Thankful

I've been thinking about what I'm thankful for. It may have been prompted by volunteering in Sunshine's classroom and them writing their Happy Thanksgiving cards, or it may just be that this time of year makes me think about that.

For much of this year I have been struggling with finding the balance of appreciating all that I have and not wanting for too much. It is a weird balance to find to appreciate all that I have in my life and still set goals and drive for things.

So I have had the opportunity to spend a lot of the year thinking about all the things in my life to be thankful and grateful for:

Sunshine- she is amazing. She is smart and funny and curious and allows me to see the world in a different way.
My family- both near and far. I have gotten to see family I haven't seen in awhile this year and it has been wonderful to reconnect, to help my elderly Aunt and see part of my history. I've gotten to reconnect with my cousin who is becoming more like the sister I never had than a cousin. My Mom and Aunt and Uncle who are nearby who are always around to help me and Sunshine. My Dad and Mike who are not so close but are a phone call away and who visit and are very supportive.
My friends- I have gotten to reconnect with old friends recently and I have such wonderful friends nearby who are there to have fun with, to help, or just to be with.
My health- I am grateful that I started running, that I found a sport that drives me and pushes me to be healthy and that I have had the determination to keep it up.
My home and my job- In this time of economic uncertainty I am thankful that Sunshine and I have a roof over our heads and that I have a job to go to everyday to help provide for Sunshine.
My animals- There is nothing like having a cat or a dog curl up next to you on a cold night or sit at your side when you aren't feeling well.

I suppose these things are things that everyone is grateful and thankful for, for me the key will continue to be remembering these wonderful things in my life no matter what else is happening.

Happy Thanksgiving.