I came home Friday for Thanksgiving break. Yes, break begins next Wednesday. Priorities. Since arriving back in Gore, I have been feeling extremely grateful. As soon as I hit the city limits, I could breathe. I look around, and I am surrounded by those who loved me the same now as they did when I was 16 or 13 or 7. Clearly, you don’t realize that the things you take for granted the most are the things you should appreciate first. Here I am, thanking them and praising Jesus for blessing me.

1. My Family

I am most thankful for my family. First of all, my grandparents have shown selfless love to everyone they encounter. Additionally, I have always been close with my parents. They are my sources of peace in different ways. Likewise, my sisters have formed my personality. I carry a piece of them with me. Finally, my nieces and nephews are sprouting into their own little people, and it has been a joyous occasion watching them grow. It is an honor to love them and to have them in my corner.

My parents, my sisters, my nephew, and I. Not pictured: my other nephew, two nieces, and two brother-in-laws.

2. My Boyfriend

Next, I am extremely thankful for my boyfriend. Javyn has taught me to not care what others think and to be myself no matter who I’m around. He is loyal, funny, and my truest friend. Sometimes I think he knows me better than I know myself. Most importantly, in a room full of people, he would pick me. The fact that I can confidently say that speaks for itself.

My Javyn

3. My Hometown

As previously mentioned, I was dying to leave my hometown. From ages 12-18 (honestly even younger), I felt extremely stuck. Yet, I conversely approach it now. Gore and Vian built me whether I want to admit it or not. I frequently find myself missing driving by the lake and knowing every person I meet in public. There is something magical in the stillness of a small town. Although, I may be biased.

Me at Strayhorn Marina on Lake Tenkiller.

4. Books

Books were truly my first love, and I have evolved alongside others words. Novels have shaped me and helped form my belief system. They soothe me when I need comforting and encourage me in creativity. I am truly grateful for books because they have ultimately led me to this point in my life.

A blind date with a book!

5. Life

At the end of the day, there is so much to be thankful for. The sun rises in the morning, and so do I. It is another opportunity to express gratitude. If negativity weighs on me, all I have to do is take a look around. There, I will rest in appreciation.

“There, I will rest in appreciation.”