Making friends...harder than making decisions

If you have a small group of newish friends you think would like each other, is it better to:

1. Suggest everyone go out to dinner. It's a shorter time period, and easier to escape after.

2. Invite everyone to your place for dinner. That way there could be music, cooking, games, etc. to help if there are gaps in conversation.

Click here to help me make up my mind!

Grandma's Birthday Update

I went! I'm really tired, but I'm glad I was there. It was a small group for Grandma's 85th...just me, Mom, and two aunts. We had lunch and they all compared notes about how often each of their children get (or used to get) grounded. I think she had a good birthday. Plus, Mom and I got to see Davy Jones at the 4th of July festival, which was awesome. I have now seen a Monkee! Thanks for your votes, everyone! Next weekend I'm staying home and not speaking to anyone! :)

4th of July

My grandmother's birthday is July 4. Should I drive the three and a half hours and go?

To go:

She's turning 85, and is not especially robust. I should take every opportunity to see her.

I am normally busy on the 4th, so I'm not usually able to go.

My summer is going to be busy, so I'm not sure when I'll be able to go later.

To not go:

I've had three weekends in a row of traveling or houseguests, and I would really like a weekend at home!

I was just there two weeks ago.

It's not a three day weekend since the 4th is a Saturday, so I don't feel like it's an extra special road trip weekend.

Grandma doesn't want a big deal made, and most other relatives probably won't come.

Click here to vote and help me make up my mind!