When I turned 40 last month, I decided to follow through on a few things I've always wanted to do but for some reason or other have never got done.
First, I've always wanted to write books, so I published my first, You Will Find Your Way, the day after my birthday. I had been sitting on this book for a while, hesitant to share something so personal and vulnerable. Publishing the book felt like a big step toward practicing much of what I wrote about in the poems within the collection - letting go of what others think, retiring the mask and being free to be me.
I've been moved by the lovely feedback I've been getting from people, privately and in person, but also online in Amazon reviews. My hope had been that the book would help people who have been through similar experiences feel seen and less alone, and so far, it looks like this hope is being realised.
I'm continuing to follow through on my dream to write books, having a number of other poetry collections in the works. I hope to share more about the next book with you shortly. In the meantime, you can subscribe to my newsletter list to access a free sample of You Will Find Your Way, and to be the first to hear news about my next book.
Second, I've always wanted to do a fun colour in my hair. I've put it off for many reasons. Worry about what people might think. Worry about being seen. Worry about the maintenance. Worry about the costs. Worry, worry, worry.
But this week, I made the appointment and rode my bike into the hair salon. I had thought I'd get some blue in my hair, but the hairdresser recommended pink or purple would look best with my natural hair colour.
Before I knew it, I was riding my bike home with pink hair. And oh my it was fun! My kid told me when I got home that it looked really cool, and it tickled me that they thought so.
Third, I've always wanted to get a tattoo. Again, I've hesitated due to many of the same reasons as colouring my hair. Also there was the concern of the ummm... permanency. Plus I've had trouble deciding on all the things you need to decide on - where and what chief among them.
But now I've decided on the where and what, and have made the appointment for next week. Eeek! Here's hoping I love it as much as the inspiration pictures I sent the artist.
I'm going to keep following through on my desires from my youth and younger self. Some I'll give myself permission to let go of. For example, in my youth, I always wanted to get my motorcycle license and get a Kawasaki Ninja like Max in Dark Angel. 🤣 But nowadays, I'm perfectly happy with my e-bike instead. I might look more eccentric and less cool than Max did when I'm out riding it, but oh, it brings me so much joy in doing so.
Today I'm curious... what is something that you've always wanted to do, but haven't got around to doing yet? Let me know in the comments below.
[Banner image of my hair was taken by Lydia at Nostalgia Rose Studio]
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