Times are tough these days. The economy may be on the mend (possibly) but unemployment keeps going up! It's definitely hard to keep my chin up with so much to worry about every day from how to pay for tuition to how I'll make rent this next month. The thing is, being a pessimist seems to be one big self-defeating cycle that isn't helping do anything! So I've decided to start keeping a gratitude journal that'll help me look on the bright side of things.

     My goal is to write 5-10 items every day that I'm grateful for. Today's will be fairly general and basic but hopefully it will help. Anyone want to join me? It'll be great for boosting one's optimism. Anyway, here goes:

1. First of all, I'm grateful to have all the basics taken care of: a roof over my head, food to eat, and clothes to wear.

2. I'm happy to have a job! This is a big deal nowadays.

3. I'm grateful for my wonderful boyfriend - you're my biggest supporter and the best listener I know.

4. I'm happy that I'm going back to school. I put it off for a long time but now I finally feel like I'm working       towards my long-term goals.

5. I'm grateful for the support and love of my family. You guys are the greatest!

6. A small thing that makes a big difference: I'm happy the sun is shining outside. What a mood-booster!

That's all for now, but I will definitely be adding to this later. Everyone, keep your chins up and remember to look on the bright side!