It’s November 29th, and to many, Thanksgiving is over as they prepare for Christmas. In some cases, others have been preparing from the day after Halloween.  But if the last 18 months has taught me anything, it is this- Savor Each Moment And Remain Thankful.  So instead of getting caught up in Black Friday/Cyber Monday deals, the hustle and bustle of the world’s take on Christmas, I want to use this time to remain thankful.

In no specific order, I’m thankful for:

1. Peace of Mind

Given our current climate, so many are dealing with mental and emotional issues. I am thankful that I have that inner peace regardless of the “stuff” transpiring around us.

2. Good Health

I am thankful for good health and good sense.

3. My Mom

In a recent conversation with my mom, she ended by saying, “I love you with alllllll my heart.” I’m thankful for how she emphasized the word all. What a blessing to hear, feel, and see her love! This Thanksgiving we were able to celebrate together.

4. My Faith

My faith in God keeps me stable in a world filled with constant changes. God is the anchor that sustains me.

5. My Children

I’m thankful for the three amazing children I have been blessed with. Each unique in various ways, and I am honored and proud to be their mom.

6. Mondays (Me Day)

I am thankful I can allocate a day to myself. A day for rest and renewal. A day for self-care, and free of demands. A day to replenish my well, so I can continue to serve others.

7. Laughter

Laughter has been a deep reverberating sound in my home even as a child. My siblings and I continuously found something that brought us joy. We have had our share of hardships, but the ability to laugh has gotten us through many adversities.

8. Life

Life may not be easy, but life is good!! I’m loving the life I’m living, and thankful for the richness of my existence.

9. Good Company

There is a quote that states, “No road is long with good company.” I am gratified for the “good company” I have in my life. Lasting Friendship. Trustworthy Sistership. The ones who make this journey enjoyable with their love, support, and encouragement.

10. Love & Affection From My Grandchildren

I am thankful for my two granddaughters. The older, her affection is composed, but is evident in how she comes up behind me, holding me close, with her head on the back of my neck saying, “Hi Nana.” The younger, in contrast, will run hard towards me, burying her neck on my shoulder saying the exact words, “Hi Nana.”

Those words, “Hi Nana,” so simple, but uttered with such love, warms my heart every time I hear them.

11. My Husband

Last month, we celebrated 36 years of being married. I am soooo thankful for the man who walks beside me. I am grateful for our marriage and what it’s teaching us about ourselves, each other, life and about God. We are creating something beautiful together.

12. God’s Creation

Psalm 19 states, “The heavens declare the glory of God and the vastness proclaims the work of his hands.”

I have an appreciation for the splendor of God’s creation, and I am inspired each day by both humanity and nature.

Lastly,

13. Reading/Writing

I am thankful for my love of books and the power of a story, captivating me and taking me on various destinations. As Plato so eloquently states, “Books give a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything.” I am also thankful for the ability to express myself and to positively impact others with my writing. Words have the power to create and give life. I am humbled God has entrusted me with such influence.