A Few Fulbright Family Thanksgivings

What does Thanksgiving food mean to you?
A Russian "bracelet" salad with pomegranate seeds--sure.
Plaid shirt with cheese and cracker plate in the shape of Turkey? A solid Midwestern DO.
Aaaand Jello shots...? Why not?!

And I brought...salads.
Big freakin' Jones family surprise. I am indeed my mother's daughter.

Arugula salad, Russian salad, red cabbage and bussel sprouts, chicken, and, wait for it, mashed potatoes!
A mighty fine expat Thanksgiving feast if we do say so ourselves. 

   

Food and entertainment at the Thursday Thanksgiving dinner party in Gaziantep.
At one point in the evening I felt compelled to issue a disclaimer to our Turkish and Syrian friends that singing national anthems and country tunes is not a typical American Thanksgiving tradition. But I'll be damned if our stumbling rendition of "American Pie" wasn't heartwarmingly patriotic and culture-bridging.

Saturday festivities in Afyon with a whole buncha Fulbrighters!
A great reunion (with pie! pumpkin even!) and a beautiful moment to reflect on how truly lucky we all are to be here.
I made my personal "I am thankful for" shout out to all the spectacularly supportive parents and families out there (mine especially) who want us to be halfway across the world right now because they believe we're doing good things. You guys rock and make all this easier and so much more meaningful.

Hope everyone’s Thanksgiving was merry and bright.

(Yes, the irony of being in Turkey on Turkey Day is old/not very funny but thoroughly appreciated nonetheless.)