For us, it's been a year of boundaries, overcoming disappointments, hard conversations, self-care, fresh goals, and simple things.

Although it's ending well, I feel I wasted a lot of time investing in relationships (with people and things) that are now over.

I gave up a lot of "me" time because I felt obligated to give so much to so many.

That's been my downfall... and after 34 years I think I've finally realized that you can't force a sense of belonging. You can't magically create a group of loyal friends and family. It has to come naturally.

While you will have to have your own place on the giving end of these connections, don't sacrifice taking care of yourself and reaching your goals.

You can't.

I'm the total opposite of a Debbie Downer, but I've learned I have to be realistic.

Most people don't care as much as you hope they do. That doesn't mean some don't or that they don't at all... but you have to be the one that makes the necessary moves for you and yours. 

That's the secret to a magical, blissful, peaceful life.

Love hard. Be kind. Give grace.

But have limits and know when enough is enough.

I'm so grateful that God heard our prayers and allowed things to become evident for us... freeing us up and protecting our hearts when we couldn't do it ourselves. Although it stings in the moment, it goes away much quicker than a multi-year burn.

It's true that you never stop learning, growing, maturing, etc. Life is a crazy beautiful thing if you let it be.

Every day may not be good, but there is something good in every day. Find it. Focus on it.

Smile!

Theme for next year- "2023 will be about me!"

📸@samanthadawsonphotography