Happy Thanksgiving?

Is it still Thanksgiving if no one in the country is celebrating it? That's a question for all you philosophers.

Although I have no celebratory plans for this day (though I may do something on Saturday), it still has me thinking about what I am thankful for. In fact, being away from home today makes me MORE thankful for who I have in my life. Normally, family occasions can drive me a little batty. Cooking all the food is so much work, and then when people run late, other people get grumpy. Everyone in my family has their own idea of a schedule and what food should be cooked and who is responsible for what, etc. Therefore, stress always ensues.

However, now that I am not there, I even miss the stress. Instead of worrying about that stuff, I have to worry about a stupid paper and my stupid sprained ankle (a story for later). Plus, I don't even get the down time with family afterward. I get to sit here, by myself, and read about the dumb Middle Ages or play dumb computer games.

I know I can't complain too much. I'm in Oxford. It's wonderful. It's beautiful. It's amazing.

But, it would be a lot more amazing if I were surrounded by the people I love. I just got a phone call to go out to dinner with few students, but it won't be the same. It won't be THANKSGIVING dinner, and it won't be with my family. Even the Thanksgiving-esque dinner we might have on Saturday won't be the same. The food will make me happy (as it always does), but the company won't be perfect.

Last year I spent Thanksgiving at my aunt's house with all my crazy cousins, Josh and my mother. It's always an adventure over there, and last year was no exception. Back then I hadn't realized that this year my mom would be going over there alone, Josh would be with his family in Ava, and I would be here by myself. It's....odd.

Therefore, I am thankful for them the most. The two people that love me the most, and that I love the most. I know they both miss me and wish I was with them, and that helps. My mom called me and we talked for about an hour, because we missed each other. I don't know what I would do without her in my life. Josh and I had a great conversation last night, and it made me realize how long I have been gone. I'm thankful he is sticking by my side. Very thankful.

In ten days, though, I'll be home. Ten long and wonderful days. But, as soon as I get home my life will be crazy for about three weeks, and then I will turn around and come right back here.
I'm thankful for this experience, however. No matter how much drama occurs, or how much I miss home, I'm still thankful I got this chance. I know I will remember it forever, and I know it has/will effect me forever. But some days I still wish I could go home at the end of the day.

A list of other things/people I am thankful for:

-Charli Anderson: my best friend forever, I have no doubt about that
-Karen Anderson: You are my partner in crime here in Oxford, and I don't know what I would do without you
-Oxford: God you are beautiful
-My grandpa: Stay stubborn and living, old man
-My godparents
-Being healthy (well, mostly lol)
-Being alive

Happy Thanksgiving everyone. Sorry if this post was ridiculous.