When Things Don't Go Your Way

What do you do?

Several weeks ago, I took a big risk.  Sadly, it did not pay off.

It took me several weeks and several drafts before I can even blog about it.

Now, I'm glad I took the time before I hit "Publish," because it gave me time to put things in perspective.  When we don't get what we want, when we fail at something, when things don't go the way we planned, it's natural to feel sad, disappointed, devastated, and discouraged.  But after the initial shock had worn off, we still need to figure out what to do next, how to pick up the pieces and move on.  I think that was the hardest part for me -- getting up after I've been knocked down.

So I took stock of my blessings:
1.  My family -- my husband and my son, my parents, sisters, and in-laws, who love me unconditionally and support me fully

2.  My work, which is fulfilling, despite being a great source of stress; for being a source of financial security for me and my family, and for being my excuse allowing me to have my papercrafting/scrapbooking/cardmaking/hobby-baking hobby

3.  My hobby, and this blog, which are sources of joy and calm when things are swirling out of control; for the quiet time I get when indulging in my creative pursuits that lets take a step back and evaluate what really matters

4.  My readers, who view and read my blog to see what I've shared.  I hope what I share and what I create gives you inspiration.  Please know that you inspire me to blog, and to keep creating (every chance I can).

And I realized that I have all that I need to try again, to take more risks, the same risks, different risks, to face challenges, and to overcome them.

I'm writing this post and sharing this, first for myself, because I know that there will be many, many more times in the future when things will not go the way I planned, and I need to remember all these so I can get up and try again.  I am also sharing this to maybe inspire someone who is trying to overcome a hurdle that life threw their way.

I don't know if you can tell from the picture below, but the card stock has this beautiful sheen to it.  It makes a very pretty card.  Making this card definitely lifted my spirits, and I hope that whoever receives this card will feel the same way.

And lastly, the sentiment, which I felt was very appropriate:

I really don't know what the "end" is for me and my "risk," but I am hopeful that everything will work out for the best for me and my family.

Thank you all for looking, and I hope you have an encouraging day!