Since 2016, I have taken part in a daily gratitude challenge, sharing a photo of one thing I am thankful for each day on Instagram. There have been days when finding little things to be grateful for has been very easy to do and others when it has been incredibly hard. Life as a bereaved parent is quite a rollercoaster at times. There have been many moments when I don’t feel grateful for anything at all – just broken and bruised. However, looking for those little moments has helped me even on the darkest of days. Hard though it may be at times, I have always managed to find something to be thankful for.
My eldest daughter Jessica was an inspiration to me throughout her short life. She had so much strength and such a wonderful zest for life. Her godmother described her once as a “joy carrier” and it was the perfect description for her. She was a little ray of sunshine, full of smiles and gave joy to all who knew her. I am, and will always be, grateful to be her mummy. She taught me to enjoy the little moments and to make the most of everyday because tomorrow is never promised. I continue with this challenge in honour of my beautiful brave girl.
If you would like to join me in a daily gratitude challenge for 2019, do feel free to use the hashtag #LHBL365daysofgratitude2019 on Instagram so I can find your posts there.
Day 139 – I am grateful for face painting and another afternoon watching Sophie have fun with friends at a birthday party.
Day 140 – I am grateful for my piano.
Day 141 – I realise I’m a day late and #worldbeeday was yesterday, but I’m grateful for bees and always very happy to see them buzzing around the flowers in my garden.
Day 142 – I am grateful for library books – especially ones that double up as board games!
Day 143 – I am grateful for superheroes. Today is Superheroes Day for Reception at Sophie’s school. She has gone to school as “SuperSister” – dressed as Jessica. She once told me Jessica was her hero. It made my day that she still sees her sister as a superhero. I think Sophie is a superhero too. Her super-powers are her strength, her charm, and her huge capacity for love.
Day 144 – I am grateful to have roses in bloom in the garden that I can share with Jessica.
Day 145 – I am grateful that Sophie enjoyed doing her first sponsored walk in aid of Halo Children’s Foundation. Thomas slept for half of it in the wrap but Sophie managed the full 5k and was running ahead of us at various points. Thank you everyone who sponsored her.