Love Your Enemy

sweater: via Jame's Clothing Boutique (similar here) // leggings: via Jame's Clothing Boutique (similar here) // parka h&m (available here) // shoes: shoemint (similar here)
photos by common dove photography

So far I've been pretty open with the range of emotions that come along with going through a divorce…and I'm not going to stop now because it feels good to get it out there and because of the massive amount of love and support you guys have shown me over the last couple of months. 

Lately I've become tired of giving away pieces of myself. I'm not one of those people who has become jaded or bitter about love and marriage…… its just terrifying putting yourself out there again. The last several years have turned me into an "all or nothing" kind of person….if I'm going to do something its going to be with my whole heart…no matter what it is. 

I'm learning that fear and loneliness are tough but most of the time YOU are your own worst enemy. Self doubt, insecurities and feelings of never finding someone who can fully love you for EVERYTHING that you are can eat away at you……. However, sometimes, in the most unexpected places….around some of the most unexpected people, you find yourself letting go of everything that has held you back. And even though being vulnerable is scary as hell... sometimes you just have to get out of your own way and take risks on those people (or one certain person) that haven't given up on you.

"And God said 'Love Your Enemy,' and I obeyed him and loved myself." 

Growth

sweater: madewell (similar here) // shorts: flying tomato via james clothing boutique (similar here) // boots: schutz (similar here) // hat: world market (available here)
photos by common dove photography

"Be present. Make love. Make tea. Avoid small talk. Embrace conversation. Buy a plant, water it. Make your bed. Makes someone else's bed. Have a smart mouth, and quick wit. Run. Make art. Create. Swim in the ocean. Swim in the rain. Take chances. Ask questions. Make mistakes. Learn. Know your worth. Love fiercely. Forgive quickly. Let go of what doesn't make you happy. Grow"

If there was ever a year for growth 2014 was it. There was certainly no shortage of life altering changes this year that provided the basis for mental, emotional and (because of all of the stress eating) physical growth.  During the past several months I have learned how to love and live again and I'm ready to keep growing, especially spiritually. Now that the year is soon coming to an end let's make the next couple of weeks the best yet :)

PS if you haven't checked out Sheree from Its Not That Deep's vintage store that she recently opened then stop what you are doing and go check it out….right meow.

Invisible Wounds

top: vintage (loving this one) // pants: rag and bone ( similar here) // boots: 10 crosby derek lam (similar here) // jacket: old, loving this one // stole: similar here // sunnies: ray-ban (available here)
photos by common dove photography

"Wounds are no longer visible to others when they heal. However, memories and emotions remain. Without knowing words can sting vulnerable spots where wounds have previously healed. We should always try hard to be mindful and encouraging. In other words, master the art of exhortation. Encourage others today and remember that God heals your wounds if so accept."