I’m a big proponent of the power of gratitude, and for a while I blogged my list of “thankfuls” as I developed my gratitude habit. It’s been quite a few years since then, so I thought I’d share a smattering of this month’s list. Maybe it’ll even inspire you to develop your own gratitude habit.

“I don’t have to chase extraordinary moments to find happiness – it’s right in front of me if I’m paying attention and practicing gratitude.”

Brene Brown

Here goes:

• watching a very noisy family of wrens in our woodpile
• hummingbirds at my feeder
• sunny mornings on my porch and the way the light comes through the trees
• cloudy, drizzly mornings on my porch with a hot cup of tea
• giggles from grandsons

• the kids working to get the yard looking nicer
• date night with Ken and conversation without kid-interruptions
• SO MANY sea turtle nests this season (60+ at the writing of this post)
• days when the breeze + the temperature all cooperate to feel just right
• successfully graduating Kathryn from high school {happy dance!}

• having the patience to let the kids workout with me (occasionally) and how much of a kick they get out of it
• the kids cheering me on as I attempted a harder progression toward my one-arm pushup, and the progress I’m making even though I’m not there yet
• my SilverSneakers attendees, who seem to actually enjoy my dorkiness, and who make me smile every time we have class
• having all 5 kids + the grandkids in one place {spoiler alert: it was loud}
• watching the grandkids play with their cousins {did I mention loud?}

• Kathryn’s safe return from adventuring to a concert by her favorite band, and the fun she had with friends
• hearing seagulls while I sit on my porch
• hearing the ocean from my back yard when the wind is just right
• beach days, and subsequently tired kids who sleep well
• new (and on sale!) plant baby for my desk

If you decide to establish your own gratitude habit, try writing down — or even just thinking — three things each day. You’ll find it easier if you get specific. Try it for one month and see how it changes your thinking.

Jamie

Wife, mom, J-ma. Introvert who enjoys good books, sunshine, and authentic conversation. Often seen with a steaming mug of tea in hand – unless it’s lost yet again in the microwave. Read more »