Thursday 23 November was just another ordinary day here in London. But every American was aware that it was Thanksgiving Day and we intended to celebrate properly. Two of my American friends, Meredith and Stephanie, share a flat in north London and decided to host a dinner for whomever wanted to experience this quintessential American tradition. In the end 16 people showed up at their cozy, that is, tiny, apartment. Only five of the group were actually Americans, but no matter--it was fun to be with some of our foreign friends who were experiencing their first Thanksgiving dinner. We had all the typical dishes, including turkey, stuffing, rolls, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce and green bean casserole. At first I was doubtful that we'd have enough food, but in the end everyone ate until they were full, which is exactly how it should be on Thanksgiving.
This was the first time I had been away from home for Thanksgiving, but since it had to be that way this year, I am glad I was able to celebrate here with such a great group of people.

Delicious! Meredith did a fabulous job with the turkey.

Jon had a bit of a hard time cutting the turkey with a small steak knife. But students on a budget don't have money to buy a proper carving knife--we have to make due with the bare essentials!

Digging in!
Sylvia (Hong Kong), Sarah and David (UK)

A little of this, a little of that...
Karina (Germany) and Krissa (Greece)

Stephanie is VERY excited about mashed potatoes.

Some of the Thanksgiving rookies: Marta (Latvia), Mona (Egypt), and Karina

Gina (Figi) loves the drumstick.

Who needs chairs around a table? The coffee table and floor work just fine!
(Yes, that is a washing machine in the kitchen.)

The Americans in the group: Stephanie, Jessica, me, Jon, Meredith.

After.