Happy Thanksgiving

I am up pretty early this morning... Justin was going duck hunting and I was about to roll over and go back to sleep but when I checked my phone-- I couldn't help but read all 8 text messages from family and friends telling me they missed us and sending Thanksgiving love our way from the south. That woke me up and put the biggest smile on my face. To say that I am blessed is an understatement. I look back and think about this time last year. I was getting ready to go to my grandmother's house to spend Thanksgiving and then helping my mom get the Christmas decorations out. I was anxiously counting down the days until Christmas so I could fly to see Justin in Kodiak. This time last year if you had asked me to guess where my life would be in a year... I can promise you I would never have dreamed it would be what it actually is.

It has been an amazing year. A proposal, my brother getting married, my nephew being born, our wedding, a master's degree, a big move to Alaska, and a stable job for 5 months. Wow! I have the best family and friends a girl could ask for. My husband is amazing and I could not be happier. Although we will not be home with you this Thanksgiving, we will be thinking of you all day long. 

Most people wish for a white Christmas.... well here in Alaska we get a white Thanksgiving!

 
 This WAS taken yesterday because it is still dark outside this morning.. but you get the picture. It is absolutely beautiful here. I am starting to get used to the cold. I actually drove to the store with just a sweatshirt on, an earband, and some light gloves after I took this picture. You better believe I had those bogs and snow cleats on though! :)  

Well, I am off to begin cooking for our day today! We are getting together with 6 other people that do not have family here for Thanksgiving. The boys are attempting to fry a turkey (pray they don't hurt themselves-- i'm sure adult beverages will be consumed while they do this) I'm a little nervous to prepare my first Thanksgiving meal... it has always been my grandmother's job! I am however excited to experience our first Thanksgiving as a married couple.

If you are reading this... know that you are very loved and missed! I can't wait to see you in 30 days! Oh yes... one month from Saturday this girl will be walking through the Atlanta airport with the biggest smile on her face and probably a few happy tears in her eyes!

Happy Thanksgiving!