Thankful & Grateful

As we enter the week of Thanksgiving, I encourage you to take some time to think about what you are grateful for, whether it is big or small. We are fortunate enough to live another day, which that in itself is the biggest blessing.

“What if today we were just grateful for everything?” – Charlie Brown

Last week, my teammates and I went around and shared one thing we take for granted and are truly thankful for. It was a much needed moment for reflecting. I shared that a few of my best friends have moved away within the last year to different states– all of whom I have been able to plan trips to visit and reunite with this year. I took for granted the times where we lived close by and in the same state. Now we must prioritize checking in with each other or plan trips to fly and see each other, which makes connecting and checking in that much more meaningful.

Pictured below is a stunning bouquet that my best friend Haley had delivered to my house for my family and I for Thanksgiving today. Surround yourself with those who continuously surprise you and show how much they mean to you, and vice versa. I am blessed beyond measure to have such down-to-earth, thoughtful, and loving people in my life. It fills my heart up with endless joy! Take a moment this week to let your friends and family know how much you love them.

Each year I compile a list of 20 things that I am grateful for and are worth celebrating!

Here is my 2021 list:

1. Mine and my family and friends’ health

2. My faith and relationship with God

3. My family – that I have such a close bond with and who endlessly support and love me

4. My friends – who are each individually special to me no matter how close or far apart we live from each other

5. The joy my job gives me in helping support and encourage my students in their higher education journey

6. My supportive and helpful coworkers and managers – both at SNHU and the Puritan Backroom

7. Working remotely for my full-time job

8. Being fortunate enough to have travelled to Florida, Arizona, and California in 2021

9. Earning straight A’s in all of my Master’s degree courses so far

10. Starbucks baristas – who make the perfect drink for me each visit

11. Float therapy sessions – my dad and I book and go to our respective sessions together

12. Chiropractor adjustments

13. Prioritizing self-care and meditation

14. Getting to explore the world and plan future 2022 trips

15. Creating a positive, encouraging, and inspiring outlet and environment in my blog, which has been going strong weekly since its launch

16. Time – we are given the opportunity to live another day and make a continued impact on the world

17. Signs – from my angels letting me know they are no longer here on earth with me, but guiding me in each new chapter of my life

18. Laughter – especially the kind where I am brought to tears

19. “The Special Place” – a secret spot near my house where I soak up the serene scenery and unravel my thoughts

20. My independence – soaking up this season of being single and enjoying my self-growth

Since it is the season of giving thanks, I invite you to write down your own set of 20. There is always a reason to celebrate. My list makes me smile and I hope yours does too. It makes me thrilled for what is to come in 2022!

Remember to stay humble and kind, always!

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xo –Jess