In the hopes of reaching the moon men fail to see the flowers that blossom at their feet. Albert Schweitzer

Often we become so focused on reaching our goals, that we forget to enjoy the journey. Guard against becoming so single minded that your goals and dreams take over your life and prevent you from experiencing what life has to offer along the way. Although it is necessary to keep you eyes on your goal and work steadfastly in the direction of your dreams, life is meant to be lived.

Take time today to enjoy the people and things around you and appreciate them for the joy they bring.

Today, I am grateful for the new fallen snow that envelops my world in white, for the soft glow of sunrise as the sun's rays try to penetrate the clouds, and for the mighty trees laden with snow. I am grateful for the muffled sounds of cars in the distance, for the quiet that descends when snow encases the world, and for a warm cozy home that protects me from the storm.

I am grateful for opportunities that come my way, for hope of a bright future, and for family to share my journey. I am grateful for my flower garden as it settles down for a long winter's rest, for the nearest of Christmas, and twinkling lights to light the storm.

I am grateful for healthy food to fuel the body, for hot coffee to warm to warm the soul, and for the fragrance of fresh-baked bread. I am grateful for lavender whose fragrance lulls me to sleep, for the scent of citrus to invigorate and inspire, and delicate roses that hold summer in their scent.

I am grateful for eyes to see, ears to hear, and a heart to feel.

And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you take the time to see the flowers at your feet as your strive to reach the moon as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.