Being Thankful.

I can't believe it is already Thanksgiving break!

First an update on the house buying process. Justin and I put our offer in on our Short sale back in June. It took the owners of the house a whole month to get back to us and to accept the offer. The next step was for the sellers agent to get all the paperwork sent into the bank so they could start the short sale process. So we have been waiting.. and waiting.. and waiting... Jman and I were getting really stir crazy about not hearing anything except "haven't heard anything new" for 3 months. We went and looked at some other houses that were on the market because we were really hoping to be into our new house before Christmas. But Finalllly! last week we heard something positive from the sellers agent. The bank has done the appraisal of the property! Hopefully this is a good sign that they will make a decision in the next few weeks. Although we probably will not be out of my parents house before Christmas now, we kind of see the light at the end of the tunnel.. (maybe).

So with all of this house stuff going on I would like to do my own version of 30 days of Thanks.. I have seen many people on facebook doing this and I think its really cute. Plus it helps people put the holiday season into perspective. One of my goals this year is to not get wrapped up into the craziness of gifts. So here it is.. 18 Things I am thankful for this year.

1. A place to live- Thank you to my parents for generously opening their home to Jman and I while we search for our house.
2. My Husband- It has been an amazing 8 months of marriage!
3. My Parents- I am grateful for everything they have taught me. I would not be the person I am today with out their love and support!
4. My Brothers and Sisters- Although we have had our ups and downs, I can't imagine life without them
5. My "in-laws"- I fell in love with Jman before I met his family but they definitely helped seal the deal! They are such an amazing family to be married into. I am very very thankful and lucky for my Husbands parents, sister and extended family.
6. My job- With unemployment as high as it is, I am so very thankful that I have a wonderful place to work.
7. My coworkers- Working at such a crazy school is so much easier and fun with awesome coworkers to lean on!
8. My car- I can't imagine not having one.
9. Food on the table- I am always thankful for the meals we have.
10. A warm shower- So many people don't get one. I am certainly thankful for the one I get to take every day!
11. This country- God Bless the USA.
12. The president- I don't agree with most of what he does but I am thankful to live in a country where we have a voice and opportunity to choose our leader
13. Power!- After living without power during hurricane sandy for a few days I am very thankful that on most days we have it!
14. My education- GO STATE! I am thankful for all of my teachers who helped me, challenged me and inspired me to be a more educated person.
15. My kitty- Animals have a way of making you feel loved even on your worst days
16. My health- I am so thankful to be healthy enough to be training for a half-marathon!
17. Our service men and women- Thank you for keeping America a safe place to live!
18. My friends- I am thankful for all of my friends who know me and still love me and stay by me through thick and thin!

yes I know I am supposed to do 30.. but I ran out of time and need to clean and pack!! We are headed to NC for Thanksgiving!! YAY.

Until next time,