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 286 – I am grateful that a decision 19 years ago to go to karaoke night ended in getting together with this lovely man.
Day 287 – I am grateful that the rain held off while I visited Jessica this morning and that today has been fairly gentle. It’s 18 months today since she died. Love and miss you so very much my sweet girl xxx
Day 288 – I am grateful for finding signs that the fairies have been there on an autumn walk.
Day 289 – I am grateful that Auntie Marls was able to look after Thomas this evening while Sophie and I went to our last rehearsal before we get into the theatre. Also very grateful to Grandma for looking after Thomas for so many other rehearsals and giving me the opportunity to get back into performing again. Can’t quite believe it’s show week next week – so exciting!
Day 290 – I am grateful for the joy on Thomas’s face when the rainbow scarves come out at BilinguaSing. He loves playing peek a boo with the little coloured scarves and going underneath the big voile rainbow and looking through it.
Day 291 – I am grateful that Sophie enjoyed the party at Girls’ Brigade this evening to celebrate her leader’s forthcoming wedding.
Day 292 – I am grateful I was able to pay a visit to my dad’s resting place on his birthday and leave some flowers for him.
