Giving Thanks

Since Thanksgiving is an American holiday, everyone in France, including my family, was at work, school and going about their normal day last Thursday. The American expat community and friends celebrate with a community dinner the Sunday following Thanksgiving, so I decided that we would join them and have Thanksgiving dinner then.

Several American mothers were asked to come in and speak to the English classes for the French students to explain some of the ways we celebrate Thanksgiving and why. I spoke to a group of 3rd graders and explained how my family celebrates Thanksgiving today. I told them about how my family was gathering with aunts and uncles and cousins to share a large feast with wonderful dishes like, turkey, sweet potatoes, dressing and greens and more. For us it is a special occasion and we take time to tell each other what we are truly thankful for. We also pray together and thank God for his blessings. After questions were answered, we served pumpkin pie and the children sang a cute song about not wanting to be a turkey. (I had never heard it before, but I guess it was about Thanksgiving)

Leaving the school, I begin to think about all of the wonderful memories that I had of Thanksgiving, of family and friends back home and I decided to fix a meal for the family. As everyone started coming home, they were surprised to find me in the kitchen baking turkey, mashing potatoes, cooking cabbage (I still can't find greens here!) and preparing to bake a sweet potato pie. Daniele was the most surprised of all. I didn't think she cared as much, but then again, this is her last Thanksgiving at home before college. I was really glad I changed my mind and cooked dinner. Sitting around the table for the first time all week with the entire family was a blessing and we shared with one another what we were thankful for. We all have so much to be grateful for.

Here are some pictures from our community dinner last Sunday.