Today was like any other day. I got home from work around 4:30 a.m. (I work the night shift), hung my car keys up, went upstairs, took a hot shower and jumped in my warm bed. I woke up around noon and headed off to school without even thinking about it, taking these daily privileges for granted. I walked from class to class going on about my day, talking to the two friends I had met in my Humanities class. Then I realized something, the majority of people in other countries or even in other parts of Ohio are worrying about when they will have their next meal while I'm worried about when I'm going to get my car washed or whether or not I'll be able to leave class early. Being appreciative is so important these days, whether you have a lot or a little. While you think of what you are thankful for, here is what I am thankful for.

My Amazing Family.

I have been blessed with some amazing people in my life. My parents have done a magnificent job in leading me down the right paths. I don't smoke. I don't drink. I don't party. To be able to say even one of those things at my age is already a huge accomplishment and a big pat on the back for my mom and dad. They have raised me as a Catholic and have done a great job by putting me through 12 years of Catholic school where I had the opportunity to grow closer to God and strengthen my faith. Throughout these 12 years I had the privilege to have been taught by some absolutely amazing teachers. They pointed me in the right direction when it came to my education and even my faith. So, I thank you. Your guidance is what helped get me where I am today.

My Loving Boyfriend.

I don't even know where to begin. Let's go back to the beginning. It was the first day of classes my freshman year of high school and I started my day by walking into a senior classroom, talk about embarrassing. I walked into the right classroom and laid eyes on, who is now, my soulmate. We had history class together and the majority of the year was spent awkwardly flirting and me laughing at his dumb, yet funny jokes. So, I thank you for beginning to break me out of my shell and bring light and joy into my life. Years went on and you did everything in your power to get me to notice how much you loved me and I thank you for that too. You allow me to truly be me, in all my forms, and that is all I could ever ask for. You never fail to make me feel beautiful, wanted and important. I could not imagine where I would be without you. Thank you for everything you have done and everything you will do. I love you.

Last But Certainly Not Least, My Friends.

The friends I have made along the years have kept me grounded and the down to earth person I am today. I began high-school with many friends, and unfortunately, found out the hard way of who was really there for me. I finished my senior year with only a few extremely close friends, friends who are still there for me today. Girls who will always be my shoulder to cry on and the people I go to for advice. You have picked me up when I was down and lifted me higher when I was up. So thank you, you know who you are. Also, thank you to the two friends I had the opportunity to meet in my Humanities class, you girls have been like sisters to me and have always been there for me when I need you.

This is just an open "Thank You" to everyone I have met in my short 18 years. I would not be the person I am today without all of you. The biggest thank you is especially to my parents. Thank you for always making sure I have a roof over my head and food on the table. It's safe to say I have been spoiled and always will be. I am truly blessed. Thank You. God bless all of you.