Nothing makes you appreciate something until its (or someone) is gone…..take today and the frigid temps we’ve felt in MN. Between yesterday and today there was a 50 degree difference and boy could you feel it. It’s winter in MN and we are used to this fluctuation, although I’m not sure anyone loves the degree in which the cold drops down to. We are not expected to see higher temps for almost the next week. Until then, memories of hot summers will keep me going.

What keeps you going during challenging times?

The magic of Christmas is so powerful through a child’s eyes. Today, our family celebrated our yearly Christmas gathering and again enjoyed the tradition of brunch, gift exchange, dessert, and a funny gift game. Giving gifts that I know others will enjoy is something I really appreciate. Also, watching my family open gifts and knowing the fun they will experience is well worth the time and energy spent in preparing the gifts. I genuinely appreciate the efforts taken on my behalf for the gifts I’ve received. One of my favorite gifts I received this year was a book titled Gratitude (compiled by Dan Zadra). I love gifts that will bring me joy for an extended period of time and this is sure to offer that. It includes many heartfelt quotes that I will be sharing from time to time. Included is one of my favorites:

“The happiness of life is made up of little things-a smile, a helping hand, a caring heart, a word of praise, a moment of shared laughter. We are most alive when out hearts are conscious of our treasures.” Thornton Wilder

Having time off in the middle of a work week is always something I appreciate and this week is no exception. The variance in the schedule, ability to rest, and ahhhhh the reduction in holiday traffic makes returning to work after a holiday a less challenging experience. I desire to have more flexibility in my schedule and am investing now for a pay off later. This week’s part time schedule is what I seek in the future and what I will strive for.

What are you striving for?

Merry Christmas all and Happy Birthday to Jesus! Christmas is a wonderful time of year to once again appreciate our blessings and be reminded that God exists as a mighty force in our lives. Today, I’m eternally grateful for family, traditions, peace, and a break from the snow. Love abounds and I hope it continues to bring joy to everyone!

A Christmas prayer to end this glorious day:

A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
Wilda English,  n.d.

God grant you the light of Christmas,
which is faith;
the warmth of Christmas,
which is purity;
the righteousness of Christmas,
which is justice;
the belief in Christmas,
which is truth;
the all of Christmas,
which is Christ?.

What are you grateful for?

Friends and family play an important roles in our lives. The support, encouragement, and guidance help us develop into more mature, thoughtful, and hopefully considerate human beings. Today, I’m appreciative for advice-both given and received. It’s really important that we consider others’ opinions of our thoughts, actions, and behaviors as often they are necessary to keep us in check.

What advice have you give or received lately that was essential to you in your development?

Laughter is really the best medicine. I love laughing, joking, and kidding around. Research suggests daily laughter has similar effects to exercise. Laughter does a body good and today I’m grateful for the opportunity to much of it. I’m also grateful for a day filled with family time, renewal, movement, and shopping.

Family time included (what I hope to be) a new tradition of celebrating Christmas with the Thompson’s. Tonight brought back memories of years past when life was simpler and honestly, quite different. Everyone is older and wiser and children and grandchildren have grown at the speed of light. I am appreciative for her coordination of this event.

Who in your family ensures family traditions continue?

Yahoo! My soul is on permanent smile. It was the most fabulous day. My day at work was simply perfect. How often does that happen? Literally everything at work went perfectly, from a gift from my boss, coaching sessions, really productive and appreciated conversations, and many laughs with my teammates. I am SO grateful for my employer, supervisor, and team. This makes life so much richer.

What makes your life richer?