Thanksgiving Reflections - 400 Years and a World Away

As an American living in Sweden, November always brings a quiet reminder of Thanksgiving - a holiday that, at its heart, is all about gratitude, resilience, and togetherness. Though it's not a Swedish tradition, I find it rather wonderful to pause for a moment and reflect on the good in our lives, no matter where we are.

My ancestor, William Bradford, sailed to America on The Mayflower and helped lead the Pilgrims through an unimaginably difficult first winter in the New World. Many didn't survive, but those who did owed much to Squanto, a member of the Wampanoag people and a true friend. He taught them how to grow crops, find food, and live off the land - and, thanks to his kindness and wisdom, they made it through.

When spring came, they stopped to reflect on their blessings. Together - the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag - they shared a feast to give thanks for the harvest and for their survival. That moment, nearly 400 years ago, became the first Thanksgiving.

Fifteen years ago, I made the opposite journey of my ancestor - from America to Europe - and somewhere along the way, Sweden became home. It feels beautifully full-circle that my life here has connected me back to The Mayflower in a different way. At The Mayflower, we carry that same spirit of gratitude and perseverance. We believe in "Bloom where you're planted" - finding beauty, kindness, and thankfulness right where you are.

So when Thanksgiving comes around each year, I celebrate in my own way. My family's table has a blend of traditions. There's turkey and pecan pie, of course, but also something sweetly Swedish, like a slice of warm äppelkaka. It's a little reminder that gratitude transcends borders.

This year, I'm thankful for the people I've met, the home I've built, and the chance to keep blooming right here in Sweden - 400 years and a world away from where it all began.

Happy Thanksgiving - wherever you may be.