How Did I Get Here?

I grew up in a home based in faith.  We attended church and the affiliated school.  Steeped in traditional repetition, it’s where my faith foundation came from.  My childhood was idyllic – small town, family-centric with many memories of hometown goodness.

I didn’t always feel like I fit in. I existed on the fringe looking inward at the experiences of others, longing for the same.  I made efforts to mesh by stepping out of my comfort zone in attempts to excel; excellence equaled parental praise. My journey wasn’t what I expected. College was a struggle, marriages failed and I was off seeking the next best thing.

Once I stepped back into faith, the pieces began to fall into place.  Single-parenting was challenging but rewarding beyond all expectation.  Rainbows and butterflies were not a constant. The grace of God, along with the forgiveness and strength I experienced, paved the way as I took each step forward.  I am still growing.  When I make mistakes, I internally dwell on the smallest faux pas, eventually coming to the realization that I suffer, as many, from the human condition of being imperfect…and that’s okay.

I loved my career which consistently focused on assisting others to achieve the greater task at hand. I found contentment in playing a supporting role.

I married a true partner in life who shares the same values and complements my personality.  My son is grown with a lovely family and my husband and I delight in being grandparents.

Though the gray hairs are more numerous with each passing day, my personality continues to reflect a fun-loving, creative, energetic, kid-at-heart.  Birthdays, holidays and life’s milestones are celebrated BIG taking on a life of their own.  I’m a self-declared lover of décor – many women love handbags and shoes – I love pillows and coffee mugs. My kitchen, couch and bed reflect those vices, transforming seasonally.

Choosing to retire early was a decision to pursue the childhood dream of days filled with creativity – to write, design, craft, sew and paint.  It is a new adventure I’m embracing wholeheartedly. I am excited you’re here with me! Let’s explore life’s eccentricities, find humor in our blunders and bond in a friendship through the pages.