We all know the original story of the thanksgiving tradition. The one with pilgrims that invited local natives to share a meal with them, right? Over the years, most have lost sight of what this holiday is meant to represent and have put their own twist on tradition. Our fellow Americans have opted to celebrate thanksgiving in November, but it’s now really more about Black Friday… because only in America, people trample others for discount TVs exactly one day after being thankful for what they already have! As for us, we always elected a relaxing camping weekend with whoever was brave enough to handle the fall weather with us. So, here’s where we press pause, rewind the tape one year and look at our last thanksgiving in Canada.
We were thankful that G-man, my favourite Aunt Cin, Zoe and our one-legged niece Ava were going to join this year’s celebration. Thanksgiving camping was one of my favourite trips of the year. It signaled the end of camping season and the start of dreaded winter. The fall temps were unpredictable and could range from snow & sleet to full sun tanning warmth. This year was a nice combination of cool nights and sunny days. At this time, Barb had accepted the job in Australia, but it was contingent on our VISA applications that were just submitted. It was still a long shot and still felt like a great fantasy, but I really thought I should be taking this more seriously. In the back of my mind, I couldn’t stop thinking this could be our last thanksgiving. In fact, this was true for most things I would do over the months ahead… last grass cutting, last Tobago trip, last snow shoveling! Sweet! Last snow shoveling! Well, some I celebrated more than others. Nonetheless, the last thanksgiving will be memorable for the pleasant camping and the amazing folks that spent the time with us.
So, what goes on in Australia for thanksgiving. Nothing. Australia celebrates the same thanksgiving date as the USA in November. (You’ll have to wait and see next month if there’s something you’re missing). We started our day with a nice brunch in town and a walk to the beach.
This was followed by a fine meal of ‘turkey’, potatoes, carrots, stuffing, garlic bread and some fine wine. Luckily for me, these are all things I can do on my BBQ.
Although we were missing some great company, a spicy caesar cocktail and the turkey tasted like chicken, I would say our first Aussie thanksgiving was a success and the camping turkey still gleamed brightly at home.
Looks like we have a new tradition.