It’s a beautiful day and I have just received yet another delightful book recommendation. This time the author is Ann Voskamp. Ann wrote One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are. In her book Ann strives to find the meaning of life, and in her life she endeavours to live with grace.

She writes, ‘One Thousand Gifts is a celebration of grace and a recognition of the power of gratitude. Here’s the link.

Some of my beliefs may be different to Ann’s but I am an advocate for learning from everyone, whoever they are and whatever they think.

As well as learning from others, I also believe that we can change. My life, emotions, thoughts, plans, ideas, morals and some of my personality changed when I suffered a heart-wrenching bereavement in my twenties. With my emotions out of control, I ran away (against my counsellor’s advice) and embarked on a remarkable journey. Of Foreign Build is not just about sailing around the world on a thirty-three foot boat, but about how I changed in so many different ways – and how I learned about who I am.

The ‘positive thoughts’ process is changing me again. It is all for the good and I am enjoying it immensely, so here’s today’s three thoughts:

1. Noel, my husband, is my best friend and protects my sanity by reminding me to live with grace. He keeps me grounded as I often have at least six crazy ‘ideas’ a day!

2. In view of Ann’s book, I am determined to live my life now. Not just travel and do what I dream of doing, but enjoy THIS moment and stop thinking about the NEXT adventure.

1. . . . . .  and a change of tack . . .  yesterday we visited the amazing Citadel in Besancon. The Museum of the Resistance and Deportation broke my heart. The display (on two floors) was impressive. However, I can’t believe I am part of a race that can carry out such atrocities. My positive? I am living in a peaceful time in history and I know that most of my fellow humans strive for peace.

So, my big decision? I am going to carry on with the positive thoughts. Once a week I will highlight some positives in my life and post them here, I hope you’ll join me.

And, once again, I nominate anyone who would like to take part in this ‘positive thoughts’ 5-day event.