When we got married, Josh’s grandma graciously gave us a table and chairs that she wasn’t using anymore. It was just perfect for the two of us. If we had company, it was a stretch, but it was definitely doable. Fully extended, it is a little larger than a card table. Two flaps on the sides fold down to make it smaller. It even came with two matching chairs. It was as good as brand new. I truly felt blessed to receive it.

Four years later, our family has doubled. And we are still trying to fit around that table. When company comes over, we break out the card table and folding chairs to accommodate everyone. Still doable, but it’s a leeeeettle tight.

So this year for Christmas, we asked both sets of parents simply for money towards a new, sturdy, real wood, roomy dining room table. We went and priced them and came to the conclusion that for one that would last (which is what we’re going for) we’d have to add some of our own money as well. We were planning on spending $400-600 (most of that would be Christmas money – I know, we are truly blessed with giving families!).

Then my mom calls. “I’m at an auction,” she says. “There are two tables here that are in very good shape, hard wood, good sizes, matching chairs – do you want me to bid on them?”

After teaching her to send multi-media text messages, I received pictures of the tables in question. I upload them to the computer, and then to my online photo site (because I can’t sent emails with attachments – DSL comes in January). I then send the links to Josh’s email and we discuss which table would suit out needs better. I decide on the lighter stained round table with four chairs and two leaves. After coming to that conclusion, I notice three voicemails have magically appeared on my phone.

“Beth, they’re starting the bidding on the darker stained square table in five minutes. If you don’t get back to me, I’m just going to bid on that until it gets to $100 and then I’ll let someone else have it.”

Oh no! Please, God, let it go over $100. I want the round table!

I try to call her, but she doesn’t get reception inside the building.

I check the other voicemails.

“Beth, the square table went for $110. The bidding on the round table starts in a few minutes. You don’t seem excited about this, so I’ll only go up to $100 and then I’ll let it go to someone else.”

But I am excited! I don’t know why my phone didn’t ring when you called! I want the round table and I’m willing to pay up to $200!!!

I try to call, but could not get through.

I checked the third voicemail.

“Beth, you have the round table for $60.”

Thank you Jesus!

So, since the internet won’t let me upload pictures of my family this Monday, I will now take the honor of introducing you to…. *drumroll*

OUR NEW TABLE! (Coming December 9)

No, that’s not my mom. That’s a friend. My mom’s the technological genius taking the picture from her cell phone. I love technological geniuses. That’s why I married one.

And the table with both leaves in place:

So without the leaves, it’s about the size of our table now – maybe a bit bigger. With the leaves it’s big enough to seat six comfortably!

Go meet other people (or their inanimate Christmas presents)!