Last weekend marks what would have been my family's 8th annual Oktoberfest party. Now I know we all had to sadly post-pone or cancel our events this year, but this one is my family's Superbowl.
My parents live in a regular suburban neighborhood in Northeast Ohio, but for one night in late September, it might as well be Munich. I'm not exaggerating. We're talking over 100 people dressed in dirndl & lederhosen, Oompah music blasting into the cul-de-sac, and All. The. FOOD. (oh, and beer-a lot of beer.) The woods behind the house are transformed into a German wonderland complete with tables festooned in black, red and gold (we have the traditional blue and white going as well), axe and cornhole throwing, and hanging candles in the trees. It's magical, and I love every second of it.
This year, we're having a very small, family only consolation party. And as usual, I've signed myself up for as much of the food prep as I can handle. Who am I kidding? It's more than I can handle! But of all the things I must accomplish in a day-work, exercise, toddler chasing, maintaining a household- Hunching over the stove until my back hurts, is the one selfish oasis I allow myself. So I'll end this week a little more haggard than usual, but much more fulfilled.
This weekend my siblings and I will be together for the first time all year. It won't be the same boisterous event we're used to, but at least we're together. And at least there will be bratwurst & beer.
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