Lately I have been overwhelmed by an amazing feeling of pure gratitude. As Andy and I continue down this path, I cannot share enough how grateful I am and feel. This new path has allowed us to be present to ourselves, our family, and our friends at a level we have never experienced before. Of course, there is an overwhelming amount of uncertainty as we tackle this new adventure, but the process of living through it continues to teach me so much. I am gracious for every moment this opportunity is giving me.
This past week, I experienced some moments in my childrens’ lives that truly stood out. Our oldest daughter graduated from kindergarten and I was present. Our youngest son turned 11 and together we may “dirt cups” for all of his friends at school. I had a few moments and I planted my trough gardens…I have been able to feel every moment of everyday.
This is new to me and I love it. I have realized over the past few months, that before I always felt like I was present in my children’s lives, but I now wonder if I truly was. With my new career comes pure joy and simplicity and with that a true ability to be present to my family, my friends, and to new people I am meeting along the way.
Just yesterday I walked into Ace Hardware and was recognized by the cashier who waited on me just a few days before. We talked about my project and she remembered me. I took the time to listen to her and enjoyed the moment. I am filled with gratitude for this.
I have noticed graciousness in my children too. We are all more gracious. When you are loving what you are doing, it affects everyone who surrounds you. I truly don’t know how to offer advice to you all on gratitude, other than with one thought…just be open to it. If you can, slow down, even if it’s for a minute.
Sing “Peter Pan” on the back steps of your porch with your daughter, as you watch the sun go down. Pull out all the markers and crayons and color for hours with her. Drive your son to soccer practice and listen to him give you his reasoning as to why “Cake by the Ocean” is overplayed. Look into your little monkey’s eyes, as they grin knowing the tooth fairy came and delivered $2 in the night. Try really hard to just slow down for a minute.
I am so guilty of moving onto the next task on my long list of things to do and I am sure several of you can relate. Over the past few months I have “forced” myself to look up from the “to-do” list between items and just embrace what is in front of me. It hasn’t been easy to do. I am a woman who has always been considered “Type A”. We are filled with the desire to overachieve and sometimes we miss the beauty right in front of us. It’s a new way of thought.
Like I said, I am so grateful that God has reopened this door for me. I tear up often, just realizing that I am doing what I love with all of my heart. There is nothing more satisfying than seeing someone walk into their home and beam at their new space. There is nothing more exciting to me, than to share design projects with my almost thirteen year old and have him ask how he can help. I AM BEYOND grateful for all of this.
Many of you have asked, “How is the business going?” and I am so grateful for all of the support that Andy and I have received. We both know we are on a tree limb of life and learning. We are uncertain of what God’s plan is for us and that is ok. We are embracing this time and experience and I am confident knowing that I will forever strive to embrace each and every moment.
I have gratitude for all that we are experiencing.
Make it a great day and THANK YOU.
Kellie