When you cant sleep... Count your blessings

Last night, I was tossing and turning ... just couldnt fall asleep. I became really frustrated and decided to roll out from the covers and began to pace the floor. (Yes, I really did.) My heart was heavy with thoughts and I started to cry. It was Thanksgiving, and I had not taken a moment to Thank God for all of the wonderful blessings in my life.

My past year and half has been very crazy as I have become older and have been learning that life as an "adult" is not what I thought it would be... Although, through all the tears and the pain ... There are these blessings that shine!

So here is a list of some of the significant blessings in my life:
- My mother and my father have been on their knees praying for me since before I took my first breath of life. I have been blessed by their commitment to the Lord, and to each other. They love each other more today and continue to set an example of a Godly marriage.
- My brothers have been protecting me and been my best friends. I have traveled and learned so many things from them and we are each others support. Kyle was blessed with a new baby (Cole is a perfectly healthy boy) and a beautiful bride Kayla.
- My sister continues to keep me organized and on track with all the craziness that school brings and make sures that I am eating healthy... She has heard me rant and rave over all of life trials and excitments. I love you dear sister.
- My roommate is an inspiration that lives passionately for the Lord. Her heart and her soul seek Him first and I am so thankful to be able to see her everyday. The Lord has been so faithful in showing us His mercy and granting us peace in our home. I love you Jesse McNally. You have helped me more than you know ... even when i have to wake you at the break of dawn. ;)
- To my friends - Carin (my BFF who is serving in the Military), Alicia, erin, ellie, You girls have been there for me through everything... and even though we may never get to see each other... I love you. Seriously I pray for you often .. Keep seeking the Lord and allowing Him to guide you in every step that you take.
- To my Pastors - PT, Kevin and Annie, Andy and Christy - Words cant describe how much gratitude I have for your dedication and investment in my life... I am blessed for your prayers and spiritual guidance.
- To all my friends, old and new - I am so thankful for the gift of your friendship. Sarah Bla - You have been an anchor to turn to when my life has been chaos. Rochester has become an exciting adventure thanks to you ;) Love ya.

I was so blessed that I had the oppurtunity to spend the last few weeks by my Grandpa's bedside. I held his hand and I talked with him late into the night. I said good bye and I was able to comfort him when he died. I miss him terribly tonight and this weekend and through out the holidays. I just praise the Lord that soon I will be able to dance the streets of Heaven with him. (Right before He passed my mom prayed with him and he gave his heart to the Lord.)

For the oppurtunity to go to school - to work at Mayo - to be living my dreams - for the ultimate gift of Salvation - to live in the United States - to have food, clothes, and a car - to be blessed with finances - Life is a beautiful place with all the blessings I have.

In the end, I was broken - My heart full of joy and I cried .

I climbed back under the covers and let myself fall asleep counting my blessings ...