I just won the lottery!!!

I can hardly contain my joy—it feels like I've hit the big Powerball jackpot! Being in Northern Minnesota is my happy place and it helps me to sink into the experience of living in the present moment. For me, living in the present moment is about tapping into three powerful emotions: joy, gratitude, and serenity. When I tap into these emotions it feels like I hit the lucky lotto numbers every day. 

1. Joy: Embracing the Beauty of Each Moment

For me, living in the present moment is an invitation to embrace the beauty that surrounds me. I am pretty lucky that I am currently in one of the most beautiful places on earth, so this week it is a little easier to find joy in the simplest things—an kiddo’s laughter, a big bear hug from someone you love, or the lake water cooling my feet on a hot summer day. When I let go of distractions and immerse myself fully in the present, joy becomes my constant companion. Each moment becomes an opportunity to celebrate life's little wonders and experience a deep, heartwarming happiness that fills me from within.

2. Gratitude: Unveiling the Abundance in Everyday Life

Living in the present moment has opened my eyes to the incredible abundance that exists in my life. It's about pausing to appreciate the blessings that often go unnoticed—a cabin on a lake, the taste of my mamma’s home-cooked German potato salad, or the support of friends and family. Gratitude becomes a daily practice, a way of counting my blessings and recognizing the richness that surrounds me. When I cultivate gratitude in the present moment, my heart overflows with thankfulness, and I feel a profound sense of contentment and fulfillment.

3. Serenity: Finding Peace Amidst Life's Ups and Downs

Sometimes life gets a little chaotic and I have to lean into something small that can anchor me back to neutral. It's a practice where I can retreat and reconnect with my inner self. When I anchor myself in the now, worries about the past and anxieties about the future lose their power. I find solace in the gentle rhythm of deep breaths, the stillness of nature, or the quiet moments of reflection or meditation. Serenity becomes my refuge, allowing me to navigate life's challenges with a sense of calm and grace. It's in the present moment that I find the strength to face any storm that comes my way.

Living in the present moment has become my personal jackpot, my own “winner, winner chicken dinner” - a source of profound joy, gratitude, and serenity. It's about savoring the beauty of each moment, recognizing the abundance in my life, and finding inner peace amidst life's ups and downs. Embracing the present has transformed my perspective, allowing me to experience the richness of everyday experiences and connect with the deeper essence of who I am. 

I encourage you to do your best to anchor yourself in the present moment if you are living your life a step ahead or a step behind. Find the courage to walk the path of life in unison one step at a time. Try to embrace the power of the present moment this week. 

Love and light my friends!

Kara