Gratitude 2017

Since last year’s Gratitude post, I have gotten married. I still can’t believe it. I am a WIFE! I love married life and yes, it does feel different. I am so happy to officially have a partner in this whole life thing we’re doing. We go together like spaghetti and meatballs, and I love what we are building together. Also, I’m thankful that we had pretty much the most perfect wedding ever.
My apartment sold for a nice little profit. It’s so nice to feel like I have some security and do my part to contribute to our family’s little nest egg.
Another year has gone by and my nephew Brooks has that much more personality. I absolutely love hanging out with him! Even though it hurts a little that I’ve been demoted and he only ever wants to FaceTime with Uncle Albie, I love that he recognizes Albert as a true part of the family. Reed is only 1.5 so he’s not chatting up a storm like Brooks yet, but I look forward to when he does.

I discovered the best mascara. It’s life-changing and not too expensive.
We have figured out the perfect order at a few of our favorite neighborhood restaurants. It’s nice to feel like a local. I look forward to establishing some roots at restaurants in our new neighborhood once we move.
I have gotten more physically fit in the last year. It’s nice to feel like I have a handle on my body. I also like how my body has been looking lately and am definitely less embarrassed when I get down to my skivvies.

Between Cuba, Italy, Punta Cana, and Chicago, we have been fortunate enough to do some amazing traveling this year. We have had so many weddings/wedding related events over the last 4 years that we hadn’t traveled. At all. I’m very thankful I have been able to re-embrace my love of exploring. Also, it looks like the weddings are starting to peter out in 2018 so I anticipate lots more travel in my future.
I’m so lucky to live right by a great coffee shop. Not only is it nice to support mom and pop shops, it’s good to have a direct link to high quality java. I also really enjoy hanging out in coffee shops. I feel so New York-y sipping on a latte, reading, maybe doing some writing.
I got a new iPhone this year and upgraded my storage. It’s so nice not having to freak out about having too little space for my photos…because I love photos.
Speaking of photography, I gave myself a little wedding present of a nice camera and have been loving the upgrade it gives to my photo albums. It’s also nice cultivating a new hobby and I’m thankful I was able to treat myself to something like that.

FYI: Feel free to check out 2016, 2015, and 2014 Gratitude posts as well.