Thanks, thanks, and many thanks.

I realized tonight, for about the millionth time, how lucky and blessed I truly am.

For a class, I had to make an outfit out of reused or recyclable materials to be modeled in a fashion show. Mark agreed to let me poke, prod, and strap the clothes that I made on him for the show. I told a few friends and family members, and they said they would come.

It's amazing to me that so many people would take time out of their lives to come support me, even if it was just for a trivial class. Two of my friends who are my age (one a busy college student and another a busy mom) took time to come, even in the middle of crappy, crappy weather. (You know who you are and it was so fun to have you there!)

My parents drove about 60 miles to come see, and my sister (also a busy mom) came too. All in the midst of horrible weather, and all to see this outfit I made out of scraps and candy wrappers.

It's just so overwhelming that I have that many amazing people in my life. And for some reason, it's really hitting me hard tonight.

In trying to figure out all of our plans for moving to Germany, we were at a loss at what we were going to do with our stuff from our apartment (renting a storage unit being the last option). My brother and sister-in-law are going to let us use their unfinished basement to house our stuff for six months. I can't even begin to tell you what a relief this was, because not only are storage units expensive, they seem untrustworthy to me. Yet again another example of how I have so many amazing people in my life.

Another thing I am very thankful for is the opportunity to go to Germany for Mark's internship. I've had so many people tell me that this is "an opportunity of a lifetime." And I know it is, we are so very lucky and thankful to have it. I never thought that at one point in my life, I would be living in Europe. It's always been a dream, and I can't believe it's coming true. I'm so excited for the Mark's new job and all the new things he's going to learn. He's going to be able to use his talents and skills to help many people--I'm so proud of him!

I'm so thankful for Mark, especially because he puts up with me so much. I've never met anyone so patient and kind! Sometimes, when Mark does something and I react in a certain way, I'll think to myself, Does Mark react this way when you do this to him? And most of the time, the answer is no. He really is a sweets, and he is so smart. I'm thankful he is getting the opportunity to grow and learn in his internship!

I'm so thankful for every one of you, and the role and place you have in my life. I don't know what I would do without my friends and family! Life wouldn't be worth living. I love you all!