Hobbies, Life, mental health

Balancing Things: Last Term of College

As the final term of college approaches, it’s common to feel a sense of excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead. For many, this is a time of intense focus on completing assignments, studying for exams, and preparing for graduation. However, it’s also important to remember that there’s more to life than just academics.

Personally, I am thrilled to be in the last term of college. I have worked incredibly hard to get to this point, and I’m looking forward to the opportunities that lie ahead. One of the things that has me particularly excited is the fact that I am finally finding a balance between my academic commitments and my personal life.

In the past, I was so focused on my studies that I didn’t have much time for anything else. I would often skip social events and put off spending time with friends and family in order to study more. While I don’t regret the hard work I put in, I do wish that I had found a better balance earlier on.

Now, in my last term of college, I am finally making time for the things that matter to me outside of academics. I have been reconnecting with old friends and making new ones. I have been attending more social events and enjoying the city around me. And, perhaps most exciting of all, I have been getting back into gaming and family time.

Gaming has always been a passion of mine, but it’s something that I had to put on hold while I was in school. However, now that I am in my final term, I have been able to start gaming again. It’s been a great way to unwind after a long day of studying, working, and it’s also been a way for me to connect with friends both near and far.

Of course, I am still busy with my coursework and other academic commitments. But, I am finding that by making time for the things that matter to me outside of school, I am actually able to be more productive and focused when it comes to my studies. I feel happier and more fulfilled, and I am excited to see what the future holds.

Life, mental health, Q&A

Weekend Prompt Day: Digital Vision

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

This has changed for me after having kids when it comes to material things I suppose. But where ever life takes me. I hope to be content and that my family is happy.

We are still on the fence about owning a home. Besides the responsibilities of owning one. The cost in NYC for a home is essentially…ridiculous for the lack of a better word. We’ve thought about leaving before but the cons weigh in more than the pros. My husband and I are city people in the end but it was more for our jobs, benefits, and the needs of our kids in the future. We see an opportunity for us to grow here.

What I do is probably still owning an EV, watching anime, attending conventions with friends, back to school for a higher degree, owning a business, journaling, blogging, and giving back to other families who have children with disabilities.

This post will be what I look back on to reflect on what’s been accomplished or added on since then. I’m excited to see where life goes.

Anyone else with short term or long term goals?

Life, mental health, motherhood

Mental Health Mondays: Motherhood and Autism

As humans, we all have our struggles, and one of the most challenging ones can be our mental health. Emotional wellness plays a significant role in our overall well-being, and taking care of it is crucial. As a mother of two boys diagnosed with autism, balancing my own needs with my responsibilities can be a difficult task.

For starters, it is essential to recognize that everyone has different needs when it comes to their mental health. As a mother of two boys diagnosed with autism, my needs can vary from others, and it is important to take note of that. For me, taking care of my mental health is not only beneficial for me but also for my kids. Being in a better mental state allows me to provide a better environment for them.

Balancing self-care, work, socializing, college assignments, and hobbies can be overwhelming at times, especially when dealing with the responsibilities that come with parenting children with autism. It is crucial to set boundaries and prioritize tasks to avoid being overwhelmed. I have found that creating a daily routine and schedule has helped me manage my time better and reduce stress.

One of the most important things I have learned is to ask for help when needed. Raising children with autism can be challenging, and it is okay to ask for support. This support can come from friends, family, or even professional help. Joining support groups has benefited me as it provides a platform to share my experiences and connect with others who understand what I am going through. Meanwhile, at other times, I schedule calls with friends to vent and talk about our everyday lives to ensure I don’t feel alone.

Another critical aspect of maintaining good mental health is practicing self-care. As a mother, it can be easy to prioritize your children’s needs over yours. However, taking care of yourself is equally important. I set aside time to engage in activities I enjoy, such as reading, exercising, or even just taking a long bath. These activities help me recharge and feel more energized.

Lastly, it is essential to recognize that mental health struggles are okay. It does not mean that you are weak or incapable. It takes a lot of strength and courage to acknowledge and seek help for your mental health. It is essential to remember that recovery is not linear and that there will be setbacks. However, with the right tools and support, it is possible to overcome them. Taking care of our mental health is crucial, and as a mother of two boys diagnosed with autism, I have learned that it is essential to prioritize my emotional wellness. Balancing responsibilities while still taking care of yourself can be overwhelming, but setting boundaries, prioritizing tasks, asking for help, practicing self-care, and recognizing that struggling is okay can help in maintaining good mental health.

Much love to everyone and those who are parents. This journey is rough and we aren’t alone. But at times it feels that way. Good luck to us all!

Life, mental health, Tarot/Card Readings

Transitions: Life Update

I don’t think hectic would even begin to describe my life. There are many transitions in life, and I’m experiencing many. Meetings for Kindergarten. A tour of a day center for the little one. Finishing my Bachelors this year. Roles at work being changed. While still trying to accept that things will not be the same after COVID.

Accepting that changes came and went. Moments in time, I won’t return, no matter how much I miss them. I’ve revisited these moments and dwelled on them. I appreciate these moments and time for what they taught me and where it led me to.

I tend to tack on more than I should, whether this is to keep myself busy or to anxiety about slowing down. I’m not sure, but I hope always to try to make the best decisions with a sound mind than a busy one.

I’m still writing the book I started here. I’ve added more to it. I just needed time to post it and hope to return with Tarot Tuesday every first Tuesday of the month and those in between with others. It’s almost been two years of practicing tarot, and it still surprises me sometimes.

The year has barely started. But we are already a quarter in—another year=another adventure.

Hobbies, Life, Tarot/Card Readings

Tarot Tuesday: Keep Trusting the Process

It’s strange how life will continue to give you signs to keep going and to trust yourself and the process. January has ended. February is here. Time keeps going on. I reshuffled my tarot deck after a while of feeling away from it all.

A familiar card appears and I can’t help but feel relieved. The seven of coins as I mentioned in a previous post. Speaks to a journey you’re on. You’ve put in the work and the rewards are coming. The journey is not done but it’s coming along. There’s always a moment where my trust wavers slightly. It’s tiring to keep going and feeling as if there’s no end. But, I won’t give up now. Hopefully my readers won’t either. Stay sweet everyone and enjoy your Tuesday.

Hobbies, Life

Goals for 2023: Implementing and Progress

Lately I’m so caught up with writing and life. Honestly, I enjoy writing and always eager to find time to update and tweak the drafts currently being released.

I’m also excited to discover anchor.fm through WordPress. Podcasts for blogs? So cool! I released my first episode as a test run. I’m debating whether to take the time to read it myself and mess with a voice changer to enhance the reading experience. It’s going to take time and might have to adjust myself to do so if it’s better for my readers.

The tarot readings have slowed thus far but I’m confident there’s a lot I want to sense and know from the universe. Peering into myself and being motivated is part of my self care. My weight loss journey has stalled but I do plan to update you all on how I plan to reset and continue my progress.

I recently mentioned to someone how sometimes my emotions are like the ocean. Some days the waters is clear and serene. But there’s days it’s dark and ruthless. Others, a storm that I do my best to weather. However, I am always hopeful that I’ll be alright.

I’ve been taking some time to also read and inspire myself into writing more of the story. Studying as much as I can to finish school. Already halfway through the term. I’m excited to graduate and see what life’s opportunities has in store. To take a break from school so I can find my love for gaming and socializing more again. Maybe get ahead in writing Taken into the Stars. In few months time we will see. My goal is to eventually publish it.

As always. Stay sweet everyone. May life ease your path. Check out the latest update in my series Taken into the Stars Return or if you haven’t started it. Give it a read here: Taken into tha Stars Intro and let me know what you think. Enjoy!

Affiliate Links, Hobbies, Life, Product Review, Tarot/Card Readings

Tarot Tuesday: New Years

Been a while since I’ve done a tarot Tuesday. How about starting the new year with a spread?

I found this New Years spread here at: https://vanessairena.com/a-simple-new-year-tarot-spread/

In order from 1 to 4:

  • Seven of Swords
  • Pillar (AKA Empress)
  • Seven of Wands
  • Strength

What Am I Releasing:

Seven of Swords speaks to deception, enemies, manipulation. Personally speaking, that’s what I’ve been trying to let go for a long time. Having people who are willing to lie, disturb your peace, and cause you harm should have little to no space in your life. Easier said than done.

What I Learned

The Pillar (Empress) comes about when you’re nurturing. Whether it be an actual person or a project. It brings nurturing, love and pleasure into one. It also talks about self love and care, a time of growth. All of which I spend the last year learning and devoting myself to. This year is no different. I will continue to strive for what works for me.

What am I Cultivating

Seven of Wands says I’m cultivating protectiveness and boundaries. I’m clearing negativity that’s either been or is present. A new year brings about reflection. It’s okay to want to protect the energy you’ve built.

What Are My Tools

The tool in my arsenal: Strength with the meaning of resilience and determination. Challenges may come but if facing it with compassion and using internal will. I’ll combat these challenges and learn from the experience.


I’m satisfied with this spread’s revelation since it felt familiar and spoke to my truths in the past year and what’s to come. I’m determined to continue maintaining our peace, happiness and success through this year. And hope 2023 brings the same to my readers. I find that writing out plans, goals and organizing my time definitely helps. Whether this be a physical book or simply adding to your Google calendar. Even as an entrepreneur or worker, it’s essential to remember important dates or meetings. The cute planner above I’ve been using as of recently. You can start at any time since it’s a fill in planner, with completely blank sheets for you to use. I love the adorable Sakura design! You can find this planner here: Cherry Blossom Planner

But if you like something more simple, unique or professional here’s some popular ones:


**Disclaimer** As an Amazon associate this blog earns commission for purchases made with links on this post. Thank you for reading!

Life

Time Management: Work in Progress

My schedule has become more hectic as I enter the last phases of college, meeting demands at work and demands in life. Between a teething toddler, kindergarten applications for our special needs child, holidays and all. It seems as though there’s no time to stop and think. I’m in a constant go state of mind and quite frankly I can tell I might come crashing down in any second.

Thankfully a two-week break is coming. But before then, I want self-care. I need a nap and some me time. It’s what’s keeping me sane for the moment. When it comes to time management it’s difficult overall. Life has a set of categories when it comes to what will be done for the day. In my case, work/school/home/social/self care. Of course there’s sub categories but for now let’s keep it simple.

Everyday, I make the decision of how much time to put into each category. Do I divide them evenly? Do I have time for each one? What do I do if one suffers? Well, that usually ends in a “save for tomorrow” mindset. I’ve found that looking at my week and based on everyone else’s schedule and preference I can set a time to spend for each thing. Pre planning can help me mentally prepare for what’s to come. And have less stress on myself than usual. But we all know plans can shift quickly thus I adapt or tend to have a back up plan.

It’s not perfect and I’m still working on it. There’s still so much more things that I enjoy that I wish I had more time for. Gaming, writing, shows, reading and the gym. During my breaks I like doing a bit of everything more. But slowly I’ve been shying away from socializing the way I used to since my focuses have shifted. Priorities change and a category will suffer whether we like it or not. Just know it’s human and it’ll pass eventually.

Life, Shedding my Weight, weight loss

Six Months Post Op VSG: Stalls

Half a year down. One more year to go. I say this because that’s how long it may take to reach a goal weight with gastric sleeve. I’ve hit a stall recently. Mostly due to what I take in as food. Plus lack of exercise. I’m going to reset and start over. Back to strictly healthy foods and water. Along with upping my physical activity and holding myself responsible to go to the gym. The only cheat I’ll have is my weekly Starbucks that I love when studying. We will see how that goes.

Stalls are frustrating because you’re eating less and it feels like your body is refusing to lose weight. But sometimes taking a step back and assessing what you’re doing right or wrong then changing things a little can set you back on the right path. Mistakes are made along the way and habits don’t change in a day. I got lost along the way due to convenience and snacks. I let my cravings get the best of me when water should of been my best friend. I’ll get back there to that mindset of the gym and pushing past my limits.

Temptations are everywhere. Every outing. Every grocery shopping errand. People around you. Social parties. It’ll happen and you might fall off for a while. But it’s important to realize and get back up. Motivate yourself or find others to motivate you and support you. It’s okay to try again. It’s okay cause you’re learning and we are all learning. That’s the beauty of the journey (or struggle)