Sunday, May 27, 2007

Another Rainy "holiday" Weekend


It’s been raining in Michigan this entire weekend. Having lived in Michigan most of my life, I’ve come to expect a rainy forecast for most every extended summer weekend. However, I had really hoped this weekend would be more cooperative. With family and close friends flying in from as far away as Nashville, I was planning cookouts on the deck and a host of other outdoor activities to keep everyone entertained.

It’s now Sunday morning and still raining. In light of this, my husband and I began brainstorming. What in the heck does one do with a house full of guests when it’s raining? Ah ha, we said! Games!

This weekend we’ve rediscovered the fun (and social aspect) of board and card games. Let’s see, so far we’ve played Yukor (a Michigan card game), Apples to Apples, Sequence, Charades, and Taboo.

We also hosted a progressive wine dinner on Friday night (see pic for some of the gang). It was a blast! There were four couples with each couple preparing one main course along with an appetizer or side dish. Each main dish was paired with a wine selection. What a feast. Imperial cut lamb chops, bruschetta, zucchini pancakes, stuffed mushrooms, fish tacos, grilled basil garlic shrimp (made with fresh home-grown basil), and seared artichokes were just a few of the yummies served.

The best part of this “rainy” holiday weekend (at least for me) has been the opportunity to visit and interact with friends and family on a more personal level. No computers, no video games, no T.V., no movie rentals. This entire weekend has been about enjoying conversation and laughter with loved ones in a group situation. It’s been a great weekend.

Sidebar: There’s been just enough chill in the air to build a fire in the fireplace and still have windows and slider doors open. This weekend has felt like a camping adventure but with all the comforts of home.

No comments: