My to-do list to too long. My day is too short. I still haven’t showered and I have an event to go to tonight, as well as starting and finishing the weekly Girlfriendology newsletter.

But, I’m starting a new routine and I need to commit to it, so here goes.

I recognize the value of gratitude. How consciously stopping to be thankful gives a new perspective and fosters hope and joy. And I know that I have much for which to be thankful, so I’m starting this Thursday tradition and I invite you too to share what you’re thankful for. (We all LOVE reading those comments!)

So here goes – THANKFUL THURSDAYS:

1. I’m thankful my friend Allison is finally home from the hospital. Her 13.5 hour surgery was too much for anyone (much less for that being her third similar surgery). She was in the hospital for 19 days and comes home to some daily nursing care, but she’s home. Life is a bit different now but I know (and am thankful) that she is so strong and powerful. And I’m happy she’s home with her friends, family and dogs nearby.
2. For my health and that of the majority of my friends and family, I am very grateful. I take for granted that I can run up the steps or walk the dog around the neighborhood. I’m not on any medications and I haven’t seen a doctor in over a year. I’m blessed and I want to exercise and take care of myself to stay that way.
3. Without the inspiration and friendship of so many of my girlfriends, my life would not be fulfilling. I’m thankful for my friend Carole who started a blog and group to encourage each other to get in shape – which has inspired me to finally go to Pilates classes. I’m grateful for my dear girlfriend Becky who is going through her own ’stuff’ right now but still takes time out to hear about how I’m doing. I’m indepted to my girlfriends who offer free consulting and share their business wisdom with me – Julie, Judi, Judy, Jody and Allison – I couldn’t grow Girlfriendology without your wise council. I’m thankful for friends Lynn and Greg who took care of our dog, Brando, when we were out of town. It’s so nice to travel and not worry about him, and to know he’s having a wonderful time playing with all his friends.
4. The windows are open and the neighbors can probably hear our 18-year old cat yell at our 1.5 year old pup. The dog insists on wrestling with the cat, who, if he really wanted to avoid it, could just leave but doesn’t. This goes on several times a day and is (in my little world!) very amusing. I’m so, SO thankful to be able to work from home and witness this pet drama daily. And, I love that I’m still in my sweats and comfy. That makes me a happy girl and I need to appreciate every second of it. (And thankful my mailperson, Steve, doesn’t scream when he sees me without make-up!)
5. And speaking of those open windows, I’m so thankful for Spring. It’s such a time of hope and renewal. I love seeing plants pop out of the ground and thrive all on their own. It’s a miracle and I want to appreciate and enjoy each bloom and bud.
6. I’m thankful for my relationship with my husband, Greg. We had a wonderful trip to Chicago last weekend (blogs to come on hotels, restaurants, etc.!). He’s a perfect traveling companion. I love how we’re very compatible and enjoy walking, driving, exploring and eating together.

So girlfriends – what are YOU THANKFUL FOR? Share and inspire!

Image via Wikipedia

Tags: Chicago, Family, Friends, gratitude, health, Hospital, thankful

This entry was posted on Thursday, April 23rd, 2009 at 4:06 pm and is filed under Be a Better FRIEND. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.