Not Enough Chairs — Love, Laughter, & a Full Belly

I have the most beautiful daughter who has given up so much for me. She knew before my husband or I understood what this diagnosis meant. While John and I were processing the reality of no retirement together, and I was recognizing that I would never see the house we built together for the past 22 years finished , Genevive was planning to leave UVM where she had received a generous scholarship and stay home with her mom. Her life is in purgatory. I have such guilt over this but love this time with her. Were it not for this selfless act my life would be in the toilet! She challenges me to really live everyday in the present. We are best friends, the kind that finish each other’s sentences and cry at the thought of the other’s sadness.

So when her 20th birthday was approaching I wanted her to do, and have whatever she desired. Here is what she asked for … a dinner party where she cooks for others. Throwing a dinner party, and doing it well, requires planning. Her list was eclectic and kept growing. Our house is not huge so a sit-down dinner for 20 people would be a challenge. My other daughter Kaitlyn, was kind enough to drag several chairs from storage… I means who has 20 chairs in their home? The night was crazy fun! Genevieve is not your typical 20 year old. The phrase “old soul” comes up a lot and in her case is accurate. I’m so proud of the person she as become. I will take no credit. She figured out life so far on her own. I’m a dying Mother with few worries about this girl. What is sad to me is that when she will need me the most I won’t be here. She’s very sweet but don’t think for a minute that she will falter on her principals . She is discerning and patient . Can you tell how much i love her?

We lined up harvest tables banquet style. Several courses, a lot of wine, a lot of laughter…the sign of a successful party is when no body wants to leave. I’ve been to a lot of parties, I’ve given a lot a parties. This was one of my favorites. We almost didn’t have it because of chairs! Never let small details prevent you from celebrating!