Vibrant Hues for a Hopeful Week

Hello dear friends! How has everyone been? Even though it's only been a little over a week since I've been on here, it seems like it has been much longer! Before I begin, I just want to thank everyone who offered their kind words, thoughts & prayers regarding my father being ill. I haven't had the chance to respond to everyone quite yet, but I just want to let you know that I really appreciate your uplifting comments and messages regarding my last post. Thank you so much - your kind & encouraging words helped me a great deal when I was in the hospital, and at times in doubt... Speaking of which, my dad's surgery went extremely well - thank you God!!! Aside from the issues that initially made him ill, he is a strong & resilient being! He is currently recuperating and is on the good road to recovery! :)

While I was visiting my folks in central California, I spent much of my time reflecting. For one, there isn't any internet back home, as my mom refuses to "get online!" :) So, I ended up doing a lot of thinking, reading & reflecting during my visit. After my dad's surgery, I started to rethink my priorities and decided that life is way too short to worry about the trivial things in life. I know that sounds really cliche, but I confess that I do spend a good amount of time getting stressed out over certain things, when I should really just stop & step back for a moment to appreciate all of God's gifts.

Now, I'm not really one to talk about religion or philosophy openly, but I did want to acknowledge that this event made me realize that I have been missing out on many of the things that used to make me happy. You know, the kind of "happiness" that you don't even have to think twice about, if that makes any sense? Sometimes you spend your waking hours going through the motions because it is what is expected, and everything is pretty much "black & white." And for a moment there, that is how it has been...

But wouldn't you know, everything happens for a reason {something I have ALWAYS believed}. And even though these past two weeks have been very difficult emotionally, I really do think God was giving me a little sign...a "boost of color," if you will...

So this cluster of colorful daisies is a little rendition of what I have been feeling as of late: Vibrant & Hopeful!

Sometimes we spend so much time thinking about the past & wanting to know about the future, when we should just focus on what is currently in front of us. I would hate to miss out on a beautiful memory of today because I was too busy thinking about yesterday and tomorrow. Thank you God & thank you dear dad for helping me realize that whatever happens in life, I don't need to fear or be saddened by the outcome! :)

On another {inspiring} note, I also did a lot of reading during my visit {remember, no internet}. :) So I went to the local bookstore and began browsing through the usual reads. But I then came across a familiar publication that I just had to pick up for the first time...

An issue of "Artful Blogging!"

My friend, Tricia at A Rosy Note did a post about being featured in this magazine, so I couldn't grab this issue fast enough! Her photos are so inspiring and beautiful, and never cease to make me smile - and boy did I really "need a smile" that day! :)

Well, I have to admit that I got more than I bargained for when I flipped open my first issue of this stunning publication! All I can say is "Wow!" :) Featured in this mini catalogue, are pages upon pages of inspiring blogs showcasing a variety of themes: From photography to decor to food to art to everything else in between!

If you haven't already picked up your Winter issue, go out and get one! I assure you, it will not disappoint! :)

Needless to say, this lovely little mag came home with me this week. :)

So this weekend, you can find me cozying up in a corner somewhere enjoying my colorful blooms, while thumbing through the rest of these inspiring pages. That and also catching up on all of your wonderful & lovely blogs!

Well that is all for now. Thank you once again for your sweet comments and kind words, they are always greatly appreciated! :) Hugs & have a great weekend, my friends!


XO's,
Jessie



Sharing with
Good Life Wednesday, Life Made Lovely, Pink Saturday & "I'm Grateful For"