“When life is sweet, say thank you and celebrate.  When life is bitter, say thank you and grow.” Bittersweet

Chicago author Shauna Niequist is releasing her second book in August and I’m eagerly anticipating it’s arrival at my door–the first book I’ve ever pre-ordered.  Titled “Bittersweet: Thoughts on Change, Grace and Learning the Hard Way”, it comes out in August and I can’t wait.  I had the pleasure of meeting Shauna through participating in a book club for her first book “Cold Tangerines” –a book filled with tons of delicious “me too!” moments–and I’ve followed her writing ever since.  It just makes you feel warm and inspired and heard, even though it’s her words you are reading.  It’s one of my favorite books, the kiind you keep going back to and reading a chapter when you need some sustenance or inspiration.  I highly recommend it.

The above quote from Bittersweet really struck me.  The good stuff–promotions, babies, engagements, good news, holidays–is easy to celebrate because you know that’s what you’re supposed to do.  It feels good and you act accordingly (preferably with champagne and chocolate).  But the bitter, the bitter is always so much more difficult and, at least with me, I always struggle with knowing what to do.  And I rarely feel grateful for it.  But what if I went into it like that quote from Bittersweet–going into everything with gratitude and then action.  Amazing day?  Thanks, let’s get tapas!   Scary and bumpy cab ride home with a guy who smells and listens to bad music?  Thanks, I’ll take the train next time.  Gratefulness, learning, AND growth.  What a concept. 

High Five of the Day:  The Barefoot Contessa Cookbook. I ate my cereal this morning while delving into it and bought the ingredients for Lobster Pot Pie to make tomorrow.  Stay tuned.