We all need others….don’t we? Guidance, support, and encouragement are essential to the human experience. I’ve learned the hard way, that relying on and asking for support has been a necessary step to reach my goals. I’m vastly appreciative for those close to me…my parents, bonus parents, grandpa, siblings, son, and friends. All of these people are extremely important to me and I treasure each and everyone of them for their facilitation in my growth and development. My classmates and instructors are also very important member of my life as well.

Today, I am appreciative of my mentor who is helping shape me as a junior researcher. She has been responsive, supportive, and most of all listens to my approach and respects my research goals.

Who in your outside circle are you appreciative of?

I’m a big advocate in taking care of ourselves which includes our mental and physical health. I did just that today. I took time off of work, rested, caught up with school work, and enjoyed a wonderful evening with some fabulous young leaders. Tonight, was my nieces Girl Scout International event. We learned about many different countries and sampled food and beverages from said locales. Each young girl had a speaking part and my niece did an amazing job with her presentation of Kenya. I’m grateful for these moments. They will come and go as quick as a blink and I appreciate the opportunity to share it with her.

Who is the person in your life that you’re proud of?

I really try and do it all…..but there is never time to do everything I want to nor need to. Case in point, car maintenance. My check engine light came on a few days ago and thank you to my brother who referred me to Auto Zone where they provide free checks when this occurs so you know exactly what the problem is. Thank goodness for this-diagnostic tests at car repair shops can start at over $100. Ugh! In any case, today my brother came with me to help figure out what my car needs and where to get the part cheaper than what they charge for at Auto Zone.

Today, I’m thankful for my brother, the time he took to help, and his knowledge. I tease my brother a lot but am grateful for his help today. Love him!

Who helped you today?

Today was a wonderful day and I am appreciative to have spent time with these two marvelous individuals. Had a great time!Love you both!

Happy Valentines Day!! May love fill your soul today!

(Photo credit: https://niconica.wordpress.com/tag/poetry-2/)

Inspiration can make it’s presence in many forms: words, thoughts, feelings, music, film, and expressions. Today, I am grateful for the stories of others. They inspire me to strive to grow into the person I am destined to be. I think we are all a work in progress and have room to grow. I enjoy hearing people’s stories and am impressed at the adversity that people are faced with. It’s amazing what people have been faced with but more importantly how they have moved past their challenges.

Who has inspired you today?

I’ve been lucky to have been given a schedule change and it entails an earlier start and an earlier departure in the afternoons. I cannot tell you how welcoming it is to leave work in the day light instead of in the darkness (especially when I arrive in the dark). While the change has been wonderful, adjusting to the change has been a slight challenge. Today, I’m grateful for coffee and helping me make this transition and for the ability to avoid being grumpy.

What little thing makes the difference for you today?

Lately, the story of my life is been simply BUSY! So many things going on-work, 3 classes, gym time, family and friend time, vacation planning, and just life’s errands it seems everyday is filled with little down time. But, that’s ok….this is the time of the year and it won’t always be this way. When life is busy I’m grateful for slowing down and spending time with those I love. Today, I’m grateful for spending time with Mom and Bruce after their vacation. They were only gone a couple of weeks but I really missed them.

Who did you miss today?

“People will forget what you said, and people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Bonnie Jean Wasmund

Today, I received a beautiful expression of appreciation from a learner. She stated “God Bless You.” I cannot think of a more warm manifestation of gratitude.

What did you hear today that warmed your heart?

Love these two and am grateful to spend time with them. They are growing so quickly, so we are trying to capture time together and more memories!

Who are the little ones in your life that you are grateful for?