Submerged somewhere amid the craziness at Wholefoods and Trader Joe’s, where people seem to be fighting over the prized Turkeys, there’s a holiday tradition here in America that, as an Aussie, I’ve never really understood.

Of course, I’m talking about Thanksgiving, and while I plan on blowing in on the festivities and spending this special day with some special friends up in Connecticut, I also think there’s something enjoyable about recognizing your good fortunes, and being thankful for them.

I think there’s something we can all learn from this celebration, whether you’re an Aussie, German, Anglican, Jew, Mouse, or Cat, there’s always reason to give thanks for what you’ve got. You don’t need to feast on Turkey or buy a Hallmark card to do so either, Happies, just sitting down from time-to-time and being grateful for things requires no set dates, money, or too much time.

So, to get the ball rolling I’m going to share what I’m thankful for this year and maybe, just maybe, you’ll be inspired to look at your good fortunes, too.

1. I am thankful for my husband. He is freaking awesome and possibly the sweetest man in the world. Oh, and he makes me laugh everyday. Very important!

2. I am thankful for finally getting the balls, and the opportunity, to live my dreams and travel the world for 9 months this year. It’s been a long time coming.

3. I am thankful for learning something new every day. From the people around me, from the environment, from myself. Learning rocks!

4. I am thankful for my gorgeous family and friends, who I cannot wait to see in only a few weeks when I return to Australia. Big hugs all round. YAY!

5. I am thankful that I have a voice, and I’m not afraid to use it. I enjoy sharing my journey with all of you, Happies, and it’s kind of fun to know that sometimes my learning may help you learn, too.

Once you start, you could go on for hours and hours. There are a million things I’m thankful for now I think about it, and it’s a beautifully refreshing way to look at life. It’s always so easy to focus on the negative, what you don’t have, what you wish you had, what someone else has that you want, but then, when you look at what you DO have, you come to realise that life is pretty bloody awesome. And for that, I give thanks!

Stay happy, and feel free to share what you’re thankful for here, too. Go on, it’s fun!

Yaz xx