Getting to: I "DO"

Photography: Stephanie Fong Photography I San Diego, California

To share, or not to share? I've chosen to share!

So this is the first blog that needs to set the tone for the rest of my "Getting to: I DO" stories right? Hashtag.. #NOPRESSURE !! There is a lot of pressure actually; but I'll take on the challenge! This is me, my story and I.. and I thank you for joining me on my crazy adventures and for your support along the way.  This is the backstory we'll get out of the way on this first entry and leave all the adventures for the blog posts to come!

WOW, what a journey it has been thus far. Ups and downs, explorations here and there and discoveries that will last a lifetime..  a rollercoaster in which I am grateful for. The lessons i've learned, the laughter i've shared, and the love I lived were all well-worth it. I don't regret a thing (well, maybe a few.. but its all part of experiencing life right?) 

Have you held a secret from the most important people in your life? I have. I surrender and am guilty as charged. In 2014, I was captive to my own romantic fairytale story (once again) ..confined within 4 walls of my apartment. My closest friends were invited to my secluded-paradise, but not my family.. they were kept far far away assuming I was protecting their feelings and reputation. I was so fearful; I was scared that I was letting my family down as I decided to date outside of my faith (once again). I knew something had to change; I needed to upgrade my fearful thoughts and create new opportunities with the decisions I chose to take. I didn't know how to own my actions and face reality; the reality of what I was living and the choices I was making.  2014 was a year that shifted my world and for others around me. It was the year that I created an opportunity for myself and for others. My intention was never to hurt anyone or let anyone down; I publicly apologize if I did so.  Every connection I have made in my life has been of great value and I am lucky to have had the honor for the moments we shared. Everything happens for a reason and I truly believe that everyone who enters our life; is here on purpose. 

You may ask how I changed my ways or what I did in order to face my fear? I did something where my brother Yigal has been inviting me to experience for months and I pushed away his invitation because I felt I wasn't "ready". I'm not sure what I wasn't "ready" for but all I knew at that point was.. that I wasn't "ready" for the transformation everyone including he, was talking about. He was sharing the incredible effect the Landmark Forum had on his life and the positive shift it made for him. A few months later... I was ready! I was ready to dive right in without any expectations and just give myself the opportunity to try something new, explore and enjoy the experience. I took the Landmark Forum and loved every second of this powerful weekend! I explored with an open mind, an open heart and gained a multitude of discoveries that shifted my world!! I loved it so much, I joined the Advanced Course. 

A week later I invited my mom for a glass of wine to my Cortez Hill apartment; to share, to be authentic and to open up about what I was going through in my own little world.  We sat on my comfy grey couch side by side, both holding our red mixed berry wine and together took a deep breath.. I turned to her (while my heart beating rapidly) to share the story she didn't know about.  Before the first words intended to leave my mouth were delivered to her ears and heart; tears stubbled down my face. At this point, I felt my moms energy as she automatically left all guards down and was ready to listen without judgement.  It might sound exaggerated to you; but my soul sensed and was internally screaming 'HAZARD AHEAD' and WARNINGS ran through my body and mind... but I still went ahead as she deserved to know everything. 

Fast forward to today; I am here because of the endless support of my family, friends & community. They trust me for making decisions that are true to my heart and my life while integrating a wonderful human being to our circle. I feel free and as happy as can be at this stage of my life; grateful for living a healthy, lively and authentic life.  I am able to share this blog with you today openly, thanks to my desire for breaking my 'pattern' and giving my current relationship a public chance.  I am infinitely lucky to have been introduced to and get to spend my life with such a special neshama (soul), and thats my incredible fiancé Tommaso! The closer I brought him to my world, the more everything seamlessly aligned. We have not lost, but gained a tribe member who deserves every right to be amongst this community.. carrying  our traditions for generations to come.  Our own expectations can limit us and confine us into this 'box' we created. This solidarity doesn't allow for an open mind nor an open heart. Yes, there are desires and dreams we want to follow... follow what feels right to you, don't hide and enjoy the moments getting yourself closer to: "I DO". 

My plan was to be married 5 years ago with at least two kids by now;  while we plan.. the mister above laughs. So stop trying to plan every little thing.. and instead, enjoy every little thing as it comes. 

How to get to: "I DO"? My suggestion to you is the following..

Be authentic, live your life, share your experiences, have fun, be brave, take risks, be patient, collect memories, live with less expectations, go on crazy adventures, live with less pressure on yourself, make mistakes, have an open mind & heart, be loyal to your gut, don't settle.. yet, no need to be so picky (there is no perfect man, we aren't perfect women)! 

Hope you enjoyed this read! I had a good time opening my heart and writing it out while listening to Enya & Stings album. I look forward to getting to: "I DO" with you!! Thanks for joining me doll.

Ciao Bella!
​ Love, Dais

#gettingtoido
​#LoveDais