With Thanksgiving just around the corner gratitude is on our minds. Research has shown, that simply thinking about gratitude reduces stress levels and depression and releases the “feel good” hormone DHEA. In addition, practicing positive thinking and gratefulness trains your brain’s neurological pathways to think happy by default as opposed to ruminating on the things which didn’t go your way or are out of your control.

I’m Eva and I’m eight. San Juan Island is my favorite place and Orca whales are my favorite animals. First I get to take the ferry to come visit (make sure your Mom & Dad make reservations!), that’s so cool. There are puzzles on the tables that other people have started and if I get tired of that I can walk (no running, yes, Mom!) around the ferry boat about 12 times and then we are in Friday Harbor.