I told my girl recently the best way to learn was by doing. I believe that, because I’ve lived it.
If my 42 year-old self could go back to my 22 year-old self, at first thought I’d tell her what she should do different. But then again, I wouldn’t.
Because every move has led me to where I am today and I’m better for the lessons I’ve learned.
The only things I’d change are things I had no control over. I’d rather not have lived through hard losses, but I’m thankful for the years I had building memories and knowing love that made the voids so great.
Instead of telling my younger self to take a different path, I’d tell her to walk it more carefully.
I’d tell her to take more time to savor the small, because one day she’d realize that’s where the big really lies.
I’d tell her to dream big, because no dream was too big for her God.
I’d tell her it’s ok to be scared, but to jump the cliffs anyway – she has more strength than she realizes.
I’d tell her to stop measuring herself against others and stand tall in the unique person she was created by a God who doesn’t make mistakes.
I’d tell her to soak up the present, because the present is a gift.
I’d tell her to keep her circle small, tightly knit and treasure her true friends.
I’d tell her to not give up when things get hard, but let the hard be fuel to reap the rewards of pressing on.
I’d tell her that things in life worth having don’t come free. Handouts build dependence; hard work builds character. And the best things in life can’t be bought, so be content with what you have. Your treasures have hearts and souls (but it’s ok to splurge on boots. They have soles, too.)
I’d tell her to give herself and others more grace, it smooths our flaws. (And speaking of smoothing flaws, start using moisturizer on your face now. You’ll thank me.)
I’d tell her to just keep going and today I’m telling myself and anyone listening the same.
Today is a gift, y’all. Every day we open our eyes and take a breath is a gift. Let us use the time we have, living full while fully alive. If I get 42 more minutes or 42 more years, I pray I don’t forget that.
a few of our most loved youtube episodes!
SAYING GOODBYE
THAT ESCALATED QUICKLY
RAKIN' & ROLLIN'
GUTTING THE GLEANER
HAULIN' HAY
Hello!
Just found your blog while searching online for something related to House Autry.
Really love your recipes and also your down to earth, spiritual, common sense blog entries about life.
Looking forward to reading back through them.
Since I could not find my answer to the House Autry question I was searching for, I’ll bet you know the answer! So I’ll just ask it here if you don’t mind.
I have used their stone ground buttermilk cornbread mix for years. Not the cornmeal mix, I mean the lazy person’s box where you just add water lol
Can’t find it anywhere. Is this discontinued, do you know?
The Gift of Today is so true. Your genuine, down to earth person is so refreshing. No handouts are good, unless it is a true need. Keep on giving us your real life and your real family.
Thank you, Mary! We appreciate you being here. xx, mb