As 2016 starts to draw to a close, I can’t even begin to put into words how strange of a year this has been. It’s been one heck of a rollercoaster. But, instead of dwelling on thing things I can’t change, I thought now would be a good time to take note of all of the things that I am thankful for this year.

First off, my family. I’ve put them through a lot this year, but I hope they know I’m grateful for them. It started last December with my decision to go back to school and finish my bachelors degree in a completely different subject from what I had been studying for the two years prior. But, they remained supportive and are proud of how well I’ve adjusted to “real school.” They also stuck with me through a rough 9 months of doctor visits, physical therapy, and one rough night involving crutches, which I know isn’t financially easy for them. And that one deserves the biggest thank you. And although we still probably have some things to workout, mainly regarding my sexuality, this year's presidential election, and my sneaker addiction, I know in the end they will still love me no matter what.

Second, my family away from home. This covers so many people, so:

1. The three girls that have known me so long that calling them anything but sisters seems wrong. This is the first semester where there isn’t at least one of us back in Philly to greet the others when we come home. I love these three so much and watching them be successful and happy fills me with so much pride and love. I know there isn’t anywhere in this country that we could go that would separate us as friends. And those are the friendships that mean the most.
2. The 24 people that held me together and inspire me everyday. There’s no way you can spend six days a week together for two years and not consider yourselves a family. And even though I don’t see these lovely, talented artists as often anymore, I will support them always and I know they would do the same for me. Our home is going through some major changes soon, but I’m pretty sure our family will still be whole and as big a hot mess as we were before our swamp got taken away.
3. The “Wellness Warriors”, who I am also lucky enough to call friends, who have helped me recover from injury this year. I can’t even begin to explain how grateful I am to have some of the most incredible professionals just a text message away. I have so much love in my heart for you guys and I continue to learn more and more from you everyday. Your support and friendship means everything.
4. The rest of my FitFam who have taken me under their wing and made me a part of such a wonderful family. I don’t know what I’d do without you all, truly. You make me feel loved and special and strong and I am becoming a better adult and human being with you all by my side. I aspire to be like every one of you in some way.
5. Anyone else in my life that loves and supports me for who I am. Thanks for sticking by this crazy, loving mess of a child-adult.

I am also thankful for a job I enjoy going to, the ability to study something I’m passionate about, a nice neighborhood to live in, and a (for the most part) healthy body to partake in these wonderful activities with.

I know the events of the last few weeks have been discouraging for some people, myself included. I think we accomplish nothing by fighting with each other and spreading hate in the world (that’s aimed at both sides of this issue). So this Thanksgiving, I’m choosing to be thankful for the family I don’t always agree with but love anyway, who I won’t be with for the first time ever and the wonderful person in my life who has enough love in her heart to take in a Thanksgiving orphan. I am also going to count my blessings that I currently have the ability to love who I want (trying not to jinx that one) and the ability to coexist with incredible people of all races, genders, religions, and sexual orientations. This world is too small to spread hate this Thanksgiving. Be the light in this world, I promise it’ll make the turkey taste better.