I consider myself blessed for the individuals I've met in the four months I've been here. Whether I see them everyday, every weekend, or every other month I feel like I've created a proper family filled with personality. I think this point is best showcased by our "Fine American Thanksgiving" celebration that took place on November 19th...because we all had to work on Thanksgiving Day...
It wasn't just an American expat affair. Scotts, Irish, Australians, New Zealanders, Koreans, and Canadians were all in attendance. We had one of the best potlucks I've seen which included fried chicken (turkey is a rarity here!), mashed potatoes, rice cakes, wine, stuffing, pavlova, and mac n' cheese: a true assortment of international fare. I loved how easily everyone fell into the merriment of a new holiday.
After grub we all marched together to the distant soccer field to play some good ole American Football. Unfortunately, it was too dark to throw anything at people's heads, so we opted for yet another twist: rugby. I'm sure we were the sorriest sight of rugby every played. Rules were hard to interpret and action in the dark became more and more difficult on AstroTurf. Eventually we had to quit the game due to shear confusion.
Of all the holidays abroad, I think Thanksgiving really rang true to home. Though it was many people's first time participating in the event, I felt like we had been getting together for years. I am so thankful for the friends I've found here. Homesickness hasn't been nearly as bad as it could be because, in a way, I am home.
(Sorry) Schmaltz at Christmastime,
-Bets
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