Things that I'm Thankful For

Thanksgiving is my favorite time of year! This year I feel that I have so much to be thankful for. I've had a really rough day today. Probably one of the worst days I've had in a really long time. Even though I've had a tough day, I'm ending it with the realization that my Heavenly Father loves me and is very mindful of my needs. In my lowest moments I know that I can cry out and ask for guidence, for comfort and for mercy.

Today I have also realized how strong I can be. Strong willed and very stubborn, almost to a fault. I can be so strong minded that I can become my own worst enemy. But where I am faulted I am humbled to know that I can change and make decisions that sometimes I'm afraid to make. Some things that I have come to realize: If I settle for less than mediocre, then I will be extremly unhappy. If I feel that I only deserve less than greatness, I will never reach my full potential.

I am grateful for an amazing family who loves and supports me. They make me laugh, cry and realize that I am truely blessed. They are my best friends. I have nieces and a nephew that have a piece of my heart and allow me a glimpse of what it will be like to love someone so uncnditionally. My parents are amazing individuals. I am sad that they live so far away, escpecially at times like this. I do know that they are just a flight, a phone call or a text away. My siblings are extrodiary people. Amazing. I am thankful for a strong older brother and beautiful and talented sisters. I'm thankful for the men that my sisters have married and that I have the privelage to call family.

I am grateful for a job that challenges me and makes me feel like I matter.

I am grateful for amazing and understanding friends who no matter how many times I fail, will pick me up and hold me up so that I may gather strength. I am grateful for the laughs and for the many adventures that I have with them.

Most of all I am gateful for the Gospel in my life and how we as imperfect indivduals have the opportunity to learn and grow in this life. I am so grateful for my Savior, Jesus Christ, who died not only for my sins, but suffered and felt my sorrows and pain. He knows what I am going through and that stregthens me and allows me to get through the tough times.

My brother-in-law, Kristopher's father was recently injured by a fall. It is serious and scary. My sister's in-laws are So incredible. Libby and Kris live far away from us and it comforts me to know that she has an amazing family support out in Utah. They are so warm and inviting and everytime I visit I feel as though I am part of their family... I guess I am in a way. When I found out about what happen to Kris's father, I immediately prayed for peace and comfort for their family and a full recovery for Dave. I was overwhelmed when I learned about all of the blessings that this ezperience has brought about. Kris was able to exercise his Priesthood duties and many fell to their knees in humble prayer. My prayers continue to go out to the Brown family. They are truely loved by so many and I know that Heavenly Father's servants will be able to bring relief and comfort. That is what ties us all together and for that I am extremly grateful.

I realize that this post is long and that I have used the word "grateful" a billion times. But I am so blessed and I would be selfish not to express my gratitude for all of the many blessings I have in my life. See....today wasn't totally horrible if I can recount eveything that I am blessed to have in my life. May you take a moment in a time of despair, lonliness, suffering or indifference to realize all of the blessings that you have in your life.

Have a Cheerful and Safe Thanksgiving holiday!

Love you!