It hit me this morning.

I have been anticipating Thanksgiving Day for a couple of weeks now, but it just hit me this morning when I woke up. Smelling the roast that is in the oven, seeing the goodies spread about the kitchen counter and dad pulling off his hunting camo woke me up to Thanksgiving Day! This just happens to be my favorite holiday with Christmas a close second.

As I watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade (a tradition in my family), I remember the lump I had in my throat last year this very same day. It was then the previous owner of Celebrations called to tell me that they had accepted my offer for the business. I remember thinking, I can't do this. I'm only 25, I can't run a business, I can't live in Chipley!

Exactly one year later, I still know that I can't do it. But God. He wakes us up with the strength only He can give us, the knowledge only He can impart on us and the love to carry us through. I know I have mentioned people in posts before that I am thankful for, but in the spirit of Thanksgiving, I feel I need to honor them again. And, I have a few people to add to the list.

I am thankful for, My Parents. Without them, hands down, this would not be possible. My mom handles the affairs day in and day out, learning, selling and praying. Her ministry in this business glorifies God over and over again. My dad lovingly cuts the lawn, fixes what needs to be fixed and gives valuable advice on how to run the store. And why are they doing this? Because their youngest daughter had a dream and they don't know what else to do but everything in their power to fulfill it.

I am thankful for, my sister. She is our West Coast presence for Celebrations. But most importantly she is our biggest cheerleader and encourager. I can't wait until she can be more involved in the store, but I am thankful I know she is waiting to hear of our next success.

I am thankful for, my prayer warriors. You know who you are. It has been your honesty, diligence, faith and belief that have lifted us up and sought wisdom on our behalf. I can feel your prayers as I get out of bed every morning and during the day when I feel I can't go on.

I am thankful for, my family. The support of my family has been beyond what I could have ever imagined. From building, advertising, working in the store, purchasing gifts, and the list goes on...you have made this process more enjoyable and reasonable.

I am thankful for, my friends. I have not been the easiest person to stay in touch with, but I truly appreciate the phone calls, texts and e-mails. I am thankful you haven't stopped the invitations, even though I can rarely accept them. I could not walk through this time without knowing you are there.

I am thankful for, Jared. He keeps me level-headed and balanced in these crazy times. He encourages and reminds me who is really in control, and I need this reminder often!

I am thankful for, our customers. This is an obvious group of people that we could not be Celebrations Bridal & Gifts without. We have had customers from as far as north Illinois, and as south as Orlando, Florida. Thank you!

Thank you for allowing me to share with you the people in my life that I am appreciative for. Feel free to post comments on people you are thankful for.