When Ira and Michael invited Rebecca Stone for Thanksgiving, nothing was further from their minds than her bringing Ira's Father for a visit, although refusing a ride from the airport should have been the first clue.
They rushed to the door after the bell rang. There they were, "We're here," Rebecca said with her arms open for hugs. Michael rushed up for the first hug and guided her in the house. After a long pause, "Hi Son," Jacob offered, "you look well." "You too Dad."
After a what seemed like an eternity, "Can I come in?" "Sorry, of course. You and Mom are going to be in the second bedroom on the left ... Let me take your bag." 'I got it, thanks." and Ira's Dad carried it into the guest bedroom.
"Pictures don't do your home justice," Rebecca gushed. She caught Jacob rolling his eyes and shot him "the look," everyone caught it, especially Jacob. "You guys did really well for your selves." "Thanks Dad ... so how was your trip?" Ira thought it would be best to keep conversation superficial and small.
After a day of traveling, the Stones retired about 10:00 p.m. (that was midnight Chicago time). In the morning, Jacob joined the others in the kitchen. The smell of fresh brewed coffee, French Toast made from home made bread, fresh squeezed orange juice and scrambled eggs put a huge smile on his face. "Now this is what I call breakfast, how come you don't make this at home Becca?" "Our Boys made you this feast, not me." He got a sheepish grin on his face and replied "I guess that's why I don't get this at home." It was the most playful Ira had seen his Dad in years.
Michael had printed up Google Maps to LA Art and Auto Museums so that the Stones could enjoy the day while he and Ira prepared for Thanksgiving dinner. Upon their return, the home spelled of sage, rosemary and thyme. Jacob noticed the table was set for eight. "Who's coming for dinner?" "A few friends, really nice people." Shortly after, Paul, Cathy, Pam, and Stu came in clucking. "Wow, everything smells great." "Glad I starved all day for this." "I'll diet tomorrow." "I'm moving in."
After the introductions, Michael brought out a tray of hors d'ourves and Chardonnay with toasts to the holiday season. By the end of dinner, everyone groaned from too much food, and yet, they all had room for coffee and home made pumpkin pie.
That evening was as perfect as they come, in fact, the entire weekend was perfect and would become a yearly tradition.
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