Thanksgiving 2010

2010 marks the third Thanksgiving I've been in Korea. While I don't miss many things from America, I do miss being home for this holiday. I miss waking up early in the morning and starting a pot of coffee as I prepare the bird. Then, as the first pot of coffee is finally done, the turkey prep is finished as well and it's time to make the house smell like heaven by baking a bird all day.

Out of all the celebrations and gatherings, this is the one that still means the most to me, since it's about friends, family, and time together (and of course shopping). There's just something special about getting together with family in person that can't be matched by hooking up Skype and chatting over the Internet. It's the primary reason why Jo and I still venture back to the US every now and again to visit my family (her family is over on this side of the world and we see them more often).

But I don't go around all mopey come American Thanksgiving Day. That's mainly because I have to work and put on the awesome show that is Steve Teacher. Also, back in September Korea celebrated Chuseok (추석). The day is usually billed as the Korean Thanksgiving, and while not completely accurate, it is how I've come to think of it. Especially since we got nearly a full week off this year. It's also a great day to spend with friends and other expats that don't have relatives to go see in Korea.

On Friday morning (Thanksgiving Day in the US), I'll be making some calls to family and friends around the US. I'll spend most of tomorrow, being thankful for all my friends, family, supporters, and Jo.

What are you thankful for this year?