Living in Gratitude: The Power of Simple Lists

  

 (On a nice day, Annabelle and Jace enjoy driving their Power Wheels' vehicles.)

In the busyness of everyday life, it can be easy to dwell on what we lack—missed opportunities, disappointments, or the one or two things that went wrong in an otherwise good day. But when we shift our focus from scarcity to abundance, something remarkable happens: our outlook changes, and so does the way we experience life.

For me, this shift often begins with a simple but intentional practice—keeping a gratitude journal. Several times a week, I write down lists of things I am thankful for. Sometimes these lists capture big moments, but more often they are about the small, ordinary blessings that shape my days: the sound of my children’s laughter, a shared meal with my wife, or a quiet evening together as a family.

This practice is not complicated, but it is powerful. Gratitude helps retrain the mind. Instead of endlessly scanning for what is broken, gratitude reminds us of what is whole. Instead of focusing on what we do not have, gratitude grounds us in the good that is already present. Over time, this rhythm creates a positive mindset and an overall appreciation for life as a gift.

Although journaling is a personal practice I engage in privately, I see it as something I will one day teach my children, Annabelle (age 5) and Jace (age 3). They may not yet be old enough to understand the habit or write lists themselves, but I believe they can still learn from my example. When I model a thankful heart and share moments of gratitude openly, they begin to see how important it is to notice blessings instead of burdens. In this way, gratitude becomes a gift I hope to pass on to them as they grow.

The truth is simple: life is good if you view it as good. Gratitude sharpens our vision. It opens our hearts to joy. It teaches us to find contentment in the present moment rather than constantly chasing after the next thing. And the best part? Anyone can start today. All it takes is setting aside a few minutes, grabbing a notebook, and beginning your own gratitude list.

In what follows, I want to share some of the lists I have written during my personal reflections. These lists may be personal to me, but I hope they inspire you to reflect on your own life and write down the things you are thankful for. 

Gratitude for My Wife, Lisa

1. Lisa’s nurturing care for our children as their mother.
2. Lisa’s never-ending support as my spouse.
3. Lisa’s kindness to strangers.
4. Lisa’s love for animals, which brought Tip, our beloved guinea pig, into our family.
5. Lisa’s amazing cooking skills.
6. The way Lisa scratches my back for a really long time.
7. When I feel down, Lisa always cheers me up with the right words.
8. Lisa’s light-hearted demeanor and her appreciation for the simple things in life.
9. Lisa’s responsible and thoughtful financial choices.
10. Lisa’s relationship with the Lord.

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Gratitude for My Daughter, Annabelle

1. Annabelle’s love for Bible study and prayer.
2. Annabelle’s hugs.
3. Annabelle’s playful sense of humor—like her pretend farts on Daddy.
4. The way Annabelle consoles her upset brother with a hug and a gentle, “Shhh, shhh, it’s going to be okay.”
5. Watching Annabelle learn to swim.
6. Celebrating Annabelle’s fifth birthday—and five years of wonderful memories.
7. Annabelle’s affection for her mother, Lisa.
8. Annabelle’s affection for my mom, CeeCee (her grandmother). She often asks, “When will CeeCee come to see us again?”
9. Annabelle’s giggles as I chase her around the house or outside. She has a distinct, memorable laugh.
10. Annabelle’s eagerness to help Lisa or me with chores, cooking, or putting things together.
11. Annabelle’s creativity and love for crafts.

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Gratitude for My Son, Jace

1. When Jace says, “Pleeeaaasseee.” Even when he is upset, he sometimes says it in a terse, grunting way—angry yet still asking for help.
2. Jace’s hugs and cuddles while watching TV.
3. When Jace is upset, he asks for “Daddy” to console him. It feels good to be needed by this tiny human.
4. Jace wanting to go with me to the coffee shop just to be with me, even though it’s usually a place where I work alone (jobs to pay bills).
5. Jace’s affection for my father, JayJay (his grandfather). Just like Annabelle asks about CeeCee, Jace often asks, “Where is JayJay? When will I see him again?”
6. Jace’s surprising love for cold black coffee—I find it funny and ironic that any child would enjoy it. Sharing a few small sips together makes me smile.
7. Jace’s love for sports and being outdoors, which keeps us both active.
8. When Jace says, “I need a huggie,” before going to bed.
9. When Jace says, “Hold you,” meaning “Pick me up and hold me.”
10. Jace using sign language to communicate with me. He continues to learn basic signs at school, which he started practicing as a baby.
11. Celebrating Jace’s third birthday with his friend at Chuck E. Cheese.
12. Jace’s funny way of saying “Nooooopppe” instead of just “No.” Even though “nope” can be a frustrating favorite word of the day, it still sounds cute coming from him.

Gratitude lists remind me that life’s greatest blessings are often found in the everyday moments we share with those we love most. As I look back over these reflections, I am reminded once again of how much I have to be thankful for in my wife, Lisa, and in our children, Annabelle and Jace. To close, I am also sharing a few pictures from our most recent time together as a family—snapshots that capture the joy behind these words and the memories we continue to treasure. I hope these reflections encourage you to pause and consider your own list of gratitude. What small joys, simple blessings, or cherished relationships might you write down today?

(It’s really fun when I can watch the kids drive their vehicles outside. See the previous video at the beginning of this blog entry.)

(Annabelle and Jace were fascinated by this car display in the grocery store. They insisted on getting a picture. Jace looks cute, kissing his sister on the cheek.)

Annabelle and Jace ride the rhinoceroses’ statues at Zoo Knoxville. The zoo recently attained two new residents - Mylo and Ranger - two southern white rhinos.)

 

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#ChoosePositivity #LifeIsAGift #FaithAndGratitude #ThankfulLiving #MindfulMoments
#GratitudePractice #Family #DaddyDestinations #JamesCartee

 

A Refresher – Recognizing Opportune Moments and Seizing Them!

(Paul Walker was known for his cinematic presence and relationship with the actor, Vin Diesel, in the Fast & Furious franchise movies.)

This blog entry is based on a famous quote by Paul Ryan while also mentioning his legacy contributions through cinematic achievements and charitable outreach. This blog message might be a potent reminder of how blessed your life is as it is.

Paul Walker was an American actor born in Glendale, California, on September 12, 1973. He tragically passed away in a car accident on November 30, 2013, in Santa Clarita, California. He is best known for his role as Brian O'Conner in the Fast & Furious film franchise, which became a global sensation and defined his career.

Walker's charismatic performances and on-screen chemistry with the cast, particularly with Vin Diesel, contributed significantly to the success of the Fast & Furious series. His dedication to realism and involvement in daring car stunts earned him respect in both the film and automotive industries.

In addition to his acting career, Paul Walker was involved in philanthropic work through his organization, Reach Out Worldwide, providing disaster relief. His untimely passing profoundly impacted his fans worldwide, and the franchise had to navigate how to continue without his presence. Nevertheless, his legacy endures, celebrated not only for his acting but also for his passion for cars and his charitable endeavors. One of his famous quotes about life states,“Somebody is in the hospital right now, begging God for the opportunity you have. Don't you dare go to bed depressed! Count your blessings and shake it off!”

Some Biblical truths relate to this defining mantra that Walker lived by. The two following Bible passages come to mind. I will further explain their significance to the excerpt from Walker in this text.

“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.” -Colossians 4:2-5 (NIV)

“A cheerful heart is great medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” - Proverbs 17:22 (NIV)

Life is full of substantial and meager moments that shape our journey. We encounter opportunities daily, and it's up to us to seize them. But sometimes, in the hustle and bustle of life or during adverse times, we forget just how precious these moments are. With these inspirational concepts fresh on my mind, I seek to explore the powerful message of seizing the moment, making the most of every possibility, and being grateful for the opportunities God gives us in life, inspired by this famous quote from Paul Walker and these meaningful Bible verses.

These words, quoted by Paul Walker, remind us of the value of the present moment and the vitality of being grateful for what we have in the present day. Walker cautions, "Don't you dare go to bed depressed" because "Someone is in the hospital right now, begging God for the opportunity you have."

Similarly, the Bible also offers guidance and wisdom on these life lessons. Colossians 4:2-5 (NIV) encourages us to devote ourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. It reminds us that worship can open doors for us to share the message of Christ and that we should make the most of every chance to share these motivational messages. This verse emphasizes the significance of being alert to the opportunities God presents us and being grateful that these abundant blessings arise, often for our own betterment as individuals.  

Additionally, Proverbs 17:22 (NIV) tells us, "A cheerful heart is great medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." This verse underscores the connection between our emotional well-being and our ability to embrace life's noteworthy occasions. When we maintain a cheerful heart and a positive outlook, we are better equipped to seize the endless possibilities that come our way. For instance, I might be busier than I want to be with several jobs, a doctoral program, and family responsibilities. However, I get the daily opportunity to be engaged with these present priorities that other individuals might crave and wish they had, looking in from an outside perspective.

So, how can we magnify and apply these principles in our lives?

1.)   Prayerful Living: Begin each day with prayer, expressing gratitude for the opportunities and blessings in your life. Seek God's guidance and wisdom in recognizing and making the most of current circumstances.

2.)   Positive Perspective: Cultivate a positive outlook. Even in challenging times, focus on the good things in your life and the benefits that await you. A cheerful heart can be a source of strength.

3.)   Embrace Every Opportune Moment: Don't let fear or doubt hold you back. Whether it's a chance to help others, pursue your passions, or share your faith, seize the day (or night) and make the most of it.

4.)   Express Gratitude: Regularly reflect on and appreciate the favorable outcomes you've already had. Gratitude has the power to transform your perspective and enhance your well-being.

At the end of the journey, life is a series of moments, and each of these junctures presents potential for personal and professional growth. As Paul Walker's quote suggests, someone is praying for the blessings we often take for granted somewhere in a hospital. Let's commit to being watchful, content, and wise in our actions, just as Colossians 4:2-5 advises. By doing so, we can live with purpose, embrace each moment, and be grateful for the endless possibilities life creates in our path. Remember, a cheerful heart is not only great medicine for the soul but also a key to making the most of life's many adventures and destinations. For me, many of these adventures and destinations involve fatherhood, with Annabelle and Jace as my two biggest fans.

The following pictures illustrate my present-day blessings. I am a family man and love every moment of it!

(CeeCee visited Knoxville to celebrate Annabelle’s third birthday in August at Chuck E. Cheese.)

(A life-size adult could barely fit into this miniature van. Annabelle wanted to ride it several times.)

(These pictures were taken during a family portrait session at Sequoyah Park, which borders the Tennessee River in Knoxville.)

(Lisa and I do not get to see Allison, my sister, as much as we would like. However, she made the trip to Knoxville for this special occasion.)

(Lisa and I do not get to see Allison, my sister, as much as we would like. However, she made the trip to Knoxville for this special occasion.)

(Jace turned one year old. He enjoyed a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles theme party. CeeCee and JayJay, my parents, visited Knoxville for the occasion.)

(CeeCee blessed Jace with this themed birthday t-shirt. Jace enjoyed stuffing his mouth with his first birthday cake.) 

*Please note that the outdoor portrait and the birthday event pictures were taken by a talented photographer named Jack Horsley from Knoxville, Tennessee.

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Jace’s First Birthday and The Townsend Adventures

(Jace eats his first birthday cake with a family audience.)

Lisa and I have many reasons this year to celebrate meaningful events and remember our family’s blessings. For instance, Jace’s first birthday occurred on July 1, 2023. The simplest blessings sometimes possess life’s most powerful messages. My children, Annabelle and Jace, are safe and healthy with two married parents who deeply love them. Sometimes I take these luxuries for granted – safety, good health, and a fruitful marriage. Not every family happens to be so lucky.

While sitting down, Jace often sways to music with his two hands in the air, waving them like he just doesn’t care. These sways might be interpreted as his form of dancing. He especially enjoys dancing to the music of movies and cartoons, such as Frozen’s "Let It Go" or the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles theme song (the latest version of the show). As such, we decorated our home for Jace’s party with Ninja Turtle adornments.

My sister, Allison, has two children, Ayden and Brogan. My father, Jim Cartee, Jr., is known as G-Daddy by Ayden and Brogan. Annabelle has since named G-Daddy, JayJay, for reasons unknown to me. The new nickname seems to have taken hold…. Annabelle and Jace say “JayJay” much more often than "G-Daddy." It is endearing when Annabelle constantly asks, "Where is JayJay? Where is CeeCee?” Annabelle has developed a strong sentiment toward my parents.       

CeeCee, JayJay, and Allison attended Jace’s party. In doing so, they traveled from Nashville to Knoxville, a decent drive of approximately three hours. During the occasion, Jace had his first taste of birthday cake. At first, Jace seemed hesitant, like, "What do I do with this food sitting in front of me?" He then wrecked the cake with his bare hands by stuffing the delicious dessert into his mouth. Jace’s reactions to sweet flavors were entertaining, to say the least! 

After scouring the birthday cake, our family shared dinner together. Then Jace opened his presents. Of course, Annabelle was extremely helpful, eating as much cake as possible and then playing with the gifts…all the things a big sister should do. Annabelle now constantly reminds us that her birthday is approaching in August. As a once-in-a-lifetime event in Jace’s journey, turning one, it was wonderful having the family together. These times together used to be more frequent. So, I cherish the few moments a year we are all together.

As I grow older, I have realized how difficult traveling becomes with two children under the age of three, especially on long road trips. We stayed close to home for a summer vacation to keep things simple. We traveled to a small mountain town named Townsend, close to Knoxville, Tennessee. Before our trip, Allison left after the party on Saturday, returning to Nashville.   

Townsend is nestled in the heart of the picturesque Great Smoky Mountains and offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and historical prominence. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Townsend experienced a logging business boom that fueled its economic growth. The dense forests surrounding the town provided abundant valuable timber, attracting logging companies and sawmills to the area. Townsend now serves as a unique tourist destination on the quiet side of the Smokies, away from the hustle and bustle of nearby Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.

For six days, my parents rented a cabin for our family in Townsend. I wish I had taken more pictures of this residence. The house was built by the grandfather of the man who owned it. The craftsmanship was awe-inspiring! The layout of the cabin included one bedroom downstairs and two bedrooms upstairs. CeeCee and JayJay slept downstairs while Lisa, I, and the kids slept upstairs. There was a comfortable space for socialization and watching television on the main level. Another similar smaller space existed in a loft area upstairs with furniture and another television. The cabin felt homey with candescent lights and the fresh smell of mountain wood. The residence occupied property across the street from the Little River, a waterway where thousands of visitors tube every summer in Townsend. I could have stayed several more days in this beautiful home!

On our first day, with the company of my parents, Lisa and I wanted to take the kids to Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg. We also visited a local moonshine establishment called Sugarlands Moonshine Distilling Company. My parents were soon tired of the July 4^th crowds and the midday heat. So, CeeCee and JayJay left Gatlinburg a little early. At the same time, Lisa, I, and the kids enjoyed an arcade, some light shopping, and the Ole’ Smoky Candy Kitchen. This candy store existed in Gatlinburg since 1952, and this establishment has made homemade taffy since its opening. Their taffy selection consists of thirty-three flavor choices. If you ever visit Gatlinburg, you must visit the Candy Kitchen. Our first day in the mountains was definitely full of action!

On Tuesday, July 4, we all took the kids down by the riverside to swim. Annabelle and Jace would sit in the shallow parts, throw rocks, and enjoy the cool water. At first, both kids were intimidated by the current, but eventually, both seemed to acclimate to the river. At night, the town leadership of Townsend planned a Fourth of July fireworks event. Before the fireworks, there were food trucks and live entertainment with local bands. Annabelle and I threw a Nerf football on a nearby field. When Annabelle and I returned to our chairs, Annabelle wanted to involve CeeCee in throwing the football. Annabelle can throw pretty hard if close enough to your face. She did just that! Annabelle hit Mom in her mouth, knocking her glasses off and messing up a glamorous hairstyle fit for the occasion. I laughed vigorously for several minutes, thus frustrating Mom even more. Annabelle joined in on the laughing escapade as well.

Unfortunately, we might have been too close to the fireworks launch site. It was very loud! While Jace seemed unaffected by the noise, the fireworks scared Annabelle. She has since declared that the fireworks are over and that there will be no more fireworks this summer. The event and celebratory spectacle were phenomenal!

We visited The Dancing Bean coffee house on Wednesday and a few more local country souvenir shops. This coffee shop sits in a large log cabin, close to other shops and a winery. The interior of the Dancing Bean is quaint and homey, with a few tables and chairs. For coffee alone, this is our favorite spot in Townsend. However, if you desire both an excellent coffee and a dessert treat, we also thoroughly enjoy The Chocolate Bar.

We then ate at Townsend's newest restaurant, The Peaceful Side Social Brewery and Craft Kitchen. The eatery includes a microbrewery and a solid food selection. The beer was good, and the food was tasty. The Peaceful Side had a large patio outside and a small playground for young children with slides and a tunnel on what resembled a small hill of greenery. The area's layout was well-designed with families and outdoors enthusiasts in mind. Because Annabelle and Jace enjoyed the river so much the day before, Lisa and I took them back to the same shallow river spot as before. This time, we stayed longer than our visit before, so the kids could soak and swim leisurely. Mom and Dan decided to go home rather than take another swim in the river.

On Thursday, Mom and Dad left to go home in the morning. Lisa, I, and the kids stayed one extra day. While a little challenging with Annabelle, we decided to hike on the West Pong Trail in the Smokey Mountains National Park. The trail is wide and relatively flat with a steady incline, ideal for families with kids. We hiked approximately one and a half miles on the trail before Annabelle wanted me to carry her. We continually try to acclimate the kids to the outdoors; however, kids will be kids. They quickly grow tired and then want to be carried.   

After our three-mile hike (1.5 miles in and out), the kids took a one-hour nap in the car. The Peaceful Side restaurant has a taco bar from Thursday-Sunday during the spring and summer seasons. Lisa and I were eager to try this specific cuisine since we thoroughly enjoyed the restaurant the previous day. The food tasted like traditional Mexican street tacos with delectable spices and ingredients. We again enjoyed being with the kids outside, with the mountains surrounding us on all sides.     

On Friday morning, Lisa and I wanted to visit The Dancing Bean one more time for a last-minute coffee. Townsend has several miles of paved walkways, including alongside the Little River. We walked another three miles with the children in a stroller. Before returning home to Knoxville, we visited the Foothills Parkway, which has some of the most beautiful Wears Valley and Townsend vistas. It is a relaxed road through the mountains without much traffic, so one can pull over and soak in the scenery. It was a solid note to end the trip on! 

Because of Jace’s first birthday and our trip to Townsend, I was reminded of some valuable life lessons. For example, swimming in the river and savoring the taste of moonshine again taught me to find happiness in life's simple pleasures. Life is full of everyday moments that can bring joy if we are present and appreciative of them. This trip reminded me of the importance of living in the present, fully engaged in each moment, just as I was fully present in nature's embrace.

The memories I created with my family during this trip are precious. They reinforced the significance of nurturing and cherishing connections with loved ones, as these relationships enrich our lives.

Nature operates on its own terms, reminding me that there are aspects of life beyond our control. Sometimes, the best approach is to let go and trust the journey, just as I have trusted trails that led me through the wilderness while hiking.

(Jace loves playing with balloons!)

(I kept laughing at Jace shoving the cake in his mouth.)

(Annabelle loves her Aunt Allison!)

(Jace enjoys the river with JayJay’s assistance.)

(When we hike as a family, Jace rides and enjoys the scenery.)

(One of the viewpoints on the Foothills Parkway.)

(Annabelle plays nicely with her brother, Jace, in the river.)

(Annabelle smiles and snuggles with CeeCee during the 4^th of July event in Townsend.)

(Jace likes holding the markers more than actually drawing with them.)

(Jace thinks, “Is my second birthday here yet? I need more cake!”)

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