It's Beginning to Look A Lot... Different

Christmas tree finally put up on the 13th of December, presents bought on the 20th, and one Christmas special enjoyed so far. Althought the vibes are there, it just seems a bit off this year in truly getting into the spirit of Christmas.

Firstly, I'd like to preface this with how Christmas is viewed differently in South Korea. Whereas in the States, it is seen as a family holiday, it is seen as a couples holiday here. So, being single as I am, I will not be cuffed up to someone on Christmas Day and taking part of the "traditionally" viewed Christmas celebrations. However, there are still Christmas decorations throughout the malls and city landmarks to provide that warmth and cheerfulness of the holidays.

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Now, obviously, there's the factor that I live thousands of miles away from my family. My mother is the spirit of the holidays, always able to get the perfect gift for us and really embodies how to spread holiday cheer wherever she goes. I think over the years I haven't truly noticed that until now. She always wears her Christmas earrings while running her errands and watches some Christmas Hallmark movie on the couch in the evenings. Without being present in her daily joy, I have set aside being excited about Christmas this year and have felt as if it is just another day.

Additionally, I am not baking Christmas cookies this year. Every year, I would be volun-told to make the Christmas cookies for the neighbors. I really do enjoy doing this, don't get me wrong. I would blast Pentatonix's Christmas albums and make dozens of cookies. When I wasn't make them for the masses, I would also bake just because. I would make many treats to share with those around me as it is one of my favorite ways to get into the holidays. Unfortunately, no Pillsbury cookies will be eaten (raw or baked) over here this year. I will be purchasing a slice of cake in celebration of this holiday instead, still getting my sweet treat.

Another thing to make this season a bit different is I will have no presents to open on Christmas Day. Before you pity me, I am perfectly okay with no gifts. The reason for Christmas is not for gifts, but for the recognition of the birth of Jesus Christ. So, instead, I will be enjoying a slow morning in bed and a late night Facetime call to my family. Which is just as great as any thing. A gift in itself is just spending time catching up with those that I love.

Lastly, I don't get time off or a holiday break this year. Christmas Day, I am off; December 26th, I am back in the classroom. It is strange to me as a teacher who went to public school for all her schooling to only have the one day off. I am used to a few days before Christmas to after the new year being viewed as winter break. Instead, it is back to school the following day of the festivities. The trade off is that the 29th is when we finish the year and have the next two months off. So I guess I'll hold off on popping the champagne until after the school year is officially wrapped up.

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All in all, I am thankful for experiencing holidays in another country. It is interesting in learning how they are all celebrated, different or similar to how I grew up. It also gives me more of an appreciation for being with my family on holidays and spending past holidays with them. Technology is a wonderful invention that I will never take for granted as I can still be "with" my family and friends while overseas. No matter how far or how different our lives are, I can always count on my people to continue to show love to me, especially in the times when I miss what was once my "normal" life.

Merry Christmas to all! I pray you get to enjoy the holidays surrounding with joy and love!