My Gratitude Mug-Day 1,397-Finding Joy in the Journey

Day 1,397 – Finding Joy in the Journey – Tuesday – 8/31/2021

My Gratitude Mug

I love starting my mornings off with my gratitude mug. It reminds me that in our crazy world, I do have so many things to be grateful for in my life. I have started a practice of spending quiet time in the morning writing down 10 things I am grateful for from the previous day. My goal is that my list is different every single day. There are so many things I am grateful for that in the busy-ness of life, get lost. My journal helps me focus on the blessings in my life. It also helps to put me in the right mindset as I follow up with my I am statements that are focused on abundance. I believe what you focus on is what you create. Gratitude and abundance together are powerful!

My Gratitude Mug

About “Finding Joy”

And I’m off…. the 16-day adventure begins. The timing of this trip is interesting so I’m naming it “Finding Joy in the Journey.” I’ll be doing one dedicated post each day (at the end of the day or next morning). Since I typically post more than once a day, you’ll find it as a black and white photo. I’ll share the joy of the journey (on the trip or through this season), where I’m finding it and what I’m learning. I hope to inspire myself along the way. And if I can inspire others too, that would be a gift. So let the journey begin…

It was November 2017 and I was ready to head off on a sixteen-day trip.  Nine days before leaving, my mom unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack. It shook me to my core.  I had always been told the 40’s are the best years of your life.  And in a matter of three years, since turning the age of 40, I had gone through a divorce and lost both parents. 

I contemplated canceling the trip though I knew my mom would not be happy with that decision. She would want me to continue living my life.  My parents did not raise me to sit back and watch life; instead to fully participate in every moment. So I promised my parents to find joy in the journey everyday on my sixteen-day trip and share my experience with others. 

Little did I know what “Finding the Joy in the Journey” would turn into when I acted on the prompting to share my experience on a daily basis.  It helped me see life differently and my wish is that it will inspire others find joy in their journey.

The Fishbowl-Day 1,396 – Finding Joy in the Journey

Day 1,396 – Finding Joy in the Journey – Monday – 8/30/2021

The Fishbowl

Welcome to command central inside the fishbowl. My office has glass doors and a big window that looks down the patio to the lake behind the house, thus the name “fishbowl”. And the awesome Greener Still team set me up with a large monitor as they all wonder how I’ve been doing everything from my laptop screen. I love this new set up and having a big screen to make my work life easier!

The Fishbowl

About “Finding Joy”

And I’m off…. the 16-day adventure begins. The timing of this trip is interesting so I’m naming it “Finding Joy in the Journey.” I’ll be doing one dedicated post each day (at the end of the day or next morning). Since I typically post more than once a day, you’ll find it as a black and white photo. I’ll share the joy of the journey (on the trip or through this season), where I’m finding it and what I’m learning. I hope to inspire myself along the way. And if I can inspire others too, that would be a gift. So let the journey begin…

It was November 2017 and I was ready to head off on a sixteen-day trip.  Nine days before leaving, my mom unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack. It shook me to my core.  I had always been told the 40’s are the best years of your life.  And in a matter of three years, since turning the age of 40, I had gone through a divorce and lost both parents. 

I contemplated canceling the trip though I knew my mom would not be happy with that decision. She would want me to continue living my life.  My parents did not raise me to sit back and watch life; instead to fully participate in every moment. So I promised my parents to find joy in the journey everyday on my sixteen-day trip and share my experience with others. 

Little did I know what “Finding the Joy in the Journey” would turn into when I acted on the prompting to share my experience on a daily basis.  It helped me see life differently and my wish is that it will inspire others find joy in their journey.

Girlfriend-Day 1,395 – Finding Joy in the Journey

Day 1,395 – Finding Joy in the Journey – Sunday – 8/29/2021

Girlfriend

I believe we need our girlfriends. The girlfriends that get us. The girlfriends that love us for who we are. The girlfriends that listen to our hopes, our dreams, and our fears. The girlfriends that don’t judge us for our choices even though they may see the world differently. We all need girlfriends like this.

It was wonderful to spend the day floating in the pool with my dear and one of my longest girlfriends in Houston. We chatted. We laughed. We reminisced. We don’t see each other all the time though every time we do, we pick up right where we left off. I love you Margaret – thank you for your friendship. It means so much to me!

Girlfriend

About “Finding Joy”

And I’m off…. the 16-day adventure begins. The timing of this trip is interesting so I’m naming it “Finding Joy in the Journey.” I’ll be doing one dedicated post each day (at the end of the day or next morning). Since I typically post more than once a day, you’ll find it as a black and white photo. I’ll share the joy of the journey (on the trip or through this season), where I’m finding it and what I’m learning. I hope to inspire myself along the way. And if I can inspire others too, that would be a gift. So let the journey begin…

It was November 2017 and I was ready to head off on a sixteen-day trip.  Nine days before leaving, my mom unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack. It shook me to my core.  I had always been told the 40’s are the best years of your life.  And in a matter of three years, since turning the age of 40, I had gone through a divorce and lost both parents. 

I contemplated canceling the trip though I knew my mom would not be happy with that decision. She would want me to continue living my life.  My parents did not raise me to sit back and watch life; instead to fully participate in every moment. So I promised my parents to find joy in the journey everyday on my sixteen-day trip and share my experience with others. 

Little did I know what “Finding the Joy in the Journey” would turn into when I acted on the prompting to share my experience on a daily basis.  It helped me see life differently and my wish is that it will inspire others find joy in their journey.

Butterfly-Day 1,394 – Finding Joy in the Journey

Day 1,394 – Finding Joy in the Journey – Saturday – 8/28/2021

Butterfly

I walked out the front door and saw a flurry of activity. From a distance, I thought it was a hummingbird though as I came closer, it was this beautiful and rather large butterfly. It seemed as happy as it could be. It made me smile at it and the beautiful flowers Steve planted in the front yard. A little piece of nature interrupting the weekend routine.

Butterfly

About “Finding Joy”

And I’m off…. the 16-day adventure begins. The timing of this trip is interesting so I’m naming it “Finding Joy in the Journey.” I’ll be doing one dedicated post each day (at the end of the day or next morning). Since I typically post more than once a day, you’ll find it as a black and white photo. I’ll share the joy of the journey (on the trip or through this season), where I’m finding it and what I’m learning. I hope to inspire myself along the way. And if I can inspire others too, that would be a gift. So let the journey begin…

It was November 2017 and I was ready to head off on a sixteen-day trip.  Nine days before leaving, my mom unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack. It shook me to my core.  I had always been told the 40’s are the best years of your life.  And in a matter of three years, since turning the age of 40, I had gone through a divorce and lost both parents. 

I contemplated canceling the trip though I knew my mom would not be happy with that decision. She would want me to continue living my life.  My parents did not raise me to sit back and watch life; instead to fully participate in every moment. So I promised my parents to find joy in the journey everyday on my sixteen-day trip and share my experience with others. 

Little did I know what “Finding the Joy in the Journey” would turn into when I acted on the prompting to share my experience on a daily basis.  It helped me see life differently and my wish is that it will inspire others find joy in their journey.

A Photo on My Phone-Day 1,393 – Finding Joy in the Journey

Day 1,393 – Finding Joy in the Journey – Friday – 8/27/2021

A Photo on My Phone

When I take a photo on my phone, my phone thinks I am my mom, Margo. Every single picture I take, it puts me as Margo instead of Callie. It makes me laugh and I haven’t tried to fix it or reprogram the phone as it’s a nice reminder of my mom. I do resemble her quite a bit.

While at my sister’s for a pool day, I found this Yeti she had that was my mom’s. I’ve now claimed it since that’s why my phone says. LOL! Thanks, Jeni, for the Yeti and the fun day!

A Photo on My Phone

About “Finding Joy”

And I’m off…. the 16-day adventure begins. The timing of this trip is interesting so I’m naming it “Finding Joy in the Journey.” I’ll be doing one dedicated post each day (at the end of the day or next morning). Since I typically post more than once a day, you’ll find it as a black and white photo. I’ll share the joy of the journey (on the trip or through this season), where I’m finding it and what I’m learning. I hope to inspire myself along the way. And if I can inspire others too, that would be a gift. So let the journey begin…

It was November 2017 and I was ready to head off on a sixteen-day trip.  Nine days before leaving, my mom unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack. It shook me to my core.  I had always been told the 40’s are the best years of your life.  And in a matter of three years, since turning the age of 40, I had gone through a divorce and lost both parents. 

I contemplated canceling the trip though I knew my mom would not be happy with that decision. She would want me to continue living my life.  My parents did not raise me to sit back and watch life; instead to fully participate in every moment. So I promised my parents to find joy in the journey everyday on my sixteen-day trip and share my experience with others. 

Little did I know what “Finding the Joy in the Journey” would turn into when I acted on the prompting to share my experience on a daily basis.  It helped me see life differently and my wish is that it will inspire others find joy in their journey.

Karaoke Night-Day 1,392 – Finding Joy in the Journey

Day 1,392 – Finding Joy in the Journey – Thursday – 8/26/2021

Karaoke Night

I love that Sweetwater is having lots of fun evening activities. Tonight, was karaoke night and a taco bar. It was fun seeing some of the members and staff sing their favorites.

About “Finding Joy”

And I’m off…. the 16-day adventure begins. The timing of this trip is interesting so I’m naming it “Finding Joy in the Journey.” I’ll be doing one dedicated post each day (at the end of the day or next morning). Since I typically post more than once a day, you’ll find it as a black and white photo. I’ll share the joy of the journey (on the trip or through this season), where I’m finding it and what I’m learning. I hope to inspire myself along the way. And if I can inspire others too, that would be a gift. So let the journey begin…

It was November 2017 and I was ready to head off on a sixteen-day trip.  Nine days before leaving, my mom unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack. It shook me to my core.  I had always been told the 40’s are the best years of your life.  And in a matter of three years, since turning the age of 40, I had gone through a divorce and lost both parents. 

I contemplated canceling the trip though I knew my mom would not be happy with that decision. She would want me to continue living my life.  My parents did not raise me to sit back and watch life; instead to fully participate in every moment. So I promised my parents to find joy in the journey everyday on my sixteen-day trip and share my experience with others. 

Little did I know what “Finding the Joy in the Journey” would turn into when I acted on the prompting to share my experience on a daily basis.  It helped me see life differently and my wish is that it will inspire others find joy in their journey.

Sunrises and Sunsets-Day 1,391 – Finding Joy in the Journey

Day 1,391 – Finding Joy in the Journey – Wednesday – 8/25/2021

Sunrises and Sunsets

I love sunrises and sunsets. There is something about both of them make me happy. I’m happy to see a new day with the sunrise and the possibilities at hand. Sunsets make me happy as I get to spend the evening appreciating the day.

This morning I was able to experience a beautiful sunrise on my walk. I feel truly blessed on having this beauty just out my backdoor. When I moved to this home back in 2018, I had dreamed of being on water and having space. When I stepped onto the back patio, I knew I was home. I love that I live in Sugar Land though get to experience the beauty of nature every day on my walks.

 Sunrises and Sunsets

About “Finding Joy”

And I’m off…. the 16-day adventure begins. The timing of this trip is interesting so I’m naming it “Finding Joy in the Journey.” I’ll be doing one dedicated post each day (at the end of the day or next morning). Since I typically post more than once a day, you’ll find it as a black and white photo. I’ll share the joy of the journey (on the trip or through this season), where I’m finding it and what I’m learning. I hope to inspire myself along the way. And if I can inspire others too, that would be a gift. So let the journey begin…

It was November 2017 and I was ready to head off on a sixteen-day trip.  Nine days before leaving, my mom unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack. It shook me to my core.  I had always been told the 40’s are the best years of your life.  And in a matter of three years, since turning the age of 40, I had gone through a divorce and lost both parents. 

I contemplated canceling the trip though I knew my mom would not be happy with that decision. She would want me to continue living my life.  My parents did not raise me to sit back and watch life; instead to fully participate in every moment. So I promised my parents to find joy in the journey everyday on my sixteen-day trip and share my experience with others. 

Little did I know what “Finding the Joy in the Journey” would turn into when I acted on the prompting to share my experience on a daily basis.  It helped me see life differently and my wish is that it will inspire others find joy in their journey.

I Love Lashes-Day 1,390 – Finding Joy in the Journey

Day 1,390 – Finding Joy in the Journey – Tuesday – 8/24/2021

I Love Lashes

I Love Lashes. Last week I mentioned one of the things I see myself doing forever is coloring my hair. This indulgence may not be forever though something that I absolutely love. LASHES! I don’t love having them done as I have to lay still for an hour though I love the outcome. I’ve never had big and thick lashes (and include an allergy to green tea so a lot of the enhancers don’t work for me). This is the next big thing. Yes, they bring me joy!

Lashes

About “Finding Joy”

And I’m off…. the 16-day adventure begins. The timing of this trip is interesting so I’m naming it “Finding Joy in the Journey.” I’ll be doing one dedicated post each day (at the end of the day or next morning). Since I typically post more than once a day, you’ll find it as a black and white photo. I’ll share the joy of the journey (on the trip or through this season), where I’m finding it and what I’m learning. I hope to inspire myself along the way. And if I can inspire others too, that would be a gift. So let the journey begin…

It was November 2017 and I was ready to head off on a sixteen-day trip.  Nine days before leaving, my mom unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack. It shook me to my core.  I had always been told the 40’s are the best years of your life.  And in a matter of three years, since turning the age of 40, I had gone through a divorce and lost both parents. 

I contemplated canceling the trip though I knew my mom would not be happy with that decision. She would want me to continue living my life.  My parents did not raise me to sit back and watch life; instead to fully participate in every moment. So I promised my parents to find joy in the journey everyday on my sixteen-day trip and share my experience with others. 

Little did I know what “Finding the Joy in the Journey” would turn into when I acted on the prompting to share my experience on a daily basis.  It helped me see life differently and my wish is that it will inspire others find joy in their journey.

At my Desk This Morning-Day 1,389-Finding Joy in the Journey

Day 1,389 – Finding Joy in the Journey – Monday – 8/23/2021

At my Desk This Morning

It was so nice sitting down at my desk this morning and having the trays organized once again. The top tray had gotten out of control as it was piling up with personal stuff that I needed to deal with. Sunday’s piddling made for a nice atmosphere on Monday. I am happy when things are all taken care of and back in place!

It was so nice sitting down at my desk this morning and having the trays organized once again.

About “Finding Joy”

And I’m off…. the 16-day adventure begins. The timing of this trip is interesting so I’m naming it “Finding Joy in the Journey.” I’ll be doing one dedicated post each day (at the end of the day or next morning). Since I typically post more than once a day, you’ll find it as a black and white photo. I’ll share the joy of the journey (on the trip or through this season), where I’m finding it and what I’m learning. I hope to inspire myself along the way. And if I can inspire others too, that would be a gift. So let the journey begin…

It was November 2017 and I was ready to head off on a sixteen-day trip.  Nine days before leaving, my mom unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack. It shook me to my core.  I had always been told the 40’s are the best years of your life.  And in a matter of three years, since turning the age of 40, I had gone through a divorce and lost both parents. 

I contemplated canceling the trip though I knew my mom would not be happy with that decision. She would want me to continue living my life.  My parents did not raise me to sit back and watch life; instead to fully participate in every moment. So I promised my parents to find joy in the journey everyday on my sixteen-day trip and share my experience with others. 

Little did I know what “Finding the Joy in the Journey” would turn into when I acted on the prompting to share my experience on a daily basis.  It helped me see life differently and my wish is that it will inspire others find joy in their journey.

A Day of Piddling-Day 1,388 – Finding Joy in the Journey

Day 1,388 – Finding Joy in the Journey – Sunday – 8/22/2021

A Day of Piddling

It was a relaxed Sunday. A day of piddling. I love on the weekends when I can get up and piddle around the house. On this day, Steve and I woke up so late, we missed our tee time. That’s really rare for me to sleep in though my body must have needed it. Getting up late made for a day with no plans. So, I piddled around the house all afternoon, made chicken pesto for dinner, and took a nice walk around the lake at sunset with Steve. Some days it’s nice to have no plans at all.

 I love on the weekends when I can get up and piddle around the house

About “Finding Joy”

And I’m off…. the 16-day adventure begins. The timing of this trip is interesting so I’m naming it “Finding Joy in the Journey.” I’ll be doing one dedicated post each day (at the end of the day or next morning). Since I typically post more than once a day, you’ll find it as a black and white photo. I’ll share the joy of the journey (on the trip or through this season), where I’m finding it and what I’m learning. I hope to inspire myself along the way. And if I can inspire others too, that would be a gift. So let the journey begin…

It was November 2017 and I was ready to head off on a sixteen-day trip.  Nine days before leaving, my mom unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack. It shook me to my core.  I had always been told the 40’s are the best years of your life.  And in a matter of three years, since turning the age of 40, I had gone through a divorce and lost both parents. 

I contemplated canceling the trip though I knew my mom would not be happy with that decision. She would want me to continue living my life.  My parents did not raise me to sit back and watch life; instead to fully participate in every moment. So I promised my parents to find joy in the journey everyday on my sixteen-day trip and share my experience with others. 

Little did I know what “Finding the Joy in the Journey” would turn into when I acted on the prompting to share my experience on a daily basis.  It helped me see life differently and my wish is that it will inspire others find joy in their journey.