Always R.S.V.P.

I know it doesn't sound like much of a thing, but until you have tried to plan a party and have no idea how many to plan for....well then you'll get it.

It's very hard to figure out how much of what type of food or drink to serve when you have no idea who is coming.

It's very simple to pick up your telephone, shoot a quick email or even send a text message letting someone know that you will or will not be there.  If you're really bothered by this then do it at a time that you are fairly certain they will not answer and leave a message. 

And if you're not coming....then don't feel the need to give an elaborate excuse.  My husband agonizes for hours, some times days, on what he should "tell them."  Why? I always ask him.  You don't owe anyone an explanation for your life.  You just simply say we are not going to make it, but thanks for the invite.  You don't need to offer to get together at another time.  You don't need to tell them that your long lost Uncle will be in town and you are all going golfing that afternoon.  Just thank them for the invite and say we will not make it.  If they ask?  Just say it conflicts with other plans we already have and apologize again.  They should get the message from there that that is all they need to know.

R.S.V.P. my friends....be good, considerate people.