What's Thanksgiving in Cardiff? Thanks and giving, of course!

Today is the type of day that makes any American anywhere else in the world feel the weight of not being home.

All of us interns here at the Assembly foretold great sadness and decided to combat it with a makeshift celebration. We have a 15-pound turkey, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, apple crisp and lots of wine.

We all really wanted pumpkin pie, but that's one problem with not being in America at this time. Pumpkins are, quite simply, out of season here. Four of us scoured every store in Cardiff (and several in faraway cities such as London and Swansea) and even searched Online. No pumpkin pie.

As depressing as the absence of one little American Thanksgiving staple is, it's also a sharp reminder that we've been blessed to become part of a very different culture for a while.

So, while we give each other company and food and comfort during this time of separation from families and tradition, we will also be thankful. How many people hop over the ocean and spend a small portion of their lives submerged in lives so different from theirs at home? How many people have understanding families waiting for them to return?

Today has made me acutely aware of my blessings. Here, I have a wonderful job with unique coworkers filled with character and passion. I have good friends and a nice apartment. At home, I have the best family anyone could ask for and friends to match.

Without knowing to whom to address this, I shout from the very depths of my heart, "Thank you!"