Count your blessings.

Lately I have been letting a lot of little stuff get to me... school, work, the typical everyday stress. However, honestly, I hate being one of those people...you know, the ones who always only see the tiny ugly parts of life and let the big beautiful things pass them by. I can't let that happen, so this is just me reminding myself of how good I have it.

The greatest blessing of my life is by far my family. To start, my parents are an excellent example that true love really does exist and that while there may be no such thing as perfect there is faithful and true. I feel so blessed to have parents who are still together and still in love. I have two amazing older brothers who have been excellent to me through the years. My brothers and I weren't the stereotypical siblings that fought all the time; we were always hanging together doing tons of fun things. As we got older we have remained close...I feel like I can talk to them about anything. I love my sister-in-law. Sara helped me to discover who I am as a person and helped me realize the importance of being myself. I love Sara for all she has done for me and never expecting anything in return. I love my brother's girlfriend (hopefully eventual sister-in-law) Ashley. She was one of my best friends freshman year and has continuosly been there for me. She helped me to break out of my shell and is an absolutey amazing girl. I adore my niece. Just a simple hug and kiss from her can make me forget all my issues. She is so perfect and always says the perfect thing to make you appreciate the simple things in life...like "My blanket smells so comfortable." My extended family is amazing as well. We are close and love eachother's company. I couldn't ask for a better family.

My schooling and education is another blessing I am greatful for. I started out being homeschooled by mom and aunt. Homeschooling was a true blessing that jump started me for the rest of my life. When I returned to public school I was blessed to have amazing teachers, Mrs. Wahlund and Miss Cole who both rounded up and I was able to have for two years straight. Junior high school and high school I continued to excel and graduated in the top of my class landing me scholarships to the school of my choice, University of Arizona. I currently hold a 3.8 GPA and am proud of my committment to do well.

I try to not to get too involved in material goods, but I do recognize the fact that I am blessed. I have everything I need and more than a fair share of what I want. I live in a beautiful house, have a nice truck, and never go without.

While it is sometimes stressful I am blessed to have a job (two actually) in this current economic crisis. I have jobs that are flexible with my school schedule and where I am free to explore my talents. I am blessed to know that these are only college jobs and that when I graduate more oppurtunities will open up.

I AM extremelly blessed when it comes to my friends. Julia Paige is my best friend in the whole world and I love that girl to death. I didn't meet Julia until I was in junior high but she has come to mean so much to me. We have been through everything together and I know that she always has my back. Brittany is another one of those people I know will always be there. Brittany is the girl I can alway count on to cheer me up. Conley is a friend I couldn't have made it through the last couple years without. We've had our ups and downs for sure but any friend that lets you break their arm and knee them in the balls and not get mad is a friend you have to keep around ;). Derek and Neiko are my brothers from other mothers. I can't imagine my life without them. I am so close to their families as well and love all the memories we have shared. Kelsey stinkin' Jensen. I wouldn't have made it through senior year without this girl. I love you. Janne Perona has been a forever friend. She has lived down the street since I came home from the hospital and we have grown up together. She is a girl I go to when I need educated advice. Tosha Nicole! My best friend in Tucson. I hated Tosha when I first met her but now I love her to death. Tosha is always willing to give you honest advice no matter what. Andrew Olson... I was convinced you hated me when we worked together but I am so glad you don't...I love chilling with you! Wesley Williamson, you have been one of my best friends the last few years. Can't remember how many times I've called you all upset and you were honest with me and set me straight, love ya boy! Sean Rannow...what can I say but THANK YOU! You are the best roommate EVER and I love all our random conversations. You are a blessing on a daily basis buddy!

LASTLY...my love, Jason Robert Adam Cole. You have shown me the beauty of true love.
You came exactly when I needed you and have continued to show me unconditional love. I love how you make each day an adventure. At the end of everyday I think there is no way I could possibly love you more but you continuosly prove me wrong. You're always in my heart and you're always on my mind.

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I am so blessed.