I've heard that as years go by, time seems to go faster. And I certainly agree. I think back to childhood when Christmas was so magical, when the crisp autumn air made Thanksgiving so wonderful. But you know what escapes time? Love. The love of a family. The love of friends. The love of Jesus. I wouldn't be able to tell you whether this years turkey tasted better than lasts. Because that doesn't really matter. What I remember is the hours of preperation I spend with my mom and sisters in the kitchen. The flour flying everywhere... the extra butter added to make everything just a little better...and worse for you! I remember that every year my family takes a walk around the park. And when we walk back into the house, the amazing aroma fills the air. I remember that my aunts sit for hours looking through ads for black friday shopping. And it makes me want to listen to "Black [and blue] Friday" by IV. And in this holiday season, I truly am thankful. I'm thankful that today, I had another opportunity to breathe. To see and to share. To love and to be loved. At the end of my life I don't want to look back and remember what shirt I wore for the Christmas picture... I want to remember the memories I share with the ones around me.
Just a few other things I'm thankful for...
My family-
Dad, the way you lead our family with humility and honor is amazing to me. I respect you more than anyone else I know. Thank you for all of the daddy/daughter dates. And even when I pretend that I don't, I always want to be your little princess.
Mom, I love that you and I have been able to be the only girls in the house. I love your consistancy. To know that you're talking to Jesus is so reassuring. I love that you're never fake. Thanks for giggling with me, for listening to me vent, and for always knowing just what to say. I hope to be like you when I "grow up."
Kate, I am constantly amazed by your compacity to love and cherish people for who they are. I love that I feel so comfortable talking to you. I'm glad that you're only an hour away...
Cris, Welcome to the family! You've been around for a while, but it's so cool that it's finally "official!" (If ya like it then ya shoulda put a ring on it...hahaha) I've always wanted a big brother. Thanks for filling those shoes. You do it perfectly.
Bec, My fearless, bold, and captivating sister... I love your passion for life. Your passion for people. Your passion for Jesus. I can't wait to see all that God has for you. Thank you for always encouraging me. And thanks for starting the journal/quote tradition. You have no idea how much it blesses me. I miss you. Like reallly bad.
Jon, You have incredible leadership skills on and off the field. I'm such a proud sister. And at times that may be embarassing, but I just want you to know I love you.
Dan, Dude, I love your meek spirit. Meek means strength under control. You have an incredible work ethic, and amazing wood working skills. I'm so proud of you. Thanks for letting me hug you.
To all my extended family: Thank you for being a part of my life. I wish I could name each one of you, but it would take forever! Just know I think and pray for you often, and I wish we could see one another more. I love you.
And Gramma Cheryl, I missed you today. As we worked in the kitchen and then gathered around the table you blessed us with, I was reminded of your fun and loving spirit. Then I peered to the cabinet and spotted my teacup. Thank you Gramma for all of the laughter and joy... and sewing lessons. Have I told you lately that I love YOU?
To my friends- The lyrics "A friends a friend forever, if the Lord's the Lord of them..." bring me comfort knowing that even while I'm away, we will stay close.
In no specific order...
Natalie, In the 483 days we've known eachother, there have been so many wonderful memories. I can't even express how grateful I am that you're my friend. You are my favorite person to sing with. I look forward to being old ladies together!
Ondi, Darlin, you constantly amaze me with your passionate love for Jesus and people. I love our chats. We always pick up right where we leave off.
Bekah, Over the years, we haven't spent much time together, but through letters, and random camping experiences, I've come to appreciate what an amazing person you are. You are unique and truly gifted in so many ways.
Allie, Oh the crazy times we have shared. When I look back I think "that was sooo high school..." But maybe that was just us... haha Thanks for being obsessed with the Jobros with me. I'm glad we're not anymore, but it was fun while it lasted!
Jordan, Thanks for your sense of humor. I'm glad you were voted "Classiest Male" for the yearbook. It's so true. Thanks for understanding my puns. And thanks for thinking I'm funny even when I say the punchline wrong.
Shelby, We haven't been friends long, but working with you is always a highlight of my week. Thanks for keeping me updated on the latest "Kinderisms" and such. I'm excited to do a TSwift jam session.
And to my friends that I didn't name, it's not because I love you less. Each one of you has had a significant impact on my life. I'm super duper thankful for you.
To my church family- We truly are a family, and I am who I am because of all of you. Thank you for all of your support these past few months. It's almost as if I'm taking a pice of you with me to Australia.
Aren and Heather, thank you for pouring your lives into a bunch of crazy teenagers. Thank you for believing in me. You guys are the best examples of what it means to set a standard for Jesus.
Aaron Hartey, thanks for letting me keep singing even when it wasn't in the microphone. I'm so grateful to have someone that will not only lead us, but will teach us along the way.
Gateway girls- From our princess parties, to camps and retreats, it has been so fun to grow up with you. I love that we're able to laugh and cry together. I'm going to miss allllll of you.
Gateway guys- way to be incredible young men for the Kingdom. I can't wait to see all that God has in store for you. Continue falling in love with Jesus.
I'm also grateful that I have the opportunity to work. I love Coldstone and Kroc and have been so blessed with amazing bosses, managers, and coworkers.
And most importantly, Thank you Jesus. Without you I would be nothing. Thanks for your love and grace and provision. Help me to continue trusting you. I know I don't say it enough, but I LOVE YOU.
Okay, before I exceed the maximum amount of characters, I'm going to stop writing. I just want you all to know that I love and appreciate you. We have so much to be thankful for.
Praise God from whom all blessings flow.
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