Attitude of Gratitude Day 1

"Change the way you look at things.. and the things you look at change."

I found that quote on 'BexDailyInspirations' on Blogspot. I've been reading her thoughts for a few weeks now and have gained a lot of insight (both into life and into myself). I've decided I want to attempt a gratitude journal and would like to keep it on this specific blog (since 'Following Bells' is about the blessings of friendship, love, and working around and through your challenges).

Today I am Grateful for:

1. Having my Daddy answer the phone. (It's so rare that I get to speak with my Dad and it was really a pleasant surprise to be given the opportunity to talk with him today!)

2. Victor came by at the perfect time today. (It was late enough that I'd made it out of bed and dressed, so I was presentable. The dogs were crated and not running loose. And having it be Victor that came to the door to check the alarms and a/c filters was a true blessing in that he has always been friendly and his good nature kicked my social anxiety into low gear.)

3. The internet and how it connects me to my Angels. (During the more difficult times recently, I've received some really uplifting messages from my friends and it has been through this mode of communication. Therefore I am grateful that we have a means of keeping in touch that is almost instantaneous.)

4. Lightbulbs! (The one in the office lamp burnt out when I turned it on this morning and I was very happy to find several in the closet to replace it with. I have a true need for the table lamp because the glare from the overheat fan off the computer monitor gives me migraines).

5. Mei-Mei's recovering health. (We switched to feeding her pasta and chicken, with a light mix of kibble. She seems to be having less issues now that we've axed the rice from her diet. We'll be investigating lower fat, dry dog foods this week and picking out a store brand to switch her over to).

6. Amazon! (Being stuck at home is no fun but it is still much appreciated to have the option of ordering gifts and having them sent to the doorsteps of those I love!)

7. Phone and Friends (Having a friend call you up to read a storybook to you over the phone, because it made them think of you, is a real joy. This happened to me yesterday but the story is still very fresh in my mind and still very deeply appreciated.)

8. Weather (It is supposed to rain today but so far the rain has been kept at bay. I'm grateful for this because I still have several items on my back porch/patio that need to be brought inside and kept from the water.)

9. ipod (It was really nice to just sprawl out on my bed the other day, Friday, and listen to Loreena McKennett through my headphones. While it wasn't a cure-all, it did help to lower my stress and anxiety levels and give me something to concentrate on other than my current illnesses and medication woes.)

10. Public Television (I caught the last episode of 'Downton Abbey' last night, after having watched the series installments over the last few weeks. I really enjoy that there is good, solid, quality programming out there and that I can partake of it through PBS and part of what brings that to pass is 'Viewers Like You' or the fact that many people make donations to keep the good things on the air!)