What the crazy year 2021 has been. Congratulations to you for making it this far!

As we approach the end of the year, I just wanted to pause for a moment to focus on something so important. Gratitude. 

Yes, gratitude is a frequent theme during November, and for a good reason. Thanksgiving month offers us a natural time to pause and reflect on all that is truly good in our world – individually and collectively. 

I've always been disappointed that Thanksgiving feels like a cultural speedbump on the way to Christmas. I don't think it should be that way. I prefer to dwell more deeply on it and take more time to celebrate before rushing past it to the "bigger" holiday. 

Do you feel that way too?

In any case, I'm convinced that the importance of practicing gratitude cannot be overemphasized. In an age where it can seem like every waking moment is occupied with something – whether significant or trivial – hitting the pause button becomes so much more important. 

I have to ask – for what or whom are you grateful?

Three things for which I am grateful  

I wouldn't ask you a question I am not prepared to answer for myself, so let me share a few things that top my "gratitude" list with you.

• My family. This feels obligatory, but that doesn't take away from the truth of it. My kids and family are my why. They are the reason I get up each morning and do what I do. 
• My friends. The people I get to do life with add community, laughter and joy to my everyday life. They are a gift.
• My "job." I put "job" in quotes because it doesn't feel like a job. It seems more like a mission. The fact that I get to make beautiful bags and accessories from sustainable products that supply intentional women with what they need to carry their goods -- brings me more joy and fulfillment than a regular job ever could.

Speaking of sustainable products and things for which I am grateful, I am pleased to announce the debut of a new item in the Carry Courage lineup: 

The GIVER card wristlet!

This clutch bag is crafted to represent the spirit of generosity and heart behind what it truly means to share our gifts with the world. When you don't want to carry a full bag, GIVER offers all you need to bring your essentials. This eco-friendly wristlet is created with three color options of renewable and sustainable cork fabric. 

Have a peek at it in terra cotta, rain, or natural.

Balancing gratitude and deadlines 

Even as we slow down and bask in gratitude this month, the fast-moving calendar necessitates shopping deadlines for the upcoming Christmas and holiday season. 

As a local artisan in Portland, Oregon producing handmade bags with love (and sustainable cork fabric, of course!), I have to keep it real with you and remind you of our holiday shipping deadline. 

Monday, December 20, is the last day to ship out to arrive in time for Christmas. This means orders should be placed about a week before! To ensure that we have enough time to make your order, we appreciate you putting it by Monday, December 13. 

Wrapping up our theme of gratitude with a bow

There are so many things for which to be grateful. I hope to take some time to identify what those are in your life. I've found that focusing on those things makes the not-so-wonderful things in life fade to the back burner. 

I'd love it if you'd share something on your gratitude list in the comments! It is fun to see what other people appreciate. 

Meanwhile, Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!