2024-11-28 “Thanksgiving Together” for Shay (born 2001)

The easy part, by Shay’s way of thinking, was over. She had made the plans and coordinated everything to prepare for a peaceful, relaxed Thanksgiving with her friends.

With all of the behind the scenes work done, it was time to… interact. And there would be a lot of interaction needed! 

The core of the group was the time-travelers; Merritt, Emma, Hannah, Kent, Devon, Addison, Jacob, and herself. Additionally, some friends who had been part of Habitat Housing: Tia Thomas and Liza McDuffy. Additionally, Devon had convinced all six of her bodyguards to take part. Additionally, Logan Hasting’s twin siblings, Caleb and Chloe, who were starting at NYU in January would also be there.

And, additionally, her mother and father were stopping in for an hour before the meal to meet everyone on their way to a gathering among friends and business associates in the Hamptons.

Shay was as ready as she could be. The caterers had left everything as ready as possible and Emma had promised that, between the two of them, they could get it on the table. Feeding everyone was Shay’s least worry.

She had accepted the fact that she would blunder her way awkwardly through the day.

Everyone started arriving as expected. Hannah and Kent were first to arrive, explaining they had met for breakfast and taken the subway by themselves. The others from Brooklyn arrived next and then the guards and the Hasting twins came.

Liza McDuffy arrived next with Tia only a few minutes later. Shay thought everything was going well. Kent and Hannah spent some time with the guards; Kent and Eric had spent some time together. Tia drifted into that circle as well.

Shay noticed Liza seemed out of place. She went to her and introduced herself.

“Your house is amazing!”

Shay explained that her father bought it so she could be safe in the city. Liza understood.

Shay’s parents arrived and made an entrance. Most of the others seemed uncomfortable and retreated a little, but Devon stood with Shay and talked to her mother as if he had known her for a long time. Her mother seemed to enjoy telling him about her recent adventures.

After Shay’s parents left, Emma, Addison, and Shay served the meal. After the meal, everyone mingled and hung out.

Since six of those there were coupled romantically, Shay found herself with Liza and Devon. When Devon figured out that Caleb and Chloe were new in the city preparing to go to college, he dragged them into the conversation. Eventually, the guards dismissed themselves, but Caleb and Chloe stayed around a while longer. 

After a while, Addison asked if anyone wanted to play a game—she suggested charades or something like that. No one seemed excited by the idea, so she let it drop.

About then, Shay figured out Liza would have to take the train back to Trenton, so she made an offer. “Why don’t you stay over tonight? I have lots of pajamas and everything like that. What do you think?”

As soon as she said it, she thought it sounded dumb and—as usual—she felt totally awkward.

“Really?” Liza smiled.

Shay was surprised by her response, and Devon pushed the decision forward. “That’s a great idea! You two can have some fun, and you’ll be closer to Brooklyn for tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow?” Liza asked.

“Addison wants to have a ‘Pre-Christmas’ party and everyone has to come.”

“Really?” Liza smiled again.

So, Liza agreed to spend the night with Shay.

Once everyone left, Liza helped clean up, and Shay said, “I’m glad you are staying. I’m sorry if I’m an oddball. I’m sort of awkward around people.”

Liza shrugged. “You seem great to me. I’m so dorky. I don’t really know how to be social. I’ve never done a sleepover. I never really made friends like that.

At that moment, Shay felt herself relax a little. “So, we’re just a couple of girls who don’t know how to make friends?”

Liza smiled. “I’m sure that’s true for me.”

Shay smiled. “How about I be your friend and you be mine? We can do all the stuff friends are supposed to do at sleepovers!”

“What’s that?”

Shay shook her head. “I don’t know. Have snacks and talk about boys? Are we too old to talk about boys?”

Liza laughed. “I’ll ask ChatGPT what normal girls do at sleepovers.”

Liza’s Prompt:

“What do normal girls do at sleepovers?”

ChatGPT’s Response:

"Sleepovers can be super fun, and there's no right or wrong way to have one! They’re all about relaxing, bonding, and sharing laughs with your friends. Here are some classic sleepover activities you might enjoy:

1. Movie Marathon

Pick a theme—romantic comedies, thrillers, or nostalgic childhood favorites—and line up some movies to binge-watch. Don’t forget popcorn, candy, and cozy blankets!

2. Snacks and Late-Night Feasts

Make or order your favorite snacks! Try DIY pizzas, baking cookies, or just raiding the fridge. Late-night snacks always taste better with good company.

3. Makeovers and Skincare

Break out the face masks, nail polish, and hair tools for a mini spa night. It’s a great way to relax while chatting. Bonus: no pressure to be perfect—just have fun experimenting!

4. Games and Challenges

Play fun games like “Truth or Dare,” card games, or even something goofy like charades. Challenges like creating TikToks or attempting ridiculous trivia can bring out lots of laughs.

5. Deep Talks

Sometimes the best part of a sleepover is staying up late and sharing your thoughts, dreams, and stories with your friend. These conversations can be really meaningful (or hilariously random).

6. DIY Crafts or Projects

If you’re feeling creative, try something hands-on like painting, making friendship bracelets, or even putting together a vision board.

7. Dress-Up and Photoshoots

Raid your closets and try on fun outfits or silly costumes. Take pictures and have a laugh—no judgment allowed!

8. Dance Party or Karaoke

Blast some music and dance it out, or belt out your favorite songs (even if you’re not in tune). It’s all about letting loose and having fun.

9. Plan Adventures

Use your sleepover as a chance to plan future trips, goals, or even dream about the kind of adventures you want to have together.

10. Do Whatever Feels Right

The best sleepovers are about doing what makes you both happy. Whether you’re giggling over silly YouTube videos or just enjoying each other’s company in quiet, it’s all good.