Turkeys, pies, casseroles and countless bottles of wine, the Great American Feast is just weeks away. So far, I have a 16kg pumpkin and have secured my order for tables, chairs, glasses, plates etc from the catering company. Invitations have nearly all gone out. It will be a true international celebration of all things food!
I managed to feed and entertain 40 people last season. Let’s just say that I’ve gone a tad overboard this year….just a tad (Madwoman alert). Even my own mother, who can easily throw together a banquet for 20 with her eyes closed, raised the proverbial eyebrow in astonishment (or was that dismay?) once I uttered the potential headcount this year.
So the conversation went something like this: Nat: So, mom, have you started planning for Thanksgiving this year? Mom: Not yet, I will put something together in a couple of weeks, not planning to do anything big this year…..Are you doing that dinner again? Nat: Yup, I’ve invited XX people so far. Mom: OMG, for the dinner??? Oh Jeezus!!! hmmm…good luck…
Truth be told, I don’t think everyone will come. I was in Amman the other day and a friend says to me ‘I heard about your crazy dinner Thanksgiving Dinner, it is the most sought after invitation around the office’!! Others have said ‘Yay!! I’m glad we made the list this year!’ I’ve got folks coming in from 3 countries so far: Cyprus, Jordan and Gaza (ok, territory/UNESCO recognized State). It all just adds to the excitement. I’m thrilled actually! For Americans living in a foreign country, Thanksgiving is a coveted event – a ‘must celebrate’ holiday. However, for me, the American Host who loves to cook, it is my duty to make sure all bellies are full by the end of the night.
In this past year, I have had a few teary-eyed goodbyes to very good friends in Beirut but I’ve been fortunate enough to have made new friends. For that, I am most thankful. I cannot think of a better way to celebrate these important relationships. So no matter how far away they come, I will feed them and there will be laughter and good cheer. After all, it is what I know how to do best.
Stay tuned!!
