Day Fourteen: 30 Days of Gratitude

It is not even noon yet, but I still have so much to be grateful for already.  In addition to having a great deal to be thankful for, I also have time to share them now, so, I am taking advantage of a quiet morning home to do so.  It is below freezing outside, but here are three things that have warmed my heart with gratitude:

1. Having Friday off from work.  Not only do I have the day off of work, but I have declared it a day off from running myself ragged doing chores and running errands.  I am so grateful to have time to myself to relax and regroup at the end of the week, especially on such a cold morning.  So, instead of plowing through my “To Do” list, I am savoring a cup of hot green tea and the peace and quiet that permeates my home, and I feel so content and happy.  That’s my idea of a lovely morning.
2. The impending arrival of my college roommates.  In just a few hours, three of my college roommates are making the trip from Ohio to Kentucky to spend the weekend with me.  I love all of my friends, but my college friends hold a very special place in my heart.  They are the first ones to rush in to catch me when I start to fall and to celebrate when I succeed, and they love and accept me, flaws and all.  While the miles may separate us, our hearts remain connected in an unbreakable bond.  To spend time in their company is so very good for my mind, heart, and baby soul, and I am immensely grateful for them.
3. Being vulnerable in relationships.  I tend to wear my heart on my sleeve and adeptly share my thoughts and feelings with others, which can be both an asset and a liability.  I used to wish that I weren’t so “sensitive”, but in the past year, I have learned to accept and embrace my ability to be vulnerable with others, even when it means the risk of being ridiculed, rejected, or misunderstood.  It is scary to be exposed emotionally, but it is who I am and how I live, and for that, I am grateful.

This Friday is off to a stellar start, and I know that it will only get better.  TGIF!!!

Just one thing each day . . .