Five Simple Things (February 19)

Hello. ♥

On Valentine's Day this week we took a road trip up to Tombstone Pass to enjoy the snow. It gave us a chance to get out of the Willamette Valley for awhile and escape. The snow up on the pass was deeper than we expected, but it was a lot of fun playing in it and enjoying the day. We also took a short road trip to Cape Kiwanda to have lunch and enjoy the coastline. We didn't do any surfing, but we did walk along the beach and took in the moment. I have started being more present in what we do and I'm glad at how far I've come in the last few years. Self love is becoming more easily for me and I am liking how I feel. I still get tired easier than I used to, but I think it's because I need the rest. I read a quote online a few months ago that read, "Instead of wondering why you're so tired, start asking, why does my body need so much rest and listen to it." I find that interesting and truthful. You aren't tired for no reason. You're tired because you need the rest. It's the positives like that, turning statements around, that has helped me stay the course into a better state of mental health. Here are five things this week.

1. These Pineapples.

On these cold and winter days I like to gather things that make me think of summertime, or look at pictures and it gets me through the winter months. The blahs of the winter season can take a toll on mental health and bits of positives are s helpful and remind you that better days are ahead and will soon be here.

2. These Hearts.

My cheese puffs this week reminded me that love is actually all around us if we just look.

3. This Lunch.

After our lunch in Cape Kiwanda we took a short stroll on the beach front before heading back home. I was a nice getaway and gave us a chance to enjoy some ocean views outside the valley views.

4. This Moment.

I had a panic attack this week and decided to document my face and neck on what happens during a panic episode. I get light headed and break out in hives or a red rash all over my body. This was about 10 minutes after it happened. The redness takes awhile to go away, but at least I didn't have to call and ambulance, or go to the hospital. This isn't the best picture of me, but at least it gives a bit of visual to what people experience during a high anxiety, or panic issue.

5. This Episode.

Our latest episode of the podcast is out and live. It's a story of a group of men named The Bloody Espinosas that took revenge of the treatment of Spanish settlers during the 1800s. You can listen to this episode for free at the podcast link at the top of the blog, or at the Diabolic Evil site here.

Positive affirmations this week:

Even on your worst days, remember to be grateful for what you do have and how far you've come.