You have often heard me say that life has its “seasons.” Some are new and exciting, others are difficult and heavy.

“True self-care is not salt baths, and chocolate cake, its making the choice to build a life you don’t need to regularly escape from.” - Brianna West

Have you heard the saying, “You're only as happy as your least happy child?” (for those without children you can insert a family member, partner, whomever you share a close emotional relationship with.)

Have you ever waited for the right time? To get married, have children, go back to school, change jobs, retire, get a divorce, change careers, write the book, buy the house, take the vacation, you get the idea. I always thought there was a right time for things.

I took myself on a walk and instead of my usual Podcast, I just let my mind wander. Do you ever do that? I am trying to unplug more these days. It’s a nice treat! Turns out, I’m pretty good company!

How many times have I sat with clients as they bravely say what is in their heart. Many times saying it out loud for the first time. Not the pretty packaged thoughts that are tied up in a bow, the tenuous frayed and scorched corners that they are convinced should not be there.

As I grow older (quicker than I like) I grow more understanding of what was. Maybe it’s because as I age I can see dad’s viewpoint? He passed away nine years ago, so I am nine years closer to his age.

There is something about an inspirational quote. You might know I collect them. Every now and then I like to relax, and review my collection.

I was coaching with one of my fantastic clients today. We had a rich conversation around the idea of being “behind.” Isn’t that just a terrible thought? Being behind?

It sounds pretty simple, being known. There are all kinds of ways to be known. One way is outwardly. To be known by others. Friends, work colleagues, family, pastors, neighbors, acquaintances, people in your orbit.

When my family was young and I was on the go all the time, I had a lot of balls in the air. I used to joke that I’d LOVE to feel lonely, puleeese just for a day??. I’m a kidder.

I walk around with a sound track in my head. I think we all do. Sometimes it’s funny (ok, mostly it’s funny!) Sometimes it’s rested and in the moment. Sometimes it is anticipating an upcoming event or project. Sometimes it’s filled with gratitude and hope.

Today I am talking about Life Design. I’ll say it again, LIFE DESIGN. Ok doesn’t that sound phenomenal? The idea that you can design a life you desire. WHAT?

So I was at dinner last night with friends, and the subject of empty nesters came up. Life’s seasons tend to accumulate. The next steps come into focus, and for many it's empty nesting, when the last of the "chicks" flies off into the world.

It’s the WORST… am I right? One of the hardest things we do as parents (whether you have your own kids or have stepped into the role for others) is to watch our children encounter the rough spots in life.

What is all this business about being stuck?

Honestly (and I am aware this is most likely my coaching community) everything I read, and hear people going on about is being stuck.

One topic has stayed with me (does that happen to you? After a conversation, do you revisit what was shared and continue to “chew “ on it?) I do. Especially the really meaty ones. I’m deep you know!

I was writing recently for my social media post (are you getting those? Find me on Instagram below, I'm hysterical!) about the concept of “relationship hygiene.”

I had a conversation about the idea of the “compassionate lie” with my dear friend the other day. We disagree.

The more I think I know, the more I realize I don’t know. Anyone with me on that one (and it doesn’t escape me, probably not the words you want to hear from your life coach, am I right?) Stay with me.