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Michy
Boss(y) Lady / Site Owner / Admin
Posts: 7022
Registered: 1/15/2008
Location: Texas
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Mood: Peaceful
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Bring Back Joy & Gratitude - Writing Prompt
There has been entirely too much negativity on this board and in the universe surrounding it recently.
I built this board as a safe haven, a place where writers could come and not be subject to the drama that so frequently overtakes other boards - a
place to focus on writing and building people up and not tearing people down.
In that vein, I know I've been part of the negativity. That ends today. It's time to get back to that good place, that happy place, that calm and
peaceful place where all is right with the universe. Once, this place was a sanctuary; it will be again.
I've learned in my life (though sometimes I forget) that gratitude is the single most powerful energy in the world.
In the spirit of Thanksgiving coming up and the new attitude on the board, I'd like to start a writing prompt about things for which we are grateful,
thankful, joyful.
I want us to add to it every day - there IS something, however small, every day you can say for which you are grateful, even if the only thing you can
think of is that you're grateful you weren't born a bug. There's something. Read the other comments if you need to be inspired, then write your
own.
Let's keep this real, powerful, gratitude, and let's keep it flowing.
Tell me what you're grateful for?
Love and stuff,
Michy
~~Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations~~
Do just once what others say you can't do, and you will never pay attention to their limitations again." James R. Cook
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Michy
Boss(y) Lady / Site Owner / Admin
Posts: 7022
Registered: 1/15/2008
Location: Texas
Member Is Offline
Mood: Peaceful
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I am grateful to be alive, a gift given to me, as there was a time when that gift was dangerously close to coming to an end. I know what it feels like
to be that scared, to worry you are dying, and that only makes my gratitude at living and being alive all the more. I bitch and moan about all the
meds I have to take and the doctor's appointments, but in the end, I'm grateful for them too - because without them, I wouldn't be grateful to be
alive.
I'm so grateful for my children. I am so blessed with the two best kiddos ever, though one of them's not so much a kid anymore and the other is
growing up way too fast, I'm grateful I've given them the tools and experiences and love they need to flourish and grow and thrive.
I am grateful for puppies, the little ones, the big ones and the human lost puppies. I love puppies. It's impossible to stay sad around a puppy for
long.
I'm grateful for cats. They remind me to be humble.
I'm grateful for computers and internet, without which I wouldn't have gotten to meet so many people who do my heart good.
I'm grateful for friends and family--both blood and chosen--being in my life in a way that renews me, supports me, energizes me when I don't feel I've
got what it takes to move one foot in front of the other.
I'm grateful for smilies. They, well, make me smile.
I'm grateful for the way the sunlight shines through the windows early in the morning, turning ordinary house dust into a sparkling display of
glittered gold. I love early morning sunlight. It's been a long time since I've meditated outside in the early morning when the world is quieter,
calmer, more peaceful. I love the sounds of a city waking.
I'm grateful for God, the Universe, the creation and creator behind all that is.
I'm grateful.
Love and stuff,
Michy
~~Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations~~
Do just once what others say you can't do, and you will never pay attention to their limitations again." James R. Cook
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Melanie
Founding Member
Posts: 4632
Registered: 1/17/2008
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Mood: In the inquisition chamber with the killer.
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I've been struggling with feeling overwhelmed lately, and the stress surrounding my father.
But, ya know what?
I'm grateful for my father today. We haven't always gotten along, but he was always there for me... not emotionally really... financially mostly. And
before that strikes anyone as being horribly shallow, let me add this. My father shows he cares by giving what he can give, which is money for the
most part. He's not equipped to give emotionally. He's a provider. I'm grateful that he always cared enough to support me, the best way he knew how,
no matter what wrong turn I took.
And I'm grateful now that I have the ability now to repay him the best way I know how. I'm grateful that I can work at home and homeschool my kids so
I can be there for my father as his life winds down. I'm grateful for the universal balance that gives to each of us what we need when we need it,
even if we don't want it at the time.
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Michy
Boss(y) Lady / Site Owner / Admin
Posts: 7022
Registered: 1/15/2008
Location: Texas
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Mood: Peaceful
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(nodding) you know, it's not shallow. I know what you mean. Certain types of men of a certain age were raise to be tough and strong and the way they
show love and devotion is by 'taking care of' and 'protecting' things that are important to them. I 'get' it. I know it's tough sometimes to keep
perspective, and I feel for you, but you're right about balance.
I'm grateful for YOU Melanie... I really am.
Love and stuff,
Michy
~~Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations~~
Do just once what others say you can't do, and you will never pay attention to their limitations again." James R. Cook
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Lindsay M
Literary Master
Posts: 4028
Registered: 7/22/2008
Location: Washington State
Member Is Offline
Mood: *Yawn*
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There are little things I am thankful for:
I appreciate the scent of coffee tickling my nose in the morning. It is sometimes the only thing that can drag me out of my bed after a sleepless
night with the twins.
I love the way the crisp air feels on my face on the days when I can manage to get all of us out for a walk. I am thankful that being outside with the
fall leaves crunching beneath my feet refreshes my spirits and brightens my mood.
That beautiful red Starbucks cup makes me so happy, especially when it is filled with a triple grande reduced fat no nutmeg eggnog latte.
Vodka. I have found that the more kids I have, the more I drink (I'm totally kidding! (Sorta.)) and I am thankful for vodka and its ability to blend
with so many different beverages. I am thankful for the man I get to have a cocktail with.
Which brings me to the bigger things I am thankful for:
The love of my husband, my friends, and my family. This year has been wonderful and horrible all at the same time and each and every one of these
important people in my life have been there with me every step of the way, celebrating with me or letting me cry. Whether it was a friend showing up
at my doorstep with coffee in hand and a shoulder to lean on, online friends giving me cyber hugs and encouragement, or my husband simply hugging me
silently while I sobbed into his chest, I am so very thankful for the people in my life.
Of course, I am thankful for my children. They are so frustrating, so beautiful, so trying, and so amazing all at once. They make me feel crazy with
love and adoration and crazy... well, just plain crazy. They stretch me in ways I have never been stretched before. They make me swallow my pride and
put on a happy face, in times when I wouldn't normally be able to. They have taught me the true meaning of "Forgive and Forget" and "Life is too
short."
And, I am thankful for me. I am thankful that I can be a friend and loved-one to other people that they have been to me. I am thankful that I am able
to convey to my friends and family my love and appreciation for them. I am thankful that I can write, because where I lack the ability to speak well
on my feet, I can almost always affect people positively with my writing. I am so very grateful for the many opportunities that have been opened up to
me since I have found confidence in my writing, largely through AW and because of Michy and my other friends here.
♥
Now, you'll have to excuse me, because Clint's making us Vodka and Cokes. 
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itzrissa2u
Literary Master
Posts: 3533
Registered: 2/19/2008
Member Is Offline
Mood: Procrastinatable...wha? it's a word because I say it is
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Okay, mine's not gonna be all eloquent and stuff like ya'll have written- geez I'm not a writer or anyt- oh wait- never mind.
I am grateful for my wonderful husband who drives me crazy sometimes. When I said i wanted to quit to write full time he didn't try to stop me. He was
supportive in a way I might not have been if he wanted to do it.
I am grateful for my crazy son who makes me laugh and love and scream and cry more than I ever thought was possible.
I am grateful for my friends who accept me worts and all. Who make me laugh and encourage me. Who help me when I need it. I posted on facebook that my
smoke detector was going off and I was too short to reach it. I got a phone call a short while later from my friend who lives down the street asking
if I wanted her husband to come over and fix it. How blessed am I? My friends kick ass.
I am thankful I have finished my book and will be really, really REALLY thankful when I am done editing. (like reallly) 
I am grateful God gave me a sense of humor so I can laugh when I feel like crying or screaming.
I am grateful for the smilies as well, but this one i particular which never fails to crack the kid up...
[Edited on 11-22-2009 by itzrissa2u]
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Skwerly
Literary Master
Posts: 3327
Registered: 5/17/2008
Location: Yucaipa, California
Member Is Offline
Mood: Determined.
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I'm one who tends *no*t to forget where he came from, so to speak, and so I will * ALWAYS * and forever be grateful for this board, and Michelle
personally.
I was struggling at a part-time crap job until I got bored one night on the PC. I decided that because I liked writing and reading, I would see if
there was a forum that supported that. Oh, I found one, and much, much more.
Because of this board, and SOLEY because of this board, I now work for myself. I said goodbye to the boss man October 10th of last year, and haven't
looked back since.
Through all the things, both good and bad, that flow through the pages of this board, that one thing is a constant, and will always remain true.
Thank you, Michelle. You change more things for folks than you realize sometimes.
[Edited on 11/22/2009 by Skwerly]
I seemed to be looking down from an immense height upon a twilit grotto, knee-deep with filth, where a white-bearded daemon swineherd drove about
with his staff a flock of fungous, flabby beasts whose appearance filled me with unutterable loathing.
My AC page:
Derek's Junk
My Horror Writing Forum: http://writersofhorror.myfreeforum.org/index.php
I **love** creepy trees!
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Michy
Boss(y) Lady / Site Owner / Admin
Posts: 7022
Registered: 1/15/2008
Location: Texas
Member Is Offline
Mood: Peaceful
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I am grateful Lindsay mentioned Starbucks. But did you have to mention it so late at night so they are closed and I can't get any right now, humm? My
weakness is the pumpkin spice lattee, two splenda, no whip, with a dash of sinmoanmoan on it (cinnamon).
good stuff...
Love and stuff,
Michy
~~Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations~~
Do just once what others say you can't do, and you will never pay attention to their limitations again." James R. Cook
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Michy
Boss(y) Lady / Site Owner / Admin
Posts: 7022
Registered: 1/15/2008
Location: Texas
Member Is Offline
Mood: Peaceful
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Aww, Derek. ;; blush ;;
I don't think I've told you recently how unbelievably proud I am of where you've taken things. You know, you're one of those who jumped in, said you
were going to do it, and you did. You never balked at working hard, taking crap jobs, and making it work for you--there's something to be said for
that kind of tenacity.
So I'm very grateful for you and your success, and I hope it continues and grows exponentially.
Now we just need to get some of that noir fiction of yours published - it has much potential, if we can find a good market for you.
Love and stuff,
Michy
~~Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations~~
Do just once what others say you can't do, and you will never pay attention to their limitations again." James R. Cook
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Melanie
Founding Member
Posts: 4632
Registered: 1/17/2008
Member Is Offline
Mood: In the inquisition chamber with the killer.
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I'm grateful for YOU Melanie... I really am.
Well thanks, Michy. Right back at ya.
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caribbeanmuse
Literary Master
Posts: 2160
Registered: 8/1/2008
Location: Caribbean
Member Is Offline
Mood: caribilicious
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Just today my mother, who is also my very best friend, sat down and told me how terribly grateful she was for my being by their side while they (mom
and dad) are struggling with health issues. I told her that I do what I do for them to show my gratitude for all they had done for me my whole life.
I am very grateful to my dear husband who makes no qualms whatsoever about me rushing to be with them even it if means leaving him and my life behind
for awhile. I too, am grateful for having found this board and the support and friendship I've received this past year. thank you Michy for that. I
too, am grateful for puppies. How could we ever exist without our four legged loved ones? I am grateful for the work I've found and a few special
people who appreciate my hard work and dedication. I really appreciate the ones that pay. I too have an appreciation for Vodka and Pinot Grigio and
Zoloft.
Living in a third world country makes me grateful for my American citizenship and my beautiful country. But the beach and waterfalls and stuff are
pretty awesome too.
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Michy
Boss(y) Lady / Site Owner / Admin
Posts: 7022
Registered: 1/15/2008
Location: Texas
Member Is Offline
Mood: Peaceful
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I am grateful that our Caribbean member is going to share photos of waterfalls and stuff???
Love and stuff,
Michy
~~Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations~~
Do just once what others say you can't do, and you will never pay attention to their limitations again." James R. Cook
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caribbeanmuse
Literary Master
Posts: 2160
Registered: 8/1/2008
Location: Caribbean
Member Is Offline
Mood: caribilicious
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http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-1092-Caribbean-Travel-Examiner~y...
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Michy
Boss(y) Lady / Site Owner / Admin
Posts: 7022
Registered: 1/15/2008
Location: Texas
Member Is Offline
Mood: Peaceful
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Wow... I adore waterfalls. What a gorgeous picture!
Love and stuff,
Michy
~~Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations~~
Do just once what others say you can't do, and you will never pay attention to their limitations again." James R. Cook
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caribbeanmuse
Literary Master
Posts: 2160
Registered: 8/1/2008
Location: Caribbean
Member Is Offline
Mood: caribilicious
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Thanks, they really are special!
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jckat
Accentuate Writer!
Posts: 994
Registered: 10/8/2008
Member Is Offline
Mood: No Mood
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I am grateful for rice. Yep, simple little white grains of starch. But it is so much a part of my life right now. A rice cooker full, more than once
a day, tying two very different families together at meal time. 50 Kilo bags of rice being repackaged to hand out to people who need them. Landing in
another foreign country after flying all night to have the wonderful ladies in the restaurant smile and seem to find it odd that I eat rice for
breakfast...but it was an ice breaker and now they offer me something different they enjoy with their rice each day. Yes, it probably sounds silly
but I am grateful for rice.
This year living where I live has taught me so much more about gratitude than I could have ever imagined. Not only has it taught me about the things I
see day to day but also to assess it in my own life too.
I am grateful I was born and raised where I was and even though I thought I had things tough before I know now I will always be grateful I did not
worry if I would be fed at night. And as a parent I didn't have to worry about where the meal for my child would be coming from. I have seen true
gratitude when handing food to a child whose pieced together shanty house was just washed away by floods.
I am grateful for my job no matter how much I gripe, moan, and complain about it. I am grateful those who work for me are hard working people who
truly support me even when I don't feel I do enough to deserve it.
I am grateful for my health. In spite of my body feeling like it turned upside down on me this year, it was an awakening of how harsh things can be
when the body isn't doing what it should. I am thankful to have it semi returned to normal for now.
I am grateful for the man in my life, who for 15 years has been everything I could ever want and is the perfect calm balance to the worrier in me. I
am grateful that he understands the need for me to be gone what seems like forever this year and has stepped up and took on more of my
responsibilities so I could juggle the woes of the job. Although I am thinking I need to mention this whole vodka and coke thing that Lindsey has
going on...
And I am grateful for this board. Stuff happens in life, and people grow apart. For years I've watched forums come and go, and at the end of the day
when you wonder how someone on forum is...where they are, ....how they are feeling...well then you know it's not a forum, it's a friend.
This forum gave me a push when I needed it. I know I am not here as much as most, and I know I don't contribute as much as I should. But when I am
not around I do wonder how people are and how life is treating them. I am grateful to have the chance to know you all.
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andisaid
Literary Master
Posts: 3255
Registered: 2/21/2008
Location: Connecticut
Member Is Offline
Mood: A Twitter
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orgasms, cats, husband, children, Mom, me, Michy, the board here, the fact that my arm is finally healing, etc etc etc
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Witchmojo
Master Writer
Posts: 1218
Registered: 2/13/2009
Member Is Offline
Mood: Always thoughtful
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This thread is the kind I need on a day like today. I went for a long walk this morning, because I was in a bad space, wanted to blow the clouds away
etc. When I got home, I had one of 'those' phonecalls. I lost my dad last night.
Now please, I'm not looking for condolences and stuff, there's no need to mention it, I'm just fine, but it really made me think about the things I am
grateful for.
I'm grateful for all the memories I have of my dad, because they are the only good ones from my childhood.
I'm grateful that my dad taught me right from wrong and made me strong, instead of a weak and willing 'little woman'.
I'm grateful that, even if it wasn't as long or as often as it could have been, my dad met all his grandchildren.
I'm grateful that my dad didn't linger.
I'm grateful that I still bear his name and I'm proud to be the last holder of it in his line.
I'm grateful that someone knew my number and passed it on to members of my family so that they could tell me what happened.
I'm grateful that he was my dad and that I had the chance to love him.
(I'm also grateful for central heating as it's bloody freezing here!)
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caribbeanmuse
Literary Master
Posts: 2160
Registered: 8/1/2008
Location: Caribbean
Member Is Offline
Mood: caribilicious
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oh Gillian, I know you don't want condolences but as I am caring for my elderly father your words really strike home. I truly am sorry for your loss,
but it seems you are in a good space about it. All the best to you.
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DClore
Member Writer
Posts: 85
Registered: 10/24/2009
Location: St Joseph, Michigan
Member Is Offline
Mood: Grateful
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re: Gratitude
If you look at my mood indicator on this site, and my tag line, you will see that I couldn't agree with you more concerning gratitude. One of my
friends has begun to call me "Mr. Thankful". I started a mini-blog in September for the single purpose of expressing my gratitude for anything form
rainbows, to music, to Sundays. I found that along my hectic, driven, near-obsession to find happiness and hold onto it, something was missing.
One day I stopped to be grateful for all the wonderful things in the world that I truly do not deserve, and I felt so good that I changed my goal
from seeking happiness to seeking gratefulness. Six months later I found that on my search to find gratefulness, I had stumbled over happiness.
Imagine that. My hope for all of us is that we will continually stumble over happiness in our pursuit of gratefulness
Let me leave you with a great quote.
"When gratitude dies on the altar of a man's heart, that man is well nigh hopeless."
[Edited on 11/22/2009 by DClore]
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Lindsay M
Literary Master
Posts: 4028
Registered: 7/22/2008
Location: Washington State
Member Is Offline
Mood: *Yawn*
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| Quote: | | I am grateful for the man in my life, who for 15 years has been everything I could ever want and is the perfect calm balance to the worrier in me.
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From one worrier to another... I love this!
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andisaid
Literary Master
Posts: 3255
Registered: 2/21/2008
Location: Connecticut
Member Is Offline
Mood: A Twitter
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Oh Gillian, I'm sorry for your loss.
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Michy
Boss(y) Lady / Site Owner / Admin
Posts: 7022
Registered: 1/15/2008
Location: Texas
Member Is Offline
Mood: Peaceful
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((((GILL)))) I am grateful that in the face of tragedy, Gillian can find comfort and good memories. I am sorry for your loss.
I am grateful for long naps, much needed, and good friends, much appreciated.
I'm grateful for my dog, who somehow always wakes me up in a good mood, so happy to see me wake from a nap, you'd think I've been gone for days.
I'm grateful for... bathrooms. Can you imagine if there were no such things as bathroom and we had to all squat outside to do our business? Yuck!
I'm grateful for showers.... I'm such a shower nut. I'm about to go take one!
Keep the gratitude coming - even if you've posted once, post again.... every day there's new and wonderful things for which we can be grateful!
Love and stuff,
Michy
~~Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations~~
Do just once what others say you can't do, and you will never pay attention to their limitations again." James R. Cook
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Melanie
Founding Member
Posts: 4632
Registered: 1/17/2008
Member Is Offline
Mood: In the inquisition chamber with the killer.
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Yeah, bathrooms are good.
I'm thankful today that I can write, and not because it makes me money, and not because I feel alive when writing fiction. I'm grateful for my writing
ability because it is the only way I can communicate effectively.
If we all suddenly appeared in a room together, I'd be the mute one biting my fingernails nervously in the corner. The fact that I can write without
anxiety and convey my thoughts and feelings somewhat effectively is wonderful.
I'm also thankful for slippers, 'cause my feet are freezing.
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Witchmojo
Master Writer
Posts: 1218
Registered: 2/13/2009
Member Is Offline
Mood: Always thoughtful
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This morning, I'm grateful for the sunshine after a windy and wet night.
I'm also grateful for the urge to clean the house (cos it's a wreck!)
I'm grateful for Michy's blog prompt about being a writer, because I was seriously wondering what the heck to blog about today!
I'm extremely grateful that this forum has picked up again and feels like a safe place once more.
I'm grateful the Asda man is delivering my groceries later... 'cause he has Twiglets on that van and I'm a-cravin'
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jckat
Accentuate Writer!
Posts: 994
Registered: 10/8/2008
Member Is Offline
Mood: No Mood
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Today I am extremely grateful for the extra blanket I found in the closet of tonights hotel. The fact there were traces of snow on the ground was bad
enough but arriving to a room with an un heated bathroom would have made for a very bad day with no way to get warm. Thankfully the extra covers has
done the trick.
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jckat
Accentuate Writer!
Posts: 994
Registered: 10/8/2008
Member Is Offline
Mood: No Mood
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Sorry for the triplicate posts! I'm grateful to have a blackberry to communicate with, even when it does stuff like this!
[Edited on 11/24/2009 by jckat]
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jckat
Accentuate Writer!
Posts: 994
Registered: 10/8/2008
Member Is Offline
Mood: No Mood
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sorry again for multiple of same post...but it's a new day and today I am grateful for the chance to go HOME tomorrow
[Edited on 11/24/2009 by jckat]
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Morecoffee
Literary Master
Posts: 4524
Registered: 2/7/2008
Location: New York
Member Is Offline
Mood: Is suppose to be working but is hanging out here instead!
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Today I'm grateful for the special little 'surprises' my 4-year old plastered me with when she climbed into my bed to snuggle. Those heartfelt hugs
and kisses really turned around the sour mood I'd woke up with.
I'm also grateful for the precious, caring young woman my 8 1/2-year old is becoming. The thoughtfulness and sensitivity she displays never ceases to
impress me. There's just something so amazingly beautiful about someone who puts so much heart and love into everything they do - like setting up a
special snack time for me the other day, complete with my favorite music, candlelight, a snack she made herself, a massage from her little hands and a
special song she wrote and sang for me. The reasoning she gave me was simply because I'm the most important person to her and she wanted to help me
relax because I do so much. Wow...
God, I'm so grateful for my kids. They make me realize so much about myself everyday and remind me how to appreciate even the smallest things around
me. I am blessed with two amazing children when the doctors told me I may never be able to have any. I am so grateful the doctors were wrong and I'm
so grateful those girls are mine.
[Edited on 11-23-2009 by Morecoffee]
[Edited on 11-23-2009 by Morecoffee]
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Morecoffee
Literary Master
Posts: 4524
Registered: 2/7/2008
Location: New York
Member Is Offline
Mood: Is suppose to be working but is hanging out here instead!
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Oh, yeah. I'm also grateful for the edit button because I'm making tons of mistakes this morning! Wouldn't it be nice if there was an edit button on
life that would allow quick changes like that? I'd be really grateful for that!
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Witchmojo
Master Writer
Posts: 1218
Registered: 2/13/2009
Member Is Offline
Mood: Always thoughtful
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I think all of us would like one of these
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Morecoffee
Literary Master
Posts: 4524
Registered: 2/7/2008
Location: New York
Member Is Offline
Mood: Is suppose to be working but is hanging out here instead!
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Yes, please! I think I'll add one of those to my Christmas list, Gill. 
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sharkbytes
Master Writer
Posts: 1051
Registered: 1/17/2008
Location: Michigan
Member Is Offline
Mood: anxious for the last 3 miles
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I am grateful for good genetics. I know that's very selfish... and nothing I can do anything about except give thanks. But it means that my health
is very good, and I can make some of my dreams come true.
In particular, my dream to hike the entire North Country National Scenic Trail. I'm only 300 miles from being the first woman to hike the whole thing
and "good Lord willin' and the crik don't rise" I will finish next summer. I'm not trying to brag here. It only makes me a hero is a very small
circle, but it is the PRIMARY thing that I am grateful for right now... that I am being allowed to reach this goal. I've been working on it for 20
years. I'm very good at starting things, and very poor at finishing them, so this quest has been not only a continual source of delight at the trail
itself, but a real source of encouragement that I can finish something. A part of that is that I also FINISHED writing a book about my adventures. I
hope my mother is somewhere clapping her hands that I actually did complete a major project in my life.
So many of my friends are having health problems that I never want to forget how blessed I am that I am still able to go carry my gear through the
woods, hike, bicycle, kayak, etc.
I've been carrying out a personal exercise for years called "My Quality Day," where I have to find at least one thing to enjoy and be grateful for in
every day. That finally culminated in a blog- link below. So, I am also grateful for the internet where I have found a community of people who find
that my attempt to be positive also cheers them!
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RaiscaraAvalon
Superlative Writer
Posts: 456
Registered: 12/5/2008
Location: Lost In The Realms
Member Is Offline
Mood: Need To Learn How To Sleep...
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I am grateful for....ummm...the fact that my ex husband lives over 2000 miles away! And caller id...even though I don't have it right now. 
And I'm grateful that I wasn't born a bug!
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Lindsay M
Literary Master
Posts: 4028
Registered: 7/22/2008
Location: Washington State
Member Is Offline
Mood: *Yawn*
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Aww, Jo, yours made me smile so widely! I hope and pray I am also raising kids to be as selfless and thoughtful as your daughter is.
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Morecoffee
Literary Master
Posts: 4524
Registered: 2/7/2008
Location: New York
Member Is Offline
Mood: Is suppose to be working but is hanging out here instead!
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Quote: Originally posted by Lindsay M  | | Aww, Jo, yours made me smile so widely! I hope and pray I am also raising kids to be as selfless and thoughtful as your daughter is. |
Thank you, Lins. My dream is to one day grow up to be the kind of person she's already turning out to be!
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Nancy G.
Literary Master
Posts: 3793
Registered: 10/30/2008
Location: Arkansas
Member Is Offline
Mood: Happy!
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I live about 9 or 10 miles away from the major road into town, and the drive in is a delight. That is my grateful time. Of course I start with all
those things already mentioned by others: for 48 years with a man who made me a better person than I would have been without him: for 4 great children
who all turned out to be good, kind, self-supporting, people that any parent would be proud of: for my parents and their raising of me, and the
genetics from them. As I drive, the things I see bring forth more gratitude: the bright fall leaves or the pale green ones of spring, or the beauty of
snow: the dogwoods and redbuds blooming in the spring: the deer that bound across the road before me: gratitude I didn't hit the deer: the mountains
that parallel the road, beautiful in summer green or fall orange: the friends I am going to meet: the several circle of friends that are there for me:
the comfort of my modest home: the list could go on forever. I would never run out of things to be grateful for. And of course one of them is this
board. Without it, I probably wouldn't be writing today. And there would be no place to share my thoughts like this. Thank you, Michy, for this forum,
and thank you all for sharing in this place.
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Michy
Boss(y) Lady / Site Owner / Admin
Posts: 7022
Registered: 1/15/2008
Location: Texas
Member Is Offline
Mood: Peaceful
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Today, I am grateful for cooler weather, crisper air, friends and family (thanksgiving is on me this year and I'm so looking forward to it!)...
... but right now, at this moment, I'm grateful for long, hot, steamy, vanilla floral scented showers. Or at least, I will be, in a few minutes when I
put this computer down and go lounge in the shower until I turn into a prune.
It has been another fantastic day, with calm and inner peace.
I wish it for all of you - peace. There's something so amazing about inner peace.
Love you all...
Love and stuff,
Michy
~~Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations~~
Do just once what others say you can't do, and you will never pay attention to their limitations again." James R. Cook
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Witchmojo
Master Writer
Posts: 1218
Registered: 2/13/2009
Member Is Offline
Mood: Always thoughtful
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This morning I am in a rush as I am off to visit with #1 daughter, but...
I am grateful to said daughter for chatting to me last night when I was feeling particularly bored and a little low.
I guess that also makes me grateful for the existence of msn!
It's really a little early to say anything, but....
I'm also grateful for #1 daughter's news that she is pregnant. Very early days yet, but I smile inside every time I think about it
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stacy1172
Superlative Writer
Posts: 426
Registered: 5/24/2009
Member Is Offline
Mood: Stressed
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I am grateful for my 3 wonderful kids. Who teach me things about myself each day. I am grateful for their love and understanding. I am struggling
right now with the feeling that I am not a good enough parent. And then my kiddies do something simple that shows me that even though I am not
perfect, I have done more things that are right than wrong.
I am grateful to have a loving man in my life that accepts me just the way I am. He lifts me up when I am down and wipes away my tears and assures me
that things will get better.
And selfishly today, I am grateful for who I am. I know in my heart that I am trying to do the right thing no matter what others tell me. I am
grateful that I don't need to make others feel bad in order to feel better about myself.
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Michy
Boss(y) Lady / Site Owner / Admin
Posts: 7022
Registered: 1/15/2008
Location: Texas
Member Is Offline
Mood: Peaceful
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| Quote: Originally posted by Witchmojo | This morning I am in a rush as I am off to visit with #1 daughter, but...
I am grateful to said daughter for chatting to me last night when I was feeling particularly bored and a little low.
I guess that also makes me grateful for the existence of msn!
It's really a little early to say anything, but....
I'm also grateful for #1 daughter's news that she is pregnant. Very early days yet, but I smile inside every time I think about it |
Early congrats, grandma!
Love and stuff,
Michy
~~Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations~~
Do just once what others say you can't do, and you will never pay attention to their limitations again." James R. Cook
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Michy
Boss(y) Lady / Site Owner / Admin
Posts: 7022
Registered: 1/15/2008
Location: Texas
Member Is Offline
Mood: Peaceful
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| Quote: Originally posted by stacy1172 | I am grateful for my 3 wonderful kids. Who teach me things about myself each day. I am grateful for their love and understanding. I am struggling
right now with the feeling that I am not a good enough parent. And then my kiddies do something simple that shows me that even though I am not
perfect, I have done more things that are right than wrong.
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Here's how I look at it. Being a good parent is all about guilt - see, a bad parent wouldn't feel guilty about not being a good enough parent.... see
the paradox? LOL You're an awesome mommy!
Love and stuff,
Michy
~~Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations~~
Do just once what others say you can't do, and you will never pay attention to their limitations again." James R. Cook
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Michy
Boss(y) Lady / Site Owner / Admin
Posts: 7022
Registered: 1/15/2008
Location: Texas
Member Is Offline
Mood: Peaceful
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Today, I am grateful for hazy sunrises. They might not be as brilliant as the cloudless blue and slashing bold colors of a west Texas sunrise, but
they have their own unique charm. I'm grateful for every day the sun comes up and I wake to take in that first morning air... that breath that says,
"Ah, I'm alive." Of course, it's always a better first breath when it's filled with the aroma of coffee.
Which leads me to being grateful for coffee. All sorts of coffee. Every type of coffee imaginable.
I'm grateful for best friends who snore so loud you can hear them from the next room.... Remember, I'm grateful for the friend; I never said I was
grateful for the snoring!
I'm grateful for brat boys who are most peaceful and quiet when sleeping.
I'm once again grateful for puppy dogs. Puppy dogs are the bestest!
I'm grateful for chlorine. It gets out blood stains my son gets all over comforters and doesn't tell anyone until days later and it makes a murky pool
too long neglected look crystal and blue overnight, and it makes the dull coffee pot come back to life, removes signs of age and stains, and though
many don't like the way it smells, I think it's got a unique crisp cleanness to it that just says - freshly cleansed. Definitely grateful for
chlorine.
I'm grateful for long hair... recently, I've been complaining so much about what a hassle my hair is, but this morning, I caught a glimpse of myself
in the mirror in the bathroom as I walked by naked, and instead of seeing any rolls, dimples, sags, crinkles or anything else I don't like, all I saw
was my curly and waving red hair flowing down my back. I'm really grateful for long hair, even if that's a vane statement.
I'm grateful my family is excited about all coming together again for the first time in years for a real, traditional family Thanksgiving and that I'm
the host of it this time, with me providing the meal and the cooking and the accommodations. I've always felt like a bit of an outcast in this family,
a bit of a blacksheep, and this Thanksgiving, them coming to me, and everyone looking forward to it, is a blessing for me in ways I cannot even begin
to describe.
Do you know how good it feels when asked, "Can we bring or do anything?" and I can say, quite honestly, "Nope, I've got it covered. Just bring
yourself and be ready to eat!"
I'm grateful to steroids that will get my body through it and love that will get my soul and heart through it. I'm also grateful for Pergo flooring
and sliding desk office chairs which will allow me to cook without stressing myself too much. Wheelchairs are a pain in the arse to move indoors, but
office chairs slide any directions I want them to go!
Mostly.... I'm just really grateful to have found my gratitude again. This morning and every morning, I am grateful to come in here and read all this
gratitude and it lifts me up even higher than I was before I read it.
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Love and stuff,
Michy
~~Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations~~
Do just once what others say you can't do, and you will never pay attention to their limitations again." James R. Cook
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Melanie
Founding Member
Posts: 4632
Registered: 1/17/2008
Member Is Offline
Mood: In the inquisition chamber with the killer.
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Today I am extremely grateful that I have a reasonably strong work ethic and dedication to doing what I have to do even when I don't want to do it.
Especially when the - very enticing - alternative is reading all these really great stories in this anthology!
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Mystress Gaia
Master Writer
Posts: 1651
Registered: 6/23/2008
Member Is Online
Mood: Dreamy
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I am thankful for all the trials I walk through for I learn from each of them. I am thankful for my family and for the good times as well as the bad
because without the bad times I wouldn't know how good the good times could be.
I am thankful for my children because I can love them as much as I want. I am thankful for my strengths and for knowing my weaknesses.
I am thankful for my friends because they know how to help me even when they don't know I need help.
There is a lot more I'm thankful for but it would take a long time to write. I am thankful for this forum and the friends and opportunities I have
found here.
And by golly, I am thankful that I am a published author on Amazon. I didn't realize what a big deal that would be to me but it was and I am thankful
for it.
I love you all!
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Witchmojo
Master Writer
Posts: 1218
Registered: 2/13/2009
Member Is Offline
Mood: Always thoughtful
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I'm grateful for the fact that I'm apparently going to be Mommom rather than grandma
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Michy
Boss(y) Lady / Site Owner / Admin
Posts: 7022
Registered: 1/15/2008
Location: Texas
Member Is Offline
Mood: Peaceful
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Awwwwww!
I love it!
Love and stuff,
Michy
~~Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations~~
Do just once what others say you can't do, and you will never pay attention to their limitations again." James R. Cook
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Jenn.W
Accentuate Writer!
Posts: 892
Registered: 5/22/2008
Location: Priest River, Idaho
Member Is Offline
Mood: Energized!
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I dont know how I missed this thread and I really, really needed it the last few days.
Gill ((Hugs)) I am so sorry for the loss of your father and excited for the news of a grandbaby! For every door that is closed another is opened...
I havent been grateful for much these days, but this helps us all sit down and think about what do have in life.
First and foremost I am grateful for my four wonderful, crazy, and trying children. My oldest daughter is 13 and my youngest is 1. If not for my
children I would not be who I am today. I learn so much from them everyday.
I am grateful for a man who has supported me in many ways. He is not very good at it, but I am able to stay home and take care of my children and
write, and go to school. Many women are not able to do that these days. He is a good man and I hope that someday I can support him with a dream, as he
has supported mine.
I am thankful for our military, I miss my Army family, I miss living on post, I miss having Thanksgiving with all the single soldiers who wont be
going home for the holiday. Every year we open our home on Thanksgiving and have a giant feast for anyone who wants to come. This is hard for us, not
doing it this year, but I thank god for these soldiers everyday. These men and women who put their lives on the line in the service of something
greater.
I am grateful for this forum, I have learned so much here. When I first found Accentuate Writers Forum and Michy and all of you, I was pregnant, about
to move of the Army post, going to classes, and wondering if I would ever move on more with my writing. I found a haven here, A place where everyone
wants the same thing and a place of caring unlike many forums I have been to. I found motivation, and knowledge. I will ALWAYS be grateful for this
board and everyone on it. Luv you guys!
I am also grateful for little things like You Tube. If you need a video on how to tie a tie, You Tube has one!
Be it ever so humble, I am grateful for the roof over my head, my woodstove, running water and a flushing toilet. Everyday things which I think
everyone would appreciate a lot more if they went only one day without them.
I am also grateful for non profit organizations. They do such wonderful things for many, many great causes.
I guess thats it for today!
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Queen_LoLo
Jr. Member Writer
Posts: 42
Registered: 8/21/2008
Member Is Offline
Mood: No Mood
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I am grateful that exactly one year ago today, I was sitting in my grandmother's house unpacking Christmas gifts. We had made a quick trip down to TX
to see her and my aunt before Thanksgiving. I remember how wonderful it was to just sit and talk with her, how my boyfriend kept on making silly jokes
to make her laugh, and how her red lipstick made her look younger than 82. I remember how she told me that she wanted me to be happy and that she
wanted me to achieve my dreams. I also remember a conversation we had that upset me, when she starting talking about how she wouldn't be here
forever. The thing I remember most is that last hug.
Had I known that would have been the last time I would see her, I wouldn't have made the drive home. I would have stayed and made up for the times I
was too busy to call her. All the times I was too busy with my "important" life to send her a card.
I would have tried to redeem myself. She started to go downhill in the middle of May, but I still refused to accept the fact that she might pass on.
At the beginning of June, I finally got the go ahead from my boss to take a few days off, so I could fly down to see her. I was sitting at my
computer, searching for the best flight fares when my mom called me to tell me it was too late.
Still, I am grateful for that last visit and strangely enough for her passing. Her death was the the first catalyst that gave me the kick in the butt
I needed to start writing again. See, one of her dreams was for me to publish a book. When I slog through my tenth content article of the day or my
heart plummets when I receive yet another rejection and I just want to give up, I hear her voice in my head encouraging me to keep going. And you can
be damn sure that when my first book gets published, whether it's two or twenty years from now, it is going to be dedicated to her as a final tribute
for the love of literature she instilled in me from the time I was three.
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Nancy G.
Literary Master
Posts: 3793
Registered: 10/30/2008
Location: Arkansas
Member Is Offline
Mood: Happy!
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Jenn, your mentioning the ages of your oldest and youngest children reminded me of something else I am thankful for. My adult children all get along
(most of the time). Although occasionally they get ticked off by something one of them did, for the most part they are all friends. The day after
Thanksgiving my oldest (50) and my youngest (36) are going to drive to Georgia to pick up 100K baseball cards my son bought (probably an eBay auction,
but I don't know for sure.) And they'll probably geo-cache along the way there and back. Three of my four share that hobby, so they spend a lot of
time together. So many of my friends don't get along with their siblings, or their children don't get along, and I am thankful that mine find pleasure
in being with each other, and look for occasions to do things with each other.
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Don't make me go all Ninja on yo ass! 
