Goodbye 2016…hello 2017!

2016 was a year of highs and lows. I made a decision in January of this year, that I would do me. I no longer will say yes to appease or make someone else feel better. If it didn’t work for me, I wouldn’t do it or attend it. Of course, this new attitude didn’t apply to being a mother(four girls) or a wife(together since 17). I am referring to my side hustles, associations and anything outside of my immediate circle. If it was going to take away time from my family and not return a profit or tangible benefit, it wasn’t going to happen. I realized in 2015, so much time was being placed on something that returned nothing but emptiness and stress.

I decided to become a better mother, because regardless of how amazing we think we are, there is always room for improvement. I volunteered to coach my youngest daughter’s basketball team and recently started a regimen for better eating and exercising. I can’t expect my girls to be at their best, while I languish in poor eating habits.

I’ve thrown myself into my craft by taking more photography classes, updating my tools, traveling for inspiration and networking with those outside of the Plus circle. It’s been a breath of fresh air and I am almost back to the person I was b.k.(before kids). I no longer feel guilty to take five days for myself and do me. (Miami was amazing!)

2017 is an important year for my family and I. My oldest daughter is graduating from college and moving to California. My husband and I are turning fifty, as mom is turning 80. I will officially launch my photography studio. There will be more selfish moments that include seeing friends and family, traveling, upgrading my camera and maybe a trip to Tuscany. I will continue to add my “special” occasion only handbags, shoes and clothing into my everyday wear. The same goes for the “good” china and crystal.

I share this because I don’t want anyone to let life pass them by. If there is something you are passionate about…start working on it. If there is someone you love…tell them. If there is a place you want to see…go. Don’t build a volume of regrets, build memories.

To my dear Tia Lidia and friend, Joy Ashley, you will always be in my heart. I still tear up when I think of you but you’ve inspired me to move forward with gusto and elegance. I need to be more like you. You will never be forgotten.

Here’s to 2016…I’m ready 2017!