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 293 – I am grateful that we are in the theatre ready for show week. Also very grateful that I wasn’t standing a couple of inches further forward on stage when a piece of scenery fell over – it knocked my cup of coffee (which had thankfully cooled down a bit) out of my hand and all over me but missed me. Excited for show week now!
Day 294 – I am grateful that Sophie could go to her drama group this evening as the children aren’t being called for the tech. Was lovely to walk down with just her as Thomas stayed home with Nanny. We skipped along the road, holding hands and giggling and she told me she was having “the best day”. Love little happy moments like this.
Day 295 – I am grateful to be in the theatre for dress rehearsal. So exciting!!!
Day 296 – I am grateful that Daddy got to see Sophie (and me) perform on opening night and that this little girl of mine did so well. So proud of her.
Day 297 – I am grateful for beautiful flowers being delivered backstage along with good luck wishes. Sophie is so chuffed to get flowers in her dressing room.
Day 298 – I am grateful to be part of such a lovely company – everyone has been so friendly and it has been a joy getting to know my fellow WOSpians. Very grateful to be able to go out for a post show curry tonight too!
Day 299 – I am grateful for an amazing show week and that Sophie enjoyed her musical theatre debut so much.
Day 300 – I am grateful for six years of Sophie. Happy birthday beautiful girl.
Day 301 – I am grateful for a fascinating learning activity at Denham Country Park this morning. Sophie enjoyed dissecting an owl pellet and finding tiny “dinosaur bones” inside.
Day 302 – I am grateful that Sophie and Thomas enjoyed catching up with their cousins.
Day 303 – I am grateful for the opportunity to share Jessica’s story and how BBC Children in Need helps children like Sophie through its support of charities like Halo Children’s Foundation on Children in Need: Got it Covered this evening. Thank you Children in Need for helping families like ours and thank you to everyone who donates and makes that support possible.
Day 304 – I am grateful that Sophie was able to come to Thomas’s Tiny Talk class. She enjoyed dressing up for the Halloween special too.
Day 305 – I am grateful that Sophie enjoyed helping me make her birthday cake ready for her party this weekend.
Day 306 – I am grateful for friendship and a wonderful day out at BRICKLIVE.
