Happy Wednesday! It’s time for this month’s LET’S LOOK!
If you don’t know what this is, once a month, Erika and I do a little link up where we “look” at different aspects of our lives (and then if you blog, you share and link up too!). We have been doing this little linky party for years now, and it’s always one of my favorite posts each month because most of the topics are YOUR suggestions!
Don’t forget, tomorrow is the last day to enter SHAY’S ONE BIG DAY GIVEAWAY where two winners will each receive gift cards to both Amazon and Nordstrom. ENTER HERE!
Alrighty, just as a reminder, here’s what we’ve “looked at”so far this year…
In January, we looked at LOW LEVEL GOALS FOR 2025.
In February, we looked at HOW WE WORK ON OUR MARRIAGE.
In March, we looked at HOW WE RESET FOR THE WEEK ON SUNDAYS.
In April, we looked at MAINTAINING FRIENDSHIPS.
In May, we looked at OUR WELLNESS ROUTINES.
In June, we looked at OUR TRAVEL BUCKET LIST.
This month, I am sharing a look at THINGS I’VE CHANGED MY MIND ABOUT (and Erika is enjoying her family vacation 🙂 ).
Awwwww, well. I have certainly changed my mind about a million different things over my lifetime.
The beauty of documenting your life for almost 18 years (almost 18 years!) is that you really get to look back and see the changes. In photos. With captions. And strangers’ comments. Ha! It’s a wild thing.
Thank GOODNESS I have changed my mind on so many things. I would hate to think that who I am today and who I was when I was 25 was the same. Isn’t growth, wisdom, experience, and maturity the goal for all of us? I hope that when I’m 61 and look back over these next 18 years, I see even more change.
The list is very long, but right now, I am going to just sit here and rattle off the top ones that come to mind. Some silly, some serious. All things I’ve changed my mind about.
Here are just a few…
1: LIVING IN MCKINNEY, TX
Twenty years ago, I did not want to live in McKinney, TX. As someone who grew up in Dallas County, McKinney felt far away from anything I wanted to do, it felt small town, it was not close enough to my parents, it was really close to the Oklahoma border (which made it feel super far)…I was not a fan of moving to McKinney (and I was pretty vocal about it to the hubs). After living in McKinney about 24 hours, I realized I had been totally wrong and McKinney was amazing. Not only was it not small/not in a bad location/not too far from my parents…but it was charming and cute and wholesome and sweet and the perfect mix of “old town” and “new”. I’ve told you this story before, and I’ve always ended it with “when I die, bury me in McKinney, TX”…but guess what, I changed my mind about that too.
Yup, I changed my mind about something that was already a “change”.
I love McKinney but who knows what my life will look like when I die. It’s a great town, but is it my forever? I don’t know? Age an experience and the opportunity to go other places and having kids who seem excited to live elsewhere when they’re older…I’m not sure. Cremate me and then someone can move me about and spread me around. I love you, McKinney. You have been nothing but a blessing to me in more ways than I could count…but I don’t think I need to be buried with you.
2: BEING A RUNNER
I mean, I’m still a runner, but after 24 years, I am no longer a RUNNER. I used to think running was “the answer” for me. It was my “me time”, my exercise, my way to make my body better…until I got old and entered menopause and realized it just did not serve me like it used to. If you would have told me 5 years ago that I would hang up my shoes and change my mind for heavy weights, I would have thought you were mad.
3: HAVING A CAREER
This one really surprised me! I grew up with a mom who had a career, and I’ve always been a worker bee (I got my first job when I was 14 and haven’t stopped), but I never imagined having a “career” myself. You know, a big girl job with big girl responsibilities and people who count on me. I thought it was for “other people” who knew more/had more experience/had more time/had bigger goals/had a different skill set…I don’t know? I changed my mind big time though because working is truly one of my very favorite things. I get excited EVERY SINGLE DAY about my career.
4: HAVING FOUR KIDS
I wanted two girls. Two. That’s all. It never even crossed my mind to have three kids. When I had one girl and then a boy (a boy?!), I really thought I was done. My mom had two kids. My aunt and uncle had two kids. My grandparents had two kids. Growing up, all of my besties were a sibling set of two kids. Two kids was the only way. If you would have told me 15 years ago that not only would I not have two kids, but I would have FOUR KIDS, I would have really thought you were crazy. THANK THE LORD I changed my mind about only having two kids.
But…
As I’ve mentioned before, Andrew and I tried for years and years to adopt more kids…and there was a time when I thought I’d be a mom with more than four kids. Even if my intentions were good and my heart was broken, I am incredibly grateful the Lord knew my number was four. I can’t live in the “what ifs” on this side of that kind of loss, but I can rest in the peace that God changed my mind not once but twice that my “number of kids” was in His hands and it was perfect and complete.
5: BUILDING A {FOREVER} HOUSE
Andrew and I were pretty vocal that we never wanted to build a house. We liked the charm and character of older homes in our community…but as you know, eleven years ago, we changed our minds and built our “forever” home in McKinney.
But….(the theme to today’s post apparently)…
…I’m not so sure it is my forever home. It is an amazing home to raise my family. We love our neighborhood and friends and all of the memories we’ve made over these last 11 years. We’ve brought two kids home to this house, celebrated all of our good days and bad days here, raised a family inside…but I’m not sold on it being “forever” now. Forever is a long time. I might need a change once those kiddos don’t live there any longer. I might want to let another family make their memories inside. I’m not sure, but I’m not holding tightly to the “forever home” phrase any more.
6: ENJOYING SPRING
My world very much revolves around the seasons. It always has and I suspect it always will. I love anything and everything “seasonal”, but for YEARS, I was vocal about struggling with enjoying spring. It wasn’t my cozy winter, and yet, it wasn’t my sunny summer. It was this odd season between two great seasons (and opposite the absolute best season), and I couldn’t find my groove. Looking back, I really think COVID is what changed my mind. I was forced to be home, stay inside, stick to my yard and find all the fun things that spring had to offer and now, I am a BIG fan of this season. I mean, it’s no autumn, but it sure can hang with winter and summer now.
7: HAVING FOUR DOGS
Only crazy people have four dogs.
Thank goodness I changed my mind about that one.
8: RAW FISH
Ten years ago, I turned my nose up to sushi and raw fish. Gross, gag. No thank you.
True story, yesterday, I had a tuna poke bowl for lunch and another one for dinner.
Yes.
I love raw fish.
I literally eat it twice a day some days.
I clearly changed my mind.
9: PARENTING
I was the world’s greatest mom until I was a mom.
Having children changed my mind entirely on parenting.
Spoiler alert: it’s harder than it looks.
10: MY HAIR
I’m just going to let that photo speak for itself.
11: NEUTRALS
If you go back in the archives you will see that my entire wardrobe was neon. That sentence isn’t a joke, it is the absolute TRUTH. I wanted color, color, give me all the COLOR. About two or three years ago, I changed my mind and realized, I actually love neutrals. I almost exclusively wear neutral colors now (with some blue). Perhaps eventually I’ll change my mind back, but right now, my name is Shay, and I’ll take that top in black, please.
12: GETTING MORE SLEEP
I was the queen of little sleep. YOU GUYS changed my mind about that one 🙂 . It took you YEARS to convince me to sleep more, and now, I can’t imagine going back.
13: COFFEE
The girl who lived for lattes now only drinks her coffee black. What started as a “health” decision morphed into a preference. Now when my kids say “mom, try this” and hand me over their sweetened coffees, I lie to them and say it tastes delicious when inside I’m not loving the sugary sweet.
14: PRIVATE SCHOOL
Andrew and I were dedicated to “the system”. We have great public schools in McKinney and never looked elsewhere for our kids’ educations. And then all of a sudden, we saw that what used to work wasn’t working any more, and we moved Smith to another public school system which gave us the awareness to really look at each kid individually and it was abundantly clear that Mades needed to finish out elementary school somewhere smaller…and private. Andrew and I changed our minds big time about private school.
15: SAND
How many times have I blogged on here that I detest sand? At least fifty, right? I have said so many negative things about sand and how it gets everywhere and drives me mad and well, when you live on an island you learn quickly to love the sand. Now, sand doesn’t bother me one bit. It’s in my cars, it’s in my house, it’s on my shoes, it’s on me…it’s just sand, Shay. Chill.
And those are a few of the things I’ve changed my mind about 🙂 .
Okay, next time on Let’s Look, we are going to look at…
…JUGGLING FAMILY SCHEDULES!
Today, I’m also sharing MY SUMMER WELLNESS CHECK IN (how I’m doing thus far!)! Make sure you check out that post as well!
If you linked up today with us, please make sure you add your link below.
I can’t wait to see your lists in the comment section. Please share things you’ve changed your mind about too 🙂 .
Have the best Wednesday, friends! xx
Jami Romano says
I love this whole concept ◡̈ change can so good.
Jeanne Cobianchi says
Growing up I never wanted children. By the time I changed my mind it was too late. That was years ago. I wish we had explored adoption. God bless you and your family!
Jess says
I was waiting for your nightly brownie. LOL! As a long time reader, I chuckle whenever I read in your comments someone asking “but what about your nightly brownie!” I hope everyone is eating different than they did at 25!
Mix and Match Mama says
yes and amen!
Bren says
This is an amazing post, Shay. I’m in my mid 50’s and my new, I guess I’ll call it mantra, is all about reflection. I can learn so much from younger me and what I tend to reflect on frequently is how I’ve grown and changed over the years.
I would guess that one of my biggest changes is how I now live life in the present. Younger me was all about tomorrow. Someday I will…when I am (insert years old) then I will… While realistically there is still some of that, I try to not put things off anymore. If I think of someone, I try to text them or send a card, no more waiting for “next time I see them”. There’s something I want to try to do? I try to schedule it now or make a concrete plan for it to happen. It’s probably my age, but time doesn’t wait for anyone, and life can be short so each day I’m working on living life to the fullest – now.
Thank you for sharing things you’ve changed on. I must close by saying I saw that picture of you with much lighter hair and at first glance thought it was your beautiful mama!
Mix and Match Mama says
YES! Goodness, I echo all of this, Bren. I am striving every day to live in the present because the older I get, the more I really see how tomorrow is not guaranteed.
Dana P says
Yes to reaching out when you think of someone! And yes- I thought the same. For some reason, you look so much like your mom in that picture, Shay!
lee ann vicary says
I’m so glad to see that sooo many folks thought that was your mama – I’m 65 and I was looking on my computer screen at work (not the excuse of little phone screen) I was afraid my eyes had gotten worse. I moved back and forth a couple of times over the picture.
My life is nothing like I thought it was going to be. When the big changes happened I was very concerned – but the changes in my life have made things so much better. I’m happier and healthier – I can’t wait to see what changes happen in the next ten years.
Lori Sharp says
Both the post and the comments are wonderful! Everything you said Shay!! Except the black coffee…not there yet. 🙂
Kara says
Such a great post! I love the hair change.. I had super blonde dyed hair since 8th grade but let it grow out to my natural (same as yours!) color about 5 years ago and it’s so much easier! Also, I feel the “forever home” one so much! It’s just a house and I’ll always go with the “feeling” of home in any place! ❤️
Lisa D says
I completely agree — “it’s just a house”!
I’ve moved again this year and it’s probably not my last move either. And I’m in my mid-60’s 😊
I’ve started saying (to my husband and myself) “open hands”. By that I mean let go, relax the grip on things and stuff, stop grasping. “Let go and let God”.
Have a lovely day!
Debbra Weber says
LOVE THIS!!
Dana says
I loved those!! Great blog topic. I love how self-aware you are. It’s challenging me to think about some of those same things in my life.
Sheaffer says
Change is so often a great thing! But omg…. I never remember your hair being that color?!? I of course remember blonde, but not that particular shade.
Elspeth Mizner says
I’m only in my 20s but have definitely changed my mind about things especially when it comes to trying new things and pushing myself out of my comforts zone. It’s amazing where the most growth happens! Thanks for sharing!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Kim B says
What a great Let’s Look! Thank you for sharing and reflecting with us =-)
Vicky says
I don’t know about others, but occasionally I’ll find myself taking another look at something that’s very ‘ordinary’ and day-to-day and I realise that change has actually happened quietly and peacefully, without me even noticing. Sometimes that can be sad – and sometimes it’s really beautiful. Thank you for the reminder to embrace it.
Samantha Harris says
Shay, loved this post! ❤️
Erin says
As someone who doesn’t like change, I don’t mind it in small doses. I think a list like this is a reflection of how we change gradually without even realizing we have until reflecting upon it.
Katie Stewart says
Oh, that last sentence! 🥹
I relate to your blog for many reasons but the biggest reason is that I myself am a Type A (Type A+ really), and change can be HARRRRDDDDD. I look back on who I was 10 years ago (I started reading your blog 10 years ago!) and I feel incredibly blessed to have had this time… my 30s, to hone in on who I am and who I want to be as a Christ follower, a wife, mom, daughter, friend. This was actually something I prayed about just last night. ❤️
And you know I’m gonna say it. The hair evolution is just insanely good! You’ve inspired me to lean into my natural color… gradually! I’m still very much a blonde but I’m hoping to slowly pull more and more natural (darker) blonde through!
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh wow, thank you for sharing YOUR heart this morning too. xx
Jeanie H says
My husband and I both retired at 57 and it kind of threw our lives into a tailspin for a while. We didn’t know whether to travel, be snow birds or what but we have figured it out and have bought our dream house and are selling the “forever house”, selling the vacation house so we don’t feel so committed to using it instead of traveling and are living your best lives at 60. 🙂
Taylor says
This is one of my favorite posts you’ve ever done! My husband and I just had our second baby and we feel DONE. But…this makes me wonder if I’ll change my mind in a few years..
Mix and Match Mama says
You just never know 🙂 .
Karen says
Love this post. A great exercise in reflection that we should all do.
Sarah Shaneyfelt says
One thing I have NOT changed my mind about is raw fish. Yuck! I still can’t bring myself to even try it LOL
MeetTheShaneyfelts
Grace says
Wow, what a wonderful post! It also made me think about some things in my life that I have changed my mind about as well over the years and reflect.
I also used to be a sweet coffee drinker and now it is just black. Just a scoop of collagen in the morning coffee now as I have gotten older for health reasons. The second cup is where it is just black with no sweetners just the flavor of coffee.
Thanks for sharing this post, I loved it!
Melissa Terry says
This is my favorite post you’ve done in a long time. What a gift to look back and see how we’ve grown and how the Lord has changed us. Thanks for letting us all tag along xo
Clarinda Zavala says
Change is always good. It does help you grow and not matter where you are in your life everything is always changing.
Dana P says
This is a fun one and one that would be a fun conversation starter, too. Well, maybe with light topics! Some things I’ve changed my mind on:
-Going all in isn’t often the answer or necessary. Sometimes a nice moderate position is helpful. 🙂 I’m especially talking about food trends, health and wellness, etc.
-Olives are good! I hated them for about 35 years of my life and then one day, I told myself I was going to start liking them. It totally worked and now I actually love them?! We really can change!
-Like you with neon, I used to really gravitate toward patterns until one day a very chic friend told me she sticks with solids. She was right! I still love a good print or logo, but I’ve found that solids really stand the test of time.
-fresh cut flowers. I used to think they were just a waste of money because they just die. But now I absolutely love them and wish I could have them all the time. And bonus-they are such a nice thing to give, too. A friend brought a bouquet over yesterday and absolutely made my day!
Mix and Match Mama says
I love, love your list, Dana! xx
Andrea says
I love this post. i think the older we get, the more we realize how much we change and change our minds on things 🙂
Laci says
Amen to changing our minds and seeing all sorts of things differently than maybe 20 years ago!
Natalie Alvarado says
I love the “Later” poem or quote you shared at the end. It really spoke to me. Thank you! 😊
Susan says
love it, and that last quote/statement hit me right where I needed it. always putting off the fun stuff for the weekend or when we have more time to enjoy it. do it NOW who know if you’ll have the weekend or more time.
Carly says
Oh that last meme. Tears! I think one of the best things in life is that we get to change our minds.
Mix and Match Mama says
YES! I could not love this more!
Sarah C says
I loved this post so much! As someone who is very Type A/Enneagram 1/this is how I always do things, I’m starting to see that the things I said I’d NEVER do- be a SAHM, become a foster parent, etc- are my greatest gifts and such surprise blessings from the Lord! Thank goodness God keeps remolding my stubborn self to discover more of His goodness!
Mix and Match Mama says
I love this perspective!
Carrie Martens says
I love the idea that change can be good. It’s healthy and helps you grow. I KNOW you did not change your baseball team. That stays forever 😊
Mix and Match Mama says
Why would I want to leave the best team in baseball? Never 😉
TG says
Came here to say the same thing; I kept looking to see if Shay changed her mind on Andrew’s Yankees! ⚾️ 🥲🤣
Keri Lennox says
Leaving my hometown! I so badly wanted both of my kids to grow up and go to the same school that my husband and I did. Fast forward to a year later…NY -> TX here we are!
Mix and Match Mama says
Welcome to TX! 🙂
Sarah DeWald says
Oh my gosh – I love all of these! 🙂
Julie says
I love this, all of it! That phrase at the end, well I need to hang it on the wall.
Thanks Shay!!
Nicole says
Yes to running! And sleeping more! I keep waiting to see what your take on alcohol will be, I can’t hear it more in the wellness world about how alcohol is ruining my health, but I feel like when I look at you – you use it in a way where it enhances, not dulls and I love that. You always have balance with living life full and well and also with intention and health in mind. I would be a slave to the perfect nutrition and wellness routine at the expense of memories and living life big, and you are always a reminder of that to me! The queen of moderation and intention. 😇 This is why I ask the random questions, I love learning from you!
Mix and Match Mama says
I ALWAYS appreciate your questions, Nicole. It really connects us together in this community 🙂 .
Lynn says
I love this! Thanks for sharing. We do change and it is ok>
Paula Hobbs says
Oh, this post is AWESOME!! Change isn’t always a bad thing. Thank you for sharing.
Amanda Higdon says
I never truly think about how long I’ve been following your blog until I read a post like this and think, wow, it’s been a minute!
As a teacher, love that you’re focusing on what each of your kids need to learn rather than putting them all in the same box!
Kristin says
Thank you so much for sharing this! It is so important for us to listen and think and learn for our whole lives, and it only makes sense that we should change our minds about things, but so many people just don’t want to do it. It might mean you were wrong about something, or it might just mean that you’ve changed!
Elizabeth Feldpausch says
A post like this is such a great reminder that we need to always reflect on our self and I’m going to spend time today doing just that. Thank you!
Nicole says
I have one!! I’ve absolutely changed my mind about grocery delivery. Haha! Where would I be without it now? Also with kids in general, you change so much as your kids get older!
Kiley says
The sweet coffee’s really do get less appetizing with age!! We also recently switched from private TO public school and it’s been such a blessing. The jump was a tough decision but each kid is different and we’ve seen a ton of growth since switching!
Krista F says
This is such a great post! For some reason, it made me emotional. I will definitely be reflecting on how I have changed AND how I want to change. Thank you Shay!
Kathy says
This post was fun, and I think the one thing we can count on life, is change. Sometimes it’s easy to embrace, and other times it’s difficult. Thank goodness God’s love for us never changes.
Kristen says
Love this post! I myself look back on pictures of me with dyed bleach blonde hair and gasp! I feel like once you go blonde you just keep going lighter and lighter! I spent this year gradually going back to my natural color and it’s crazy how many compliments I get and people say I look younger.. I’ll take it! I turned 50 this year and I now say yes to everything where in past I said no a lot. I am trying to live in the moment!
Lori R says
I enjoyed reading your reflections. I have lived in my forever home for awhile but I am thinking it needs to be somebody else’s forever home now.
Lori R says
Change can be great! And sleep!!
Barbara A says
Changed my mind on many, many things over the past almost 70 years! Change is good!
Kelly Westbrook says
I loved reading these!!! It’s the old saying “Never say never”
Natasha says
One thing I’ve noticed is that I’ve changed my mind about things once I’ve tried them. For instance, working in the school system, I always assumed I’d gravitate towards being an elementary (K-6) school librarian. And then I realized that job wasn’t for me. So now I’m a secretary for middle schoolers (Gr 7 & 8). If you had told me five years ago this is where I’d be, I would have laughed so hard. Don’t knock it until you try it!
Also, I really think my kids have changed my minds on things too — I think good parenting is not only influencing them but letting them influence you too.
Leslie Wilcox says
Great post!
Krista S. Steenbergen says
All of these! I am 55 and have gained so much wisdom about “living in the moment” and what might or might not be important. Tomorrow is definitely not promised and I am living that right now.
Patty Anderson says
This is probably my favorite post you’ve ever done! As someone who plans ahead, it’s refreshing to know it’s ok to take things as they come and it’s definitely ok to change things up. My husband is currently retiring after 20 years in the USAF and 18 working for the DoD, so we have BIG changes ahead. No one will tell us where to move anymore. The kids are all in different states now. Where will we go? What will we do? So many things to think about. One thing we know for certain, unless God tells us otherwise, we want to move away from our current location in 2026. We just have to figure out where to go next. (After 38 years of being told where to go, it’s quite daunting to make that decision ourselves.)
Mix and Match Mama says
Wow! What a daunting but EXCITING new chapter. I’m excited to follow along! Please keep me posted!
Meghan says
Love this post! It gave me some things to think about and dare I say, change my mind?!
Crystal @ www.hallaroundtexas.com says
Such a fun topic! Quickly after becoming a mother I learned to “never say never”. 🙂 Change is healthy for growth!! And there can be beauty in change. I love all the things you shared about.
Kallen says
I’ve been following you for a long time and I can tell you right now you forgot one! 😉 You once said that we wouldn’t catch you on a Disney cruise. My has that changed 😆 Love this blog post….chage and evolution is only natural!
Mix and Match Mama says
That was a HUGE one for me! Bahahaha!
stacy says
I love McKinney, Texas too! I actually had the same reservations at first about how far north it was, but it’s truly such a charming place. Even if it is getting really big! I’d love to retire by a body of water someday. I love everything about a beach…even the sand! I’m definitely in the minority in our family with my opinion on sand!
We have two dogs, and while they bring so much joy, one of ours is having some health struggles now. It’s so hard to watch, and honestly makes me wonder if we could go through that heartache again in the future.
It was my teens who got me into sushi. I never thought it would appeal to me at all, and I still have a few hesitations about eating sushi here in Dallas! But they’ve managed to pull me into it little by little.
Thanks for sharing a bit of your life, it’s always nice to connect over these little things.
Tamara R says
This was great! Since our fave book has me thinking constantly thinking about choices for living my best life, the “forever home” has been something I have changed my mind on too! I think we may also end up somewhere else when the kids are out of the house.
Now…. I really need to know if you’ve officially changed your mind about preferring the pool to the beach? Are you a converted team beach girl now? 😘
Mix and Match Mama says
I have converted, friend. I have converted 😉 .
Jennie Storts says
I think I’ve changed my mind the most about my kids’ ages: I thought I would always like the littles stage best and that I would miss it so much as they got older. Turns out, I love each stage and this one (23, 20 and 17) might be the best one yet! I love spending time with my kids as adults (or almost adults) and I actually don’t miss the constant care parenting stage!
Tiffany says
Fun list! Love your hair change. When I got my hair colored this spring, I showed her your picture, as I wanted to move from being blond.
Allison says
Love this post!! Was hoping you’d share the cell phone belief change!? If I remember correctly, Kensington was almost a high schooler when she got one but Ashby is already carrying one in pics! I never wanted my kids to get them early either at first, but when your 5th grader has to walk home from elementary school alone – welp, that changed for me! I just remember it being a big deal to y’all so was curious! love your hair change, beautiful! And I remember the old days of following y’all. So many trips but never a beach involved, until y’all started to beach and ‘sand’! lol I too have stopped running. Ran for 22 years and I just don’t enjoy it anymore. Maybe I will again someday? Black coffee is goals! Not that I add much to mine at all, but still goals!
Mix and Match Mama says
I don’t know that it changed, but we are always trying to do what’s best for each kid as individuals. Kensington was 14, Smith was 12 (almost 13…it was Christmas right before his birthday in January), and Ashby got a phone for her 13th birthday. So, they were all about the same ages. My guess is Mades will also be about that age too.
Deb says
Love this post! A few things I have changed my mind about over the past few years::
Doing the things I want to do now. I have had a few close friends die or have major health problems at youngish ages It brought home to me to how unpredictable life can be and I need plan/do those things in the near term.
Saying yes more. you inspired me on this one. It actually feels great/fun to say yes more often.
Letting others know what they mean to me now. It makes us both feel good.
Lauren M. says
I love this post! As a longtime blog reader, I love seeing how some of these changes have evolved for you over the years. Change can be SO hard but also SO good! I always find it interesting when people attack someone for something they said years ago, because like you said, we should all strive to grow, mature, and gain more wisdom.
Leslie Ruggiero says
I love this post and can relate to so many of them! This year alone after being a “cardio junkie” I have almost completely switched to weight training and low impact cardio and love it! And I gave up creamer in my coffee after reading my things about them and now I’m strictly a black coffee girl!
Kelly W Brannan says
Love this post, it’s given me a (mostly) fun topic to think about it. Off the top of my head, one thing I’ve changed my mind about is coffee. I started out hating coffee, then trained myself to like it – heavily sweetened/creamed – in my mid 20’s…and now in my late 40’s, I still don’t drink it black, but I removed all sugar/flavored creamers from it 3 years ago, and now could never go back. Half and half only. And another we change in common is the super blonde hair color. For basically all of my adult life, I got heavy blonde highlights, but over the past few years, started by adding low lights, then cutting back on the highlights, and now am trying to embrace the darker natural blonde shade. Only issue is seeing some grays coming in, and I’m not quite ready to embrace that yet. But loving the darker blonde (on you as well), as well as spending less time in the hair salon.
Tabitha Coker says
What a thought provoking post. We all change. And it’s wild that I’ve been following for 18 years and witnessing the changes but not really noticing it until you pointed out. Very cool that you have this archive of you were and who you are. Thanks for sharing!
Melissa says
I love this post. As someone who has experienced a lot of change and difficult times in life, I think the biggest thing is learning to accept things as they are and not try to control them.
Jennifer P says
Tears, tears and more tears. I absolutely struggle with change. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE changing out a carpet in the house, the colors/shades I use for the bedsheets. I even use an online clothing stylist to evolve my clothing style. But man, the Lord has spent SO MANY YEARS working on my heart in this area of change. I was a single adult, without children up until 4 years ago. Then bam, after almost 20 years of just ME, I fell in love with an incredible man who brought two daughters into my life. Man have I changed my mind SO MANY TIMES in the last 4 years! From “no, my vacations are able ME and what I want to do” to “I wonder if the girls would enjoy this”? From “I MUST have a color coordinated closet” to “my husband needs some space in here, too”. I have come to realize (still maturing in my forties 🙂 ) that changing your mind is okay. Adjusting, going with the flow, reframing the way I see things. It’s a constant prayer of mine, still being a working in progress. But wow, the things I would have missed out on if I didn’t change my mind. Thank you for this post!
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh my word, this is such a great comment. Thank YOU for sharing your story with all of us. xx
Sarah says
Jennifer, I also totallly enjoyed this story! Your heart didn’t just change; it expanded! may God bless your mothering journey!! Those girls are lucky to have you!
Bren says
Jennifer, I so enjoyed reading your post! So happy for you!
Katie says
Loved this post SO much! I think it’s so powerful to accept and embrace that things can change as we learn and grow. Thanks for sharing!
MIRANDA BODENHAMER says
I was a perfect MOM…until I became one! LOL, if that isn’t the truth right there.
Alyssa Norman says
Ok serious question regarding sand…. I literally LOLd when I read that part. Because a few weeks ago you posted about grilling on the beach and my only thought was “BUT WHAT ABOUT ALL THE SAND”!? I don’t live near the beach, but the last time we vacationed and “picked up breakfast” to take to the beach I regretted every minute because I felt like I was just eating sand the whole time. So….. HOW do you eat on the beach? Is it the age of your kids ( mine are little so grubby hands get sandy Instantly)?, is the sand different on Nantucket then say the gulf side of Florida? Or are you just OK with a few sand crunchies in your burger? 😂Please tell me your secret!!
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh gosh, I think having kids at the beach as teenagers and having kids at the beach as small kids is a TOTALLY different experience. Eating at the beach with little kids is maddening…eating with teens is easy. I have never thought about us eating sand though. We eat lunch at the beach most days…I don’t know? It’s breezy here, so I can’t say that the wind isn’t blowing. It just never seems to blow in my food (at least not enough for me to notice). Now, I’m going to think about it constantly though 😉 .
StephC says
I’ve always thought that the 0-5 age kids and teen parenting was the hardest, but parenting young adults has been very tough. What helps me get through is the Lord and my dad’s advice – “each stage is just a phase”. It won’t last forever. My older adult children are doing well. I just need to rest in that – they’ll all get there eventually …
Lizzie says
Long time follower. Love today’s post and the “later” poem. One of things I’ve changed my mind about is guacamole. I love it now! Not crazy about sliced avocados, but I do love me some guac. My parents have both died in the past 8 months. Even though they were in their 80s, it still makes me aware that time is precious and to live life to the fullest–or as full as possible. Which they did not. Don’t wait to make changes, even if it’s a small change. You can always change it again, if it isn’t the right change the first time.
Susan Schroder says
You never know what curves life will throw at you and if it does changes will naturally occur. I was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer 2 years ago and there have been many changes in my life since then. Food I eat, the way I exercise, where I live, who I’m friends with, where I travel to next…things you may have never considered in the past. This post just confirms this. Thank you for a great topic to reflect on.
Lindsey says
Favorite post! (And I was wondering about your hair…I’m letting my light blonde look go, too. Just easier and cheaper! What’s your reasoning?) As a pastors wife, now Navy chaplain’s wife, and moving around a lot, change – and changed minds – is the name of the game. But this post has me thinking on a deeper level and I love that. Thank you! One thing for me – I blogged for 10 years (lindseybuckdesign.com) and haven’t touched it now in 6, yet continue to pay that website hosting fee every month. It’s like I can’t make that decision: am I a blogger or not? I also have a Masters in Interior Design (which has been a difficult business to get into moving around so much). So, am I an interior designer or not? My mind changes frequently on that one. Thanks again Shay!
Mix and Match Mama says
Gosh, I don’t know that I have one reason because I didn’t have an “aha” moment. It just got a little “rooty” and I liked it, and I kept going…and this feels more like “me” 🙂 . Thank YOU for sharing your journey with us today too!
Lindsey Buck says
Well it looks great!
Lindsey says
I LOVE this post! So fun to think about :).
Christa Liso says
This was such a fun post! I can’t say that I have ever thought about all the things I have changed my mind about, but I just might after reading this. I love the idea of seeing where the Lord has led/protected/grown me. What a blessing!
Karen says
This may be my favorite post ever of yours, it really hits home. Recognizing that not only is it okay to change our minds, in fact that as we evolve through our experiences and the changing world around us it is essential to adapt in small and “big” ways. I take a leap from our daily lives, goals and desires to the political world and remind myself that it’s vital to have the ability to let our opinions change and not stubbornly stick to dogma may not work and see that we can all change our minds, and hearing and respecting each others viewpoints may help in working towards ending the polarization our country is stuck in.
Sarah says
I love the idea of changing our minds being a form of adaptation. And agree 100 percent that we need to all be more open to it within our nation. Thank you.
Amy T says
Great perspective, making me think of the ways I’ve changed over the years.
Sheila C says
I love this post. How absolutely freeing!
Susan Jeffries says
I love the concept that change is good. I struggle with change. But over the past few years we have lost many family members, either to death or loss of contact. My husband and I have worked in health care for more than 22 years. We are self employed and finding ourselves exhausted. I pray about being open to what God has planned for us next. My biggest change is that I never thought I wanted a dog, but now our labs are my extra kids. Family for sure. Here’s to happy changes!
Sandy M says
One thing you might consider regarding your “forever” home or not is your kids down the road especially if they move away. I’m older than you with adult children. Having a place big enough for your kids to come home is irreplaceable. Things change a lot when your parents die and there is no longer a place for the family to gather. I guess if everyone has money to travel and rent places, it might still work but there’s nothing like coming home. The connection to past memories and a place of belonging and connection is priceless. You haven’t lost your parents yet so you don’t yet realize what it is like to lose the family home. It makes it much harder for siblings and their families to get together without their parents’ home and it will be fun for them to bring their children to the home they grew up in. Just my thoughts as I no longer have my parents’ home or in-laws home to go back to and it is such a joy to have my children bring their children to this house where we raised them for most of their years. I know someday we will probably have to downsize but not now.
leslie Maxey says
I dont know if I can ever “chill” about sand. lol I mean, it’s SAND! hahaha
Lizzie says
Add glitter to that, too. My girls were in competitive cheerleading growing up….there was SO MUCH GLITTER! Ugh!
Mix and Match Mama says
I’m not sure I’ll ever change my mind about glitter 😉
Leslie S says
Loving your words on parenting. So true! I thought I would be the mom who had her house decorated perfectly for every holiday. Turns out, that is not me. It’s just one more thing to do so I don’t do it and that’s okay! Also, I am loving the way you have adjusted your kids’ schooling. I am a public school girl, public school teacher, but I am starting to wonder if that’s the best fit for my second kiddo. Hoping he is open to exploring options!
Jacqui says
LOVED this post. I so badly need to “chill” (like sand) about some things in life, this was an excellent reminder.
I’m a big fan of the phrase “strong opinions, loosely held.” I love that I can be passionate about something, because that is part of my personality, but that I am confident and secure enough to admit when I was wrong after learning new facts, or simply change my opinion after trying new things.
Molly says
I love your honesty, if you sell your house i will buy it :). haha! i’d totally live there forever, seriously!
Karah Stracener says
I love this past. I was also the best parent/ mom until I had kids. I did things or let my kids do things I used to say I would never do. Age, experience, and wisdom are such a blessing. Parenting is so hard but so fulfilling. I also try to live in the present and enjoy each and every day with my family. Time is a thief.
Mary says
I love this post! As a long time reader I remember you talking about how you would never wear black. Made me laugh 😂
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh the things I say and live to regret… 😉
Eliza says
So good! I loved this post. The runner status & forever home have changed for me as well…
Yvonne says
This is great! I love your reflections! I always think I wish I knew at 25 some of the things that I thought were important really didn’t matter! Also I never thought I would have an “online” friend, but because of your welcoming and warm personality I feel included in this little corner of the internet, you are really supportive on your blog and it shines thru brightly, THANK YOU!
kristen says
I LOVE this post! I’m with you about spring – it had always been my least favorite season until covid. That 2020 spring changed my opinion on the season and I see it so differently now! Here’s to growth and change – in the big things as well as the little ones!
Marisa says
So much to think about now HA! Coffee black?! Sushi and raw fish?! Sand everywhere?! I do love McKinney and thought it would be our forever home too but have recently been saying that we are going to be making a move once the kids are all gone.
Lorraine says
I have some similar items…like running and now lifting weights. I used to think if I wasn’t killing myself, it wouldn’t count. Now I love lifting weights and my body responds even better than my running days.
Kids staying up late! I was crazy strict about my kids going to bed on time. Now I love lingering with my children. (Nothing crazy here, we are talking 9/9:30pm).
Being a stay at home mom. God has given me freedom there and it has been such a gift!! I am now the women’s minister at my church and am so thankful that I get to do that and be a mom too.
My time with the Lord looks so different!! I am experiencing such a freedom in just sitting in God’s presence without a list of stuff to do. It’s freeing and I continue to see God meet me in such personal and kind ways. I still wake up and set time aside first thing in the morning. And the length is the same. But some mornings I just sit with God. Others, I pray through the psalms. Others, I meditate on a book of the Bible. I still do a Bible study, but find I am enjoying doing it more outside of my “quiet time.”
I am noticing my book tastes are also changing. I’m enjoying page turners less and longing to read more books of substance where the writing is a little richer and the pace is a little slower.
I have gray hair!!! And I don’t care. I dyed it for awhile. But then got sick of it. So I’m just embracing the gray. And I don’t mind one bit!
I also just really love getting older and the freedom to be yourself and uncovering what truly brings my joy based on how God has wired me!!
This is one of my favorite blog posts that you’ve done, Shay!! I can’t wait to ask my friends this question and dive in.
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank YOU for sharing your changes, Lorraine! Goodness, thank you! I am blessed by you being a part of this community. xx
K.K. says
A very favorite post!!! Thank goodness for change.
I used to dislike avocado?!?! How dare I?! It’s delicious. Ha
Mix and Match Mama says
How dare you is right?! 😉
Kristin Lyngaas says
Shay I’m 57 and I can’t tell you how many times I’ve said “Never”. Good thing God gave us brains to change our minds! 🙏🩷🥰 Hope you have a fabulous night in Nantucket!
Jeanette says
The last quote was perfection. Absolutely appreciated all the reflection and changes you have gone through, and obviously more to come 😉.
Kelly Bonner says
The one that comes to mind right now is changing my mind about Mexican food lol! Growing up & into my early 20’s Mexican food was a no thank you & hello I’m a born & bread Texan! 🤦🏻♀️ Thankfully I changed my mind!
Also I’ve followed your blog since K was in Pre-K & I had honestly forgotten about your blonde days. Your hair color now is beautiful! 💕
Mix and Match Mama says
Awwww! Kelly, thank YOU for being here as long as you have. I am still trying to wrap my brain around a Texan not enjoying Mexican food at any point in their life 😉 .
Laura says
I think this was maybe my suggestion for a topic last year?! I was so excited to see it come up! If not, it’s still so fun! Thanks for sharing all yours. My list would be:
-schooling and parenting, just like you said
-pickles!
-organic food, food dyes, USDA/FDA
-politics (I’m not fully one party or another now)
-bagpipes! I used to think they were so weird until Outlander and now I think they’re fun haha
Love the concept of, what else will I have changed my mind about in 10-20-50 years?
Susan Fitzpatrick says
Love this topic! I swore I would never eat sushi and now it’s the one thing I crave! Also said I would never wear Birkenstocks but they are some of my favorite shoes.
A M R says
As a long time reader, thank you for sharing what’s on your heart in this post. It is one of my favorites to date.
Megan Barker says
This was such a fun post to read. I started reading your blog when I was 19 and in college, and now I’m turning 35 next month. I loved seeing the things you’ve reflected on here and how change can be such a positive thing.
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh my goodness, YOU have certainly changed a lot too over the years. Thank you, thank you, thank YOU for taking me along with you on your journey. xx
Catie H says
Fun read- thinking through things shows we are able to grow
Emi says
At quick glance I thought the first Hair picture was your mom! I see so much of her in that pic 💕
Angela Banae says
Shay! I LOVE this post!!! Thank you so much for opening up your heart (as you always do!) and sharing these things with us.
Reflection is so powerful and helps us become a better version of ourselves. Thank you for nudging me that I need to do some more reflection. I want to make sure that I am embracing the changes that God brings into my life. I love how He is so patient with us because sometimes change is hard for me… But I know His ways are best. Thank you for reminding me to embrace change!❤️
AliJ. says
I LOVE this post! I am about to be 55 and when I look back and think about how I have changed my mind or opinion on things, I am so glad that I did. Life is all about change and learning to be your best self and best life. Your comment about education really resonated with me! My husband and I love our public school system, it is small but good. But it was not for our daughter when it came to high school. She needed something more challenging for her education, and we needed to include her desires of what she saw for her future. If you had told me that meant sending her to boarding school, I would have said no way, I am not sending my only baby away! Yet, here we are, she’s entering her senior year, and it was the best fit for her. Sometimes it is not what we want but what God knows we need.
Kelsey Willis says
What about cruises?! I was so certain when I saw the title of your post that cruises would for sure be on your list :). Loved reading this!
Kelly F says
Home is where you are making the memories. When our last one was off to college we downsized and love it! Less to clean and honestly it made me a little sad walking by all the empty bedrooms. Time for a new family to enjoy it! We look back with great memories and say it was a great home for that season of our life!
Amy Grace Duncan says
I really love this post! The older I get, the more permission I give myself to change my mind, and the more I realize that a lot of things in life are grey area instead of black and white. ❤️
Yolanda McLean says
I really enjoyed this post and the comments are gold! I can think of a few areas that I’ve changed my mind, and thank God that we don’t just plant and refuse to budge. Lots to reflect on!
Lynn says
What a fun post to reflect on! I remember the Disney Cruise comment too lol. I would like to predict that in the future, you and Andrew will change your stance on whole grains (specifically freshly-milled flour) and fruits 😉 You should listen to Dr. Ben Edwards’ podcast called “You’re the Cure”
Gigi says
I loved this post about change. It really made me think – in a good way.
Cris says
This was a great post! I love food for thought. May I recommend a book that I’m not finished with yet, but that I’m loving? It’s “The Power of Regret” by Daniel Pink. SO much food for thought!
Amanda says
This was a great post and I truly enjoyed reading all of the comments. I chuckled when I read one comment about Birkenstocks. I, too, never thought I’d wear Birks. My mother wore them and I thought they were hideous (and honestly, they kind of are!), but I love mine and they’re super comfortable!
I changed my mind about coffee one day about eight years ago. I always used to add sweetener (Splenda preferably or sugar) but I gave the sweetener up cold turkey and it wasn’t even that hard! I just take my coffee with a splash of milk – I use 2% at home but I’ll take whatever you have on hand (skim, whole, oat, almond….not even picky).
I enjoy routines but I LOVE change and the excitement of growth and something new!