On Monday, South Loop Social Light and I hosted an all ladies BBQ at my house.  To be honest, I was a little skeptical when we first discussed this idea because women are notorious for showing up to BBQs empty-handed (myself included), but I finally agreed to it.  My only stipulation was that everyone participate by bringing something.  No free rides!  Since I like coming up with themes, I based the plates and everything around the strawberry margaritas that we were supposed to be drinking.  The morning of the BBQ was kinda hectic. I spent most of it waiting for the lawn guy to show up and pulling 4 foot weeds from the front lawn in case he didn't.  I also had to sweep up the front hallway that was trashed by my neighbors moving out.  They had left this gray dryer lint everywhere.  It was a combination of dust, dirt, gray cat hair and God knows what.

Once I had everything cleaned up, the lawn guy and South Loop Social Light both showed up.  We had borrowed a grill from another friend and we began to get the grill ready.  She had never grilled before and I hadn't grilled since I lived with my parents so it was slightly an ordeal.  I laughed at her because she showed up in a cute outfit with flawless makeup.  By the time the food looked like this, she was sweating and her makeup was melting! 

We had a fabulous time grilling and laughing though.  It got so hot at one point that I was holding an umbrella to shield us from heat.  We kept having to re-light the fire and I almost lost my hair because someone fell in love with lighter fluid, but I can honestly say I would do it again in a heartbeat! 

By the time the meat was cooked, most of the other guests had arrived with the sides and drinks, so we started eating.  This was supposed to be an all ladies BBQ, but one girl asked if she could invite some male friends, so I opened the invite to other men.  One friend called her boyfriend and 30 minutes later we got invaded like Nino Brown at the Carter!  The event turned into a battle of the sexes, but I think most everyone had fun.

I think I have the party planning bug again.