I had a friend named Phillip in grade school who thought it would be funny to remove the head of his sister's doll and put it in the oven when no one was watching. The gag was simple, someone would open the door to slide in a casserole or a massive turkey... and there would be (gasp!) a head in the oven! It was the kind of joke kids play in 4th grade, the busy kitchen and particularly large Thanksgiving crowd would mean more laughs. Problem was, 4th graders are easily distracted and quickly move on to other merriment - and 4th graders do not consider that ovens are often preheated. I wasn't there, so I cant tell you who smelled the melting plastic or the singed hairs first, or if anyone screamed seeing the grotesque melted face, but Phillip told me on Monday he "got grounded from Thanksgiving forever".
Thanksgiving is going to be different this year for most of us, with many of us feeling grounded, perhaps in two ways. Sitting down to write you I find myself thinking back on past holiday feasts and Thanksgiving memories I've shared over the years. And while this year will likely see less pomp and preparation, I hope that the potential intimacy of smaller gatherings is something special that we can all embrace, and truly celebrate in its own right.
We'll surely miss the warm, lively crowds in the shop, curating and collecting bottles for their feasts and festivities in the weeks ahead, but we are eternally grateful for those who remain connected to this shop and who keep this space, this joy alive. With businesses closing all around the city, the profound gratitude we have this particular year is immeasurable. We are thankful simply to be. Thankful to keep our doors open and to still have a place in this amazing community. We are here for you and because of you. We remain honored and delighted to be your shop - and a part of your celebrations, whatever size or shape this year.
With all our thanks and deepest appreciation,
Daniel and the OAKLAND YARD family
HOLIDAY HOURS
OPEN TODAY - SUNDAY REGULAR HOURS 11-6PM
*OPEN MONDAY 11/23 12-6PM*
OPEN TUESDAY 11/24 & WEDNESDAY 11/25 *11-7PM*
OPEN THANKSGIVING DAY 10AM-2PM