As I strolled into Starbucks this morning to get my pumpkin spice latte, I noticed a board full of sticky notes with writings of gratitude and positive sayings. What a truly amazing idea. It prompted me to write something I was grateful for and oh, how I could feel my heart expand with love. Before I get out of bed in the morning, I try to think of 5 things I am grateful for. It helps me so much to create an intention for my day. It makes me feel better somehow…..and most of all it makes me feel grateful for all that I have.

As we kick off the month of November, it is truly crazy to me to think that 2021 is nearly over. It won’t be long until we are carving the turkey at Thanksgiving, roasting our Christmas dinner, and clinking champagne glasses to celebrate the start of a new year.

Yes, the days and the weeks seem to be moving fast, but this month, families are purposefully slowing down and intentionally carving out time to focus on what matters most. We must teach our kids to have an attitude of gratitude, and when we look around the country and see so many folks who have lost their homes, their jobs, and even more this past year, I can’t help but appreciate the blessings we do have in our lives.

So, to help you build your appreciation muscle, here are ten simple ways to add the practice of it to your daily life at work and at home.

1 . Say “please” and “thank you.” Practicing kindness on a regular basis is an important way to show everyone you appreciate them.

2. Catch someone doing something right. Take notice of pictures, what someone is wearing, or something else you like about them. Show them that you care about who they are.

3. Show genuine interest. Take notice of what someone is wearing, or something else you like about them. Show them that you care about who they are.

4. Go to lunch or take a break. Give the gift of your time — go to lunch, take a break, or go for a walk and connect with someone on a more personal basis.

5. Give a small gift. Give a favorite coffee drink, candy bar, or flower to someone you appreciate and just say “thanks for all you do”. It can be as simple as a sticky note with that same sentiment.

6. One word: food. Make a batch of brownies, or bring in a fruit plate to the office kitchen, or deliver a treat to a remote worker.

7. Create traditions. Have everyone write down one person they appreciate and why, and put them in a hat. Draw one out for a prize. This is also really fun to do at home!

8. Celebrate successes. When things go right, celebrate! Acknowledge everyone involved, even for the small stuff. It can make a huge difference in office and family morale.

9. Say it out loud. Tell someone you appreciate them in front of others. Tell your spouse you are thankful for him in front of the kids or your friends how much you appreciate them.

10. Tell their boss. Don’t you wish someone would do that for you? What a powerful way to show gratitude that can have a lasting impact!

Make appreciation a daily habit Show appreciation and gratitude often. Everyone has a real need to feel appreciated and valued. In practicing daily gratitude for others, you will find that you become not only a more positive communicator but that you also become more optimistic, less stressed, and generally happier and healthier as a result!

Don’t you just feel warm all over just knowing how easy it is to be in an attitude of gratitude! We sure are at Meadow Boutique! This week we have more Fall fashion to share with you. We are full to the brim with fashion and gifts. No kidding! We are fully in the holiday season mood. See for yourself with all of our new arrivals below. We just received some really fun Fall dresses. Perfect with a cute hat and scarf. Add some tights and boots or even jeans to complete the look. GILLI always comes through for our seasonal dresses. STACCATO never ceases to amaze us with all the stylish sweaters that have come our way. There’s a little bit of Christmas too, with ornaments and candles and cute little gifts of soaps. We also have some furry slippers to keep you warm on those cool mornings. There are many stocking stuffers to be had. You must stop by while we are fully stocked. Items at Meadow Boutique have a way of disappearing rather quickly after the blog post hits the streets. I don’t have to tell you that twice! If you see something you like on this post - run in and grab it, or ask us to hold it for 24 hours. Here today, gone tomorrow!

Since we are talking about gratitude, we want you all to know how much we appreciate you and all you do to support us and make us smile. We are grateful for all of you and your families. We can’t wait to help you get dressed for the holiday season that is upon us and the gift giving you will do to make others feel good too. It is our honor and joy to serve you. Let’s remember all the amazing things that are happening in our lives and focus on the good. When we think of you, it makes us break out in song……..xoxoxoxo

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” ~ John F.Kennedy

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