Category: Just ‘Cause

Finding Serenity at Lake Junaluska

My kids are gone and I needed a change of scenery, a chance to breathe.  That’s how I found myself at Lake Junaluska, a place whispered about with hushed reverence.


Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lake Junaluska is more than just a pretty picture.  It’s a haven of tranquility, a place where the gentle rhythm of the lake whispers promises of peace.  Fresh mountain air filled my lungs, replacing the stale smog that had settled on my soul.


The day unfolded in a slow, calming dance.  The morning began with gentle yoga on the dew-kissed grass, the rising sun painting the sky in hues of hope.  A long walk along the lake’s edge became a moving meditation, the rhythmic sound of water lapping at the shore a soothing balm for my troubled mind.The evening was filled with quiet reflection, curled up with a good book in my cozy room in the inn. 


Lake Junaluska isn’t just about the breathtaking scenery, though that certainly plays a part.  It’s about the community, a gentle tapestry woven from threads of kindness and understanding.  A simple conversation with a fellow guest, a shared smile with a stranger passing by – these tiny connections reminded me that I wasn’t alone on this journey.


As I leave this haven of peace, I carry with me a renewed sense of hope.  The mountains may be fading in the rearview mirror, but the serenity they instill lingers within.


Healing is always possible, sometimes in the most unexpected places.  So, if you’re searching for a place to mend your heart, a place to reconnect with yourself, I urge you to consider the magic of Lake Junaluska.  It might just be what your soul needs.

The Gentle Art of Giving: Why Caring for Others Mends My Broken Pieces

There’s something about taking care of others that fills me with silent joy. Maybe it’s the way a warm cup of soup chases away their sniffles, or the sight of their eyes crinkling with a smile after a listening ear. Whatever it is, nurturing others has become a cornerstone of my life.


But here’s the thing: for a long time, I didn’t realize why this act brought me such peace. It wasn’t just about being a good friend or family member. It was about a deeper healing within myself.
You see, somewhere along the way, I missed out on receiving the kind of care I craved. Maybe it was a lack of emotional support, or perhaps unfulfilled needs in my younger years. Whatever the reason, a part of me yearned to feel cherished and nurtured.


And then, I discovered the magic of giving. By showing up for a friend going through a tough time, or simply offering a shoulder to cry on, I was unknowingly filling a void within myself.
It’s like this: when I care for others, I’m showing myself what I wish I had received.  The compassion, the empathy, the act of simply being there – these become a balm for my own unhealed wounds.


It doesn’t erase the past, but it allows me to rewrite my internal narrative. I’m no longer the one waiting to be taken care of, but someone strong enough to offer care.  And in that act of giving, I find a piece of myself I never knew was missing.


This doesn’t mean I neglect my own needs. Self-care is still crucial. But taking care of others has become a way for me to practice self-love in a different form. It’s a reminder that kindness, compassion, and nurturing are powerful tools, not just for others, but for ourselves as well.


So, the next time you find yourself drawn to help someone, take a moment to appreciate it. Maybe, just maybe, you’re not just helping them, but nurturing a part of yourself that needs a little extra TLC.

Squad Goals: My Besties Showed Up for My Daughter’s Birthday Dinner (and It Meant the World)

Birthdays are a big deal in our house if you haven’t noticed already, especially for my little ones. My daughter wanted a fun dinner with her favorite people: her family and, of course, her “aunties” (and “uncle”), and cousins – my amazing best friends and their children.


Life can get hectic, and with busy schedules, I wasn’t sure if everyone would be able to make it so last minute. But as luck would have it, my friends rearranged their evenings, juggled pet sitting duties, and braved rush hour traffic to be here.


The moment they walked in, the smiles on my daughter’s face lit up the room. It was pure joy. We feasted on chicken, rice, green beans, mashed potatoes, rolls, salad, cake and ice cream, laughed until our sides hurt, and reminisced about old times. But beyond the birthday fun, what truly touched me was their presence. It’s a beautiful thing to have friends who show up for you, not just for the big milestones, but for the everyday moments too.


Seeing my daughter surrounded by these incredible people who love and support her – that’s the kind of birthday memory that will stay with her forever. And for that, I’m eternally grateful. 🫶🏾

Happy 14th Birthday Sunshine!

I can’t believe you’re already a teenager! It feels like just yesterday you were a little girl, and now you’re blossoming into a young woman.


I’m so proud of the kind, compassionate, and intelligent person you’re becoming. You have a bright light that shines wherever you go, and I can’t wait to see what incredible things you accomplish.


To celebrate this special day, we’re off on an adventure to Busch Gardens and Water Country USA! I can’t wait to see the joy on your face as we ride the roller coasters, splash around in the water park, and make more unforgettable memories together.


Have a fantastic birthday, my love! I hope it’s filled with laughter, thrills, and everything that makes you happy.


Love always,
Mum

Finding My Calm: Choosing Peace

People mean well. “Therapy?” they ask. “Maybe some medication to sleep?” I appreciate the concern, but this time feels different. This time, I crave a different kind of healing.


Instead of reaching for a sleeping aide, I’m focusing on regaining inner peace. It’s not a walk in the park. Some nights, the silence screams memories, and anger threatens to erupt. But slowly, I’m incorporating practices that bring a sense of calm.


Meditation offers a 20-minute sanctuary each morning. I focus on my breath, not erasing the pain, but acknowledging it and letting it go. Time spent outdoors is my grounding force. The fresh air, sunshine, and rhythm of my steps against the vastness of the sky put things in perspective. Journaling has become a release. On paper, I pour my heart out – the good, the bad, the ugly. It allows me to process emotions and start making sense of it all. Laughter truly is the best medicine. Spending time with my children and friends, reminiscing and creating new memories, reminds me of the love and support that surrounds me.


It’s a journey, not a destination. There will be good days and bad days. But by choosing peace over a prescription, I’m taking control of my healing. I’m allowing myself to feel the emotions, but I’m also actively choosing practices that nurture my well-being.


So, if you’re going through a tough time and considering medication, I urge you to explore all your options. There’s a power in finding peace within yourself, a strength that comes from embracing the journey, not numbing the pain.

Birthday Getaway to the DMV: Healing Hearts and Having Fun!

Buckle up for a whirlwind adventure! Today, we’re trading tissues for birthday cheer as my soon-to-be-14-year-old daughter, my son and I embark on a DMV getaway to celebrate her special day.  Yes, it comes on the heels of a not-so-happy breakup, but sometimes, a change of scenery and quality time with your favorite people is the best medicine.


We’ve got a fun weekend planned, filled with exploring the amazing museums in DC (future scientists and artists unite!), conquering the cherry blossom trees (hopefully they’re still blooming!), and maybe even a boat ride on the Potomac.


Of course, a birthday trip wouldn’t be complete without some fun surprises.  We’re keeping some things under wraps, but let’s just say there might be a delicious cake from a local bakery, a movie marathon in our PJs (essential for any teen, I’m told!), and maybe even a spa night complete with questionable face mask choices and uncontrollable laughter.


This trip isn’t just about celebrating my daughter’s birthday, though that’s definitely a priority.  It’s also about creating new memories, sharing some laughs (and maybe a few tears – happy ones, this time!), and reminding each other that we’re a team.


Sure, a breakup can throw a wrench into things, but it doesn’t have to cancel the fun.  We’re approaching this trip with open hearts and a sense of adventure.  Who knows, maybe amidst the museums and monuments, we’ll both discover a little bit of healing and a whole lot of joy.


Here’s to strong moms, adventurous children, and the magic of birthday celebrations that mend hearts and create lasting memories.  Stay tuned for updates from our DMV adventure!

Taking A Step Back

Let’s talk about no contact after a breakup. It feels weird, right? Like slamming a door shut on a maybe, a what-if. But here’s the thing I’m starting to realize: sometimes, that’s exactly what you need to heal.


This breakup is fresh, and the temptation to text or to call is constant. It’s like a scab I keep picking at, keeping the wound raw. No contact is about stopping that cycle, giving myself space to breathe.


It’s not about punishment or forgetting them entirely. It’s about creating space to grow, to rediscover myself. Who am I, outside of that relationship? What makes me happy on my own?


Maybe with this time apart, I’ll see things clearer. Maybe the rose-colored glasses will fade, and I can see the relationship for what it truly was.  No contact might even help me appreciate the good while acknowledging why it didn’t work out.


Honestly, no contact is scary. But staying stuck in a loop of emotions is scarier.  I deserve the space to heal, to move forward.  And who knows, maybe down the line, things will be different. But for now, the focus is on me. On healing, on emerging stronger.