8/26/10

Words for Thought

I'm a huge proponent of great quotes - I only wish I had more room on my fridge to fit my favorites. Since I don't, however, I'll share this one on my blog, instead. Hope it pricks your heart the way it did mine.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.
If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies. Succeed anyway.
If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you. Be honest and sincere anyway.
What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight. Create anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous. Be happy anyway.
The good you do today, will often be forgotten. Do good anyway.
Give the best you have, and it will never be enough. Give your best anyway.
In the final analysis, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.

- Mother Teresa

8/19/10

Enjoying this season

I was just thinking ...

A year ago, today, my little Gracie turned 6 months old and life was finally starting to feel "normal" again. It was like a breath of fresh air, and an immense burden lifted from my shoulders. You see - my first few months of motherhood were filled with anxiety, something I had never experienced before. This came as a bit of a surprise, but I was determined to overcome it so I began running an hour each day, went on a rigorous diet and started building a new business. My (x)husband was doing his thing (work and a lot of golf) while I was doing mine. It felt healthy, growing independent and strong, while gladly encouraging him to enjoy each day golfing. Most importantly, Gracie had found her routine and I had found mine. Order was restored and I found fulfillment, thanking the Lord daily. Life couldn't have been better.

Today, one year later, I echo those same feelings. I haven't exact direction with my life, but I've found a general routine and, in that routine, daily fulfillment. I can say today, as I did a year ago, that life is finally starting to feel normal again. The last 3 months have gone by quickly, and the last 3 weeks even more so. I enjoy copious blessings and bask in the daily support of loving friends and family. I continue to experience personal growth and self-awareness at a new level, and have gained a certain knowledge of God's love and concern for me. I've experienced love with a man of God, and I now know the strength of being equally yoked. Most importantly... I have a beautiful, healthy, daughter who leaves my heart bursting at the seams every minute of every day - my ineffable joy unfathomable.

The journey may seem never-ending, but the fresh air and lightened burden along the way bring perspective and gratitude to all things. I trust a glorious season awaits... but considering the season I'm in... Life couldn't be any better.

8/11/10

Summer photos

I am in complete awe at how quickly my little baby is becoming a little girl. She LOVES to play, watch the "big kids" around her, and copy exactly what she sees. This is both adorable and worrisome, but the reward in watching her learn is priceless.

Last weekend we made a last-minute trip to Idaho, and on our way back home we went to Bear Lake. Since it was unplanned we had no bathing suites, but Gracie didn't seem to mind, and it was all I could do to keep her out of the water.

And so - here are a few pictures from our Summer.





8/2/10

An awkward return and renewing resolve

Dear blog,

I can no longer hide the obvious. We both know I've neglected you these last three months, and it's about time I give you an explanation. The truth is... (Big breath)... I've been cheating. Yep. While you thought I was off working and enjoying my summer with friends, I was actually spending my time with another blog. Nearly every day. I grew and I learned more about myself, but when it comes down to it, I realize you're the original, you're lasting, and you're the blog I love. And so I'm back. I'm sorry if I hurt you, but as I give you my love and attention I hope I can make it up to you.

If you wonder about the other blog you're welcome to read it, but if it pangs you I understand. For the last three months I wrote nearly every day. I still have entries to finish and loose ends to tie up... but really... from here on out I'm all yours. http://90daysofhealing.blogspot.com/

Sincerely,
Natalie