Welcome to 2023 and into my home…

When I visualize in my head what I’ve built with my life and my relationships, I imagine a house. 

From the outside looking in, others may see a house built with a sturdy foundation. Strong brick walls that are held together by high-quality mortar. A home surrounded by a nicely cut lawn and flowering bushes. The view that is seen by the masses as they drive by.

Can you relate? From the outside looking in does it appear you have a firm foundation with a house that others would envy? What’s hiding behind that facade?

Welcome, and come take a glimpse into my home.

Those that knock at my door are welcomed in. They may see a home with nice but not high-end furnishings as they enter. Some work has been done to update, but there are still areas showing time and living have taken their toll. If they look a little deeper they may see the hairline cracks in the tile caused when drought shifted the foundation. On the walls, they see positive sayings, colorful decor, and pictures with smiling faces. I have allowed them a glimpse into my world by opening the front door. A way to see only what I am comfortable showing them.

There are only a few that ask to stay longer. It forces me to allow them more time to look deeper and see behind the facade of what I show to the world. They see the mess behind closed doors. If they take a deeper look they may find what has been hidden or what is needing to be cleaned. They may find photos that no longer show just happy times. I’ve put my trust in them and our relationship and I’ve allowed myself to be vulnerable and opened up to be judged by others.

Writing this blog is me opening my home to all of you. Showing you what’s behind closed doors and making myself vulnerable. 

As the new year starts, I look forward to this fresh start. I’m pulling up the window shades. Opening all the doors and windows. Letting the light back in. Welcoming my friends and family.

I’m going to look at the foundation of my house and remind myself that those cracks, the worn areas, and the messes are all a part of my journey, but they don’t define me. It’s time to move past the feelings of being overwhelmed, afraid of judgment, and scared of the unknown.

It’s time for action and the home improvement list keeps growing. I’m excited to tackle all the projects. I’m anticipating a year of tearing down walls and filling the dumpster with all the negatives. I’m ready to trust myself and those around me. 

Come knock on my door and it will be opened to you!