Happy Thanksgiving!!!!



If I could, I would definately fly home for the day. I know that the Powell side of the family is going to be eating the best food this world's ever seen today, and there are sure to be a few great football games played, too. -- When we mention Thanksgiving, all of the Europeans say something to the effect of ''Wow, Americans eat a lot... we only eat that much at Christmas!'' That's right.... we know how to eat! Not only am I missing the food today, though, but I am also missing my wonderful family and friends back in the States on this holiday. -- As I sat at the hospital today for another eye check-up, I thought about the many things that I have to be thankful for:



-God. How do you really express how thankful you are for salvation? I just know that while I have been here, God has definately watched over me. I could have really been hurt in the car accident, gone blind from this eye infection, gotten lost in Italy, etc.... but I didn't. God has kept His hands firmly on me, and shown me some amazing things. I've seen how vast and beautiful His creation really is, and have come to value my relationship with him so much more. I haven't had other Christians around to talk to, so I've had the chance to have a lot of ''Me and God'' time. I'm very thankful for that!

-A family who really loves me. I don't just have a mom and dad and a bunch of crazy relatives that I just happened to get stuck with (well, maybe the crazy part still applies, haha, kidding), but I honestly consider it a pleasure and a blessing to even know the group of people that I call my family. They have been nothing but supportive of me while I have been over here, and have definately proven to me how wonderful they all are. I love my family so much, and am VERY thankful for them today.

-Right along with family would be my friends back home, too. I am SO blessed to have a group of friends who are actively seeking God, and who have helped me grow in my faith in countless ways. They are not only mature Christians, but they are completely fun and hilarious. Each time I get to talk to Alyssa, Ben, or somebody over Skype, I always end up laughing! I love my friends SO much and can't wait to be able to hang out with them again!

-Bryce. He's definatley one in a really huge number. I've come 1/2 way around the world, met countless random guys, and found not one who even compares to the person that my boyfriend is. I am so thankful to be dating somebody who is the most motivated person I know, halarious, fun, and such a strong godly guy. You rarely find all of those things wrapped up into one person, but I guess that's why God made Bryce so tall -- to fit all of the awesomeness into one guy! I'm definatley thankful for that today!!!

-I thank God for the entire opportunity to be abroad, which has led to me learning how to live and survive on my own. learn about myself, to challenge my faith, to develop an even stronger appreciation for Kentucky, my family, and my friends, to see another wonderful part of the world, to meet new friends, and to grow closer to Him.

--Mom also would want me to say a 'small' something that I am thankful for. This year... it is definately free refills. The Europeans have never learned this concept... and I get awfully thirsty! :)

I AM THANKFUL FOR ALL OF YOU WHO HAVE KEPT UP WITH MY TRAVELS SO FAR. IT'S NOT OVER YET! I WILL BE THANKFUL FOR DECEMBER 22 WHEN I CAN SEE YOU AGAIN. HAPPY THANKSGIVING!