Posted in Amy Douangmany, Blog, Romance, Self Reflection

🌎🎈🪡💘 🐳 Dear Diary, In my world, respect, trust, and honesty reign supreme

while chaos and uncertainty are banished to the shadows.

Yesterday morning, a torrent of emotions surged through my mind like a tempestuous sea. It’s a peculiar sensation, this incessant fixation on You, an unwelcome guest in the chambers of my thoughts. Yet, within this turmoil, a flicker of gratitude emerges, faint but undeniable. Our journey, fraught with trials and tribulations, unfolds like a worn-out tapestry, its threads frayed and faded, yet still clinging to a semblance of meaning.

It’s perplexing, really, how our perspectives diverge, unable to meet at a common vantage point. Everything appears hazy and indistinct, like the lingering remnants of a dream. What it is exactly, I cannot fathom, but its presence looms over me, casting shadows of uncertainty.

In the stillness of the night, a different narrative unfolds, weaving threads of introspection and revelation. The more we resist, the more entangled we become, ensnared in the very web we seek to escape. Love, once pursued with fervor, now eludes me like a fleeting shadow, its allure diminished by the weight of reality.

Vulnerability, a sacred offering bestowed upon the worthy, becomes a precarious tightrope walk between intimacy and insecurity. The struggle is real, the battle against mismatched desires and divergent paths, a perpetual dance of missed steps and misplaced beats.

Exhaustion settles like a heavy shroud, a testament to the relentless pursuit of productivity and fulfillment. The dichotomy of gendered emotions surfaces, challenging preconceived notions and societal norms. Love, a precious commodity, comes at a cost too steep to bear, its currency measured in heartache and disillusionment.

The prospect of growth, of embarking on new adventures untethered by the whims of others, fills me with anticipation. In my world, respect, trust, and honesty reign supreme, while chaos and uncertainty are banished to the shadows.

And yet, despite the chasm that separates us, a lingering sadness persists, a reminder of what could have been. The realization dawns like a bitter truth, casting a pall over my weary soul. In the depths of despair, a flicker of resilience remains, a testament to the indomitable spirit within.

In the quiet solitude of 3:05 AM, amidst the ebb and flow of emotions, a simple truth emerges. Sometimes, our favorite places change, just as our favorite people do, leaving us adrift in a sea of uncertainty.

Posted in Amy Douangmany, Blog, Healing, Self Reflection

🌻🥧☀️🌡📦 Dear Diary, The air carries a gentle warmth

inviting relaxation and a sense of serenity.

Under the radiant Sacramento sky, with temperatures soaring to a delightful 76 degrees, every moment feels like a blissful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The air carries a gentle warmth, inviting relaxation and a sense of serenity.

After completing my spring cleaning rituals, I carefully stow away my winter attire, making space for the vibrant array of floral summer dresses awaiting their moment in the sun.

It’s easy to overlook the subtle risks we face daily. As time drifts by, a sudden wave of dizziness washes over me, prompting a moment of confusion. Fatigue, hunger, or perhaps mere exhaustion crosses my mind, but the sensation persists, hinting at something more serious. With a cautious resolve, I rise from my seat and make my way to the door, eager to escape the stifling heat of the sauna.

While saunas offer a myriad of health benefits, including detoxification, it’s crucial to acknowledge the delicate balance between indulgence and overexertion. Like any indulgence, an excess of sauna time can lead to overheating and even fainting, underscoring the importance of moderation in all aspects of life.

Reflecting on this, I’m reminded of the universal truth that too much of anything, be it water, affection, or selflessness, can have detrimental effects. As I yearn for a tranquil environment to simply exist, I’m reminded of the necessity of maintaining equilibrium and prioritizing self-care.

Posted in Amy Douangmany, Blog, Healing, Self Reflection

🐱🍞🧀🥑🧋Dear Diary, No one talks about what happens

when the adrenaline of survival fades away.

In the stillness of 1:38 AM, when the world is hushed and the chaos of survival subsides, a rare moment emerges for contemplation. Here, in this silent sanctuary, the floodgates of grief open, allowing for reflection upon the mishandlings of the past. Perspectives shift as the harsh realities come into focus, urging a more pragmatic outlook.

No one talks about what happens when the adrenaline of survival fades away. Let me shed light on it. In the tranquility of silence, I find space to grieve and ponder the mishandling of situations. It’s in these moments that my perspective shifts, prompting a more grounded and realistic understanding of things.

The pursuit of personal fulfillment becomes the demands of others, leading to the systematic dismantling of one’s security, stability, and happiness. Countless battles waged silently, hidden from the world’s gaze, met with indifference or hostility from those who wish to see defeat rather than resilience.

There were countless moments when I felt defeated, yet no one knew the struggles I faced. It seemed like others were rooting for my failure, unable to bear the idea of my success. I struggle to understand why we can’t support each other and strive for the best together. I believe in divine timing—what’s meant for you will come to you. If you’re sincere and dedicated, obstacles won’t hinder your path to success.

I link my Bluetooth to the Harmon Kardon speaker and cue up music from my Amazon Likes playlist. While my little chefs prepare breakfast, I attend to the household chores, folding blankets into makeshift beds. The laughter of children in the kitchen—offers a fleeting respite from the storm. The weather is lovely, prompting me to open the blinds and sliding door to let in the fresh air. However, my gaze falls upon my cat’s cage outside, a lingering reminder of a task I’ve been struggling to complete. I hope to dismantle it soon and rid myself of its presence.

A visit to the temple, Wat Phosiesattanak, in hopes of encountering my father, only to find he has already departed, brings a sense of belonging, a connection to heritage and community. I tuned in with the familiar sights and sounds. Nevertheless, we indulge in Thai tea and cultural foods, relishing the sense of belonging among familiar faces. This is as connected as I’ll ever be with anyone, just the surface level. Can’t go deep because I don’t want to get caught up in the whirlwind. On the surface level, I can satisfy my needs for H2O, Vitamin D, and Vitamin Me.

Posted in Akira, Amy Douangmany, Blog, Healing, parenting, Self Reflection

🦋🥛🎡🌄📷 Dear Diary, Today unfolded as a day of introspection and gratitude.

Despite grappling with the challenges of aging,

I found solace in the inner peace and youthful spirit that still resided within me. Though my body and mind may undergo changes, I’ve come to accept and embrace the natural progression of life. In a society fixated on concealing signs of aging through cosmetic means, I advocate for a different approach – one that prioritizes inner contentment and confidence.

Reflecting on my influence on others, I’m humbled by the impact I’ve had on those around me, particularly my loved ones who witness both the highs and lows of my journey. Their appreciation for my outlook on life, characterized by a pursuit of peace, love, and happiness, fills me with gratitude.

The morning brought simple joys as I sat with my daughters, planning breakfast and engaging in a round of card games. Through these activities, I seized the opportunity to impart valuable lessons to my children, teaching them about memory, patience, and the acceptance of both success and failure.

Amidst the rush of daily routines, a tender moment with my youngest daughter, Akira, reminded me of the beauty in simplicity. As I helped my youngest daughter out of the shower and dressed her, we both applied lotion. She looked up at me and uttered those precious words, “Mom, your face looks pretty.” Her heartfelt compliment, one she shares with me often, never fails to touch my heart. It’s a simple gesture that reminds me of the beauty found in the everyday moments of motherhood. Her genuine compliment about my appearance, delivered with innocence and sincerity, touched me deeply. Despite my disheveled state, her words reaffirmed the unconditional love we share.

The experience of using Google often stirs up a range of emotions within me, particularly when old memories resurface – whether they’re from 14 years ago, six years ago, or nine years ago. Recently, I found myself delving into a trove of photos, prompting me to share them with friends. Among those recipients was my best friend, Bao Nguyen Lee, from childhood, with whom I exchanged heartfelt text messages, expressing my deep appreciation for our enduring friendship. It’s moments like these that remind me of the value of lifelong connections and the importance of acknowledging the bonds that have shaped my journey. As I expressed gratitude for her unwavering support, I marveled at the bond shared among us, united by the journey of motherhood and the trials of life.

Overwhelmed by emotions, I found myself immersed in memories and nostalgia, spurred by glimpses of the past through old photographs.

Lately, I’ve been busy crafting meal plans and tackling errands, but I’ve come to realize that these tasks are integral parts of life’s journey. It’s not solely about reaching specific destinations; rather, it’s about embracing the experiences woven into each day – from preparing meals to running errands. Alongside these daily routines, I find joy in sharing the wisdom I’ve accumulated with my loved ones, witnessing their growth and vitality. As I navigate the process of aging, I welcome the evolution of my mindset, ever hopeful that I’ll continue to grow and adapt to life’s ever-changing circumstances.

A glimmer of hope emerged as I contemplated the possibility of finding a true companion – a confidant who understands and accepts me unconditionally. Beyond mere romance, I yearn for a connection rooted in genuine understanding and mutual respect, a bond that transcends the passage of time.

In these moments of reflection, I am reminded of the richness of life’s tapestry, woven with threads of love, friendship, and personal growth. As I continue on this journey, I remain hopeful for the enduring companionship and meaningful connections that lie ahead.

Posted in Amy Douangmany, Blog, Healing, Self Reflection

🚿 💭 🛌 ❤️‍🩹💇🏻‍♀️ Dear Diary, In a moment of clarity, a realization dawned upon me,

and with a resolute decision, I determined that a transformation was necessary—a shedding of the old self to embrace the new.

Though I remain adorned with wisdom, knowledge, kindness, goodness, self-awareness, and accountability, I yearned for a fresh iteration of myself.

As I stood beneath the cascading water of the shower, time seemed to stretch infinitely, each droplet washing away the remnants of my former self. With meticulous care, I attended to my grooming, a ritual of self-care and renewal. It became apparent that when my external appearance faltered, my inner state followed suit, leaving me feeling less than my best.

Days spent confined to the sanctuary of my bed revealed the interconnectedness of physical and emotional well-being. Each ache of the body mirrored the pains of the heart, amplifying the urgency of my quest for transformation. In the solace of introspection, I recognized the necessity of nurturing both body and soul to achieve harmony and fulfillment in the journey towards self-discovery.