As a new year has begun, I’ve been thinking a lot about all the lessons that 2018 taught me. I have also been thinking about all that 2019 has in store for me and and my family. I’m excited because this new year really feels like a NEW START for me.
I’ll be honest with you, 2018 was a very challenging year. October to December was EXTREMELY tough and I was basically just trying to get to Christmas Break. Thankfully I was able to get to break and enjoy time with family and friends before returning to work. While the break was VERY busy, it was definitely a nice change of pace for me. It’s amazing how much can change in just a few weeks. Things at work are still busy, but are not as CRAZY as they were from October to November. I feel like I have a new sense of focus and determination to finish out the school year strong. I also feel much more relaxed and am able to be more present for my family.
I feel a huge sense of gratitude in this moment and wanted to share 8 things that I’m grateful for RIGHT NOW!!
My Job
I’m very grateful for my job. Yes, it can be very stressful and has its challenges (and yes there are times when I feel like quitting), but I’m grateful to have one. With all that is going on such as the government shutdown and people not getting paid right now, I have an even heightened sense of gratitude when it comes to my job. I’m grateful that I am able to work to get a steady income that helps to provide for my family as well. I’m grateful that the Lord has made a way that everyone of our needs has been provided. And one more thing… I’m sooo grateful for the benefits!!! LOL!! I know it sounds funny… but honestly my school system takes care of their teachers in regards to health benefits.
My Career
It’s hard to believe that I’m in my 14th year in education!! Where did the time go!! I’m grateful for the experiences that I’ve been able to gain over these 14 years! One of the benefits of having a degree in education is that it can open many career opportunities. For instance I don’t have to stick just to teaching in the classroom but can also look into other career opportunities such as being an instructional specialist, a consulting teacher, a coordinator, etc. There are so many options and the career possibilities for me are unlimited! I’m excited to see where God is going to take me in my career.
My Family
I love spending time with my little family. I remember the days when it was just Henry and me. I’m so grateful for the gift of Arissa. I enjoy the times we are silly and laugh with each other…We really do have a blast! I’m just grateful that the Lord has blessed my life with Arissa and Henry. I am truly grateful for the love that we share as a family.
Arissa’s Hugs & Kisses
Lately Arissa has been in this stage where it’s “all about mommy”. I don’t mind at all though! I’ve been getting tons of cuddles, hugs and kisses and I LOVE IT!! I have been soaking it all in! Lately I’ve been finding myself missing her throughout the day so much. It’s like I just can’t wait to see her again! She is such a joy and after a long and stressful day, her hugs and kisses mean more to me than she knows! I better enjoy it while it lasts!
Six+ Hours of Uninterrupted Sleep
Yessss!! We are in the sweet place where Arissa now sleeps through the night! Praise HIM!!! It seemed like it took us a little longer than expected to get there… but we are there!!! Anyone with kids knows EXACTLY what I feel now that I can actually get more than 6 hours of sleep per night… It’s heaven!!
My Mom
I’ve posted a lot about my mom on this blog, she’s pretty amazing! Now that I’m a mommy myself I have a greater appreciation for her. Especially since she did this “mommying” thing all by herself! (With the Lord’s help of course!). I love the relationship that we now share. I love that we are now friends. She continues to be such a blessing to my life and for that I am so grateful.
Progress
I’m really excited about the goals that Henry and I have set for our family this year. We have some goals that with consistency and hard work will be able to knock out this year. I’ll share more when the time comes. Let’s just say that I’m soooo excited about the progress we have made and will continue to make this year.
YOU
I still can’t believe that I’ve been doing this blogging thing for two+ years now. It’s crazy how fast time flies! I’m excited about what’s in store for the blog. I’m also grateful for all of you who read and support the blog! Your support means more to me than you even know! To think that my words and stories matter enough for you to take your time to read them means so much to me. I don’t take this platform lightly and pray that this blog can be an encouragement to all who come across it!
Well there you have it! If I had to list 8 things that I’m grateful for RIGHT NOW… in this very moment, those would be them!
The following quote sums everything up quite nicely:
The thankful heart opens our eyes to a multitude of blessings that continually surround us.
James E. Faust
How true this is!! When my heart is thankful, I begin see how blessed I really am.
What are you thankful for in the moment? Please share in the comments below, I would love to hear!
Gr8fully Yours!
Beautiful!! Surely we can all come up with 8 things we are thankful for!