New Me, New year of 46!

Last year, turning 45 felt amazing. I was so happy, and it truly felt like my life was just beginning. Everything was wonderful. Then came last October, which was devastatingly rough when Robert Strohmeier passed away. My love for Robert was deep, and losing him along with the life we shared was the hardest thing I have ever gone through. Moving away from the perfect apartment I loved was tough, but living with family was the best choice for me at the time. Life had changed so quickly. Through it all, my community, my church, and endless prayers carried me. I cried out to the Lord constantly to help me through the deep pain. I really had to pick myself up from the weight of my grief. The lowest point came during the winter. So much had happened that there were times I felt like I wasn't even truly living. I wasn't the same smiling Isleen everyone knew. I had to face choices I never dreamed I would have to make. The turning point came at the gym. I decided to get back on the rowing machine after I found a strand of Robert’s hair on my workout gloves. I’m not sure why or how it got there, but in that moment, I knew I couldn't give up on moving forward. Slowly, I began meeting new friends and coming back to life. I started volunteering on Saturdays at the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society thrift store. Folding Marine uniforms for active-duty members brought me so much joy even the drive onto the base every Saturday filled my heart. I know Robert would be proud of me for serving. In the spring, I also began volunteering with a Doberman rescue, and I loved every minute of hugging those dogs. Volunteering has been the best medicine for my grief; serving others is a constant reminder that life isn't just about our own pain, but about reaching out to help others. So, what does 46 look like? In some ways, it feels like 26 when I was trying to finish my undergraduate degree, at 36, I was hoping to marry my long-term ex boyfriend at the time. But at 46, things are different. Life is beginning with a fresh, new direction.For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." — Jeremiah 29:11