My Gratitude List

A strange thought for you on the week of Thanksgiving: Being grateful is a choice. We aren’t born with the natural impulse to show gratitude, instead people decide whether or not they want to show appreciation for their lives. For as long as I can remember, I was taught to say “Thank You” and to acknowledge all that is good around me is a privilege to not be forsaken. My gratitude list is always changing, but I don’t sit down to write it out enough. Today I’d like to share with you a list of 10 things I am grateful for, things that are not givens (family, friends, etc).

My Gratitude List

1. A warm cozy bed 

After a long day, I find so much joy climbing into my warm cozy bed. It’s a safe place where I recharge for the next day.

2. When my husband washes the dishes after dinner

I really don’t enjoy washing dishes, so when my husband offers to take on the mound of dirty pots and pans, I’m so grateful.

3. Kitchen dance parties

Gosh I really don’t think there is more love and joy in our house than what’s being expressed during our kitchen dance parties.

4. Twinkly Christmas lights

They’re magical and always make me feel a sense of wonderment reminiscent of my childhood.

5. Snow

Even though most of the snow from our storm last week has melted, I’m still thankful for the few white patches in the yard. It’s a sign of winter, a few cold quiet months I really enjoy.

6. My camera

Without my camera, I would not have countless photos of amazing moments in my life. Now if I could just print all 5000 pictures I have saved…

7. Pizza

My favorite food, even though the greasy cheese gives me a stomach ache. Pizza is comforting and good for the soul.

8. Ailey’s hair

There’s something about Ailey’s crazy hair that puts a smile on my heart even when she is throwing a tantrum fit. It’s so wild and free, begging to be curly, and I’m grateful it’s just like mine when I was little.

9. Annabelle’s inquisitions

I cannot lie – Annabelle’s questions sometimes drive me mad. However, her curiosity is what makes her so incredible and I am truly grateful for a little girl who wants to know so much about the world.

10. Hugs

When has a hug not made you feel better? I believe in hugs, unprompted and surprising are the best ones. Annabelle and Ailey love to give hugs and I love to give them back. I also appreciate a hug in the middle of an argument to dissolve the tension.

Living a life full of gratitude is one of the secrets to happiness, pure joy derived from loving what you have and not pining over what you don’t have. I encourage you to write a gratitude list, celebrating everything you appreciate in your day.