Living In Thanksgiving Daily #1

I had the opportunity in church yesterday to be reminded of how Thanksgiving is sometimes the "forgotten" holiday. Thanksgiving was founded on the religious rights of the Pilgrims--leaving England and coming to America where they could worship freely and how they wanted. When they came here, they had a lot to learn about the new land and the Native Americans were great to teach them how to survive in Plymouth. I remember one of my favorite times of year when I taught 1st grade was during this time--we would review the story of the pilgrims in our non-fiction text and read about the things they went through. We would then talk about why the Pilgrims were thankful. And then, we would talk about what we could be thankful for--and make a cute thankful turkey that would go up on my bulletin board.

But--reflecting on Thanksgiving yesterday made me realize...I haven't been as reflective as I used to be this time of year. So--I'm making myself write (because it is how I learn) about things I am thankful for this week. I know some may look at it as just another Thankful post...but, it really comes down to selfish reasons for myself. When we live in Thanksgiving daily, we change our attitudes and our hearts. And right now--mine might need that. So--here's post number one: I am thankful for my family.

Family is one of our main reasons for coming here to this earth. I have been blessed to be born to a great family with great parents and sisters. I have some pretty amazing parents that have been there for me through so many things. 

My father is an amazing dad. He has been my rock in my life through many trials--even one's I put myself through. Every big project I feel like taking on, he's the one who puts me back together when I feel like I should give up. He's believed in me through so many things, and has also been the priesthood example I need in my life. My dad's love and passion for teaching has blessed my life and probably influenced me in my career. I am so glad to be a "daddy's girl." 

My mom is also pretty amazing. Those of you who have had the chance to get to know her, have probably been blessed by her in your life as well. She is a fighter and a hard worker. She has been an example of what a good woman should be to me. I remember when we were going through her breast cancer days and how scared I was that I might lose her. We grew through that time and she showed me that living a good life and being with my family is important. I can always hear her in the back of my mind saying, "Life is good, Amy, life is good." She is a pioneer of strength and dedication. She found the gospel in Thailand and came here to marry my dad. She is a rock--and she is my example. I am so lucky to have her as my friend and mother.

I also have been lucky to be blessed with amazing sisters. As the older sister--it's supposed to be my job to be the example. These two are more of an example to me than I think I am to them--they have both been through so much in their lives and they help me to realize why family is important. They have both married great husbands who are also great examples to me. I have learned style, manners, gospel lessons from them, and how to bite my tongue and control my anger and also how to love them unconditionally. They are two of my best friends on this earth--and I am lucky God gave them to me.

I also have these amazing, adorable little nephews. A brand new one--McKay--who reminded me of how precious life is and how innocent we are when we come here. And then Carter who is my best buddy--we play together and learn together. They remind me of why we are here--to learn, to grow, and to bless the lives of others. 

Every once in a while--I feel this void in my life because I know that I haven't started a family here on earth yet, or if I will get that chance. But, I know that I have had some of the best examples of family to be here with and that I am one blessed girl. God has looked out for me by putting some amazing people in my path to help me become the person I am becoming. I am grateful for my family--my immediate and extended.

My family has molded me into who I am. Without them, I would not be where I am and doing what I am doing. I am so thankful for my family.