Last Thursday, after nearly a month of prep and organization, we finally had our big, ALT Thanksgiving. Naturally, anyone was welcome, and by the looks of it, our Japanese friends really enjoyed the cultural experience.

Especially the part when I had to carve a rotisserie chicken (they were sold out of turkey at CostCo). Apparently, this is something not many get to witness in Japan, so many ooo’s, aah’s, and pictures as I cut the chicken. For me, I was instantly transported back to my high school days working at Boston Market. It was a glamorous job. 

Our friend, Yukari-san, closed her shop for the evening for our celebration on the condition that we purchase drinks. She closed her gourmet coffee shop for us. Buy a drink? No problem. 

The menu:

• Rotisserie chicken
• Stuffing
• Corn
• Green beans with bacon
• Macaroni casserole
• Mashed potatoes (my creation)
• KFC chicken (one ALT claims he can’t cook)
• BBQ wings
• Rolls
• Spam sushi (yup)
• Wild rice
• White rice
• Gravy
• Ratatouille
•  Pumpkin pie
• Sautéed pears (another of mine)
• Whipped cream from a can (not easily found in Japan)

After dinner was finished, we wrapped up the party with chatting, drinking hot drinks, and eating whipped cream from the can. It’s almost like we were really stateside. Well, except spending most of dinner chatting in Japanese, but it’s close enough.

All in all, a complete success. Everyone went home with fully bellies and wide smiles. And, maybe some amazing pumpkin pie leftovers to eat for breakfast the next morning…