Have you ever had those days, that sometimes turn into weeks, where you are just disappointed or depressed? Lately, it seems like there is this funk, you know I mentioned it here, that I have fallen into and can’t escape. I keep trying new things, attempting to meet new people, I have definitely been writing more, but it is still there. I chatted with a good friend tonight who made me feel better as he always does. M and I have a date night coming up for my birthday, so there is that to be excited about. I have a lot to be thankful for and happy about. And yet, Negative Nelly I remain dependent on others to find happiness.
So I sat down to look at some pictures I took today of my little monster at the park and the walk we took and decided to read a blog I have been meaning to check out. It was exactly what I needed to hear at this moment. It felt like she was speaking to me and it motivated me to not only write this post, but to practice what she is preaching; gratitude. It is so easy to get caught up in what is negative or sad or depressing. It is so easy to turn sometimes into “always”. But I know this is not the person I am and I know I am usually happy, positive, and optimistic. That being said, I am going to try out Erika’s process of abundance and gratitude. I have high hopes it will help me get my groove back (not quite like Stella, but close!).
These photos do a great job of showing what I have to be thankful for:
And sometimes, our children do a great job at reminding us of the simplest of lessons:
Hang in there. The funks can come and go, but you’re right - our little ones can make the biggest difference in our outlook. =)
They sure can! It’s amazing what just a little smile can do!
Oh, yes, we all fall, but you have a great reason to get right back up. What a cutie patootie you have!
And please give yourself and expat hall pass. You’ve moved away from everything you knew, started up a new life, have a toddler, and are soldiering on. THAT is FAR from falling. You are moving forward, girl!
DO enjoy that date night, totally.
X
Thanks Gypsy, you’re always a voice of encouragement! X
“an” expat hall pass, is what I meant to write …
Aww, your little man is adorable!
I need to do better at being thankful for what I have and stop comparing myself to other people.
Your son is adorable! I have to get on board and be more thankful too- and stop worrying about the things I don’t have because I’m here. And I’m looking forward to being completely submerged into the vast pool of motherhood soon. I hope it changes my perspective and lets me be the person I normally am in the best situations, like you; happy and humored.
Thank you!! It’s hard and sometimes motherhood makes it harder, but it makes it so much better the majority of the time. He can have me so frustrated I’m ready to cry and then he smiles, gives me a hug and I still want to cry because it melts my heart! Motherhood is an amazing journey! Can’t wait to hear about yours when you begin!
Oh I look at my kids baby photos when I’m depressed, they never fail to make me smile. Especially the funny ones from when they were still smaller
It’s amazing how much joy can come from doing that. It completely changed my mood!
I am so glad Erika inspired you! She is an amazing blogger.
I think we can all fall into a funk like that sometimes, what matters is how you handle it and pull yourself out!
So true! It’s easy to get stuck in a rut but being positive is actually so much easier. We just forget sometimes. Thanks for commenting!
you’re on the right road - finding ways to express gratitude is a sure way to make you feel better. Children have a way of showing us the simple things in life that we take for granted. When one door closes another opens.