So this year has definitely been pretty crazy for me. I started this year out really strong. I began a new relationship, my niece was born, and I felt as if I was on top of the world. Now as it is coming to a close, I have been feeling down about a lot of things. Usually the holidays are the very thing that would cheer me up, and I figured I would write about things that I am thankful for.

I wanted to start off by saying I am thankful for what I have learned. I learned a lot about myself this year. While there are a lot of downfalls, there are a lot of good things that happened to. Each thing that happened to me was a learning experience. Although my relationship didn’t last, I am thankful for what I learned in the process. I am thankful for the times I got to spend with the person, because it taught me a lot about the dating world.

I am thankful that I get to write for a platform like the Odyssey. I started writing when I was younger, and I always knew it would be a passion of mine. Now I get to write for millions of people. I am thankful that I can be the Editor in Chief for my community, because it has taught me a lot. I love being able to write down my thoughts and experiences, and share them with the world. Yes, I have a blog and whatnot, but I really love getting my voice told through the Odyssey! I am thankful that God blessed me with this opportunity, and I make sure I never take it for granted. Hopefully one day my book will get published, or that I can someday become an editor for a magazine.

I am thankful that I can go to work and make money so that I can pay my bills. After coming back to my hometown I was able to get my first apartment. I love it so much! I love being able to come home after a long day at work to something that is mine (well sort of). Even if I have to work overtime, it is all worth it in the end!

Thank you to my friends who have been there for me! I know I am not the easiest person to get along with, but you do it! You deserve some serious gold medal! My friends are amazing, and they are honestly like family to me.

Everyone who knows me knows how much family means to me. I wouldn’t be where I am at today if it wasn’t for them. I am thankful that they are in good health, and that they can help me out when they can. I try to be as independent as I can be, but everyone needs a little help now and then. I am especially thankful that two girls call me their aunt. Being an aunt is everything I ever dreamed of, and more. Even when the three year old is on my last nerve, I am thankful she is in my life. As much as they changed my sister’s life, they also changed mine. My family may be very dysfunctional, but I have no idea where I would be without them. They are the reason behind many of my choices, and I know that they are always proud of me no matter what!

All in all, this year has had its ups and downs. But I am thankful that I can live through them, and I thank God every day for the blessings he has given me! So with Thanksgiving coming up so soon, I finally feel a real smile on my face!