“We often take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude.” ―Cynthia Ozick

Today, I am grateful for:

Smiling so wide that my cheeks hurt. 
Springtime days. 
Running outside! Treadmill running gets old and boring very quickly. 
Meeting new people. 
Dr. Brene Brown on Super Soul Sunday two weeks in a row! Here’s the link- take some time to watch this, it’s worth it, I promise. http://www.oprah.com/own-super-soul-sunday/Oprah-and-Brene-Brown

You have been given the gift of 86,400 seconds today. Have you used one to say thank you?” -William Arthur Ward

One of the things I love to do is take myself out for breakfast. However, it is also one of the activities that make me feel the most vulnerable. Today, I decided to take myself out for a delicious meal and not take anything to use as a distractor. No phone, no book. Just me and my thoughts (and the other patrons). Wow. What a hard thing to do. I felt so raw.

I found over time that my body language was closing me off. Unconsciously, I was crossing my arms and raising my shoulders up to my ears. Thoughtfully and rather frequently, I had to force my body to relax and open my mind and heart. What a mindful experience it was to focus in on the deliciousness of my food and to remind myself to enjoy my own company and not care what anyone else was thinking.

What an eye opening experience for me. Someone who enjoys being alone so much, can still have such a hard time staying open when surrounded by strangers.

Today I am grateful for:
taking risks.
brunch.
living and loving with my whole heart.
believing that i am enough, i have enough and i am grateful for both.

“When we give cheerfully and accept gratefully, everyone is blessed.” -Maya Angelou

Today I am grateful for:

My parents.

They’ve been so incredibly supportive to me over the past few months (and the past 29 years). They’ve provided emotional support and encouragement for all that I’ve been going through and dealing with. They were the first people I talked to when I found out I passed my test and did a great job celebrating with me by shouting and doing happy dances long distance. Today, they surprised me with this beautiful and delicious Edible Arrangement at work. Their sweetness and thoughtfulness brought tears to my eyes. Thank you so much, M&D. I love you.

“We must find time to stop and thank the people who make a difference in our lives.” -John F. Kennedy

I. PASSED. MY. LICENSING. EXAM!

Today I am grateful for:
Hard work and dedication.
Anxiety (the good kind that motivates).
Support of family and friends.
Positive self-talk and affirmations.

Note to self: try everyday to be filled with wonder and delight.

Addie woke me up early this morning. With excited eyes she watched the snow twirl and fall outside of our bedroom window. Looking at me she asked, “can we go outside and play?” To which I replied, “of course!”

I love my girl so much.

“Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you, and to give thanks continuously. And because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude.” -Ralph Waldo Emerson

Today was set up to be a good day.

Last night I went to see a band that I love play. Nothing heals me or exhilarates me more than seeing live music. I left the show feeling like all of my worry and pain had melted away. I felt hopeful and alive.

Today, I had some great sessions with a few of my families. I was in my “flow,” as some therapists call it. Then, when I came home I began to bake. I baked cupcakes and candied bacon. And then, I went to game night hosted by someone else.

It was such a great day. I feel fantastic.

Today I am grateful for:
Activities that are therapeutic for me, mainly live shows, baking and running.
Being surrounded by a dozen of my favorites.
Feeling successful at my job.