Yesterday, my husband and I celebrated our 19th wedding anniversary. We celebrated very simply. We enjoyed a late breakfast, made a couple of stops and spent the evening at home. There was no fancy dinner, no party, and extravagant travel plans. It was just us, enjoying each other’s company and laughing along the way.

I’m also celebrating seven years of consistent blogging on this site. That’s no small feat. Some days were more challenging than others. I have written when I was ill and exhausted. I have written when I didn’t feel up to the challenge. I’ve written when I was angry, or hurt. But I persevered in both marriage and in writing.

I am celebrating my writing and wedding anniversaries in pretty much the same way: by keeping at it, by trying to get better at it, by honoring my commitments. I remember where and how we started. I am grateful for both journeys.

Today, I am thankful for the people around me who encourage me to do and to be better. I am grateful for the body of work we have created, and I’m grateful for the chance to do it again today.

I pray you find something to celebrate today, no matter how small, and then I challenge you to find someone who will celebrate with you.