Today is Thanksgiving! It’s no secret that it is my least favorite holiday. But this year I am feeling extra blessed so I would be immensely ungrateful if I didn’t celebrate by sharing my annual thankful post.
Here are a few things I am thankful for at this time in my life.
1. Freedom. As I look at more and more violence and heartache in the world, I am grateful for the freedoms I enjoy. Does that mean I live in a country where I am completely safe? No. But I live in a place where people still fight for their freedom. A place where I can voice my opinions on what I like and dislike about my country. And a place where I have access to all of life’s necessities – food, water, shelter.
2. Naps. With a daughter that gets up before the sun, I have gained a new appreciation for naps. Not mine, but hers. She normally sleeps while her brothers are at school. That gives me a couple of hours to get stuff done and recharge. Hallelujah!
3. Photography. I have absolutely loved taking photos this year. I still can’t believe I get to do it for a living. I am thankful for the sacrifices my family made to allow me to go to photography school. I am also thankful for the people who let me take their pictures. What an honor!
4. Walking. I have NEVER been an early bird. But I am so thankful for a few friends who help me get my butt out of bed each week day to go walking. It has been a game changer for me. I get to walk off some of my stress while chatting with my closest friends. What could better?
5. Family. This year I have noticed how much I love about each member of my immediate family. They each have several special characteristics that I cherish. I love that they want to spend time with me. I love that they laugh at my stupid jokes. I love that they support and cheer me on. I love that they’ll still let me snuggle to them. I love that they are mine forever.
These are just a few of the things I hold close to my heart this Thanksgiving. I am tremendously blessed. I could never make a complete list of things that I am thankful for. And so while I get ready to sit down to a massive feast today, rather than let my annoyances with this commercialized, glutinous holiday overcome me, I’m going to think of the many things I have to be thankful for. I am going to focus on how I am so blessed.