Thankful

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays.  I mean... a whole day centered around eating.  Runners love to eat.... its a fact (and usually why we run!). 

Not only is it a day to eat delicious food with family and friends,

 but it is a day to reflect on all that we have.

So in the thanksgiving spirit, 

I wanted to share all the things I am thankful for. 

I am thankful for my health, and ability to run.  It is so easy to complain, to make excuses, and to list all the reasons we don't want to go for a run.  But at the end of the day we are so lucky that we have healthy bodies that allow us to go out and exercise and hit the pavement.  There have been so many stories lately.. a girl with MS who's coach catches her at the end of every finish line.  Of a women fighting CF who still manages to get out there to run and appreciates every run. So often we take our health for granted.  I am so thankful for my health and my ability to get out there and run. 

I ran a freakin marathon this year! 

I am thankful for my family.  While we argue and can be dysfunctional some of the time, I am so thankful we all gather as a family several times a year.  It is so rare that families get together with their extended family, aunts, uncles, cousins, I mean everyone.  This is something I have always grown up doing and I am shocked to see how many families don't celebrate this way. I am thankful that we all get together so often. 

I am thankful for this move to Utah, and for Thatcher giving me the push to pursue my dream of moving west.  I took him to Seattle a few years ago to convince him it was time to move.  He agreed and it turns out I was the one who needed the push to leave the horses, my family and my friends.  While I get homesick and really miss everyone at home, I am so thankful for the opportunity to live my life out here.  

I am so thankful for the animals in my life.  Past and present.  After having a horse for 12 years, I really get down about giving up the horses to move out here and catch ride a few times a week.  Then I remember  this 12 year old girl who was given this 4 year old pinto who changed her life and took her from someone who took up down lessons to a fierce competitor in the show ring.  A horse who taught me how to ride, how to win, and how rare it is to have a horse with that kind of heart. 

I am also really thankful for Bradley.  A horse who taught me there is life after your first love, and who really taught me how to ride (back to the basics).  A horse I could trust, do something totally different on, and learn so much from.    

 I am so thankful for Olive.  This 8 month old mutt who stole several steaks off my counter and busted several screens, completely stole my heart and has been my sidekick and running companion for the past 3 years.  She keeps me active, keeps me company, and has been the sweetest most gentle dog I have ever met.  I love this dog more than anything, but I think you all know that already ;) 

I am so thankful for my friends.  Being out here knowing one person, really puts a perspective on how lucky you are to have close friends.  Friends you grew up with and friends you met through hobbies.  There is nothing like friends from home, who stood by your side through those awkward middle school years.  There is nothing like friends who share your hobbies with you.  Who will keep you company on a long run, join you for a trail ride, or take you on your first dive trip.  From old friends from home, the amazing people I met in college, and to friends Iv'e met through diving and trust with my life... I am so thankful for these people in my life. 

I have so so so much to be thankful for.  And what a perfect day to reflect on all these amazing things and amazing people.  Happy Thanksgiving everyone and I hope you can all reflect on all the things you are thankful for.