The morning after…
🌼Wow — I did it!
My website has finally launched, and this post is all about the feelings (and yes, even the unexpected thoughts) that followed. Terrified. Vulnerable. That yucky feeling of - YIKES? What the heck have I done?
Sounds a little wild, right? I’ll admit — these emotions caught me completely off guard.
But wait…the first thing I want to say is thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for all the beautiful messages. To those of you who reached out with words of encouragement — your kindness meant more than you know.
But maybe I need to back track a little.
I am getting questions as to what made me do this.
What started this whole thing.
One of the biggest reasons I created this space was to reach out.
Just looking at my Facebook, I could see how many people have touched my life — some I connect with often, others I haven’t heard from in years. I began to wonder: Could I build something that rekindles some of those connections? Many of you were once a big piece of my life, or at the very least, someone whom i chatted and laughed with, at some point.
I know I’m not alone in this — we all lose touch with people who once stirred something deep within us. The ones who bring back memories that feel like home. Right?!
Anyway, about a year ago, I had the opportunity to accept a part-time position, doing exactly what I love, here in Chase —but rather than a full-time position it was working just two days a week. This meant I could either fill in elsewhere or step into semi-retirement. I chose the latter. Need I say, life shifted dramatically. I was used to going 100 miles an hour — go, go, go! Suddenly, I was cruising at 50. It took some adjusting, but the longer I lived at this gentler pace, the more I embraced it. I began learning about myself in ways I hadn’t before. Slowing down gave me space to reflect, to breathe, and to rediscover what truly matters.
And while I found peace in this new rhythm, I still yearned for more — not more chaos, but more meaning. I wanted to do something that felt aligned with my heart, not just my obligations. I realized how much I love expressing myself (no surprise to many of you, ha ha). I also acknowledged my gift for working with seniors and my naturally caring heart. I saw how I could bring these gifts together — right here in little Chase, BC. And with that, Helping Hands from the Heart and From Shadows to Shine were born.
So on that note, I hope you enjoy what I’ve created. I hope you feel welcome to chime in whenever you feel called. I truly believe we’re living in a time where connection, friendship, and support matter more than ever. This is my contribution — my small way of making a difference.
And before I sign off, I want to quickly address a question that’s come up: Is it okay to share this space? Yes — absolutely. I welcome it with an open heart. If something here speaks to you, please feel free to pass it along. This space was created for connection, and every kindred spirit is welcome.
I’ll also be posting regularly, sharing reflections, stories, and gentle offerings as they come. I’ll be sending out quiet nudges to let you know when something new is up — so keep an eye out for those notifications.
Thank you for walking beside me.
Until next time,
Darlene
