Hello Gratitude

Hello my friends!

I'm back today talking about gratitude.

I am always in awe

when I remember to slow down

and

 just think about what I'm grateful for in a day

how much better my life actually is.

So this week I have spent much time focusing on being grateful

for the small things 

and 

the big.

From simple alfresco meals in the backyard …

to simply taking the time to sit

and 

watch the afternoon sun flicker through the trees

and

 paint shadows everywhere it falls.

Just taking the time to sit

and 

watch our trees dance in the wind

as 

the sky changes color.

I have had so much fun this week

'playing in my own backyard.

From doing little projects to fluff it daily

to making sure to take the time

to slow down

and 

savor and enjoy it.

I am absolutely loving my summer tepee still.

I know it will only last through the summer

so it's impermanence 

makes me want to savor time in it everyday.

Up until this year 

I have always loved fall best of all

and 

summer was something to almost 'get through'

waiting for fall.

But at my age now

I realize the importance of

savoring and enjoying every season

to the very best of my ability.

This summer I definitely have.

With a fully emptied nest

and 

the wedding behind us

Jeff and I have set out to change up our lifestyle.

To find something fun to do nearly everyday.

Even if it's a small way to find simple joys

or a mid week champagne harbor cruise.

I have been intent on spending quality time

with our kids every two or three weeks.

I am now always on the lookout

for new and creative things to do

with our wonderful beloved adult children.

I have moved on from grieving their departure

to marveling at

what wonderful adults they all have become.

I have moved to adoring spending time with them as adults

moving happily from the parenting role.

Now they are truly some of my favorite people to hang out with.

On that note

I am ever so grateful

Jeff and I were able to go back down to San Diego last weekend

to take our kids to brunch

at a brand new spot in North Park.

I got to see Ellis's favorite store Pigment

that I will share more of at a later date.

I am very grateful to have time to finish up some mosaics

that have been on my list for oh so long!

I am taking back all of my backyard

one area at a time.

I have even returned to working in my studio

in the hopes of reopening my shop

with a fresh new collection!

One of my favorite things this week

besides my weekly kayaking 

that is always on the top of my list …

sunset beach picnics with lovely friends!

Jeff and I are lucky enough

to go to many different types of restaurants

but 

a sunset beach picnic

is really hard to beat!

Every time we are at the beach at sunset

gratitude rushes into my heart.

Just the immense grandeur and beauty

speaks right to my soul.

This has been a beautiful week.

With a lovely balance of

nature

family

and 

creativity.

My heart is full and ever so grateful

for all the big things

and

 each of the little things

that make up a wonderful  full life.

Intentional gratitude truly can be life transforming.

As always my friends

I wish you love and joy

as you style your life