"A little light ribbing wouldn't hurt," I countered, still hopeful. It was the celebration of my country after all, in addition to a show of gratitude to the world. I was entitled and he was eating food I had made.

"It's healthy to have a little lack of respect for your country. Besides, having a queen isn't all that great. Honestly -- and I mean honestly here -- what does she do besides wear silly hats and cut ribbons?" Maybe that was an unfair perception given to me by American media, but what else could she do?

"Just.. try the cranberry and the turkey together and you'll see what I mean," I said. Or he would end up spitting it out, if he was weird.