Gratitude List

There is a growing body of research showing that people who practice gratitude have stronger immune systems, lower blood pressure, higher levels of positive emotions, and fewer feelings of loneliness and isolation.  Yes, simply taking a minute to give thanks can make us healthier.  I talked about this in a December post about wellness lessons from 2013, and I’m trying hard this year to bookend most days with a simple gratitude practice.

And now and again, it’s also a nice way to close out the week.  So here’s my short and sweet gratitude list for this week…what’s on yours?

A short commute.  I heard lots of rumblings about traffic this week (it’s been brutal here in the Bay Area) — healthy perspective that spending minimal time in a car isn’t a given, it’s a gift.

Eating dinner with a dear friend last night.  The signs of how dear this friend is: he helps us with the dishes, our kids are thrilled to see him, he asks about our families, there isn’t any small talk.

A run with a colleague this morning.  Outside.  In January.  As a born and bred Midwesterner, that just never gets old.

“I’m not just going to hug you, I’m going to squeeeeeze you.”  Yes, a little human said that this week, and the hug felt awesome.

Parents on the way!  And I’m doubly grateful that I love them so much that their visit made this list.

Safety, Warmth, Food, and Love.  As always.

May your weekend be filled with many things to be grateful for.

Photo by Sam Howzit, via Flickr Creative Commons (photo taken at Olive + Gourmand, coincidentally one of my favorite cafes in Montreal)!