Day 21...Future Self. Imagine yourself five years from now. What advice would you give your current self for the year ahead? (Bonus: Write a note to yourself 10 years ago. What would you tell your younger self?)

Imagine yourself 5 years from now.  What advice would you give your current self for the year ahead?

-I will be 42 years old
-Teuvo will be graduated and long gone
-Louie will be 12 years old
-The house will be sold

Do what 'passions' your heart or at least start to make some plans.  Now that you've been an 'empty nester' for a while, do you like what your life looks like? Re-assess and Re-prioritize; making time for the activities that give you life.  Mary needs you.  Although you're not comfortable with the whole death process and it brings sadness, disappearing confuses people.  Louie... he's getting up there in years, give yourself a year to be free and really think about and discuss the pros and cons before adopting another 4 legged friend.  Make the decision to exercise regularly...and do it...no excuses!

Bonus letter...written to me from 10 years ago...

Dear Nicole;
  How are you?  I realize you worry a lot and don't seem too happy in life right now, maybe even kind of depressed!  Physically, you are where you need to be; embrace it!  There is a plan and a purpose and what you're doing right now is part of the bigger picture.  I know, life isn't how you imagined it to be but its not all bad-look around and take note of all there is to be thankful for!  You are a good mom and a great wife!  You have a network of friends who care for you, who support you not only as a mom and wife but as a person...as a woman!

...it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove...but the world may be different because I was important in the life of a child.
                                                                                  -Author Unknown

  You need to 'chill' and just be you!  Accept who you are...do not be afraid of who you are!  Remember who created you and He is good!  You have been forgiven and you are forgiven.  You are loved unconditionally...love yourself.  Quit beating yourself up!

When you feel down, look at yourself through God's eyes.  There are times when no matter how hard you try, you just can not accept yourself as you are.  During such times, think of how you look through God's eyes.  There is no judgment, there is only acceptance.  God sees your light when all that you see are shadows.  God loves you more than anyone could ever love you as you really are.
                                                                                -FB

The woods would be very silent if no birds sang accept for those than sang the best.  Do not wait, the time will never be 'just right.'  Start where you are, work with whatever is at your command, and better tools will be found as you go along.
                                                                                -FB
 
  God really loves you and is constantly at work for your good, so, when the hard times strike, remember these truths.  Look around to remind yourself how blessed you are... regardless of the troubles.  Life is a trip, an exciting journey where there is always something to be thankful for.  Find your smile! 

  God is with you all day, everyday...he knows everything so keep pressing in.  He'll answer your prayers, soften hearts...even yours, and his timing is perfect, absolutely perfect.  Things may not turn out the way you want but God's plan is perfect!  He will give you everything you need when you need it!  Believe it and you will see!  Believe!  Trust!  Walk by faith!

Lots of love,
Nicole