“Piglet noticed that even though he had a Very Small Heart, it could hold a rather large amount of Gratitude.” –A.A. Milne

As we enter the fall season, I can't help but to think of the subject of gratitude. I remind myself to feel thankful, even when life gets rough and our moments are busy. Sometimes it's easy; sometimes I forget. I want to encourage you to stop for a moment and quickly list ten things you are grateful for. I truly believe an attitude of gratitude contributes to an overall sense of happiness.

Here are ten things I feel grateful for.

My baby girl just turned 1. I am so grateful for her health, her boundless energy, and for the fact that she sleeps through the night almost every night. Mama needs her sleep!

My husband. I miss him when he's at work for 24-hour shifts. All of the jokes and special moments we share invigorate me. I think of him and let out a little sigh of contentment.

Overcoming difficulty. I am grateful that my husband and I know how to persevere through difficulty. Marriage is not always unicorns and butterflies. I know we will continue to work through hard times together as life ebbs and flows.

Our parents. In their individual ways they provide support and love for me, Allester and Ellie. I can't thank them enough.

Our extended families. Ellie is so lucky to have so many family members who love her and dote on her. Thank God for our families.

Our home. We just purchased a new home and I am so thankful that together we made this dream come true. I hope we will fill it with happy memories and love for many years to come.

Grad school. I am attending the University of Miami as a grad student. It feels surreal to get to call myself a 'Cane and I am proud of myself for plowing through this program while balancing life as a full-time teacher, mom and wife.

Our doggies. I am extra grateful for Cane and Sunny on the nights I'm home alone when Allester is at work. Just looking into Cane's honey-colored eyes and scratching Sunny's freckled chunky belly fills me with happiness.

Work. This is my fourth year teaching at my school and my 12th year in the classroom. How lucky am I to work somewhere I genuinely enjoy being. I am proud to call myself a teacher and know for a fact that my work matters.

Cupcakes. I mean, have you ever had a triple chocolate cupcake from Buttercream Cupcakes?

Think of all your blessings and count them one by one. I can assure you, you'll finish your list and feel love oozing through you.