Core Story

"Prompt: Core story.

What central story is at the core of you, and how do you share it with the world? (Bonus: Consider your reflections from this month. Look through them to discover a thread you may not have noticed until today.)"  (Author:  Molly O'Neill)
--reverb10.com

Gratitude and Joy have been my core story for the last few years.  Which is fun - because I'm currently reading a book by Brene Brown, "The Gifts of Imperfection" - that talks about how people who live with joy are people who practice gratitude.  So true.  I couldn't agree more.

A couple of years ago, after going through a health scare, I realized how blessed I am with my life.  My family, friends, home, church, etc, etc.  I had things to be thankful for everyday.  Even the dark, ugly days.  There was - and is - always something to be thankful for.

I started this blog as a way to record my thoughts and experiences - and to remember to write out the things I am thankful for each day.  Sounds silly to write them down - but it makes a HUGE difference in my life.  I spend my day looking around and noticing things I am thankful for.  I begin or end my day looking over the last 24 hours and thinking about the ups and downs, and recognizing the moments that made a difference. 

This practice of recording my gratitude has made me a new person.  I'm not as cynical and sarcastic as I used to be.  I don't expect the worst all the time.  I look for the good in people and situations.  Life is more fun.  More relaxed.  More joy-filled.

If I could make one recommendation to everyone I know, to help make their life more joyful?  Write down what you are thankful for EVERY DAY.  It'll make a difference.  I promise.

Happy New Year!

Things I am thankful for today:
 
1.  2010 was a great year.  Maybe one of the best.
2.  Looking forward to 2011 with all kinds of goals and plans!
3.  Coffee with John R.  So fun to catch up!

(This is John, looking very philosophical...  We were having a deep, intellectual conversation. Yep.  Something like that.  Ha ha ha.)

4.  The hubby and I both home for the day.
5.  Taking homemade soup to my parents (they're both sick).  A fun surprise visit.
6.  Crab legs for dinner!

7.  A quiet New Year's Eve at home.  After a busy holiday season, this is lovely.
8.  The game "Sequence."
9.  Bailey's Irish Cream.  Yum.
10.  Neighborhood fireworks at midnight!