if all is vanity, then why create a vanity table?

Back to some semi-serious stuff here. But bear with me.

A few posts back, I wrote about how the things of this world don't matter and will all pass away, but what we do for the glory of God and His kingdom are eternal. Then I went and posted on Insta a picture of the vanity area Jake built me. So why the contradiction between my words and my actions? Well, I don't think it's a contradiction exactly. Let me explain.

I've shared a bit about my struggle to maintain good mental health. To be honest, the late winter and early spring of this year were actually pretty dark for me. I was physically sick all the time, which made me not want to go places out of fear, which led to more sickness because of that anxiety. I finally went to see someone, and am on some awesome meds at the moment. But once the medicines got into my system, and I could see a light at the end of the tunnel, I realized that I could put on some big girl panties and help my own self out a little.

So I scheduled a hair appointment (my first professional one in like a super long time) - cut AND color! And eyebrow wax! I started getting my nails done again. And I asked a friend who always looks amazing to teach me how to put on makeup like a grownup (as opposed to my previous middle school-level knowledge).

It's important to note - and I'm asking for your help in keeping me accountable! - that I, nor anyone else, can never ever let outward beauty define us. Not that I think I'm beautiful, but the pursuit of outward beauty can never be my end goal. However, I'm sure almost everyone in my life can tell a huge difference in my moods now.

I also don't ever want to rely solely on medicine for healing. My first step is always to go to the ultimate Physician. He may (as in this case) remind me that He created doctors and their brains for a purpose, and that it's perfectly ok for me to go to those specialists and receive their help. And He may also prompt me (as in this case) to put in a little effort. I have a husband I want to honor; I have a son who is watching me to learn how a godly woman, wife, and mother handles and carries herself; and I serve a God Whom I represent to the world.

So basically, I started spending a little time on my appearance because it helps me feel like a woman, like I'm worth it, because I am. And so are you.