Gratitude. Reflection. Change.

Today, I'm grateful for the people who have encouraged me, challenged me, and reminded me that growth often comes one conversation at a time.

The last two weeks have been filled with reflection and focus after an unexpected pivot. I made the difficult decision to withdraw from graduate school this semester so I could be there for my family.

While it wasn't part of my original plan, it reminded me that sometimes the greatest act of strength is choosing the people we love.

At the same time, I've been searching for a new career.

Like many women, I found myself asking the hard questions.

Am I good enough? Am I worthy? Is it my age? Am I applying for the wrong positions?

The answer was NO!

After talking with recruiters, attending workshops, and connecting with military liaisons, I realized I wasn't selling myself. My resume listed responsibilities, but it wasn't telling my story. It wasn't highlighting the accomplishments, leadership, and impact I've made throughout my career.

Somewhere along the way, I had forgotten to celebrate the woman behind the resume.

That realization changed everything.

Self-doubt became self-reflection.

Instead of asking, "Am I enough?" I started asking, "How do I better share the value I bring?"

I revamped my resume, asked for honest critiques, followed up on opportunities, and kept moving forward. I also continued building my children's book journey, connecting with libraries, and working on the dreams that bring me joy.

The progress may seem small, but it's meaningful.

I've passed ATS screening on multiple positions, completed my personal statement for graduate school, finished another Winston Tails book, scheduled potential author events, and continue to receive five-star reviews from readers. None of it happened overnight, but every small step reminds me that progress is still progress.

I have many roles—wife, mom, Gi-Gi (Glam-ma), fitness participant, dog mom, entrepreneur, author, and career seeker. Every one of those roles has taught me resilience.

This week, I'm reminded that sometimes God changes our direction, not our purpose. The road may look different than we imagined, but that doesn't mean we're on the wrong path.

So today, I choose gratitude.

Gratitude for the lessons.Gratitude for the people who speak truth into our lives.Gratitude for the opportunities still ahead.And gratitude for this amazing Fabulous Colorado Divas community, where we can encourage one another through every season of life.

Here's to celebrating the little milestones, lifting one another up, embracing change, and finding joy in the beautiful moments Colorado—and life—give us each day.

Divas, what is one thing you're grateful for this week?

I'd love to celebrate it with you in the comments.