You know when I’m writing a Three On Thursday post that I’m truly back to a blogging routine . . .
Today I’m sharing three things I’m feeling grateful for right now.
- My Gratitude Journal Practice. I started this back in August and every morning I sit down with my gratitude journal and quickly write down 5 things I’m grateful for while my coffee brews. The things I write are typically 5 things that happened the previous day, sometimes it’s sharing a dance with Dale or having quiet time to myself, sometimes it’s being grateful for a sunny day or time with a friend. On the morning after Randy died I sat down with that journal and thought, girl, you’re going to have to dig deep to find gratitude today. And that day was probably the hardest one so far but then something magical happened. In the days that followed, my gratitude practice became more meaningful. I found myself writing that I was grateful for a friend that brought a meal, for the arrival of flowers from friends who live far away, for the support from our community. The grateful things to write about came to me so easily and I was blown away by that.
- All of you. This blog has gotten some extra attention lately, especially on my Facebook page, and I think that’s wonderful. Not because I want fame and fortune but because it means I’m making connections with readers. It means that the words I write are resonating with others, are perhaps helping others, are showing others what it’s like for a family to move through a terrible time. Those connections help me in a profound way and I’m grateful that I have this venue for processing my feelings and telling you my stories.
- A new year. I’m not one for resolutions but I am finalizing my 20 in 2020 list and it feels good to set goals, both fun ones and serious ones. Yesterday I set up my new passion planner/bullet journal and I did some brainstorming as part of that process. I was surprised at some of the ideas that came up and I’m grateful to have a way to track those ideas and find opportunities to make some of those dreams come true through planning and prioritizing how I use my talent, allocate my time, and spend my money.
Those are just 3 of the things I’m feeling grateful for today. I hope you are also feeling grateful, too, because I think it’s one of the best feelings there is.
Carole, I think you are an important part of many people’s daily life. You’re my first read in the morning. You’re reliably thoughtful, honest and upbeat (as much as any normal human being can be and still be those first two things). You’re also funny and generous with your time to both real and virtual people in your life. If you lived nearby, I like to think we’d go for coffee. You’re seeing what you put out in the world reflected right now. Wishing you a great 2020!
I love a new year too, though I’m trying to keep myself from making too many plans. I easily go overboard with things like that 😉
I’m grateful for blogs like yours, that inspire me to do better, but don’t make me feel like I’m not good enough.
I am still contemplating 20 in 2020 as well – and I am contemplating how those 20 things can work with my word this year!
Happy Thursday (and here’s to another weekend coming up!)
That’s why your readers read you on a daily basis, and why you can speak to new readers — because of your honesty, truth, and gratitude, even when things are at their worst. You inspire us!
I don’t make resolutions because I tend to break them 20 minutes later but I do set annual goals. With our living situation, it will be interesting to see how much I can accomplish this year.
I’m glad you are working through your grief, picking up the pieces and moving on with your life. Randy wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. Sending hugs and wishing you happiness in 2020.
Yes to all of this! I do enjoy your blog – sharing your life and experiences, good & bad. You have a way of writing that is comforting. I’m not one to make resolutions, but I have been thinking about what I’d like to do in 2020. And, I agree with Robby – if we lived nearby each other I’d like to think we’d meet up from time to time for coffee (or cocktails). Cheers to a fabulous 2020.
Think it will take me another week to sort out my 20 in 20 list but I’m happy to be posting 3 things today.
Oh, what a great way to begin the new year, Carole!
It sounds like it’s off to a wonderful, meaningful start — and I can’t wait to share it with you.
XOXO
I am grateful to have found your blog last year and for how open and honest you are here. There have been times that I’ve felt like the last person on earth with a blog, so I’m glad to know that it’s an important part of others’ lives as well!
I haven’t put too many goals down on paper yet, but I’m hoping 2020 will bring me connecting more and better with those around me. Here’s to hoping for good things and growth in 2020.
And I, Carole, am feeling grateful that you are in my life, and that you allow me to grow along with you.
Can you explain the 20 in 20 concept?
Gratitude is life’s miracle worker, especially when coping with very difficult life experiences and emotions. Thank you for sharing and offering each of us the formula for carrying on.
This post is so YOU … and the comment thread is just as affirming. One of the very many reasons you are one of my “daily read” blogs. With gratitude and love, M.
This is beautiful and even when we have to dig down deep to find gratitude, it’s usually there in some small way. You are blessed to live in such a caring community.
I have decided that I am going to start using my blog more and step back a little bit from FB because it can be such a time suck for me. I’m not going to leave FB, just spend a whole lot less time there and concentrate on things similar to what you mentioned. I have 4 lovely notebooks each waiting to be filled with different things to help me on my journey both for the year and what comes next.
Love you my friend!!
xoxo