GRATITUDE LIST

It's a rainy day in Chicago, has been for the past two days, dark and dreary as if the heavens were crying for us mere mortals - struggling - just trying to survive each and every day.

It's on days like this that gratitude lists are so important to me. It refocuses my energy on positive things. Despite the challenges that I have faced, rough spots I've hit and negativity that swirls constantly - I am blessed. If I died today, it would be ok because I have truly experienced all the goodness that this life has to offer. And if for nothing else, for that I am grateful.

I am also grateful for ....

family! More specifically a mother who still talks to me in the middle of the night no matter how tired she is, a father who still remains my rock regardless of how far my world spins out of control (thanks for the reality check), a sister who is always ready to get down and dirty for a good cause AND my children who never fail to have a hug and some SUGAH for dey mama - sometimes a hug and kiss is all it takes to make everything right again.

childhood memories. It takes talking about them to remember how innocent growing up can really be. I was talking to someone about my mother's father the other day and it left me with a delicious feeling. I've had some wonderful male figures in my life.

a job that never fails to entertain me. Everything in life has it downsides and no doubt so does my gig BUT it has been a HUGE learning experience. I have grown and become a better person because of it. I am more tolerant of others and myself. I know how to push myself but also except my limitation. I also learned how to let go and let GOD. I've found that you don't have to agree to get a long and not every one is going to like you. But if you do your best, then that is enough.

a great pair of jeans. Nothing feels better at 3:30 in the morning on a rainy day in Chicago than my broken in pair of Levis and a cute sweater when all I want to do is stay in bed and snuggle.

my new ZUNE. I uploaded all of my fav videos that I've taken of my kids (neices and nephews included). I watched this one just a few minutes ago. Can't help but smile. Next I'll post one of my three year old bowling. HIL-A-RI-OUS!



bubble baths. I took one at 12:30 this morning because I couldn't sleep. Nothing relaxes me more than a few bubbles, a lot of heat, jets on high and a good book. I stayed in there until it was almost time for me to go to work. I think I make a pretty cute prune!

health insurance. DAMN! Do you know how much it costs to get some tests done these days?!?!?! My heart goes out to those who struggle with adequate health care /insurance for their families.

my creative mind power. I truly understand that everything starts inside of me and that I only have to change my thoughts to change my circumstances.

love. I've had a lot of it. And continue to be overwhelmed by it's generous nature. That's why Corinthians 13:4 is one of my favorite verses.

Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant.

Wouldn't the world be a different place if people truly believed and practiced this?

There are a TON of other things that I could list but these are the ones that are sitting at the top of my list for today.

As always, I offer you my best ~ and for that I am also grateful! I'll be taking a bit of a break to finish up some projects. Be blessed!