¡Alabanza!

My life is very transitory. I tend to live it in 6 months to one year phases before some major change like a move or job change flips it all upside down. While that type of lifestyle has allowed for all sorts of amazing travels, adventures and people in my life, it also means that I am almost allowed in some sort of transition - either preparing for the next change or adjusting from the last one. Every so often, in the midst of my madness, it is nice to take a break and just be. This weekend was one of those, and it gave me the chance to reflect on how truly wonderful my life is right now.

I have an incredible, loving and supportive family, and although I am far from them, I have photos and phone calls, and emails and Facebook to keep me in touch with them and involved in their amazing lives. They are each incredible people with specific talents and knowledge that teach me so much.

I just ate a slice of heaven: pumpkin pie, pecan pie and cheesecake all in one. Divine I tell you!

I am healthy; I can walk, talk, write, dance and sometimes even run! I have worked with some pretty brilliant people recently who are limited by their bodies, yet they are brimming with personality, strength and beauty. I may experience back pain and want to do more to care for my body, but I can do so much and I have learned to love the beautiful body I have been given.

That amazing body just took a glorious Sunday nap! I have a large, comfortable, warm bed, and the freedom to rest when I need it. Sleep is a blessed thing that no one else is limiting right now (although I should work on allowing myself more!).

I have loyal, kind, funny, intelligent, and simply fantastic friends who love me in spite of my weaknesses and let me share in their adventures, challenges and happiness.

I am in a field I absolutely adore and feel so much passion and drive for. In only a few months I will have a teaching certificate, a Master's degree, and all the possibilities in the world awaiting me.

I live on top of the world - in the midst of the majestic rocky mountains, and have a view of a thriving city and valley from my bedroom. My "surrogate family" are among the kindest, most generous people I know, and the home they have shared with me is always safe and welcoming.

It is October: the leaves are changing in a gorgeous, fiery cascade of color, the air is crisp, the apples are ripe, and the fun and costumes of Halloween are right around the corner!

I recently saw the musical "In the Heights," one I have been waiting years to see. It was amazing how personally connected I felt to the story and characters! In addition, I was asked to return as the program assistant for the Dominican Republic study abroad next summer. The last-minute trip I found myself on has changed my life in so many ways and revealed a part of me I never knew was hidden. Despite my pale, freckled skin I have discovered so many people and cultures that have enriched and blessed my life.

I just spent the weekend listening to the inspired words of revelation from leaders, apostles and prophets called in our day and age to teach, encourage, and guide the world. I felt the calming assurance of the spirit of God as he confirmed the things I heard, and helped me understand more deeply what they meant for me personally. I have a solid personal witness of the power and glory of my God - my literally Father in Heaven - and in the role of my divine Savior and brother, Jesus Christ, in my life.

How appropriate that in this moment that I find my heart nearly bursting with happiness in the recognition of the blessings in my life, tomorrow is Thanksgiving in my Canadian homeland. And what I blessing to have grown up in a free nation so encouraging and supportive of my ambitions and dreams. A nation where even now, so much opportunity awaits when the time is right for me to return. Although I will not be there to eat turkey and pumpkin pie with my family, the spirit of thanksgiving has filled me more than any food could.

My life is not free of struggle, and I am far from perfect. I still yearn for marriage and children of my own, ache for the pains and doubts of family and friends, and get discouraged and frustrated by the selfish, angry world we live in. But for right now, today, I am simply grateful to be alive and a part of this adventure called life.