20 Things We’re Thankful for in 2020
It’s no secret that this year has been heavy on many. And as we navigate our way through a holiday season that looks a bit different, we felt it was the perfect time to reflect on the blessings that are still very present in the midst of uncertainty.
This week, Ryan and Marc came together to jot down 20 things they’re thankful for in 2020. Here is what they came up with...
Ryan’s Gratitude List
I am thankful for an amazing family who support me, including my wife Meghan, 7-year-old daughter Raegan, and 5-month-old daughter Ruby… and of course our dog Marley.
I’m thankful to have parents who helped cement a deep faith in God into my life and continue to be role models for not only myself, but their grandchildren as well.
I’m thankful to live in a country where my every freedom has been paid for by so many brave men and women before us whose sacrifice can never be repaid.
I’m thankful to be a part of this great community who not only supports each other, but also puts their trust in us to protect what is important in their lives.
I’m thankful to have a great business partner as well as 3 great knowledgeable employees (Sandy, Colleen, and Diana) who hold everything together and keep our company running smoothly!
I’m thankful that through a very difficult year that has caused many life changes, physical and financial burdens and stresses on so many people that we are helping one another overcome and hopefully come back stronger and more united.
I’m thankful for all the 9 seasons we experience here in northern Michigan…Pre-Winter, Pretend Fall, Fall-Winter, Fall, Blizzard Season, Winter, Spring-Winter, Spring and even Summer. With our amazing waterways (as well as endless open spaces) it is truly paradise for anyone who enjoys the outdoors...even if it is a little cold sometimes. ;)
I’m thankful for that path in the woods behind my house where I can walk with my daughter, unwind, and put things into perspective. It’s a place we can go to mentally unplug and contemplate all the blessings we have. It’s the best way to soothe the soul.
I’m thankful for this upcoming holiday season and being able to lean into the traditions that make it feel a bit more normal: decorating the Christmas tree, cooking thanksgiving turkey, and finding ways to spend time safely with family.
I’m thankful for a house that is filled with laughter, whining, padder of footsteps, and dinner on the stove (microwave beeps when I’m cooking). Not long ago it was a quiet place that didn’t know these joys existed.
Marc’s Gratitude List
I’m thankful for my parents Jim and Lorna that taught me so many things that I don’t even realize, but some that come to mind are: the way that I was raised, faith in God, importance of family, accountability, and pride in everything you do. I’m thankful for my parent in-laws Steve and Marylin who made my life complete (my wife, Danielle).
I’m thankful for my own little family, my amazing wife Danielle, who keeps our crew of 4 daughters (Mckenna, Kenndal, Lachlynn, and Ellianna) on the straight and narrow. Not only does she have to put up with my crazy schedule of running a handful of businesses, she too has her own businesses that she runs along with her full-time job AND our 4 virtual classrooms!
I’m thankful for the “tiny humans” (how we refer to our kiddos) that provide us with so many different experiences that we never dreamed we would have. They have a way of making every day better, despite whatever else is going on. Being able to provide for them and watch them flourish the same way that my parents did for me is a gift.
I’m thankful for freedoms that we have thanks to so many men and women (and their families) who have sacrificed so much. There just isn’t a big enough word to explain the gratefulness.
I’m thankful for challenges. Heaven only knows that we have had our fair share of these this past year. But I think we can all take away some great lessons and opportunities for growth from these challenges. I’m sure many of us have probably become better, more resilient people because of it.
I’m thankful for my career. I have been truly blessed to have the opportunity to assist many individuals in making decisions that will help them throughout life. I’ve also had a chance to start reconnecting with the community that I have been a part of all of my life, and working my way towards a position that allows me to contribute to all of those that have helped me get to where I am today.
I’m thankful for clients. I believe that we have an amazing client base that cares about their family and friends, and have peace of mind know that they have real life people to turn to when something goes wrong. Our staff (Sandy, Colleen, and Diana) Ryan and Myself, try to be as available and helpful as we can to ensure our clients know that they can count on us when in need.
I’m thankful for my staff/partner. I’m very fortunate to be able to work with a group of people who always look out for each other and look out for the best interest of our client family as well.
I’m thankful for each day the good Lord gives us to go out, be the best we can be, and do the best we can for ourselves and everyone we come in contact with.
And finally, I’m thankful for our almighty God, who is ultimately the giver of everything we have to be thankful for.
Life will always offer new twists, turns, and challenges, but intentionally seeking out the good at every stage is incredibly powerful. We hope this post offered you encouragement and reminded you of the many things you have to be thankful for this season as well.
And if you’re feeling up to it, we’d love to hear some of the things you’re thankful for in the comments!
Have a wonderful holiday!
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