What I'm Thankful For in 2023

“3 things to be grateful for:

the person you are becoming

how far you have come

what you already have”

— Dhiman

This time of year, my mind always takes me on a reflective journey through the past year, so to highlight all the things I’m grateful for. There’s something about the holidays that inspires this sort of deep reflection, wouldn’t you agree? It goes without saying, but life is fragile and tomorrow is never promised. I feel truly blessed for each new day I’m fortunate to see, live, and experience, and I do my best to never take a single moment for granted. No doubt, the last handful of years have taught me that big or small, there are so many reasons to recognize and celebrate gratitude. So, in the spirit of gratitude, here are 5 of the biggest things I’m feeling extra thankful for in 2023.

I’m thankful for my husband, our wedding, and our sweet new chapter of marriage.

Back in August, after 12.5 years together, Alex and I officially entered our newest chapter as husband and wife. I owe an endless gratitude to Alex for being my rock, my best friend, and my biggest supporter. I honestly couldn’t imagine a better partner. From days spent on the couch to days spent exploring new and favorite places, Alex and I always have fun together. As we end the year in newlywed bliss, I’m grateful for the foundation we’ve built, a foundation I know will carry us forward through whatever life has in store for us. Thank you Alex for making our home a happy home. The boys and I feel so loved by you.

I’m thankful for my family and friends.

Living halfway across the country from family has its own set of challenges, but in my family, we always make it work. To my parents, thank you for helping pave the pathway to success. Your love, support, and guidance never goes without appreciation to me. To my sisters, my best friends, thank you for always being there when I need you. Every hour of every day spent FaceTiming with you is well worth it in my books. And to the newest addition to the Brandlfam, my sweet niece Berkley, it’s been so much fun watching you grow into your own personality. I look forward to my next opportunity to love up on you!

To my friends: thank you for being an extension of family to me. Over the years, I’ve learned the best friends are the ones who feel like family. To those I’ve let into my inner circle, I’m so grateful for each one of you. To my NC friend group, thank you for being my home away from home. A lot of us are transplants in the area and I’m so happy we’ve crossed paths over the years. I’m also grateful for all our friends, near and far, who showed up for us on our wedding day. I loved seeing, catching up, and dancing the night away with you. My cup is full!

I’m thankful for opportunity, challenge, and professional growth.

Earlier this year, my department at work underwent some pretty big organizational changes which opened the door for me to take on a larger role in North America leadership. It’s been a challenging work year for sure, but as I sit here reflecting, I’m pretty damn proud of myself for the way I’ve navigated and managed through all the changes. I know the skills I’m developing now will aid me throughout my professional journey, so I’m grateful for all the opportunity I’ve been given. I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up, but I’m thankful for the job and team I have now.

I’m thankful for the fictional world of books.

I’m so grateful that the pandemic pushed me to spend more time reading books. Over the last few years, reading has easily become one of my favorite hobbies and I love that each book offers something so different. When I need an escape from reality, I read books. When I need to decompress from stressful situations, I read books. When I need some self care or a pick-me-up, I read books. And though it’s been a slower reading year with wedding planning taking so much of my time, I’m content with my book a week trend. I’ve read so many good books this year!

I’m thankful for health, happiness, and a life I love living.

Through all the ups and downs and all the ebbs and flows, I’m grateful to get to live this crazy, beautiful life. At 31, I’m happy, healthy, and full of positive energy. I feel so fulfilled getting to live a life I love living. I wouldn’t change my adventurous spirit for anything — it’s led me to some of my favorite places alongside some of my favorite people.

What are you grateful for this year?

Enjoy!

JBW