Today Anything is Possible!

Published on March 20, 2018April 27, 2019 by Gerri7 Comments

Let your joy burst forth like flowers in Spring!

Spring is a time of new beginnings! The earth is bursting with colorful flowers and the trees are budding out, showing off their new green color. The birds are singing their most glorious song and the sky is as blue as the sparkling color of the ocean seas.

It seems that nature is celebrating the return of warmer days with it’s burst of glorious beauty!

He has made everything beautiful in it’s time.

– Ecclesiates 3:11

Spring makes me feel like anything is possible. The increased light and the warmer air encourages me to get outside more, work in my garden, go for long walks, and just take in the glories of nature. It’s finally time to shake off those winter blues and feel the joy that arrives with spring.

Spring is a time of celebration! It’s the time to kick off your shoes and run barefoot through the dew sparkled grass. It’s a time to gather with friends and family for picnics in the garden and cooking on the grill. It’s a time for planting and starting with new beginnings.

For nothing will be impossible with God. -Luke 1.37

My hope for you for today is that you will relish in the glories of spring and lift your eyes in thanks for the beauty of this day.

Wishing you blessings today and everyday. – Gerri

One Word – Simplify

Published on February 11, 2018April 27, 2019 by Gerri11 Comments

Simplify ……this has been my goal in life for oh, so many years. I crave simplicity …. in my home, in my mind, in all that I do.

I have an inherent belief that if I can simplify all aspects of my life. I’m not sure that this is truly possible as we live in an extremely complex world. However, it has been my goal for quite awhile now, so I will continue to strive for this. I believe that if I can truly simplify my life then I will find the peace and serenity that I truly desire. I believe that I’m not alone in this pursuit.

With my goal being to create a simple life, each day I begin with a vision of what this simple life will look like. For me, the first step is to start with my home. I want my home to be as clean, simple and clutter free as possible. I am currently going through every nook and cranny to eliminate any items that I no longer need or desire. I don’t want possessions to create complexity in my life. Clutter makes me anxious. So, I am striving to eliminate anything that restricts my idea of freedom and joy.

Another step in the process is how I spend my time. It’s important to me that my time is spent doing what brings me joy and satisfaction. As I go through this process, I have found that I am now eliminating activities that are not as meaningful to insure I have time for the activities that I most enjoy. Life is full of choices. It’s important to me to choose activities that bring joy. Sometimes, I have to really stop and consider my goals and what brings me the most joy in making decisions. I am not as quick or impulsive in agreeing to do some things as I once was. Often times, I prefer staying home to read a good book or spend time in a creative pursuit rather than filling my time with an activity that has less meaning for me. The added bonus is that I’m not spending money on something I don’t really want or need. This allows me to save for those things or activities that are most important!

Several years ago, I heard of the concept of choosing a “word of the year.” The idea is to choose one word that will guide your life choices for the year. It’s similar to making a new year’s resolution, but more……simplified! At the time I thought it was a great idea, but there wasn’t one word that seemed significant to me. This past year, I ran across the idea in several blogs that I follow. Again, the idea really appealed to me, but what word to choose!

Well, I suppose this idea has been rolling around in my head for a while now, but I have finally decided to choose simplify as my word for the year. I know that it is already February and that I am behind in this process, but I am not one to make a commitment lightly, even if it just involves choosing a word.

Our life is frittered away by detail…simplify, simplify.

– Henry David Thoreau

I am looking forward to my year of simplicity and eager to learn of the influence it may have on my lifestyle. I will definitely be sharing along the way.

If you have a “word of the year,” I would love to hear your word and your thoughts on how your word is effecting your life.

Sending you blessings for a simplified day! – Gerri

The Spirit of Holiday Entertaining

Published on November 26, 2017April 27, 2019 by Gerri2 Comments

With the holiday season upon us, many are planning special celebrations with family and friends. Opening your home to share with others is one of the great joys of the season. However, with so much to do this time of year, sometimes big celebrations can create stress.

When planning your holiday party, it’s important to minimize the stress so that you can truly enjoy your guest. You don’t want to run yourself ragged and feel frantic rather than fantastic! When hosting a holiday celebrations, your spirit will set the mood for a successful celebration.

With these thoughts in mind, today I am sharing ideas that I like to keep in mind when I open my home to share with my family and friends. My hope is that these thoughts will allow you to approach your holiday entertaining with joy and avoid some of the stress that can be overwhelming this time of year.

Let Go of Perfection – Setting yourself up for perfection will do nothing but create anxiety and stress. Instead of worrying about creating the “perfect party”, concentrate on the comfort of your guest. When you put the focus on doing for others, you think less about yourself. Nothing is more welcoming than a hostess who really cares about the comfort of her guest.
Set Your Priorities – Remember often less is more. Plan for what you know you can handle with grace and ease. Stick with what you know and are comfortable with. No need to have a multi-course meal. Plan a few amazing appetizers instead. Serving buffet style is simpler than a sit down affair. Keep it casual and fun!
Make a list and check it twice! – Planning is a key ingredient to successful entertaining. Begin planning your party preparations as soon as possible. Try making a manageable daily schedule assigning yourself a small task for each day. Begin with decorations and nonperishable items that are easy to stock and purchase in advance. Order items on-line whenever possible to save time. Shop for grocery items a few days in advance and plan to prepare a few items the night before. Even better, prepare a few dished you can freeze in advance.
Delegate Whenever Possible – Don’t feel like you have to do every little thing on your own. Enlist a good friend or your spouse to help. Consider ordering desserts from a bakery or appetizers from your grocer. Do not feel like you have to prepare all food items from scratch!
Plan a Beverage Station – Consider serving a premixed beverage for your guest like a Sangria or Champagne Punch. Have these drinks in containers in the frig and ready to go. Set out glasses and and ice bucket in a convenient location and have guest serve themselves.
Be Ready! – Prepare the table and all the decorations the night before. You can even do fresh flower arrangements a day or two in advance. Nothing says “Welcome to my home” like having simple fresh flowers and candles burning filling your home with delightful aromas.
Make a time schedule – The day of the party, make a time schedule for whatever tasks need to be completed. Make sure in your schedule you allow yourself some time to relax and refresh!
Relax and Enjoy! – Greet your guest with a smile and a hug! Remember to put the focus on their comfort and enjoy!

True hospitality consists of giving the best of

yourself to your guest.

– Eleanor Roosevelt

Wishing you all great joy this holiday season! – xxoo Gerri

Find Gratitude – Find Joy

Published on August 20, 2017April 27, 2019 by Gerri2 Comments

Gratitude – the quality of being thankful, showing appreciation and returning kindness.

Today, I was reminded of gratitude. I have to admit, I have been slouching around, complaining about the August heat and allowing myself to wallow in my discontent. Not a good place to be.

But today, I was reminded that I can choose joy!

It was just a simple article on my morning news feed. The article focused on a woman who had tragically and unexpectedly lost her husband. But the heart of the article was remembering gratitude in an overwhelming situation. It made me feel so silly and selfish for allowing myself to wallow, when truly I am so fortunate.

Then later this morning, I found out that a very dear friend of mine was in a terrible car accident. Her car was T-boned and the jaws of life were brought out to remove her from her vehicle. I have to say she is fine, just very shaken up and a bit sore. But what a frightening event to go through. Thank goodness for seat belts and airbags!

Some how, knowing how frightening this experience was for her put everything into perspective. I remembered the importance of the simple everyday things that usually bring me so much joy, my loving family, the joys of nature, and a faith that sustains me through all the adversities of life.

It’s easy to get stuck in a rut. However, if you remember gratitude each day, it helps to keep you from falling into that rut. Gratitude can also pull you up when you are in such a rut.

Finding ways to cultivate gratitude in our lives can increase our happiness and joy. Simply stopping to think about things we are grateful for increases an attitude of gratitude. Taking the time to acknowledge simple pleasures and express thankfulness for your blessings can increase your joy and zest for life.

To cultivate an attitude of gratitude, here are some things I try to remember to help me through my day.

Morning reflection – this quiet time really helps to get my day off to the right start
Showing kindness – offering assistance, a kind word or smile, a helping hand to someone in need can mean so much to others.
Say thank you to show your appreciation – those simple words can mean so much, but so often we forget to say them.
Share what you have with others – tip that waitress that was so kind an extra dollar – drop off some groceries at a local shelter – When we share what we have, it not only helps others, it makes us feel better about life in general.
Keep a gratitude journal – make a list of things you are thankful for – or better yet, write 3 things everyday that you are thankful for – start off small – but as you continue, you will be amazed at how your gratitude will grow.
Be a good listener – sometimes someone just needs their thoughts to be heard – You have know idea what a difference you might make to someone by simply really listening to their story.

So there you have it. If you have actually read the words in this article, that shows that you truly care and want to make a difference. Go out into the world and make that difference. In our world where there is so much hate, be a product of love. I believe in you!

Gratitude unlocks the fullness in life.

Blessings to you and yours always – xxoo Gerri

Finding Everyday Joy

Published on August 6, 2017April 27, 2019 by Gerri3 Comments

Finding joy in the simple things is my quest. I seek simplicity, peace and serenity. I strive to make my days and my surroundings as quiet and peaceful as I possibly can. I have made a purposeful decision to avoid stress and chaos in my life and I structure my days for calm and quiet.

I realize this may not be completely possible. I know that life can be stressful and there are certain times when stress and chaos are hard to avoid. However, I am making a purposeful choice to turn away from stress and chaos and fill my days with calm and quiet.

This has been a long term goal of mine, however, as with many goals, often we fall short of what we have planned. Life gets busy, overwhelming, with stressful jobs, raising families, and seemingly endless to do lists of things we believe must be accomplished each day. It’s easy to get caught up in the everyday stresses of life. Sometimes so caught up that we become weary, physically exhausted and emotionally drained.

Finding everyday joy involves finding simple pleasures in ordinary moments. Finding joy each day involves taking a moment to enjoy small, simple pleasures.

I know that I cannot completely avoid stress and busyness in my life. I know would be unrealistic. But there are things that I can do to bring a stressful day back to calm.

Here are some tips that I follow when I feel my peace and calm is turning into hectic and crazy.

Start each day with quiet. I know this can be difficult, but I try to carve a few minutes of quiet into the beginning of my day for meditation, reflection, prayer. It truly gets my day started on the right foot.

Flowers, candles, music. I love for my home to be filled with fresh flowers, the smell of scented candles, and spa music or jazz playing softly in the background. These things can instantly take the hectic out of my day and bring me back to calm and joy.

Spending time in nature. A part of everyday for me includes a walk outdoors and some time in the garden soaking up some Vitamin D and enjoying the nature that’s around me. The simple quiet of a gentle breeze and chirping birds can relieve stress from my day.

Being Creative. Writing, drawing, painting, photography, arranging flowers…..anything that allows me to simply escape and forge my own way brings me relaxation, calm and rejuvenates my spirit.

Keeping things simple. I try not to let to much clutter into my life. This includes physical and mental clutter. Stuff that takes up space in my home and stuff that takes up space in my brain. If I don’t need it it in my life, I let it go.

Find the simple moments in your day and you will find joy. xxoo Gerri

Celebrate Life!

Published on July 25, 2017April 27, 2019 by Gerri3 Comments

In our family we do celebrations. We celebrate all occasions, the big and the small.

We celebrate weddings and graduations. We welcome a new life with great joy and yes, celebration. We all come together, crowding into the hospital room, to share the new parents joy and to welcome the precious new life our family has been blessed with.

We celebrate birthdays, no matter how young or how old.

We gather in our home. Sometimes it’s just family. Sometimes we include close friends. We share a meal together, setting the table with great care, including flowers, candles, whatever it takes to make the event feel special. The menu is planned with great care to include the personal favorites of whoever is attending. Of course, there is a special desert and presents.

The goal of the celebration is for those involved to know how much they are loved and treasured as a part of our family. Life wouldn’t be the same if we couldn’t come together and honor them on their special day.

Not only do we celebrate birthdays. We celebrate preschool programs, dance recitals, sporting events.

We plan ways to make our time together fun, special, memorable. On hot days we have watermelon, blow bubbles, fill up a kids pool to splash in.

On cold days we light a fire, make hot chocolate, bring out the pillows and blankets so we can all snuggle together.

Our celebrations do not have to be elaborate and expensive. They can be small, simple, filled with things that are easily attainable. We use our ingenuity as a resource to create an atmosphere of festivity, saving our pennies when needed.

Sometimes we celebrate for no reason at all, just to enjoy our time together.

The importance of our celebrations is to spend time together in a way that is filled with love and laughter, sharing and caring.

It’s important that we spend as much time celebrating life as possible. Celebrations enrich our lives, give us purpose, and strengthen relationships. Celebrations take an ordinary day and fill it with joy and love.

My Hygge Obsession

Published on February 14, 2017April 27, 2019 by Gerri1 Comment

Lately, I have been obsessed with the Danish practice of hygge, pronounced hue-gah. I’m not quite sure for the reason for my obsession. Perhaps because it seems to be the embodiment of all that I am longing for in my life. It gives validity to the peace and serenity that I so long for and have been trying to create in my own little world. It has a name and that name is hygge.

I have long been a fan of coziness. Sitting by the fire, lighting candles, and buying fresh flowers to have in my home are not new concepts to me. Craving a simpler, less hectic life and taking pleasure in simple, everyday things is what I strive for. Spending quality time with friends and family, but also treasuring alone time, cuddling up with a good book or on occasion, cooking a fabulous meal for my husband, are things that I am passionate about.

Perhaps it’s because I feel such a strong connection to this latest wellness trend that I feel so obsessed. It’s like “Hey, new friend. You really get me! You understand what I am all about!” You know that feeling when you meet a new person and you just immediately connect. Yeah, that’s how I feel about hygge. And I have to say it’s a really good feeling!

Today, we are experiencing 100% chance of rain. It is pouring right now. Temperatures will drop into the 40’s again tonight. I know that’s not especially cold compared to the weather in Denmark, but it’s cold enough for me!

Tonight, for Valentine’s we will probably have a fire and light some candles. ( I picked up fresh flowers yesterday.) We will definitely be staying in. We have no desire to fight the crowds at restaurants on Valentine’s Day! We will have a wonderful home cooked meal and maybe a glass of wine. I’m sure it will be a very hygge evening!

I think our world needs a little more hygge right now. Valentine’s Day is a day of love, a day to show kindness, to reach out to others and show them you care. Today, consider calling a friend who might be alone, maybe an older relative who has lost their spouse, or anyone you can think of who might need a little lift. Share your love and fill our world with a little hygge. Who knows, if everyone makes an effort, maybe we can raise the hygge quotient around the world.

Peace and Love to all on this Valentine’s Day!

xx00 Sending Extra Hugs Today – Gerri

Photographs of these precious children are property of To Create Sunshine. Thank you for not using them for other purposes.

A hygge state of mind

Published on February 12, 2017April 27, 2019 by GerriLeave a comment

It’s a dreary winter day complete with a dense fog that has set in and plans to stay awhile. So how about seizing the moment with a roaring fire and lighting some delightfully scented candles to enjoy the day.

Apparently this is a concept that the Danish have mastered. They refer to it as hygge, pronounced hue-gah, which translates to cozy, although it really means so much more.

Even though there have been several books written on the subject, I only learned about the Danish word hygge recently. Apparently, Oxford Dictionaries selected “hygge” as one of their Words of the Year for 2016. I suppose that is why “hygge” is getting so much attention lately.

You see the Danish have incredibly long, cold winters with very few hours of sunlight. However, they embrace their winters by taking pleasure in ordinary everyday things, like a crackling fire, scented candles and cozy blankets with warm socks. If I had to endure long, cold winters I’m sure I would be craving these things as well!

From what I’ve come to understand, hygge is really a state of mind; an attitude full of contentment with life. It’s about savoring the moment, relishing simple everyday life experiences, and enjoying time spent with friends and family. It’s all about embracing the moment and living in the present.

I don’t think you have to be Danish to have hygge in your life. Life can be hectic and stressful. It’s important to find ways to step away from the stress and enjoy simple pleasures in your life. Sometimes we need to slow down and enjoy the moment. This may mean a quiet evening by the fire or it could be spending time reading a good book, listening to music, or pursuing any activity that brings you joy. It might mean sharing a meal with close family, or using some alone time to soak in a hot bath, or go for a long walk.

Whatever it is that brings peace into your life, I hope you will take some time to embrace the simple pleasures of everyday moments.

Wishing you a very “hyggelig” (enjoyable) day! xxoo Gerri

Choose Joy This Christmas!

Published on December 14, 2016April 27, 2019 by Gerri3 Comments

Busy, busy, busy! That is my life this time of year and I’m sure your life is super busy too! It is so easy to get stressed out this time of year when there are so many things to do. Shopping, decorating, wrapping presents ….. the list seems endless at times. This is supposed to be the most joyous time of year. Unfortunately, many of us get bogged down by our “to do” list and forget about the joy.

If you are feeling this way, take a moment or two to breathe. Go and grab a hot mug of tea or your favorite drink, and take a load off for a bit. I promise, the most important things will all get done. As for all the other things….let them go.

Here are a few things I do to keep the stress down and fill my life with joy!

Don’t Forget Gratitude Instead of fretting over that endless to do list, be thankful for the things you do have. Remember those less fortunate who would love to be shopping, wrapping gifts, and decorating a home. Above all, be thankful that you have a home.

Make a list, check it twice! List ten things you need to accomplish. The first item should be the most important thing on your long to do list. That specific need that must be accomplished today. The least important item will be last. As your making you list, think about what really needs to be done, and what could be put off for a day or two. Then get busy and tackle those first items on the list. If you can’t finish everything, it’s okay. Get a good nights sleep and start again tomorrow. This way your most important priorities will get taken care of. If something doesn’t get finished, well … maybe it wasn’t that important after all.

Take care of yourself. Speaking of a good nights sleep, don’t forget to get plenty of rest and to make healthy dining choices! You need to get enough rest and plenty of healthy nutritious food to feel your best. Try packing carrots and hummus for a quick nutritious snack. If you are dining on the run, try a salad with your meal rather that french fries. Your body will be ever so grateful!

Drink plenty of water. If you enjoy an occasional adult beverage, this is not the time to overdo! You cannot afford a headache in the morning! Pace yourself and remember to drink water in between each drink. Coffee can also be an evil culprit. I love my morning coffee, but I can no longer can drink caffeine after noon or I will have trouble sleeping at night. Try water with a little lemon. It will be so refreshing!

Choose Joy! Your friends and family would prefer to have the gift of your presence rather than one more present! Be there for them with your mind and your spirit. Reach out to others and share your heart. You will find that when you truly put others first, your joy will return.