This.

I've worked hard to move beyond my past, and while it doesn't have the same power over me that it used to, I'll never forget it. I've fought through some pretty rough times, but I have made it out to the other side, and honestly, I'm not sure that I would trade those challenging times because they made me strong, they trained me to rise up against adversity and keep fighting for what I want. I've fought and have been knocked down, and fought and been knocked down, but I keep on getting back up. For a long time, I felt shame about parts of my story. I didn't want to come off as "damaged goods", but I'm starting to realize the value that those dark times have brought to my life, and the broader perspective they've given me. We are not our pasts, we are the choices we make today. But every past does have things to teach us, and truths we can use today.

- Amanda

Quote of the day: "in order to have more success, you need to be willing to accept more failure."

This particular quote struck a chord with me and my tendencies towards perfectionism and how I'm often shy to show my work until I've got it finished and all the kinks worked out. But there's a certain freedom in being able to try and fail and get up to try again out in the open. Just something I've been working out with myself. Trying to let go and just accept yourself right where you are. Many of us go through life hiding parts of ourselves. Why? Because we think people will not accept us. While that's true, some people will not accept you for who you really are, but they may not be the right people to have in your life. Abandoning all opinions and letting go, being true to yourself.. This is will lead you to your most true self, and in turn the company of those you keep may change, but if you're willing to take the leap of faith into the unknown for a while, you just might come upon something simple and glorious. 

So I've been reading this really awesome and encouraging book called the Happiness Project and it's so chock full of good quotes.. Today as I set out to get my daily dose of nature, sunshine, and exercise, I've been thinking on this one quote in particular:  "What you do everyday matters more than what you do every once in a while" and also another quote about us all having the same 24 hours each day....Well as I'm thinking on that, I really want to try to spend my 24 a little bit wiser.. Like when I'm bored, instead of picking up my phone, pick up my book..or going out into the city or write. I've realized how even having time to be bored is a luxury! And I don't want to waste that being time absorbed in Internet nonsense! Lol. There are just too many amazing things outside your front door that are waiting if you cherish that 30mins or an hour spots where you have free time throughout the day. Even with 10 minutes, you can give your self a mini vacay. So let's get lost!

Hey guys! I have a show at J and O's Cantina August 30th for STARVING ARTFEST! I'll be playing with some other great bands like YOU AND I UNDERWATER and INFINITE AGENDA. Come hang out, grab a drink, and show me some love! 

Here's a link to the event:

https://www.facebook.com/events/698083863598574/

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