Now That We're A Family

475: Why We Started Throwing Parties

Mar 24, 2026
They explain why themed get-togethers and simple feasts make hosting easier and more memorable. Tolkien-inspired reading nights, cloaks, wooden swords, and medieval food spark family creativity. Celebrating saints, seasonal hooks, and national holidays become teaching moments for kids. Skill-building parties like chess, music, or hymn sings refresh social life and strengthen relationships.
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INSIGHT

Fiction Can Reframe Hospitality

  • Reading fiction like The Lord of the Rings reshaped Katie and Elisha's view of hospitality and inspired intentional themed gatherings.
  • Tolkien characters (Bilbo's notable parties, Tom Bombadil's haven) sparked ideas for both festive hostings and restful overnight hospitality.
ANECDOTE

How St Patrick's Day Became A Teaching Moment

  • The family read about St. Patrick and turned a previously secular day into a faith-focused celebration with friends.
  • They used clovers to teach the Trinity, served green foods, and invited one family over for music and Reuben sandwiches plus a potato bar.
ADVICE

Host Small Themed Nights For Low-Stress Hospitality

  • Do host small themed get-togethers instead of large generic dinners to make gatherings feel special and reduce planning stress.
  • At St. Patrick's they kept decor simple (dollar-store clovers), themed food (Reubens, potato bar), and casual music to keep it chill.
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