Giving Thanks.

I can't tell if I'm tired, really full, or just completely overfilled with pure joy after today.

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I'd like to share what I'm absolutely and happily grateful for:

2. Mary:

My little sister is one of the most wise souls I know. She is stronger than I could ever imagine to be, and is always striving to make herself and others better people. Mary is so goofy and bold - I couldn't imagine living life without this great blessing of growing up with her!

3. The Twins:

These two...oh my. James and Jordan are complete opposites, while being so similar at the same time. I love talking to Jordan (sometimes late into the night) and James is hilarious. They offer me smiles and laughter that others will never be able to give to me in the same way.

4. Elder Creasey:

I can't explain how much I miss my little brother. I am extremely grateful that he decided to serve a mission. Although I am not able to speak with him, I can feel his love through his letters to me and know that he is doing right by the Lord. He is one of the greatest Christ-like examples I will ever have in my life, and I wish him all the happiness in the world!

5. Melanie:

She has saved me more times than I can count. I can't wait to be reunited with my precious little sister in Heaven. I wasn't able to grow up with her here on earth, but the experiences I have had at her grave have been sacred and unforgettable. I am grateful for a sister who watches over me like a guardian angel and listens to my hopes, fears, and successes. I am so, so grateful that we were sealed to our family so I can one day see her again and get to really, truly know her.

6. My Parents:

I am so grateful to have my parents. I'm am happy that my dad survived the scary ordeal he went through a few months ago, and even happier that he was able to more than fully recover. I know I cause them plenty of stress - enough to last a lifetime - but they will never quite understand how much I appreciate their advice and guidance. Although I don't always listen, I still love them and understand that they love me.

7. Zeke:

My cute pup has put me through more than I expected. It has been such a huge learning experience taking on responsibility for something that looks towards others for survival. He is seriously my best friend. He is loyal, and although he often drives me insane with his hyper and puppy-like traits, I love him more than anything.

9. The Priesthood:

The Priesthood has given me so much comfort throughout my later teenage and early adult years. I am so grateful to have a father that can give me blessings when I seek for comfort, or want my worries to cease. I am grateful for the power of healing and the blessings and safety it has provided in my life.

10. The Gospel:

It is extremely comforting having the certainty of knowing that the gospel is true. I love going to the temple and even just sitting on the grounds, feeling the peace and comfort the spirit brings. I am grateful for the blessing of knowing that Heavenly Father loves me, and not only me, but everyone, no matter what. I am grateful for eternal families, and the opportunity I am given to have one of my own someday. I am grateful for my Bishop and everything that he has helped me with and guided me through. I am happy to say that I belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and I always will!

11. My Violin:

If only people knew how much suffering ceased because of this beautiful instrument. Tears have stopped rolling, anger has vanished, and happiness expressed through the music I can perform on my violin. I am so grateful that I have my Grandmother Mary's violin to use. Often, other family members say her spirit radiates through the music I play, and I am so happy to hear that even though she may not physically be with me, she is with me in spirit.

12. Writing.

My other passion. Although I'm no poet, I love to write everything and anything. I started a book years ago (still working on it), and obviously have my blog. I love writing in my journals, knowing that someday, I might save my future children or myself from a mistake by learning from what I did years before.

13. Smiles and Happiness:

Smiling cures anything. I am happy for the ability to smile through anything, and I am grateful for happiness I receive from that.

17. Flowers:

And not only flowers, but the beauty we get to see here on earth. Whether it be looking at the stars, listening to the wind, taking a drive through the mountains; I am so grateful to be blessed with sight to see all these beautiful things and know that God created them for us.

18. Movies and Netflix:

If one only knew how many times movies and netflix have taught me a thing or two. I am grateful to people who create these movies, and especially for those who create them with hidden meaning.

19. My Job:

I am so blessed to have such a wonderful job! I am even more happy that I get to work with my dad, who is one AWESOME nurse!! I couldn't ask for anything better than this, and I'm am so happy and grateful that I am able to share my talents to help those in harm's way.

20. My Education:

Even though school is such a stressor and complete pain at times, I am so grateful for the opportunity I have to earn a high quality education and further my progress toward becoming a nurse in the future.