Too often we get caught up in life and forget to appreciate the every day things that bring us joy. Some, as part of their morning ritual when they wake, think of 3 things that they are grateful for. Others journal, others meditate. For me, writing a dedicated post is a great way to stop, reflect and appreciate what has brought some sunshine to my life and it is usually the little things that can brighten my day. All of the little things in one place can add up to quite a few!
It’s the little things….#3
Grateful to have nature on my doorstep
A midweek early morning run took me past the lake near my home. Such a glorious morning, a little chilly but a clear blue sky. I stopped for a moment to appreciate the view and loved the photos I took, especially the one where the trees are reflected in the lake.



Grateful to spend some quality time with my husband
We’ve been pretty busy over the last few weeks, so having quality time together has been scarce. We enjoyed a delicious lunch date and then as part of Mike’s birthday gift we enjoyed dinner and saw one of his favorites, Roger Waters in Concert. It was at New Farm Cinema on the big screen and for one night only. What a blast and I was so happy Mike enjoyed it immensely



Grateful for ‘no rush’ mornings
I’m usually up and away doing things for 3 or 4 mornings a week, so it was lovely to have a morning where I had no commitments and could enjoy starting my day with a coffee and a book – yes a book before breakfast!

Grateful that our home renovations are slowly coming together and that my husband is quite the handyman
We’ve been renovating our home and our sin-in-law built a patio cover for us. Mike then added some shade blinds and although not quite finished we are loving our back entertaining area and garden. I will enjoy a cuppa in the morning and the blinds will be great during summer as they block out the heat and the rays but you can still see through them.





Grateful that my husband and other Vietnam veterans have finally been acknowledged by the Government

Grateful for the music of Tina Turner
It was sad to hear of the passing of Tina Turner who brought joy and excitement to her music and songs. She was a strong woman who managed to leave her abusive relationship with Ike and forge a new career with nothing but her talent.
Apparently, Australians are the only ones who do the Nutbush City Limits dance – who knew???? No party would be a party without the Nutbush. Time to get up and dance now!
What are the little things that you are grateful for this week or that have brought sunshine to your day?

Joining Denyse Whelan for her Wednesday Words & Pics link up each week….
18 Comments
What a lovely post Sue, so many things to be thankful for! Your back patio looks fabulous, well done.
Thanks, Deb the patio is coming along nicely and now to work on the garden! x
I adore this series. It really does make you think of the little things. For me last week it was coming home.
Hi Jo, yes, I’m enjoying writing the series and hope I can keep it out. It really keeps me focused on the good things each day. I bet you were glad to come home. xx
Hi Sue – I really like this style of taking stock and it’s great seeing your new house coming along. Is the kitchen finished now? I’d love to see some photos – ours is well in progress.
Hi Leanne, I’m hoping to do it weekly but at the same time not putting pressure on myself. In saying that even one little thing is worth a mention. Our kitchen is almost done. We only replaced some of the backsplash and Mike will be painting some areas but he’s been working on the patio which is nearly finished. It’s lovely to freshen things up isn’t it? x
I got paid for the first time since Feb this year, and today is my Friday, so I’m going to grab my fave Thai takeaway as a little celebration 🙂
Oh I’m glad you were paid that’s a long time since February. A great end to your week though with a thai takeway to celebrate. x
You’ve got a lot to feel grateful for Sue, and your house is looking fabulous. Toni x
Thank you Toni, I’m very happy with how our renovations are coming along x
That is ridiculous on the Vietnam war recognition – almost 50 years later – and half of them were conscripted so 100% there because of the government. How on earth did it take 50 years???
Anyway, on more cheery stuff – Tina and the nutbush. I only learnt about 3 years ago that it was only a thing in Australia. How is that possible? That’s so weird….but it is a lesson that your normal is only normal to you (or in this case,the country). #WWandP
It is ridiculous, Lydia. I was in first year high school during the Vietnam War and only knew a neighbour’s son who was called up. Mike was called up and did his duty but it was only when he was 65 that he was diagnosed with PTSD. He had been struggling since coming home in 1972 until about 10 years ago. He has a fabulous psychologist who has done wonders. x
So much to be grateful for, Sue. Thank you for sharing yours with us. Today, I am grateful for a safe drive home and an interesting podcast to listen to as we drove. I am also grateful for my husband and his willingness to drive while I enjoy the scenery.
Hi Christie, I’m always reminded of your Thank you Notes posts when I write my weekly It’s the little things… We do have much to be grateful for and it is just a matter of acknowledging it and focusing on the good in our life. x
I am so glad I got to read this post Sue! The little things ARE the big things and Mike’s recognition from that awful war in Vietnam is good to see but I am aware of the huge life toll it’s taken. That’s awesome seeing your new place come to life for you both and with family skills! Thank you for linking up each week with WW&Pics but knowing you are off for a while exploring north of Australia I shall see you when your blogging resumes…highest of priorities now, enjoying your longed for travel! Denyse
I’m glad you notified me Denyse and perservered. Mike is much better these days with the help of a weekly psychologist session. It was a terrible time for everyone but especially for the lads who were called up to serve. Mike was there for 12 months and was one of the last to leave. x
I love all your things that you are grateful for this month. Congratulations to your husband in his recognition of his services to his country and also Happy Birthday. You are very lucky having so many handy-men in your family – your patio and cover looks amazing.
Thank you Janine, I’m loving my new series and hope I can keep it up weekly as a reminder of all the good in my life. xx