Daily: Reflect on 5 things for which I'm grateful.

1. Days of freedom from work, allowing me to take a deep breath and get a break from the daily dramatics of my staff.
2. Chris’s cooking.
3. For two years in my relationship with Chris as of this month.
4. For walks with Ella and fantastic conversation.
5. For allowing myself to laugh at small town idiocy.

(And a sixth item—for not writing one of these entries since embarking on my relationship two years ago. More doing, less documenting. That’s a good thing.)

1. Today I am grateful for Kristine and her amazing ability to such a wonderful friend at just the right moment without saying a word.
2. Today I am grateful for my ability to stand up for myself and my new value of self. No more allowing people to trample all over me only to be welcomed back for a second round.
3. Today I am grateful for the Kroger deli section.
4. Today I am grateful for the few retailers that remained open on Easter. Bless you.
5. Today I am grateful for sudden knowledge erasing doubt that he cared.

1. The people I work with. They are the foundation of my happiness in my present occupation.
2. Comparing Joy to Gollum from “Lord of The Rings” and the physical similarities that make up the joke.
3. Quiet moments that I spend reading and sending e-mail galore.
4. An incredibly unexpected surprise of flowers on a stormy evening with a note that made my heart flutter and melt.
5. Chocolate.

1. I am grateful that I am employed gainfully and laugh a lot at work. Certainly I’m not where I want to be, but I am grateful that I am where I am. It’s all a process.
2. I am grateful that I am growing as a vegan and finding stimulation and joy in that process.
3. I am grateful that the Humane Society e-mailed me yesterday with volunteer training dates. I should make it a priority to go.
4. I am grateful that I have people around me that care for me, even if that care isn’t manifested in the ways that I always wish.
5. I am grateful that I am a healthy, vibrant woman. I need to remember that more often, particularly the bit about vibrancy.

1. Today I am grateful for my housing.
2. Today I am grateful for my intellect.
3. Today I am grateful for laughter.
4. Today I am grateful for those who see beauty in me even as I try to push them away.
5. Today I am grateful for dinner plans with friends.