The Gift of Gratitude
Gratitude doesn’t require perfection. It doesn’t mean ignoring life’s messiness. It means noticing the good, especially in the midst of it.
Lately, I’ve been feeling overwhelmed with gratitude - for this life I get to live, the people I’m surrounded by, and the joy of fully being me.
Just recently, I had the incredible opportunity to share my children’s book, Song of Friendship, at a local book signing event. I can hardly put into words the amount of love, encouragement, and support I received that day. It felt like more than just a reading - it was a celebration of connection, creativity, and community.
It was a beautiful late-summer Saturday, and I know how full life is this time of year. Still, you showed up. You carved out time from the many things calling your attention to be with me at a small, independent, family-owned bookstore in Valparaiso, IN. My heart is still full.
People came from all over. I met new friends, like the aspiring author who shared the dream of her own story. I got to witness her excitement and maybe, just maybe, one day I’ll see her book on the shelves, too. There were hugs, laughter, shared inspiration, wide-eyed kids listening intently, and so much love in the room.
I believe this is what life is about.
Celebrating one another. Lifting each other up.
Supporting local, believing in independent creators, sharing our stories, showing up as we are.
Honestly, the joy and love I felt that day reminded me of some of the biggest moments in my life. I showed up nervous, vulnerable, and real... and I was received with open hearts. That is everything to me.
Song of Friendship Children’s Book Reading + Signing at The Press in Valparaiso, IN.
A Season of Gratitude
As we prepare to close out summer and gently step into fall, I’m reflecting on what this season gave me, and asking:
What are you carrying with you into this next season?
What are you choosing to leave behind?
What does fall mean to you?
"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away."
— Maya Angelou
Windows open, the breeze moving through my space, there’s a stillness, but also a quiet momentum. A sense that we’re coming together for a greater purpose. This is the ripple effect of gratitude, presence, and connection.
Gratitude doesn’t require perfection. It doesn’t mean ignoring life’s messiness. It means noticing the good, especially in the midst of it. Even in micro-moments, gratitude shifts something in us. It's not toxic positivity; it's choosing appreciation, even when the future feels uncertain.
My Micro-Gratitude Practice
Here’s what I do:
Even if I wake before my alarm, I say:
“God, thank You for this beautiful day You have so graciously blessed me with.”
Gratitude reminds me to loosen my grip, to release the illusion of control. In patience and presence, I surrender to God's timing. That’s when the magic unfolds.
So I’ll ask you this:
What are you grateful for right now?
I’d be honored to witness your list, but even if you don’t want to share it, I invite you to start your own simple morning ritual. Just a few moments of thanks. Make it yours. Let it evolve.
My Hope for You..
As this season shifts, I hope you:
Hold your vision gently
Bathe in gratitude for the unfolding
Trust the timing
Take micro-steps toward your truth
And most of all, feel proud of how far you've come.
Because I’m proud of you.
And I’m so grateful you allow me to show up in your inbox every other week.
Until next time,
With love and gratitude always,
Angie
