"What do you do for fun?"

That simple question stopped me in the middle of a long Chicago winter. I found myself living something my grief counselor mentioned, but that I hadn’t yet experienced: the second year is often the hardest because reality has set in.

It was in that space that I realized I needed a new hobby. Something life-giving.

Around that time, I made a birthday basket for a friend and felt a spark of joy. I loved every part of it— choosing the colors, arranging each item, adding in some art, and making it feel just right. Friends have kindly said I’m thoughtful with gifts… and I’ve found I really enjoy shopping for just the right one.

That’s when the Holy Spirit nudged me and an idea started percolating. 

Instead of mindless spending, I could create themed baskets. Names like “Birdsong Basket” and “Bestie Basket” started forming, and before I knew it, I had the opportunity to set up two tables at a nearby church retreat—one with Spiritual Circle Journals and prayer cards and one with 25 hand-curated baskets. Each was purchased by just the right woman.

Here’s what I learned: it’s not exactly a profitable business when you count the hours, but it was good for my heart and put many things I bought to good use as gifts.

The sweetest part was seeing how each basket seemed to end up blessing just the right person, whether it stayed with them or was gifted to someone else who needed it. It meant a lot to know something I enjoyed creating could bless someone else. Plus, this event and the baskets tapped into two of my top core values – connecting with the ladies and creating. When we honor our unique core values life becomes so much sweeter.

God has a way of redeeming even our small, messy places. What started as a shopping distraction and an outlet for my pain, became something creative, meaningful, and full of purpose.

Afterward, my mom said, “Why not just make a few baskets here and there for fun and have them at your table at events?” And just like that—it felt like freedom. A way to keep the joy of creating, without the pressure of a business.

Journaling Prompts:

• What do you do for fun?
• What are you naturally good at that you tend to overlook?
• What might God be inviting you to create, combine, or rediscover in this season?

My lesson learned is that a little nudge can turn a tiny idea into something beautiful.

I hope you enjoyed this story. Please forward it to a friend who might need a little lift. Don't hesitate to hit reply if you have any questions, comments, coaching or speaking needs.



With Love,

Liz Lassa

Speaker/Retreat Leader, Sweet Spot Coach, Life Maps Facilitator & Spiritual Circle Journal Creator

P.S. If you want more basket ideas, check out my social media post today at the links below.

(847) 920-7262 | liz@lizlassa.com | www.LizLassa.com