Appreciations.

I look back at previous blog posts, tweets, facebook statuses, etc.
and although it's not all of them, MANY of them are nothing but complaints.
i try to consider myself a very positive person,
some may not agree, but i pray to God that most would.
with that said,
i've decided that i need to remind myself of the things i'm blessed with.
i could not have a better life and i sometimes take that for granted.
so rather than just your typical blog,
i've decided this one to be a prayer. a thank you prayer.

dear God,
i know i may not show appreciation for the small things in my life,
but i'm here right now to do so.
i want to list the ones that come to mind right here, right now,
but you know that is far from being all of them.

what i am thankful for:
-mercy and forgiveness
-my family (immediate and extended)
-the gift to see past people's flaws and mistakes
-the ability to let go of any unnecessary burdens
-my love for people
-my best friend in the whole world who's there to end my days perfectly
-my home and bed (i love my bed.)
-my "sister" who's gone through thick and thin with me since the 4th grade
-the hugs i get. they mean more to me than anyone could imagine
-the food i eat on a daily basis (sometimes more than i should)
-education and the environment i was raised in
-my homework (that i hate to do.)
-the skittles we had when i had a craving
-my pillowpet that my sister gave me
-the 6 pillows on my bed
-mac and phone
-all the pictures i've been able to take with the people i love
-my friends who are there to keep me on track
-music i've been lucky to hear
-the sushi and mochi ice cream i got to eat today
-all these movies i've seen
-the hopes and dreams i have
-nail polish i can paint my toe nails with (i dislike feet.. even mine)
-my ability to smile
-my faith in people
-the love i am constantly feeling all around me
-SO MUCH MORE

i thought i'd be able to list most of the things i'm grateful for,
but i just can't. there is way too many things.
all i know is that You have blessed me.
so thank you so much.
i will forever be grateful.
love you so much, God.

AMEN!

so elissa, please remember this.
keep your head up, your faith strong, and your heart grateful.
because there's nothing like living in contentment.