Top Ten Tuesday: Things I’m Thankful For

This is a completely necessary exercise in thought that I needed right about now. I know that in the scheme of things I am blessed beyond measure. But 2020 sure seems to be kicking my butt. Between coronavirus, coronavirus adjacent, and just other random stuff I feel like the rug has been pulled out from under me again and again. And just when I catch my breath, something else comes to knock me down again. It has been a very trying year, but I know I have a lot to be thankful for as well.

Top Ten Tuesday: Things I’m Thankful For

1. My Family
   Through everything this year, my family has been my rock. Whether I live with them or call them every few days or Zoom once a week my immediate and extended family have been amazing. With Zoom calls with aunts and cousins spread across the country, I get a chance to better know my family and for that, I’m so grateful.
2. My Friends
   Just like my family, I know that I’ve got friends who are there for me when I need them! Also spread across the country, they’re only a phone call away and that means the world to me.
3. My Dog
   Aria is a snuggle bug, a goofball, and knows exactly how to drive me crazy, but she’s also a huge part of my life. I’m so thankful that she’s part of our world!
4. My Career
   This year has not been easy at work, but I know that what I do matters and makes a difference in my community. With drastic budget cuts, a reorganization of departments, and all sorts of new procedures the library has been a source of a lot of stress and anxiety. (I’ve never had so many nightmares about work before!) But, when I get to hear a patron say they are so happy that we’re open or that they feel safe coming in, I know that what we’re doing is good.
5. My House
   I was so proud of myself when I purchased my house over six years ago. Now, I’m shocked with how much we’ve done to it to make it our own. It’s so nice to come home to place I love!
6. Books
   Of course! This year has been a really weird reading year. The fatigue I feel from work has left me with huge amounts of time this year when I didn’t have the energy to even pick up a book, let alone read it. But, I keep coming back to them and when something grabs my attention, for a few minutes I can breathe a little easier and relax a little deeper.
7. Blogging
   I never would have thought when I started this blog that I’d be doing it years later. It’s given me a place to stand up for what I believe, process feelings and emotions, and create amazing resources for families, teachers, librarians, and readers.
8. Social Media Community
   I have been able to meet so many amazing people through social media. I’m so thankful that I can be a part of a community that values and appreciates the same things I do!
9. Technology
   Without technology, I wouldn’t be blogging. But more importantly, I wouldn’t be able to see as many pictures of my niece and nephew growing up, my family on weekly Zoom calls, and connecting with so many people.
10. You
    I am so thankful for all of my readers out there! If you’re celebrating Thanksgiving I hope you take a minute to reflect on what you’re thankful for this year in the midst of a very crazy situation. If you don’t celebrate, have a wonderful week!

The Artsy Reader Girl currently hosts Top Ten Tuesday, an original feature created by The Broke and the Bookish.