It’s officially November! Which means we can start thinking about and talking about thanksgiving. (Maybe even preparing, if you’re a real early bird). Though, truthfully, it’s never too early to speak about gratitude. But I’m sure you know what I mean. Over the years, I have come to realize that gratitude isn’t a task for one day, an idea to celebrate once a year; rather, it is a mindset, a lifestyle, and a choice you have to make every single day. I do have to admit though that it is easier said (or written) than done. It is so easy to talk about gratitude or to buy a gratitude journal and let it sit on your desk empty for days. The hard part is to practice it, to list those things you’re grateful for and find those silver linings behind the clouds.

I am originally from New York City. And while the city lights and the hustle and bustle may seem glamorous, it also has a way of making you feel lonely and lost. There is too much noise, too many distractions, and far too many people. When I moved here to Ormond Beach I suddenly found my footing. For one, Ormond Beach is a magical town, let’s face it. Another important factor is that I found some beautifully, quiet spots that allowed me to meditate and focus inward. And that brings me back to gratitude. No matter how lost and lonely you feel, gratitude always brings you back to the present. And so Ormond Beach combined with gratitude took that lost city girl and brought her into the moment and made her feel alive.

I would love to share some of my favorite spots in town. Spaces that have sparked tremendous joy in my soul. Of course, my first location has to be the beach. You cannot move to a beach-town and not make the beach a primary destination. When I am not in the mood of getting sand in my toes, I love the Birthplace of Speed Park. It’s on the corner of Granada Blvd and A1A in Ormond Beach. It’s just a beautiful, quiet, scenic deck overlooking the ocean. I can sit there for hours just watching the waves. If you’re one for meditating, this is definitely a spot you should check out. There are several benches where you can catch the sun, listen to the waves, and allow your thoughts to take you on a gratitude journey.

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Another incredible spot for meditating and relaxing is the Fortunato Park on the Halifax river located on John Anderson Drive at the corner of Granada Blvd. It’s not the beach, but the sunsets over the Halifax river are straight out of postcards. There are benches to sit and enjoy the view, there’s a walking path if you’re in the mood of walking it out and getting some fresh air. I know from myself, that sometimes when there’s a lot going on in my mind, a good speed walk, releases the stress and shifts my focus. There’s a beautiful pier as well that several people use for fishing on the river. Whatever you choose to do there, it’s a great place to check out. Bring your journal if you feel up to it and record three things you’re grateful for.

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Speaking of journaling, reminds me of my favorite spot of all. Ok, I admit, I’m a little bit biased here. And, drumroll… It’s Eden Fresh Cafe. Duh! Seriously though, come by and treat yourself to a yummy lunch and a recharging iced caramel macchiato. Don’t forget your gratitude journals. They say, food makes the mood. So a nutritious meal and a healthy dose of gratitude are bound to make your day amazing!

On that note, when you come by, please come and say hi. I’m Gittel and I’ll be working at the counter. I’d love it if you share with me what you’re grateful for and I’ll share with you what I’m grateful for that day! And together we can have our own little gratitude community. See you soon!!