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 216 – I am grateful for this lovely baking set that Sophie was given today.
Day 217 – I am grateful that the simplest things can provide so much fun.
Day 218 – I am grateful for a lovely day in London going to the Proms. My first time going to the Royal Albert Hall too in spite of having driven past it many times during my years working in London.
Day 219 – I am grateful that Sophie and Thomas both coped well with the various train journeys today.
Day 220 – I am grateful to everyone that has supported us so far for our #JoGLEforJessica.
Day 221 – I am grateful for a lovely evening catching up with my friend Gillian.
Day 222 – I am grateful for a lovely day exploring Glasgow, finding lots of the Oor Wullie sculptures and catching up with friends.
Day 223 – I am grateful to have reached Penzance after a rather eventful series of journeys to get here!
Day 224 – I am grateful that we have made it to Land’s End and completed our #JoGLEforJessica. Thank you to everyone who has supported us along the way and help us raise over £500 so far for Little Hearts Matter.
Day 225 – I am grateful for an afternoon at home making the most of the sunshine and enjoying the garden. Sophie had fun doing some hand and footprint painting and we also had the paddling pool out for her and Thomas to enjoy (it’s also the easiest way to clean up after painting!)
Day 226 – I am grateful for time to sit and paint rocks with Sophie.
Day 227 – I am grateful for bibs and baths!
Day 228 – I am grateful for trees.
Day 229 – I am grateful that hubby has had such a brilliant 40th birthday party and very pleased with how well the cake came out!
