i am thankful.

I know i'm a day late with this one. But this time of year always forces me to reflect on the many, many things I am thankful for.

I am thankful for my loving family. They have supported me in everything I have done. I Love them all near and far and really do appreciate all the support especially during this past year.

I am thankful for my dad's health. This past year has been a roller coaster for my dad. He is so special to me and seeing what he has had to struggle with has been extremely difficult. A year ago this past wednesday marks the one year anniversary of his cancer diagnosis. He has come a long, long way since. He has had every test imaginable, had blood drawn thousands of times, had a few bone marrow biopsies, went on long term disability, spent a few weeks in the hospital, has had 2 surgeries, and TONS of doctors appointments. I am thankful he has shown me what true strength is. I am thankful he has never given up, despite what he has endured. I am SO thankful he is with us here today. and everyday.

I am thankful for my mom. Seriously, this past year has been the hardest on her. She has been so strong for my dad, my mimi and my entire family for that matter. She has truely carried the weight of the world on her shoulders. She has makes me want to be a stronger person, she is truely a testiment of strength. I am so thankful that she is my mom and that I have had her by my side through everything.

I am thankful for my Mimi. I am so incredibly thankful for the time I was able to spend with her, especially in the end. She was an amazing woman and I am so thankful I am able to call her my Mimi. She taught me so much about life, living and always kept me laughing. I miss her so much, especially during this time of year. Luckily, I know she is with me always.

I am thankful for my wonderful friends. They have all supported me in their individual ways and each and every way has been appreciated greatly.

I am thankful for my health. Seeing other's struggles really makes me feel lucky for the life and health I have.

I am thankful for Gar. He taught me so much about life. He taught me what unconditional love is all about. He gave me experiences I would have never had. He gave so much of himself to others despite his extreme suffering. He really was such a strong person. I still miss him every single day, I'm sure I will forever. But, I am thankful he was in my life and so thankful for the time we were able to spend together.

I am thankful for my boyfriend. Sure it isn't easy living states apart but all things considered he has been a huge comfort especially with Mimi and Gar's passing as well as my dads illness.

I am thankful for my two little nieces. They sure bring so much joy into my life. Even though they are 1,000 miles away :)

I am thankful for my faith. enough said.

Now for some of the smaller, yet still important things...

I am thankful for...

my new car.
my ability to go to college.
the beach right down the road.
good habatchi restaurants. yum!
good music.
artists who write all their own lyrics.
my job.
hot and iced tea.
wednesday night dinners at poppy and grandmas.
my lab/disection partner amanda.
lindt white chocolate & coconut bars...thanks gar for introducing me to these :)
my digital camera.
my cell phone and texting.
people who make me smile.
my comfy bed :)
rascal flatts and taylor swift concerts.
modern medicine.
my hopes and dreams.
the holiday season.
good home-cooked meals.
my love for cooking.
my laptop.
iTunes and my iPod.
my ability to be somewhat creative.


I hope everyone had a very happy thanksgiving!