Thanksgiving is the most important American holiday for this American girl.
I’m so happy to be able to spend it cooking, listening to music, and reflecting on a very surprising year (and it’s NOT even over yet) that I haven’t been able to sleep at night. It’s the time of the year that I get to marry two of my favorite things: food and family. Although I won’t be back home in the states, I’m still hell-bent on creating a special evening for the people I care about.
This Thanksgiving holiday is also extra special for me because it will mark 4 years of me living and writing from dreamy Italy. As many of you have come to know, I am so grateful to be here and take pride in meshing the two cultures whenever I can.
As I write, I have just printed out a seating chart, menus, and a work plan.
Unfortunately, I am THAT kind of girl. Thanksgiving is my final exam in the school of food and yes, I made a work plan on Google Docs to keep me organized, and on track. Every year that I do a big Thanksgiving, I find that the stress level rises, so in order to keep my Type A personality from hyperventilating, everything must be on a spreadsheet. Why the crazy? Because cooking should be a labor of love (at least for me), and I really want to sip my prosecco and baste my turkey without any pressure, or any rush.
It’s precisely why I cook alone.
This girl has worked super hard all year learning and practicing, and is very eager to show off her skills. I am so happy to share with you my final menu for the dinner and encourage you to let it inspire your dishes as well. What I love about this menu is that it can be made throughout the year, and not just on Thanksgiving. Next week, I shall share some photos, and recipes to help you guys get ready for all your holiday dinners!
From the bottom of my heart, thank you.
Thank you for subscribing, for sharing, for commenting, for inspiring me, and for being part of this community. It’s an honor to write for you.
Wishing you all good love and good food,
Joanie