Make a gratitude list: Practical things to be thankful for in life

Each year during the holiday season, I sit down and make a list of things for which I am truly thankful. Some entries never change — deep and meaningful friendships, a loving and supportive family, a career that challenges and rewards me in equal measure, and the blessing of good health.

These constants anchor my list, reminding me of the steady gifts that shape my life. It’s easy, though, to get swept up in the permanent whitewater of daily responsibilities.

We rush from task to task, often too busy to pause and appreciate what we already have. That’s one reason I cherish my time in my deer stand. Those quiet hours during firearm season offer a rare chance to breathe, reflect and simply be still.

Several years ago, my husband and a close friend built a deer stand for me that I affectionately call my “treehouse.” Some mornings greeted me with very cold temperatures, yet inside that sturdy little refuge, I was comfortable, sheltered by the labor of two people who know me well and love me enough to ensure I could hunt without freezing.

In those early hours, as the woods slowly wake and the world brightens around me, I savor the solitude. I talk with God. I mentally list the blessings in my life.

Hot black Folgers coffee and thick warm socks tucked into my boots always rank high in those moments — but my list expands quickly.

I am thankful for the long-awaited precipitation that finally eased this year’s drought. The early snow wasn’t my favorite, but even that frozen white blanket served a purpose in restoring moisture to the land.

I am thankful for the abundant harvest from our gardens. We spent countless hours watering tomatoes, peppers, green beans, okra, peas and more, but the effort yielded baskets of produce to enjoy and share.

I am thankful for the hay crop we managed to put up at the right stage for optimal nutrient availability. Thanks to wonderful friends that are like family that helped us pick up our square bale hay.

I am thankful for corny jokes and a good sense of humor. In times as stressful as these, laughter is medicine. Few things heal like a full-bodied belly laugh that leaves tears streaming down your face.

I am thankful for local AM radio and the steadfast announcers who keep us informed during threatening weather. Having once done that job myself, I appreciate the dedication it requires and am grateful someone else is carrying the torch.

I am thankful for the automatic start, heated seats and heated steering wheel in my 2018 Chevy Equinox. Having a comfortable cockpit while I sing Christmas songs at the top of my lungs is a blessing.

I am thankful for automatic waterers, a deep well, swinging gates and a reliable veterinarian.

My list is long. I hope yours is, too.