I distinctly remember spending my entire Christmas Eve & a majority of my Christmas working last year. When my mom tried to knock some sense into me and tell me to stop taking calls and be present, I was slightly annoyed and replied that I was “working to provide a better life for our family”. My greatest lesson in life this year, and perhaps one of the top lessons I’ve learned on this journey I’ve had overall, is that time, health & loved ones are the most precious gifts God can give us. Everything else is secondary. My daughter doesn’t care about what kind of house we live in, she will only remember these early days if I am around and present enough to make them special for her. The toy motorcycle and the rides at the fair are cool, but snuggling with me on the couch and having my attention when she wants to show me what Santa brought her means so much more. Finding balance has always been a difficult task for me. I coined the term Never Not Working & lived that mantra until I was so burnt out and under appreciated that I had no choice but to focus inward. I am so grateful for the ways God has pushed me this year. The past 6 months have been an ongoing journey of me peeling back the layers, examining who I am as a woman, mother, daughter & friend. Who am I when I’m not working? What makes me happy? What does friendship mean to me? Who are my friends when my work is not a contributing factor? I finally got to quiet the noise. No weed, no alcohol, less excessive travel. More cooking, writing, reading, grounding. I am not where I want to be yet, but I am so proud of how far I’ve come. The best gifts I’ve given myself this year are time & grace. I pray that if you are reading this, you’re having a beautiful holiday and extend that same gift to yourself & your loved ones. Go enjoy your family! These apps will be here for you to scroll tomorrow ❤️ Xo