I'm thankful for...

‘Tis the season for thankfulness prompts, gratitude 5Ks and Hallmark movies reminding us of all of the ways our lives are enriched. In truth, many of us are mindful of the ways in which we are blessed all year long. I know I try to practice an attitude of gratitude on a daily basis— even on those days when I’m simply grateful that they're over and I can crawl into bed.

This past year(ish) has been one of the most exciting for me. I began to work with an amazing publisher, my debut novel was released, I wrote a second book, and my children grew and explored and learned.

Yet this year was also one of the most challenging. My daughter snapped her ulna and radius while doing gymnastics, sending her into months-long depression. My husband was seriously injured in a snowmobile accident and continues to suffer from its effects. Our car was smashed. Our camper trailer was wrecked. A truss in our roof collapsed under the heavy load of Snowpocalypse. My husband awaits his turn for another ride on his surgical merry-go-round.

And that’s the short list.

It was a year of brokenness. Things. People. Plans.

And you know what? I’m thankful for all of it.

These challenges deepen my gratitude. They remind me of the countless things that are right in my life. They make me appreciate the small moments, the big victories, the non-Instaworthy minutia of everyday that I love and cherish.

Mostly, they remind me of what matters most. People. My family. My friends. My coworkers, colleagues, writing compatriots and loyal readers. I am grateful for their presence in my life through good times and bad. For who they are and who they inspire me to be.

So as I candy my yams and loosen my belt in preparation for the Thanksgiving feast, I want to say thank you to all who are part of my life. I am blessed by you beyond measure.

xoxo