*Looking back over “old” pics, listening to “old” & new music – great music* …Been reflecting for the past few days. Laid down last night with so much on my mind. Not feeling like I’m worthy of some things. Listening to others’ stories, how hard others may have it, what they’ve been through, etc. …and it makes me want to step it up that much more. Makes me appreciate what I have & not stress over lil things. (It’s nice to be reminded of that.) Thank You to all those who have been a friend to me, whether you gave me some encouragement, tagged me in an inspiring video, or just had a brief conversation with me. You never know how you can affect other people & uplift them. *The little things*

I know that I hold a lot in – as far as the “not so good stuff” on the internet. I never want to come off as this person who complains, wants others to feel sorry, and in turn put that negative energy on others. So I’d rather use social media to throw out positivity to connect with people. On the other hand, there’s got to be an appropriate way to share my trials with you all in a constructive way too. I am working on it 🙂

I’m sorry if this blog is all out of order. Lol. I’m just thinking out loud. Today is my 27th birthday. It’s funny cuz I say “I’m getting old!” lol but I have so much more life to live… So many more things I want to do… So many more people I want to reach. “27” sounds “old” in my head lol but the reality is I have so much more growing to do! It’s not until you’re out on your own, or still having to depend on people when you start to realize, “I’m not done yet.” (And even then, I believe you will always need others. Any age. There’s ALWAYS room for growth.) So I’m thankful for my support system: Your love, generosity & efforts are not taken for granted. This hard work will NOT be in vain. God has truly blessed me with good people surrounding me. Good people with big hearts. I can only hope to return the love & make you proud every chance I get…

I have yet to experience “hate” from people – I get so much positivity  from others. That’s rare for some people. So I thank ya’ll. Thank you for the birthday wishes. The prayers. The motivation. Your thoughts. I would not be where I am without the support and love from others.

I don’t know if I have a closing statement or a point I’m trying to make with this, but I felt the need to share my thoughts today… I pray my sister, Erin & nephew, Makai have a beautiful day. A Very Happy Birthday to you both…

Makai, I know you’re getting big and I wish I could see you and your brother & sister more. I miss all of my nieces and nephews so much. Ya’ll are our future 🙂 Know your auntie is always thinking of you guys…Love you!

Sister, you mean the world to me. I wish I was with you to celebrate another year. (This is our 2nd bday apart! But that’s okay. 🙂 We’re growing up & are going down our own paths. That’s life 🙂 Keep making me proud and always being a great example for me & others. I’ve said it before and will continue to say it: You are an Amazing Woman. YOU inspire me. I learn from YOU. You have a beautiful spirit… I miss you. Have fun today. Wish I could see your face… xoxo

…So, I woke up feeling good – better than when I laid down last night. Thank you Lord for allowing me to see another day. Another day to renew my mind. Reflect. Learn. Change. Grow. Touch. Help someone else. Help myself. Thank all those who have been so kind enough to call me, send a bday wish, or get me a gift. 🙂 I’m so grateful… Trying to embrace 27. Embrace life. Remembering that: It’s okay to not be where I want yet, but to keep working towards it. And most importantly, APPLYING what I’ve learned. Doing good because I’m supposed to. Anything else is a sin, right?

I’m content.

Smiling, always. Tears of joy 🙂

~AshleYYY

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AshleYYY