Big purchases, big moments, big emotions… October! Let’s review October 2024.
Big Purchases
In late September, early October, we purchased a new car. Woah, right? We figured it was time to get a bigger car, specifically one that could endure the winter. We hope to expand our family and we travel quite often. It made sense to make a big move!
Travel
October started with a bang! In early October, Shiina and I traveled to Las Vegas, Nevada for our anniversary. It was relaxing and went by too quickly! It was time for us as a couple, not just as parents. We didn’t have our little one with us. It was great to spend time together like this. Not to mention, it was different to have time for myself in an entirely new environment. I felt at peace and as though I could take a deep breath. I didn’t have anything or anyone to worry about at that moment.
Career
This month sparked something in me that I hadn’t quite seen coming. I won’t share too much as I’m still trying to grasp it. However, the biggest takeaway thus far is that not everything will work out the way you thought it would. There will be setbacks. There will be evaluations on what it is you truly want for yourself, your family and in life. It’s just a matter of finding what that is.
Parenthood
Throughout October, I’ve seen my daughter grow to new heights. Quite literally, she’s gotten taller. Not just that, though. She’s different overall. Her personality is truly starting to settle from what it was before, where it was just starting to show. Now it carries with her. She’s an incredibly thoughtful and caring person. She’s quick to share or ask, “Are you okay?” Then, she’ll help soothe you by telling you, “It’s okay. You’re okay. Do you need help?” It reminds me of when she was a baby. She’d rest her hand on us to ensure we were okay. A year and a half later, she’s offering to help. As I’d put it, “She always gets it.” She always has. As first time parents, things were smooth sailing with our little girl from the start. She only wants a good time, always filled with smiles or laughter. And we’re here for it!
As I mentioned previously, there were setbacks regarding career related activities and evaluations on what I wanted in life. Although it’ll be a journey, the pressure of financial stability settled in. Being a parent, I only want to do well and support my family as best I can. This kind of pressure wasn’t new, but it didn’t feel good with its return, even if it was short.
Self-Love
I shared love with certain corners of myself and felt true confidence in it. For some time, I hadn’t taken pictures of myself. Not because I didn’t want to, but it wasn’t something that’d come up for me. I didn’t think about it. In October, however, I took loads of pictures… I even set up days to take photos! From personal photos to family photos. I took them all.
In addition, I took self-care to a new level. I experienced acupuncture for the first time. It was new and exciting. Most importantly, I gave back to my body what it gave to me. Although I’m in the spa industry, I couldn’t believe I’d spent an entire morning and afternoon at a wellness center! Wild (laughs).
Love and Good Company
We celebrated my mom’s birthday this month, although it’s in November. It gave me a moment to pause. Suddenly, the tables have turned. Instead of my parents planning a birthday celebration for me, like they used to growing up, we were planning something for them. This wasn’t the first time, but something felt different. It was a realization of just how fast time had passed. My girl is two years old now and she’s here celebrating with us. What a time it is and how blessed I am.
