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I once read that after delivering a baby, a woman has an over whelming psychological need to tell the story of the birth of her child over and over again. I know I have personally done this. Ask Blake. He has made it to six of seven births and while holding our newborn, I tell him everything that happened like he wasn't standing next to me.
We want to share those important moments with everyone around us. Those moments shape our life, they change our path, the inspire us, they make the person we see in the mirror. Big moments, little moments, ordinary, extraordinary, happy, sad. The best way to understand someone else? Learn their story.
We all have a story. Sometimes the best stories are the hardest to share. If you know me, you know I can't keep my mouth shut. I talk, a lot. There is little I won't tell the world. The last 3 years of my life have been something I don't like to talk about unless I absolutely have to. Long story short, we had a business we loved with clients who truly became family. And then, we lost our home trying to keep the doors open. Next came shutting the doors. We were homeless for three weeks, sleeping on the floor of a family members house until we could find a place to live. Our children lost all their toys, had to stop playing sports, and move into a hole in the wall 1000 square foot apartment. Nine people and one rescue dog in barely enough space to sit down in. My children have had Christmas the last two years because of the kindness of strangers and friends. I walk most places I need to go because my van has decided to retire. Some nights I cry myself to sleep because my children deserve so much better than the life we have provided for them.
But every day, those darn beautiful, wonderful kids are grateful. Grateful for each other, thankful for electricity and running water, glad to have a roof over their head, and they are happy. Losing almost everything helped us find happiness and we didn't find it in a huge house, fancy car, expensive clothes or the newest toys. We found it in our family. We found it in the moments when we kneel to pray together and knowing that we have each others backs. We found it in the knowledge that no matter how far apart we are in distance, our heart is strong with the love we feel for one another.
When I first saw Origami Owl, it jumped at me. I had to share it with others because I could wear it every day as a reminder of my happiness, my inspiration, and my joy. The moments I want to quit and give up, eight faces push me forward. I get to wear my joy and share my story.
What is your story? Tell me what you have in your locket or what you would put in your locket if you don't have one yet and why. Send me a picture. You could win a medium gold locket.
Here is mine. Faith, Family, and a home.
The diamond ring represents my husband of 15 years and my 7 beautiful children.
The apple reminds me of my grandmother. She would call them magic apples. You eat one of the magic apples and it will make you happy. I learned from her that happiness was my choice.
The flag of the country I love! Books were my first best friend. And the Effel tower reminds me to dream.
