Living A Life Of Gratitude — Thankful for the Early Years (Part 5 of a Series)

Happy Autumn Days!

It is a gorgeous Autumn day as I sit here to write this morning. Leaves on my neighbor’s ash tree turned a bright shade of yellow this week. In bright sunlight this morning, the yellow leaves are sparkling like jewels as they twist, turn, and spiral thru the air on brisk Autumn breezes.

And I am feeling grateful for not only the beautiful display of leaves but also for another spectacular Autumn day.

From my open window, I can hear a bird whose call I do not recognize, signaling migration is well underway. At this time of year, he may be the rear guard for his flock. Or perhaps simply late. I hope he catches up.

When not busy chasing acorns, squirrels are busy raiding my neighbor’s bird feeder for sunflower seeds. The delightful aroma of baking pumpkin muffins wafts down the hallway from another neighbor’s kitchen.

The smells, sights, and sounds of Autumn, my most favorite time of year. And I am grateful. All of them small, insignificant things, perhaps. But when you are mindful and consciously aware of the little blessings and living a life of gratitude, your awareness and world are open to so much more.


And do you know what else I am grateful for?

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HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Simply a quick note to wish everyone a HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Between morning parades, dinner, football games, the Puppy Bowl, and pumpkin pies, let’s all take a moment to remember the true meaning and purpose of the day — THANKS – GIVING — a special day to give THANKS for all of the blessings in our lives. Even in the complex and challenging times, in the long run, they most frequently serve to make us even stronger and better in the end.

We should truly take time each and every day to pause and reflect in gratitude, giving “Thanks” for all of the blessings and gifts in our lives. I consciously choose to live each day in gratitude and joy, as I find it impossible to be miserable and thankful at the same time.

Happy Thanksgiving and God Bless! — Jim (and Red!)  🤠 🐻 ❤️



“As we express our gratitude we must never forget that to express the highest appreciation  is not to utter words, but to live by them.” — John F. Kennedy