Tribute Time

I've been on the edge of a downward spiral. I've been getting overwhelmed, feeling anxious and my elder-but-millenial-nonetheless need for instant gratification has been showing up around here way too often. What this often looks like is me being the opposite of mindful and present and just sitting around in front of the current task, ignoring it, and swimming in negative thoughts.

A few days ago this meant reaching over to Nick and saying "I'm in a funk. We're never going to finish this house. I don't have the time or money to make these rooms look the way I want them to." ::SIGH:: He blessed me with this golden nugget/reminder: "Babe, if you had all the money in the world and it were done tomorrow...then what? Remember Belmont [our first home]? What you loved was finishing a project that took you forever and celebrating it and photographing it. The longer this house takes, the more of that you'll have."

I know he's right and that made me smile. Then I got distracted by Halloween fun and, on the heels of that, you know, an ear infection that landed us at the pediatrician's and a lump that required a surprise vet trip (all is well!), etc.

But I've been thinking: I'm not the only one that struggles with doubts and personal growth challenge areas (like that positive spin?!). I'm usually really encouraged when others voice their challenges, regardless of whether or not they've figured out how to deal yet. I think there's something to be said about getting a chance to empathize with another human being, especially when all you can do is witness. It would be unusual for anyone to have all the solutions to another's problems.

So here's where I'm headed! I'm going to spend some time with women who have inspired me and share interview notes here every couple of weeks. My hope is that we get a raw and honest snapshot of some amazing human beings and, in witnessing each other's journeys, get inspired to continue on our own.

P.S. - I have no qualms with men and I've never felt comfortable labeling myself a feminist. My focus on women is simply based on the fact that, since leaving grade school, I have gravitated more toward them and I know so many that I think have so much to offer. So, to any non-women out there, send us a note if you' like to be interviewed as part of this feature. I love making new friends!