Hello, dear readers! It’s Susie here from Susie in the Black. Today, I want to share some heartfelt ways to embrace gratitude. Gratitude is a powerful practice that can bring more joy, positivity, and resilience into our lives.

I know it is crazy to think about, but… summer is almost over! I feel like school just ended yesterday, and we are already preparing for the next year!! 📚Summer may be leaving us, but the memories will last forever. I encourage you all to soak up every moment from now until school starts- it will all be over in the blink of an eye!🩷🩵

I would like to highlight one special word in this blog post and that is gratitude. Recently, my mother had her 90th birthday and it was a gentle reminder to myself to stay grateful for everything I have and every moment I get to spend with friends and family. ✨Taking a moment to reflect upon the amazing things life has given you helps to ground yourself and flush out any negative thoughts. Some of you may have seen this adorable video I posted on our Instagram and Facebook, but I just have to share it again! You can just see the pure joy on our faces while we celebrate a spectacular milestone for my mom- 90! 🪩💖🎉

Whether you’re a busy parent, a dedicated professional, or someone who just loves a good BBQ, these tips will help you cultivate gratitude in your everyday moments. Let's dive in!

1. Start a Gratitude Journal

Keeping a gratitude journal is a wonderful way to focus on the positives in your life. Every evening, write down three things you’re thankful for. It could be anything from a delicious meal to a kind gesture from a friend.

2. Express Appreciation

Make it a habit to express your gratitude to others. Whether it’s a heartfelt thank you note, a quick text, or a verbal acknowledgment, letting people know you appreciate them strengthens relationships and spreads positivity. Of course we think a fabulous gift bundle from BAM is the best way to express appreciation, 😉😂🤗.

3. Create Gratitude Rituals

Incorporate gratitude into your daily routine with small rituals. For instance, take a moment before meals to appreciate the food you’re about to eat. Our Nora Fleming serveware at bbQ & More can turn any meal into a special occasion, making it easier to pause and give thanks.

4. Celebrate the Small Wins

Don’t wait for major achievements to celebrate. Recognize and appreciate the small victories and moments of joy in your day. For example, did you finally perfect that new recipe you found on our website? Celebrate with a delicious meal using our gourmet ingredients and serveware.

5. Focus on the Positive

Train your brain to look for the positive aspects of situations, even in challenging times. Instead of dwelling on what went wrong, try to find at least one thing that went right or one lesson learned. You can use our Nora Fleming memo board and scallop mini from bbQ & More to write down your daily inspirations and positive thoughts.

6. Volunteer and Give Back

Helping others is a powerful way to cultivate gratitude. Volunteering your time or resources to those in need can remind you of your own blessings and increase your appreciation for what you have. Consider joining us at bbQ & More for our community events and charity drives—we love giving back together!

7. Reflect on Challenges

Reflecting on past challenges and how you overcame them can foster gratitude for your growth and resilience. Recognize the strength you’ve gained and the lessons you’ve learned, and be grateful for your journey. Our inspirational blog posts on Susie in the Black are full of stories and tips that can help you see the silver linings in your own life.

Embracing gratitude is a practice that can transform your life, bringing more joy, contentment, and connection. By incorporating these tips and tricks into your daily routine, you’ll find that gratitude becomes a natural and enriching part of your life.

Some of you may have seen this adorable video I posted on our Instagram and Facebook, but I just have to share it again! You can just see the pure joy on our faces while we celebrate a spectacular milestone for my mom- 90! 🪩💖🎉

I also adore how this video shows some of my products that I carry at BAM! Her gorgeous cake is served on the Nora Fleming NEW Melamine Round Serving Platter with the NEW Tall Melamine Riser. It is a wonderful way to add height to a tablescape, and in this circumstance, it worked beautifully to give my mom her birthday cake! 🎂 The beauty of Nora Fleming is how you just need one serving platter for every occasion. If you are unfamiliar with Nora, you just pick one of your favorite serving pieces and you can buy additional “Mini’s” to decorate the platters for every holiday, season, and every other occasion. I used a gorgeous pink butterfly 🦋 for my mom’s cake stand, and I will use an adorable Santa Hat🎅🏼to dress this platter up for Christmas time. Shop all of our Nora Fleming Here!

I am also SO grateful for all of YOU!🩷 I truly have the best customers, and I say that every single day. You guys keep me busy- and I love it! I enjoy coming to the store and meeting with all of you. I get to make everyone’s life a little bit easier with a fabulous gift, and I am so, very grateful for each and every one of you. THANK YOU!! 💖🙌🏻🥰

How do you practice gratitude in your daily life? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below. Let’s inspire each other to live more grateful lives!

With a grateful heart,

Susie