50 Shades of Gratitude

My three most valued blessings

 

I have seen this challenge on the blogosphere that originated on tales from the motherland. The challenge is to take ten minutes and write out 50 things you are grateful for. Since I love a good challenge, I grabbed a glass of wine and decided to join in. I honestly thought It would be hard to think of 50 things to be grateful for, but once I started I just couldn’t stop. I suppose that is the purpose of the challenge. So.. without further ado, I give you my 50 shades of gratitude 😉

1. My three beating hearts- my children, because without them I simply would not exist.
2. My husband who constantly puts up with my monthly crazy moods and supports me going back to school I don’t tell him enough, but he really is awesome!
3. learning and growth through school
4. A job that provides well for our family and allows me to be home in time to help the kiddos with homework , bath etc.
5. Our warm home-it is just now a little cold in our area, so coming home to a nice, cozy warm home is awesome!
6. Heat- see above.
7. tropical weather – we live in an area that pretty much stays in the 70 degree mark year round, except on those hot summer days when it’s 90’s.. but even then I love it!
8. The sandy beaches that are just minutes from our house- there is nothing better than the sound of waves crashing on the shore.
9. Clothes- because not everyone has the basics and we should always appreciate the very basic of things.
10. My parents- our relationship isn’t as strong as it could be, but they are nearby and always there when it is important.
11. My sister in law- she watches the kids for us during school breaks and that is a major stress reliever for Summer break.
12. My best friend- we have been friends for over 15 years, and it always feels like home when we talk.
13. laughter- we couldn’t get through life without laughter to carry us through.
14. The ability to see the positive in situations-because not everyone can see the bright side.
15. The pure innocence of children – a joy to see every day
16. Good food
17. naps- who doesn’t love a good nap 🙂
18. counseling- counseling has and continues to help oldest and seeing her progress makes me thankful.
19. small progress- you need to small victories before you can appreciate the big ones.
20. A good glass of red wine
21. inspiring words- sometimes just a simple inspirational quote or word is all I need to keep going 🙂
22. Reflections- if we don’t reflect on the past, we can’t value the future.
23. The time capsule the kids and I created.
24. photos and videos – we will look back on these one day, smile and say those were the good old days.
25. entertainment- I love a good movie or good book!
26. light
27. small acts of kindness – the person who paid for my coffee at Starbucks.
28. Our Cars- dependable transportation is always a wonderful thing.
29. Amazon prime and text rental – Thank you amazon for saving Christmas this year and keeping my text books cheap.
30. Taking the time to remember the important things in life- there was a time when my priorities were out of order, and I didn’t appreciate those important things.
31. My 6yo’s hugs – she gives the best hugs as if she is hugging you with her whole body.
32. My 3yo’s imagination and laughter- everyone should be so lucky as to hear him laugh, it is truly special.
33. My 8y0’s artistic ability- she will have her work in a museum one day. you mark my words.
34. Safety – With the happenings of the world today, I am grateful for safety.
35. The magic of Christmas
36. The battle scars of motherhood- I would not be the mother I am, without them.
37. patience- on the rare days that I have it.
38. creative expression- Having this blog and the freedom to write make me happy.
39. My readers- Some of you I call friends, so thank you for always being there.
40. perseverance
41. My children’s health
42. Jenga- the kids and I love to play that game and it brings us together.
43. Vacations- we don’t take them often, but I always appreciate when we do. – My goal is Disney this year 🙂
44. Mental Health awareness – there is a long way to go, but I am thankful for the awareness to mental health.
45. Tutus- Even though this may be the last year in Ballet, I am thankful for the time we have had at the studio, and the girls dance recitals.
46. Future possibilities
47. Teachers- we have been blessed with some awesome teachers.
48. Fall- there is nothing better than the fall season.
49. Birthdays – birthdays means life, and we should all appreciate being alive.
50. Coffee!!!

Now go on and make your own list! You will feel amazing after I promise!!!