Stuck at inside? Have a welcoming home

It’s more difficult for Keith and I to get around these days. We’re not as stable as we used to be—especially Keith. I hope that after hip surgery this year that will change in his case.

While getting out isn’t always on the schedule, other than church, we are not just “stuck” at home. Our door is open to visitors whether or not they’ve called ahead. The other night a friend was in town for a few minutes and stopped in for a short visit. A bit later, friend Val stopped in to bring us her Christmas Gazette which is always a fun read.

She had another reason for stopping in. The book she always planned to write but didn’t have time what with helping other writers with their projects was finally finished and in print. Val handed me a personally autographed copy of her beautifully done book. How exciting for her, and for me to hold the long-wished product in my hands.

She was ready to leave when Rachel entered. A neighbor, nurse and friend, she keeps an eye on my health. And that’s one day in the new year.

December we had an early family Christmas at our house since it was the year for our daughter Cassie, Kurt and kids to have Christmas on Christmas with Kurt’s family in Minnesota. Here was also our son’s daughter Tori and my sister-in-law Lorene. For two days, we talked, ate, and celebrated Christmas with the reading of the birth of Jesus, carols, and gifts.

Christmas Eve, we also celebrated with Keith and I, Lorene and Rachel—food, game, fellowship, and gifts. A good time together.

New Year’s Eve, dear friends since college days, Jeff and Gloria, their international student, and Lorene. (Rachel had to work.) gathered at our home. We’re not spring chickens anymore. We started our celebration around 4:30. Food and talk. The guys watched part of the disappointing Husker bowl game before joining the women in the dining room. By 7:30 we toasted our nonalcoholic beverages to the new year and our guests headed home.

Not being able to get out due to health reasons doesn’t mean our lives or social interaction stops. We simply open our home to friends and family. It doesn’t have to be burdensome. Paper cups and paper plates work fine. For celebrations, everyone brings something to eat or play.

Don’t get stuck at home alone. Instead, be welcoming, and friendships and fellowship will continue.

Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality. Romans 12:13

We seek to do just that and find we’re not “stuck” at all.

© 2026 Carolyn R Scheidies
Published Kearney Hub 1/29/2029

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