Hosting Thanksgiving

The planning, the cleaning, the shopping and then
The cooking and making things pretty.
The digging up toys for the grandkids for when
They (at last!) visit you in the city.

The setting the table and heating up food,
The waiting and counting each minute.
Then poof! They arrive and the day is imbued
With such joy you just sink yourself in it.

The curious checking of all you possess,
The snacking on foods you have ready.
The zen of the moment removing all stress,
So happy you’d like some confetti.

The playground, the playing, the laughing, the meal,
The chatting with guests over dinner,
The way that this holiday always should feel –
Whether pro as a host or beginner.

The pies and the cookies, the candies and cake,
The hugs and the kisses goodbye-ing.
The hours of clean-up, but make no mistake –
For the host job next year I’m applying!