Hello, lovely readers!
As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, October brings that cozy, sweater-weather feeling. You know, the kind that makes you want to curl up with a good book and a cup of coffee? As the days grow shorter and the leaves put on their annual color show, I find myself reflecting on the little things that bring joy to my everyday life.
Life’s a whirlwind, isn’t it? Some days, it feels like we’re caught in a never-ending loop of to-dos and challenges. But then there are those moments, those tiny, unexpected sparks of joy that light up our day. And honestly? Those are the moments that keep me going.
Did you know there’s actual science behind the power of positive thinking? Yep, focusing on the good stuff — those small moments of happiness — can boost our mood and even give our immune system a little pick-me-up. It reminds me of a verse that’s always resonated with me: “A merry heart does good, like medicine, But a broken spirit dries the bones.” (Proverbs 17:22).
So, what’s been making me smile lately?
- That first sip of morning coffee. Pure bliss.
- The way the autumn air feels, all crisp and fresh.
- Puppy snuggles. Need I say more?
- Those spontaneous, laughter-filled moments with the family.
- Getting lost in a story, like the world outside just fades away.
- Simple moments with my husband, like our quiet walks.
- And, of course, the comfort of my favorite sweatshirt. It’s like a hug!
Speaking of stories, I’ve got a little treat for you. My recent tale, “One Sweet Christmas,” is a part of the “Once Upon a Starry Night” collection. While it’s set against a holiday backdrop, its heart beats with themes that are timeless: rediscovering life’s magic, cherishing loved ones, and those delightful twists of unexpected romance. If you’re in the mood for a story that warms the heart, I’d love for you to dive into it.
Inspired by all these moments of joy, I’ve started a new ritual. Every day, I jot down something that made me smile or feel grateful. It’s my little way of pausing, appreciating, and soaking in the good vibes.
How about you? What’s been bringing a smile to your face lately? I challenge you to join me in this little gratitude journey. Let’s celebrate the everyday joys, the big and the small.
Laura Ashwood is an award-winning, USA Today Bestselling author of sweet contemporary and historical western romance, and women's fiction. Laura and her husband live in northeast Minnesota. She works a full time day job, and in her spare time, she likes to read, cook and spend time with her husband. She is a devoted grandmother and chihuahua lover.
Happy Saturday and Fall Laura Ashwood, IR authors and readers! Today is my oldest son’s 23rd wedding anniversary. Taking a road trip to see my 2nd son and our granddaughter with a surprise for our granddaughter, her cousin is coming along. The girls haven’t seen each other since August. Much to be grateful for: nice warm home, utilities, food, health, friends and family, ease of traveling around our beloved Michigan, gorgeous fall colors (even though it has been raining every weekend for a month), the delight of children, creature comforts (warm beverage, snuggly blanket and a good book). I have a gratitude calendar for the month of November. Best wishes. Enjoy your weekend.
I love being around my grandchildren and watching them interact with each other. I’m going camping with them today and looking forward to that.
I have definitely been trying to notice and be grateful for things lately it’s so important. Just today I’m thankful all the kids seem to be over recent colds, our car is fixed and working again and we’ve had lovely time with family.
I am back. For weeks and weeks I have not been able to get on Inspy. My hubby is working on our network system today and now I can get on!! I’m so happy. Guess that made me smile today.
I don’t write down my graditudes, but when I pray at night, I try to thank God for anything good that happened that day. I’ve always wanted to do a gratitude journal, but I am not disciplined enough even to get started.
I live in Florida, and we really don’t participate in fall. I’m just looking forward to November 30, which is the end of hurricane season!! And, maybe, we’ll get a cool snap, or at least lower humidity and temps in the low 80’s. If I’m really fortunate, I might even get temps in the upper 70’s for the highs!!
Thank you for the reminder. Some days are a lot easier to look at gratitude. I have been smiling at the stray cats who come to visit us for food. It is challenging now that we have to have the doors closed because of the colder weather. I am reminded that the Lord takes care of the sparrows. He is going to take care of the stray cats too. God bless you.
I will exchange the puppy smooches for kitty love. although at times Libby loves me too much when I want to sleep and Henry is currently at the old neighbourhood.
I planted more plants and put some mulch down (more to go) and that makes me happy. I love in 12 weeks I have gone from only a few plants down one side (and most of them are being removed due to being plants that are like weeds) to now having flowing plants that make me feel happy and like its my place. We are in spring which I love although we have had some cooler days and its been blowing a gale (I live top of a hill for the first time ever and the wind howls). But I am grateful for this house that my friend bought so I can live here (I rent). That while I rent its basically mine to do with as I want within reason. but its mine without having someone elses stuff in one or more rooms like the last place.
I am not good at keeping a diary or journal so won’t join you as I know within days I will forget or just not do it.