Love YOU first...confessions of a (tired) daydreamer

I am a simple girl and I find joy in the small things. I don't need the big, over-the-top things to make my heart happy. I cherish my friends, I live for special moments, and I embrace the simple life.   Today, I experienced my first snow fall in my new home state. It was beautiful and so peaceful! It only lasted a few hours but it brought so much joy to my heart. There is just something special about snow that this Oregon girl loves...it's one of my favorite things! This got me thinking...  Unexpected snowfall. A coffee date. Going on a hike. Wine tasting. Floating the river. Camping. Watching football. Pedicures. Snuggling with my dog. Family time. Celebrating birthdays. Laughing until my cheeks hurt. Hanging with friends. Walking on the beach. Watching the sunset. Playing mini golf. Having pillow fights. DIY projects. Cheering on my kids... These are just a few of my favorite things. Friends, what brings you joy? What makes your heart happy? Are you a sucker for the si...

I started this little blog, my safe space, a year ago on November 21st. The months that followed were a dark time for me; a period of transition into finding my true self again. I struggled to find the hope and joy that I so desperately needed around me and tried to convince myself that I was brave enough to take on life full force.  I wanted (tried) to create a space that I could share my true feelings and hide behind the screen, concealing my true identity. I wanted to be a positive light for someone out there who might be able to relate. I wanted to offer hope and I believe that it helped...even if for just a hot minute.  Then life happened and I got caught up in all the chaos. Again.  And here I am starting all over. Again.  What I can tell you, though, is that I've missed you. I've missed this. Writing, journaling, blogging...it's what keeps me sane. It helps on the hard days and makes the good days that much better. We forget small details, kind gestures, hurt ...