{gratitude} lately

comparing: to estimate, measure, or note the similarities or differences between; the act of doing which can (and will) steal your contentment

-Webster's (commentary by me)

comparison is a funny thing. sometimes it can be helpful, like in comparing the ingredients needed to make chocolate chip cookies with what you have on hand, or in comparing your packing list to what is actually in your suitcase. however, there are many times when comparison just steals contentment, like in comparing your life to someone else's, your marriage to someone else's, your dreams to someone else's, your summer to their summer, your body to theirs **see where I'm going with this?**

when I begin to compare myself to others, in any way, I am left with emptiness, guilt, jealousy, and discontentment... all of which make me forget that I am not them, and they are not me. I was created for a specific purpose (psalm 139), with a specific design. my story will not **and does not** look like the others, and that is the beauty of each and every person. so instead of comparing, today I am choosing to be thankful. and because I like **ok, love** list-making, here is what I'm thankful for {lately}

1. time for creative refueling

2. daily reminders that I am not in control

3. blank canvases & empty walls begging to be filled & designed

4. days full of card games

5. learning new things

6. an adventure partner with zero inhibitions

here's to daily reminders of truth, hawaiian shirts, and the beauty of gratitude. happy monday, loves!