As we move deeper into this season of gratitude, I’m reminded that Thanksgiving is just a few days away. Autumn has a way of slowing our pace and inviting us to reflect on what truly matters. This time of year isn’t just about a holiday meal or a date on the calendar; it’s about opening our hearts and being thankful for the people and accomplishments that have shaped our lives. It’s also a perfect time to prioritize self care and rest by taking walks, savoring coffee, or simply sitting quietly for a few minutes to breathe can bring clarity and calm during a busy season.

I am thankful for my mistakes, my self-inflicted punishments, my surprise accomplishments, the joy of watching a sunrise, and the stars that light my night sky. I’m grateful for my ability to forgive, my love of nature, my curious mind, and my fearlessness in testing new waters and exploring the unknown. I cherish my home, my love of art and beauty, my plants, my fierceness as an empowered and enlightened woman, my lack of jealousy, and my sincere joy for others. And as we reflect, it’s important to nourish these parts of ourselves with intentional self care.

I’m thankful for my treadmill, my optimism, my assistant, Elena, the caregivers who assist me in the care of my  ultimate concierge, my hairdresser, Collette, my admiration for women of all ages, the joy of giving back, my health,  my education, the ZOA for prolonging me with a most worthwhile purpose, my parents, my grandmothers, my aunts, my children, my grandchildren, my friends, other loved ones, and everyone who has ever touched my life and made my heart sing. 💛

But above all, my greatest source of gratitude is my Ultimate Concierge. His love, devotion, and steady presence have shaped the woman I am today. As I reflect on what truly matters, I’m reminded that material possessions offer only fleeting pleasure, they are not what fills my soul. My deepest joy comes from the life we’ve built together. Though he worked tirelessly to provide us with a beautiful lifestyle, I would be perfectly content with far less, so long as I have him by my side. He will always be all around me.

My Ultimate Concierge

From the moment our paths crossed, I knew the stars had aligned. I believe in fate, and meeting my Ultimate Concierge remains one of the greatest gifts I’ve ever been given. For 35 years, his love has carried me through life’s highs and lows, making even the hardest days softer and the sweetest moments richer.

Sheldon F. Good is the kindest person I know. Without ever trying, he has earned my trust, my respect, my gratitude, and the deepest love my heart has ever held. He is my protector, my teacher, my lover, and my everything. He adores me, and I adore him, and that mutual devotion is the blessing I treasure most.

In the first year of our marriage, on his birthday, I tried to capture my feelings for him in a poem. It was early morning in our condo in the sky on the 71st floor, sunlight streaming in, when the words just poured out of me. In ten minutes, I had written my heart onto the page. I framed it in a Tiffany frame and gave it to him as his birthday gift. That poem still sits in its place of honor in our den. To this day, he calls it his favorite birthday present. And I will never forget the smile it brought to his face…

Shelly…

He’s Perfect He’s Exciting He’s Charming He’s Kind He’s Giving He’s Funny He’s Loving He’s Mine!

He’s Macho He’s Clever He’s Caring He’s Sharing He’s Thoughtful He’s Patient He’s Friendly He’s Daring

He’s Running He’s Talking He’s Doing He’s Reading He’s Working He’s Busy He’s Planning He’s Leading!

He’s Thinking He’s Moving He’s Golfing He’s Pacing He’s Dialing He’s Calling He’s Fiddling He’s Racing!

He’s Husband He’s Father He’s Papa He’s Son He’s Brother He’s Friend He’s CEO He’s Fun!

Life is never boring We’re always on the go Shelly, “Your my best friend” And the nicest person I know!

Happy 60th.

……. Suzi 6/4/93

Thankful for Catching Love

To give and receive love is the very heartbeat of a meaningful life. When we open ourselves to new opportunities for connection, gratitude, and tenderness, we grow, often in ways we never expected. Love asks us to stay receptive, to allow kindness to touch us, and to recognize the profound effect it can have on our spirit. One of the most loving acts you can give yourself is learning when to pause. Self care is the foundation on which all other love grows.

At times, the generosity of others may feel overwhelming, but that is the beauty of love: it softens us, humbles us, and teaches us. And when we show love through our own actions, big or small, we inspire others to do the same. A charmed life is not built on perfection or ease; it is built on the courage to love and to see the world through different lenses. Embracing other perspectives deepens our understanding and strengthens our ability to move through life with grace. This, darling, is how you begin to catch love.

Find Positivity

I know there are multiple demands from others placed on us; some negative. This happens within our families, the workplace, our friendships, and in conversations with strangers and acquaintances such as waiters, clerks, doctors, lawyers, teachers, cab drivers, and a mirage of others. Finding positivity in these interactions can lead to greater happiness, as appreciating emotional well-being and life’s positive experiences helps us cultivate a more fulfilling life. Protecting your energy and personal self care is also essential by setting gentle boundaries, taking screen breaks, or choosing one “no” for every three “yeses” can help maintain your inner peace.

Practicing generosity is also a powerful way to foster positivity in our relationships, as expressing heartfelt gratitude and recognizing acts of kindness strengthens our connections with others. This means that each of us has to look inside ourselves and work to create our own destiny and fill it with love. That is how you catch love.

Pursue Positive People

You have to pursue people who support your feelings while disentangling yourself from those that bring you down. Building and maintaining positive relationships takes real effort, and it’s important to genuinely appreciate those who offer you support. You have to engage in groups that bring you joy and be willing to offer a helping hand to others as part of catching love. You have to leave a job because you don’t feel appreciated, you have to have a heart-to-heart with someone in your family, and you have to delete those people and things from your life that irritate, exasperate and feed your soul with negativity. You have the ability to reward yourself with love. That is how one catches love.

Remember, curating your circle is one of the greatest acts of self care. Surround yourself with people who nourish your spirit, not those who deplete it.

Find Lessons in Your Journey

Use your wisdom, and what you have learned as a woman over 50, and start where you are to get your life exactly where you want it to be. Remember, pain can be a powerful teacher, helping you grow stronger and build resilience along your journey. Approach your mistakes and pain with grace, showing yourself genuine humility and compassion as you learn and move forward. It takes wisdom and hard work but it is worth it to feel and give back… love. That is how you catch love, darling

Look Within

If you are alone, you don’t have to be. It is up to you to reach the heights and find what type of love brings you bliss. You may need help. It is out there. You have to find it. Sometimes, looking within and saying a prayer can be a source of strength and comfort on your journey. Embracing thankfulness for yourself and your unique qualities is also important in the path to self-love. Self care practices like meditating for five minutes or lighting a candle during your morning routine can remind you that you are worthy of love exactly as you are. That is how you catch love.

Find True Joy

Joy can take many forms. It may come from a person, a beloved pet, a hobby, an online community, returning to college, traveling, or simply spending time alone and indulging in yourself. It may come from giving back. Sometimes, joy arrives through a gift, whether a thoughtful token or a simple act of kindness, that expresses gratitude and appreciation.

It may come from apologizing to someone you’ve hurt, from the quiet wisdom of nature, from a fresh start in a new place, or from the unexpected generosity of a stranger whose kindness lifts you when you least expect it. And it may come from something I haven’t mentioned at all, but it’s out there, waiting for you. All you have to do is reach for it to find… love. This is how you catch love.

Being Thankful for Self Care

With all the complexities life brings, I’ve learned to cope by embracing practical strategies. I’ve learned to nourish myself, to shift my attitude in unpleasant situations, to become more effective,  and to relax, even though it doesn’t always come easily! I now understand that maintaining a sense of calm is essential for self care and emotional balance. Writing, whether journaling or expressing gratitude through handwritten notes, has also become a powerful tool for processing emotions and discovering love within. These are gentle, loving practices you can offer yourself as you build a life filled with love. You deserve that. This is how you catch love.

Creative Ways to Show Gratitude

Expressing gratitude is one of the most beautiful ways to acknowledge the goodness that surrounds us and the people who touch our lives. Sometimes, a simple “thank you” is enough, but there are so many creative ways to let someone know they are appreciated. Giving a thoughtful gift (something that truly reflects a person’s spirit or interests) can be greatly appreciated and shows that you see them for who they are. It doesn’t have to be grand; even a handwritten note, a favorite book, or a small token can make a world of difference.

When you express your deepest thanks, let it come from the heart. Sincerity is always felt, and it can make the recipient feel like a better person, valued and seen. You might also consider using your five senses to create a memorable moment: perhaps a homemade meal, a playlist of music, or a walk together. These sensory experiences can deepen your connection and make your gratitude tangible.

Practicing gratitude doesn’t just uplift others, it also nourishes your own soul and even supports your immune system. When we focus on the blessings in our lives and take time to acknowledge the people who make a difference, we become more aware of the richness of our world. So, whether it’s through a thoughtful gift, a kind word, or a simple act of kindness, remember that expressing gratitude is a gift in itself. One that brings joy to both the giver and the receiver.

Thankful for the Lessons

I have been beyond blessed with my Ultimate Concierge. And you, darling, have been blessed too: with someone, or something, that has touched your life in a meaningful way.

These past months as Shelly’s caregiver have opened my heart even wider. Caring for the man I adore has deepened my gratitude in ways I never expected. I wake up each morning thanking God not only for the wonder of a new day, but for the privilege of still having my Shelly by my side. I begin my day with gratitude for him; his strength, his tenderness, and the love we continue to share, even as we navigate new challenges together.

I remind myself to make sound choices, to stay engaged in positive, life-affirming goals, and to keep walking on the sunny side of the street, even when life throws a curve ball. I am resilient, I carry the positive gene, and above all else, I am filled with love.

My motto has always been… simply be. Isn’t that a lovely phrase? And now, more than ever, it guides me. This is how you find love! Through gratitude, through courage, through caring for those who mean the most. Amen.

What are you thankful for darling? Even when life is hard I’m sure you can find beauty in the lessons!