December 31st

Today I'm grateful for this blog.

This blog made me a lot more mindful as it forced me to reflect on my day and find at least one thing I was grateful for. I had some bad days but I was still able to find something, usually support from someone, that I was grateful for. I also noticed that sometimes I was grateful for brand new experiences like: hiking a trail for the first time, traveling somewhere I'd never been before, or checking things off my bucket list. And other times it was seemingly mundane things like: a flower that's on my commute route, a cool cloud, leftovers, or feminine products. I also noticed some grateful themes over the last 365 days: friends, family, food, frisbee, feeling connected, having a community, and experiencing nature. Overall, though, I just really noticed how much there is to be grateful for.

Farewell 2014, you've been good to me and I'm grateful. My 2015 New Years resolution is to floss at least once a week. And I've decided NOT to blog about it. 

December 30th

Today I'm grateful for my readers. (All two of them.)

This is my 364th post and tomorrow will be my last one. I'm grateful for each of you who read even one post but there are two people who I believe read every single one and were avid readers. Those people are my mom and Caitlin. Thanks for sticking with me this whole year! 

Before reading...

After reading...

December 29th

Today I'm grateful for video technology.

I FaceTimed with my sister briefly tonight and got to see these two little buggers. I'm so grateful for this technology as it keeps me in touch with important people in my life. 

December 28th

Today I'm grateful for cat/house sitting.

I'm house sitting for a friend and it almost feels like I'm on vacation. Her house is very quiet and in the trees so it doesn't feel like I'm in Eugene. I've been enjoying her fireplace in the evenings and keeping her kitty company. 

Napping.

Watching Friends together.

December 27th

Today I'm grateful for a true Oregonian hike.

I met up with a dear friend and her family in Portland to go for a hike. We went to the gorge and had a loop planned, but when we got there the loop was closed due to some construction. We decided to do an out and back hike instead. It was incredibly beautiful despite the constant drizzle. We were out for about 4 hours and by the time we arrived back at the cars we were all soaking wet despite our rain gear. It was so wet I didn't take any pictures, but believe me, we looked like this at the end. We ended the evening with burgers and beer at Rogue.

December 26th

Today I'm grateful for Lily.

I had the whole day off off work and not a lot to do. Lily kept me company all day. We went hiking on Spencer's Butte and then spent the rest of the day on the couch. It was very pleasant having her around and I enjoyed having someone to hang out with. She's a very mellow and a great snuggler.

December 25th

Today I'm grateful for Christmas love.

I had a conversation with my nephew today and he said he'd still love me when he's 20 years old. That stuff just melts my heart and makes me grateful for all the love I receive every day from friends and family. Today felt extra special because I got to spend time with many people that I love and care for. For me the magic of Christmas is in the time spent with loved ones and I'm grateful I was able to do that today.