mix-making

I've been back from a wonderful birthday weekend in New England, and I haven't said a word about it! My initial thoughts:

• My best friend and her husband are so fun to be with!
• Most delicious weekend I've had maybe ever! I can't believe my pants still fit!
• So much fun packed into three days! And loads of pictures, of course.
• I miss them already!

Currently I am up too late (as usual!) putting together a few mixes for my birthday BBQ tomorrow night. Making a good mix is harder than one would think! Does anyone have any ideas? I need one semi-chill mix for the BBQ and one "groove/funk" mix for later on (not my words). What artists/songs would you put in a mix?