We had taken the kids trick-or-treating on Halloween, Meridith and Drew had cooked a fabulous feast at Meri’s house for Thanksgiving, and Drew and I were invited to join Meridith and the kids for Christmas. I remembered how, at Thanksgiving dinner, Meridith had asked each of us to name the things we were thankful for. We went around the table from Molly to Ben to Meridith. I was touched that I was on both of the children’s lists, but it was Drew’s sister’s speech that most astounded me. “I’m always thankful to have my wonderful children, and for my home and health…and sanity,” she said. “But I’ve been especially blessed this year. It meant the world to me to get to know my brother, even if I had to force myself on him…” She looked pointedly at Drew. “And I’m so happy he now spends his holidays—and cleaning lady days—here with us.” He met her eyes briefly, then looked down at his empty plate as though his sister’s open sentimentality was too much for him.
