In reviewing these images from my birthday this past weekend, I was inspired to write this letter to my twenty year old self. This time, four years ago, I did the same thing on my birthday weekend- toured some Virginia wineries. However, I was in a difficult place in my life and was a much different person than I am today. I am so thankful for that girl that I was, the way I have grown, and the four year journey that has made me the woman I am today.Ā
My dear, twenty year old self,
Oh, sweet girl. You are fragile, and torn, and heartbroken. You wonder if the decisions you are making are right and if the path you are choosing will lead you to the happiness you are so desperately craving.
Let me tell you, this time of loneliness, of lack of confidence, of uncertainty…it doesn’t last forever. You are stronger than you give yourself credit for. Leaving was the best thing you could have done for yourself and your future, because God has a much better man in mind for your heart, a man of kindness and faith, someone who will give you the life you deserve.
And your dreams? Keep chasing them girl, with gusto! No matter how far off they might seem. You will get there, but try to enjoy the journey (that Masters looks great hanging on the wall, but college was the fun part of getting it there!). And as far as your camera, shoot away, my friend. You’ll be surprised the places it’s going to take you.
Above all else, remember there is beauty in the breakdown, glory in the chaos, and try to allow yourself some of that amazing grace you’ve been saved by.
Love, Me.
So thankful for the friends I spent my birthday weekend with! Ā
Good friends, good food, good music, good wine. It’s the stuff great birthdays are made of!
Love the idea of writing a letter to yourself in the past! š
Hope you enjoyed your birthday!!
So happy for you nikki! Lots of love always! <3 aoe
I’m so proud of how far you come. It broke my heart to see you during those dark days, but I’m so glad I was able to be there and help you. Look at everything amazing that has happened since then! I love you friend š
I am so glad that I got to be apart of your special day! I am so proud of you friend for how far you’ve come. aoe
a beautiful post from a very beautiful lady! happy belated birthday, love!
xoxo
So glad to see your birthday was everything you deserve. Love you bunches sweet girl. Good luck with shoot share! I can’t wait to see what you create and inspire.
love you! this is so sweet! everything happens for a reason! and we need to go to a winery! that’d be fun! š
You are beautiful and incredibly talented! Keep it up and Happy belated BDay! aoe š
[…] To read last year’s birthday letter, click here! […]