I try to practice being grateful every day, but it’s important to put it into words sometimes. Today, these are some of the things I’m grateful for.

• An extended family, most of whom live close by. They’re my best friends, (and I don’t have to travel on holidays).
• A part-time job and 2 steady freelance clients. No immediate money worries.
• The life circumstances that allow me write novels. Because telling stories makes me happier than anything else I do.

• Clean running water, central heat, and plenty of food. It’s too easy to forget that these basics are privileges and not everyone has them.
• Good health. (Genetic luck of the draw)
• Heroes: Police officers, firefighters, military personnel, and medical aid workers who are willing to risk their own lives for others, including me.
• A husband who makes me laugh (and occasionally sings to me)
• A small pool in which to exercise everyday (without injuring myself)
• Dozens of wonderful friends both in person and online. (They make such a huge difference in the quality of my life.)
• TIVO (Without it, I could never watch television.)

What are you grateful for at this point in your life?