Thanksgiving is coming up soon and with that in mind, I wanted to do something different today. Instead of writing about braces, orthodontics, and oral health, I want to list a few things I’m grateful for. With Thanksgiving so close to the end of the year, it’s a good time to pause, look back at the past 11 months, and reflect on what’s been especially important to me in 2019 so far.
My health. This requires no explanation. It’s easy to take good health for granted, so I try to remind myself it’s not a guarantee and that I’m lucky to be in good health.
Loving friends and family. Again, this requires no explanation. I’m so thankful for all the incredible people in my life!
Positive feedback on my book. Writing and publishing a book is a long process that takes commitment, and you never know how it’s going to be received until you put it out there. I am so incredibly grateful for all the wonderful comments we’ve received for my book, The Smile of Your Life. I put so much of myself into my book and it’s very gratifying to see it be received so well.
Opportunities to reach more people. One of my lifelong goals is to have a positive impact on many people. Working directly with patients to give them a beautiful smile is one way I do that. Having a book that’s available to people who don’t live in the Salem, OR area is another. This year, I’m especially grateful for the many opportunities I’ve had to be featured in magazines, radio, and even TV to reach people I might not have otherwise. It’s allowed me to deliver the message that a healthy smile is important and that everyone deserves to have one!
Being able to continue my education. Education has always been important to me and you may not know this, but I actually graduated college with a degree in engineering. It wasn’t until after graduation that I then decided to go to dental school. But I didn’t stop learning after graduation; in addition to completing work-related continuing education credits every year, I just started an online MBA program at the University of Illinois this last August. This is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time and I’m so excited to learn something new.
Travel. I’ve had the chance to travel to some amazing places this year! I’m very thankful to have the opportunity to see other parts of the world and learn about other cultures.
Our practice manager. I’m grateful for the amazing practice manager we brought on this year to manage our practice and make life easier for all of us.
Amazing colleagues. I learn so much from my amazing colleagues all the time and together we strive to make Castilla Orthodontics even more awesome.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours. Wishing you a wonderful holiday weekend with friends, family, and of course, delicious food. Just don’t forget to brush your teeth after the pumpkin pie!
