Growing up, my grandmother’s house was always the default venue for family gatherings. She had the right temperament to put up with crabby relations, and she has always been a great cook to boot. Some of my fondest memories are still inextricably linked to that modest home. I remember rushing to finish Thanksgiving dinner just in time to watch the Detroit Lions playing football on TV.
These days, grandma is no longer expected to play hostess over the holidays. My parents, siblings and cousins all do our best to pay her back for the great times we had as children. For my part, I buy her a few new jar candles for her birthday each year. The candles have taken up a prominent place on the coffee table, and, when the tops are removed, their scents are simply divine.