Sometimes it's hard to work up a lot of enthusiasm for Thanksgiving. Since my mother died in 2020, the holiday has shrunk to just me and my son. My brother has to work tomorrow so he didn't want to drive 3.5 hours each way for just one day. I understand. We chatted last night.
My cousins all spend the holiday with their own families, and I understand that. It's a family time. Maybe one day when I have a grandchild or two there will be bigger celebrations for me on this day.
For today, I thought I'd just list a few things I am grateful for, because it's been a tough year, 2022. It's been hard sometimes to think of things to be grateful for, although I know gratitude is important.
1. My son is here with me. Last year he just came over briefly, ate, and left. He was in a very volatile, unhealthy relationship. I'm grateful this year that he is single and a lot happier. When he is happy I am happy.
2. Lola is still here. She is a senior dog now and has some health issues. Recently, an ulcer on her eye. She doesn't fight us when we put drops in her eye, though.
3. My car still runs reliably, even though it's 19 years old.
4. I am writing a new book, and the ability to write a novel is a great joy to me. Writing is my passion, and my joy. I will continue to write regardless of whether or not anyone reads my books. [But okay, it would be nice if people would read them, so check out my Amazon page!]
5. I am not sick! Yay. I had an upper respiratory infection including a bad cough, from mid September to late October. It was miserable. Two rounds of antibiotics didn't eradicate it, nor one round of Prednisone. I have had Covid and this was worse. So happy to be healthy again!
6. I am grateful for music. YouTube has all my fave songs and I try to listen every day because it soothes my soul.
7. I live in a messy apartment but it's warm and cozy and I don't feel any pressure to keep it spotless.
8. I have wonderful friends. They have gotten me through some hard times in the last few years. God has really blessed me with friends.
9. Memories bring me great comfort these days. I was so fortunate to be born into a wonderful family, and to have great friends.
10. I am proud and grateful to live in America. We have flaws but I believe we are still an amazing and awesome country.
#gratefultobealive, #gratitudeisimportant, #gratefulforfamilyandfriends
What are YOU grateful for?!
left, me as a child
right, my dad as a child
