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 321 – I am grateful for a quiet day at home with my family and seeing Thomas becoming much more like his usual happy self again.
Day 322 – I am grateful for getting to see Sophie performing a couple of songs in her Triple Threat class this evening.
Day 323 – I am grateful for this gorgeous happy face.
Day 324 – I am grateful for a fabulous report at parents evening – so glad that Sophie enjoys school and is doing well. She’s moved up to turquoise books this week which is amazing but a bit bittersweet too as it means she’s now moved beyond the reading level that Jessica was at, but I know her big sister would have been very proud of her.
Day 325 – I am grateful that signing helps Thomas to communicate – clever boy got his 10 signs certificate at Tiny Talk today.
Day 326 – I am grateful that Sophie had a fun games evening at Girls’ Brigade in aid of Children in Need. Thomas was quite keen to try and join in too!
Day 327 – I am grateful for the support I have from others. We enjoyed today’s party at Halo Children’s Foundation to surprise Alia and thank her for all she does to help provide such wonderful support for families like ours. Sophie loved getting creative and painting a lantern too. We then had a fun afternoon at her friend’s birthday party and came home to a lovely surprise bouquet of flowers on the doorstep from one of my close friends to let us know she’s been thinking of us. Thank you to everyone who helps make our life as a bereaved family a little bit lighter.
