Family boundaries and celebrations: Why exclusion from a dinner plan led to a difficult decision regarding a birthday event

the arrangement of Eleanor’s favorite white peonies and roses. I ensured the champagne was chilling at exactly the right temperature and that the seven-course tasting menu was confirmed. The three-tiered birthday cake—a masterpiece of Italian craftsmanship I had commissioned—sat ready to be unveiled.

“Is everything to your satisfaction, Signora Caldwell?continue reading …