I am so excited to dive into sharing my life and experiences with anyone and everyone who finds comfort in my story.

I am 20 years old and from Bolingbrook, Illinois. I go to school at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and I am studying to be a nurse- YAY! I am the middle child of a family of five and love each and every one of my family members dearly. They have been there for me through thick and thin, and I could not be more blessed to have them. My parents have encouraged me to be the best version of myself that I can possibly be. They have pushed me farther in my faith, encouraged me through my education, and supported me in my decisions. They also have shown me grace in my worst moments and loved me throughout my mistakes, even when I didn't love myself.

Self love has become an important part of my life, but it once was not. Without realizing all life has to offer and all I have to contribute to it, I would not be who I am today. Maybe that's cliche, but it's true. My future posts will dive deeper into everything I've experienced and learned, but without the challenges of an ill body, the battle with mental illness, and lack of self worth, I would have never been able to transform into the person I am!

A therapist of mine once told me that my story needed to be heard. She suggested writing a book to do this, but I am excited to be starting this blog because my recovery is an ongoing story that doesn't come with a "The End"; it is constantly growing and shaping me into the person I strive to be. I can continue to use this blog as a way to share the day to day process of becoming this person I aspire to be.

"Discomfort is the price of admission to a meaningful life." — Susan David

I have always struggled with being vulnerable and uncomfortable because it leaves other people with the opportunity to judge me and see my imperfections. However, I'm doing this and becoming an open book for the whole world to see (And let me tell you, I'm terrified). This has the opportunity to become a positive experience for me and my readers, so it is worth the fear and discomfort that comes along with it. I hope you all think so too!

Happy reading!

XO

Mal