recap of word of the year 2023- Forgiveness

My word for 2023 was "Forgiveness". 

This year I shared so much of my forgiveness journey: 

 I shared the hurts from past       friendships 

 I shared hurts from past spiritual leaders 

 I shared hurts from the professional world

        And so much more

I feel like I am a different version of Terri going into 2024. People used to walk all over me, say evil and rude things, verbally abuse me and speak horrible things into my life but never again. Never again meaning will I sit by and let it happen, I won't protect those people. 

With a journey of forgiveness comes a journey of boundaries and how to set them in place so these hurts don't happen again. I'm not saying people you trust will not hurt you( hopefully not, but we are all human) love the people you trust, trust the people you love.  

My friend Judy has a hula hoop that she kept in her office, one day I asked her about it, she said it's a reminder of who you can fit in your hula hoop- yourself and Jesus.  Sure, we can care and love others but we need to love ourselves and Jesus first. Again, set boundaries. 

 I do have a new word for 2024 but forgiveness is still a daily practice in my life. 

Thank you for coming along on this journey of forgiveness with me this year.  You are all loved, you are all worth the work it requires to walk this journey together..

Xo,

Terri

Why are Shapewear Dresses on Women’s Wish Lists?

One of the most valuable assets to make modern life easier is practicality. That's why shapewear dresses are on women's wish lists. Firstly, they are practical and versatile. But they also offer a variety of benefits, such as shaping, confidence, and comfort.

They give women a smoother and more uniform appearance. They are pioneers in increasing confidence, building a more confident feminine figure in their clothes. They are made from comfortable fabrics that adapt to different body shapes. The democratization of access to quality fashion for women starts like this and this is extremely important to promote empowerment.

What are the advantages of wearing a shapewear dress?

The advantages are diverse. But the power of self-confidence is something that gains
power, after all, clothing that enhances your body and makes you love yourself more
and more is a fundamental piece for any woman's personal collection. You achieve a
better posture, when you convey this image, people automatically find you more
powerful and magnetic.

Furthermore, with a modern shapewear dress you can keep up with the main fashion
trends. A model with bell sleeves and a square neckline better fits your breasts, it is a
symbol of femininity and good taste. The belly gains a flat shape through the modeling
mesh, which is effective.

Body lines become lighter, making you even more beautiful. There is a harmonization
of the body in general: back, butt, breasts, hips and belly gain a new shape in a few seconds.

Does shapewear dress really shape your body?

Yes! But not permanently. Smoothes natural curves without causing pain, redness or discomfort. After all, the purpose of a shapewear dress is to highlight your body as it is.

The dresses with built in tummy control are a woman's true friend as they allow her to experience body positivity and be happy by accepting her body shape with love. A dress with a tight fit to the body and a side slit can give you such a sensual and beautiful look. Its shape becomes more elongated and the leg line stands out, giving you the confidence you deserve. The deep V neckline is attractive and leaves the breasts well structured. Support is guaranteed by the steel wire located at the top of the dress, which is practical because it eliminates the need for a bra.

Should I buy bigger or smaller shapewear dresses?

None of the options. Don't worry, the explanation is simpler than you might think. If you buy a smaller size, you won't have the natural modeling effect and will look tight and uncomfortable, and it may even have the opposite effect, as it may look like you weigh more than you actually do. When you buy a bigger shapewear, it cannot adapt to your body. The ideal is to purchase a shapewear dress in the same size as you are used to wearing other types of clothing.

You can take advantage of the shapewear dress sale to purchase a model with long sleeves and synthetic suede that will give you a very elegant look. The modeling mesh flattens the tummy and the transparent elastic supports the breasts so you look your best.

choices!

Everyday we have the choice to show up for ourselves.

 To risk our hearts…one more time, even when life has hurt us.

To express ourselves. 

To take care of others and to take care of ourselves, but facing our trauma, fears and pain.  

To forgive and then forgive and forgive again. 

To let go of shame. 

To walk humbly. To be purposeful. 

To lean into hope. 

To be willing to crack ourselves wide open with vulnerability. 

 It’s so worth it.I don’t want to have shallow conversations anymore. I don’t want to ever go back to just showing the highlights of life.  I don’t ever want to shrink away from talking about Jesus! I just want to live what ever days I have left baring it all, giving my all, being shockingly real, messy and vulnerable. 

I have nothing to lose and everything to gain.I am finding that I am drawn more and more to people like me. People who want intimacy. People who are willing to share the hard and difficult spaces.People who don’t care about pretenses. People who like to talk about God and what he is doing in their lives.  It’s not that I want to be in the hard spaces all the time, I love to have fun, I love light and easy, but I also won’t pretend there is no hard.  I have no fear of going to deep places and sitting with people in their pain. I feel most comfortable at that table now with other people who show up for the hard but continue to allow their hearts to remain soft.  I feel most comfortable with people who are showing up for life even through pain and loss.  

Ultimately, I just care about letting people feel seen and heard in this one life we have all been given. I care about people feeling wildly loved! I care about being a cheerleader for others.  That’s it….my Wednesday thoughts

The Back-Pain Banishing Brigade: Unleashing Sports as Your Secret Weapon

My fellow hunchbacked comrades of the digital age! Let’s face it, we’ve all been there – glued to our screens, diving deep into the abyss of endless scrolling, only to stand up and realise our backs have transformed into something that could rival the Leaning Tower of Pisa. I come bearing the good news from the land of less ache and more frolic!

Via Pexels

Never Trade the Fun of Scrolling for The Magic of a Real Doctor

Before we dive in, let me put my imaginary stethoscope aside and clarify – I’m no medical guru. If you’ve been wrestling with bears and injured your back while pinning the bear, you might want to speed dial your nearest Physiotherapy Centre. For the rest of us mere mortals whose back pain is courtesy of our passionate love affair with binge-watching, here’s my not-so-secret recipe for back bliss, served with a side of sports.

Swimming: The Back’s Bubble Bath

Let’s kick things off with swimming. Visualise yourself floating in the water, feeling as light as a feather – it’s pretty much a zero-gravity workout (well, almost, but we’re allowed some dramatics, right?). Plus, who doesn’t want to channel their inner sea creature? Word of caution to the newbies: steer clear of the butterfly stroke. That’s the deep end, literally!

Cycling: Pedal Away the Pain

Now, let’s pedal into the world of cycling. And no, you don’t need to be decked out in lycra for this. A stationary bike will do just fine. Picture this: pedalling away in the comfort of your living room, maybe even in your pyjamas, as you journey through the lands of your favourite fantasy series. Who said you couldn’t cycle to Narnia?

Yoga: Twist, Stretch, and Giggle

Ah, yoga – the ancient art of folding yourself like origami. But hey, it’s not just for those who can twist like pretzels. Yoga is a back’s best friend. Start with the basics – think child’s pose, think happy back. It’s not about mastering the handstand; it’s about the journey and occasionally about realising how far your toes actually are.

Pilates: Your Core’s Knight in Shining Armor

Enter Pilates, the unsung hero of core strengthening. It’s all about controlled movements, kind of like moving in slow motion. Think of it as fortifying your back with an invisible shield. Bonus: you get to lie down a lot. But don’t be fooled, this is a calorie burner exercise to create rocket strong abs!

Walking: The Underdog with a Punch

Last but definitely not least, let’s talk about walking – simple, effective, and severely underrated. Walk like you’ve got a meeting with royalty at the end of the block. It’s the perfect way to give your back some tender, loving care, and who knows, you might even make a new furry friend or two.

Valiant warriors in the battle against back pain that concludes the concoction of sports that could very well be your ticket to a happier, healthier spine. Remember, slow and steady wins the race. It’s okay to start at tortoise speed; we’re not all racing rabbits here.

Maybe one day, we’ll all be flexing those strong, pain-free backs, sharing tales of our conquests over cups of coffee. Until then, keep moving, keep smiling, and let those spirits soar – your back is on its way to a standing ovation! 

Boundaries-

 If you would have told me a year ago that I would stop allowing people to walk over me and to stand up for myself, I would have laughed at you. 

What does it mean to stand up for yourself?

Learning to stand up for yourself means that you're looking out for your well-being and bettering your mental health. You're defending your self-worth when you take up this action. When you're too passive under difficult situations, you may feel like you've let yourself down.

 Understand that saying no can be a good thing- I have struggled with saying no all of my life because my mother is the same, she does more than she should for people, then she is tired and worn out.  I once did the same thing but the last few months I am actually saying no to anything that I do not want to do or am comfortable doing.  Saying no can be beneficial and it sets up a boundary. 

Stay true to your words- After you've set boundaries and advocated for your own needs, you may feel the need to apologize. Try your best to ignore this feeling. You can be straightforward and assertive without apology. If you feel like you need to justify your request skip the "I'm sorry, but" part. Clearly state what's on your mind.  I do this all the time, I apologize even when I have nothing to apologize for. Why, I don't know.  I've apologized to someone who has tried to make my life so miserable.  I did nothing wrong but yet I apologized.. why?

Consider how you could be giving too much- Giving your time and energy to people is great, but don’t overdo it. If you do, people will expect you to agree to any request or statement.  This weekend is crazy hectic for me, so last night I decided to take something off my plate and cancel an event that I just do not have time for. It actually felt good 

Know when to leave- If another person makes the environment toxic, it’s best to leave. You probably aren't interested in discussing the topic in a shouting match. Exit the room, get some fresh air, and make sure you're safe from physical harm. Walking out isn't a form of surrender but rather self-care. You're looking out for your well-being and safety.  I walked out of my job yesterday, I was being abused and I had enough, I was pushed beyond my limits, I got home and I beat myself up over it but the more I think of it, I put up a boundary and I am not allowing this to happen anymore.  You’re under no obligation to respond to what people say when it comes out of their mouths. If you can, take a moment to digest what kind of situation you're in and think about how you're feeling. 

Remind yourself that you deserve respect

People who allow themselves to be pushovers don't have powerful self-esteem. Think about it this way: Why don't you deserve to have people respect you and your personal boundaries? There’s no reason you can't receive respect from your coworkers, friends, family, and partners.   I used to be a pushover but I am no longer allowing it.  If you don't like my boundaries then move along, I am not the one for you. 

This all being said I have had a lot of horrible, rotten, mean, narcissistic managers in my life.  I have let them treat me like garbage- from telling me I am not worth the ink that it takes to sign my pay cheque to just rude comments. But not anymore, you treat me like a human and I will respect you, disrespect me you will lose an employee.

Not enough? And then it struck me.

Driving down the road this morning thinking about what else I can get my kids for Christmas this year.  I love to give, I try to get the gift that everyone will want and need. 

We have some presents under the tree but NOT ENOUGH! 

It was that thought - “NOT ENOUGH”- 

that stopped me in my tracks. 

Not enough? 

And then it struck me. 

I don’t remember ONE SINGLE THING I got for Christmas when I was 6 years old. I don’t remember a specific toy (for the most part) that brought me an insurmountable amount of joy or feeling a certain level of admiration for a specific gift. 

But you know what I DO remember?

The laughter. The food. The Christmas Album blasting from every speaker in the house. Going to my Aunt Penny's for Christmas dinner, The hot chocolate. The reading of the birth of Jesus . Singing ‘Silent Night’ at The Christmas Eve service every year. 

I remember the magic and wonder I felt just knowing and believing  when we woke up that there would be presents. I remember snuggling with my sister in bed on Christmas Eve having a rough time sleeping because it was to exciting.

I remember the presents, sure! But not what was inside of them. What I remember most of all are the feelings and the memories that were made during this time of year. 

And you know what,  kids aren’t going to remember the dinosaur I spent 6 days trying to track down on Amazon or the Barbie that will have her head ripped off by the dog before we even have Christmas dinner. 😂

They will only remember the way they felt and the memories we, as parents, make sure we give them! 

So, this is for the Mama (or Daddy) that may be struggling this year, worried that your children won’t have enough on Christmas morning. 

Blast those Christmas jams, bake those Christmas cookies, watch “The Santa Clause” for the 100th time, tell them the story of Jesus and let your babies see Him shining through you! 

That’s what they will remember. Trust me. 

Merry Christmas 🎄