For three years, 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 20 – I am grateful for a lovely walk around Ruislip Lido and an opportunity for Sophie to get out on her bike.
Day 21 – I am grateful for our hand-held vacuum cleaner after Sophie decided to play hairdresser with one of her soft toys.
Day 22 – I am grateful for the bag of dress-up outfits that have kindly been passed on to us for Sophie. She loves them!
Day 23 – I am grateful for time to play in the snow before school.
Day 24 – I am grateful for fluffy baby hair and the gorgeous smell of a freshly-bathed baby.
Day 25 – I am grateful for breastfeeding. For six months this little boy has grown and thrived on mummy milk alone. Tomorrow he will have his first tastes of solid food.
Day 26 – I am grateful that Thomas enjoyed his first taste of solid food. Puréed parsnip was a definite hit!
Isn’t it something we all do, I’m sure I cut my Trolls hair when I was a little girl. Handheld hoovers are great though aren’t they, so much easier than lugging a our Henry around the house for small messes.
Hope Thomas continues to enjoy his first tastes xxx
Oh yes, definitely something many children do at some point. At least it wasn’t her hair, although I may still yet have that one to come! x