tgif + wholehearted giveaway!
Happy TGIF everyone!
One of the great things about doing conference series is meeting new people and spending time with them in different cities throughout the year. This year I was lucky enough to meet Ann Tucker during the Women Healing events that I do for Hazelden. She works for Hazelden and helps organize the conferences.
We started talking about art and Etsy and she told me that she "felts." She just opened up a shop on Etsy and look what she made for the WholeheARTed movement!
Each 13" x 19" pillow is made with repurposed felted wool sweaters, scarves and blankets found while happily exploring thrift shops and tag sales. There are more pieces of Ann's wonderful art at her Etsy shop, The Lavendar Tree.
Ann said, "Half the fun of creating is the hunt for materials! I love taking a pile of felted wool pieces and making something new. Creating is a part of me - and something I have to do - however, the greatest gratification is knowing that my work is enjoyed by others."
All you have to do to win is leave a comment answering the following questions (before Monday):
Who/what are you trusting today?
Who/what are you grateful for today?
Who/what is inspiring you today?
Here's mine:
Today I'm trusting the power of faith and living in the question. I love this quote from Richard Rohr: "We love closure, resolution, and clarity, while thinking we are people of faith! How strange that the very word faith has come to mean its exact opposite."
I'm grateful for my family and the one I became a part of when I married Steve.
I'm STILL inspired by this great video. To choose joy over the fear and vulnerability of being different or weird or ridiculed is a tremendous act of courage - one that touches all of us.
Can't wait to read your comments! I'll announce the winner on Monday afternoon.
Happy TGIF!
07.31.2009 | by Brené Brown | in tgif, wholehearted Share Article Email Article Print Article 75 Comments
Reader Comments (75)
Who/what are you grateful for today?i am grateful the the people in my life who taught me what being brave truly is. special needs adults who smile at me each day, sharing my mornings.
Who/what is inspiring you today?my life.
Who/what are you grateful for today? I am grateful for a great friend and an encouraging message from the universe.
Who/what is inspiring you today? A beautiful day spent in the sea with the sounds of laughter from my little boy as we all jumped through waves.
Have a lovely weekend! :)
TRUST: i am trusting that i made the right decision, seeking a 2nd opinion from both my rheumatologist and my neurologist; and trusting that my "replacement" physicians are the right choices. I sure like their focus.
GRATITUDE: i am grateful to live in a country, and to be in a personal position, where I have the CHOICE of medical care. so many are not so fortunate.
INSPIRATION: any and everyone who MAKES ART. bloggers, photographers, my cousin Enrico Casarosa, who does animation and was recently nominated for the Eisner Award at ComicCon !!!
Cheers, everyone.
I miss our ITIWJM group readings, listenings, and commentings !!! and I cherish the new friends I have made via the readalong.
xo,
Davielle in California
I am trusting that I have the strength and skills to complete a major project on time.
Who/what are you grateful for today?
I am grateful for having so many friends support me through the last two months.
Who/what is inspiring you today?
I am inspired by the positive remarks a coworker always has for everyone. I love that after a dozen kids and 60 or so years that she is still such a positive force in the world.
Gratitude: I am grateful that at 41 years of age I have finally learned how to be an adult in a relationship. I am grateful that I can say, "Hey wait, back the bus up or that really hurt my feelings" and feel comfortable enough to know that a negative response is not the end of the world. I am grateful that I am learning to choose men who are not intimidated or defensive when I share the most vulnerable part of myself.
Inspiration: I am continually inspired by my beautiful 31 year old, pregnant neice. Who three weeks after suffering a hemorraghic stroke walked 150 feet on her own, supported by a quad cane and can hug with both arms again.
Grateful. Today I am grateful to Unity, Lisa, Hari Kirn, and Shakti Gawain, who have together taught me that I create my reality. The power of Creative Visualization and the strength of my spirit.
Inspiration. Today I am inspired by my 6 year old daughter, who finds joy in any possible place. Yesterday she moved through my Yoga moves with such ease, while I was really struggling. I am inspired to make my bones bendy like when I was in Kindergarten.
Grateful: I'm grateful for my space. Last year, I got a nudge to "create space... watch what grows". Since I decluttered, I'm writing again. I've grown 2 blogs & connected with neighbors I never met before because I was gone from 8 to 8 each day.
I'm inspired by Yes! magazine (everything about it)
Grateful. I am grateful for my parents, for teaching me the meaning of marriage, family values, their love, for guiding me to a good life, for showing me how not to be materialistic and mostly for instilling and giving me the gift to always believe in myself!
Inspiring. I am inspired by the ability to have a spiritual life. I felt free and my life changed the moment I started listening with the heart and hearing God’s whispers.
I am trusting myself to say the right things to my adult child who is feeling emotionally very fragile at the moment.
Who/what are you grateful for today?
I am grateful for that same child, as I nearly lost her one year ago (by her own hand).
I'm so grateful for that tiny impulse that caused her to call me before all was lost.
Who/what is inspiring you today?
Today, and every day, I am inspired by all of the talent, creativity, and intelligence I see reflected on the many blogs I read. This is one of the few ways that I really relax...I am typically in the mindset of 'waiting for the other shoe to drop.' I'm inspired by the thought that SOMEday, my daughter will have peace (which means I will have peace), and then, I, too, can blog, create, or make some sort of contribution that would be meaningful to others. Most of all I'm inspired by my daughter's struggle to keep on an even keel when she has so many cards stacked against her. She is truly the most brave and courageous person I know.
Who/what are you grateful for today? One of my dearest friends died this week. As we gathered to mourn, another dear friend hugged me and reminded me that we had been introduced by our deceased friend. Even in her death, we remember good things. I'm grateful to have sweet memories and good friendships that formed around our beloved friend.
Who/what is inspiring you today? Mrs. Fields cookie dough, which I made a batch of weeks ago, froze into balls, and today placed some on a cookie sheet to thaw and bake. I'm inspired to keep working this afternoon, knowing that a sweet treat awaits for dessert later. Well, and eating one of those cookies raw makes the wait more bearable.
I am grateful for my children and the joy they bring to my life.
I am inspired by you, Brene' Brown. I have only begun this journey of shame and have only been able to do so from this blog, your podcast and your book. The journey only began 2 months ago but already I have been able to share my shame (The Full Monty of Shame) with another. I would never have faced this shame and then ultimately have dealt with it without your words of inspiration.
As I continue to change I am certain that the shame (which will never ever be gone 100%) that drives the change will get smaller and smaller. Sort of like a 8.5 x 11 piece of paper that folded once, then again and again and yet again - eventually I won't be able to fold it anymore, my fingers will be unable to hold it to fold it even smaller. It will exist but in a more managable size. Thank you
I'm grateful that I've had enough difficulties in the journey to appreciate all the positive things that are around me.
I'm inspired by the beauty of nature.
Who/what are you grateful for today? My friends who provide laughter in my life.
Who/what is inspiring you today? The women I serve.
I am grateful for music. Last night a bunch of us just jammed to one-hit-wonders from the states and sang for our 70-year-old Argentine host mother. It has the power to connect people and bring spontaneous joy.
I am inspired by seeing the first statue of Mother Teresa IN A CHURCH!!! It was at the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de Pilar here in Buenos Aires. It was just such a powerful experience to see someone from my lifetime honored in such a traditional way.
Grateful: I am grateful for my husband's understanding at the moment and that he and my daughter will be here for me whatever happens.
Inspired: I am inspired by my friend who has developed a right old go and get it attitude over the past few months. It is wonderful to see how she is turning from a caterpillar into a wonderful butterfly. It was always there, but now it's coming out for everyone to see.
I am trusting that all will be provided to me when I need it. I am grateful for the sunshine and my life today. I am inspired by real people living very real and very simple lives.
Trusting: my instincts
Grateful: for (somehow by a miracle) forgotten chocolate-covered pretzels that are found in the middle of a "I-need-something-both-sweet-and-salty" craving
Inspired: by people who work hard for something they believe in
Thanks for that awesome video! I absolutly loved it!!! So much that I sent it to my BFF who is getting married next August...really hoping she loves it as much as I do and we can do something similar....
Also love those pillows! So cute!
Have a great weekend, everyone!
PS JKK...Never heard of Yes! magazine , but I am going to check it out. I am a magazine junkie...can't wait :)
Today I am trusting that my husband and I will not hate each other through all the renovations we are doing. :)
Today I am grateful for little boys who wear their wonder on their faces and in their voices as they literally see the world for the first time.
And I am inspired by .... that Richard Rohr quote! AND organizing. Somehow finding new places for things can really get the juices rolling.
Who/what are you grateful for today? I am grateful for Stella, the little kitten who was just attacking my feet; I'm grateful for Fridays and knowing that the weekend is full of sweet family fun; I am grateful that I stumbled across this blog today! How inspiring!
Who/what is inspiring me today? I am inspired by Christine Kane's new CD, the hummingbird that just peeked in my window, and by all of the beautiful people I have found today on a chain of twitter/blog explorations...
I am grateful for my beautiful 4yo daughter who played in the rain with me today.
I am inspired by all the stories trickling down from blogher, and know that I will join them one day.
Today I am so grateful we had no committments to be anywhere. Hanging out in jammies all day long with my children. Doing pretty much nothing of any importance except laundry.
Today I am inspired by this quote by Henry David Thoreau:
"We must walk consciously only part way toward our goal, and then leap in the dark to our success."
Those pillows are delicous!
Who/what are you trusting today? Am having surgery on Monday, and trusting my surgeon.
Who/what are you grateful for today? I am grateful for time: to think, read, and speak with my friends.
Who/what is inspiring you today? A book I'm reading by poet Kathleen Norris: Acedia and Me.
Today I'm trusting the path i'm on...trusting that i can embrace the uncertainty and trust in the process.
I am grateful for my support system...for being able to verbalise my feelings, for having friends that listen to me without judging anything i say...so grateful for sounding boards.
I'm inspired by HOPE. By creativity. I'm inspired by my own creative ideas...and how that expand! :0) xx
I am grateful for finding so many empty parking spaces, just when I needed them this week, and I am inspired by my friends, who remind me to have fun even when there's work to do!
My mom because she's always there for me.
Who/what are you grateful for today?
The chance to be part of a Psych conference call. I love that show.
Who/what is inspiring you today?
Inspiring me? I'm not to sure...I guess the world around me and the music I'm listening too.
-Lauren
I'm grateful for the sense I've always had of knowing what it is that I want to do. Despite the many years of doing just about everything else but art, I've always known that I would journey back into art and creativity and somehow find a way to be doing what I love. I'm so thankful to be making small (but important!) first steps on the path towards this.
I'm inspired by the motivation, commitment and seemingly boundless energy of my amazing partner, who has maintained a blissful sense of calm throughout the madness of this busy week (and who picked just the right moment to remind me that everything is going to be ok).
Today I'm trusting slowing down, being still, being present.
I'm grateful for preparing for the Mondo Beyondo e-course and realizing how many dreams have already come true in my life. I really have it good!
I'm inspired by all the possibilities...
Who/what are you grateful for today? A house full of out of town family visiting this weekend.
Who/what is inspiring you today? My son always inspires me. He has overcome many obstacles in the last 3 years and I am so proud of him.
I am trusting myself and my truth today.
I am grateful for my friend, V being there to support me through something difficult I had to do.
I am inspired by a friend who has unconditional love for me after many years apart.
I am <strong>grateful</strong> for the living poetry of friendship.
I am continually <strong>inspired</strong> by the energy that vibrates through the artists that I encounter in my daily walk through life.
GRATEFUL: for this blog to bring in sunlight of other lives, other ways of thinking, acting, reacting, and being. Thank you, Brene.
INSPIRED: by my local public library... full of so many delightful books. I always feel rich when I can read and select books.
I am grateful for my family and all the love I receive from them.
I am inspired by nature...from the ocean to the mountains and all the beauty that it contains. It is what feeds my soul, clears my head and sparks my imagination and creativity.
I am grateful for extended family offering me shelter in their homes while ours is under construction.
I am inspired by-blogs written by women who have the courage to take risks and truly believe that those risks will land them in a place where nothing but goodwill will come thier way.
Who/what are you grateful for today? I am grateful for the gift of lifelong friends who know and hold my precious history - and I theirs...:)
Who/what is inspiring you today? Color! Juicy color is inspiring me!! The pillows are a direct reflection of that!
Thanks Brene...
I am grateful that I have such a wonderful relationship with my 17 year old daughter. That she text me to tell me how funny the play she is watching is and when it is over, the ful details. That she is always considerate in calling to tell me where she is and is always on time for her curfew. I am grateful to hear her voice when she walks in that says, "Mom, I'm home. I love you."
I am inspired by my young friends who are beginning their first year as teachers. Their love for children, excitement in preparation of their classrooms and lesson plans to make a difference in the lives of young children. As I begin my 24th year as an educator, I am inspired by young educators who share my passion.
grateful? for great fun with my boys today
inspired? by music. music. and more music.
My partner as a parent and an old friend.
Who/what are you grateful for today?
The wedding party we passed on our hike.
Surviving lightening storms at 11,000 feet.
Who/what is inspiring you today?
The view of lightening, moving clouds, hail and flowers at 11,000 feet.
I am trusting that I will be okay no matter what happens in future. And that I have chosen the right path by choosing to be authentic and honest about my struggles and my pain.
Who/what are you grateful for today?
I am grateful for finding this small moment of peace at home to read this column and put down my thoughts in the midst of everything else going on in my life.
Who/what is inspiring you today?
My Grand ma, her struggles and her love for life is so inspiring to me. Even when she is bed ridden and cannot move, she still wants to get up and sit and stand up and keeps praying to God for health. In all this struggle I hope to remain grateful for the good health and the love that I have found in my life.
I am grateful to have finally reconnected (after 18 years) with one of my best girlfriends...she reminds me of the little girl I used to be and the woman I've become. She is an amazing woman!
I am inspired by others to truly make my health a priority...now!
Brene- Thanks as always for the reminder to take a moment to breath, contemplate and appreciate! ;-)
I trust my husband with all the big things (not so much with how high to hang the drapes or what color to paint the walls.
I am grateful for all my many, many blessings.
I am inspired by my siblings who know how to work hard yet love to play, too.
Today I am trusting that I will have a grace-filled last week of clinical service. This third week is always a little tough, and it's my hope to make it look effortless.
Today I am grateful for my wonderful friends. I've realized more than once during the last week that I'm surrounded by angels. Sometimes they're angels with dirty feet or crooked wings, but angels nonetheless.
Today I am inspired by the family of a patient who left us last weekend. The strength of their faith and love was (and is) a striking example, and I'm honored to have been able to witness who they are.
I am grateful for my husband giving me some alone time tonight. After making dinner and sending my oldest son off to a movie with friends, I went to run a few errands. To the ordinary person, this is no big deal. But to me, a trip to Target all alon... this is a very BIG DEAL!! There I was spit up and breastmilk stains on my shirt, messy pony tail and little make up, wandering the aisles of Target. I even tried on a couple of new shirts. Josh asked me if I had gotten lost. I did a little. And I loved it.
I am inspired by the renewed hope that I have in the future. I am feeling capable of great things these days and I can't wait to see where this energy takes me.
Who/what are you grateful for today? I am grateful for those who find ways to express thoughts and feelings that I struggle to formulate in my own mind but that I feel in my heart.
Who/what is inspiring you today? I am inspired by youth and the renewing feeling that conversing with old friends about happy memories can bring.
I'm grateful for the opportunity to connect with likeminded people.
I'm inspired by the so many wonderful connections on the net.
I am trusting that I made the right decision to move to SC to get hubby a transplant!!
I am grateful that I can spend time being creative!
I am inspsired by the other fabulous artists in my life!
Who/what are you grateful for today?: I'm grateful for my family. Both the immediate and the expanded. With the possibility of loosing an aunt I'm really trying to hold those I love near to me.
Who/what is inspiring you today?
Actually the blog-o-sphere. I've been visiting and have found so many inspiring, insightful and fun posts today. It's given me a lot of get up and go
which is what I'm goin to do now!
Thanks for your site!
I'm grateful for the time off work to concentration on creating some art and my new website, and I'm also grateful for an angel of a web designer who's helping me.
I'm inspired by so many incredible people creating beautiful spaces online.
I am grateful for our small family as my husband, my son, and brother-in-law are creating a wonderful bond. It is amazing how death and funeral services create this.
I am inspired by the country air and beautiful rain this part of Canada's is receiving, everything is so fresh and green.
Who/what are you trusting today? I'm trusting the power of intention. I used to start my day by picturing how it would play out before I ever got out of bed. Somehow I got away from that, but I've been enjoying a return to that practice.
Who/what are you grateful for today? Sunshine and lovely (to me) temperatures in the 70s.
Who/what is inspiring you today? Chookaloonks' (Karen Walrond) monthly newsletter in my e-mail this morning. Fun links and beautiful photography to explore.