Doha, Qatar
Friday, November 26, 2010
I received an invite for Thanksgiving Celebration with the promises of American Football (could it be so???) Since we worked on Thanksgiving Day, we celebrated Thanksgiving on Friday. When I arrive and the door opens I get the big wipff of Thanksgiving smells, ahhhhhhhhh.............. Marianka (South African) and Mark (American) the hostess and host are graciously receiving guest when I arrive. Marianka is cooking and has never cooked American Thanksgiving, she is having a houseful of folks and is a bit nervous. I encourage her and advise that I am just happy to be here. As I mingle around, there are other Americans, French, and British guest who will be experiencing this holiday with us. American football is being downloaded, I keep my fingers crossed as it has been painful not to watch football this season (my Eagles are not doing as well as I would like, and snipits from NFL.com has not been enough!) The tables are set and the feast is served, I must say that for a first timer on the Thanksgiving dinner Marianka has done a wonderful job
! We have all the trimmings as usual. Questions are asked about this American holiday and we explain Pilgrims and Indians and sharing and feasting and being thankful for the life they had. Everyone then takes a turn to share what they are thankful for. This was definitely a sharing moment and the room was quiet as each of us listened closely to every word. A fine toast at the end by the host and we indulged in dessert. Now this was a wonderful thanksgiving feast!
Just like at home, with our belly's full, we engage in conversation, and games. The evening was full of action, laughter and fun. And...............no American Football! Seems the download did not work, this the usual issues here in Qatar when it comes to Football. I will continue on the quest of obtaining a way to watch!
I am thankful for Mark and Marianka and the invite! Until next time!
N
