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 146 – I am grateful that Sophie is showing an interest in the piano and enjoyed having her first piano lesson.
Day 147 – I am grateful for a fun start to the half-term holiday. Sophie had a lovely time going on the rides at Denham Village Fayre today.
Day 148 – I am grateful for a magical morning hunting for fairies.
Day 149 – I am grateful for Sophie’s joy and moments of watching her dance in the rain.
Day 150 – I am grateful for a picnic in the sunshine.
Day 151 – I am grateful that Sophie had such a lovely morning catching up with one of her school friends who recently moved away. Also grateful for getting to spend time with hubby this evening and having him home early. Would have preferred it not to have been due to a trip to A&E this afternoon though! Thomas scratched Daddy in the eye this morning and it was still very sore mid-afternoon so got it checked out. Hopefully the eye drops will help and fingers crossed for no more trips to A&E for the foreseeable future!
Day 152 – I am grateful that Thomas enjoyed going in the paddling pool for the first time.
I love the idea of a gratitude challenge! I used to keep a gratitude journal, but I let it fall by the wayside. Unfortunately, I am not in IG. Maybe I need to get started.