One Little Word

Have you heard of this concept?  This idea of "One Little Word"?  I discovered this movement early in 2011 when a blogger and artist that I love held a contest, a give-away based on the idea of "One Little Word".  Since then I have heard it mentioned on several blogs as well as on a popular Christian Radio Station.

The idea is that YOU choose One Little Word to guide you through the year.  A word that inspires you, motivates you, leads you through times that are tough or wonderful.  You keep your eyes, mind and heart fixed upon that word and when you need lifting up or reviving, then you focus on YOUR One Little Word.

Lately, I have been thinking a lot about my One Little Word this year, especially with the summer winding down and my return to work just days away.

Celebrate

That's my One Little Word, and a powerful word it is.  I have read about people who have chosen faith-based words/ideas for their One Little Word--faith, hope, pray.  And while I, too believe in and reflect on those words, I felt like "Celebrate" was a fitting word for 2011.  You see, I tend to dwell on the negatives, the what-ifs, the have-nots, could'ves, should'ves, would'ves, and all their cousins and kin.  It is so easy to see the things you are missing or longing for.  But this year, I wanted to help turn that negativity around into celebrating everyday--big things, small things, normally insignificant things, everything. . .

As the summer draws to a close, I am sad to think about losing long days with my babies eating popsicles and swinging beside the chicken coop.  I am quick to focus on the fact that I should have taken more time to clean the house this summer or regret not taking more day-trips to "fun places" with my little loves.  In fact yesterday, I had a little pity party about my lack of me-time this summer--no not for a pedicure, a massage, or a girl's weekend away.  Just a chance to clean the house, get organized and feel human again.  Yet, as I drove alone this morning, sans radio noise and children in the backseat, I thought about all the things I should celebrate about my summer.  I have two wonderfully healthy children that I have been able to spend lots of time with watching them grow and learn and love.  I have been able to make time to exercise (with children in tow) in order to complete several triathlons and inspire others through teaching fitness classes.  I have tended a weedy garden that has provided us with yummy goodness each time we visit the backyard.  I have dusted off my sewing machine, and my sewing skills, to produce some fun and wonderful handmade gifts.  I have gotten a jump start on some Christmas gifts (gasp) that I would otherwise be making in the Eleventh Hour on December 24th.  I have spent valuable time with my husband as we have grown together as parents and partners.

I really could go on and on and on about things I could celebrate this summer--it really has been great--short, but great.  So, I enter into these last few days of rest with a renewed spirit.  A spirit that may not get the floors mopped before Thursday and still has piles of clothes to mend.  However, my spirit is full of love for my children and husband that I have spent quality time with this summer, laughter from our many adventures, and hope for many wonderful summers to come.  I will continue to celebrate these feelings until summer closes it's door and the rush of Fall blows in.

Then, I will find more to celebrate each and everyday--celebrating my many blessings in this wonderful life.  The power of One Little Word is remarkable, isn't it?

What's YOUR One Little Word?  It isn't too late to embrace one. . . .