What A Year, 2017!

Goodbye to Another Year Passed

Wow, I cannot believe it'll be another year passed in a few days. I love that the start of a new year offers reflection on the past twelve months and what the new year brings in. 

Highlights

As I look back at 2017, I can honestly tell you it has been one of the best of my life. Crazy to believe since I took no trips, had not very much money, and really had no material goods. My needs always came second this year. And I loved almost every minute of it. My son came into this world. And I became a mother. I became a better wife, friend,  and just a better person altogether. My view came off my self and onto my family. 

Life Hack

As I write this post, I'm sitting at my kitchen table drinking my cold coffee, still wearing my pjs, feeding my son at his high chair, and haven't brushed my hair since yesterday. I feel run down as I've recently been transitioning my son into his crib in his room. And I've not had a full nights sleep in over two years. I'm feeling gross and tired. So, my life hack / maybe new year's resolution will be to make more time for myself. I've heard the saying "you can't pour from an empty cup." But, I'll say as a mom you do what you gotta do for your baby. And that means being an empty cup sometimes and still filling someone else's cup. I fully believe that when you do have a little of your own time and space that you are able to better parent. That's why for 2018 I'm going to make "me time" a priority and not feel guilty for it. 

Friendships

This year I've made my friendships a huge priority. Sadly in years passed I let them fall to the wayside. This past year, I've made a point to be a friend. To go out of my way for my friends and to make time for them. As a mother to a newborn, I felt the sinking feeling of loneliness. Wishing I had other women in my life to share my life with. My husband is my best friend, but he is not a girlfriend. And there is a huge difference there. I can't have him be my everything. So, I did the awkward thing and straight up asked some people I knew not so well out to lunch, coffee, for walks. And I will say it was wonderful. I've been truly blessed by my new friendships this year. I would highly recommend it if your feeling lonely. It really does take being a friend to have a friend. 

Marriage

My family is my number one priority. My husband, my son, their needs above mine always. Of course, my first year as a mother has been full of growth and knowledge. My marriage has really transformed in this new phase of life. It originally was a lot harder on our marriage as new parents. I struggled to balance my relationship with my husband with that of my son. But, as I grew and continue to grow, our  marriage has become like a rock. We lean on each other and have become better teammates. We are much less selfish than ever before and fully support each other in every aspect. It's not always easy. But, we both are growing and learning, and most importantly, loving. 

My Child

He has been the biggest blessing. Period. The end. Haha seriously, though. Being a Mom is hard, but it is the most beautiful thing I've ever done. He has been the highlight of every day since he has been born. Watching him grow has been so amazing. And having such a deep, unconditional love is like nothing I could ever put into words. The sleepless nights, the lack of showers, money, and self care have all been worthwhile as I see him flourish and grow. 

Health

This past year, I made some new changes. My diet has been very healthy the past few years and always maintained a fitness routine. Well, my first year as a mother, fitness has been anything but routine. Some weeks a I don't workout. But, I have made some little health changes. Like not wearing nail polish. All my makeup, lotions, and skin care items being organic. 

Self Image

For the first time maybe ever, I have looked at myself as beautiful. I have looked at my body as strong and capable. I have fought the desire to compare myself to anybody else. And my body and my mind has thanked me for it. It is so freeing to let go and embrace who you are. 

Goals

For 2018, as I said in my life hack, I'll be making time for self care. I'm going to start off with a month of yoga. An hour to myself 5 days a week will be transformative for me. Also, I'd like to make going to church a priority. I've made fellowship a priority this past year. But, let attending church fall to the side and have watched online. I want to continue to be a better mother, wife, and friend. 

Please, feel free to share, comment, or like! Would love to hear your reflection of the past year and ways to improve the coming New Year!

Happy New Years, Friends!

XOXO,

Jacqui