The other week, I was thinking about how newlyweds post things on Facebook like, “OMG you guys, I’m married!” So I posted that exact thing on my Facebook wall, even though Mr. Donovan and I have been married for many years.

It cracked people up. But seriously, this is a great exercise to help you appreciate the everyday things in your life. Remember how excited you were at first.

Yay, I got the job!

I’m an aunt (or uncle)!

Wow! I’m a dad (or mom)!

Hooray, I got the apartment!

We just closed on the house!

Now, some of these things may bring up bittersweet or painful feelings. But other things will make you realize all over again just how lucky you are… even if your marriage has challenges, or your kid has been driving you up the wall lately. You knew there would be good times and bad times, but isn’t it amazing to have this as part of your life?

One of my favorite books when I was a kid was about a boy who wrapped up toys and belongings he already owned like birthday presents, so he could unwrap and appreciate them all over again. This is kind of the same idea.

The other thing you can do, of course, is imagine that you’re enjoying something after the last time. Let me explain.

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Imagine you’re 115 years old and in a nice assisted living home. Life is good, but like anybody, you occasionally get nostalgic for earlier times.

Now an angel or fairy or some kind of magical spell grants you the chance to, just for one day, go back and live in the home that you’re living now. Even if it’s humble, 115-year-old you would be delighted to be there one more time.

You regain mobility, strength, and energy as you get to live in the body you have right now. If you’re somebody who often thinks, “Oh, I’m getting old,” well, 115-year-old you will have a much different perspective.

You get to spend time again with your long-lost pet. It’s amazing.

You get to spend time again with a child who is all grown up now… or talk to somebody who you outlived, one last time.

If you’re like me and you get caught up in your plans, these are two ways to really be grateful for your life right now. And if you’re one of those people who often waxes nostalgic over past times, this helps you remember that someday, you’re going to look back at these days with fondness and nostalgia, too.

I hope that whether everything’s going well for you right now, or whether you’re facing some difficulties, this reminds you of a few good things in your life. Thank you so much for reading, and have a great week!