Hello Beautiful Souls,
As the holiday season envelops us in its warmth, I'm drawn to the cherished memories that define this time of year. It's not just about the decorations or the presents; it's about the timeless traditions that have shaped my life and continue to guide my journey.
Growing up in a bustling household of 13 kids with two incredible parents, the holidays were a symphony of laughter, chaos, and unbreakable bonds. However, amidst the joy, there are threads of challenges that have been woven into the tapestry of our family's story.
My mother, a beacon of strength and love, battles Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD). Her illness, especially as she approaches her 80s, has become a poignant reminder of life's fragility. Witnessing her journey has taught me about resilience and the enduring power of love.
My father, at 80 years old, stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment and dedication. Their love story, spanning over five decades, is a testament to enduring love amidst trials. Despite the hardships and the toll of my mother's illness, their bond remains unshakable, serving as a guiding light for Tarl and me in our nearly four years together and our sights for eternity.
Their example, their sacrifice, and their profound love have been the foundation upon which our family was built. From raising nine biological children to embracing four of us through adoption, their love knows no boundaries. It's this essence of love and resilience that makes the holidays all the more precious.
Christmas, to me, isn't just about festive adornments or lavish gifts; it's a celebration of family, of enduring love that weathers life's storms. The memories etched in my heart are of moments spent together, amidst the backdrop of challenges and joys that define our journey.
The absence of children in our own lives doesn't diminish the depth of our gratitude for the present. We're embracing opportunities to grow personally, professionally, and as partners, building a foundation rooted in love and faith for the road ahead.
The belief in learning, growing, and being vessels of love is firmly rooted in our faith. While our beliefs may differ, the core remains—a commitment to spreading empathy, compassion, and kindness.
In navigating our own challenges and learning to express our emotions authentically, we've found solace in being open and vulnerable. It's in these moments that we've discovered the true essence of connection and the power of shared experiences.
To all the beautiful souls navigating their own journeys, know that amidst the chaos and uncertainty, there's a thread of hope and love weaving through it all. Each day offers an opportunity to create meaningful memories, to share your light, and to touch lives.
During the holidays. It's just him and I.
One day in the beautiful eternity to come we'll have children but in the meantime, we have our talents, creative projects, work, finishing a degree, and getting me a wonderful career that lies ahead. Holidays come at certain times of year but what we both realize is to make each day count. We all have different challenges and trials and I always love My husband Tarl, an INTJ, and I, an INFJ, navigate our unique paths, recognizing that vulnerability and expression don't always come easily. Yet, in our differences, we've found a harmony that defines our bond—an intertwining of strengths and weaknesses that complement each other.
Tarl often shares a perspective that resonates deeply—our challenges in life are akin to choosing from a 'tribulation buffet' before arriving on this Earth. It's a reminder that despite certain unfulfilled desires, life is still a gift to be celebrated and lived to its fullest.
We all can learn and grow, and we're blessed with opportunities in life. These opportunities allow us to strive to be the best versions of ourselves, in line with what we believe our Savior Jesus Christ would want us to be. It's not about what we have or don't have—it's about how we use our time and experiences to spread love. Love comes in many forms: empathy, compassion, teaching, learning, and sharing our talents and passions, whether it's through singing, writing, dancing, or any other skill that comes from the heart.
Being open and personal about our feelings is important. Understanding and accepting ourselves and others take time, but it's crucial for personal growth. It's about acknowledging our limits, truths, and passions. My husband, Tarl, and I have learned this, and it doesn't make us any less; it simply means accepting who we are. This acceptance has allowed us to live a fulfilling life together centered on Christ, accepting challenges constructively, and treasuring our life's journey together.
For me, helping and supporting others is a motivation that goes straight to my heart. I see it as a blessing, using my own experiences to bring love and empathy to others. Even in the darkest of days, I held onto memories that were dear to me, and I wish to share that light with others.
It's about nurturing the light within us and sharing it with the world, always holding onto hope and staying open to possibilities. Miracles do happen, but until then, it's up to us to do our best. We believe that our Heavenly Parents and Savior Jesus Christ understand our deepest desires. It's essential to believe in oneself and in the endless opportunities and paths that lie ahead. Never give up. Reach out to others, find that light within you, and take one step at a time, embracing each feeling and experience along the way.
Our faith anchors us in a belief in learning, growing, and being conduits of love and compassion. It's a faith that propels us forward, believing that with faith, doors open, and fears dissipate.
In navigating life's challenges, we've found solace in being vulnerable and open. It's through these moments that we've discovered the true essence of connection and the power of shared experiences.
To all the beautiful souls journeying alongside us, your presence and deepest wishes are acknowledged and valued. Despite life's complexities, there's a thread of hope and love that intertwines through it all.
As we approach the holiday season, let our hearts be filled with love, our spirits with joy, and our days with moments worth cherishing. From Tarl and me, our hearts overflow with love and prayers for each and every one of you.
Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and always remember: Keep shining and be inspired!
With love and warm wishes,
Jackie Inspires & Tarl Creates
#holidays #hope #love #laughter #family #memories #eternallove #familybonds #light #purpose #singer #writer #artist #couples #self-love #inspiration #self-care #motivation #lighttheworld #gospel #savior #heavenlyparents #gifts #journey #buildingafoundation #affirmations #spiritualjourney #physicaljourney #testimony #authors #writingcommunity #stories #growth
jackieinspires
Updated: Nov 2, 2023
Hello beautiful Souls,
As the holidays approach, life has been a whirlwind of activity for us. I've been immersed in my Fall semester at school, which will conclude in mid-December. And, as we look ahead, my final semester for Spring 2024 is just around the corner. Graduation May 2024.
The light at the end of the academic tunnel is becoming brighter and more inspiring with each passing day, as I'll soon graduate with my Bachelor's in Family Science from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. It's been a long journey, but we're getting there!
Speaking of journeys, Tarl, my loving husband, and I find ourselves in the beautiful town of Washington, Utah, not far from St. George. We've been exploring the stunning landscapes, getting to know our new community, and embracing the charm of our new home. It's truly a season to be thankful for all the beauty that surrounds us.
One thing that brings us immense joy is sharing our talents in creative works. Tarl and I both have a passion for storytelling, art, writing, and more. It's not just a hobby; it's a way for us to express our innermost thoughts and emotions. Through our creativity, we connect with one another on a deeper level and with the world around us.
On a personal note, I've been continuing my journey to better health. I've been managing my diabetes with the help of insulin pumps, dealing with gastroparesis, and working closely with specialists to address my health concerns. Lately, I've been undergoing various tests and consultations for my sinus tachycardia, a condition that can raise my heart rate up to 140 even when I'm at rest. I'm waiting to see a Cardiac Electrophysiologist for further review and testing. It's like running a marathon, but I'm determined to keep moving forward with a positive outlook, and a touch of humor is always helpful.
Tarl has been embracing the beauty of working from home as a technical writer. He's been pouring his creativity into his projects, weaving fascinating stories, and making our home a place where inspiration flows freely during the evenings and weekends. It's a delight to witness his passion in action, and it's something that truly makes our daily lives more beautiful. Go after your dreams and support others in their own dreams.
As the holiday season approaches, we are filled with excitement. This will be our first time spending the holidays in Utah, and we're looking forward to the new traditions we'll create. We're grateful for everyone who is a part of our lives, and we carry that gratitude with us every single day, not just during the "holiday" season. Life is a gift, and we cherish it in every moment.
On a recent Sunday, Tarl and I had the privilege of giving a talk at our church on caring for others and being self-reliant. It was a wonderful opportunity to share our experiences and offer support to our fellow church members. Caring for one another and building self-reliance is a philosophy we hold dear, and it's an honor to be able to give back in this way.
In closing, we'd like to remind you to do your best every day, no matter what challenges you face. Life is a journey, and sometimes it's a marathon, sometimes it's a sprint, but it's always worth it. We revel in the views of the mountain deserts, the warm sunshine, and the everyday joys of life together.
We want to express our love and gratitude to all those who support us on this beautiful journey. Thank you for being a part of our lives and for being part of the light that brightens our path.
Keep Shining ~Be Inspired ~
~Jackie & Tarl ~
Check out some fun books, journals, and coloring/sketchbooks here :)
jackieinspires
Happy 3 Year Anniversary and Eternity to go . @tarlcreates You're my favorite. You make my heart sing. I love our talks, jokes, creative projects, and just enjoying life in all circumstances
It's been such an amazing adventure and so much more to come. We love us 💜
Here's to so many more experiences as we journey this new chapter in Utah . Thanks for choosing me to hold your hand in all experiences, projects, health, sickness, trials, surprises, adventures, creativity, passions, and dreams.
Love you always and forever. Happy Anniversary, Honey . You're truly amazing.
Jackie 💜