Hello friends!

 

Lately, I’ve been spending a lot of time in the car and on my phone—back and forth with endless texts and calls as we care for my father. It’s a season that demands presence, patience, and more love than words can hold. And while this role is deeply meaningful, it can also be exhausting. Somewhere between the phone calls and the quiet moments of waiting, I get to practice and remember: self-care isn’t optional—it’s oxygen.

 

I feel grateful to still have a parent over 90 to love and care for. It’s a gift I don’t take lightly, even on the hard days.

 

In my book(soon to be out in the world), More than Millions: Finding the Gold Within, I share my guiding principles. 

“The Seven” are the truths that have shaped my life and continue to do so. Self-care is one of them. For me, it shows up in everyday rituals that keep me grounded: a deep breath before I turn the key in the ignition, choosing food that fuels me (even when I really want the apple fritter), a quick walk to clear my head, or saying no when yes would stretch me too thin.

 

And lately—my favorite—a few minutes of dancing every day. It doesn’t matter if it’s in the kitchen, the backyard, or (yes) my car. Music up, body moving—it always shifts my energy. Dancing, thankfully, isn’t something you have to be good at. You just have to be willing to feel the beat and let go.

 

Here’s the truth: when we take care of ourselves, we have more to give. More patience. More clarity. More heart. It’s not selfish—it’s sacred. It’s how we keep showing up for the people we love without losing ourselves along the way.

 

So today, this is my reminder to you (and to me): fill your cup first. Your health, your peace, your joy—it all matters. Especially when life gets busy, messy, and beautifully human.