It’s kind of crazy to think that it’s Thanksgiving again. I feel like 2019 has absolutely FLOWN by. This year has been busy, hectic, and stressful. It’s also been a year of personal growth, professional success, strong friendships, love and so much more.
It’s very easy to spend the year getting caught up in all the difficult and stressful parts of life. But as the holiday season rolls around, I always like to stop and show some gratitude for all the blessings in my life.
There’s something about physically writing down the things I’m grateful for that makes me recognize and appreciate them so much more. Head to this post for last year’s Thanksgiving gratitude.
And read on for all the things I’m grateful for this year.
Xx, Kelsey
THANKSGIVING IN THE US
This is the first year that Jon and I will be in the United States for Thanksgiving since we moved to the Netherlands. I’m so excited to be back around all the traditions. The past two years we’ve had to work, and it just wasn’t the same. I was never a big Thanksgiving girl, but I couldn’t be more grateful for the holiday this year.
FAMILY (and the things that connect us)
This year, my family is all across the globe. My parents moved to Australia, Jon and I live in the Netherlands, my siblings and extended family are in the US (for now), and Jon’s family is there as well. I’m so grateful for the things that connect us – yes, I’m talking about our phones, Instagram, and travel. And I’m grateful for my family’s support all year round.
A HEALTHY BODY
I started 2019 teaching spin 5+ times a week and am ending the year on a new journey to find the right fitness routine for me. While I was teaching spin, I slipped and injured my ankle, which forced me to take time off from working out and learn to be still. During that time, I learned to be grateful for my ankles. And for a body that works 99% of the time. For the ability to walk, take spin classes, ice skate. There are so many people who for one reason or another aren’t able to do the things I can. I’m grateful for the ability to be active and am making it my intention to take good care of my body.
A BLOSSOMING CAREER
This year has been a huge one in terms of professional growth. At the beginning of the year I took on a nearly full-time role with Bloomeffects. And in just the past few months, launched the brand. I’ve learned so much about marketing, the beauty industry, retail, the list goes on. I’ve also learned so much about myself and my abilities. In particular, I’m happy to have found areas of strength and areas of growth. I can’t wait to see where things go in 2020.
FRIENDSHIPS ACROSS THE GLOBE
The beautiful thing about amazing friendships is their ability to transcend time and space. I have the most wonderful friends all across the globe. Sometimes we aren’t able to catch up regularly or see each other. But I always know that we can pick up where we left off whenever we want. And that they’ll always be there for me in times of need.
A CREATIVE PLACE
I’m forever grateful to have the space on kelseyybarnes.com to express myself and create. This blog has been my safe space to talk about the things I love – fashion, beauty, life in Amsterdam – and to talk about the real life things I’m struggling with. I’m grateful to each and every one of you who read my posts – whether you read every one or this is your first. Thank you for sharing in this space. I can’t wait to bring you more next year.
AND A FEW ADDITIONAL THINGS I’M GRATEFUL FOR:
- Brands like Sezane and Vero Moda who have believed in me and helped me in my journey to share my style with you
- Cozy sweaters to snuggle in all winter long
- The trip to Australia that will keep me warm this holiday season
- Red wine and popcorn
- The ability to return to NYC every few weeks
- Healthy meals full of lots of kale
- Every purchase made through affiliate links that helps me keep this blog running
- My favorite outfit of the moment of midi skirts and knee high boots
