What fills your bucket?

 For many people, the holidays can prove to me tougher than other days of the year.  Some are reminded of relatives who may have left the earth too early or of regrets that were unable to be repaired.  For me, Christmas is a time to reflect on my love for others and to fill up on the spiritual goodness I can.  One of my favorite songs to hear during this beautiful season is Amy Grant's Grown Up Christmas List.  It is one of those songs that makes me think about possibilities.  

One of my other bucket fillers during this time include sleeping a bit later than normal.  Dave and I have 3 Labrador Retrievers and every night is a 3-dog-night for us.  The girls love to snuggle, particularly when it is cooler outside.  I don't mind.  I know, I know....dog hair--yuck!  But there is something about their desire to be near me and my mutual desire to be near them that just seems like a win-win.  There might not be much cuter than one or two of them looking at me with a face that says "Do we have to get out of bed?".

Now, add to all that the best of the best:  Dave just retired after 30-plus years of work.  I am so excited for him, and for us.  Now, he will be able to come with me on some of my business trips.  Now he can relax and golf a bunch more than he has previously been able.  Now, we can enjoy even more of each other's company.  

As grateful as I am for Dave being able to retire, I have absolutely no desire to quit working yet.  I can't think of another bucket-filler that gets me going as much as my work does.  Sharing new learning about effective teaching and effective leadership with others around the world is so gratifying, why would I ever quit?  

And, while I was sitting on the couch grading papers this morning, Dave went into the kitchen and made turkey soup.  As the smell of turkey and vegetables began wafting towards me in the living room, I thought, "Now this really is a bucket-filler.  Turkey soup will literally fill my bucket."  And, a few hours later, I was not disappointed.  It was delicious!

I have so many people who are bucket-fillers for me, and we were able to see them in action this year when I was diagnosed with breast cancer.  A huge thanks goes out to all of you who wrote texts, emails, cards, and letters, who sent special treats (many in pink) to help lift my spirits, and who came in person to sit with me and let me be dopey from medicine and to laugh with me and hug me.  I am forever grateful to each and every one of you.  

Now, what about you?  What and who are your bucket-fillers?  Please share a comment or two with me.  I love hearing good news from readers.

In the meantime, have a blessed New Year and may all your buckets be filled!!

Happy Communicating!

​Shelly