Giving Thanksashely tidsdale

Each November, as the beauty of giving thanks sweeps the nation, bringing out the innate goodness in each of us, I'm reminded of how pure and important the power of gratitude is. The popular saying "stop and smell the roses," is more important than ever in this digital day and age where we are incessantly glued to our phones and computer screens. Every month, my husband and I make a list of the things we are grateful for. From something as small as a favor someone did for us that week or a kind comment someone made. Once we've written down ten things, we share them with each other out loud. It's a moment that is greatly needed among the chaos of life and one I always look forward to. In honor of Thanksgiving, I thought I would share 10 things with you that I am thankful for...

1. My Family...

For all the endless laughter and amazing adventures. From impromptu living room concerts, to wrestling matches, to plotting out ways to explore the world. As hard as it always is for me to leave them and return to California, the sadness is just a reminder of how much I love them.

2. Self checkout...

I mean honestly, who isn't thankful for this? Without this extremely useful technological upgrade, I would be forced to wait in incredibly long lines, re-reading the same tabloid covers until finally caving in and flip to the cover story. Plus, who doesn't love the opportunity to play "cashier" which totally brings back a slew of childhood memories.

3. My health...

A close family friend of ours has a precious 2 year old son who has stage 4 neuroblastoma. It has been an up hill battle for quite some time, but after a wonderful miracle, he is finally doing much better. Situations like this make me forever grateful to be healthy and prove the power of prayer. (You can follow his journey here)

4. Michael Kors tote bags...

Without this fabulous hand candy being offered in such an uh-mazing array of colors and sizes I would have nothing to gawk at while at the mall and dream about at night. (This is the bag currently overtaking my dreams)

5. My DVR...

Oh, how I'd be lost without it. Does anyone watch original airings anymore? Currently filling my DVR is my number one guilty pleasure, The Wendy Williams Show (How you doin'), Revenge, Pretty Little Liars, anything on Bravo, and more TLC shows than I'll ever publicly admit to.

6. My Friends...

From our gang in LA to all of our high school friends back in Florida. Justin and I usually throw a big party every year so that we can all catch up. This year I'm planning an engagement party for one of my friends to take place over the Christmas holiday and can't wait to share my inspiration and decorations with you all soon!

7. Crystal Light Strawberry Energy!

While most of you are standing in line at Starbucks, I'm shaking my water bottle. I literally can't go a day without my strawberry energy. It's an addiction!

8. Animals...

While I have room in my heart for all animals and room in my home for at least three more, (if only I could convince Justin) I have to dedicate this bundle of gratitude to my little fur baby, Maddox, who I can't live a day without.

9. My husband...

Who has shown me more support and love than I ever thought was possible. He has never questioned my dreams, instead he's only asked how he can help. He is the love of my life, my best friend and I'm so thankful that we found each other so young and have had the opportunity to grow together through the years.

10. You! My loyal followers...

I can not thank each of you enough for your support and kindness. You drive me and inspire me everyday. I am so thankful for each and everyone of you and hope you all have a fabulous Thanksgiving.