8×10 print of original on wood. $25.00

The print above reads: The most precious gift we can offer others is our presence. when mindfulness embraces those we love, they will bloom like flowers.

As the holiday season quickly approaches.  I know that the calendar for the next few months looks, well, um… crazy Busy!!  I’m tired just thinking about it. Not to mention the shopping, gift giving, meals to cook, parties to throw, work parties, staff events, Holiday shows and boutiques and back orders.  Whew! I’m out of breath.

Every Holiday season is like that for everyone……, It’s also my favorite time, so I want to be very deliberate about my time with my family and friends. I’m also trying to plan quiet time for my peace of mind and creativity. (we’ll see how that goes :))

 As I dive into the giving season, I was really wanting to do something with meaning, create something special ..for those close to me… I’m not sure yet what I will do, i will figure it out.  But I do know one thing I can give… something I consider oh so valuable, and that is my time.

So I put a quick list together of how I can show someone I love and care for them, without spending a dime and I thought I would share it with you.

1. Be the one to call and make a date.  Make it a special time, a special restaurant, a cup of tea with a beautifully set table. A hand written note, something to let this person know that this time is special and they are loved.

2. Ask and Listen.  Some times we need to just zip it and listen. Give advice when asked, but otherwise truly listen to their story, offer empathy, praise or laughter. Sometimes just a listening ear speaks volumes to show the other person how much you care.

3. Be present.  Have you every tried to have a conversation with someone who is not tuned into you. They are distracted, looking at other people or their phone. There is nothing more that says this time is not important, than not being present and distracted. Be fully present.

4. Allow your time with your loved one to be a safe place where they can be themselves. (and you)  There is a beautiful connection that happens when we are allow others to be vulnerable.

5. Have an attitude of gratitude. Be grateful for this time with your loved one. Don’t look at it as another thing that gets checked off your list, because people can tell if you’re not genuine. Be grateful and have a positive outlook. Beautiful encouragement and support comes from that place in ourselves that feels gratitude for our lives and all that we have.

So there you have it.  My little list for myself, for this beautiful season of giving and receiving.

I hope that these next two months find you with a grateful heart.

Always know that I hold a sacred and safe place for you if you ever need to be vulnerable. You can email me at shawnpetiteinc@gmail.com

Big Smile=Shawn