We've reached the halfway point of the year, and it's time to reflect on our progress and reignite our motivation to tackle our personal and professional goals. As I write this newsletter, I can't help but feel a sense of accomplishment for crossing off one of my own goals. It's amazing how a deadline can inspire us to take action! So, let me ask you: What have you achieved so far this year? And what remains unfinished?
June was a month filled with significant events for me. Let me share the highlights with you…
Arizona Anniversary:
On June 1st, I celebrated 15 years since I moved from Ohio to Arizona. It was a leap of faith, as I had never visited the Grand Canyon state before moving. Everything about Arizona is different from my hometown in Northwest Ohio. Everything. Over these 15 years, I've grown and experienced major milestones—completing my bachelor's and master's degrees, getting married, becoming a homeowner, and embracing motherhood with two beautiful children. Making that bold move out west is something I am truly proud of, and building a life in this warm and sunny state has been a testament to my hard work and determination. This 15-year milestone holds special significance for me.
Nashville:
Nashville also played a part in my eventful June. My husband and I took a quick trip back east, which proved to be incredibly refreshing. We reaffirmed what we already knew: taking a break from our everyday responsibilities is essential now and then. And what better way to celebrate our 11th anniversary than by doing something we've always enjoyed together—shopping for cowboy boots! Being in Nashville gave us a unique opportunity to customize our boots, an experience we wouldn't have found back home. We proudly strutted our personalized boots down the Nashville strip, reminiscing about the date where it all began and our wedding day where we said I do in cowboy boots. It's become quite the tradition for us, if you know us personally.
But it wasn't just about the boots. While in Nashville, we had the privilege of attending an intimate concert. The crowd consisted of only 300 people, and our cell phones were locked away in a bag. Let me tell you, the experience was incredible! Sure, seeing the talented Eric Church perform his beautiful unreleased songs and sharing stories about his career and songwriting was amazing. But what truly made it special was the absence of cell phones. For once, I didn't feel compelled to capture every moment or worry about someone blocking my view with their phone. It was so relaxing to be fully present and enjoy the show without distractions. I hope this becomes a more common practice—cell phone-free shows that allow us to truly immerse ourselves in the experience.
Disneyland:
And then there was Disneyland. Yes, June took us on two travel adventures—or should I say vacations? We made a pact at the beginning of the year to celebrate birthdays at Disneyland, and this trip was dedicated to my daughter's 6th birthday. We had an absolute blast celebrating her special day while also enjoying Father's Day at the parks. It was a double win! Meeting Bingbong at the Pixar Place Hotel and Anger from Inside Out at Pixar Pier were definite highlights for me.
Recent Reads:
Tell Me About It: Memoir of a Psychotherapist by Pinny Brakeley Bugaeff
One in a Millennial: On Friendship, Feelings, Fangirls, and Fitting In by Kate Kennedy
Caught My Attention:
Inside Out 2: Currently in theaters. If you haven’t seen this movie yet, make plans. The story is powerful and important. I am certain you will learn something about yourself from this movie. Oh, and stay for the end of the credits scene.
Palm Royal: Apple TV - I enjoyed this series! It kept me captivated by the storyline, playful characters, and incredible fashion.
Mystery Door Prize Season 2: Apple TV - Season one was interesting, and I couldn’t help but tune in to see what happens next in this intriguing sci-fi show about town members questioning their current life choices after a mysterious machine gives them an alternate purpose one night.
Being 13: This thought-provoking article follows the stories of three thirteen-year-old girls for a year as they navigate relationships and social media.
Inner Glow Society:
Breaking Free: Confronting Abandonment Fears for Personal Growth
Building Self-Trust: How to Validate Your Feelings and Set Healthy Boundaries
As we move forward into the second half of the year, let's take a moment to reflect on our journey. What milestones are you proud of? What experiences have shaped you into the person you are today? Remember, life is a series of adventures, big and small, and each one contributes to our growth and self-discovery.
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Website: maryjackson.online