It's funny how your blessings seem the most real during really challenging times. In the last five months, so much has happened to me and my life has been altered in so many ways.

There were obvious blessings: my engagement and marriage to my best friend and the support of my amazing family and friends during some tough times.

There were subtle blessings: the peaceful passing of my ill grandfather and the opportunity to serve in the military one last time.

And then, there are my day to day, nearly invisible blessings: the military helmet that seems to alleviate my migraine headaches, the morning sky as I'm standing in formation, the sudden warmth in my body as I'm standing on a range for the fifth hour in 20 degree temperatures, the amazing team of Soldiers with whom I am honored to work, or the sweet, poignant sound of retreat that seems to give my long days some meaning.

GOD IS IN EVERYTHING! He was there for me the day I got my orders, helping Mike and I to see the light in the dark. He was there when my grandfather died, reminding me that I will see him again when we are reunited in heaven. He was there at my wedding and on my honeymoon, giving me confidence that I had made the right decision and that my marriage will survive deployment. And He's been with me since the day I left my family, giving me strength to get through every day and sending the most subtle signals that He hears my prayers and is answering them.

I am so blessed to be alive, to be American, and to know the presence of my Heavenly Father.