I’m sitting in my house on a rainy day, with plans for gardening gone astray. I’ve got a bleak cup of coffee and apparently my brain is already shutting down for the day. It’s only one o’ clock in the afternoon. The clouds need to part and the sun needs to make a diva appearance, glitter and all, and then it needs to sing loudly right in my sweet face. Is that asking so much? My plans of gardening are out the window and I’m not interested in Extreme Gardening. (Is that real? It should be). Overall this weather is causing me to lament what I originally decided to write about — being thankful.

Here's some free therapy from a complete stooge (me). Take heed, as my life consists of usually being a hot mess. Somehow there's balance in my life, which includes constant maintenance so I can grow into being a better version of myself and often times makes me feel like a walking self-help book. Lately, what's worked to keep me focused on the important things in life is getting rid of all my first world problems. It's helped me a lot lately and has made a "world" of difference. (Also, I am equally appalled by that last joke.)

There is something to be said for people with big hearts. Throughout history we see bravery, courage, and heroism in many forms. We think these people are passionate as they break down barriers. They inspire, encourage, and uplift our spirits hearing about their bold tactics and world changing philosophies. We are all capable of becoming those people. My proof are my own personal heroes, they just have a silent sort of chivalry. They are my parents.

Happy New Year! If you are reading this, congratulations, the holidays are over!

How was it? Did you make it out OK? Usually it’s easy for me to observe the holiday chaos. This year the Christmas cheer hit my house in a mellow way, so my face was buried in cookbooks, crafting, and being a hermit with my kids. It’s like I fell into a portal and landed in the 1950s. Also with the power going out quite a bit the past months, lighting good old-fashioned candles was nice and vintage (and made the house smell good). What appropriate timing for those who own menorahs!