staying grateful : active gratitude

"Grateful" isn't one of the first words I'd use to describe my current disposition. Packers victory at Lambeau last Thursday notwithstanding.

It seems as though I've spent more energy focusing on what I don't have (or on the things that keep going wrong) rather than appreciating what I do have (and the things that keep going right)...and let me tell you, there is nothing to be gained from chasing that rabbit trail other than continued discontent. And not only is it not doing me any favors, it's in direct opposition to the charge to "give thanks in all circumstances." This is where we sing the chorus of, "If you're sinful and you know it, clap your hands!"

(Clap, clap!)

So yesterday I set out to make an active change. Instead of just trying to be more grateful, I started the day by making a visual reminder.

And then spent the rest of the day keeping track of everything I have to be grateful for. Like this:

hot cinnamon apple tea + a jar full of sharpies

And this:

soup season + apple season + dark chocolate

And this:

freelance project planning + vitamin D + fall

And that's only what I instagramed. I can think of thousands of other things to add to that list. I'll spare you and just add ten below:

1. The NFL on FOX theme music...the only thing that makes me giddier is Christmas. Seriously.

1b. Christmas

2. This blanket from Target

3. This Etsy shop

4. This beautiful blog

5. Living close enough to a Trader Joe's that Pumpkin Greek Yogurt became a reality last night (it's amazing, FYI)

6. Pumpkin season in general

7. Evernote

8. Quickish

9. Re-re-re-remembering why I love running

10. Being part of a family

This tiny little practice made all the difference - it's an instant perspective shift. It's easier to be grumpy. But it's so much better to be grateful.

Here's to another full day of blessing-counting and a much fuller heart to go along with it. And a chorus of, "If you're still sinful but more grateful and you know it, clap your hands!"

(Clap, clap!)