I asked a client of mine what little things make her happy. This is how I typically approach a gratitude practice - finding the little wins in each day. So we talked about things that are calming and bring a small spark of joy. The answer? Raindrops.

This completely resonated with me, and I’m betting that we are not alone in this sensory experience. I absolutely love the smell in the air and the shudder of leaves as they turn upside down in anticipation of a summer rain. And these thirsty trees patiently await the pitter patter of each drop, soaking it in, sustaining life in every one.

2020 has been a trying time for so many of us. Regardless of where you are in this storm of a pandemic life we are living, I encourage you to take the time to find the raindrops this year has brought you. There is alot to bring us to a very somber center - global pandemic, murder hornets, raging fires, racial injustices, hurricane, tornadoes, flooding, earthquakes, global warming, fake news, TP shortages, isolation, virtual work and education, and general panic.

What would it be like if we started to reflect on the raindrops in our year? This year, I am more appreciative than ever of my health, the extra moments I have with my 3 college boys, working from home, sleeping in, magnificent sunrises, curbside everything, reconnecting, laughter, and the value of a good haircut. I have had more meaningful conversations and dug deep inside to find me own energy to combat the loss of my pre-pandemic everyday life. I cherish the hugs from my 20 year old even more, because he is one of the few that I can hug freely. I have found a new hobby and zen-like rhythm in sewing masks for others. On those 12 hours days on zoom, I am reminding myself how thankful I am that the internet has afforded me the opportunity to work with humans around the globe.

This month, I am giving myself permission to pull back on so many of the pre-pandemic expectations that still hang over my head. I am taking this month to regroup and relax, and to find my raindrops once again.