Gratitude Day 31

 A day of reflection. How many people will say things like, "where did the time go?", or "what happened to the year ?". I don't want to be that person. Instead, I shall count my blessings and move forward into 2026 with great expectation and comfort that God is in control. 

What filled my 2025 year? Much travel. Hawaii, Ecuador, Italy, Toronto, Poland, Japan, and Germany/Austria. I know that this year was amazing and I saw many new places, met new friends, and experienced life in a fabulous way. I also know that going forward, things will need to change - my husband needs more care and I also except that we will need to downsize sooner rather than later.

Art wise - My "Earth Fragments" were exhibited at Quad City Arts, gallery in Rock Island. After completing this series, I took some time off to play, experiment, and plan. I have developed a vision board for the coming year and look forward to creating the spiritual series I've thought about for some time now.

Family - I didn't see my kids as much as I would like, although, a trip to Hawaii with Jes and a trip with Arrianne to Toronto (I finally saw Niagara Falls!), were memorable times. A trip to St Louis with my mom was delightful. My son took great care of his grandma and we fit in a ton of sights while there.

I look at the past year and say, "Wow, how did I fit it all in!"

Gratitude Day 29

 It is super cold and windy. Our furnace is not doing a good job keeping up. I am so very grateful for the wood burner.

Gratitude Day 27

 I had lunch with my kids yesterday and then stopped by the market to pick up a few things on the way home. I felt tremendous joy having them both together for a short while. It doesn't happen often. I am grateful for joy. 

Gratitude Day 26

 I am thankful for datenight with my son. It was great to enjoy a movie with him (and a bag of popcorn!)

Gratitude Day 25

 I'm thankful for the birth of Christ

Gratitude Day 24

 Grateful for: cooking with my son

We spent time in the kitchen making stew for lunch, meatless tofu crumbles, shrimp for tacos, and Mexican rice. It is always more fun to create with someone who is eager to play!

Gratitude Day 23

 I was thinking this morning about Momma Kitty and her long, long life. She has been with me for almost 20 years now. She doesnt ask for much  - food, water, and some attention. Pets really do teach us about life and keeping things simple. I have a little bench next to my exercise bike and she sits next to me while I pedal, content to just be there. I am grateful for pets.