LIFESTYLE 8 years ago

Mind Body Soul 2015

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The end of year always makes me nostalgic, but this year more so than the usual. Maybe it’s because this time last year I was counting down the days to meet Chloe for the first time.

Those of you that have been following me for a while know that I’ve been doing these end of year reflections for a few years now (read my 2013 & 2014 reflections). Looking back at them, I’ve come to the realization that every year has a common thread of growth, balance, and the resolve to better myself. But this year it was just, well, different. To be completely honest it was more about SURVIVAL if anything else. Having a baby is a BIG deal (duh…), but I didn’t realize how big of impact it would make on my mind, body and soul… which made 2015 simultaneously the most challenging and joyous year I’ve ever experienced.

There were days when I felt like I was not going to make it. Truth be told, that was almost every day for the first 6 months. Running on 2-3 hours of sleep on a lucky night, then to jumping on a plane to work on a project for 48 hours in another country, to come fly home to no sleep once again. There were days where I felt like I had to choose between sleeping and eating because there was simply not enough hours in the day. Not only was it physically exhausting, but I was mentally figuring out who I was in this new role of mine. (Can we say identity crisis?) There have been many breakdowns, sobs in the showers, and middle of the night prayers, but as exhausting as it was, there were still so many more wonderful things that far outweighed the challenges. The feeling of being loved unconditionally, the bond created between two souls, and of course the growth of our family.

There were more times when I felt naked, alone, and afraid this year than any others, but it was those things that freed my soul and humbled me down to my bones. Which ultimately helped me become more of who I am meant to be.

Because of my nakedness I found comfort in Him.

Because of my loneliness I found strength in my community.

Because of fear I found beauty in vulnerability.

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All of which inspired this post, my last post of 2015. Beauty can be found in the most vulnerable & unexpected places because I can now say that my heart is so full that… it might burst!

Thank you for your love & support in 2015, and CHEERS TO THE BEST YEAR YET! 2016 HERE WE COME!

 

Credits:

Photography by Karen Rosalie