What's Thanksgiving?

It certainly doesn't feel like Thanksgiving around here. Some of the other American exchange students and I have planned a TurkeyDay potluck, but due to limited kitchen resources, I have low expectations. I plan on making oreo dirt dessert because that doesn't require too much baking. I just have to make the chocolate pudding. As Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday, it will be very hard to miss it, but as long as my mother remembers to record the Macy's Day Parade for me so I can watch it when I get home (THIS IS YOUR REMINDER, MOM), I will be a happy camper.

Manchester is in full swing Christmas mode though and I love it. The Christmas market opened downtown and it's HUGE! So far I've only been to the German market, but it is absolutely incredible. There's tons of food like sausages, crepes, waffles, strudel, and cookies and candies galore plus some tasty drinks. The German mulled wine is my favorite thing in the world, and I am definitely making it for the fam for Christmas. Even if my Dad doesn't like hot beverages.

My papers are coming slowly but surely. I have finished one out of 5, but I have it all scheduled out. If I stick to my plan I will finish all but 1 before coming home and then I can get the last one done in January. I saved the easiest one for last so I'm not too worried about it.

I am really excited about these last few weeks. I'm heading off to Paris this weekend, and although I've heard incredibly mixed reviews about Paris, I'm excited. We're definitely doing it on the cheap, as my bank account is dwindling, but from what I hear the bread and cheese is super inexpensive so I can probably live off of that for a couple days. However, I will be keeping my eyes peeled for an authentic creme brulee. After Paris, my friend Kristen is coming to visit from Turkey! I'm so excited to see her and show her around Manchester. She is coming at literally the best time to see the city since it's all Christmas-y and she definitely doesn't get any sort of Christmas vibe in Turkey. Then I just have a couple more weeks and I get to come homeee!!!! I absolutely can't wait for Christmas!

I hope you all have wonderful Thanksgivings with your friends and family. I am thankful to have you all in my life, even though you are all so far away.