Gratitude: It’s a Life Changer

“If you want to turn your life around, try thankfulness. It will change your life mightily.” – Gerald Good 

Yesterday I had a book signing, for my new book The Mom’s Guide to a Nourishing Garden, and I was super nervous. Like sweaty palms nervous.  Before I left in the car, I did my mental checklist to make sure I had everything. And then I said out loud, the only thing I’m missing is courage.  

You’d think that I’d be over that by now.  I’m 38 for crying out loud! 

But fear can be overwhelming and paralyzing.   Scary and deflating.

Then I remembered something huge. 

This was the direction I had been working so hard to veer into.  To talk with moms and know their struggles and to somehow nourish them with words and inspiration.  Inspiration to change the world right in front of them.

It’s my dream.  And I was living it.  I was grateful.

I realized that one thing called gratitude can boost courage.  Courage to step in the direction we want to go.  Courage to make ourselves vulnerable.  Courage to put ourselves out there. 

Always have a grateful heart

I want to share my gratitude for some moms who came to support me. 

Barbara – owner of Plum Creek Market – so generous and giving.  Barbara puts her heart into everything she does – she’s the new owner at Plum Creek Market and it’s a beautiful shop filled with bulk spices and foods, along with specialty food items and gifts too! 

Barbara Plum Creek Market

Thank you, Barbara, for your hospitality.  I can’t wait to drizzle your gift of honey on my roasted vegetables! And use the vanilla in my most favorite recipes.

My FAM-club: 

FAM club pic book signing

From second cousins to daughter, Emma, to mom (next to Emma) and my grandma – (secretly my biggest PR agent), I’m grateful for my family’s support in showing up, helping me stand taller and helping me stretch my reach. It’s amazing how excited they were to be there for little old me.

And it’s true – even guys are eager to read the book! Thank you Tom for your meaningful words and for being a friend to my parents for many years! 

Tom Book Signing

And Tera – an women’s ministry leader who I am constantly inspired by – she took the time to come down and say hi.   After being Facebook friends for a couple of years, it’s great we finally got to meet in person!  Thanks for all your support, Tera!

Tera Ellness

While I didn’t capture pictures of everyone who helped out – like my husband, son, and daughter.  I’m so grateful for all they do – from carrying in my stuff, helping me set up, coming along and just being there.  Ever supportive.  Beyond blessed.

And my dad – why didn’t I get a picture? This man took time out of his busy day to attend this somewhat of a “lady gathering” and even bought everyone dinner at the highly recommended River City Eatery.   

Where I enjoyed this blueberry pie.

Blueberry Pie

Thank you, dad.  Your sacrifices speak volumes.

And my mother-in-law who initially went into the store to share the book with Barbara. You started the process.  Thank you!

Can you do this one thing?  

While it might be scary and paralyzing, can you do this one thing make one small step today? One step in the direction your life is meant to go in.  One step closer to the mom and woman you were meant to be.  One step in the direction your soul is whispering. It’s going to be good, I promise.

And one more thing: share your gratitude with whomever helps you get there. 

Can you share your step in the comments below?  And who’s helped you get there? I would love to hear your story in the comments.

Jen Haugen Book Signing Plum Creek Market

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