I’ve never liked the holidays in the states because holidays here are all about family. Since my family is oversea, I always felt lonely during this time of the year 
What made me through every holiday sprite without family present was (1) long break and (2) big sales at stores (more shopping and more spending)!! However, since I met Mark, I didn’t have to feel such loneliness during November/December anymore. It is more fun to shop for someone special and see his surprised and happy face when he opens the wrapped gifts. It is a joyful moment.
This year’s Thanksgiving was very traditional to me because we hosted the Thanksgiving dinner for good friends at our apartment. Yay!! Mark cooked a very juicy & delicious turkey and other turkey-related items and I cooked the rest of “must-have” dishes at the dinner table. The dinner turned out great and we had more fun games after the full-stomach dinner. It was very first time for me to see how the Thanksgiving turkey was cooked from the beginning. Brine the turkey with a big plastic bag overnight in our refrigerator. The turkey was supposed to take out from freezer at least 2 days in advance.
This year’s Thanksgiving was the best and most fun day for me. I am very thankful Mark is in my life and I can share such a happy moment with him.
XOXOXO
p.s. I cannot wait for Christmas in Texas.