This year feels like a hill that I can’t climb. “Life has taken a 360-degree turn. But it also has gifted me with an abundance of personal and family time and has helped to strengthen our family bonds.” (by T. H-P) We all started appreciating things again that we had taken for granted.
I haven’t written in so long but wanted to write about so many things. Last week I actually wanted to write about my lovely birthday weekend but again, didn’t take the time for it. It is my birthday month, November and it is time to post again.
I miss this blog, my place to write and share my thoughts. I have been working a lot for school and didn’t have enough energy left. Teaching in Corona times has been challenging and exhausting but also very fulfilling. Nevertheless, I need to write more often. Today I just want to share my gratitude with you.
I am so grateful for my family. My husband and I have been on this crazy journey together for almost 28 years! Our older daughter is doing pretty well despite Distance Learning. She has a group of close friends who have been helping each other to get through these tough times. Our younger daughter is still in Germany and goes to school. We miss her SO much, but it was one of the best decisions in 2020 to let her go. My parents are healthy and we are regularly talking on Facetime and sharing our stories.
I am so grateful for my friends and coworkers. All my friends in different places of the world who have gifted me with kind and encouraging words, messages, smiles, and air hugs. Friends who spoilt me with so many wonderful texts and cards for my birthday.
I have learned so much from you about how to live the good life, from savoring the little things to celebrating life’s big moments with style. I love your huge open heart and the way you show your love to your family and friends. You inspire me.
I am so grateful for having a job. I’ve always wanted to be a first-grade teacher once more but did not plan to do this during a pandemic. We started the school year with Distance Learning and I can tell you, teaching 6-year olds to read and write online is not a piece of cake. I felt like talking to a “wall of faces” every day. But these kids are amazing and I am so grateful for every single one of them. In October we went back to in-person teaching at school and even though I was pretty nervous and doubtful about going back – due to lack of time and necessary planning – it turned out to be a blessing for me personally. Driving to school, having a routine, teaching children in a classroom made life more normal again. It gave me a lot of purposes and kept me from thinking about everything else I missed.
I am grateful for our dog and for all the beautiful nature surrounding us. I am grateful for all the hikes I was able to do with my dog. It was my therapy, my time to unwind, to often be alone and to take a deep breath. I so appreciate the wonderful county parks and beaches we have in close proximity.
I am grateful for my Instagram community. I also haven’t posted regularly but I really enjoy being in touch with all these interesting people around the globe. I found so many cool Elementary teachers who share amazing and inspiring content.
I am grateful for our home. I am grateful for a full fridge. I am grateful I don’t have to worry about the bare necessities. I am grateful that this country will have a new president and the first female VP. I am grateful there are a vaccine and drugs that can help us get through this pandemic eventually.
I am grateful for dirty martinis!
Cheers and happy Thanksgiving!
