So yesterday was Thanksgiving and I thought to myself...what a perfect yet cliche reason to post! Here it goes - several people, places and things that I'm grateful for:
10. My 'hood. I was raised in Queens and I don't think I'd have it any other way. If you were to visit my neighborhood, you'd probably think to yourself, "Man, I should have packed my bulletproof vest!" but the block I grew up on is home to countless memories of my brother and I learning to ride our bikes, where we first put our hands behind a car wheel, walked to school, had snowball fights with my parents, played hazardous childhood games, etc. I wouldn't trade it for the world.
9. Transportation, especially, my car. An overlooked, yet necessary, commodity. When I was a teenager (ok, my late 20's...) I didn't think I'd ever need a car. I'd just walk everywhere I go or take the bus or train! RIGHT. Now I can't picture my life without it. As a teacher, I carry a TON of bags, and as a person, I like the comfort of A/C or a heated space that I don't have to wait for. Thank you, DMV! (Shout out to my fam who encouraged me to drive!) Can't knock the buses and trains, either. I can always depend on mass transit when I revert to my old philosophies! (or can't find my GPS...LOL)
8. My job. I love it. Yes, there are times that I want to pull my hair out, but to put it simply, I can wake up feeling pretty crappy and enter work feeling brand new.
7. Technology. Sure, it could be pretty annoying, especially when my phone loses a call, or sending a text takes forever. Or even when your age, residence, photo and current work location is displayed for your local psycho to see. But, I've come to really appreciate the convenience of browsing the Internet for a rare music track, watching a movie with two clicks of a mouse, or finding out new info through websites and other blogs. Now, do I think it'll be the cause of the world's debacle? YES.
6. Music. 'Nuff said.
5. Laughter. I don't know if it's because I think my dad is the funniest person in the WORLD, but I think the ability to make people laugh is truly a gift. Plus, who doesn't love to laugh??
4. Education. I'm not just talking about formal education, but life's lessons as well. I think people can get as many diplomas as they want, but having common sense is absolutely priceless.
3. A positive attitude. Ok, I'm allowed to get a little narcissistic here. =) I think a positive attitude can be a life-changer. I've had my share of challenges in life so far, just like you. The negative route seems just 'round the corner and I've been guilty of taking it. But, I was fortunate enough to have parents teach me that with hard work and the right attitude, you can go pretty far AND have peace of mind. To me, that is the epitome of positivity.
2. Books. *NERD ALERT* As a wee girl in the first grade, I used to max out my library card by taking out 25 books at a time. I knew since then that they can take you anywhere.
1. Love. I am so blessed with the amount of love that I've received in my life so far. More than I deserve at times. From unconditional love by my parents and brother to that of extended family, friends and a very significant other, I couldn't be luckier.
'Hope your Thanksgiving was glorious!
xoxo andrea
