Thanksgiving.

Spain does not celebrate Thanksgiving. I'm not sure it crosses anyone else's mind but it really is a quintessential American holiday. Because of that, our kids had school on Thursday and Nick had work. I did pick up three of the kids early to get home to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade which starts 3 pm our time. Andrea chose to stay in school and go to play rehearsal. Our little Judas is very dedicated. So, we were Thankful for Slingbox so we could enjoy the parade so far away from home. Plus, with the Lexington office closed it was easier for Nick to get out at a decent time. And I was especially thankful that Nick was able to find Christmas PJ's for the kids at Corte Ingles on his way home from work continuing our tradition for one more year.

Mostly we are Thankful that we were able to celebrate with several other families on Saturday afternoon. Our neighbors and fellow Americans, The Zieglers hosted all of us for "traditional" turkey with all the trimmings. She did call me frantically about 45 minutes before we were all to descend on her house to help her pick up the turkeys she had ordered from the market. Her husband Ted had disappeared without his phone while taking their son to a travel futbal game and she didn't know when to expect him. I was happy to help because while I had heard of this particular market that was rumored to be open on Sundays (I know...I should have found this place) I had never been there. More to be thankful for...when we showed up to find the 4 turkeys she had ordered spinning temptingly on the rotisserie. Our helpful cook!

Here is a picture of Jessica on the left and my friend Laurie on the right. She is also new this year and is in my Spanish class with me.

Kari and Mike

Here is Ted, the host, carving the turkey.(one of them anyway)

The boys enjoying some dinner.

The adults outside swapping Thanksgiving stories and various adventures.

The kids lined up at the dessert table waiting their turn at the goodies.


We have a lot to be thankful for this year. Our health, Nick's good job, some fantastic experiences and the opportunity to meet some fabulous people, who take you in as family and make you feel at home.