Fly Your Freak Flag Friday!!

 "I like parties, but I'm shy, and I often find myself standing around, feeling awkward." 

-Michael Bergin

Well, my friends, Friday is upon us! I have almost made it through the week and I couldn't be happier! My weekend will be filled with friends and relaxation... how about yours?? Speaking of weekends, a few people inquired about mine last weekend in Cincinnati, so I figured I'd share a few photos before digging in...

First, there was the baby shower:

Then came family time and our date night:

Some fun photos were taken, yes, but when asked if I had a good time?? Not so sure what to say... yes and no??

Let me break it down for you: There is something you should all know about me. It's a huge part of who I am and I feel like everyone should be made well-aware. Awhile back I did a post on embracing your quirks and loving your flaws, while openly admitting to them... "Fly Your Freak Flag", I called it. Time for another:

I may or may not be incredibly awkward. 

Even just writing the word feels like I'm writing my own name. I tend to have social anxiety, which causes me to seem like a bit stand-offish at times. But the odd part is, I love making new friends- love it! And blogging has made that easier... getting to know someone through their words, thoughts, ideas in an online forum makes speaking to them that much simpler. But throw me into a party scene or a "meet and greet" setting and forget about it. I mentioned before how the last time I went to Cincinnati was the first time I met Scott's family; that is, all of them at once, 700 miles from home, coming in as the newest soon-to-be family member of their beloved nephew, grandson, and cousin. Obviously, that is stressful and cause to be awkward. But I swore this time would be different; this time would be better. It wasn't. Despite all the laughter, games, and good food, I just couldn't make myself act naturally.

Some people only went through awkward phases. I envy them, because phases come and go. But I am coming to a place in my life where I truly do just accept it for what it is: a part of me that makes me who I am. It's something that Scott and I laugh and joke about now and doesn't hold me back any longer. I used to turn down invitations if I knew I would be uncomfortable, but then I realized I was missing out on memories, photo ops, and chances for new friends. I still do feel out of place a lot, and lack the right things to say, but I'm working on getting past that and instead letting myself try and focus on the fun I'm having, not how I must seem to others. I'm mastering the art of small talk and even improving my ability to start a conversation. I'm not a very shy person by nature, so I want to stop conveying that to people by withdrawing.

This past weekend may have been a step backward, but at the same time, I'm proud of myself for giving it another go after last year's fiasco. So today, I'm officially announcing that I'm awkward and proud of it. Give me a chance and stick with me and I promise I'll make a good friend, though. So that's my not-so-inner freakdom today; how about you?? What is your freak flag flying by today?? Hoping you all have fantastic weekends and remember to give yourself something to love about you on this day!

**On another note, I just hit 25 followers, so next week, my giveaway contest will begin... check back in soon for details and, again, thank you, new followers!!**

Love,