Celebrations should be about the special day, the guest of honor, the accomplishment. Right?So why have they turned into food and entertainment competitions?
It begins with Thanksgiving, moves into Christmas and finishes up on Independence Day. Thanksgiving’s opening salvo goes something like this:
Question: “So how many are you having over for dinner?” Challenging grin.
Answer: “Somewhere around 12 to 14. I bought a 16-lb. turkey!” Victorious smirk.
Response: “A small group, then.” Pitying kill shot.
12 Is Never Enough
What?!? Since when is 12 people for a sit-down dinner in your home, that you shop for and prepare yourself considered small? Any other time of year, and I’d be hailed as a brilliant hostess, bordering on Martha Stewart-like greatness.
Why must I apologize if I don’t take a week off to hunt and field dress my bird? Hello, Sarah Palin. If I fail to prepare six varieties of pie, two kinds of yams, which no one likes, and grandma’s home-grown, organic, free-range pumpkin and hand-ground cinnamon soup (recipe translated from the original German, no less), I’m a loser.
December 26 or Bust
Christmas brings the same kind of in-your-face competitive attitude -- with the addition of gift buying and wrapping. You’ve won the game of mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the weariest of us all if you’re a complete wreck come December 26.
At Least Men Embrace Paper Plates
And let’s not forget the men. On the 4th of July, guys-who-love-to-grill fall prey to the same unrealistic expectations as women: the special cuts of beef, the elaborate marinades, the exotic seasonings and barbequing techniques. At least they’re perfectly happy with paper plates and plastic forks.
Don’t get me wrong. I agree. Nothin’ says lovin’ like somethin’ from the oven. I also agree to value the effort that goes into a multi-course meal for more than four. It’s hard work. Right?
And even cooking and cleaning for one can be a challenge! Thanks for the Sunday chortle!!!!
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Your Friend From Fresno