Over the holidays I received lots of family pictures, you know, the new trend of sending the picture postcard? Everyone’s happy, smiling, perfect. I heard the other day that relationships, like these pictures, always look good and pretty on the outside, but sometimes the picture is not always what it seems. What’s easier for people to see? Obviously the pretty, but people’s lives are never truly picture perfect are they? They’re messy and complicated sometimes. Over the past several months to a year, I have been referring to a personal issue in my life that I have been navigating through outside of cancer. I read this quote ‘I know of nothing more valuable when it comes to the all important virtue of authenticity then simply being who you are.’~Charles Swindoll. Last week I wrote about a shift that had occurred in my life, a death and a birth; last week I became a divorced woman and a single mother. I’m sure many of you are surprised and I will not go into details, but it was not something done lightly. If you have been reading my blog for some time, you know me fairly well by now. I am a survivor. I was asked by a couple people this past week who my safety net was, who I was ‘gunning’ for, and my response was quick, no one, there is nobody else. I am finally aiming for me; my safety net is God. Like I said in my blog a few weeks ago, no one knows what happens behind closed doors and I will leave it at that. Now, I move forward with even more strength, courage, and hope for a beautiful future. I hope you stay with me in my complicated journey called life. One more quote,‘We have to dare to be ourselves, however frightening or strange that self may prove to be’~ Mary Sarton. 
So here I am, trying to be authentic and unapologetically me.
No lipstick today, just me 🙂
Anna's Lipstick Journey 
I am sorry to hear this news, but not worried about you for one minute. You are woman and I’ve heard you roar! Our strength is omnipresent and without end…March on, my amazing friend, March on. I got cher back, if ya need me!
Thanks Jo! Funny you said ‘roar’, my daughter called me Katy Perry the other day after listening to that song. Now, to move forward and march on!
Anna, I am woman who had to make that decision in my life years ago. I did not know what to do, so I prayed and prayed to God to give me a sign it was the right choice. Two days later I knew. As hard as it was, I truly believe it saved my life. I was in a very bad place. I thank God for what I have been given, He is a Gracious, Glorious God. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. If you ever need an ear please feel free to call me. 586-453-9661. Nancy DeLaere
Thank you Nancy! Trusting God all the way!
God bless you and guide you down your new path. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I have no doubt that you will live your life to the fullest!
Thank you Carole!