I’m Really Proud of You

The day I took this photo the wind was whipping off the Saginaw Bay, but the temperate and the sunshine were perfect, so I stayed. It was the sort of day we here in Michigan wait for all winter. I grabbed this bitty chum and a few other tiny pals and headed for the water.

The wind was not my friend. These itsy bitsy besties weigh about 3 ounces tops, and the first one I tried photographing got picked up by the wind and swept into the bay. The perfectionist in me decided that the photos would now be ruined, and I may as well head home. For once, however, I didn’t listen to the judgy little harridan that lives in my head. I just started taking pictures. I was so proud of that.

And I loved them.

I loved them so much that they’re now featured on the enclosure cards that get sent out with every gnome.

How does all this translate to me being proud of you?

I know you do little things and sometimes big things that you never give yourself credit for. And sometimes you keep going despite being tired or discouraged or fearful. You make plans and sometimes they work out and sometimes they don’t, but you keep showing up.

You dream. I know you do. And when a big ol’ wind comes swooping in, threatening that dream I want you to remember that you have a fan in me. I’ll cheer you on until you’re sick of me and I remind you what a badass you are.

Sometimes we get sandy and soggy. It’s okay. And if it would help add my voice in an effort to drown out your little brain harpy, I’d be honored.

Your turn: what are you proud of today?