41 Candles

I just celebrated my 41st birthday. I’m so glad I was born. Here are 41 things I am thankful for in my life:

1. The opportunity to be the Mom of the greatest little boy I could ever imagine.
2. My husband and soul mate who continues to blow my mind.
3. My very loving and supportive extended family who have freely offered their unconditional love.
4. The foundation of a happy childhood with super hero parents, and the memories of that time that never leave me.
5. My dear friends who never miss a beat, no matter how long it has been since we caught up.
6. My teachers and mentors who pointed me on the path to my best work.
7. Our happy shaggy labradoodle, Holly.
8. Our sly little lady-like cat, Olivia.
9. A house that feels like a home.
10. A backyard full of flowers, vegetables, herbs, shrubs, and trees that inspire me daily.
11. A safe neighborhood full of friendly people where my kid can ride his bike and play outside with other children.
12. Access to clean water and plenty to eat.
13. Access to fresh, local, natural and organic food.
14. My education. 
15. Novels, Cookbooks, Art Books, and The New Yorker.
16. My studio space with a view of the woods.
17. My Mac with the gigantic screen, and my Wacom drawing tablet.
18. The opportunity to pursue my creative ideas.
19. My Vitamix and the discovery of the Green Smoothie.
20. Learning to keep my body healthy and strong.
21. The internet, where I can find an answer to any question, at any time.
22. My iPhone, where I can find an answer to any question, at any time, no matter where I might be.
23. A steady supply of sketchbooks and Uni-ball Vision ink pens.
24. The success of my family’s restaurant business and all those who have contributed to it, including our amazing partners who have remained our best friends.
25. Yoga and long walks.
26. The ability to work from home part-time for my day-job, so there is still time for my art and my family.
27. The opportunity to work for a business with a respectful, fun, and supportive company culture, and the highest quality standards.
28. Awesome co-workers.
29. All the people in the art and design world who are generous with their knowledge and are willing to share their journeys and experience in the industry.
30. All the people in the blog-o-sphere who are sharing their personal stories.
31. My art-escapes to Whidbey Island and the fairy godmother who invited me there.
32. When I can hear the Universe whispering “Yes, you can.”
33. When inspiration strikes and I have the courage to act on it.
34. When inspiration does not come and I have the courage to keep working anyway.
35. Discovering the power of taking the next small step.
36. Learning to trust myself and knowing I am capable of more than I once believed.
37. Music.
38. Colors.
39. Rain, Sun, Clouds, Wind, Landscapes, Oceans and all the fascinating creatures of the natural world.  
40. Lemon, Olive Oil, Herbs, Garlic, Sea Salt, and seasonal produce. And chocolate.
41. All those who have touched my life, in ways big or small, bringing joy, wonder, and new discoveries about the world that we share.

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