I’ve taken quite the lengthy break from blogging, but I have to say I really missed it. I had it on my mind all the time, thinking of things to post about, taking pictures, and keeping up with my fellow bloggers.

Even though I wanted to get back on here, I also really needed the time away – time to put the pieces of my life back together.

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I am definitely still figuring things out, adjusting to some changes, and becoming whole again. Despite all the shock, anger, pain, and sadness, I have really been able to reflect and become a stronger person. I feel like I know who I am better than I did just a few weeks ago, and for that, I can only be grateful.

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Besides the amazing support and love from my friends and family, I’ve really turned to running, music, and the inspirational words of others.

Long runs are the perfect way to be alone, feel my emotions, and sort through all my racing thoughts.

Even more so than normal, I’ve been blasting music. While I exercise, work, drive, and just relax, it’s not only my escape, it’s my way to not feel so alone in what I’ve been going through. There are so many songs with lyrics that speak the exact words I want to say, in ways I never would have thought to say them.

I have to admit, my girl Tay Swift has finally come in handy ;).

Being someone that is moved by the power of words, I’ve always been obsessed with motivational quotes. Recently, I’ve spent more time than ever looking through quotes and pinning on my beloved Pinterest.

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Here are some of the inspirational quotes that really stuck out to me and have stuck with me. These wise words have helped me to make sense of my situation and begin the journey that will lead me to a place that is even better than where I was before all of this.

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So, that’s kind of where I’m at.

I’m certainly not going to say I’m all better, or that I’ve been able to fully let go of the past and move on completely.

But I’m getting there, and I’ve learned a lot along the way.

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I learned that it’s okay to be fragile and fall to the ground and cry.

It’s okay to let it all out and scream and be angry.

It’s okay to close yourself off and really feel your emotions.

It’s okay to be broken and vent and ask for help.

It’s okay to not always be strong.

…For a little while.

And then I learned that after a few days (for me, it was three) of allowing yourself to do and feel everything you need to, there comes a day when it’s time to start  s l o w l y  putting the pieces back together again. That day should not feel forced. It should come naturally and feel right. Yes, it will be extremely hard and there will be plenty of moments when you find yourself breaking down again – and that’s okay. But you should feel ready to begin again.

Most importantly, I learned that just like a wound doesn’t heal instantly, neither do you.

It takes time to feel 100% again, and that’s okay.

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With time and a positive attitude…

I can, and I will, find happiness again.

I’m already starting to 🙂

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