Finding Grace in Every Day #17

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Finding Grace in Every Day - Joanna Ciolek

My gratitude practice has become an integral part of my daily experience.  Since I journal at the end of each day, it makes me focus on all the good things I might have otherwise not even notice, or simply take for granted. The simple act of writing down the things for which I’m grateful for – as opposed to just thinking about them – makes me more aware of them, deepening their emotional impact.

Yes, sometimes I’m really tired and feel like it’s just another things on my to-do list, but truth be told, I’ve never regretted pushing myself to do it anyway – it just makes me feel good. And it’s great for sleep too. So, onward we go.

Finding Grace in Every Day #17

Today I am thankful for:

  • Crispy winter morning air that makes me feel energized and alive
  • Home made donuts that taste so good you can’t stop yourself from eating “just one more” again and again
  • My new coffee/tea percolator serving me liquid crack love as I work
  • Cozying up on the sofa at the end of each day with the most important people in my life
  • Sunny Sunday stroll in the park with Roxy (it was nearly 70 degrees!!!)
  • Watching kids play street hockey with a local teen – he’s a great role model for my boys
  • Bubble baths by candlelight when the house is all peaceful and quiet
  • Soft snow collecting on the window sill in the morning, then quickly melting away in the midday sun
  • Boys shoveling our senior neighbor’s driveway last weekend
  • Starry skies I escape to after I put kids to bed – the best way to quickly relax after a long day
  • Calming yoga practice in the comfort of my own home
  • Booking camping trips for the summer – so excited for a new season of swimming, hiking, and just being in nature
  • Daily fruit smoothies courtesy of my 9 yo budding culinary star
  • Friday night dance parties full of impressive dance moves, ton of belly laughs, and general shenanigans all around
  • The man surprising me with a oh-so-heavenly tiramisu cake
  • Getting better at staying mindful in stressful situations
  • Roxy putting her head on my lap while I meditate
  • My middle kid blossoming beyond my expectations in the last few months
  • My new go-to snack, dill pickle sunflower seeds

What are you thankful for?