Don't hesitate: RECIPROCATE!

A big topic amongst me and my gal pals lately has been "reciprocation" for invitations.  It's been a thorn in my side since I became a suburban house wife.  I invite friends over all the time for dinner, BBQs, holiday parties - you name it!  I love to have folks over!  I realize that not everyone likes to entertain as much as we do...but I feel it's important to receive invites in return - especially from those that are constantly being entertained at my home.  I had a close friend and over 4 years of our friendship - my husband and I were invited to her house for dinner only ONCE!!  Meantime, she was invited to our home at least once per month over those 4 years.  You do the math.  After a while, it makes you feel as though the "non-reciprocators" really don't want to have you over for a specific reason.  Is it because we drink to much?  Do we stay too long?  Do my kids bother them?  What is it?  I've asked...believe it or not - ballsy, yes, I have asked, "why don't we get the invites?"  A common answer is, "well, I don't cook..."  I find that even more rude.  How hard is it to put out a block of cheese, a sleeve of crackers and open a bottle of wine for someone you consider to be a friend?  I'm not asking for a Martha-friggin-Stewart dinner party.  It's just the idea that we are being welcomed into your home.  My best friend has 4 children under the age of 12.  She has her hands full but is always the first to invite 2 or 3 couples over for dinner along with their kids...  I feel sad sometimes when I don't see her getting an invite in return.  I've asked her if it bothers her and she always says, "no, it's probably because we have too many kids."  That's crap and pisses me off!  So if you find yourself on the invitation list, but never sending out any invites...beware - you may not be receiving many more invites.  At least not from my camp!