Giving to Yourself

Who is on your Christmas shopping list? The kids, your spouse, mom and dad.....and I'm sure it goes on and on.

I bet you've forgotten one person, though. The one person that shows you support, guidance and is always there for you; Yourself!

I've never put myself on my Christmas list and to tell the truth a couple months back I would've thought that a little ridiculous. In all my Christmas' past I've never given myself one single thought . I find that odd now, when before I would've found it selfish to even think I deserved a space on that huge list.

Now I value myself, the support I'm trying (sometimes succeeding) to give myself everyday, the love I'm pouring into my work , my desires. The dedication I'm showing in order to achieve my dreams. I'm on that long and hard, but rewarding journey towards self-love.

So, this year while writing my list, in the middle of the page I suddenly remembered that I had been secretly longing to take painting classes for over a year and aching for new supplies for my crafting. For a moment I was surprised and a little ashamed that I would think of myself while I was supposed to be writing down great gifts for friends and family.

Then I realized how great it was that I had actually thought about myself. For me, it was a plateau. A turning point, proof that I was taking steps, albeit tiny ones, to my Authentic Self. The Self that loves, cares and admires me.

What would you like this year? It doesn't have to cost a dime, it can be a nap, a whole day to yourself. Whatever it is, get it. Write your name in a pretty color at the very top of your list and treat that name as if it were a family member or friend. If you look at it that way, you have to get her something! You can't just forget her! In truth, she is your bestest bud, your confidante, your amigo when the going gets tough, a super classy lady and an all around awesome woman! She deserves a great Christmas present. Make sure to remember and honor her.

There, at the top of my list, in shiny metallic red and gold is written.....Missy Sue. And I've never been so proud of myself, except maybe after giving birth, but that's a whole other story, rofl.