In a happy twist of fate, I had to be in New York for a shoot yesterday - and I also have to be here for a vh1 thing after Thanksgiving, so I’ve decided to spend the next week at an ashram in upstate New York (yes, the same one that made such a powerful impact upon me when I visited for two weeks last May.)
“OMG but you’re missing Thanksgiving with your family!?!” Well … yes. My parents will be celebrating Thanksgiving at the University Club in Chicago, and my little brother & Allie will be driving down to New York for the holiday. I’m the type who has ALWAYS flown home for Thanksgiving to see my family - but because I’ve made spending time with them on a regular basis a priority this year (more so than any time since before I left for college), it actually doesn’t feel as necessary. If there’s one thing I’ve realized this year, Thanksgiving - time spent appreciating your family - shouldn’t be once every 12 months!
Besides, the ashram has a special workshop next week called “The Art of Gratitude and the Gift of Grace,” to which I’m particularly looking forward. In the six months since I last was there, I’ve changed my life (and attitude) significantly, but I do think I need a refresher. It’s like going to church or taking a shower. You can’t just do it once and expect the benefits to last. ;)
I hope all of you have a wonderful, blessed holiday with your loved ones. Know that I am grateful for you and am sending you my heartfelt thanks - especially to my loyal readers, who have stuck with me for years, especially during the last one, as I’ve begun a massive life transition before I turn 30 (!!!) in February.
Much love to you all.
xo
j
