Time of Thanks (Day 1-5)

The last six months have been incredibly interesting for me, not the easiest and definitely not always the happiest. I have spent more time than not very frustrated, emotionally exhausted, and feeling like I do not have much to offer. Yesterday, I went out to the apple farms of Yucaipa with my friend Rachel and I was struck by the beauty of where we were. It didn't feel like fall, but it certainly looked like fall had arrived. The trees all had amazingly colored leaves adorning their branches, and the crispy smell of apples greeted us everywhere we went. I was once again reminded that my favorite time of year is upon us and instead of feeling excited about it, I am struggling to get into the spirit.

Folks on Facebook have started dedicating their statuses to what they are thankful for, and I think they have the right idea. I have decided that I will take the time to be thankful for what I do have and start listing them here. I have a few days to catch up on, so this first list will be a bigger one.

1. I am thankful that God gave me the best sister and friend a girl could ever ask for. She makes me laugh harder, scream louder, fight tenaciously, love intensely, and enjoy even the smallest things. She knows me just as well as I know myself, and she is one of the best listeners on the planet. She is a bright spot, and I do not know what I would do without her.

2. I am thankful for my puppy. She is the sweetest, most lovable dog. Unconditional love from a dog is the best gift anyone can receive, it is also the best band aid for a sad day.

3. I have two parents who love me with all they have, made sure I never went without even when that was hard, supported me in every sense of the word, and have made me who I am today. Saying I am simply thankful for them is an understatement.

4. I am so very, utterly thankful for Starbucks. Without that mermaid and her constant, steady supply of caffeine - some days would be unfinishable.   

5. Having grown up on the west coast, right next to the ocean, visiting her whenever I want - I can very much say I am grateful for the peace, sanctuary, amazing summers, lunch breaks, clarifying swims, and tranquil moments that she has given me. Some days all you need is 15 minutes at the beach to change your whole perspective.