26 Things I am Grateful For

I believe in living a life that is filled with gratitude. I feel that we become who we are with the help of everything that surrounds us. People. Things. The universe. It is easy to want more and forget about the little things that have become a part of your life. Those tiny little things that make up your world. I decided to create a list of the 26 things that I am grateful for in my own life. No particular order or rank. Some have a deeper meaning than others. Some are simple things which make me happy. For each one I am grateful.

1- My children. I cannot imagine waking up without them each day. Every breathe of theirs becomes mine. I am grateful that they chose me.

2- My partner. Our lives are intertwined by love, commitment, and friendship. We are a team.

3- My parents. The two people who gave me a loving and supportive home. Who taught me important values and lessons that I hope to pass on to my own children.

4- My brother. For all the memories we have shared and for the ones we will create in the future as a family.

5- My sister in law. She is not only my brothers wife, she is also my friend. An added bonus is she gave birth to my niece and nephew whom I adore.

6- Our home. I am fortunate that even though we do not own our place that is filled with love and feels like home. We have a roof over our head and walls that keep us warm.

7- The animals. I couldn't imagine a house that I lived in that did not have furry creatures in it. I am grateful for the happiness they bring me and especially bring to my children.

8- A kick ass job. I am happy that I have a part time job that helps me keep the balance between family and work. My bosses are wonderful and I feel appreciated. 

9- My health. I am grateful that I am healthy, strong, and active. I consider it a blessing to be able to run or be active with my children.

10- Friends. Old and new, my heart is full when I think of all the amazing people in my life. I have wonderful friends who have supported me, loved me, and watch me grow as a person. I am beyond lucky to have a fabulous support system known as my friends!

11- My grandmother. I have one living grandparent that not only do I get to see on a regular basis but that my children get to spend time with. I am happy that both boys will have memories of her to share in the future.

12- Food. I always tell Chase that he needs to be thankful for the food we have and not be wasteful. I explain that not everyone has food like we do. We may not always want what we have in front of us, but should never take it for granted.

13- Beer and Wine. Same category so I will count them as one. I think they deserve to make the list! Lord knows there are days they helped me through!

14- My camera. I love capturing special moments . Simple moments. Silly moments. Pictures to me are treasures.

15- The Ocean. The sound of the waves. The sand on my feet. The memories I have created and will continue to create with my family while going to the ocean.

16- Being a Woman. Really, I am truly thankful for this. I am thankful for this amazing body that created, carried, and birthed two creatures.

 My Family

17- My Boobs. Yes, they are a part of my body  and being a woman, but they deserve their own recognition. I am grateful for the milk that they made/make to nurse both my boys.

18- Laughter. My children's laughter and the ability to laugh. Good, deep down, belly laughs can make the worst day vanish.

19- Cupcakes. With lots of frosting!

20- Nexxus Hair Spray. I am serious, this stuff is the bomb. After trying several I keep going back to it. It tames your hair and doesn't make it feel like a rock. True Story!

21- Music. All different genres. The sound of it, the words, the ability to sing it, and the beat to dance to it.

22- For our soldiers. All the men and women who fight for this country and selflessly give themselves, sacrificing their lives and own family time during the holidays.

23-  Second Chances & Forgiveness. Enough said here.

24- A Creemee on a hot summer night. I miss you summer!

25- Words. The power of them. A good book. An inspirational quote. Words spoke by a loved one that touch your soul.

26- God. I am grateful for a God. The higher being, whatever that means for each of us, who gave me all these things.

(If you wonder why I chose 26 I will tell you. I actually thought that I had 25, but I miscounted and came up with 26. I was never that good at math, Ha!)