I can’t believe the week is already halfway over and tomorrow is Thanksgiving. I had so many plans for this week, including getting much of the house decorated for Christmas, but life had other ideas. Instead of checking off boxes, I found myself juggling projects and deadlines and making far less progress than I imagined.
Case in point: while setting up a bit of Christmas decor and talking on the phone, a curtain rod came loose and fell off the wall in the family room—right onto my head. One task finished, another suddenly added to the list. Sometimes that’s just how it goes.
When days get hectic it helps to laugh, cut yourself some slack, and keep an attitude of gratitude even when things don’t go as planned. I’ve been reminding myself of that a lot lately.
To be fair, I’ve been busy with book work—finishing edits on one, nearly done with a second, and already starting a third—so decorating time has been limited. I’m constantly learning lessons about time management and trying to find a balance between work and home life. It’s not always easy, but I’m getting better at recognizing what’s realistic to accomplish.
The truth is I can often achieve more than I expect when I focus and manage my time, yet I also frequently accomplish less than I dream. The sweet spot for me is somewhere in between—where life isn’t only about doing, but about fully experiencing the moments. That’s the balance I aim for.
Maintaining an attitude of gratitude and enjoying life during busy seasons often means choosing thoughtfully what to say yes to and what to decline. When everything feels chaotic or something unexpected like a curtain rod mishap derails your plans, it’s okay to call it a night, relax with a favorite movie, and reconnect with family. Those quiet, simple moments matter just as much as the to-do list.
This week we’ll be sharing Thanksgiving dinner with new friends and hosting family over the weekend. In preparation my daughter Courtney and I went grocery shopping and now have a 24-pound turkey waiting in the fridge. We’re looking forward to slowing down, cooking a good meal, and gathering around the table to give thanks.
I’m loving the simple metal star garland I used on the mantel—an understated piece that adds a cozy, seasonal touch without a lot of fuss.
What are you doing this week to keep your attitude of gratitude?
Related Post: 20 Little Attitudes of Gratitude
Only a few more posts left in my Loving Fall series. Catch up with the earlier entries if you missed them.
Intro, Day One: Getting In the Rhythm, Day Two: Quiet, Day Three: Cozy Imperfections, Day Four: Rust, Coral, and Orange Fall Inspired Rooms, Day Five: Fall Nights by the Fire, Day Six: Candlelight, Day Seven: Turkish Towels, Day Eight: Fall Traditions with the Pups, Day Nine: Settling In, Day Ten: Displaying Small Trinkets and Treasures, Day Eleven: Christmas Dreaming, Day Twelve: Organization, Day Thirteen: Mulled Cranberry Apple Cider, Day Fourteen: Fall Nesting for Holiday Entertaining, Day Fifteen: Holiday Cooking, Baking, Bloggers and Cookbooks, Day Sixteen: Simplicity in the Laundry Room.