I went up to Banff this morning and spent some girl time with my cousin. She’s heading off soon on an adventure to Ireland. Heading off to live her dreams, I admire that so much.

One of the great things about family is that we can comfortably pick up in a relationship no matter how long it’s been since we’ve seen each other. Coming from the same stock and having a basic understanding of how we were raised helps bring us together even when time keeps us apart.

I realized today how much I need to get out and spend more time with my girlfriends. I have been reminded recently what an awesome tribe of women I have in my life and I need to celebrate those relationships more. I have been so focused on the kids, making sure they’re feeling safe and secure, that sometimes I forget to make sure that all my emotional needs are filled as well.

My girlfriend time today was a much needed boost to my confidence. I spent so many years being told how useless and pathetic I was, it is so wonderful to now be around people who celebrate who I am (and with whom I can do the same back to them).

With that in mind, I have decided it’s probably time for me to get a personal life as well. Life is meant to be enjoyed and I finally have healed enough that I believe I deserve to have someone in my life who treats me with love and respect.