It goes without saying that having your parents around for Christmas adds a unique flavor to the festive season. There is the quality time, the shared laughs and of course the memories created.
My parents came all the way from Amman to celebrate the holidays with us. In addition to the memorable time we are having with them, we have also been enjoying the authentic Jordanian/Middle Eastern atmosphere they brought along.
Since my parent’s arrival we have been waking up to the smell of Turkish coffee and to the sight of olive oil and thyme (along with Arabic (pita) bread) on the kitchen table. For breakfast, we are eating Labaneh and drinking tea just like the good old days. Our dinners are no longer meat loaf and macaroni and cheese but Magloubeh, Koussa bilaban and Freekeh. Our stereo is no longer playing Thievery Corporation and Robbie Robertson but Nancy Ajram and the best of Arab Pop for 2006.
The New Yorker and The Economist no longer occupy a prime place in our magazine racks. Instead, they have been replaced by Layalina and other brand new glossy Jordanian publications. I guess in a way we are celebrating the holidays the Jordanian way. Life doesn’t get any better.
Wonderful to have your parents spend Christmas and New Year with you. What a neat way to start the New Year. My best holiday wishes to both you. Give your Mom and Dad my regards and tell them they are welcome to visit us in California if they are heading this way.
I just find it disturbing that the Middle East got more snow this week than the Midwest.
Hey Sous,
Good to hear from you. Parents and husband say hi back:) Send me an e-mail when you can!
Honestly, I got gooss bumps while reading this.. I’m happy Aunti and 3ammo are there. Mama saw 3ammo the other day at the jam3ieh, he didn’t say anything about visiting you!
Anyway, I saw Armanieh the other day, she gives you her best.
You have a wonderful new year, say hi to Jefferson and the papa and mama.. oh la la..