Lean Forward

Sometimes it's hard to get started. We've all been in our comfort zones before, content to stay where we are. But is this what makes us happy? (Truth be told, beer does make me pretty happy...)

T Phillips Alehouse, 2017

    

I remind myself that I have a great life: a fulfilling job, friends in several states, my family nearby. I'm content. But I want more.

Rumi on point. 

This week has been full of opportunities for being bold. I grasped them each time and met them with a smile. I made new friends, I laughed and cheered. I savored special moments with the people I love, and I tried to make new memories with moments I loved.

Grandma Lee and Grandpa Bob, 2017

I was reminded today that all I need to do to get started is lean forward. Let the momentum move you.

All That February Stuff

I've always liked Valentine's Day. The happy couples, the sharing of love, the conversation hearts... Seriously, I used to* make up stories with my box of hearts. (*"used to" refers to last year's box). Anyway, I was looking forward to the day of hearts this year. I bought cute new leggings, cards to send to my friends. I even made an adorable gift to send up to my favorite little dudes in Washington.

Then February 14th arrived. And my Facebook feed was plastered with happy couples and super sweet status updates. I would normally "ooh" and "ahh" and comment on all the love I saw, but this year I felt something different.

I was angry.

I wasn't angry at my friends for being in love. I was angry that I had wasted so much time pushing people away. I was angry that I had chased after men who I knew were not going to get married. I was angry that I let another person's immaturity and selfishness make me feel like I wasn't worthy of his love.

Because I am worth much more than his love. You get in return what you put out into the world, so perhaps being bold is about putting my heart out there where it's vulnerable.

Cats, Craft brew, Choices

Alas, the end of winter break. I guess I ought to turn my alarm clock back on, put real clothes on each day, and time my bathroom breaks for lunch periods. Say goodbye to the giant coffee I've been lazily consuming each morning, while snuggling with the cats under the softest fleece blanket, and catching up on the news (and social media).

I tried to incorporate some boldness in my life this week. First of all, I started using my Instagram as more than just a way to catch all the pictures of my friends' lives. Instead, I wanted to make it a place I can go and see pictures of all my favorite things (no, it's not all cats).

(Ok, it's 98% cats and 2% craft brews.)

Check #catsofinstagram for all this cuteness.

I also found myself in the midst of a holiday party for one of my favorite places (Barrelhouse 101). It was being held at a local brewery (Ventura Coast Brewing Company) and included a brewery tour for their staff! I should mention that sometimes, I can be a little shy. I can keep my comments to myself and quietly take in the scene...this was not one of those times. I really enjoyed learning about the brewing process!

As I head back to school tomorrow, I'll do my best to keep moving forward, make bold choices, create this future I dream of, not give in.

Golden China Restaurant, 2017
I will go down with this ship
I won't put my hands up and surrender
There will be no white flag above my door
I'm in love and always will be

BOLD.

There was a time I used to sit down and write my New Year's Resolutions. 

I resolve to run more and eat out less. I resolve to organize my house. I resolve to drink fewer vodka sodas. 

We all know how this turned out...basically, I run when I want to, my organizational skills have not improved, and I just drink more whiskey. 

Birthday at PC's, 2016

A few years ago, I decided I would try something new. Instead of making specific goals, I would think about a word that would guide me in the new year. 

2015: ADVENTURE

2016: BRAVE

...

2017: BOLD

I'm not exactly sure what it means for me yet, but I know this year is going to be full of some big decisions and I think a little boldness could go a long way. Cheers to a happy, healthy, wonderful New Year. May this year be full of laughter, love, and peace of mind.

Champagne Toast at Chuy's Simi West, 2017