Seated At The Table

A few years ago as the boys started to get older and times seated around the table all together were less and less, I became more aware of how special the kitchen table was. I decided to make it a priority to change it up with the seasons/holidays and always have candles. I wanted it to be a place where everyone and anyone felt welcomed.

Two years ago my husband and I decided to purchase a table and chairs that we intend to keep for the rest of our lives. Solid walnut wood, hand made by the Amish out of Ohio. It took three months after placing the order for delivery. It was well worth the wait! We had made the decision to invest in a good table because there are more conversations and memories made around the table than in any part of our homes. Something incredible happens when we break bread together around the table with family and friends. Is it any wonder my favorite holiday is Thanksgiving?

The second week of December we invite all our neighbors into our small home for a drop-in. Many drop in and never drop out until the party ends. We love it! It is tight quarters for sure. We’ve gotten upwards of 60-70 people in our little home. Ironically, even though we have many chairs in various rooms of our home for people to sit in, everyone seems to hang out in the kitchen around the table and food. We invite people to sit down in other spaces of the house but it’s as though nobody hears us. Truly, no one likes leaving the table.

Today, I made my seasonal trip to my absolutely favorite home store- Home goods. I can purchase almost anything for our home at great prices. I purchased a table cloth for $16.99, placemats for $9.99 and multiple napkins and paper plates/cups and pumpkin scented tea lights from $2.99-$4.99. Then I stopped by our local produce stand and purchased two gourds 2/$1.00. Decorating the table doesn’t have to break the bank. I will change it up again in November for Thanksgiving and then in December for our neighbors drop-in and Christmas.

As we continue to plan for our kitchen overhaul the beginning of 2020, our table is a crucial factor in the project. There will be no island. I appreciate and have admired many kitchen islands. I’ve seen a lot in 15 years of being a Realtor. I may be old fashioned but…For all the reasons above, I value the kitchen table maybe even more than I cherish family vacations. So many people, so many memories, tears shed, belly laughs, successes and failures realized. Love beyond measure…seated at the table.

Thoughts for today…

1) Seated with loved ones sharing food and conversation around the table is one of my favorite places to be!

2) I’m praying for even more opportunities with new people around our table and in our kitchen after the construction is completed.

3) Everyday choose JOY!