in my life to emerge. I learned to let go of the crippling need for certainty and embrace uncertainty. I got through each day by writing in my Thank You journal, as I focused on all that I had to be thankful for, instead of what I did not have.   

 

The economic downturn was one of the best things that could have happened to me. By saying “no” to everything, I learned to enjoy staying home and appreciating the simple things in life – sitting on my lanai and watching the sunset, and going for walks outdoors.  I also learned to enjoy working out at home on my Total Gym, which my neighbors donated. How amazing!

 

In spending quiet time at home, or going for walks outdoors, ideas would come to me, and I paid attention to the messages.  On my walks, I paused under the covered bridge overlooking the trees and the brook to drink in the beauty of the scenery.   This was my special place where I would give “Thanks” and enjoy being in the present moment. Then the magic began….all the right people started showing up at just the right time to take me on this journey of creating something special… A Gratitude Journal from the Energy of the Sea. I’ve come back full circle to my love of the ocean.  When I write in this Journal with my photographs of the seashores I have visited, it gives me pleasure and brings a peace and serenity. 

 

If not for the economic downturn, I would never have experienced the joy of exercising outdoors and appreciating all the beauty and the scents of nature. I now see the world through different eyes. By giving “thanks” each day, the Universe has a way of bringing good things to my life. And when I’m in a state of gratitude, I look for more things to be thankful for each and every day.