Merry Christmas, everyone! Or, should I say happy Thanksgiving to my American friends? Because that’s what Christmas in The Netherlands feels like to me. It’s my first time in Holland with my Dutch boyfriend, and we’re celebrating with his family in the south of the country. And I already see some stark differences during my short time here—decorations aren’t as over-the-top as in the U.S., a nativity scene sits under the tree rather than gifts, and there aren’t any stockings lining the hearth of the fireplace. Instead, the winter holiday in this country is a three-day affair starting with midnight mass on December 24, followed by two days of eating good food and imbibing strong drinks with family and loved ones.

And that, to me, equals Thanksgiving...

I think that Sinterklaas (Saint Nicolas) on December 5th is more up America’s alley with gifts and songs and a jolly old bearded man who delivers toys by night. I have to say, though, that it does feel a bit more meaningful to celebrate the holy Christian day by quietly contemplating the season the way the Dutch do. My country could probably stand to learn from this country’s example.

But, with that said, it did feel reassuring after I saw some colorful boxes start to appear under the tree next to the nativity set in my honor. I may appreciate the Dutch culture, but some of my traditions are American, through and through!