Easter Thoughts-In Ocotber

Yikes, Easter is only twenty-three weeks away! I agreed to host. I was put to the spot yesterday and didn’t have a chance to think, or even say "maybe". I didn’t want to commit to even attending on that side of the family-remember my past posts on how other Easters have been a bit of an over the top fiasco when hosted by my sister-in-laws on DH’s side? (Time to Switch Up Holiday traditions  and Beating of Drums). We broke from attending his side last year as my sister hosted, wanting a chance to finally host a big family event now that she is in a home that is conducive to entertaining. It was so zen. I know, probably because my sister, my family, my perspective is skewed, but we were home by mid afternoon, early enough to still enjoy a cool, but sunny day. I'm not sure why my one sister-in-law is attending-it should be her other sides rotation, but she was quick to suggest I host.

In some ways, having a solid deadline of having extended family will be the kick in the arse I need to finish late and procrastinated projects, and keep my home sane leading up to it. Yet, I know I’ll feel judged the entire time my mom and sister in law are in my home, whether they are being judge or not. I know, that is my problem to get over. At least I won’t have to amuse young kids (even though I like kids) as my brother-in- laws family, who hosted last two years (kind of), will be on the tail end of a spring break vacation. No bunny business to deal with. I don’t really know how many people-perhaps as many as 14, but as few as 9. My table will easily fit 8-perhaps stretch to 9. I’ll have to set up either downstairs, the living room, or try to add table space adjacent. 

I’ve hosted birthday parties, confirmations, and two super large graduations for my kids.  All have been low key, open house kind of events, all on my agenda without a sit down at the table all together type meals. I feel like holiday expectations are different-I'm trying to fit DH's family, expectations more so than traditions, into my hosting. I hope my older daughter is able to come home that weekend as she would be a huge help, but I wouldn’t pressure her to do so. Spring is a busy work time for her. Last year, she was traveling for work anyway. Some of you are pros at this kind of hosting, so as I get closer, I’ll be posting requests for menu ideas, seating arrangements, and prepping tips. It's best to just suck it up, put on my big girl pants, and know I'll get through it with a little help from my blogger world friends.