Thanksgiving dinners aren't just about turkey and trimmings; for us, it's Friendsgiving—a blend of cultures, love, and a dash of theatrical adventure. This year, our eclectic group of friends and families gathered for our very own celebration, learning the ropes from movies and tales about traditional Thanksgiving feasts.
Picture this: The table is set, kids donned in their finest, and a dad-friend proudly steps up as the Turkey Maestro. Meanwhile, I confidently turn to Whole Foods for an array of delectable sides and desserts. The feast? A triumph! But that's just the beginning of the entertainment.
Nine kids, four girls, decide it's showtime. A play unfolds—my daughter, the youngest, plays a tree. Yes, a tree with precisely two lines in a 13-minute performance. The other girls? They're fabulous—acting prodigies, a professional actress's daughter, and a special effects whiz (who happens to throw pillows and stuffed animals as props).
Act one finally wraps up, and as I contemplate the 250 dishes awaiting my scrubbing skills, I breathe a sigh of relief. But alas, it's not over! Half-time arrives—cue my internal dishwashing lament. Act two beckons, but I've got a kitchen to conquer.
There's a slight pang of guilt as I ask my daughter about her role, only to discover she's still the resilient tree. As much as I adore witnessing her on stage, the kitchen becomes my sanctuary. Did I miss the second act? Yes, but do I regret it? Not a chance.
Sometimes, amidst the Thanksgiving drama and tree-role sagas, a peaceful moment washing dishes solo feels like the ultimate luxury. Parenthood is all about cherishing the most pivotal moments, and for me, it was giving myself that quiet dishwashing break—a holiday indulgence in its own unique way.