I feel like it's cheating because anyone who's read my blog the last couple of entries knows that I have a lot of things going my way right now and a lot of things to be grateful for - it's hard to list everything and if I tried then I'd be back to writing a very long entry... the same problem I was trying to avoid.

So the short list is:

My new apartment - I love it!  It's the right size for me and it's got a lot of elements that I hoped I'd get (hardwood floors, a nice sized bath tub, space for a studio).  Sure, the kitchen is a little smaller than I would have liked and now I'm left with the challenge of finding furniture to fill it, but overall I think it's a great place where I look forward to making a lot of wonderful memories.  And if you're in the area, feel free to crash at my place... once I have a couch or a bed or an air mattress or something...

My work - both freelance and "regular."  I'm staying fairly steady right now with freelance assignments (though I don't really have any at the moment) and I have a regular part time job to help pay the rent.  Yes, I'm still looking for something closer to my passions and purpose, but I'm making an honest living and I enjoy what I do for now.  And I have an interview next week that I'm optimistic about so perhaps my job situation will be making another positive change soon!

My friends - I hope you know who you are.  Both here in Indianapolis and everywhere else, I know there are people who are watching out for me and praying for me and I feel encouraged regularly.  I'm thankful for all of you and though I'm not always the best about staying in touch, I look forward to having the opportunity to show my gratitude to each and every one of you at the next possible opportunity...

My health - I haven't had health insurance since 2000 and it's something that's easy to overlook when things are going well, but I recognize that I should be thankful that I haven't needed insurance.  I do hope that will change soon... or eventually anyway... but until then I trust God to provide for my health and safety.

Writing this entry reminds me of a time in college when I kept a Grateful Journal.  It's actually an idea I got when I was watching an episode of Oprah (brilliant!) and the idea is that at the end of each day a person should write down at least five things from the day that they're grateful for.  I'll admit that some days were easier than others, but as I kept at it, I found myself looking for things throughout the day.  It's a wonderful experience to spend the day looking for and finding little things to be grateful for, and it makes those not-so-good days a little less not-so-good.