Today, I purchased birthday gifts for my youngest. She’ll be nine soon & I’m in disbelief. Happens every year.

I always look at my daughters in awe while simultaneously questioning how we got here so fast. Not a day goes by that I don’t feel I’m in a parallel universe.

How are they these ages already? And in these grade levels? HOW??!!

One thing’s for sure… time isn’t waiting on any of us to do what’s in our hearts to do. Nor is it waiting for us to say what needs to be said. As I get older, ‘now or never’ takes on a deeper meaning.

The next moment is truly never promised.

As I shopped today, I also thought of you. What are you doing? How are YOU feeling? And spare me the automated “I’m fine” response we tend to throw around.

I know better than that!

If you don’t want to comment below, my inbox is open. Feel free to vent if you need some form of a listening ear.

The loads of daily life can feel so heavy-especially nowadays. Although I’m fortunate to have the great support system I often mention, there are things I realize I’m in need of. Admitting this used to be hard for me but as usual, thank goodness for growth.

Now… I rarely hesitate to speak up.

My mom recently pointed out some of my personal truths. She always knows & her wisdom is to be respected. I was aware of those truths before she brought them up but hearing her speak on them jolted me to attention.

You see… I lived a certain lifestyle for over 15 years. This is no longer my reality but putting myself out there… adopting a new lifestyle… just hasn’t been a real priority. And because I’m honest, it still isn’t. However, I’ve made & continue to make changes.

Lately, I’ve made real efforts to open up to people, to say ‘yes’ more often. I’m slowly tearing down pieces of the protective walls I’ve built around me. These decisions make me more vulnerable but I’m approaching all doors with my eyes wide open.

Live & learn.

None of this means a lack of boundaries, however. I’m still extremely particular about who & what I allow into our lives… our circle. If you’ve ever watched, Meet the Fockers, it’s a good comedic depiction (minus the extremes) of how close-knit my family is.

I have a very loving, accepting, affectionate, & loyal inner circle. Therefore, if a person has been excluded from it or not allowed in at all, know that something drastic occurred. They’ve shown us who they really are & you’re damn right we believe them.

If an individual’s presence is a disruption of our overall peace, he/she has to go. Peace must be protected.

Do you believe in protecting your peace? I consider it a life commandment. And on that note, I’ll bow out gracefully.

This blog post is clearly a random entry. So much is on my mind & writing helps me navigate the overload. If you made it this far, thanks for ridin’ with me.

New adventurous posts are on the way. Be on the lookout for those, too. Until then, stay safe & know I appreciate YOU. <3