Sorry for the goofy title – thought I might sucker some people into thinking I was posting a political treatise.

Well, this is how I judge a party’s success besides party lines like: What sign are you? I want you more than a popsicle on a hot summer day. I love every bone in your body, especially mine. That outfit would look great, especially in a heap on my bedroom floor in the morning. Or, Baby I’m like milk, I’ll do your body good. Well, you get the gist. But simply put, if I’ve had fun, I’m certain my guests have, too. Am I egocentric? Not. It’s a good rule of thumb.

The thing about entertaining a large group, one is often thinking of at least five things that need tending to: fresh ice, keeping the beverage table supplied, warming hors d'oeuvres, and with sleight of hand, picking up discarded plates and glasses – the whole while, floating around as though nary a worry or care is lurking in one’s brain. Carol and I haven’t discussed this particular facet of our party, but I bet her brain was zinging, too. Then, there is the ultimate art of engaging in conversation with rapt interest, while thinking about everything else. This last detail was a snap, though – we had a fabulous guest list with interesting people – they made it easy for us. The people were amazing. (Hi DB & KB)

As in the past, I thought about hiring someone to assist, but the vincas drained my budget. Luckily, my Aunt Jean Carol and Cousin Carroll and Friend Amy jumped in to help with everything, which was more fun, anyway.

Okay. Carol was a smash success – everyone l-o-v-e-d her. Duh. Of course they did, because she is so gosh darn lovable. And as a team, we sailed through the evening and had the best time ever. Most people left between 9-10. A handful lingered until 1 a.m. I am too old for this. :)

It was also very gratifying to hear the oohs and aahs regarding my art collection (I have a good curatorial eye from all my years of working in museums), as well as the few canvases of my own on the walls. I am so darn shy, that when people inquired about my work, I just waved my hand in the general direction – really. Later on, I discovered Carol made sure everyone saw my work. Bless her. *me too shy* I will admit, they loved my work – I’m enamored with the good manners of the South. :)

My new yard also received abundant praise. This pleased me sooo much. At the end of this post, you will find some pics of my new landscaping. I’ll post incremental pics as the yard matures. BTW, I’ve wailed and pounded my chest that I neglected to take pics at the party. My digital camera sat idle all evening, because I was preoccupied. Carol looked so beautifully elegant, as usual. I was my funky-dunky self, as usual. Anyhoo, guess we’ll have to give another party. :)

Sorry this is so boring. My best posts generally address folly or emotions. The party owned neither. It was simply grand. No one danced with a lampshade on head, no one passed out in my vinca yard, no one puked in my new azalea bushes, no one *streaked*, no one required a cab ride home – yet, it was perfect. Hmmm, maybe we’ve grown up. :)

To further bore you – life has never been sweeter for me except when my babies were born. I safely speak for Carol, too.

Before I sign off, I want to thank everyone who left comments on my Veni, Vidi, Vinca post. I didn’t personally respond to several of them (I was up to my eyeballs with party preparations), but am grateful for all of you. *hugs*.

From the Mountain, Reenie


Back View

Approaching Reenie's Reach

Screened Porch

Driveway View