Giving Thanks for Urban Families

This week, I am undertaking what feels to me like a daunting,  yet wholly invigorating, challenge:  I'm  playing host to 12 people for Thanksgiving.

As readers of this blog know, it's been a whirlwind of a year for me, from heartbreak to recovery, new experiences, new puppies, and lifelong love.

Through it all, my urban sisters have been here for me. They've lifted me up, and they've lovingly fed me the bitter pill of reality when that's what I've needed. These are amazing women, people. Seriously.

So you can understand how magnificent is the opportunity (and the honor) to spend Thanksgiving with them. One of them is bringing her mother, someone I've longed to meet ever since I first heard about her. Another is bringing a precious new bundle, along with the bundle's grandparents, aunt and uncle.

The Willie Bird is being picked up tomorrow, as is the Fatted Calf Cider-Brined Ham. Nannie's Party Potatoes are making their annual appearance, along with another of Colin's family traditions: Macaroni & Cheese.

The ladies are bringing everything else -- Cat wrote up the rest of the menu here. Read it only with something to catch the drool -- you've been fairly warned.

So it's with a wide smile that I wish each of you a Happy Thanksgiving! It's been a good year for us here, and I hope it has been for you, too.

Go forth, eat well, and enjoy your turkey coma!

Tags: Food, Wine, Food & Drink, San Francisco, Oakland, Thanksgiving, Friends, 2007

Comments

[Catherine]

I am hungry already!

And might I say in public how very grateful I am that you elected to host us all, especially after I unceremoniously backed out? I suck. But you, my dear, rock.

[sam]

Thank you for inviting us into your home and giving me the opportunity to show my mother the true spirit of an American Thanksgiving. Looking forward to it very much...

xxx

Sam

[cookiecrumb]

I wish you all a great and joyous feast. Family, friends, sigh...

[Diane]

Life is a series of rattling experiences, isn't it! Like you, I've had a bit of a turbulent year, and like you I hosted a meal for 12 last night (I joked any more an people would have to bring their own chairs!). It was heartwarming to realize the depth of friendship I have gathered around me over the many years I have lived here, and joyous to share that time and to honor them by cooking and sharing good food, wine, and stories. As the year grows darker may the warmth in our hearts brighten to warm those around us, and be warmed by them.

[shuna fish lydon]

sounds lovely and magnificent.
so glad you have found your family
and they, you.

[Rachael]

You are so wonderful, and so right.

Happy holidays!

[Fatemeh]

Thanks for the warm wishes, everyone. I promise to post some photos of the table and meal soon... It was a lovely day, filled with laughter and wine and music. (Unfortunately, the turkey came out rather dry despite being brined -- methinks the oven is not calibrated).