group of praying moms to come to you. Find them or start a Moms In Touch group at the school where you children attend.

Ten years ago I moved to Charlotte. Within months I was attending the MIT prayer group at my son’s middle school. Today those women are my best friends. Our sons are all in college. We continue to pray for them. The thing I long for most in my moves has been stability and a history with friends. Through my MIT group I have filled that longing.

Don’t wait- move in and
Shine!