Every night, before I go to bed, I write in a gratitude journal as a way to end my day on a positive note. Nothing profound or poetic. Not even in full sentences. Just a quick list of things that made me smile or gave me pause.
Most nights, it’s easy to rattle off two or three things because I have a lot for which to be thankful. But some days I struggle to remember how lucky I am and that even the bad days could be much worse. Some days suck and some people suck, but every day there is something — or someone — for which to be grateful.
Since tomorrow is Thanksgiving, I want to dedicate this post to the people in my life for whom I am most grateful. Specifically, …
- my husband, who supports me and loves me, despite all my idiosyncrasies, issues and insecurities (I love him despite his faults, too, so I guess we’re even)
- my kids, who make me proud and melt my heart (they do drive me crazy on a daily basis and even piss me off sometimes, but I wouldn’t trade them for the world)
- my parents, who are two of the most generous, supportive people I know (and equally as opinionated and stubborn)
- my sister, whose easy-going attitude reminds me to be more flexible and not sweat the small stuff (she’s also as generous, opinionated and stubborn as my parents)
- my girlfriends, who are more like my sisters, therapists and playmates rolled into one (I just wish they lived closer)
- my trainer and my fellow boot campers, who motivate me and keep me accountable (they also don’t judge how many times I pee during class)
- my blog readers, whose compliments and words of encouragement keep me writing
Of course, I am also grateful for my health and my home, and the fact that we have food in the fridge and money in the bank. How could I not be thankful? But in addition to the usual suspects of health, wealth and family, I am appreciative of a few less-important things that make my life a little bit happier (and easier) each day. Notably, …
- Carpools … every busy mom needs a reliable carpool or two (or five)
- Friendly neighbors with kidsitting (that’s what we call babysitting for older kids) teenagers and helpful neighbors who sew better than me … thanks again, Tracy
- Satellite radio … because sometimes a girl needs to kick it old school
- Heated car seats … two words: warm buns
- Under eye concealer … do I really need to explain this one?
- Peppermint green tea and dark chocolate covered almonds … delish!
- My tall, red Hunter rain boots … with calves finally small enough to wear these, I no longer dread rainy days
- My food processor, NutriBullet 900, mandolin and zucchini noodler … four small appliances that see as much action as a college co-ed
My list may sound shallow, but if it makes me happy or makes me better, gives me strength or gives me peace — be it important or petty, big or small, tangible or intangible — I am thankful for it this Thanksgiving … and every day thereafter.
Happy Thanksgiving!
– LJDT
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