Ten writers for children. All with something to say.

11/23/11

Giving thanks



One of my goals the past years has been to give thanks for the many opportunities that come my way. On a school visit to Gilman, Wisconsin in 1997, I was presented a beautiful Gratitude Journal by Heather Palmer, the art teacher. Heather told me that the journal was one in which I should write down things I was grateful for. I started doing this and came to value the practice. It's helped me cope with the ups and downs of publishing and reminds me how fortunate I am to get to do what I love when so many people struggle with so little. On this Thanksgiving, I give thanks for all of you and send all best wishes for a wonderful holiday.

5 comments:

Edie Hemingway said...

I am thankful for this wonderful group of potatoes/writers/illustrators, who are so supportive and informative through the ups and downs of the publishing business. And I'd love a piece of that pecan pie, John!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Lauren said...

John, thank you for this post- I have been to several gatherings in the past few years where time is taken to make lists of things we are grateful for. I too value this practice and try to do it weekly- looking back to give thanks before looking ahead to the next week. It is very informative somehow.
Like you and Edie, I am very thankful for this group of potatoes and all that we share with each other and others who follow this blog.
And that pie is too beautiful to eat!
Happy Thanksgiving to all!

David LaRochelle said...

I have a box on my dresser where I drop all of my spare change. Years ago I started the habit of saying one thing I am thankful for each time I drop a coin into the box. Like your gratitude journal, John, it reminds me of all the good things in my life, and sometimes snaps me out of a bad mood when I'm fretting over something trivial.

At the Thanksgiving table yesterday we each mentioned three things for which we are thankful. My three were:
* my work, which I enjoy and is rewarding
* my good health
* and my many friends, which includes all of my potato bloggers

Happy Leftovers! Yum!

Mark said...

John, thanks for the reminder to remember things we value in our lives, and to be thankful for all we have. Like others, I sometimes forget my blessings!

I like your idea, too, David: having a routine to remind ourselves of what we are thankful for.

And of course I would be remiss if I did not also add my own thanks for my fellow One Potato...Ten members and the supportive community they've allowed me to share in.

Stephanie said...

Yes, thanks for reminding us all to be thankful. I too am so thankful for the support and inspiration I get from all of you:)