Gratitude is the Gift that keeps on Giving.

I remember the first time I heard about the power of gratitude — I was skeptical. All I could think about was what was going wrong, who had let me down, that I didn't have enough money and I hadn't accomplished enough. It took years to fully appreciate that gratitude is what keeps you authentic, creative and inspired. So now as the year comes to close, I make a list of all the great people, moments, experiences, accomplishments, disasters and challenges for which I am grateful.

If you haven't made your list yet or have never made such a list — do it now, as I share mine with you.

I am grateful for:

1. My husband, Gary, who makes life easier, healthier and so much fun riding our bikes
2. My mother, Molly, who continues to teach me about the future
3. All my family — step kids, siblings, nieces and in laws — for spending time with me
4. Dearest friends for listening and laughing — you know who you are
5. Co-workers, board members, advisors and coaches at Count Me In — I could not do it without your dedication and hard work
6. The challenge of getting one million women to a $ million — it keeps me focused
7. The weak economy — it keeps me flexible, efficient and creative
8. Aging — it makes me value everyday even more
9. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton for showing us all that pressure is a privilege
10. American Express OPEN for believing in Count Me In
11. Sam's Club for their encouraging support
12. Met Life Foundation for support year after year
13. Maria Pacheco for introducing me to women entrepreneurs across Central America
14. Gayla Bentley for your fabulous clothes and Heidi Schultze for great make up;
15. Every M3er who has broken the $ million barrier — you show other women that they can do it too
16. Each and every member of the Count Me In Community for your desire to make a better life and bigger business. Together we will make the world a better place for everyone.

Happy Holidays!

In gratitude,

Nell