Reflections
Jumpsuit // Ring // Artwork 1 // Artwork 2 // Artwork 3
I think it's only fair I forewarn you that this post will not only be lengthy, but probably a bit emotional. Correction. DEFINITELY emotional. As we embark on this next chapter in our new home, it only seems natural to reflect on the past three years....Blame it on hormones or probably the bigger culprit is the move into our house in SEVEN DAYS. Wowza...after two years, it's finally coming to a close. And as with all major changes in my life, I always reflect on where we've been and where we're going. Hells, Cue the tears. Let me preface this reflections post with saying its purpose is two fold.....first, like with many of us, it's therapeutic for me to journal and document my thoughts and reflections... But almost more importantly, I hope it serves as a slice of hope for those that may be in a current struggle. I receive numerous messages from single moms, women going through divorce, troubled marriages, loss, etc.. and while I don't claim to have all the answers....I will say it's just a little blip on the radar. Just one chapter in your life's beautiful story. I can promise you it will strengthen you more than you ever thought possible and there will come a day when you look back on this difficult time with appreciation. ‘Tis Crazy but true. I most certainly don't want to dwell too long on where I've been...however, I can't help but reflect on how my life and the bunnies' lives have done a beautiful 180 in three years......
If you're new to s + s, W E L C O M E. I'm happy and humbled you're stopping by. If you're a veteran, y'all know my love runs deep for your continued love and support. You've been with me through T H E toughest and most beautiful moments of my life and my appreciation for you is immeasurable. As I mentioned, I felt compelled to write this post based on the emails I receive from women in the midst of adversity....wondering if there is light at the end of the difficult tunnel. And my answer is an emphatic.....one hundred percent Y E S.
REFLECTIONS
If a psychic told me three years ago that I would meet the man of my dreams, leave our sweet little home in Lexington, move to the midwest, get married, watch my beautiful daughters and amazing husband cultivate a bond I thought was forever lost, build our dream home, get pregnant, and give birth to the most perfectly precious baby boy....I'd ask, "What in the Sam Hell are you smoking?" Truly. Even at my darkest moments, I respected the fact that these moments were a part of life. I knew that "This too shall pass." I accepted that those cards were my hand to play. And while I accepted the circumstances, it didn't make that time any less difficult. In the moment, adversity can, for lack of a better word, S U C K. It's so hard to be objective when you're the one experiencing the heartache. It’s hard to see beyond the rubbish. But maybe for a moment, take it from a gal who has had several solid doses of adversity....you ARE going to come out on top. Stay positive. Project it. Be it. As hard as it may be, remember you get back what you put out. I'm a firm believer in this. If you're constantly in a state of negativity...you best believe that rain cloud will continue to follow you. Perhaps switch gears and realize that these lessons, as I'd like to call them, can in fact be blessings if you allow them to teach and strengthen you. Gosh, I learned so damn much about myself, my loved ones, my friends, my faith, and my children the year I got divorced and the subsequent years that followed. And I’ve said this before but I truly mean this wholeheartedly, I APPRECIATE that time. I’m thankful for it. It’s because of the adversity, I grip so damn tightly to my blessings today. Not a day goes by that I don’t thank God for this beautiful life He has given the five of us. It’s NEVER lost on me. EVER. My rambling aside, my wish for you should you be in the midst of a shitstorm....look for that silver lining. For example, during my divorce which was a colossal storm, the girls were healthy. They had wonderful friends. They attended the most supportive school with the most incredible teachers. They had so many people in their corner it was insane. We had that darling roof over our heads. The blog was chugging along. Silver Lining(s). There is always one or more. Focus on what is good and let that propel you to stay as positive as possible. It pays dividends. John is my dividend. That boy stepped into my life and changed it in the most profound way and I have to believe my faith and surrounding myself with positive people, experiences, and my mindset led him right into that corner of Belle’s in Lexington, Kentucky where I sat in a grubby sweatshirt, boyfriend jeans, and adidas superstars and he said, “Well you sure don’t look like you want to be here.....”. And the rest is history......... Thank you, gang, for visiting today. And every day for that matter. I’m feeling so thankful, gracious, excited for what the future holds. I know there are more obstacles in our future because, well....L I F E. But for today, I just wanted to share that I’m so thankful for you and I hope this maybe lifted the veil a touch! Lastly, s + s got a little makeover!! Isn’t she pretty?? A H U G E thank you to my site designer, McKenzie...she's flat out brilliant when talking all things graphic design. We’re evolving here over at s + s and always sharing fashion, but now there’s so much more....Fitness, Family, Home and......Food (I’ll be posting a recipe this week). I’m excited for what’s in store this year and would love for you to come along for the ride!! Make it a great one Gang....cheers to YOU!
Photos courtesy of Shelly Ruth
