Rooted & Rising

For a long time, I forgot what fun even felt like. Survival mode has a way of stealing joy quietly—you don’t notice it’s gone until one day you realize you’ve been living on autopilot. Healing has taught me something beautiful though: fun isn’t frivolous. It’s necessary. It’s part of coming back to myself.

These days, I’m learning to embrace joy without guilt. I’m allowing myself to do the things that make me feel alive, creative, peaceful, and whole again. Here are a few of the things I truly do for fun—and how they’ve helped me reconnect with who I am.

1. Creating & Playing With Visuals

I love creative photo shoots and image editing. Turning a simple photo into something expressive—soft glam, elegant, playful, or powerful—feels like storytelling without words. It reminds me that I’m allowed to take up space, to be seen, and to celebrate myself in every season.

2. Writing, Journaling, & Blogging

Writing is where I breathe. Journaling and blogging through Rooted & Rising gives me a place to process, reflect, and grow out loud. I don’t write because I have it all figured out—I write because I’m becoming. There’s joy in watching my own evolution unfold on the page.

3. Faith, Prayer, & Quiet Moments With God

Spending time in prayer, worship, or gratitude isn’t just spiritual for me—it’s joyful. These moments center me. They remind me I’m not alone, that God is still writing my story, and that peace is always available to me when I pause and listen.

4. Time With My Kids & My Pets

Some of my favorite moments are the simplest ones—laughing with my kids, supporting them through their milestones, or just being present. And my pets, especially my cats, bring so much comfort and laughter into my life. Love lives in these everyday moments.

5. Taking Care of My Body & My Mind

Moving my body, working out, and feeling strong is fun for me now. It’s not about perfection—it’s about pride. Every step, every rep, every moment I choose myself is a celebration of how far I’ve come.

Fun doesn’t have to be loud or extravagant. Sometimes it’s quiet creativity, honest words, deep faith, or shared laughter. For me, fun is freedom—it’s proof that I’m healing, growing, and reclaiming joy one moment at a time.

I’m still standing. Still becoming.
And I’m finally allowing myself to enjoy the journey.