Hello Monday ... Hello Gratitude ... Hello Judith

Hello to December's first MondayHello to GratitudeHello to
Judith and her Hat Attackalways one of my favorite monthly link upsbecause of my love, not only of hatsbut my love of Judith as well.
Today I am grateful for clothes that comfortand embrace
Clothes that can give you that extra boostwhen you need it mostClothes that can make getting out of bedand out into the worlda realityeven when your heart breaks.
I mentioned last week I have had an emotional time of late.I have thought long and hardwhether I would mention why...
but this is a space that is mineand where I am honest about things of the heart.
My oldest son has decided at this time in his lifehe doesn't want to be a part of our family.Having a child choosing to estrange themselves form your familybrings a plethoraof complicated emotions
even if the writing has been on the wall.
Having this happen at the holidaysfurther complicates the emotions
Don't get me wrongas much as my heart is brokenI know there are much worse holiday scenarios.It was the holiday season many, many years agothat my sister died.
I hope in my heart of heartsmy son won't always feel this way.Ironically I made the same choice at his age.Only to later realize the importance and privilege of family.
Right nowit is what it is.
I must respect his decision.
I send him  much love and prayersand I will always be here for him.
I also knowsometimes when your heart breaks openyou can  also see the true beautyin your lifewith more clarity of heart.
So this week even with a very tender heart
it is full of gratitude
especially for my Dad's healthfor a lovely time spent with family  this Thanksgiving.
My heart is grateful for my daughterand younger sonand the privilege of spending time with them.
I am so grateful that my husband and I areclose once again ... on the same side.
I am so  very grateful for our family.
My heart is full of family loveand so grateful for spending time with my girland counting the days untilshe returns once again for the holidays.
I am grateful we found our treeand that my favorite season is officially under way.
I am grateful for Christmas carols and the depth of emotion they can add at a moments notice.
I am grateful to find creative inspirationin so many places!
I was inspired with this lovely buntingin Old Town Orangeand can't wait to make some myself!
I am happy I have my holiday plantings doneand outside rooms decorated
I can't wait to share them!
I am grateful for quiet times and morning candlelightTime to reflectand count my blessingwith a grateful heart.
I am so very grateful for you  who stop by...I am ever so grateful for this lovingsupporting communitywhere we can honestly share
and beGrateful.

as always my friends
I wish you love and joyas you style your lifeand count your blessings

linking up withJudith's Hat Attack