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Employee Stories: Two Thanksgivings

kcrow
Explorer B

When I first hired in for Reservations at Southwest, almost 20 years ago, I knew that working holidays is part of the job.  Just like with anything else, we adjust plans, come up with new plans, or do whatever we have to do to make the most of the situations we are put in.  After a few years, we decided two Thanksgivings work best. 

On Thanksgiving Day, I go to work and Southwest provides a great catered meal for us … all of the food with none of the dishes or cleanup.  Over the years the menu has changed a bit, but not much: Turkey, dressing, and all the trimmings with a slice of pumpkin pie or pecan pie for dessert.  My work family and I enjoy a nice meal while chatting about those Christmas gifts we are going to try and get on our shopping trips the next day.

On Saturday, I enjoy time with my family.  My mom usually cooks with me, while my sister-in-law helps out.  We enjoy a delicious meal while visiting, talking about Christmas and enjoying being together.  Of course for this one I have the cleanup and dishes to do, but it is worth it to all be together.

For most of us who work on holidays, it's not about what day you celebrate, it's about being together with friends and family.  I get the best of both worlds; I get to enjoy both my work family and my home family and two great meals.  It’s funny, but usually when we get calls on Thanksgiving Day, the person who is calling in apologizes that I have to work on the holiday.  I always say, “It’s okay, I don't mind” and I really don't!

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