Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. I’ve never had Thanksgiving turkey before, told people why I’m thankful for them, or argued with my family members about Donald Trump over a drumstick (although I’d really like to engage in one of those debates). My Thanksgiving consists of mezza, kebab, and hookah, like every other dinner. Thanksgiving gives me an excuse to dress up all fancy and do 2016 makeup without being judged (I don’t care, I’m not getting into the dewy, natural makeup trend; full face till I die). The best part about Thanksgiving is that Christmas comes right after, and that’s my favorite day of the year.
I’ve spent the break putting Christmas decorations on every square inch of my home. We’re the most decorated house on the block (my father takes great pride in this). There are currently two flying reindeer, two singing angels, two huge candy canes, three sets of sparkling trees, a North Pole mailbox (for letters to Santa, obviously), a nativity set, and well over 10,000 fairy lights in my front yard. It’s quite the sight. Once again, Lebanese people, doing everything in their power to let people know they’re Christian (as they should).
I’ll be spending this Christmas with my boyfriend’s family, and to say I’m nervous is an understatement. Are they going to test my Arabic speaking skills? Are they going to quiz me with Bible trivia? What if I get nervous and don’t speak at all? Should I even be happy about Christmas, given everything that’s going on in the world? I’m most definitely overthinking it, and it’ll probably go smoother than my attempts at untangling those damn fairy lights after the holiday.
If there’s anything that will secure kudos for me, it’s my presents. I wrapped those gifts like a pro, I am not exaggerating. I actually had so many dilemmas picking out wrapping paper that I rewrapped all my gifts twice. Also, why is it so hard to tie a bow? Never been so frustrated in my life. But beneath all the insane wrapping, I think the gifts I picked out are pretty nice (I may or may not have stalked a few Pinterest boards, totally worth it though).
Most Arabs aren’t Christian, so they’re probably not going to relate to this one. But one of my favorite parts of Christmas is when my Muslim friends wish me a happy holiday. It feels like they’re kissing me on the forehead. Like yes I love you so much, sending you a plate as we speak. You already know I’m going to flood your comment sections on the Eid posts (Eid is like the Met Gala, but for Muslims, for anyone wondering).
