Taryn makes a habit

I’ll be honest, I used to hate the dreaded ‘S’ word. And by ‘S’ word, I mean schedule. Reflecting on this, I suppose it’s because of my control issues, but I’m working on those. I think. On my birthday — about 3 weeks ago– I decided that I would make a new habit

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Tale of the two journals

I keep two journals. One is my journal that hashes out my personal thoughts, day-to-day musings, etc. The other, is a prayer journal of sorts. It’s one where I chat with God, ask questions, ask for forgiveness, ask for help, and pray — so to speak. Both are incredibly personal and brutally honest. But, I suspect, God appreciates it when we come to Him honestly and openly.

Journaling regulalry does a mind good

I’ve journaled or have written things ever since I could read. Consistency has never really been my strong suit. This blog is a testament to that. I mean I have around 250 posts and we’re coming up on 7.5 years; yikes! Anyway, I’ve committed to writing every day for the last 3 weeks and boy, what a difference it makes! My headspace is a lot nicer. Who knew decluttering your mind would be so helpful?!

Habits aren’t so bad

I’ll admit, the first few days, it was a will-power of sorts that forced me to put pen to paper every day. Now, I can’t wait to spill my guts, happily sharing what’s in my brain with God and myself. There is so much peace when I rely on Him instead of my harebrained schemes. I’ve also found, that in the stillness of reflection, that He does answer my questions and prayers. I’m grateful for that relationship as it governs my relationship with those I regularly do life with. So now, I begrudgingly yet happily admit that I plan to continue my journals as the benefits far outweigh the discipline I need to maintain consistency.

On the road again

Speaking in the name of consistency, I’m happy to report that the third installment of the Taryn was here series will come out again on Monday on schedule. This coming week, I get to share with you my time in Missoula, MT. I do have more pictures that aren’t just of espresso cups, I promise! I didn’t stay long– about 3-ish days, but I did manage to pack some fun sightseeing while there. So stay tuned as we travel to Montana. Cheers!

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My mom, the badass

It’s Mother’s Day, and what kind of daughter would I be if I didn’t write an ode to my super duper awesome, one of a kind, mom? I could write a dissertation on why my mom kicks so much ass, but for the sake of time, I’ll try and condense is down to a blog post. In short, my mom is one of the most, if not the most influential people in my life– for better and for worse.  As someone who is fiercely independent and intelligent, I have to give credit to the lady who’s inspired me since day one. I also have to give her an immense amount of kudos for raising someone like me. So here’s why my mom is literally the best mom (for me) in the world!

It’s not easy parenting a “Taryn”

Since my escape from the womb, I’ve always been a conscientious objector. If you said “up”, I said “down”. You say “yes”, I say “no”. According to my mom, my favorite first words were “so what”. In addition to be a staunch contrarian, I also craved my independence, often opting to do things alone, being preoccupied with the world inside my head. I was relatively obedient, but I think it’s fair to say that out of all of my siblings, I was the odd one. God probably should’ve put a label on my behind that said “warning, this one is trouble”. Hehe

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Family circa 2004

So why am I telling you this?

Simply because, though I was/am a peculiar little dreamer with a wild imagination, intolerant of being controlled, my mom supported my choices and decisions, championing my hobbies and pursuits, with unconditional love. When I wanted to become a mad scientist– she bought me a chemistry set. When I discovered my love for writing– she bought me journals. She even supported my short story of an evil mom that I killed off with “canser” when I was around 6-7 (looking back at my childhood behavior, I think I displayed some signs of sociopathy, lol). She watched all of my basketball games, encouraged anything and everything I wanted to do. I am who I am today because my mom never put limitations on my potential, and I’m forever grateful for that.

Cheers to my mom…

for being such an incredible parent, and loving me in spite of all the grey hairs I’ve given her throughout the years. Though she’s in Germany, I think about that crazy lady all of the time. Thank you mom, for enduring me as an infant, and not putting me in an institution as an adolescent. Many could not do what you do! To all of the moms out there, Happy Mother’s Day!!!

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