Sometimes, The Most Important Person To Hear This From...is Yourself.

Difficult yet noble cause.

Good morning, world. Thinking of you today 😚💋

I just had a first date with someone who got upset because he doesn't like my politics. Even though he agrees with the same values and goals. So, because he couldn't effectively debate about his own positions he finally just yelled at me and called me names. Then he kicked me out of his truck in front of my apartment building. 😒 dating at 45 years old feels stupid. No wonder gave up any hope of companionship and intimacy.

Can I really do this? Again? I barely managed it 20 something years ago. Are blind online connections and toys all I have to look forward? I barely walked away from my divorce with any self-confidence. Not to mention my impoverished self-esteem bank.

GAWD!!! I don't know if I can do this. I need to be touched and caressed, cherished and respected, valued and treasured. Loved.

“Maybe, the only thing that has to make sense about being somebody’s friend is that you help them be their best self on any given day. That you give them a home when they don’t want to be in their own.”

— Elizabeth Acevedo, The Poet X

Mmm...yes, please.

A couples-only rainforest getaway

perfect for honeymoons and romantic escapes.

© crystalcreek rainforest retreat

Today, Mother's Day, I called my mom to tell her how much I love her and look to her example often for guidance in my own life's journey. The conversation that followed was mostly the same as usual and then my Momma said something to me that left me utterly speechless.

Momma told me that she looks up to me because of my bravery and my adventurous spirit.

Wait...what?!

Recently, I went through a divorce and decided that I needed (and wanted) to sell my house and leave the state of Oklahoma and find adventure in Eastern Michigan. I have family on the other side of the state and I have been in love with the idea of living in the Detroit area since I was a young kid. So... I did it.

I sold my house and large stuff, gave away more stuff, and then packed up the rest. I put my 22 year old daughter, elderly dog, toddler dog, and myself into the Ford pickup and set course for the birthplace of Motown... Motor City!

I have allowed my PTSD to turn me into a social hermit of late and it's time for drastic measures to help thwart my youngest daughter from the same trap. It's like a river, constantly in motion. Which could be slow and peaceful, filled with eddy and whirlpools, or turbulent and rapid. Life for me has become a journey to be able to thrive on that river as it comes and changes. This is what I can do with my daughter until she feels confident to do it on her own.

I never thought of this to be particularly brave. I certainly never expected my most respected mentor and hero to tell me that they look to my actions and choices from which they draw inspiration!

Best Mother's Day gift ever. Thank you, Momma. I love you so very much.