Elevated life, elevated self

So many things have happened this year. I’ve found myself angry and saddened by 2019. Weighted down by grief and pain. As the months passed, I struggled to grip my new reality. I lost the most influential woman in my life. My beloved Grandmother. That alone broke me in ways I could never describe. Chronic pain and I continue our aggravating dance; three years in January. I reinjured my neck in late August, and am now 2 days away from surgery for it. I was hating that I had to put my brand new business on hold because of pain.
Self reflection is never easy. I found myself needing positivity to combat all the negative. I began going back to Church, and spending time with women who have beautiful spirits. I spent time alone. That was the most important thing I could have done for myself. I spent that alone time in meditation and prayer. What I found while reflecting on my 14 months here is this- I have made some amazing memories, healed and fostered better relationships with my family. I have had a lot of personal and spiritual healing that I didn’t know I needed. I also found that I don’t have time for people that bring negativity into my life. That was so very freeing. I have banished that from my life, and I cannot describe my sense of peace and rightness.
To honor my new life here, I’ve compiled a set of photos that document just a few of my adventures.

Enjoy.

My own backyard. Painted sunrise over the red rock.

High up in the mountains, the wildflowers bloom.

The “Christmas Tree” at Three Peaks recreational area. It has been there for as far back as I can recall. One of my top favorite stops.

Fall on the mountain. Wood’s Ranch, October.

Cedar Breaks National Monument. A very special place for me. I feel close to my God here.

Kanarra Falls hike, July.

I love spending time with my sister’s animals. Family farm, November.

View inside a Native American teepee. May.

There is beauty in the process of nature.

One day I will have the courage and strength to climb higher.

Dangerously beautiful landscape.

As I sit here compiling this blog, I am able to reaffirm the choices I’ve made. My life has been far from perfect, but I’m a believer in everything having a season. Spring is growth, tests in durability and beauty. I survived the late season frosts and windy days. I feel that my Spring has ended. I will breathe deeply as I take my first steps into the Summer of my life.