Thankful Thursday!

"I don't think I'll ever run out of things to be grateful for." - Unknown

Turns out that this is my last full week in Liverpool for a couple of months. It's been an exciting one.

Of course, I have reasons to be grateful. What about you?

Time Donators - You may be wondering what a "time donator" is... don't worry I'll tell you. A time donator is exactly what it sounds like - a person who generously gives their time
to another without ever expecting anything in return. Due to my dissertation I have been begging for time from various Beatle people over the last three weeks. Although I have made some connections here in Liverpool, I have not yet reached celebrity status so it's a bit difficult to get some attention. (Fear not, I'll work on that in the fall.) However, this obstacle has made me very aware of how grateful I should be for those who have been so charitable with their time. I've spent many hours with John Lennon's sister, Julia, who has been so kind to me. Today, I spent my afternoon with Colin, the caretaker of Mendips (John's childhood home) while he was doing tours of the home for the National Trust. Not to forget all of the interviews I have lined up in the coming months for this dissertation. However, my dissertation would not be possible without the generosity of others.

This Great Opportunity - I know I have said this a million times before but I cannot ignore the overwhelming feeling of gratitude that drowns me when I take a second and realize what I am doing and where I am. This is not something that many people get to do and I'm aware of people who have applied to this program and weren't accepted. I can't imagine how different my life would be if I didn't get accepted to this program. I think even that when I'm 92 I will still be amazed that I did this. It isn't easy to pick up and move to the other side of the world to do something that everyone around you thinks is crazy. I just can't get over how lucky I am. Have to thank the universe for this for the rest of my days.

Garbage Bags - Go ahead, laugh. But there is no easier way to move house than throwing everything in garbage bags and being done with it. I have six bags full of stuff to take tomorrow. I'm thrilled that garbage bags have made it so easy.

Summer Songs - There is just something about sunny songs that can put a smile on my face no matter what. These songs are even better when the days are so beautiful that you cannot resist singing! I think that a summer song completes an almost summer day. I'm happy they're around.

Angry Birds - a great time killer. It's excellent when you're stuck waiting for taxis and when Dann is rambling about zombies attacking the city.

What are you grateful for?