Dream Big

I'm taking a little break from the Christmas cards today.  I threw this one together a long time ago...and I believe it may even still be sitting on my craft table.  The Chevron Strips Die is an MFT Die-namic Die.  Gosh how I have fallen in love with MFT and their dies this past year.   The sentiment is from MFT 6th Birthday Celebration Sentiments set.  You'll definitely be seeing more of this set in the coming weeks.

I love the simplicity of this card, and I'm sure its on my craft table so that I remember to make more like it at some point. 

As many of you who read my blog know, I use this space for reflection and updating my family on what has been going on in our lives.  I have to tell you, these past 8 weeks or so have been a time of major reflection and growth for me personally.  And right in the middle of it all, I had an AHA moment!

It was exactly one year ago on December 4th when I had a nervous breakdown...total and complete meltdown.  At that point, I wasn't even sure I was going to make it to Christmas, never mind make it to this Christmas!  But, look at me now!  I can honestly say that I am the happiest and most satisfied with my life that I have been since I can remember.  I am trying new things, and learning about what I like and don't like, and I am teaching my children that it is okay to put you first.  I have learned that I cannot control how someone else feels, and that happiness comes from within and that no matter how hard I try, I cannot make someone else happy.  And I am laughing...a lot...because it makes me feel good! 

For years, I struggled with depression and anxiety, and really questioned my decision to become a mother and whether or not I had it in me to be a good one.  You know what?!?  I am a damned good mom and I love my kids more than I can say.  And I don't question that, it's a fact and there isn't anything anyone can say to make me not believe it anymore.  I am succeeding on my own and have made some great friends along the way.  I don't think words can properly convey just how different I feel from this time last year. 

So, for those who came long for the journey this past year, I'm giving you a great big virtual hug {{}}.  Thank you for sticking with me, for being my friend even when I wasn't sure what the heck was going, while I made mistakes, learned new things and grew personally.   I'm so excited to think what the next year has in store for me.  I hope you'll all stick around for that too!

Danielle