Thankful

So. I know I'm about two weeks behind on this, but this time of year always makes me thankful.

I try to be thankful all year round, but today, in particular, I just did a lot of thinking.

So.

Family- Of course. To me, that's a no brainer, of COURSE I'm thankful of my family. But as I was saying that, I was reminded of a friend of mine who is in dire of need of telling his/her family something, and how right now, they are terrified for a negative response. Having been in his/her shoes, I'm reminded how absolutely amazing my family is. They've always pushed me, but not in a forceful way. My parents have always given me everything I needed, and sometimes things that I wanted. Growing up, I have not once heard them fight or even argue. My parents are still together, which seems to be very uncommon. My dad has taught me lessons that I continue to think about. With my parents, I've always been able to ask them anything I wanted. If I was curious about anything, I've always been comfortable to talk to them, and believe me, I've asked them some questions that make me hope my kids never ask me!
My brother and sister, both significantly older than I am, we're becoming better and better friends. I've relied on them for some various things and the advice they give me always helps my feet get unglued. My nan is living with my parents and she is amazing as well. I adore them. My niece and nephew are also amazing. I've never been around kids before. EVER. I would see a baby then wouldn't see him again until he was 5 years old. I've never seen anybody go from newborn and go through phase by phase, watching as they learn something everyday. Watching Maddie grow up and seeing the little person that she is today makes me smile from ear to ear. Noah, is still pretty little but I still like watching him. It makes me look forward to having a family of my own some day!

Friends- Again, sounds like a no brainer, right? But I've had some really great friends, especially this year. My friend Nick has taught me the value of self respect. To be a leader and mentor. To always be a helpful friend. Brianne has been a great friend as well, when I was going through the toughest times, she was the only person to ask if I was alright. Jim Bartruff, my adviser and theatre professor here at ESU. I don't know where or how I would be right now if it were not for him. I cannot believe him, and I mean that in the best way possible. I can't believe how many gifts he has given me. Various people around me help me out so so so much. I'm so lucky

School- I at times do hate school. With a fiery passion, but I try to remember that it's a privilege to be here. Some people aren't given the option to go to school for several different reasons, and here I am, not only at school, but learning about what I love. I remember this girl in high school, she was a very good artist. I saw several of her drawings and paintings and whatnot and thought she was very good, and I asked her if she was going to go to school for art and she said no, her parents were making her go to be a nurse. And I thought that was a shame. Hopefully she keeps it as a hobby.

Living today- We are in a very exciting and scary time right now. In middle school and high school, I remember thinking I wanted to live in the 60's and 70's because so much was changing back then. Well... I get the next best thing. Living today. I wish I was more active in everything that I do

So! Hopefully a year from now, I'll be saying how thankful I am that I'm in grad school!

Until next time.

-DML