Practicing Gratitude

Every November, we put up our Thankful Tree. I usually save the leaves from the year before and either put them up again or use the back side (because it's kind of a pain to make new ones). There were many that Jon had written and I'm so glad I saved them. I love his handwriting and remembering some of his 'thankfuls.' 

The boys and I have already added a few new ones to the tree and we'll keep it going all month. There is so much pain in the world and I can't fix it all and that frustrates me so much. I am also trying to practice gratitude because I know it's important and it keeps me going. Here are a few things I'm thankful for currently:

• 229 days with Jon in 2016. There were several days we weren't together because of various trips, but we always talked or texted. There wasn't a day without being able to talk to him.
• Friends that are like family.
• Family members that are also my friends.
• New opportunities and adventures.
• Memories full of love and laughter.
• Support groups.
• Resources.
• Sean & Matthew.

This is a short list, I have so much to be grateful for and I know it. Life is still beautiful. It is also hard, and lonely, and full, and rich, and exciting, and full of love. Life is complex and I'm grateful for mine.