Happy Thanksgiving!

I wanted to tell everyone Happy Thanksgiving, from abroad. Obviously it is not something celebrated here, so I will be missing all the usually festivities, but know that I am thinking of everyone and wishing y'all a happy one! Since I am not there, I decided to do a little list of things that I am thankful for. They are in no particular order.

1) My parents - I am so thankful that I have such an amazing set of parents. They are my world and have done so much for me. From the time I was born until now, they have always been there to help guide me down the right path, with instruction, with actions, with love. They have taken me on trips, and opened my eyes to other cultures of the world. They have instilled a faith in me that has helped me in life. They have continuously been there for me through the ups and the downs, no matter what I say or do. After 22 years, they have helped me become the person that I am, and have enabled me to do the things that I am capable of doing. Without them, I would not be the person I am, and I am so thankful for them. I love you mom and dad.

2) My family - I am thankful for this support system that has always been there. From my sister, to grandparents, to aunts and uncles, to cousins...these people have always been behind me no matter what I do. They are always "cheering" me on, to do all that I can do. They instill adventure in me and encourage me to be the outgoing person that I am and encourage me to "live life to the fullest." I can't say thanks enough for the wonderful family that I have. I love y'all.

3) The Fab Four & Branson - I am so thankful for this group of girls and the wonderful times that I have had with each of them. These girls have become part of my family. They are the people I can turn to when I feel I can't turn anywhere else. For some reason, they always have the right thing to say. Each and everyone one of them has helped me be the person I am today, whether it be by making me a more open person, making me a more stronger person, by teaching me to laugh through life. I am thankful for the many experiences we have shared together, the good times and the bad. All that we have been through has solidified the bond that we will forever have, and I can't say thanks enough for this. From the nights out, to the trips taken, memories have been made that I will always care with me. I am thankful for those memories, I am thankful for what I have learned through yall and I am thankful for each of you. Love you each very much!

4) My puppy dog, Abby - What would I do without this ever lasting bundle of joy? I am so thankful for my dog and for all she has brought to our family. She is that one person that is always happy to see you and always greets you with the wagging tail and licking of the tongue. She is the one person that you can talk to, and she will always listen. No matter how you treat her, she always treats you with so much love and respect. I love my Abby and am thankful for my little puppy dog.

5) My travel experiences - I can't be thankful enough for all the travel experiences I have had both those taking place now, and those in the past. I have been able to see the world and learn so much about different cultures and different people, while also learning about myself. I have also been able to meet so many people, who have become friends with and who have helped me. These experiences will be with me through life and I am so thankful for the opportunity to take part in them all.

6) My faith - I am so thankful for my strong faith that has grown over the years. Knowing that God is always there to guide me and to help me in the path to success is a great feeling. I am thankful for the many experiences I have had that have made my faith grow, and for the many people who have helped as well. My faith will always be there and I know I can always rely on it to get me through any situation.

Obviously I have a lot to be thankful for. I might not have written them all down but I am still thankful for all that life has to offer. I do want to take this chance to say thank you to all of you reading the blog, and for your continued support, while I am abroad. While it can be tough at times to be away from a place that I know so well, I know I have so many people behind me pushing me towards success. I miss each of you dearly, but enjoy the day, and be thankful for all you have to be thankful for.