Ryan and I celebrated Thanksgiving on a Sunday with over twenty Australian friends, eager to share this American tradition with us. There is something about celebrating a beloved holiday in a foreign country…
Having Thanksgiving in Australia heightened the meaning and significance of the tradition. Yes, we all have so much for which to be thankful. Not the least of which is our memories of Thanksgivings-of-the-past. I was overwhelmed several times throughout the preparation with memories of Thanksgivings with my grandmother and her always-present-though-somewhat-irrational fear of running out of food.
Indeed, our spread of food was overwhelming; two turkeys, ham, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, corn-bread stuffing, sweet potato casserole, scalloped corn casserole, honey-glazed carrots, deviled eggs, salad, and rolls — much of which was made at the hands of our Australian friends.
We finished the meal with teas, coffees, and nine pies! We had three pumpkins, four pecans, and two apple pies which were all delicious!
Ryan and I had the best time, despite a few obligatory meltdowns, preparing for the special day. We sent invitations (Thank you, Paperless Post), bought food, found recipes, bought more food, found flowers, arranged the flowers with friends, bought more food, and cooked our hearts out.
But it was all worth it. We gave thanks with our Australian friends over a bountiful feast. We gave thanks for our family and friends, in Australia and overseas, especially for those who’ve passed away but while they were here, they taught us the importance of gathering to share a meal with loved ones. It was a Thanksgiving to remember. And…we didn’t run out of food. Grandma would be proud.
Quite the feast! Love all those pies…..
Wish we could have been there again! Sounds like everything turned out great! We are so thankful we have such wonderful, thoughtful kids !!!