The turkey story they never told you 🦃

I did my research, and here is what I found.

Thanksgiving has a complex history that's often simplified. The first thanksgiving-like feast in 1621 between Plymouth colonists and the Wampanoag tribe wasn't exactly the picture-perfect celebration we imagine. It was more of a political and survival-based gathering, where two groups trying to coexist shared a meal.

Historically, the event wasn't even called "Thanksgiving" initially. It became an official national holiday much later, in 1863, when President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed it during the Civil War. His goal was to create a sense of unity during a deeply divided time in American history.

While many romanticize the story, the reality is more nuanced. The relationship between European settlers and Native Americans was complex and often marked by conflict, displacement, and misunderstanding.

Well, as for a connection with Greece - there isn't a direct link to Thanksgiving. I am sorry Gus Portokalos!

However, ancient Greeks did have harvest festivals honoring Demeter, their agriculture goddess, which shared the core human impulse of being grateful for food and community. But this is more a universal human experience than a specific connection to the American holiday.

Listen…

I know holidays can be tough.

Some people are working through shifts, nursing old grief, or just trying to survive the day. Maybe your family is complicated, scattered across different time zones, or simply not in the picture. Some are battling health challenges, others are carrying silent weights.

No judgment here - just a moment of real acknowledgment.

Whatever you're doing this Thanksgiving - working, resting, remembering, or just getting through - it's enough. No performance required.

Now, about that turkey - buckle up for a culinary confession! Back when my kids were home, I had this killer roasted turkey recipe that could make even the pickiest eaters swoon. I wish I had photos of that perfectly golden bird. It was stuffed with rice, chestnuts, plums, a bit of apple that would make your kitchen smell like a Thanksgiving magazine cover.

Nowadays, with my kids scattered across different countries, my epic cooking adventures have scaled down considerably.

Are you still here?

I want to truly thank you for being part of my community. Your support matters more than you know.

🎁Remember my special invitation about your travel plans?

No pressure, no sales pitch. Just a chance to:

• Talk if you're feeling isolated

• Share which destinations you have in mind

• Get a quick bit of advice

• (And maybe, just maybe, hear about that turkey recipe)

Book this session before it expires (Click the Button Below). Sometimes, a short chat can make a big difference.

Warmly, Efi

P.S. You matter. Always. And so does good food. 🦃❤️