Self-Care: Why it is important

Time Out for Me

I recently had a mini-mental breakdown; I felt I was being buried alive… knowing the end was near and I could not breath and I could not yell out for help.  The walls were closing in and I felt hopeless. Defeated. Unhealthy, yet real thoughts started to make their way through my mind and as my heart rate increased, I knew the thoughts were all too real.  Over the years I have learned to recognize the signs. It was not good. I wondered if my husband and children would miss me. Would they realize I was no longer here? Realizing what was happening, I made a decision and took a break from social media and as I would be having an upcoming weekend all to myself, I was going to spend a lot of the time reading, meditating, praying and getting to the root of the problem.  Let me say this: Social media was not the problem.  I knew exactly what the problem was… The enemy was not liking the changes I was making in my life and when you’re a child of God and you commit to making changes in your life, the enemy ain’t happy. He was actually quite pissed.

In September, Dude and I decided to get our finances in order. While we make more money now than we did prior to our move, and our overall bills are the same - I felt as though we were drowning. We signed up to take the Dave Ramsey – Financial Peace University course through church and we started the path to financial freedom.  Learning about having an emergency fund, using the envelope system, getting our credit cards in order and starting the debt-snowball plan, things were looking good. We could start seeing a glimpse of light at the end of the tunnel.  Then BAM – we fell victims to a scam and our account went from $750 (positive) to negative $2600!!! My heart sank. The bank, cold and blameless – emotionless and couldn’t care less. Needless to say, I no longer bank at Chase! As crazy as it may sound, one of the things I fear most in life is being ‘broke’. Growing up, I was never taught the importance of saving, 401k, emergency funds, living within your means, no credit cards, interest rates, etc… When I saw the account was negative $2600, I went to a dark place… Dude, because we talk about everything, including our past, our childhood, etc… knew this was going to be bad. Thank God Dude is who he is… we both can’t be a basket case. One of us needs to be level headed and remain sane. In this situation, it was him. Within 24 hours we were blessed and all we could do was continuously praise and thank God. The enemy did not win.

On October 1^st, one of the most inspiring, motivating and courageous woman I know, follow and admire, Melissa Nixon, started a 21-day prayer for Entrepreneurs. I joined, and I’ve been listening and participating in the prayers and I started noticing a shift inside of me. I was learning about key individuals in the bible and hearing about how God used them and about all the great things they were able to accomplish through their diligence and commitment to God. Their faith did not waver, and the blessings bestowed upon them, blessed nations upon nations. I started seeing hope and I could see my future self: blessed, encouraged, strong, speaking to women – changing lives. I could see us being able to give like no other and enjoying life; no struggle. I could see us planted and being part of a church family, something I’ve always wanted.  And then, here comes the enemy… I started doubting and comparing myself to others. I started reading the testimonies of those in the 21-day prayer group and started wondering – well where’s my testimony?  I recognized what was happening and prayed. I asked God for forgiveness and that is when I decided to take a social media break. I would go in daily, however, to be part of the prayer group. I was not giving up and once again – the enemy did not win.

You’d think he would give up, right?  Without going into details, as sharing the details are not going to change what has already happened or change the outcome, I will say the enemy tried to come after my child – the youngest one.  I’m surrounded by prayer warriors and when what happened, happened – she was immediately prayed over, and the shield of protection was around her. Some will ask – well why wasn’t she covered before??? And let me stop you right there. Believe it or not, she was covered. My children are always covered and so are we. God gave us the ability to choose and sometimes, for numerous reasons, we chose incorrectly, and we must face the consequences. It does not mean God has abandoned us – far from it. He shows up and He shows out. And again… the enemy did not win.

While nothing was taken from us, other than money when the banking situation occurred, God has been in the midst of everything and I am reminded of Job.  Job had everything… great big family, lots of kids, good health, lots of animals, friends, big house, property – he was living life, and all was great. All of the sudden, here comes the enemy and Job lost everything. He lost everything except for his faith and love towards God.  In the end, everything Job lost was returned and even greater than he had had before!

The enemy tried to mess with us by hitting me in an area where he knows I’m vulnerable in… finances.

The enemy tried to mess with me by hitting me in an area where I often doubt myself…my passion for helping women rediscover themselves and live a free and happy life.

The enemy tried to mess with us by hitting me in an area, every parent fears…their children.

Vulnerability: Scripture I am praying and living by – 2 Corinthians 12: 9-10

Doubt: Scriptures I am praying and living by – Proverbs 3:5-8 and Jeremiah 29:11

Fears: Scriptures I am praying and living by – 2 Timothy 1:7, Psalm 34:4, Philippians 4:6, Proverbs 22:6 and Proverbs 29:15

Over the past several weeks a lot more has happened, but I’ll let these three events be my testimony. The enemy has not won, and he will not over take me or my family or my finances. All I have belongs to God. I know God is doing a great thing in me and I cannot wait to share the fruits! Because as 1 John 4:4 says: “... greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world”.

While my weekend retreat had some bumps and bruises, I stayed prayerful, I fasted by giving up something, I listened to some awesome sermons recommended by a dear and close friend... Y'all, go to YouTube and look up Under Doesn't Mean Over// Planted Not Buried by Pastor Michael Todd of Transformation Church. It's a three-part series and I listened to all three parts, took notes (and I never do that)... OH MY!!! Powerful. I started my vision board for 2019. I talked to God. I had brunch with a new friend and I know we'll be friends for like ever! And she's a prayer warrior also... I also cried a lot. I watched some shows and I started reading a new book. My weekend ended by getting a massage in my living room- Jessica is amazing! 

Anyways, self-care looks different for everyone. However it may look for you, just make sure to slow down and make time for you. As women, we are always overextending ourselves and rarely say no.  We also tend to hold a lot in: our fears, doubts, frustrations, etc.  Make sure you are surrounding yourself with strong, intelligent women... surround yourself with those that will keep you in prayer (if you're a believer).  Surround yourself with those that will uplift, encourage and motivate you. 

We have to do a better job. We owe it to ourselves and we owe it to those around us... So grab your planner and pick a weekend or a 24-hour period... and Take. Care. Of. YOU!

Stay Free & Happy,

xoxo-Maryann

Great at starting, suck at committing!

Great at starting, suck at committing!

I recently put myself out there and asked some individuals for feedback.  The feedback was on what they perceived to be a weakness of mine and provide a strength, also.  The idea came from the book The Miracle Morning, by Hal Elrod.  If you have not heard of Hal, his story, or the book - click the link to be directed to YouTube and hear one of his speeches!  **Do this after your finish reading this post** At first, I was a little apprehensive – I mean who really asks for feedback on a weakness?  Not many are willing to put themselves in such a vulnerable situation. Yet, I continued reading Hal’s words and what I learned was this: You’re asking feedback on how people PERCEIVE you. There may or may not be any validity to the words; it’s how the individual(s) perceive you, your behavior.  In other words, what are you putting out to the universe and how is the universe receiving it.  I started thinking on who to ask for feedback and as names started popping up in my mind, I started thinking of who would be totally honest and not sugar coat their opinions.  I went with the latter. 

I wrote the email and sent it out – BCC - obviously. The emails slowly started trickling in and as I started to read the words, I had to stop both reading and my mental judgement.  Like seriously “this is not me”, “where is this coming from”, “they don’t know me at all”.  I put the emails aside and sat in silence…thinking.  Hal’s words came back to life that these are their views on what I’m putting out to the universe.  So, I went back and kept reading and re-reading.  I noticed a pattern: Strength – determined, not afraid to step out and try new things… Weakness – does not fully commit to new ventures, puts one foot out but keeps the other inside not fully committing and giving it your all, easily gets bored. Hmmmm… as I read the variations of the same thing – I thought to myself; is this true?  Do I jump to new opportunities but don’t commit?  Do I easily get bored?  The answer, after much reflecting: YES. It's true.  100% - that's me for sure.

I went back to the very first venture I ever tried: Discovery Toys! This goes back to the early 90's.  I honestly don't remember the ins and outs other than it was toys that were to be engaging and foster learning for the young minds.  Then there’s AVON, Mary Kay, Steeped Tea, Herbalife, Origami Owl, Coaching Business and the Photography Business…Also, writing my book!

I was somewhat surprised at the amount of things that popped up that I had started and did not finish or gave up on.   And in regards to my boredom - I do get bored easily and when I get bored - I move on... be it a job or even more seriously: relationships.  I'll dive into the latter on another post.  Was there anything I had started that I had finished? And the only two examples that came to mind where: completing my Associate's and Bachelor's degrees.   

So off course, going back to the feedback from the emails and to the readings from the book, I started to think about WHY.  Why had I started so many things and why had I not followed through?  What was it about my degrees that was so important (apparently), that made me complete them?  I'll be honest - not an easy question to answer.

Here's what I've discovered: While I enjoy the finer things in life - traveling, the beach, staying home (versus working for the man - as they say), wine, shopping, safe and comfortable place to live... I am not motivated by money.  Four out of the nine things above, were NOT driven by money.  Let me explain in detail: 

Mary Kay - I've been using MK products for 20 years!!!  I'm not trying anything else and I'm not stopping.  I figured, why not become a consultant and get my items at a discount and earn some extra cash.  Well, that motivation was not enough because I'm the worse consultant ever!  I rarely advertise, I don't follow-up with people, I don't try to grow my team... I just don't.  However, I will call my Director and order through her (for myself) in a heartbeat.  If I want something, I'm going to get it - money isn't a problem.  So while, yes, I could be getting my products at 50% discount (yup, you read that right - 50%!!!), I much rather pay full price because it's easier for me and the benefits, don't motivate me.   You know what did motivate me when it came to MK? Was the relationship building and meeting new people.  Will I get back to it - I am still an active consultant, after all.  Maybe. But before I do... my "why" needs to be clear.

Now, the three things that do matter are: Coaching business, Photography business AND my book! I love talking and helping people. Particularly women.  I enjoy sitting down and discussing goals, dreams, and coming up with a plan to achieve those dreams.  I enjoy following up with individuals, and I definitely love and enjoy seeing the growth - from mental to physical to financial.  It's a true blessing being a part of the process.  I do miss that.  

Photography business:  I'll be honest... I miss taking pictures.  But I do not miss the demands or expectations of people.  Photography for me was never about the money! Never.  And that's when I lost my interest in it... when I combined my passion with money.   See, photography for me was an escape.  It helped release my stress levels - like for real!  I could easily make $3000 in one day (wedding) - but the stress - was not worth it to me.  And I also, because again photography for me was an escape NOT a business, I was not clear on my "why" and I found myself doing everything in photography: maternity, engagement, wedding, special events, families, landscape, newborns... URGH - it was too much.  So what did I do?  Unbeknownst to my husband, I sold my equipment and stopped taking pictures.  He noticed a few weeks later, when he asked why I wasn't out shooting.  I told him and thank God he wasn't upset.  He understood.  The following Christmas, to my surprise he bought me a new camera - which I still have.  I may get back into photography - but before I do - I'll need to be clear on my "why".

In regards to my book: While I am about 80% finished, there are some things that I'm still holding on to.  There are some things about me, my life - that only a few people know about... and honestly, I am allowing fear of judgement hold me back.  Believe me when I tell you, that I know my story will change lives. I know my story will inspire and motivate many.  And I also know, that people will judge what they don't understand... but that does not change how I feel and my feelings are valid.  I'm a work in progress and I continue to pray to God to guide and help me with this.

Now, the two things that I have managed to start AND finish: my degrees.  This was easy to figure out.  I was a high school drop-out and I wanted to prove something to my children.  I wanted to show them that although mistakes have been made, things can turn around - and you can do whatever you set your mind too... if it's important.  My why: To be the role model my children needed in their lives. They don't need to look at anyone else for inspiration or motivation - I'm their role model.  I also wanted to remind myself that I was not a failure.  I made the mistake of dropping out of school, but that decision would not define me.  Those reasons were enough for me to dig deep inside and succeed.  

So, what is my why?  What will motivate me to put both feet down on the other side?  What will motivate me to move forward and not look back?  What will move me from my current situation (stuck-ish) to maximum success?  What is it that I truly want out of life?

Stay tune...because this I can promise you.... I'm not starting anything that I'm not ready to finish!  I'm not picking up anything that I've started, that I'm not ready to finish. 

I'm all about living free and happy and it's MY TIME.

xoxo-

Maryann

**Share and send me a message/comment. I'd love to hear from you.

All alone... well, it feels like it!

I see why I have not made it as a full-time blogger! My last post was over two years ago. EEEK!  So much has happened and I guess the place to begin is where I left off.

First and foremost, guess what y'all - I'm a published author!!! YES I AM. Here's the back story and a quick synopsis. 

Summer of 2016, we went on our very first cruise. My hubby and I, along with my two daughters got in the car and drove...yes drove 24 hours from Rochester, NY to Miami, FL! Thinking back, that trip was an eye opener and if I would stick to something, it could have opened many doors. While I don't call exactly when it happened, I remember my coach, Cheryl Holland, posted on Facebook about looking for women who wanted to collaborate and write a chapter in her upcoming book on overcoming unhealthy and toxic romantic relationships. As I had several relationships to pick from, I reached out to Cheryl and we had our phone interview as I drove to Miami, FL.  A short few months later - I became a published author... not just a published author but an Amazon #1 Bestselling Author! The book is called W.O.M.B. Sister Chronicles - Volume 1. W.O.M.B. stands for Women Overcoming Men Blues. We are 15 brave, courageous and vulnerable women who share intimate details on how we dealt with an unhealthy/toxic relationship and how we found the courage and strength to leave the relationship.  I encourage you to buy a copy! Here's the link - be sure you choose VOLUME 1 to read my story: www.wombsisters.com/products/?wpam_id=4 Again, be sure you choose Volume 1 (book 1).

So the book is done and we have a book launch November 2016... and that was that... sort of...  

Earlier in 2016, I created and started a life coaching business: MRD Empowerment Solutions. My vision was to inspire and empower women who were stuck, to live a free and happy life by discovering their own and unique voice. It's funny how everyone comes to you for advice and to talk - yet, when you need them the most - they are not there. As with anything we tend to venture towards, we look for support from our friends and family. Needless, to say, I became one of those stuck women I was so eager to help! I slowly backed off and shut everything down. Like a snail, I went back into my shell - my safe place.  

As I write this now [June 28, 2018], I realize that my number one reason for leaving Rochester, wasn't necessarily because of my daughter (middle one)... it was because I needed an escape. I was not happy. Nothing was working in Rochester and I felt "blah". I was working a job that I did not like.  My girls only get togethers, while many looked forward to it and often well attended, it wasn't what I truly envisioned. My children... one was grown with a child of his own and on his own and my middle one - she was also almost gone and my youngest, while 14, she was focused on her wants/needs... friends, school, social media, social life, shopping... you know, typical teenage stuff.  One of my three best friends was leaving the country and my other two BFF's were busier than ever - although we always made time for one another. I know Dude tried to do the best he could: That's the thing though, we have to figure things out for ourselves. Yes, having the support is important, but ultimately, we must do the work.

So here it was sometime in January, and my daughters and I were having a conversation about leaving Rochester and move to Florida as my middle child would be stationed in Pensacola, FL and her wife (then fiance) wanted to be closer to her... we made the decision to leave Rochester. After getting Dude on-board, I spoke to one of my long-time friends in FL about it and she suggested I stay with her until I found a job and could then find my own place. So that's what we did. I updated my resume, posted it on various online job boards, gave notice at my job, started packing and February 16, 2017, Dude and I made the journey to Sanford, FL - arriving February 17, 2017. He flew back to Rochester two days later.  We made the transition slowly: first me, then DIL, then kid, then Dude - who finally joined us November 2017.

If I could turn back time - I would. I would of stayed in Rochester, NY. As much as I dislike the snow, slush, cold, ice storms, blizzards, dreariness... nothing beats feeling like I'm lost.  And that's how I feel presently. I feel lost.  I'm in a state where I know several people - who live in different parts of the state, from a few hours to a few minutes.  And while I have met some nice folks, and I can see myself remaining friends with them for years to come... it is not the same.  The rut that I was escaping from in Rochester, followed me here.  I don't foresee myself ever moving back to Rochester. However, I remain open to whatever God sees fit for myself.  Especially since I never envisioned myself living in Florida!  Dude and I talked about leaving Rochester eventually, and FL was NEVER in the plan - ever!  We talked about the Carolina's, Virginia, Arizona, Maryland and maybe even Texas - but never FL. It just never appealed to me/us. YET - here we are.

So what happens next? Good question... 

I recently told Dude that I hate the fact that he truly loves his job! Why do I hate the fact that HE loves his job??? Because he left a job of 23 years in Rochester to follow my foolish desires and I cannot do that to him... I cannot rip him away [again] from something he enjoys because I cannot STICK TO SOMETHING!!!

URGH.

For now, I'll have to live with the decision I made. There is more to come - I know God has some awesome plans for me and I'm ready. There's a reason why the last line in the above paragraph is bolded, underlined and italicized. More on that in the next post.  Don't worry - it won't be two years from now.

Hugs and kisses,
MD

Trust

New day. New lesson. 

According to Merriam-Webster dictionary, trust is "belief that someone or something is reliable, good, honest, effective, etc"

What is a person to do when that trust is broken...and to make matters worse, you don't know the identity of said person?

The old me would curl up into the fetal position and isolate from society. I would shut down and become overly cautious with everyone around me. I've realized that is no way to live!

I'm the type that tends to over share; I over share with those that I believe I can trust and that have the best interest at heart for me.  I go into details about my goals, dreams, aspirations, heartaches, what keeps me up at night, job issues, marital conflicts, family concerns, etc. I talk about my life list, disappointments, fun times, and everything else in between.

Is that wise?

That is today's million dollar question!  Something was brought to my attention about something that someone did. And in all honesty, part of me wants to curl up into the safe fetal position and isolate myself.

Thankfully the sun is shining and I will not fall into old habits.  So this is what I will do...

1. Pray for inner peace
2. Pray for the identity of said individual to be revealed
3. Pray for clarity
4. Continue to trust - with caution
5. Stop over sharing 
6. Continue to smile
7. Hold on tight to the words in Luke 8:17

I am enough.

I. AM. ENOUGH.

It's a been a few months since my last post and there have been some changes. In this thing called life, change can be a scary thing; it pushes us out of our comfort zones. Change challenges us to be brave, to be authentic, to be bold; change is scary.  While change is scary, doing something that you don't want to do and living an unauthentic life is not only scarier, it's dangerous.  Dangerous because you are robbing yourself of living life according to your truths, strengths, and talents. Dangerous because you are living life wearing a mask.  Dangerous because the relationships you've formed, are not based on realism, but fantasy.  Dangerous because you are not living in your passion and creativity - but someone else's. 

Here's a brief summary of who I am.  At around age 15 I was placed in juvi - labeled a juvenile delinquent.  In and out of juvi homes, at the age of 16 I dropped out of school in the 9th grade.  I remember every detail of what occurred that morning.  A year and a half later I received my GED - while in juvi - as I vowed not to step foot into a city school again!  In terms of academics, here's how it went:

1989 - dropped out of high school

1991 - received GED

1993 - Certificate in General Office Skills obtained

2004 - Associate degree from MCC obtained

2014 - Bachelor's degree from RWC obtained

If I told you that I did not think that was good enough - would you believe me? If I told you that I still feel like a failure - would you believe me?

I started the journey towards the Master's program at RWC a few months after graduating with the Bachelor's.  I dropped after the first class.  A year later I re-enrolled and though I seemed happy about the decision and the new adventure, secretly, I was miserable.  Unlike the OM [Bachelor's major] program in which I looked forward to the assignments and seeing my group, the MSL [Master's major] program was different.  I was not excited about it. Externally, yes - I was. However, internally, from the beginning, I questioned if I was doing the right thing. Was I sure? Would this be enough? Would I be enough? Have I done enough? Will this prove that I am somebody? In spite of my past failures, would this validate me?

A while back I had a life coaching business.  One of the main points I encouraged and challenged individuals on, especially women, was to live an authentic and genuine life.  A life based on one's truths, strengths, and talents.  A life based on one's own voice - and not the voices, opinions, or views of others on how one should live one's life.  I wasn't living on the standards that I was teaching!  The conversations started with my close circle of friends and the prayers were on full force.  I knew deep down what I wanted - what I needed to do, but I was afraid.  I was afraid of letting people down. I was afraid of being seen as a failure.  I was afraid of being labeled a quitter.  I was afraid of people's views and opinions of me.  I was afraid of not being taken seriously.  I was afraid that I would not be enough.  I was afraid of letting down my husband, children, and my friends: the people that matter most to me.

And then...

While in conversations with my circle, the voices in my head were beginning to quiet down.  The truth was, that yes I would be letting them down; and I would also be letting myself down - if I continued living a lie.  If I continued living according to the views of others and not living in my passion and creativity - yes I would be letting people down. I would be letting down the people that matter most to me!

I stopped out of the Master's program - for the second and final time.  Have you ever wrestled with a decision and you were not sure if you would be making the right choice until after you made it? You know that feeling of lightness, peace, and stillness that overcomes you? I FELT IT INSTANTLY!  I knew I was not making a mistake.  I knew I was making the right decision - for ME!  

One of my friends said it best..."You only get one life".  

I've always had a passion and hunger for creativity!  I've talked about writing a book for quite some time and four chapters in, I will be refocusing my energies towards realizing this goal.  I will continue to write my book and see where life takes me.  Photography is another love of mine and I will dive into that adventure.  

I'm a life learner; whether in the classroom or whether in life - I never stop learning.  For today and for this moment I will live life to the fullest....with no regrets.

One click at a time - one keystroke at a time...

**I kindly ask that you share this piece.  Someone out there needs to hear - that she too, is enough** 

Stay fabulous and live life according to YOU!

-ME

A step forward

It's February!

Here we are, February 1, 2016! Thirty-two days ago we were celebrating as we rung in a New Year. We promised ourselves many 'new' things in the upcoming year.  How are you doing with those promises? How's the job hunt? How's the updating of your resume? How's weight loss coming along? Have you made peace with the past? Have you started writing your book? Have you looked in to the process of opening up a business?  Have you found a home church?

The beginning of a new year, month, week, day... comes with many possibilities.  Possibilities for a fresh and new start. Yet, shortly after, we give up.  Don't be too hard on yourself - it happens to us all.  I believe that if we keep the 'why' in forefront at all times, it will make the process more doable. Why do you want to lose weight? Why do you want to save money? Why do you want a new job? Why do you want to find a church home? Why do you want to move? Why do you want to buy a house? Why do you want to be in a relationship? Why do you want to leave a current relationship? Etc...

Keeping they 'why' in sight, will make the connection personal.  So if you've fallen or are falling off the wagon, it's okay. Stop, regroup, refocus, get back on - and keep pressing forward! You got this.

So as this is the beginning of a new month, take a moment and focus on the positive! You've accomplished something! Whether big or small, ever accomplishment counts.  Continue to focus on the positive and keep adding positiveness into your life. Don't shine the light on the negative.... When we focus on what we have accomplished and on our strengths, the weaknesses automatically diminish.

Happy February!

Til next time...
MD

Happy in 2016

Happy New Year!

2016 is here – no turning back. I can confidently say that I am glad and thankful to see 2015 in my rear view mirror.  Don’t get me wrong, 2015 was a nice year and many memories were created and several items were crossed off my bucket list. 

I obtained employment after being unemployed for 6 months, I visited 2 countries: Mexico and Dominican Republic, I started the journey towards my master’s degree; I surprised my husband for his 50^th birthday with a week of pampering, which ended with a surprise gathering with close friends.  Another exciting event of 2015 was that my middle child returned home after being away with her dad for 4 years!  My son made me a grandmother! And I also got to spend a lot of time with my close girlfriends.  Oh, I almost forgot one amazing 2015 event – I. Started. Swim. Lessons.  YES!!!  Over the past year my love of reading was unveiled and I read some amazing books.  I’ll list them below and I encourage you to take a look and see which, if any, may resonate with you.  A not so happy event in 2015 was that I decided to close down my MRD Empowerment Solutions coaching business.  Although it was a difficult decision to make, it was one that had to be done.  The time was not right. I am hopeful and confident that, God willing, MRD Empowerment Solutions will be back – and it will be more fabulous than I could ever have desired.  My husband, knowing how much I love photography, blessed me with a new DSLR Nikon camera and though I haven’t been out to take any photos, I am excited to get back to my creative side.

So moving on to 2016…

This year will be my year of abundance.  I am claiming that all areas of my life will be overflowing.  I will donate and travel more.  I will also save more.  I will have more time available to volunteer and create memories with my friends.  I will have more time to listen to my children’s laughter.  I will spend more quality time with my husband.  By the end of 2016 I will only have 2 classes left to finish my master’s.  Perhaps I’ll start looking into a PhD program! Kidding!  I do, however, plan to freely swim in the deep end.  Conversely, I plan on releasing at least 60 pounds.  I say release instead of lose because I don’t want to ever find them again! So I will release and let go.  2016 is a year of fulfillment.  Fulfilled goals – dreams realized.  It is a year of growth; a closer walk with Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior.  Growth in my marriage and a stronger relationship with my children.  2016 is a year of clarity.  No longer living under others expectations, but living according to my strengths, values, and deep desires.  2016 is the year for Happiness!  That is my mantra and my word for 2016. 

Happiness in all areas of my life!!!

What are you looking for in 2016? Share your comments below.

As always – stay Fabulous….

Happy in 2016 - Maryann

HERE's my list of awesome reads from 2015:

#girlboss by Sophia Amoruso

Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert*

The Life List: A Novel by Lori Nelson Spielman*

The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert*

The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer*

This Beautiful Life by Helen Schulman

The Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff*

The Next Thing on My List by Jill Smolinski

Have Your Cake and Eat It Too by Cheryl Holland

10 Things for Teen Girls by Kate Conner

The Lifeboat by Charlotte Rogan*

* My favorites and I'm certain I'll reread in the near future!