Gracias, Obrigado, Grazie, Merci & Thank You

I have spent the last few weeks marvelling at all of the things for which I am thankful.  Thanksgiving is fast approaching and while this post is rather timely, I wanted to write it not to jump on the gravy train, pardon the pun, (or don’t- haters gonna hate) but because giving thanks truly has been my saving grace over the past few months.

My religious beliefs may differ from yours, and that’s okay, but in constantly thanking God lately, I have felt much better about everything in my life.  I say this knowing that this has been one of my most difficult years, but I am still here and for that, I am grateful.

Maybe you don’t believe in God.  Maybe you believe in a different God. Maybe you believe in a Greater Power.  I don’t know your beliefs and I don’t need to because no matter what you believe, being grateful for all that you have is the wise and healthy choice.

There have been a great many struggles that I’ve faced this year, but I won’t waste any more time dwelling on the past.  I am doing my best to keep a positive outlook and remain thankful for EVERYTHING.

I am thankful for my employment, for the roof over my head, for my family and friends who love me and have been nothing but supportive in times of need, for the lessons I’ve learned, and for the fact that ABC Family has had a Disney marathon on all evening.

Sometimes, even the simplest things can make a difference.  Be positive.  Smile.  Say thank you. Love your life, even when it gets difficult.  I promise that it won’t stay that way forever.

Merry Thanksgiving to all and to all a good night. 😉

Be the Good in the World

I decided to take a different route today.  My thoughts are random and often frivolous and so today, I wanted to call your attention to something worthwhile.  (I know it’s pretty hard to beat ice cream and Netflix but let’s try, shall we?)

Let me tell you a little bit about my friend Jen.  She is probably one of the most amazing people you will ever meet.  (To be fair, all of my friends are top notch- I only choose the best.  But today is about Jen.)  She is a fantastic wife, mother, artist, and do-gooder extraordinaire.  She is certainly one of the strongest, kindest people I know and she is doing some great things with her life right now.

Take a second to check out her blog, Be the Good Project or search her on Facebook and Instagram at the same name.  She and her sons are proving that there are still good people in this world– one good deed at a time.

Since starting this project a few weeks ago she has left positive notes for strangers, bought coffee for the guy behind her, sent love notes to sick children, led a food drive collecting as much as 20 bags of food for those in need, and that’s just the beginning.

Doesn’t it make you want to go out and do some good of your own?

I am so proud of my friend for being such a positive light in the world, but even more-so, I am so happy that she is teaching her sons to be just as kind and giving.  She is leading by example and it is beautiful.  She is a wonderful mother and IF I ever have children, I aspire to be just like her.

Follow her and join the cause.  Do one good deed every day.  Smile.  Save a life.