Oysters with Marilyn at a White Thanksgiving

     I have heard about the feast at my nephew and niece's house for years.  But with work, babies, parents, etc...we were never able to accept the invite with a resounding "yes!".  This year was different.  I was so absolutely excited to be a part of it.  The first Thanksgiving without the matriarch of the family is a tricky one and I needed a space for all of us to feel the love that she used to pour onto us for the holiday.  
     Theresa tends to have something in common with me.  We try to do tooooo much at all times.  We end up tired.  This year she broke out of her comfort zone and it was quite the success.  With a room full of misfit toys we put together a bountiful feast.  We came with desserts, breads, side dishes...our specialties and all shared a table for 14.   Of course being Theresa and Chuck this doesn't mean you slack in any way.  The table was suitable for a surprise visit from Martha herself and the amuse bouche, delicious soup and tasty appetizers were Top Chef quality.  As we sat around delicate cheeses and dips...out came a platter of freshly shucked oysters complete with a minuet.  The old me...NO WAY!  Oddly enough, I was JUST chatting with Marilyn about my new thing of the day.  We were discussing how it changes your thinking pattern and breaks you out of your mold.  How it makes each day an exciting adventure.  So when oysters come out...instead of turning up my nose...I grinned.  Only one thing to do!  Marilyn was new to them as well.  So we toasted our shells and down they went.
     The day was wonderful.  Great discussions about everything from Peeps to parent teacher conferences.  Hilarious stories.  Delicious food.  Teamwork in so many ways.  Kindness.  Hugs.  It was a day to be thankful for in a room full of people truly grateful for what we have...despite the challenges, despite the losses, despite the changes.  Smiles on little girls, a food thieving Potato pug, snuggles on laps, a giggling Pop Pop, a quick catch up in a quiet kitchen...that is what we all needed. 
     I am thankful for the day, grateful for the company and blessed to have been with such wonderful people.  Happy Thanksgiving!