The rich aroma of turkey fills the air, mingling with the sweet scent of pumpkin pie as I stand in the kitchen, watching my mother work her magic. Today is a special day, a double celebration of Thanksgiving and my sixteenth birthday, and the house is a whirlwind of activity. The long dining table is covered in a festive white tablecloth, adorned with a cornucopia of colorful fruits and vegetables that look almost too perfect to eat.
“Zig, can you grab the butter from the fridge?” Mom calls over her shoulder, her hands busy whisking something in a bowl. She’s wearing a red apron with little turkeys on it, and her hair is pulled back in a messy bun, a few strands falling around her face.
“Sure, Mom,” I reply, opening the fridge and reaching for the stick of butter. I can’t help but smile as I watch her bustle around the kitchen, her energy infectious. She’s been planning this day for weeks, excited to celebrate both the holiday and my birthday.
I place the butter on the counter and take a moment to lean against the cool marble. “So, what’s on the menu besides the turkey? You’re going all out this year,” I say, my eyes drifting to the various dishes already prepared on the countertops.
“Mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, stuffing, and, of course, the pumpkin pie,” she lists, her face lighting up. “And don’t forget the pecan pie—your favorite!”
I chuckle, the thought of my favorite dessert making my mouth water. “I’m definitely looking forward to that.”
“Zig, could you help me with the table?” Eden pops her head into the kitchen, her arms full of mismatched plates. She’s wearing a sweater that’s slightly too big, a faded red that matches the season. “I swear, Mom, every time I turn around, there’s more stuff to carry.”
“Just bring them in, Eden! I’ll arrange them,” Mom replies, her voice cheerful as she wipes her hands on her apron. “We want everything to look nice for dinner.”
I smile at my sister, amused at her exasperation. “Don’t worry; you’ll survive. Just think about how much food we’ll get to eat.”
Elijah saunters in, a mischievous grin on his face. “Hey, Zig, ready for some birthday fun later? We’re going to have cake and presents after dinner, right?”
“Right,” I reply, feeling a rush of excitement. It’s nice to have a birthday to celebrate among all the holiday chaos, and I can’t wait to see what they’ve picked out for me this year.
“Don’t forget to save room for dessert!” Mom chimes in, her voice lighthearted. “This is a special day, and we have to celebrate properly.”
After we finish setting the table, the doorbell rings, and Mom rushes to answer it. I can hear voices outside—friends and family arriving. The sounds of laughter and chatter fill the air, and soon the living room is packed with a mix of our relatives, friends, and a few neighbors.
“Zig! Happy birthday!” Sloane calls as she walks through the door, her hair down and flowing in soft waves, a bright smile lighting up her face. She’s holding a small gift wrapped in shiny blue paper.
“Thanks, Sloane!” I reply. “You didn’t have to bring me anything.”
“Of course I did,” she says, playfully nudging me with her shoulder. “I wouldn’t miss your birthday for the world. Besides, I can’t let you forget I’m the best gift-giver here.”
I laugh, a warm feeling settling in my chest. “I wouldn’t dream of it.”
Eden drags Elijah over to join us, and soon we’re all talking and laughing, the energy in the room bubbling with excitement. Everyone gathers around the table, and as we sit down to eat, I take a moment to look around at the faces I love most—my family and friends, their smiles radiant, their laughter echoing in the cozy dining room.
“Okay, everyone, let’s give thanks before we eat!” Dad says, standing up at the head of the table, his voice calm and steady, and I can see the joy in his eyes as he looks around at all of us. “Zig, since today is your birthday, why don’t you lead us in prayer?”
I feel a rush of warmth and a hint of nervousness as I nod. “Alright.” I take a deep breath, gathering my thoughts as I bow my head. “Thank you, God, for this day, for our family, and for the food we’re about to share. I’m grateful for my friends and everyone who could be here today. Please bless this meal and keep us together. Amen.”
“Amen!” everyone responds, and I lift my head, a shy smile on my face.
The food is delicious, each dish bursting with flavor. As we dig into the turkey and sides, laughter fills the room, stories are shared, and I can feel the warmth of family surrounding me. I glance at Sloane, who catches my eye and smiles knowingly.
After the plates are cleared, it’s finally time for dessert. Mom brings out the cake—a rich chocolate creation, adorned with sixteen candles. The room erupts into cheers and claps as she sets it down in front of me.
“Make a wish!” she prompts, her eyes twinkling with excitement.
I close my eyes and think hard, letting my mind drift for a moment. When I open them, I blow out the candles, the flame flickering and dancing before it extinguishes.
“Happy birthday, Zig!” they all chant, and I can’t help but beam, feeling a mix of joy and gratitude.
“Now, let’s see what you got!” Eden says, leaning over to snatch the first gift. I start unwrapping my presents, each one a little surprise.
Sloane hands me her gift, and I carefully peel away the wrapping paper. Inside is a new skateboard, slick and polished with a vibrant design that immediately makes me grin. “This is awesome, Sloane! Thanks!”
“Thought you’d like it,” she replies, her face lighting up. “Now you can show off at the park.”
I chuckle. The gifts keep coming—books from Eden, a new baseball glove from Elijah, and a hand-knit scarf from Elizabeth.
As the evening winds down and everyone begins to leave, I lean back against the couch, feeling a mix of exhaustion and happiness. The kitchen is filled with the remnants of a feast, the sweet scent of cake still lingering in the air.
“Best birthday ever?” Sloane asks, plopping down next to me, her eyes sparkling.
“Definitely,” I say, smiling at her. “Thanks for being here.”
“Always,” she replies, nudging my shoulder. “And hey, next year, we’re going bigger.”
“Deal,” I say.
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