Athena

We don’t grow when things are easy. We grow when we’re tested.
          
          Grams needed me today. I just hope Gramps is okay. Family comes first. Always.
          
          Long flight ahead, and I need to make it home on time. Once everything is settled… I’ll have to return immediately. Someone’s waiting for me.
          
          Life moves fast, but the important things don’t wait.
          
          

​Thanks, Mum... I know what to do. Love you always.

Heading back to my comfort zone. The day went well and was productive.
          The oldies behaved today — no trouble, no headaches. I’ll take that win.
          Makes me wonder what I’ll be like when I’m older. Grumpy?
          Nah. I prefer calm over storms.
          
          Just realized I almost forgot to get my favorite food… good thing I’m not picking anyone up, or wow, I’d be in so much trouble right now.

Thanks for making me smile today :)
          Sometimes that’s all you need.

Out walking with no plan, just hunting for something new to eat for lunch. Hmm… what will it be today?
          Time doesn’t wait, no reply, no rewind, so I’m taking my moment.
          Even with the cold biting through my coat, I’m here, enjoying the sights and sounds outside. I’ll face the chaos later, but for now, let’s see what lunch has in store.

Just came up in my thoughts… Sending this letter to my mum, if she’s reading, or maybe I’ll write it down and ask a bird to deliver it above.
          
          Hey Mum,
          Just thinking… what if I really push through with my dreams? I’ve already done so much because of my responsibilities, and now I’m taking on something even bigger. I want to make a real difference, even though I’m giving my all, it still doesn’t feel enough. I worry about my time and energy. You know what I went through in those early years, barely out of my teens… do you think I can make it through?
          I care, I try, I love deeply, and I rise no matter how heavy life gets. I’m a mix of broken pieces and brave parts. I’m not perfect, I make mistakes, and I learn the hard way, but I don’t pretend to be someone I’m not. I may not be perfect, but I’m real.
          
          Just give me a sign, Mum… I miss you all so much.

Funny enough, after a long day, a hot shower and slipping into my favorite pajamas make everything feel right, even if it’s cold. The steam on your skin, a warm cup of hot chocolate in your hands, soft music playing… this is my kind of quiet night.

Those smiles stayed with me longer than I expected. The day ended lighter than it began.

​It takes real courage to put your heart on paper and share it with the world. I’ll always admire that. Real recognizes real. ;)
          
          ​There’s a quiet peace in knowing where you’re headed, even if you’re walking the path alone for a while. Coffee is finished, the mind is awake, and the reflections are done.
          
          ​Now it’s time to let the work speak. Off to find something interesting, share some good energy, and enjoy the view.
          

A quiet morning thought.
          
          Sending warmth to anyone reading this: I hope you find healing, even from the things you don’t yet realize are hurting you, and that you find yourself, gently and in your own time.