Weeks before Sean left, between crying jags, Keren began to plan what she called our "Rejoining Party". In her words, "It's a party for Abba's rejoining of our family." Shortly after Sean left Keren began to make the menu for the party. It said "Chocolate, Coffee" because those a foods Sean likes. As it became clear that Sean would probably be home early, Keren made her guest list (I admit I suggested a couple of people, but Keren had the ultimate say-so). Keren's requirement for those invited- first she only included people who were local. After all, they had only 3 days notice. Second- Keren included only the people she said were "close to our heart". The menu grew beyond coffee and chocolate. She enlisted the help of a few friends to bring a couple of dishes. Thank you to Bev for kugel & mousse. Keren knew she could count on you for cooking. And thanks to Debbie because "you're so good at the junk food" for the chips, salsa, and guacamole.
It was a lovely open house. Jews being Jews, many friends brought more food. We drank some wonderful Japanese whiskey, and simply enjoyed being together as a family, not just us, but many of those "close to our heart".
