4/29/08

Company Conversation & Apron Giveaway!!

For those of you who want some tips on company conversation, or spicing up your date nights – I’m giving away another copy of Creative Conversation Starters for Couples! Some of the questions are perfect for you and your spouse or a date, to stimulate conversation with your kids, and some work well for entertaining! Give it a Try!

Of course I’m throwing in a darling apron (above photo), along with the book, and a few other treasures to make the package complete.

Make a comment or ask me a question, and you’ll be eligible to win! Even if you are new to my blog, please feel welcome!

Here are 3 easy rules that I’ve come up with, to get you started with good conversation around your table – with your family or with company!

Keep it positive!
Inquire – ask a lot of questions!
Listen more than you talk!

The winner will be announced in two days, on Thursday!

(Post giveaway on your blog,[don't forget to let me know!] and your name goes into the drawing TWICE. If you do not have a blog, please leave your email address!)

97 comments:

Daughter of Annie said...

Hello - not sure if my first comment printed - We are part of a couple's group at our church who meet with couples getting married - this book is recomended by the couple who speak on "Communication"

I Enjoy your blog :)

Kelli said...

:) I would love to win this book and the apron. We have recently been having more guests over the house for dinner or for cookies on a Sunday night. I will link to this site from my blog. Thanks for being such an inspiration.

Anonymous said...

I would like to be entered in your draw, thanks. noel.julien@sympatico.ca

Do you have any suggestions on ways to host children in the neighbourhood? I have a boy who is 8 and a girl that is 6 and I like having neighbourhood kids over to play with them. Do you have any fun ideas on ways to entertain the children, special recipes,etc. The kids are often over at our place playing indoors or outdoors but it would be fun to do a special activity or something special to make for them :)

Thanks, have a great day. Blessings, Keri

Anonymous said...

love your blog! Please enter me also. We host community groups for couples and the book would be so useful!

marklovessue@numail.org
Blessings
Sue

Anonymous said...

I am hosting a dinner in a few weeks for the first time here in the new area we moved to last fall.i am so excited ..it will be a family affair with tweenage kids so i am anxious to hear more ?? starters .also am going to try to start a girls group like you in the fall.have already e mailed you ?s about that..please enter me in your drawing and God bless you for realzing your "gift" and using it for his glory in your little corner of the world.
dortt@bellsouth.net

Tracy said...

Oh YEA!!!! Thanks for the giveaway, Sandy!

Anonymous said...

I enjoy having people over but my husband, not so much.

tammi said...

Sandy, you never cease to encourage me and break down my resistance to practising hospitality. I'm still a work in progress, that's for sure (and probably something of an understatement!!), but the wisdom I've found here has begun to change my attitude. Thank you.

And now, to ensure a second entry, there's a cute little linky-love button on my sidebar advertising your giveaway, too!

I don't know what it is, but lately I've been really interested in having a couple of aprons! I'd love to start my collection with one from you!

Anonymous said...

What a great give-away! That apron is adorable (I still looove mine). Don't count me in b/c I already won but I just wanted to say 'hi!'

Wendy said...

Great give-a-way! Thanks!

This Journey of Mine said...

Classic Mama introduced us to your blog. This is wonderful and right up my alley. I've been discussing (off line) the art of conversations and how to go deep. How to show people God's love through listening to them. I'm definetly going to be coming back to this site for some good ideas!

In the meantime, add me to your list for the giveaway.

Thanks!

An Adventurer in the World said...

Sandy,

We have 6 weddings to attend (so far) this summer. I have decided to create "How-To Hospitality" gift baskets for each shower, and a book like this would be fun to include in each : )

count me in : ) deb meyers

Anonymous said...

Sandy,

Your blog has been such an encouragement to me!!! Thanks for taking the time!

Lynn

keithlynn6@msn.com

Jen said...

Please enter me...I would love an apron....how fun.

Anonymous said...

Hi Sandy,
You have such a generous heart! Enter me in ;)
Emily
greener27@gmail.com

Deidre said...

That looks very interesting - count me in! And, that apron is darling.

Thank you!

Anonymous said...

Hey Sandy!
Thanks for the check-in the other day. I am loving the apron and book! Put me in for that!

Nice job on your blog these days! The pictures are beautiful...I am getting ready to purchase a new camera...someday soon. And am looking around all the time at different cameras. Which camera do you use? And whose the picture taker at your house?

Our MOPS group is finally addressing entertaining. I'd still like to use your 10 Commandments. I'll be sure to let you see first how and if we use them. It really isn't up to me. But I get to make suggestions!

ababe28 said...

I'm feeling a bit of the "mother knows best" part of me wanting that apron...
Enter me for both, the book looks great too!
ababe28 (at) hotmail. (com)

kamewh said...

The apron is adorable and "Creative Conversation Starters for Couples" looks like a great book! Please enter me and thankyou for the giveaway!

Stephanie said...

I have a question, forgive me if it is something you have addressed before. Do you have any tips for how to entertain in a small space? Our house is roughly 1000 sq ft, and it feels packed with just our family of 5! When we have friends over, it just feels so cramped. We do have a fairly large backyard, but no outdoor furniture.

Thank you so much for your blog! I wasn't raised in an environment of hospitality, so your wisdom, advice, and example are such blessings to me.

dawn klinge said...

What a wonderful giveaway! Please count me in :)

Toystory said...

Thank you for having a giveaway...my question is... did you make that apron yourself?

Laura said...

Oh how I love aprons, I wear them all the time. I do have a question for you. What is YOUR biggest entertaining challenge?

Laura

Kristine said...

You are inspiring to so many Sandy...such a source of knowledge...and you are willing to share with us!! Yeah!

This book would be a great resource for dinner parties or a wedding gift.

Thanks...you're the greatest!

Liz said...

Thanks for your blog. It inspires me.

Lorie said...

I love your blog and I'm so glad I stumbled upon it. I would like to send you something if you'll email me your address, you are a inspiration. I'd also like to know about your camera about your group the balcony girls -how you started it and thanks again for your great site. Entering me in your give-away will just be an added bonus.

Anonymous said...

Hi Sandy - I love your blog and visit several times a week. I mentor young ladies right now, but I am looking to start my own group which will be geared towards growing spiritually. How did you find the young ladies for Balcony Girls? Are they friends of your daughters, children from your church? Was it invitation only?

DSP
dsphillips@tamu.edu

Mrs. Darling said...

Oh goodness, Im not here for the giveaway. I always have plenty to say! Lol Just wanted to wish you a good morning and a good day!

grace said...

based on the response here, it's safe to say that you're reaching a lot of people. keep up the good work, sandy!

OKGardners said...

Please enter me for the drawing. I LOVE the apron and would LOVE the book, too. Thanks for keeping us in the Hospitality mood.

Betty in Oklahoma
blue.eagle@cox.net

Dianna said...

Enter me! I'm in dire need of an apron! And I've never been known to pass up a book.

Shawna said...

That is a great tip, ask more questions..I love finding things out about people and it's so much fun learning new things and making new friends.

Thanks for the great post! And that apron is just darling!

Anonymous said...

Thank you Sandy,

your blog is a constant inspiration. I'm usually afraid of hosting many guests but I got so encouraged through you, I invited a couple over and they ended up bringing 5 of their kids - and this plus our 3 toddlers : ) Well the house was crowded but we all had a great time.
I'm planning a little dinner party in May for 3 couples in the neigbourhood and so I trying to get the recipes all together - I guess I'll try potato anna.

Thank you for everything!
God bless you

Dini

DinyB@web.de

Randi Jo :) said...

Thanks so so so much for your blog - and for that matter for your husband's blog as well and both of your ministries. I wholeheartedly agree with and believe in what you all stand and advocate for. Awesome stuff! :) Thanks again!

Hélène said...

I am new to your blog. It looks interesting so far. I love how you taught about gossip to your girls.

Kim said...

Sandy,

Count me in - both the book and the apron would make great additions.

Here is my question - could you please post (or the link) on the recipe that you use with the chicken and mango salsa from Costco?

Thanks!
Kim

Anonymous said...

I have enjoyed your blog very much and look forward to each new entry. My husband and I were "older" when we were married 10 months ago. We recently stepped out and invited another couple for dinner. We had a great time. I made your bbq chicken - I learned a very good lesson about chicken in the process. After dinner we played games and had plenty of conversation. Thanks for all your tips.

Susie said...

I would love to win the book and the precious apron. When my husband and I were married almost 16 years ago, I decorated my kitchen in black and white. I even accessorized with black and white cow items. This apron reminds me of those things.

Anyway, my questions are:
Do you ever get overwhelmed with cleaning always having people over?
Where is a good place to find pretty glasses(ice tea) that aren't too expensive?
What do you think about centerpieces? Are they a must at a casual dinner or barbeque?

I love when you share about your balcony girl activities. Do you come up with these ideas on your own? Do you follow a study a bible study with them? I have an eight year old daughter and a thirteen yr.old daughter and would love to start one of these when I move in a few weeks to get my girls to know other girls in our new community and church.

Sorry to take up so much space! Your blog truly blesses me.

Amelia Antwiler said...

I came over from ClassicMama's blog - and wow. I'm impressed.

Since I'm going on a date with my hubby, The Professor - and we constantly run out of stuff to talk about (Because we try not to talk (too much) about work and kids) this book would be fantastic for us!!

I'll be reading more of your blog. :-)

Sarah G said...

What a great give-away! Count me in! We are currently in the moving process of a new home and can't wait to be able to have people over and not feel so cramped (as we do in our tiny apartment!)

orneryswife said...

I wish I'd had this book for Ryan's party this weekend. There were not a lot of awkward silences, but there were a few. Would be really fun to win this. Does your husband ever do giveaways? I'd love to have one of his books!
TM

Andrea said...

Sandy, put me in!! It sounds great.

Michelle @ Sew-Krafty said...

Count me in, too. I've got a thing for aprons...well, and books ;)

I love your blog and read everyday!!

Michelle @ Sew-Krafty said...

Okay, I'm going to let the entire internet know how goofy I am. I just now, right after I commented, realized that your blog's name is not the number 4, but "for" reluctant entertainers...right? I've been trying to figure out why there are 5 people in your family but only 4 entertainers.

Or maybe it is 4, and I just don't get it.

Please set me straight, it's gonna drive me nuts!!

(Also, I'm posting your give away.)

Lorie said...

I don't know how to do links and such yet but I gave you a little award at my blog today-check it out.
Be Blessed!
Lorie

Miss G said...

Sandy, I'm getting married soon, we've joined a new church family and I'd love a copy of this book as my husband to be and I learn how to do hospitality together! Thanks for hosting a giveaway. I am going to be hosting one very soon as well(hopefully this week if all the rest of life falls into place to allow time for blogging!) so drop by if you'd like! Kelly

Sincerely Yours said...

I recently found your blog and I am really enjoying it! The pictures you post are so good. Thanks for all of the great suggestions and tips that you give. I'd love to be entered for the give away!

Alicia said...

I'm fairly new to your blog, but instantly fell in love! I'm an entertainer at heart and you have so many wonderful ideas and tips....it makes my hectic life a breeze when I want to throw a little dinner party. I would LOVE to be ntered in the contest!

Gena said...

Sandy,

How DO you do it? :-) Always something fun on your blog; I'd love to enter your new give-away. Thanks for being a constant encouragement.

Farmgirl Cyn said...

I don't remember ever commenting before, but I have been a "silent observer" for quite some time! I especially loved your post on gossip...what a great memory for those girls!
cindy50.blogspot.com

Rhonda said...

Sandy - Please include me in your giveaway.

Your blog is always so inspirational. I enjoy visiting.

Thanks for being so Real!

Rhonda

Aubrey said...

Girl, I love your give-aways! They are so cozy. Sign me up!

Aubrey said...

Forgot to say in the first comment, I posted on my blog!

Anonymous said...

Now that's a book I could use!
Hoping to win,
Holly@aiminghigh

Anonymous said...

We could totally use this book with our small group! And I just LOVE the cute apron!

Shannon
spinchok @ hotmail.com

Susan said...

I've enjoyed your blog for a while now, but never left a comment. Thanks for all the encouragement to just step out and be hospitable! My husband and I are missionaries, and when we were raising our support, we loved nothing better than to be invited into someone's home for a personal time of fellowship - didn't matter what the food was, what kind of furniture, how clean - we just enjoyed someone taking time to invite us into their home. One of our best times was with a very poor family; they fed us salad and watermelon, and we drank water, but we will never forget that family!

Me said...

Love your blog! I am doing the ice cream trough for my son's birthday in June. Count me in for the contest please.
thomac925@gmail.com

Thank you,
Kari

Lisa Russell said...

I just found your blog and am enjoying reading your archives. I have bookmarked a few of your recipes and think they all sound great! Thank you for sharing, and keep the recipes coming!

Lisa Russell

Susan said...

Please put me in for your drawing. I came over from A Pink Carnation.
Susan

Melissa Osborn said...

WOW, I just ran across your blog and I am blown away by the great ideas!

I totally agree with your vision and this will help me get over my hurdles (3 kids under 7).

I'd love to be entered into your drawing.
Blessings!

Anonymous said...

Oh yes please include me in your give away! I don't even remember how I found your blog at this point but the inspiration is invaluable! I love all of your ideas for meals for friends. I also enjoy the table settings. Your regular reminders to be hospitable are so important. A wonderful way to live!

snskee@aol.com

Karin said...

Please enter me in your giveaway ~~
Thanks!

Off to read your garage sale tips now.

Anonymous said...

Don't know how I have missed your blog before, but stumbled upon it at just the right time. I want to learn to open my home to truly bless others, and I'm looking forward to more reading here. Would love to be entered for the apron and book.
holder@cybersouth.com
Jackie in Georgia

B. said...

Love that apron. Pick me! pick Me!

Anonymous said...

Great blog, so glad I came across it.
-Hildie
justhildie@yahoo.com

Anonymous said...

This is delightful! I am putting this in my bookmarks. :)
I would love to be entered in the drawing, if it is still open! :)

Anonymous said...

Sandy, you would be so proud of me. Each Wednesday a friend and I (and families) get together for dinner. One week she cooks, the next I cook. It has made a wonderful addition to our lives and our friendship. This book would be perfect.

Linda said...

I would LOVE the book and the apron!

What a generous soul you have. Thank you for always thinking of others.

Kari said...

Thank you for the wonderful giveaway! I'd love to win the book and the apron!

Amy Salmons said...

Thank you so much for your words of wisdom each day. You have been so inspiring to me. I came across your blog a couple of months ago. You have since showed me entertaining and hospitality in a whole new way. I was always so preoccupied with how clean my home was or how well the menu was planned. I've now realized to forget all of that...just enjoy each other...Even if carryout is sitting on the table with crumbs laying on the floor. It's all about fellowship with one another. Life has taught me that all too well lately. Thank you so much. And, thank for having such a generous giveaway.

Anonymous said...

I would love this book!

I have a great question for you on my blog today. I would love your insight!

Anonymous said...

I often envision a simply decorated table surrounded by guests from church, with easy but delicious food and maybe some candles...then the actual day arrives and my mind is racing for something else to say when it's silent...wishing I at least had some background music on...

Two Peas In a Pod said...

What a great giveaway. I am new to your blog, saw that Valley girl has a link so I thought I would check it out. I would love to be entered in your draw. I will be checking out your other posts as well. Cheers
Kyla

Unknown said...

i love reading your blog! you have so many great and pratical blogs! thank you!

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful apron! I would love to see the book, too!

Thanks!

Joanna Miller
jmillers@hiwaay.net

Unknown said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Unknown said...

I love love love your blog! I have been wanting an apron of my very own. Sign me up please!
Abbey

G. said...

The apron is too cute! I have a question...I have a family of 5 coming in a few days and with my family that makes 11 of us and I'm trying to come up with something easy and quick but also healthy to feed everyone. I want it to be something that kids would enjoy too. They'll be here for 2 dinners and a lunch...I'd welcome any suggestions you have! Thanks.
-gina.

G. said...

...I need to correct my previous comment. I obviously messed up my math :) It's a family of 7 (2 parents and 5 kids) + my family (4)= 11. Sorry about that. :)

G. said...

me, again. :) I posted a note for your giveaway on my blog, too.

Kristen Lawrence said...

I've emailed with you a few times in the past for dinner suggestions, just think if I win this book, I won't have to bug you anymore :) lol. Seriously though, I appreciate all of your help and your blog is one of my favorites. The book and apron look fantastic.

Bobbie said...

Hi, this is my first time reading your blog, but I love it! Please enter me in the drawing for the book and the apron. I don't entertain much, but your posts are inspiring, and I am going to try to be more inviting to others...thanks for the great ideas! I also think the book would be wonderful. Somtimes my husband and I don't know where to begin when we are out without our son!

I will post your giveaway on my blog!

Donnetta said...

My oh My... with 82 comments already I wonder if I even have a chance to win??! ;-)

Oh well, decided to say "Hi" anyway and dream of wearing that cute aparon for just a minute. :-)

Anonymous said...

Sandy,
I enjoy your blog so much.
We have begun to welcome more people in our home mainly because I have learned so many wonderful things from your blog.
In the past I thought I had to wait until this project was finished or that project was done; however, now I am not as frightened of friends and family coming over because of your words of encouragement.
Thanks so much.
Peace,
Lynne in NC

The Park Wife said...

Count me in for the contest! Did you make the apron?

You are an inspiration and I love visiting to see what you are up to.

The Park Wife
www.theparkwife.blogspot.com

Heidi said...

contrary to what my husband might think :) i'm always looking for more conversation starters! count me in sandy!

Heidi said...

contrary to what my husband might think :) i'm always looking for more conversation starters! count me in sandy!

Anonymous said...

Oh, I'd LOVE that book! I've been looking for a conversation starter book or cards for a while. Pick me, pick me!

Anonymous said...

Hi,
I always love visiting your blog! It inspires me to reach out to others and entertain. Thanks so much! Nora

Christmasmom_to_3@yahoo.com

Anonymous said...

I love how positive and uplifting your blog is. I always feel inspired by your posts. Keep up the good work.

Anonymous said...

I'd love to know if you mail invitations to your guests each time you entertain or do you call or email guests to invite them over for the evening?

Jeanne said...

Thanks for posting such great ideas on your blog, and for being so encouraging about the human connection we all need. I linked to your giveaway on my blog. Thank you!

Lori said...

I would love this book. We do alot of entertaining and are in charge of the ice breaker questions for our churches small group. This could be a great resource. And I love the apron. I see aprons and it always reminds me of my mom when I was young and she would entertain. What a great memory!
Lori
crossrds@aeroinc.net

Jenn Alvarez said...

I'm not much of a talker, so this book would help me a lot. Great give away! Thanks!

Anonymous said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Anonymous said...

Hi, my name is Bethney Nicholas, I actually got your link through a friend of mine Aubrey on her blog page. Anyhow, my husband is leaving next month going to Iraq for a year and it was suggested that we read a book together while he's gone. Do you think this would be good ready for us while he's away? I looking for something to keep us close even though he'll be so far away. Anyhow, I see there are TONS of comments already so I don't know if there is even a chance...lol. Just let me know if I am the lucky one! Again my name is Bethney Nicholas and my email is bethnney@hotmail.com

Thanks so much for doing this...it's a very sweet and thoughtful offer!!

~God Bless
Bethney

Anonymous said...

Sandy-
My husband travels frequently for work. I usually invite women and their children over during the week and entire families when my husband is in town on the weekend. He is usually in town 2 weekends a month. Is it appropriate to invite couples over when he is gone? He is actually more social than I am so I don't want to leave him out. Any suggestions?
Thanks,
Amanda