30 Days of Thanks

Hello, readers! To date, my posts have been focused solely on photography, but this month I’d like to change things up a bit and write about something else near and dear to my heart. November is one of my favorite months for a number of reasons: progression of the chilly winter weather (encouraging warm jackets and hats and forcing us to snuggle with those we love), the smell of woodstoves in the air (so many people have them around here), and – of course – the opportunity to give thanks for all of the good things and people I am so fortunate to have in my life.

As I’m sure many of my fellow bloggers have done, I would like to point out the most important things I am thankful for – 30 things for 30 days in this thankful month!

I am thankful for…

1 – Staying safe during Hurricane Sandy while so many others weren’t as lucky.

2 – Having a job that allows me to explore and work with my passions.

3 – Living close to my Mom – she’s awesome!

Me & my mom, Halloween 2012

4 – Having a network of colleagues, teammates, friends and acquaintances who provide great advice.

5 – My college education. I feel that so many take this for granted these days, but it is a true asset to life.

6 – Living near the ocean. Its natural beauty should never be underestimated or taken for granted.

7 – MUSIC!

8 – Being organized nearly to the point of OCD. I know where everything goes and my house is always clean!

9 – Weddings, because without them I wouldn’t have such a fun job.

10 – My little.

Me & my little

11 – Tacos. I really, really love tacos.

12 – Apple products because they actually keep me sane (and encourage my over-organized lifestyle).

13 – My Nana having Facebook, because it’s amazing that an 87-year-old is even more hip than me.

14 – My car.

15 – My extensive wardrobe that will never be complete.

16 – The ability to give back to others in need.

17 – Birthdays, because I have so much fun making people feel special on the day that is all about THEM!

18 – Cancer treatment because it is saving my uncle’s life as he improves every day.

19 – People who donate to the arts. It’s often a forgotten realm and should really be more supported!

20 – Volunteers. Many organizations wouldn’t be able to function without them.

21 – Those who serve our country.

22 – Having access to a hot, home-cooked meal on any given day.

23 – Being able to experience the seasons.

24 – My mentors throughout the past 10 years who helped me become the woman I am today.

25 – Purchasing my first home at the age of 24!

Soon-To-Be New Home!

26 – My dog Bear because he loves me unconditionally, maybe even too much.

Me & Bear

27 – My fabulous boyfriend who makes me feel beautiful every day and is always there when I need him.

28 – My amazing friends who never cease to amaze me with their kindness and ability to make me smile.

29 – Having a wonderful family who loves and supports me – even my faults.

30 – SIGMA KAPPA! The organization that has taught me about the importance of sisterhood and connected me with countless amazing women from across the country (and beyond).

Sigma Kappa, Kappa Zeta, PC Spring 2007 @ Senior Banquet 2010

It is so difficult to pick just 30 things to be thankful for in a life that has so much good fortune. What are YOU thankful for? Enjoy the calm before the storm that is the December holidays, and have a HAPPY THANKSGIVING!