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Mayra's Transformation Period

It's hard to put into words but I can tell you that I'm going through a transition in my life that is quite profound. In the last few months, I have conquered a few things that I thought were impossible. New projects at work and new things at home have made me grow up and have opened my eyes to who I want to be and what I want to do in my life. My mom underwent two surgeries within a four-month period and taking care of her has opened up my eyes to what's really important in life.



First and foremost, I have seen how strong and brave my mom is to go under two painful surgeries and still rise from the pain to feel much better.  She is the person I most admire in this life, and her bravery is proof that she is a warrior.  Through her recovery, she still manages to make jokes to help lighten the mood, she has a positive attitude, and she is kind and grateful for the things we take for granted.

During this time, I always believed that I didn't have what it takes to cook because I didn't cook at all before.  I had a limiting self-belief that I couldn't cook so I didn't try to learn before. I was the kind of person that I would boil water for an instant cup of noodles and call it a day. Now, I'm thankful for my crockpot, Pinterest, and other fun, yummy, and easy to make recipes.  It's hard to know what to cook when my mom has limitations on what she can and cannot eat.  Here is where I know I have grown.  The Old Mayra would have given up, but the New and Improved Mayra welcomes the challenge with open arms. When it comes to deciding what to cook for dinner, I try to remember this rule, "Keep it simple." I'm at a point where I know what's in the fridge and the pantry, I keep a running list of things to buy at the grocery stores, and I look forward to my weekly shopping trips to Sam's Club and Costco.

It brings me joy when my parents enjoy the meals I prepare and finish them completely.  It is proof that my cooking skills are improving and in turn,
my confidence is growing.

When things start to feel overwhelming, I give myself a pep talk, I cry in the shower, and I pull myself together. Sometimes, I take things day by day, and on hard days, I take things hour by hour. In the end, I always pull through because I've learned not to give up on myself.

Another thing I have been doing is self-care activities.  I purposely take time for myself to have some quiet time. I have started reading more and carry a book in my purse everywhere I go.  If I have five minutes to spare, I will read my book.  I also have started listening to podcasts and I enjoy positive and uplifting programs. I have noticed that my self-talk is more positive and it has made a difference in the way I talk to my family, my coworkers, and my friends.

I am learning that it is important to take care of myself. Last month, I took a quick weekend trip to Quebec City. Not only to escape my reality but to remind myself of the importance it is to do the things I love to do.  Traveling is certainly something I truly love and enjoy.  It's important to remember to take care of yourself first before you can take care of others.  I share with you an awesome video clip of Iyanla Vanzant when she tells Oprah this exact point.  Take a look! You won't regret it.




This season is a challenging period but I'm enjoying the self-growth that is coming out of this.  I look forward to the challenges and improvements in my life.

Thanks for reading,
Mayra :)




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