Friendly Chats and Open Houses

I miss the days where it was acceptable to walk over to someones house unannounced and be gladly welcomed with excitement.  I miss the times of sitting on a front porch drinking lemonade in a lawn chair and talking about every day life.  I miss the casual culture of yester-year.  But is it really gone?

I remember sitting in the screened in porch at my grandparents house in NH listening to the brook and having "coffee break" and seeing friend's cars come strolling down the driveway, unannounced.  I thought that was normal growing up.  There was no need to call ahead (unless you needed a ride!) and there was no reason to worry about the state of cleanliness of your home.  When company came, they were greeted warmly and treated like family.   We'd pull out the donut jar, fill up another cup or mug of their desired beverage, scoot another chair closer to the table, and deal another hand for the card game being played.   And if the company could stay long enough, there was another dish at the table.   There was no feeling awkward as a visitor.  It was like one big happy family. And, just another day.

Time has changed.  Culture has changed.  It just does not seem polite to show up unannounced.  People have such tight schedules that arriving unannounced at someone else's home may inconvenience them because there is something that needs to get done or somewhere they have to be.  We have too many conveniences that make us not be able to just sit and relax and enjoy God's creation...including people above all else! 

Today I had the pleasure of taking my boys to a friends house to swim and just hang out.  We were invited to stay for dinner, and it just felt like there was a sense of that old fashioned charm, acceptance and friendship that comes with open hospitality.  There was no pressure to have a big fancy meal planned (although the burgers and bonus fixings were yummy!).  That is the niceness (if that is even a word!) of casual enjoyment with friends.  There is no show.  It is real friendship. 

I really enjoy the open door policy.  If we are home, come on in and make yourself at home.  I don't want to be the rigid type that has to plan everything out.  I want to continue working toward the casual, screened in porch dwelling with a donut and beverage, hoping someone randomly comes over to enjoy the company and friendship of my family.  So, here is my invitation...do not hesitate to stop by for a chat!  If you stay long enough, I will fire up the grill and cook you some burgers too. 

Thank you to my dear friend from today who reminded me of the type of friendship I long for!  You are a special family and we pray for you all often.