Thank You for My Full Heart

 

 

“When we focus on our gratitude, the tide of disappointment goes out and the tide of love rushes in.”
– Kristin Armstrong

 

 

My family has a Thanksgiving tradition where we go around the table and everyone says the one thing they are most grateful for this year. It’s a time of reflection for us all and usually sparks up a heartfelt conversation that brings us closer together.

 

As I was thinking over the one thing I would share this year, I realized this was next to impossible. There are countless things I am thankful for and each one, big or small, deserves acknowledgement.

 

With inspiration from Madelyn Mulvaney’s article in Issue 1 of Bella Grace, “The Art of the Gratitude List“, I decided to take a moment to make my own gratitude list … a thank you to all that fills my heart.

 

 

1. The amazing people in my life: my fiancé, family, friends. They push me to be the best version of myself and are a constant support system.

 

2. My golden retriever, Hudson. With his constant wagging tail and his generous nature of giving kisses, he has taught me so much about selfless love.

 

3. Relaxing nights filled with deep conversations

 

4. The sound of the ocean

 

5. Artisan cheeses

 

6. Overcoming obstacles

 

7. Cuddle weather

 

8. Surprises

 

9. Traveling to new places

 

10. Poetry

 

11. Candles, candles, and more candles … especially rustic scents such as sandalwood and pine

 

12. The lessons I’ve learned from my past

 

13. Stargazing

 

14. The smell of rain

 

15. Meeting new people

 

16. My free spirit

 

17. Succulents

 

18. Camping (Especially if it involves s’mores!)

 

19. Open-mindedness

 

20. Laughing so much I can hardly breathe

 

21. Wine tasting

 

22. Music that moves me … physically and emotionally

 

23. Hugs

 

24. Dinner parties

 

25. The color blue

 

26. City lights at night

 

27. Dirty chai lattes

 

28. Personal growth

 

29. Spontaneous adventures

 

30. The crackling of a fireplace

 

31. Desert sunsets

 

32. The smell of lilies

 

33. The challenges life throws at us

 

34. Discovering a new novel worth treasuring

 

35. The endless possibilities of what tomorrow will bring

 

 

This year, when my family goes around the table and shares what we are thankful for, my answer will be my full heart. I am beyond grateful to be surrounded by the beautiful things life has to offer, especially those I love and who love me in return. If life has taught me anything thus far, it is to not take anything for granted.

 

And to always let love in.

 

 

What are you grateful for? Let us know in the comments.