Hey readers!
My name is Sarah Howard and I’m very excited to announce that I’ve joined the Pure Design Team as a creative writer/blogger. Each Thursday I will be sharing posts under topics like: fashion, DIY, inspiration and more!
Let me tell you a little about myself!
My mom and grandmothers are very crafty ladies, so naturally my first sewing machine fell in my lap in fifth grade. By 13 I was a hot glue gun pro and made Christmas wreaths. As I got older I fell in love with fashion and repurposing thrift finds and in 2007 I started blogging about vintage clothing. As the years went on I wrote my personal stories of life lessons and times of trial.
Currently I work with a lovely girl that has serve autism within her home, but by night I dream about becoming a freelance writer. When I’m not reading or writing, I spend a lot of my free time decorating my apartment in Grandview with my handmade projects. I’ve had my share of ups and downs in life, which you’ll hear more about as time goes on. Although I’ve had some heart wrenching experiences I’d never take them back. I love to share my stories to help encourage young woman to be themselves.
“And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful.” – Colossians3:17
I love the beautiful fall colors but the early sunsets are something I struggle with. Every year after the clocks turn back I feel myself become less active and more prone to watch Netflix while eating a big bowl of ice cream. Like most Ohioians when the cold weather hits I suffer from depression and anxiety. My mind runs to lies and the negative side of things and some days it seems impossible to shake them.
One huge way I’ve been able to keep my spirits up and mind active is by expressing gratitude. A friend of mine told me, “Gratitude is a choice.” It’s easy to express thanks when life is looking up. But to choose gratitude when times are tough changes your life.”
“Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” -1 Thessalonians 5:18
In the snowy months last winter giving thanks to God kept me going. I kept a gratitude journal and did my best to write in it each day. As the days past, I noticed that my negative thoughts began to decrease as I focused on my goals and friendships.
As thanksgiving approaches, we’d like to challenge you to find something you’re thankful for each day! Post what you’re thankful for on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook with the hashtag #PureDesignThanks and at the end of the month we are going to share some of our favorites! See how gratitude can help get you through the change of seasons and carry you through to Thanksgiving Day.
Photos by Glenna Koepnick and Laurel Powers
