As I lay pondering my next month's challenge I determined to make an attempt to use what had inspired me this week to my advantage.  While watching the documentary "Fasting: The Movie" I was impressed that members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints would be interviewed when covering the topic of religious fasting.  I was inspired to increase the effectiveness of my fasting by adding prayer.
Over the past few years I have been focused on a study of self-actualization ideas taught in a online certification study known as "The Creation School."  It has taught me how to better meditate as a form of prayer.  The teacher of the courses in certification program has recently called attention to what she calls an expansion of her faith.  I do not pretend to know what she fully intends to define as her expansion but I have recently been noting how many members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in my circle, whether that circle be only those who I follow in social media channels or amongst my former ward members, have publicly declared that they are choosing to no longer associate with or hold membership in the church.  
I felt impressed that I my  meditation and prayer will focus on faith.
While others may be comfortable with redefining their faith, I aim to delineate it. My purpose in this month is to contextualize my faith. I seek to rebut the questions that could lead me astray. I am a witness of God at all times and in all things and in all places. I will defend my choice to continue in faith. There may be a collective and accurate memory of the past ways in which I have not been a strong witness, nevertheless, I aim to change that perspective in these entries.

Introduction

In the quiet embrace of September, the leaves begin to change, and the air carries a promise of transformation. It is in this month that I embark on a journey—one that will span an entire year and bring me face to face with the essence of self-improvement.

This blog is a chronicle of that journey, a journey that unfolds month by month, each chapter marked by a unique challenge. In the coming posts, you will accompany me through a tapestry of experiences, both physical and spiritual, that I hope might reshape my perspective on faith, health, and the power of the human spirit.

Fasting into Fall (September) - We begin in September, as the days grow shorter and the world prepares for a season of change. It's a fitting backdrop for the challenge that awaits me: intermittent fasting. The physical and mental metamorphosis that comes with fasting for 16 hours each day sets the stage for the transformative odyssey that follows.

This developing list is what I have planned, I may vary somewhat from this plan. I may redefine the goals I set in the months to come. For now here is where you can find my ideas for the next year.

Mindful Moments (October) - October beckons with a call to mindfulness. Daily meditation becomes the cornerstone of this month, as we delve into the depths of my desire for self-awareness and inner calm.

Gratitude Gathering (November) - As the holiday season approaches, I  embrace the practice of gratitude journaling. In November, I will explore the profound impact of acknowledging life's blessings and embracing positivity.

Digital Detox Delight (December) - December, a time when screens often steal our attention, becomes a month of digital detox. Disconnecting from technology, we uncover the beauty of being present in the here and now. It will be a challenge for me to do this at the very time I will want to keep you posted.  I am intentionally planning the detox to coincide with or plans to visit Germany to see our son and grandchildren living there.  I promise to only check in during focused planned time for reflection on my quest.

Mindful Eating Month (January) - January ushers in a fresh start with mindful eating. The sensory journey of each meal reveals the intricate relationship between nourishment and self-awareness.  Many include new eating habits as "New Year's Resolutions." I plan to dive a little deeper.

Fitness Focus (February) - With February comes a dedication to physical fitness. I continuously strive to establish a consistent exercise routine and witness the profound transformation of body and spirit.  As my birthday is celebrated in February I hope to witness a renewal of my efforts even though I already work on this each month.

Skillful Learning (March) - March invites me to embrace new skills and passions unrelated to my daily routines. It's a month of exploration, as I embark on a journey of self-discovery into new interests.

The Love Dare (April) - In April Dave and I will celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary, so, love takes center stage with "The Love Dare" challenge. This month is a testament to the power of love. 

Memoirs in May (May) - As spring blooms, I embark on the journey of writing a personal memoir. May becomes a canvas for reflecting on a lifetime of experiences and insights.

Journey of Prayer (June) - June unfolds as a spiritual pilgrimage, a month of prayer journaling. Through introspection and connection with the divine, I will delve into the realm of faith and self-discovery.

Acts of Kindness in July (July) - The summer sun witnesses acts of kindness. The Christmas season is usually the time when the act of giving is celebrated.  There is often heard the idea of "Christmas in July" so I am celebrating that there is no need to wait for one specific day to celebrate love, friendship and peace. I plan to pay forward the lessons learned and spread compassion far and wide.

Adventure Awaits (August) - My journey culminates in August with an adventure challenge. I will embrace the great outdoors, celebrating the physical and spiritual growth achieved over the past year.

Hello from the heart of Redding, California! I'm Kathryn, and I'm embarking on a profound journey of personal transformation over the next year. While my professional life is an important part of me, this story is about my inner growth and evolution.

The past two years hav been a rollercoaster of self-discovery, resilience, and empowerment. As someone who can talk for hours about homebirth and women's rights to bodily autonomy, I've always been deeply passionate about advocating for these important causes. However, this journey isn't about my work; it's about my personal growth and transformation.

Living in Redding, I've found inspiration in the beauty of nature that surrounds me. The tranquility of nature, my dear friends and family, my community and the many hours of study are playing a pivotal role in my transformation. But the heart of this journey lies within me.

Over the past few months, I've delved deep into understanding my own strengths, vulnerabilities, and the essence of who I am as a person. I've faced challenges head-on and discovered reservoirs of resilience I didn't know existed.

This blog is a testament to my journey—a place where I share the lessons I'm learning, the personal transformations I've experienced, and the beauty of self-discovery. It's a space where I connect with a diverse community of individuals who, like me, are on their unique paths of growth and transformation.

I'll be sharing stories of triumph, moments of vulnerability, and insights gained through introspection. It's a glimpse into the inner world of someone who is passionate about empowering women, but who also values the power of personal transformation.

Join me on this voyage through the highs and lows of my year of self-discovery. Let's celebrate the beauty of transformation, both within ourselves and in the world around us. Together, we can inspire and uplift one another as we continue to evolve on this incredible journey called life.

Thank you for being a part of my personal transformation story.