My 29th birthday was on Sunday, and today is Thanksgiving Holiday in the U.S. It has been an amazing year for me, full of unexpected ups and downs as well as adventures and opportunities. I participated on panels at LTUE, the World Horror Convention, and Salt Lake Comic Con, among other wonderful events once more, to mingle with and learn from all my favorite local authors and creators. My little sister married her sweetheart in the Provo City Center Temple. I retook the GRE this summer, and I’m in the process of applying to graduate schools again. I have a lot to be grateful for, and I feel very blessed. I am especially grateful for the opportunity I have had to serve as the Relief Society secretary in my LDS young single adult’s ward since June. I have grown so much in this time, and I have learned so much from fellow presidency members as well as the sweet, strong, incredible women in my ward.

The weekly responsibilities I have related to this calling made my birthday this year a special one indeed–and my fellow RS presidency members brought a few things to our pre-church meeting to celebrate with me. Thanks to Lauren for the pumpkin pie and whipped cream, Emily for the delicious chocolate cupcake, and Carlie for driving us to and from our stake training at 7:30 in the morning on Sunday. I love you three–thank you for making my morning special while we talked about ward activities and needs. I’m also grateful for Brooke and Marisa, whom I served with in this presidency for just a few months. I learned so much from you. I love serving all the sisters in my ward (we call each other “brothers” and “sisters” at church) with this crew of wonderful leaders, and I am so honored that I have the opportunity to visit with you, teach you, learn from you, be your friend, and help run our Relief Society on Sundays and support your activities during the week.

I also want to thank my mom and dad for preparing a delicious dinner on my birthday, and for the family members who celebrated with me. To all my friends who sent me a message, spent time with me, or gave me a hug on my birthday, thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful words. I’m lucky to know you and have you in my life.

May everyone enjoy feasts of family, friendship, and good food today!

Happy Thanksgiving!