It’s November again and I have a lot to be thankful for. 2016 has been one for the books for memories, love, and laughter. My heart is overflowing with gratitude for the people in my life this year. From those I have met during my travels to my parents there have been some special moments to be grateful for.

A lot can happen in a year, and this time of year allows us to reconnect and share a cup of coffee, a glass of wine, or exchange letters or cards to say hello. There is something to be said for a grateful heart and the recognition of people, places, and things that have shaped who we are. Gratitude keeps us humble, and it keeps us connecting. When we allow gratitude into our lives, we allow room for growth. Our hearts open up and appreciate the smallest of things.

The world we live in is ever changing, often scary at times. If we all expressed gratitude each day, we could influence conversations and outcomes from the heart. Gratitude is powerful, it focuses on the positive and kills the negative.

There is so much to be thankful for. As I reflect on 2016, I look at the what has influenced me for the better. This year so many milestones have been crossed. I am grateful for those things that have taken me out of my comfort zone and I am thankful for the many writing opportunities.

As I’ve traveled across the globe, I’ve laughed so hard I’ve cried, and I’ve cried so hard I’ve laughed. There has been ups and downs and hard decisions, and incredible experiences.

Through all the good and the bad, it would not have been the same without the people in my life. What I am thankful for this year, is all of you. My family, my friends, my business associates, my airplane seat mates, and more. This year the things that mean the most are the time spent with the gifts of my life – each of you.

Experiences shape our life, however the people that shape the experience are the treasure. Those we choose to be around are the treasures of our lives. As I have embraced the moments of 2016 I’ve fallen deeper in love with the conversations that have sparked passion inside my soul.

It’s the smallest things to be grateful for, because in the end they are the big things.

Thank you to the influencers of my 2016, may I be a little more like you each day, and may I share the gifts you have given me with another in 2017.

I am grateful for each of you because you:

Believed in me

Trusted me

Shared with me

Laughed with me

Cried with me

Traveled with me

Had patience with me

Popped corks off of champagne with me

And you chose me…

This holiday season may you remember those that have shown you the kindness you deserve, and may you take that gift and give it to someone else.

And to the love of my life and the daughter I have gained… may you always remember how grateful I am for the connection we share and the gift of true, unconditional love.

Wishing you and yours a Happy Thanksgiving.

May you make new memories to last a lifetime,  

Mandy 🙂