August came and went, and honestly, I still wonder where the month went. Maybe that’s my way of coping, of pushing through and suppressing some of the stress, challenges, and little hiccups that came my way this month.
I always say that challenges make us stronger. I may stumble; I may have moments when I question myself, but somehow, I always find my way back up and keep moving forward. So, I’m choosing to leave the hiccups in August and carry only the moments that made my heart and soul smile into September.
One of the ways I deal with difficult moments is by giving back. This month, I shared a few videos on my YouTube channel for women going through divorce or separation. If my experiences can help another woman feel less alone and remind her that there is light at the end of the road, then sharing my story is worth it.
I also made time for fun and new experiences.
For the first time, I visited MOSI Museum with some of my friends to experience The Circle of Light. It was a beautiful and immersive sound and light experience. Before the show, we had dinner at Babushka and enjoyed some delicious, authentic food. And if you know me, you know I’m always excited to try authentic cuisine, especially because I love recreating the dishes at home. It’s one of the things I miss about having my children home. I would try something new and immediately think, I need to make this for my girls. After the show, we ended the evening with dessert at Bekdash Ice Cream for some delicious Middle Eastern treats.
I also spent a weekend at the beautiful Vistana Resort in Orlando. It turned out to be an interesting weekend, and it reminded me of something important: who you vacation with matters. I’m a foodie, and I’m an explorer. I love discovering new places, trying new things, and making memories. For some people, vacation means resting and doing absolutely nothing, and there is nothing wrong with that. But me? Give me an adventure.
I also attended a healthcare conference focused on the importance of Type 1 diabetes screening at the beautiful Westin Hotel. Since my full-time job is completely remote, I really appreciate opportunities to get out, connect with other healthcare professionals, network, learn, and exchange ideas.
I also had the opportunity to attend a fun Yelp event at Kona Grill, where I spent the evening sipping, mingling, and enjoying some delicious bites. As a foodie, I always appreciate an opportunity to discover good food while connecting with new people, and this was definitely one of those enjoyable August moments.
And then there’s the part of August that doesn’t always make it onto social media. Since becoming an empty nester, I’ve been trying to fill my free time with activities and new experiences. I love coming home to a clean, peaceful house. But sometimes, I still find myself looking into my daughter’s room, almost expecting to see her there. I miss my kids.
Maybe that’s another reason August feels like such a blur. Some days were full, some were difficult, and some just passed by.
One thing I did push myself to return to this month was dancing. The dance floor has been a part of my healing throughout my divorce. Salsa dancing has always given me a place to escape, smile, move, and simply forget about everything for a little while.
Lately, it’s been harder for me to make myself go. Therefore, reconnecting with that passion this month felt really good. Because sometimes, healing means returning to the things that once made you feel like yourself.
August was not perfect. Actually, it was a hard month for me. Behind some of the smiles were self-doubt, pain, insecurity, and moments when I didn’t feel as strong as I looked. But I made it through. And I’m choosing not to carry everything with me.
So, August, I’m leaving the hiccups here. I’m taking the lessons, the laughter, the food, the adventures, the dancing, the connections, and the moments that made my heart smile, and I’m carrying those with me into September. Even in the middle of the storms, we have to keep our eyes open. Look for the little moments of joy. Look for the light. And if you’re lucky, you might just find your rainbow.
Here’s to September. With love, Marjie!
Happy to see some of your writing! I think some things you are experiencing like being an empty nester are going to resonate with a lot women 🤗
Thank you! Sharing my experience and this season of my life has helped me get stronger, and if something I write helps another woman feel seen or know she’s not alone, then it’s worth it.