Holidays Abroad

Moving abroad, I knew missing holidays would be one of the hardest parts.  I wasn't sure what to expect being in a different country, but have been pleasantly surprised in some areas.  Halloween was the first "western" holiday I encountered.  I was shocked how many places decorated, but the only places that actually "celebrate" Halloween are clubs and English schools.  Our school had costumes, a haunted room, games, and lots of candy from the homemade pinatas.  Here are some pictures from Halloween.

                      

Halloween Party at work

Halloween Decorations mixed with Christmas at the "Amusement Park"

Thanksgiving was the next holiday, and I was extremely lucky to have mom and dad visiting.  It was an awesome experience having Thanksgiving together in Taiwan, and my parents even brought the ingredients for my favorite dishes.  We cooked in my boss's kitchen, and I think the Chinese teachers enjoyed trying some new food!

 Walking the food back to work

Thanksgiving in the school library

Being away from my family during Christmas was rough. I worked a 10.5 hour day.  Not what I call a holiday!   It was definitely the time I've missed home the most, but I have been blessed with amazing family and friends that still made it special.  I had a tree, complete with presents underneath.  I also received an awesome gift basket from the best aunts and uncles.  My mom even organized collecting Christmas cards from friends and family across the states.  While I still missed home, all of these details made it much better.  FaceTime also played a small part :)