The top 10 things I'm grateful for

So often we tend to look at what's wrong, sad, bad or depressing in our lives. Instead, if we look at what's right, happy, good, uplifting, joyous, fulfilling, energizing and motivating we would make it a better world just because of our positive energy. (And did you notice I have many more 'good' words than 'bad'?)

So, I am using this final post of 2008 to share the things for which I am most grateful:

1. Mike is, of course, number 1. He is my best friend, husband of many years, business partner, cheerleader and encourager. He has a quiet sense of humor and makes me laugh.
2. Our sons Sean and Brian. I'm proud to be their mom and even prouder to see what great husbands and fathers they have become.
3. Amy and Jill, our daughters-in-law, who have enriched our family more than I could have asked for.
4. Olivia, Tyler, Payton and Josh. Grandkids! They help me see the world through young, eyes-wide-open, eyes and I love them each dearly.
5. My mom who just turned 80, my life mentor who taught me how important it is to consider others' feelings and needs. I don't see her often enough.
6. My sister, Kathy, who has always been there for me and still today is one of my biggest fans. We live 5 hours apart and I miss her.
7. Friends from years past. Each brought something valuable into my life and there would be a void if I hadn't known them.
8. Friends who are currently in my life, acquaintances who are just becoming friends and those whom I have yet to meet. Thanks for coming along for the ride!
9. My "electronic" friends who read my blogs and newsletters, who are on Twitter, Smaller Indiana, LinkedIn, Facebook, Plaxo and other social sites. Though we most likely won't meet f2f, I read their posts, enjoy our conversations, and appreciate the support and friendship they provide. I'm grateful that I've found this whole new world of friends that are just as valuable and meaningful as any other.
10. Fellow networkers who have become friends and business associates. They keep me motivated, provide support, share ideas and refer business to us.

You might be thinking - isn't she grateful for her business? Yes, I am very grateful for our home inventory business. We wouldn't be here today without those mentioned above. Likewise, the recent launch of the Hartman Inventory Systems turnkey package is something I'm extremely grateful for. I'm grateful that Mike and I have the ability and fortitude to have created it. It will provide the opportunity to help others own a company that will, in turn, help others!

But the top 10 have to be people. People who impact my life, who allow me to give of myself and offer the same in return. People are what life is about. For without these people, nothing else would matter.

What are you grateful for?