Thanksgiving is a time of year that reminds me to take a moment to consider and be grateful for all that I have been given. With all that has been happening in the world over the last nearly two years, it seems especially important to find gratitude in daily life. Health is something I take for granted until I become ill. As we enter the holiday season, I find myself eating a healthier diet, exercising more, and focusing mentally on the “half-full glass.” November takes its toll on me as we transition from Fall to Winter, the days shorten, and night comes earlier in the northern hemisphere. Vitamin D-3 supplements take the edge off the lost sunshine and keep me from going into a slump the darkness brings.
Another gratitude is for work. I am grateful to our clients for the work they provide us to do and to my colleagues for their help in doing it. Owning a business has its ups and downs, but one of the joys is providing opportunity for people to earn an income, learn, and grow. When payroll comes due, it can get a little stressful completing the cycle of writing proposals, proposal being accepted, fulfilling the promises, and being paid for those services.
Changeand the ability to adapt to it is another gratitude I feel. Having recently downsized to move our residence has shown me the abundance of what I have accumulated. Sorting, selling, donating, and giving away things no longer needed has been telling. My spouse has been amazing at using the Internet to find new homes for much of the unneeded things cluttering up our life, and with each item sold, donated to a charity, or simply given away comes a person’s story.
Settling into a new home, neighborhood, and exploring new routes and routines has stimulated my creativity in all areas of my life. The warm welcome from the neighbors has shown me the value of being part of a neighborhood and a community. What an amazing experience it has been! The convenience of proximity was an unexpected surprise. A few blocks to the farmers market, library, downtown shops and restaurants, and medical services, if needed, are other unexpected benefits.
During one of my many trips to both the local hardware store, Van Weiren’s, and Lowes, I was struck by the enormous number of choicesof things; tens of choices of shower curtains, under counter light fixtures, and grab handles. A literal cornucopia of merchandize to solve any problem I may have and the expertise to help me find my way.
Lastly, I am grateful to you, the reader of our report. Without you, there would be no point in writing it. Your readership and occasional comments make it worth doing. Thank you for taking the time. Best wishes for the holiday season.