August Check-In: Growth, Goals & Gratitude

 We’re already a week into August, and I’m feeling excited and energized about what’s ahead. I’m now working full-time on my writing while finishing up my degree—graduation is coming this December! So many doors are beginning to open, and I’m more motivated than ever to walk through them.

This career path is no joke—it takes a lot—but it’s absolutely worth it. God has truly been good to me. Even when my health tries to slow me down, I keep pushing forward because I have goals to meet before the year is out—and I’m almost there.

There’s still one more court hearing coming up for my divorce. It’s been a long, exhausting process, but I’m praying this will be the final one. I’m ready to move forward, fully and completely. I’ve already started living my new life, but I’m more than ready to close that book for good.

It recently hit me that I’m turning 30 in less than six months. That realization lit a fire in me—there’s still so much I want to accomplish. But I’m proud of who I am today, and everything I’ve made it through to get here.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

As for life in Atlanta, Jay is doing well. He’s healthy, growing, and officially taller than me now! He’s been approved to stay in his current long-term care facility for another 100 days. We’ve been holding monthly team meetings and family therapy sessions, and it’s brought us closer together. While he still struggles with behavior, the staff really cares, and I feel supported. It’s been a full year since he’s been home, and while that still hurts, I know he’s where he needs to be right now. There’s no rush—we want to bring him home when the time is right.

. . . . . . . . . .

Mia just started kindergarten! She’s so mature for her age and already misses her old friends, but she’s adjusting well. She’s already ahead with her schoolwork, so I make sure her room is set up with her favorite things and her tablet is charged and ready when she gets home. It helps ease that transition, and I love that she rides the bus with her sisters—it gives me a little peace of mind. I still go outside every morning and afternoon to greet them. They’re growing up so fast.

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

KeKe is a full-on teenager right now—mood swings, attitude, the works! She mostly comes around when she wants something, but I still pop into her room to bother her and remind her I’m here. My goal is to keep the door open for communication, and so far, all the girls feel free to express themselves. I love that about them.

. . . . . . . . .

Andri just started her final year of elementary school. She keeps asking to be homeschooled—and Mia has mentioned it too—but I’ve had to gently say no for now. As much as I’d love to give them that, this is my time to focus on myself. I’ve waited until they were older to pursue my dreams, and now it’s time for me to shine. If they see me chasing my goals, I KNOW it inspires them to do the same.

. . . . . . . . . . . 

Andri tells everyone I’m famous and says we’re rich now. And honestly? In my eyes, we are. We have a home, food, support, savings, clothes, and everything we truly need. We have each other—and that’s what matters most. 💕💕