Dear Friends,

Can you think of one circumstance that happened in your life when it was hard to find joy in that moment? There are things that will happen in our lives when we have to look really hard for something that looks like a blessing.

This year has brought some situations into my life where I had to ponder on the blessing. Through sickness, accidents, things breaking, storms, fallen trees, and more, I can look back at each circumstance and see at least one blessing.

In the moment of the hardship, I have to remind myself to breathe and have faith. Something good will come out of it.

The Holiday season from Thanksgiving to Christmas can be hard for some of you. It brings back memories of pain and loss for some of you. We lost my grandfather on December 13, 2008. The days leading to that date always cause me to reflect back on the years I had with him. He was like a father to me, and he was the one who fixed everything for me when it broke. A big hole was left in my life when he died. I treasure the memories we made and the time we had together.

Some of you have lost a loved one in the past year, and this is your first big Holiday season without them. Reflect on the joy they brought to your life. Don’t fret with worries or regrets. Love the ones who are with you now. Even if you are sad and grieving, you can still love the people in your present. You can still feel happy and joyful.

If you have neglected some of your routines lately, jump back into them. Shine your sink. Get dressed to the shoes. Make your bed. These simple things can help you feel better about yourself. They can brighten your mood.

Have you neglected your paperwork? Purpose to spend 10 minutes a day on your paperwork. Whether that means filing, paying bills, or shredding paper, just be consistent with this routine starting today.

Have you had a hard time planning for the Holidays and getting your presents purchased? Make a short list, and get started today. You don’t have to pull out every decoration you own either. Put out a few Christmas decorations that bring you joy. You can keep it simple and still have a meaningful celebration.

If you are in the midst of a storm, hang in there and move forward a step at a time.

Today’s Zone Mission is to declutter items from one kitchen drawer.

Your Home Blessing for today is to declutter paper and magazines.

My menu plan for Thursday is chicken and a salad.

Have a great day!