Things I'm grateful for

I hate mentioning this over and over but not posting on my blog makes me cranky because it shows that I'm not reading. I still don't have much to report on books as of now. However, I still want to post SOMEthing so I'll take this moment to write about all the things I'm grateful for since Thanksgiving is tomorrow!

1) First and foremost, my health. 2014 has been a series of eye-opening moments for me and one thing I realized was that I haven't been taking care of myself properly. I've been trying to break a lot bad habits (like eating too many carbs and not balancing that with enough protein, having a terrible sleeping schedule, etc.) and so far it hasn't been a picnic but I'm getting there. I've been making my mental and physical health a priority and I can't tell you how much better I feel now. 

2) My home. I can curse mother nature for dropping so many leaves on my lawn but you know what? There are many people in this world who don't have a roof over their heads or food or water. I am blessed that every day I can come home to a place where I feel safe, a room to call my own and a kitchen filled with food. Which brings me to...

3) Food. Here in the U.S. Thanksgiving is known as a time for family and friends to come together to celebrate the good things and to eat. Again, I can't say how thankful I am to know that I can put food in my belly and up to this point in my life, I haven't known what it feels like to starve. *crosses fingers* 

4) My education. The fact that I have an education and that I can read and write at this moment is a wondrous thing. And in two languages no less. Going to school isn't for everybody but at the very least you can learn basic life skills and gain knowledge. Knowledge is something that no one can take from you.

5) My workplace.  I've been working at a library and I have to say, I think it's one of the best places on earth. Not because a library itself is amazing but because my coworkers are all fabulous people who have created such a welcoming atmosphere and because despite the fact that I'm still the new kid, they treat me very well. I honestly cannot complain about going to work. How can I, when I always have a smile on my face there? 

6) My loved ones. I don't want to categorize between family or friends because the only difference to me is that some people are blood related and some are not. But blood doesn't guarantee bonds, experiences do. I'm grateful to have such lovely human (and furry*) beings in my life that radiate kindness and good vibes. I love you all. 

7) Books. My goodness, what kind of bookworm would I be if I didn't include books on this list? My relationship with books and reading continues to evolve over time but what remains constant is the joy that I feel whenever I pick up a book and am able to lose myself in a story and its characters. Books are a staple in my life, a necessity just like food and water and I wouldn't have it any other way. 

I'm sure I'm missing a bunch of other things from this list but these seven are the big ones for me. What are you thankful for?

*My puppy makes me laugh and smile every day. How can I not include him?! ♥