Reflecting on Two Years of Holidays in Türkiye

The holidays have always been a time for reflection, celebration, and connection. Yet, as I round the corner of my second year in Türkiye, the festive season has taken on new meaning – or more accurately, a lack thereof. While I can find Christmas decorations everywhere I turn, from public parks to shopping centers to restaurants and cafés, they are a more of an aesthetic nod, rather than a part of the culture. Here, in a country where less than 1% of the population identifies as Christian, Christmas is just like any other day.

In Türkiye, December 25th is business as usual. Schools are in session, businesses are open, and the streets are full of people living their everyday lives. Last year, I spent both Thanksgiving and Christmas in class. This year, at least, I only had to spend Thanksgiving in the classroom. But it is surreal to see Christmas decorations everywhere, yet not have any formal recognition of the day’s significance.

The Comfort of Tradition and the Sting of Distance

Last year, the ache of being away from family and friends during the holidays was dulled by the excitement of being a strong independent woman who was making her own new traditions. I hosted a Thanksgiving dinner for my friends here in Ankara and created all my favorite dishes. It was a way for me to introduce my new friends to some of the Thanksgiving comforts of home in the States. School was also a welcome distraction, keeping my mind occupied for the day.

This year, though, was more difficult. The longing for my family hit harder. Thanksgiving came and went quietly, marked by a routine class and the absence of the chaos of a typical family Thanksgiving. On Christmas Day, I met a friend for coffee, as I do every Wednesday. It was a small but meaningful gesture when he brought me a bouquet of daffodils. Their fresh, spring-like scent filled my apartment, offering a glimmer of joy in an otherwise ordinary day. At the last minute, I decided to treat myself to a Christmas buffet at one of the local hotels. Even though I was alone, it was a lovely meal, and I’m very glad I went. When I came home, I spoke with my family, who had all gone to Florida for a Christmas at Disney World. Yet, it was my two furry companions, Stormy and Smokey, who truly carried me through the holiday season. Their snuggles have been a constant reminder that home is where the heart (and purrs) are.

Gratitude and Resolutions

As 2024 comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the lessons of the last year. Living in Türkiye has been an incredible opportunity, one that has challenged my growth in ways I never could have anticipated. While I miss the familiarity of home, I am deeply grateful for this journey. The coming year holds the promise of new challenges: working on my thesis, completing my MBA, and navigating the ever-complex question of where “home” will be.

While I technically have until the spring of 2026 to finish my MBA, part of me feels like I will be ready to return to the States. But not so fast – there’s another part of me wondering if in the coming months, with a renewed focus on learning Turkish, my perspective may change. I’ve resolved to make learning Turkish a priority for 2025, knowing that fluency will allow a deeper connection to the culture and also make navigating every day life much easier.

Beyond the focus on Turkish, my resolutions include better discipline with this blog (yes, I’m holding myself accountable here) and stepping outside my comfort zone more often for social gatherings and travel adventures. Whether it’s exploring new places in Türkiye or simply saying yes to more invitations, I want to ensure I make the most of this unique chapter of my life.

Looking Ahead

As I sip my tea and the final hours of 2024 fade away, I’m struck by the beauty of living in the moment – of appreciating the present while planning for the future. I don’t know how long I’ll stay in Türkiye, but one thing is certain: I intend to savor every precious second.

So here’s to 2025: a year of growth, connection, and adventure. Wishing everyone a very Happy New Year! Or, as they say here in Türkiye, Mutlu Yillar!

Much Love,
Tiffany, Stormy, and Smokey