I try to maintain an attitude of gratitude. I try to be aware of the many blessings in my life. Some days, it is easier than others to maintain this awareness. When my children were in the newborn period, it was definitely a challenge. But Thanksgiving is a perfect time to reflect, take pause, and really think about what we have to be thankful for.

I am so thankful for my amazing daughters, my loving and supportive husband, and my community. I am so grateful for the laughter, the songs, and the hugs that are constant in my life.

And I am thankful for… dirty diapers.

Yes, I am thankful for dirty diapers. I am so thankful for dirty diapers. For a long time, my daughter was constipated, and she suffered such pain and agony when she pooped. When I see the success of a dirty diaper and I know her body is working smoothly, I am thankful. More importantly, I am thankful I am able to afford diapers when so many must go without. Yes, they are a pain and they are expensive, and I feel privileged.

I am thankful for a sink full of dirty dishes.

Those dirty dishes came from another family meal we got to have together. And as chaotic as the prep work and clean up may be, family meals are a priority in my house and something we all enjoy. We use this time to reflect on our days, build our family identity, and develop positive eating habits. No matter what is going on in our day, the family meal — and the dishes it creates — is like the beacon that brings us together. And I’m thankful to have the life that allows me the time and resources to provide this.

I am thankful for my messy house.

My house is not a museum. My house has a “lived-in” look. And that’s because, well, it’s lived in! My kids play in my house. We have books all over the place. I have clothes that are yet to be put away on the couches. And those couch cushions have seen better days after being used as obstacle course props. I could use more of my free time to clean up. But I don’t want to. I want to be with them, playing and reading. And I know that’s so much more important. And I’m thankful I know that.

This Thanksgiving, what are you thankful for?


Lindsay Goldberg
Lindsay Goldberg is a working mom who then comes home and works there, too. She loves finding quick, healthy recipes to make for her family and lives for her Sunday morning escape to the gym. She has given up on trying to find balance, and is, instead focused on surviving and being Good Enough. Likes- books, family dance parties, morning snuggles, and drinking coffee when it's still hot. Dislikes- recipes with more than 10 ingredients or 10 steps, winter, and deadlines