How We Show Up: Reclaiming Family, Friendship, and Community

by Mia Birdsong

Hello, Friends, Happy New Year! One of the things I struggle with as an extroverted only child is my desire to have loved ones casually in my home more often, but a discomfort with the idea that people would just unexpectedly drop by. So I want to create an opportunity for you all to drop by inside of a container of loose planning. In the coming year, I will send texts or emails up to a couple of days in advance to let you know you can come to Drop By Dinner. Here are guidelines: 1. These dinners will not be anything special and will be potluck-ish with a very low bar. I will feed you whatever I’m making for me and the kids. Bring something if you have it, even if it’s just half a loaf of bread and a bit of cheese so we can make grilled cheese sandwiches. 2. This is CAYA1 (come as you are). You do not have to be in a good mood, showered, party-ready, or up for socializing. I want us to have space to be our real, messy, human selves on these evenings. I might be in a crap mood or unshowered, and my house will most definitely be in some state of mess. 3. Campsite rules apply. Please make sure my home isn’t messier when you leave than it was when you arrived. When I tell you to just leave the dishes in the sink, ignore me. Wash those shits. 4. Last-minute RSVPs and cancellations are fine. As are maybes. And last-minute cancellations on my part. Even if you don’t RSVP, you can show up. THIS IS THE POINT! 5. You can bring your kids. Don’t let a lack of childcare keep you from c...