12-30-15 Bagels and feelings of gratitude to start the New Year

There is a connection between bagels and feelings of gratitude.

I did a story for Whidbey Local about John Auburn, the new owner of (the newly named) Whidbey Island Bagel Factory that was published on Monday, December 28. Whidbey Local mentioned the story on its Facebook page, and when I last checked, there were nearly 200 likes. It’s a great feeling to have a story attract that much attention.

I also have to add that the traditional Christmas breakfast we have in our family consists of Whidbey bagels, lox and cream cheese. My two granddaughters, who are coming for their monthly visit this weekend to grandma and grandpa on Whidbey Island (they live in Bellevue) always begin their visit with a stop at the Bagel Factory.

As I was thinking about my last Blog of the year, I thought about the tradition in our culture of making New Year’s resolutions. I have decided that I much prefer acknowledging feelings of gratitude for what I already have rather than reviewing what I don’t have, or haven’t been able to accomplish, and promising I’ll do better next year.

So, as we approach 2016, I encourage everyone to notice what you have already, or what you are already doing, and appreciate yourself and your life.

And, enjoy a great Whidbey bagel.