Did we really appreciate our unlimited human contact before the virus derailed our lives? Meeting up with friends (or relatives), enjoying a bite in a restaurant, saying good-bye with a hug are all actions in a previous lifetime. Hopefully, they will return to our lives.
March 8 was the last time I saw two friends in person. Impending stay-at-home orders were looming. I had belated Christmas gifts to deliver and feared if I didn’t do it on this day, they would never get delivered. The encounters were brief, no hugs allowed, just an elbow bump.
Through the days and months, we kept in contact with a couple of zoom meets, phone calls, and FaceTime. Our usual birthday celebrations were put on hold. Until one of us had enough. She decided we would gather in her backyard and spend an evening together. It was easy to find a date that was free, so it was settled, Friday, October 9, 6:00 p.m.
My friend, Tiffany, is the ultimate hostess. She has a flair for making any occasion special. The fire pit had a small fire going. A nearby table was draped with a tablecloth, multiple lanterns were lit, a pitcher of Autumn Punch waited to fill the copper mugs. Of course there were s’more fixings, but also hand sanitizer and wipes.
A cheese ball (shaped like a pumpkin, of course) and crackers were brought out for a snack before the main event – pizza cooked on the big green egg.
There wasn’t just one pizza or two, no she created FOUR different pizzas! Each one with unique flavors, all extremely tasty!
After pizza, we settled around the fire pit to chat and watch the dancing flames. Decorated pumpkin shaped sugar cookies (made by Tiffany) were the first dessert. It was so relaxing, being with dear friends and visiting. I had forgotten what it was like to be with someone besides my husband and mother. Soon the pokers for the marshmallows were brought out and s’mores were the final touch on the evening.
I hope you have a friend like Tiffany. She brings joy where ever she is. (What makes this evening even more extraordinary is Tiffany is an instructional specialist working full-time in an elementary school that is face-to-face five days a week.) I don’t know how she managed to create this perfect evening, but I am thankful that she did. (FYI – she sent two of the cookies home as favors.)
elsie tries writing 
There is nothing better than being around a fire pit with friends and just talking. Nice fire pit too.
It is a special treat to see a photo of you at this gathering! I am so accustomed to seeing through your eyes, that it is special to actually see YOU. So many little touches made an already delightful evening that much more enjoyable–for you and for us who are simply reading about it. I am so happy for you!
As I read your post, I smiled. It is filled with joy. Close friends, yummy food, and some thoughtful touches.
Elsie, you started off with a zinger of a line – I don’t think we DID appreciate our unlimited human contact before COVID! What a festive evening, every part – and I would have loved that fire pit. Secretly craving an outdoor fireplace … this just fanned the flames… 🙂
I’ve met with two friends at the park or on my deck numerous times during the summer. Now, I think we’ll just have to bundle up. The capture of your evening warmed my heart!
This sounds like such a perfect evening! I love people like Tiffany and want to be more like her.
LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this. Being at the lake this summer helped me get out and see friends. It was easy to social distance and be outside. Fall is going to be a little trickier, but I love Tiffany’s idea. Might have to try it!
Thank you for sharing your girl friend time. Our hearts are filled when those once taken for granted opportunities are now shared. I could feel the sense of relaxation.
You photos are always such a treat. 😊
Full disclosure on the photos, they were taken by Janet. You should have been there too! Next time?
I am so happy for you. The togetherness, the good time with fabulous people and delicious food is extra special once you have lived a life without them.
This is lovely and I’m so happy for you to be with your friends. When I saw the title of your post, I was caught off guard…rarely do you write about the evenings. I’m glad you wrote this week…I missed you last week!
xo,
ruth
What a delightful evening! I do miss hugs and get togethers. What a blessing!