It’s hard to even know what to write at this moment in time….what a completely wild year it has been. I have been looking through old pictures, videos, and blog posts from the past few years (and by few, I mean 13)! It’s made me feel nostalgic for simpler times, happy for the sweet memories, sad to notice how quickly time passes, grateful for all of the shared moments between family and friends, and most notably reflective about the things that truly matter. This year has been utterly relentless on so many levels, but here we are still standing. Still fighting. Still pressing on during a virtual school year. Still managing the stress that comes with the daily worry about how this is impacting our children. Still coping with the angst of deciding whether it’s a good idea to see our families. Still looking at the world around us which seems to be crumbling on a daily basis and continuing to convince ourselves that this is all going to pass. Still finding time to connect with those we love even though we are exhausted from everything being thrown at us. Still reaching out to neighbors in need. Still putting one foot in front of the other.
At the end of the day, despite the many layers of stress and uncertainty, we realize we still have so much to be grateful for. Our health. Our marriage. Our children. Our family. Our cozy home. Wonderful food on the table. Music. Books. A close-knit neighborhood. Our animals (who truly have been the best therapy). Phone calls. Drop-by visits. Solitude (when possible).
At the end of the day, I’m trying to keep these things in mind. Some days, that is easier than others—and I figured reconnecting with our family blog will offer the ability to be more intentional about expressing my gratitude. When I read the entries from the past, it’s clear to me that this has truly been a gratitude journal for me….whether it has been documenting a birthday, a moment in nature, a family gathering, or even the messiness of raising kids—I’m grateful for all of it. Now, let’s get the country back in order and get rid of Covid!
