Canadian Thanksgiving

Is this weekend.

Back in Canada, my family will come together, as will most of my friends families, for a meal.  For my family, that generally means turkey and ham, a lot of mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables of carrots, turnips, peas, brussels sprouts, cauliflower (exact vegetables are subject to change..), and then pie or a crisp for dessert.  Mmm... I definitely am finding myself in pie withdrawal.  I haven't really come across appealing pie at any of the cafés or stores I have frequented.  I suppose I might miss the turkey, too, since it doesn't really exist here...

And of course I miss my family.  I wish I could join them around the table and hear about all the news that everyone has to share--so infrequent are the big gatherings that there is always a lot of catching up to do.

But I am neither there, nor are they here.  And honestly, I have had a sporadic attendance rate the last couple of years because of school or work as well.  The only big difference this year is that I am now in a different country. =P

Still, I am ever thankful.  Here are a few that make the list this year:

1. I am thankful for days that are still warm enough for shorts, but nights that are at last cool enough for sweaters.

2. I am thankful that, despite how the cafeteria food here is sometimes highly unappetizing, I am provided with both food and a roof over my head.

3. I am thankful for the chance to learn a new language, to explore a different culture and to grow as an individual.

4. I am thankful every time one of my students greets me by name with a smile, showing me that they are happy I am here.

5. I am thankful that I have a chance to meet and interact with such fantastic students.  They have their quirks and charms, and I appreciate them all.

6. I am thankful for new friends, new adventures, and lots of laughs along the way.

And let me return the question to you.  Stop. Think: What are you thankful for today?

Love and Hugs.

An Oarfish and Me at a museum last week.