It’s been a while…

…and A LOT has changed.

I’ve taken a time to rest, recouperate, and refresh myself.

Some of that involved traveling and other experiences.

Amazing Macaroons in Key West

One of my Favorite Places: The Open Ocean

And some of that involved embracing the reality that every phone call/email/request is NOT a priority.

I’ve slowed down my schedule, spent more time in my gardens, and taken more moments to stop and smell the flowers.

Growing Bearded Irises in Our Backyard Garden

I’ve also stopped committing to outings/events that I used to accept out of self-assigned obligation and I’ve embraced the art of saying, “No.” At the same time, I dedicated more time to the people, places, and things that make my heart smile.

After Brandon’s stay in the ICU, this was definitely needed. A few other things took place that made this changed perspective an even higher necessity (we’ll get to that later).

I made a decision that my family would come first, even if that decision only revolved around 2 people…. But that’s another upcoming change…

Update: Here’s our registry info for those who have asked https://www.amazon.com/baby-reg/brandon-henry-francinia-henry-september-2019-neworleans/6I2DHXCZSH10

As an expecting mother, my ideas of who/what matters has already evolved drastically.

I refuse to stress myself with those who aren’t loving and supportive and I have no tolerance for situations or environments that are mentally, physically, or emotionally draining.

My greatest lesson in all of this is that sometimes the “life of abundance” that we’ve always desired is actually found in living a life of LESS— less over-commitment, less activity, less stress– just less of those things that occupy too much of our time and keep us from welcoming the things that will truly enhance and enlighten our lives.

John 10:7-10

New International Version (NIV)

⁷ Therefore Jesus said again, “Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. ⁸ All who have come before meare thieves and robbers, but the sheep have not listened to them. ⁹ I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture. ¹⁰ The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

The term “abundant life” comes from the Bible verse John 10:10b, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” “More abundantly” means to have a superabundance of a thing. “Abundant life” refers to life in its abounding fullness of joy and strength for mind, body, and soul.