11.13.2013

Feeling Thankful

I have a couple blog posts in draft stages. I had hoped to get one done today, but it's taking a little longer than planned. Instead I thought I'd take some time to talk just a few things I have to be thankful for.

It's cliche I know -- talking gratitude in November -- but I don't think that makes it a bad thing. It's just a practice that I should happen all 12 months.

Regardless, I'm jumping on the November "thankfulness" bandwagon.

Here are a few things I especially appreciate in my life.

1. My family and friends. I could easily fill up this list with just the people who mean the most to me. I feel very grateful to have an amazing support network here in Seattle and just a phone call away. I wouldn't be where I am or the person I am without these people in my life.

2. A job that challenges me. Not only do I work with some great people, I have a job that is a little different every day and one that forces me to work hard, be creative and thorough.

3. My health and health insurance. I am a fairly healthy person (though I need to be more active -- especially with a full time desk job now). That's not something I want to take for granted.

4. My own condo. It's hard to believe a year ago I was a grad school student/nomad and now I'm pretty much settled. And owning my condo is amazing blessing, even on days (like today) when I have to make a big mortgage payment.

5. Living in a city I enjoy and enjoying the city I live in. I know that sentence sounds redundant, but I really am thankful to ended up in a place I like. I didn't necessarily plan to stay in Seattle and except for occasional visits, didn't know the city well, so it's been fun to get to explore and like what I've seen/done. Plus, really, it's beautiful here.

6. Travel adventures. I really enjoy traveling and I've been lucky enough to get to have the resources and opportunities to do it quite a bit. The chance to explore new places, try new cuisines, and see new sights is not something I take lightly.

7. Technology. Sure, there are downsides -- like my complete addiction to playing Solataire on my phone and obsessively check Twitter. But it's pretty cool too. I am much better connected to people around the country (and world) because of all the ways to stay in touch, whether it's sending an email, Skyping, or following a blog, all from thousands of miles away.

8. An education. Having grown up in a family where getting a college degree was expected, it is sometimes easy to forget what a privilege getting a higher education is for most people. The opportunities I have to learn, to network, even to travel, because of school are priceless. My job even came directly from an internship while in school.

9. A sense of humor. Daily I am thankful for my ability to laugh at the ridiculous. It's a skill my parents taught me and it often keeps me from total frustration.

What's on your thankful list?

14 comments:

  1. aw what a great list, i was wondering what all the thankful posts on FB were about, now i know!

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  2. thankful for a job today!! it won't last for much longer, so today i'm thankful!

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  3. Loved reading about all the things you have to be thankful for. Really puts life in perspective doesn't it? And having your own condo is awesome! I always love your posts my friend.

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  4. Your thankful list sounds an awful lot like MY thankful list! Though I am still a renter. Gotta work on that part of "growing up". :)

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  5. We have similar thankful lists. I'm thankful that I haven't had to take some crummy job that I would've hated just because we needed the need.

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  6. I love the November thankful posts, and I'm happy that you have so many things to be thankful for! Also I totally feel you on the draft blog posts... I have SO MANY sitting in my folder right now.

    Sarah @ Life As Always

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  7. A good sense of humor is a great thing to have! And so is health insurance! :)

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  8. Ahh, love your list, think mine is pretty similar. :)

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  9. I think owning a place is so cool, despite the monthly mortgage.. I'd rather pay the mortgage than the rent!

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  10. Yay for you, you have so much to be thankful for!

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  11. That is a really good list - for me, health is key. And family, as usual. And that the drama this year is pretty much over - whew!

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  12. I mean, I have all of these things to be thankful for. It's at times like this that I just feel so incredibly blessed!

    7% Solution

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  13. Awesome list, maybe youll like this
    http://blazefever.blogspot.com

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  14. Awesome list and your city looks dreamy! I one day look forward to having my own place too. Oh man, the way I would deck it out to display my personality EVERYWHERE gets me excited.

    I am very thankful for my health. And my education so far. And the people I have come into contact with. And my strong will. I could go on!

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