Hello October.
Hello Fall. Hello hot cups of coffee. Hello new month, new day.
Full circle. Today marks one year since I quit smoking. I never envisioned myself here, today, a non-smoker. God that feels good to say. I am hella proud of this accomplishment, this new way of being in the world. It is a true weight lifted off of my shoulders.
October is my favorite month of the year. I had grand plans for my birthday, but life happens, and it looks like I will be single parenting for the next month while Z and his mom take care of my father in law's affairs in Montenegro.
My best friends have assured me that there will be a celebration for my 40th and I've surrendered ... thrown up my hands ... given it up to the powers that be ... and am open to receiving the good things they have in store for me.
I am just back from Squam in the City and it was fabulous! It was an urban retreat, so there was a LOT of walking the city streets with our cameras. I will have so much more to share once I process all of my photos. I met so many cool people, had a reunion with my sister-friends, and I had my family join me on the last night, just because. They got to meet my Squam family and the connections feel all the more deeper for it.
I want to say: Bravo, Elizabeth! You created an amazingly funky, fun, and restorative retreat for us. You rocked it + I love you.
+++++
click pic to go to Gallery 22 {Stars} at 52 Photos Project
I have decided that CELEBRATE will be my accompanying word this month and to kick things off, I believe a brownie pie is in the cards this evening to mark the occasion ;) you know, being a non-smoker and all...
A calendar is being printed as I type this and on each day I will write one super fun activity for myself and Angie (if she wants to join me) to do. It can something from mundane to extraordinary - anything goes as long as I celebrate each day this month. You know why? Because life is GOOD.
And you get to watch the celebration unfold here at the blog where I will be showing up everyday (eek) and on Instagram with hashtags (one borrowed from Hannah Marcotti!)
#31daycelebration #thisismy40 #birthdaymonth
Thank you, the ones who come by and read or leave comments, for being a part of my journey.
I feel like things are only just beginning for me.
I made some wishes. I said them out loud to friends. I have actual photo work lined up (what!?). I see only good things ahead. I feel renewed in a sense.
Today is a great day. I hope you have pockets of light, positivity, and warmth in your day as well. Namaste.