It's a little late, but... I decided to roll my "Holy shit I've been in Korea for 2 years!" and "Hey, it's Thanksgiving back in America!" posts into one. Basically, I'm thankful for:
- the fact I can live in Korea, on my own, doing what I want, without really having to worry about money. I was lucky enough to get a couple well-paying jobs after college. I paid off all my student debt in a year, sold my old car & bought a new car, and still managed to save enough in 5 years that I can live comfortably here in Korea (not completely carefree, mind you, but...well enough). I know lots of people struggling to find a job, or to pay back student loans... so I'm glad I was able to do that.
- my new friends in Korea. I'd be lost without my roommates, in particular. We've been living together about 21 months, but it feels like so much longer. They're really like family. But, I'm also happy to have met my other friends as well, including my new ones from grad school. When I'm feeling down, they make me laugh or take me out for dinner or a drink (or both). I'm especially thankful for all the Koreans that either suffer speaking English with me, or suffer listening to my attempts at speaking Korean. (I'm really not sure which is worse for you guys.)
- did I mention the fact that I *can* live half a world away from my hometown? Honestly, I knew growing up that I didn't want to stay in Smalltown USA forever, but Korea? I didn't see that coming, but it's worked out well. Sometimes it sucks (mainly due to differences in cultural expectations), but it's starting to feel like home.. But, I'm glad my parents are supportive. I probably would've moved to Korea even if they hadn't approved, but I don't know that I could've stayed here so long without their support. It's nice to know I have a place to come back to, should things not work out here in Seoul.
- my boyfriend. Oh wait, I don't have one. Going to work on that this year, I think, finally. One thing I'm not thankful for: terrible, terrible eyesight. So... step one: contacts. They're really not as bad as I remember, though I suppose it has been 20 years since I last tried to wear them.^^ I think it gives me slightly more confidence, so we'll see how that goes.
But, basically, if you're reading this, and you know me in person... well, thanks for being my friend^^ Sadly, I only see most of you on Facebook these days, but it's still nice to see what people are up to. Keep in touch^^
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