I love the intricate silhouettes of tree branches. The way they twist and reach and exist as if they are floating in space speaks to me. The knowledge that beneath the earth there lies an even greater web of roots that possibly reach and twist in just the same way make trees one of my favorite things in the entire world.

Before we had kids, one of our favorite things to do together as a couple was to hike in the state park. We had all the time in the world to embrace the peacefulness and re-energizing qualities of nature. It was how we took care of ourselves after a long week of work.

I miss those quiet moments in my scurry to “get things done”around the house or keep to the schedule and routine around which our lives revolve. I always think weekends will be restful, but they rarely are. Even when the house is quiet and everyone is asleep, I try to be productive instead of taking time for me, or I sit on my phone and engage in meaningless scrolling- a spectator of everyone else’s happiness instead of building my own.

But today was different.

Today, I left five loads of laundry unfolded, the sink full of dishes, the floor covered in dog hair, and my phone untouched for thirty minutes while the kids napped to give myself some time to process and reflect- to care for me. And man, did that feel good.

I walked into 2017 with new hopes and goals and a determination to throw off darkness and keep my mind centered in my present. So today, I went looking for my truths so I could accept the things I cannot change and determine my goals to embrace the ways I can for a happier, healthier me.

I hope you take the time to do the same. ♥

My Truths & Goals:

The most painful experiences are the ones that change us the most. Aim to see the good in the bad.

Human beings are not good by nature but through effort. Consciously put in the effort to serve others in unexpected ways.

The people who irk us the most are the people who have one or more qualities/things we most desperately and jealously wish we had. Work on you and remove the irksome from your vision and your presence.

We all crave praise, recognition, and approval- especially those who pretend most like they don’t. Only seek approval from God and the people you admire most.

The seemingly most impossible tasks feel suffocating until they are finished. Do the impossible anyway- believe in your own abilities.

♥Find your truths and embrace positive change.

Love yourself.

Take time to care for you.♥