Jeff and I threw a lovely alfresco dinner party this weekend
for two other couples.We have decided among the six of us to host monthly dinner partiesat each other's homes. We all bring something to the tablewhich is such a lovely tradition as well.
Setting up for the dinner partyI realized just how very long
it has been sincewe have entertained just for friendsrather than family gathering events.
This fact made my heart happythat we are truly moving oninto this new phase of Empty Nesterswhich sometimes feels like going back to our pre children daysbut with the richness of adding in the immense love for our adult children.
After feeling so lost for so longat the foreboding quietness in our family homeI am feeling so much better these days about this transition.
This Halloween passing out candyat our house was the first time I could see families Trick or Treating together without a pang of sadness at what was for me.
I write this to remind myselfwe can move through the valleys of lifeto beautiful new horizons.
But it takes focus
and
literally putting one foot in front of the other ...
Focusing on beauty and gratitudeeach and every day.
When I first began my transition
years ago
when my oldest left for college
I wrote on a chalk board in my studio
Tiny steps + intention = success.
I had written it to encourage myself
about my new business ventures at the time.
But now I realize it is just as important during life transitions.
I'm the type of person who too often goes all in excessivelyonly to burn out or be disappointed quickly.
But over the years I have learned I do much bettergiving myself Grace and Self Carewith gentle goalsof new directions.
I have taught myself to focus onthe joy and beauty of lifeeven in the midst of anxiety.
But it is taking the time to truly reflect on the Gratitude I have for my lifethat has buoyed me out of depression so many times.
I realize these daysat my agemy time here is finite.
I choose to focus on the simple beautiesthat are before mecreating joyful memoriesas often as I can.
And to love to the very best of my ability.
As always my friends
I wish you love and joy
as you style your life
I am on a life mission to focus on the joy in my life