Friday Reception at Sally's

How to describe the party? Open, welcoming, down-home, gracious, moment after moment after moment of delicious recognition of old friends. Maryanne and I agreed later that everyone there seemed to qualify as an old friend, even some whom we had not known as students. Sharing of stories was the entree of the evening- though the food took a very close second in the fabulous category. Stories were told of the good old days, lots of "Old 4th" memories, lots of Sr. PD, or Sr. FX, stories of coffee houses and jazz clubs, of curfews defeated, classes skipped, even classes attended and classes appreciated. I heard where people were on November 22, 1963, then, stories about the next generation, pictures emerged from purses, children, grandchildren, even, as in my case, grand-doggies!. Careers were discussed, travels, life adventures, Peace Corps, military service. There may have even been some discussion of politics or news of the day, but honestly, I didn't hear much of that- mostly I heard and saw individual person-to-person contact, true and intense interest in our friends and how their lives were unfolding. Missed classmates were pined for, deceased classmates were mourned.

The talking never ceased, unless one counts the time, later in the evening when Sally's husband Jim took over the grand piano in their lovely living room, to coax us into a group-sing. Several voices lifted together made the scene of conviviality complete. A warm and pleasant early fall evening could not have been ordered up from headquarters any better to suit the moment. Outside, hanging pots of flowers, and lighted candles and torches among the garden beds made a magical space as we circulated, mostly standing, with wine and champagne flowing from the large tables set up in the garage. And the food! Oh my goodness! Michael the caterer and his crew outdid themselves- lots of hor d'ouevres circulated as we first gathered in the yard out back. The buzz of female voices was punctuated often with laughter and even shrieks of joy. Sally and Jim, your gracious hospitality made us feel so welcome, your beautiful and grand home seemed designed for just such a gathering, a reflection of the outpouring of good feelings we all seemed to share. Jim, your piano playing was a delight- almost a throwback to an era when this was how people shared themselves. Several of us, myself included, remembered "sing-alongs" in our childhoods, before TV and later video games and cell phones took over our lives. What a grand style! Thank you for the entertainment and the memories!

Ah, but I have neglected to tell you about the dinner served: Michael et al brought out small individual salad plates which we wolfed down- so tasty. Next, platters of fresh tomato, basil and mozzarella, with I think , a balsamic vinaigrette dressing. A chafing dish of hot pumpkin ravioli- sweet and a dash of spice, just wonderful. Roast beef was carved at the table in the yard, with "weck" rolls in a basket, bringing back that uniquely Western NY treat. Later, we came in from the yard and deck to continue the celebration, now seated on cushions and floor, chairs, couches, hearth, anywhere we could find a spot. If there was a lull in conversation, I never noticed it. I know there was dessert, but honestly, I can't remember what it was. I think my senses were too overrun with the pleasures of the evening. Late in the evening, Sally's mother (95 years old?) came in to sit with us after a night out at a wedding. Shades of things to come! May we all be so alive at her age- perhaps we'll meet again at Sally's house at 95! I could go on and on....

---MJB