Countdown: T-minus Five Days

So we've have less than a week to go. We went up to the barn yesterday with the first load of items: tables, tents, wine, garlands, flower boxes and more. There's been enough rain that the grass has gotten tall and green and the goat kids are full of energy romping around the yard. It's been a pleasure to see the evening light getting longer and by the time this weekend rolls around, it will join us well into the night. I've finally allowed myself to get a little excited, but there is still a great deal to be done. It's amazing how many little things need to be in place for such a laid back affair to happen. This evening included buying collard greens, baked beans, and stuff for mac and cheese to be made the night before. We're keeping everything as local as possible and nixing any hydrogenated oils or high fructose corn syrup. Everything is going to be made by family, mostly my mother and aunt who are in charge of the wonderful cake, Latvian potato salad, and other things I'll keep under wraps for now. Maija has been a wonderful sidekick, keeping me laughing through all of the stress. In fact, my whole family has been fantastic, jumping in everywhere they are allowed. D and I are looking forward to getting all the work done so we can enjoy it.