Why I blog....and a few links

One morning, I awoke to a kind note in my inbox, it was a letter of appreciation from one of my readers. In it she expressed gratitude for my blog which really struck a chord with me. Over the past five years this blog has transformed from a family record to a public platform. I have learned first hand there is beauty in life's struggles and allowing yourself to be vulnerable does not make you weak. Opening myself up to others, especially after our son passed way has been one of the scariest and most rewarding experiences of my life. 

Oftentimes, this blog might feel like a solo endeavor as I pour my heart and soul into sharing glimpses of our life, but whenever I receive a kind word, a compliment or a little motivation from one of my readers it makes my heart full and the purpose of my blog manifests itself. Life is beautiful and worth sharing, even the hard, ugly and sad parts. 

When I think about why I blog I reflect on the power of a kind word or an inspirational thought. Often its impact stretches far behind the confines of this blog. There is beauty in sharing, so I will continue to share and hope you will stick around for the journey.

We are expecting an arctic storm this weekend, so while I cozy up with a blanket and a cup of hot cocoa, here are a few links for some weekend inspiration:

Looking for a way to spruce up your Thanksgiving table? Then why not make these simple yarn wrapped pumpkins. 

Host a Friendsgiving or Give Thanks dinner this year. 

Make a large pot of homemade soup.

Adopt a new holiday tradition or two.

Start making plans for Black Friday, and more importantly Small Business Saturday.

This essay a woman wrote on having a stillborn baby really spoke to me this week. 

Don't forget to enter to win the "Give Thanks" reader giveaway.