By MICHAEL FRENCH

HOME, is the one place where every man can be totally himself. It’s his own private oasis where he can recharge from an arduous day, feel safe, and just “kick back”. Home speaks volumes about who you are, more than your car, clothes or your six pack! A wall of photos, full of memories, can tell the story of your life, giving clues to what’s important to you. Your home introduces you to new people in your life.

Are you looking to expand your network of friends and acquaintances? What better place to meet new people than in the comfort of your own home! Throw a “Meet a New Friend” party. Request guests to bring someone YOU DO NOT KNOW! You and everyone else are guaranteed to make a new acquaintance at the very least! We all know, the importance of networking cannot be over emphasized.

Entertaining at home will do wonders for your social life. Become known as a friendly, warm host and your reputation will skyrocket. Like minded people will be drawn to you. Each week I will offer you some ideas on party planning, decoration, furniture and other proven ways to make your house a home for home for everyone you invite to a gathering.

Just the economic benefits alone make having fun at home perfectly logical! Ask guests to bring something to eat or drink. For the price of two Martinis in the average bar, you can get a liter of vodka, case of beer, or 3 delicious steaks! The huge benefit is you don’t have to drive!

Creating a theme for the event always makes the party more festive. This President’s Day, have your first “Make a Friend” event. Throw a festive brunch! Celebrate two of the most important men in American History, George Washington, the father of our country and Abraham Lincoln, who held our young “family” of states together during one of our nation’s darkest hours. It’s Abe’s 200th birthday! Make sure there’s something to eat or drink with cherries in it to honour George. Lincoln’s favorite dessert was apple cinnamon sponge cake. Have a raffle with one and five dollar bills. Let your imagination run wild!

When you go out on the town, you never know who you’ll meet. The same goes for having a “Meet a New Friend” party. The huge difference….you are HOME!

Michael French is Agendas’ new Home from Home columnist Contact Michael at mf7954fla@gmail.com