With Christmas quickly approaching, we wanted to take a night to thank our church staff and their wives for all they had done for us this past year – our first year in Augusta!

Growing up as the daughter of a pastor, I was always so grateful for people that showed appreciation to my Dad and Mom.  Living in a new area, and being a part of a different church now, we’re grateful to be those people who support and hopefully encourage our leaders who give so much of themselves!

The nights agenda was pretty low-key, just dinner and gag gift exchange, but once we finished, my friend recorded and later edited for our missionary friends in Madagascar.  Of course, Gary and I were honored to lend our vocal talents {and dancing} to this production of “We Wish You a Merry Christmas”! 🙂 Enjoy!

Through hosting a home group for a church this semester, we also had the opportunity to host two parties!  For both we tried to keep them as simple as possible: we asked everyone to bring an appetizer or dessert, we provided coffee and s’mores, and we instructed people on what to wear {since both parties had “themes”}.  Easy-peazy for the host and hostess:)

The first party in October was Halloween party. We asked everyone to dress up in a famous duo/couple costume.  We had lego people, Johnny and June Cash, Jack and Jill, Struck by Lighting, Richard Simmons and his project, Popeye and Olive Oil, Mickey and Minnie, and even The Bachelor and a contestant!  Everyone was so creative!

Gary and I were Richard Simmons and his project.  Seriously, I wish you all could have experienced G staying in character all night.  Hysterical.  

The second party was a “Ugly Sweater” party and the sequins, embroidery, and turtlenecks were in full force.   We played a few Christmas themed games and also had a “photo booth” {aka wrapping paper from the Dollar Tree to make a photo booth backdrop. Olan Mills, anyone?}

I love, love, love hosting in our home and am thankful to have a husband that enjoys it as much as I do!