Well, here we are – 3 weeks into December! Have you been intentional about how you have been spending your time this season? Have you been intentional about who you are spending your time with this season? Have you been enjoying yourself and Taking Care of yourself? I sure hope so because I want you to look back at this season with a smile and positive memories. Is there something you need to change now to make sure you have pleasant memories?

I HAVE BEEN BUSY! What have I been doing? Writing and publishing a book! Yes, my very first book – Adventures in Love! I absolutely loved writing the book and I been so excited to share the book with everyone. I’ve been working in the mental health field for more than 25 years and married for 18 years! I used my professional and personal knowledge and experience to write this book for individuals and couples.

This book will help couples improve their relationships and individuals who want help being better equipped in their next relationship. Anyone committed to putting in the work that this book requires will gain improved self-awareness and increased understanding of their partner. This book can help people at any stage of their relationship. Newlyweds trying to figure things out – this book is for you. Married for decades, many things change over the years, please take this opportunity to discover new things about yourself and your partner.  

Curious about topics in the book?

• Values & Beliefs

• Health

• Conflict

• Intimacy

• Boundaries

• Communication

• Family Planning

Although I enjoyed writing the book, the process involved in publishing has been HARD. Ya’ll know, I say, “We Can Do Hard Things.” During this challenging time, I’ve had some conflicting feelings to say the least. Worried, frustrated, scared, overwhelmed, disappointed, confused, pressured, skeptical, uncomfortable, and vulnerable. Additionally, I been happy, proud, confident, courageous, thankful, trusting, optimistic, hopeful, and inspired. 

AND RIGHT NOW I’M TIRED!

I must admit that I have not consistently maintained work life balance or my routines. I have not completely gone off the rails, but I need to be more intentional about my balance and self-care. This is my favorite season, and I need to make sure the season does not end without me engaging in some of my favorites of the season. I have soooo many Christmas movies I want to watch, cookies to bake, and naps to enjoy. I need to spend time with my family and simply relax, so I can look back at this time with a smile and fond memories.

Despite being in the beginning stage of selling my first book, I will be completely unplugging for the next few days. I need to slow down and rejuvenate. I have been multi-tasking, and I need to be present during my time of self-care. 

My baby girl reminded me of the necessity of self-care a couple of weeks ago. She simply said, “Mommy you need to rest too.” She is absolutely positively correct, and I love that she reminded me. I’m thankful that she recognizes the importance of SELF-CARE. Sometimes we need reminders of the things we know to be true and to do the things that are helpful for our overall well-being. 

Here’s your reminder, Take Care of yourself. Slow down and enjoy yourself. (Check out previous blogs on Self-Care Part 1 on 5/29/25 and Self-Care Part 2 on 7/7/2025).

Ya’ll this all I got! I’ll be back soon to share more details about my book. Until then, more information can be found on my AUTHOR WEBSITE. Cindy Navarro of CNCO Design Studio is awesome (cindy@cncodesignstudio.com) and continue to visit my YouTube Channel that focuses on All Things Mental Health.

Until Next Time Take Care,

Darsha D!