I ended up hosting Thanksgiving dinner for my mom, sister, two friends and a friend of one of my friends.  This was not a planned event.  I was planning to have a quiet, relaxing day with my family, but I was persuaded to host when friends had no place to go.

In my past, I’ve hosted many parties, barbecues, etc. that involved so much preparation, cleaning, shopping, etc.  Since I lived with someone that didn’t really socialize, I gave it all up and only had very small, casual get-togethers.   This would be my first in over 20 years and I would have “mixed” company which I try to never do.  (I try to have people that know each other and have common interests together)

I tried my hand at spatchcocking the turkey and my sister made a new recipe for mac ‘n’ cheese.  Both were hits!  Everyone brought something that meant something to them, which created a very diverse and non-traditional menu but somehow everything worked together.   We also drank Mead for the first time together.

After dinner, we played several rounds of No Mercy Uno and Bananagrams.  Games were new to all of us which also added to the evening.  Conversation flowed easily over 80’s and 90’s music, television, commercials and more.  

I say all of this to say that my very Type A self-had a great time.  I was apprehensive beforehand, but it all turned out great without my turning myself into a wreck worrying about every little detail.   As a matter of fact, numbers were exchanged and further meetups are being planned.   Sometimes when you relinquish your imaginary control, the best times are had, and you can make new connections to people.   And, isn’t that what it’s all about anyhow?