24 Things to Be Grateful For on Thanksgiving 2024

November 15, 2024 7 min read

grateful family at dining table with custom metal decor - Thanksgiving 2024 gratitude list

Thanksgiving has come to mean different things to different people. For many, it's a tradition that commemorates important events in American history. At the same time, it's also a day when the family gets together, sits down for a special meal, and dedicate time in each other's company.

Here at GearDen, we also take this holiday as a chance to look back on the things -- big or small -- that helped us survive and thrive in the past year. Join us as we count our blessings and make a gratitude list. You'll likely find you're blessed with them, too! Here are 24 things we're saying thanks for this Thanksgiving 2024.

 

1. For flowers and plants

Potted plants, trees, and lush gardens are such underrated joys. They may seem like simple, everyday things, but they provide a calming natural beauty that's beneficial to our health -- and our homes. Plus, they improve air quality!

 

2. For friends -- the family we choose

We don't get to choose the family we're born into, but we can choose good friends to keep in our lives. If you've been fortunate to have a friend who understands you from the inside out, shares your humor and quirks, and has a way of comforting you in difficult times... that friend is a gem that deserves so much gratefulness.


Metal art pictured above: Personalized "Tree Of Life" Custom Metal Sign

 

3. For pockets of peace and quiet

The world is so noisy and rushed today, so thank goodness for those moments when you find tranquility. Maybe it's that early-morning hour when everyone else is still asleep and you get to have a nice cup of coffee. Maybe it's a few minutes in a church or library where people are contemplating. Whenever you find yourself in such a moment, immerse in how beautiful it is.

 

4. For togetherness

These days, distance is no longer an obstacle to togetherness. Even if your loved ones can't physically join you at the table, there's always video chats or group calls! Thanks to digital communication, you can still gab with mom while she's cooking a hundred miles away, or talk for hours with a friend in a different time zone.

Wall art pictured above: Personalized "Love And Shenanigans" Premium Canvas

 

5. For continued friendships

Sadly, today's political polarization and differences in beliefs have ruined many friendships. In that context, it's important to acknowledge our social relationships that have survived such differences. If you and your buddy can still be friends despite differing opinions, you know your connection is solid.

 

6. For meaningful decor

Sometimes, tchotchkes and artworks can have a profound personal meaning to us, whether as a souvenir from a good experience, as a gift from a special person, or as a symbol of ourselves. We especially love when wall art pieces celebrate the family that makes one's house a home.

Wall art pictured above: Personalized "Family Name" Home Premium Panoramic Canvas

 

7. For good sleep

A good night's sleep is a precious commodity! Power naps, too. Besides being thankful for these restful periods, may this holiday season also be a reminder for us to take rest seriously. It's absolutely vital to our health, so we should do what we can to ensure we get enough shut-eye daily.

 

8. For natural resources

We often take for granted the lifegiving things that nature provides us: water, clean air, healthy produce, and so many more. These may be so common to us that we hardly ever think about them, but if you stop for a moment to really consider it, it's a miracle that we get to live in a planet where nature provides.

 

9. For unexpectedly easy processes

Sometimes, we brace ourselves for a tedious or time-consuming process, only to find out later that, hey, that was actually easy! Whether it's an administrative dealing, a transaction with a business, or a work task, unexpectedly smooth procedures are a pleasant surprise.

 

10. For laughter

Isn't it amazing when you get to laugh heartily and without restraint? Be it from a silly joke over dinner or a meme on social media, don't be afraid to embrace these humorous moments. They're good for the body and soul!

Metal art pictured above: Personalized Family Tree Custom Metal Sign

 

11. For learning

They say life is about constant learning, and we agree. If you learned something new this year, you've improved from who you were last year! So whether it's a life skill like cooking or swimming, or a creative skill like painting or playing an instrument, pat yourself on the back for enriching your mind and spirit.

 

12. For the kindness of strangers

It never ceases to amaze when complete strangers help you out in tricky situations. This can happen in person, such as at the workplace or on public transportation, but increasingly, people online are also eager to lend a hand to strangers who need help. You can see this in advice forums and social media communities. We're especially thankful for YouTube tutorials that help us deal with everything, from malfunctioning vacuums to wilting houseplants!

 

13. For simple, wholesome foods

Have you ever thought about how simple yet lifesaving an egg is? Or how nourishing a piece of fruit is? They're like little packets of nutrition, and the best part is, they exist naturally! You don't have to worry about harmful chemicals or toxic ingredients. Thank a farmer when you can!

 

14. For laidback family meals

Most days are filled with hurried breakfasts and quick dinners, but there are those days when you and your family just leisurely enjoy your food and conversation. No one's checking the time or rushing to get up from the table. It's just a relaxed, comfortable togetherness. These precious meals are a gift. Take a moment to really appreciate them.

 

15. For getting far from when you were 18

While nothing can replace our childhoods and hometowns, it's also a sign of growth if you've explored farther and built a life for yourself. For some, moving to a different city means leaving an unpleasant situation and creating a better one. For others, it's simply a way to be true to oneself, living according to their values and pursuing their own goals. Whichever applies to you, we're glad you've had the courage to go far.

Wall art pictured above: Personalized "It's So Good To Be Home" Premium Canvas

 

16. For baby giggles

Whether or not you'd love a child of your own, there's no denying that a baby's laugh is one of the sweetest sounds in the world. Instant dopamine! It's also an inexplicable ego boost when you get to make a child laugh. It's like your simple antics have been approved by angels!

 

17. For sweet pets and animals

Dogs, cats, hamsters, birds, and other domesticated animals are often genuine companions. If you have a pet, you know how loving they can be and how they help you pull through your darkest hours. We love pets from the bottom of our hearts, and it's a privilege to be loved back by these pure souls.

Wall art pictured above: Personalized "All These Dogs" Premium Canvas

 

18. For warmth

Warm house, warm showers, warm food... These are incredible blessings that we often take for granted. At Thanksgiving 2024, let's say thanks for the coziness that envelops us especially in cold seasons, and let's consider how we can help others find this warmth, too.

 

19. For your go-to vendor

This Thanksgiving, we give special recognition to our trusted stores, butchers, baristas, plumbers, electricians, and other suppliers. Where would we be without their proven-and-tested services? A good way to thank them is by leaving glowing reviews on their website or social media page.

 

20. For easy recipes

Some of us have a go-to stew, stir-fry, or dessert to contribute to potlucks, while many of us have a quick 'n' easy comfort food that we can make with our eyes closed. Doesn't matter if it's a grilled cheese or a yummy icebox cake -- it's a lifesaver! If you learned this recipe from a friend or someone on the internet, why not drop them a thank-you note this Thanksgiving?

Wall art pictured above: "This Kitchen Is Seasoned With Love" Premium Canvas

 

21. For sparks of creativity

Don't you just love those moments when you just feel inspired and energized to do something creative? We like to think that these bursts of productivity are little nudges from the universe for us to do something and make our lives richer. Thank goodness for this creative drive!

 

22. For surviving the pandemic

After the many tragedies of the Covid-19 pandemic, it's an immense blessing that we are still here, alive and healthy and able to cherish life with our loved ones. This is a huge gift to be grateful for this year. May we also take this holiday as a chance to refocus our priorities towards good health and social relationships.

Wall art pictured above: Personalized "Family Names On Tree" Premium Canvas V2

 

23. For reliable health professionals

The last few years have also reminded us of the major role of health providers in our lives -- and how fortunate we are that they do their jobs well! If you have a trusted doctor, nurse, therapist, chiropractor, pharmacist, or even wellness coach, it's great to send them some sincere appreciation this Thanksgiving.

 

24. For reliable people

We encounter angels every day -- be they friends who are always ready to assist, colleagues who guide us through the day, or random workers who are consistently helpful and trustworthy. Say thanks to them in person, through a note, or even just through a prayer.

Wall art pictured above: Personalized Rustic Style Family Name Premium Panoramic Canvas

 

Writing this gratitude list has brought us a wonderful, uplifting mood, which is a testament to the power of thankfulness! What other things are you grateful for this year? Write a comment below!

From all of us here at GearDen, may you have a warm and blessed Thanksgiving 2024!

 

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