“The cake had a trick candle that wouldn’t go out, so I didn’t get my wish. Which was just that it would always be like this…” ~Janet Fitch
Dear Universe,
Today is my birthday. Before the day gets started, I just wanted to say thank you for the gift of another year.
My life is full of things I am so grateful for and I am blessed in countless ways. I am beyond blessed. I know sometimes we can all get a little down about time passing or aging or expectations, but I don’t want to feed into that. Today is all about being positive! So here is a list of things I am appreciating right now in my life:
Being surrounded by so many dear loved ones—so many people wanting to celebrate or acknowledge my day. Truly touching.
Good health for me and the people I love. Overall, on a daily basis, we are all doing just fine. That’s everything.
This blog. Recently I started to read some old posts. I feel so glad that I can look back and see how far I’ve come, relive the places I’ve traveled, and be re-inspired by things I’ve noticed! Pretty neat.
A nice cup of coffee to start each day with and a cuppa tea to end the night on. Simple pleasures.
Ice cream. Though it’s winter and freezing out, it’s always a good time for ice cream. True story.
Books. I have piles of books stacked up on a waiting list to be read by me. It excites me each time I reach for a new one to open. (Or my Kindle! Love that!) My escape.
Inspirational people, websites, writing, events. Can’t get enough! Keep learning. Growing spiritually.
Laughing! Laughing so hard my stomach hurts and tears come. Best medicine.
Food. The other day I went to one of my favorite markets. It was empty and I had this moment of pure bliss just wandering the aisles in peace, getting inspired about what to cook and realizing how lucky I was to be having that experience. Nourishment.
Sitting down to eat dinner with good company and a nice glass of wine in hand. Best way to start an evening. Reflection. Gratitude.
Exercise, meditation, yoga: where would I be without all of you? Sanity.
Car rides when I don’t hit traffic and have time to myself to think. Peace.
The time off to rest and regroup before starting another semester. Rejuvenated.
Being excited about my job. The other day someone made a comment that she doesn’t know anyone who likes their job. I quickly piped up. “I love what I do!” Passion.
Traveling. Making plans to see new places and revisit old favorites. Traveling fills me with excitement and joy. Can’t wait for what’s next. Joie de vivre.
Chocolate birthday cake. Dolce vita.
Looking at the (non-trick!) candles, thinking long and hard, making a wish for the year, and believing it will come true. Hope and faith.
Thank you for these things and so many more. It’s beyond anything I could have ever hoped for. I am excited for this day ahead… this year ahead.
Much Gratitude,
A
