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 307 – I am grateful that Sophie had such a lovely birthday party and enjoyed celebrating with her friends.
Day 308 – I am grateful that Sophie was able to be reunited with some of her Von Trapp siblings at the post-show pizza evening.
Day 309 – I am grateful for getting to spend an evening with my husband for the first time in a few weeks and for getting to catch up with a friend too.
Day 310 – I am grateful that Thomas was quite happy to let the dentist count his teeth on his first visit to the dentist today. I didn’t manage to take a photo as I was holding him at the time so sharing this one instead!
Day 311 – I am grateful for fabulous feedback from the NODA report about The Sound of Music. Sophie as Gretl “raised the “ah” factor to overwhelming – for a first ever performance it was amazing never faulting in song, dance or dialogue – and knowing all the words to Edelweiss as well! (There must have been a very proud Sister Sophia on stage!)” Indeed there was, and a very, very proud Mummy today to read that too!
Day 312 – I am grateful that Thomas had a well-timed nap so I could have some one-to-one time with Jessica.
Day 313 – I am grateful for lazy Saturday afternoons and snuggles on the sofa.
