Once again, it’s time for Thankful Thursday! I hope this post inspires you to consider the things in your life that you are grateful for. If you have a blog, consider posting about it there and link back here. If you don’t have a blog, please feel welcome to comment here on what you are grateful for in your own life. If you don’t feel comfortable sharing, then just take a few moments to reflect on all that you have. If you’d like to tag other bloggers that participate, feel free to do that.

For the last week of the Nostalgia series, I wanted to focus on the decade of the new millenium.  Just as this decade has brought turmoil and change to our country, so has my life followed the same path of upheaval.  When I look at where my life was at the dawn of the new century, I almost don’t recognize that girl.  The past nine years have brought me full circle – venturing into unknown territory to discover things about myself I’d only dreamed of, only to return to those things I’ve held so dear for so long.  Here we go…

Behavioral observations with captive rhino

In 2003, I took the opportunity to travel to Kenya for a research trip to study black rhino habitat use.  This trip was one of the most profound things I have ever done.  I stepped out of my comfort zone and really challenged myself to try something new and explore my passion.  I have always loved science and had gotten a degree in Environmental Studies.  This trip was my chance to put that knowledge to use and explore what a career in the field would entail.  I got so much more than I bargained for.  I am so thankful that the events in my life conspired to allow me this opportunity.  For all the travels that I’ve done, this trip stands out as one of the most important points in me discovering who I really am and it set me on the path of furthering my education in the field of science.   *All photos courtesy of Daniela Goldman.

Typical scenery with Mt Kenya in the background.

Acacia trees are a common food item for many species in Kenya, including the black rhino.

Although this decade has been filled with turmoil, I have tried to view each situation as a point of growth.  Each and every one of those experiences encouraged me to be stronger and to learn something from it.  I am thankful that I have found the strength to overcome sadness and grief and still have an open heart to love again.  I am thankful that I had the perseverence to succeed when every circumstance was pushing me to fail.   I am thankful that I risked love and learned how to be a better person because of it.   And I am thankful that I can still reach out and touch all those people that mean so much to me in my life.  Who knows what tomorrow brings?  But I know that regardless of what it is, I am strong enough, smart enough, and resourceful enough to get through it. 

That’s it for my journey down memory lane.  I want to thank each and every reader for allowing me to indulge in this series.  I’m just so thankful for who I have become and I appreciate the chance to honor those experiences that brought me here.  Thanks for coming along!

Happy Thursday to all and please visit these other sites that frequently participate in Thankful Thursday:

Akal Ranch, Enlightened Horsemanship Through Touch, and Tired Dog Ranch.