I’ve been taking photos and keeping them in a Gratitude folder. I’ve been trying to take one everyday, but honestly, some days it just doesn’t happen.

But then some days I manage more than one.

There are a lot of baked goods and a lot of cat photos and a lot of quotes—the cats make me laugh; the bakery items remind me that I’m serving my husband with love, and the quotes remind me that there is more to this life than what is happening right now.

Because what is happening right now is causing me lots of anxiety. I try not to doom scroll, but it’s so awful I can’t help it. It’s like trying to look away from a train wreck that is happening right in front of you.

There are also the obviously grateful photos— a baker is thankful for her new stand mixer, the extended warranty that was purchased on her stove, and the new Thrive food delivery service (which replaces Amazon and Whole Foods.)

Usually there are lots of nature photos in my folders, but nature hasn’t really been too cooperative lately.

Then there are small gifts from friends…

And there are my books…

There was also my winter fireplace mantle that started out being Christmas and gave me so much pleasure, I didn’t take it down until last week; and the two cats, who mostly pretend to hate each other but mostly make us laugh (except at 3 AM); and my faith, which helps to give me hope in these dark days.

I will leave you with three hopeful thoughts:

it is only 11 days until Spring begins,

people seem to be waking up to what is happening in this country,

and this lovely quote….

And yes, we need to remind ourselves every day what we are grateful for…