30 Days of Thanksgiving: Day 20

Today, on the morning of my 31st birthday, I would be remiss if I didn't tell you how thankful I am for these two people:

My mom and dad.

Without the two of you I wouldn't...well, I wouldn't be here.  Obviously.  But there's so much more than that.  I thought I'd tell you just a few of the many things they've taught me, through both words and actions.

My parents have taught me to live a life of which I can be proud.  They've taught me to be kind and loving and honest.  They've taught me that sometimes I have to fight for the needs of my family.  They have taught me that sometimes we have to make hard decisions for our families.  They've taught me to be generous and giving.  They have taught me that nothing I have is really mine; it all belongs to God.  They've taught me to hold my family close.  They've taught me to drive a stick.  They've taught me to bake.  They've taught me the value of hard work.  They've taught me to love God.

They've taught me a million more things as well, but I don't have room (or time!) to list everything.

Thank you, mom and dad, for being there to teach me and for raising me to be the woman I am!

Dear Lord, thank you for my parents, without whom I would not have life.  Thank you for giving me parents that would teach me and encourage me to never stop learning.  Thank you for the love and compassion and forgiveness they've shown me throughout the last 31 years.  Thank you for being their father, so that they could introduce you to me.  Thank you for my mom and dad!