You Don’t Need Paris to Feel Alive

A couple of weeks ago, we went to the final high school basketball home game of the season. My mom came with us.

She had so much fun.

The energy. The music. The cheering. The sense of community. When it was over, she was genuinely sad it was the last home game. That moment stuck with me.

I know my mother enjoys getting out of the house. She loves experiences. She loves fresh air. She loves being around people and feeling alive in the moment.

photo of three laughing woman sitting on white couch

So I decided to look up local events.

Nothing extravagant. Nothing dramatic. Just simple things happening around town. I found several events — some free, some very inexpensive — and suddenly I realized something:

You don’t have to travel across the world to feel like you’re living. MENTAL HEALTH AND SELF CARE IS FREE

Spring Is an Invitation to Think Outside the Box

When spring approaches, we naturally feel a shift. The air softens. The days stretch longer. We want to open windows, clean closets, and start fresh.

But what if we also refreshed how we define “living life”?

Somewhere along the way, social media convinced us that joy has to be expensive.

That it has to look like:

A 10-day trip to Paris
Luxury brunches every weekend
Constant flights and photo ops
Big, flashy experiences

But that’s not the only way to feel alive.

Sometimes it looks like:

A local basketball game
A community festival
A park concert
A farmers market
A walk downtown
Trying a new coffee shop
Sitting outside talking for hours

Joy doesn’t have to leave the country.
It just has to leave the house sometimes.

Self-Care Isn’t Always Solitary

What I realized planning these small outings with my mom is that several self-care pillars were wrapped into one simple decision:

Fresh air
Movement
Family time
New experiences
Mental stimulation
Laughter

All from looking up what was happening locally.

It cost very little, but it gave so much.

We underestimate what’s available to us because we’re conditioned to think bigger is better.

But sometimes smaller is more intentional.
More connected.
More meaningful.

Use What You Have

Spring is the perfect time to use what you already have.

Use your car to explore nearby towns.
Use your free time to try something different.
Use your relationships to build memories.
Use your curiosity.

You don’t need a passport to feel present.
You don’t need luxury to feel fulfilled.
You don’t need to spend beyond your means to create joy.

Living life doesn’t require extravagance.
It requires engagement.

A Gentle Reminder

Before you tell yourself, “I need a big trip,” ask:

Have I fully explored what’s around me?
Have I taken advantage of free local events?
Have I created simple moments with the people I love?

Spring is not just about cleaning out closets.
It’s about stepping into the light again.

Think outside the box.
Try something new.
Invite someone along.
Laugh loudly.

You don’t need Paris or Disney to feel alive.

Sometimes all you need is a basketball game, a little planning, and the willingness to say yes 🤍

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

10 Truths to Remember—No Matter Where You Are in Life

Life is a journey—and some days we’re thriving, while others we’re just trying to make it through.
Whether you’re in a season of transition, uncertainty, or rebuilding, I want to offer you a few gentle reminders. Think of this as a little food for thought to nourish your mindset and keep you going:

1. You can’t care about everything.

Your peace is sacred. Protect your energy by learning to let go of what doesn’t deserve space in your mind or heart.

2. No matter what, someone will always have something negative to say. Live your life anyway.

You can’t live for the approval of others. People will judge you whether you do everything “right” or not—so you might as well do what makes you happy.

3. You are the only one responsible for your happiness.

It’s not your partner’s, parent’s, or friend’s job to make you happy. It’s yours. Build a life you love—on your terms.

4. If something doesn’t work out, don’t give up. Try again and again.

Failure isn’t the end—it’s feedback. Reset, rethink, and show up again. Your consistency is your power.

5. Everyone will not be happy for you.

And that’s okay. Keep shining anyway. Real supporters won’t feel threatened by your growth.

6. Your growth will inspire some—and intimidate others.

Don’t shrink to fit into someone else’s comfort zone. The right people will clap for your success .

7. Pay attention to people’s actions—not just their words.

Talk is cheap. If their actions don’t match their promises, believe what they do—not what they say.

8. Nothing changes if nothing changes.

Waiting won’t create progress. It’s time to make a move—even if it’s a small one.

9. Courage is being yourself every day in a world that tells you to be someone else.

You don’t need to fit in when you were made to stand out. Authenticity is your superpower.

10. Becoming less reactive is a sign of major growth.

Letting everything get to you? That drains you. Learning to pause, breathe, and respond instead of react is healing in motion.

Wherever you are right now, remind yourself—you’re still growing, still learning, and still showing up. That matters more than perfection. Hello February: A Fresh Reminder to Focus on What Truly Matters

✨ Journal Prompts For Reflection :

Which one of these reminders do you need to lean into most right now?
How can you practice more emotional boundaries this week?

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

Perimenopause: The Frenemy Who Thinks Sleep Is Overrated

Ladies, can we talk about our lovely friend Peri? You know, the one who likes to show up unannounced, uninvited, and full of surprises. Lately, Peri has been on a mission to convince me that I don’t need sleep. Apparently, she’s decided I’m fine running on broken sleep—the kind that comes in small crumbs, like the ones left at the bottom of a bag of chips. Spoiler alert: it’s NOT fine.

I’ve done everything I’m “supposed” to do. Logging off screens early? Check. Getting my workout done in the morning to burn off energy? Double-check. A warm bath or shower to relax? Yep, nailed that too. And let’s not forget my nightly cup of sleepy-time tea, which I drink religiously, hoping it will charm Peri into giving me just one peaceful night. But nope.

Peri has decided she’s my personal trainer of chaos, poking at me with her endless symptoms and ensuring that my sleep is served in tiny, unsatisfying fragments. Oh, I’ll get to sleep… but she’s there to make sure I wake up at 2:47 AM, staring at the ceiling and contemplating life’s mysteries, like why I can’t remember where I put my car keys. Navigating Perimenopause with Humor

The Joys (or Lack Thereof) of Perimenopause

Let’s be honest: Perimenopause is like that one frenemy who “accidentally” insults you while claiming to have your best interests at heart. She comes with:

Hot flashes at the most inconvenient times.
Mood swings that could rival a rollercoaster.
And, of course, her latest trick—broken sleep patterns that would make a toddler jealous.

But here’s the thing: I refuse to let Peri win. Sure, she might have me yawning in meetings or Googling “Can coffee cure all symptoms of perimenopause?” at 3 AM, but she won’t break me.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that you have to laugh about it. Seriously, laughter might be the best sleep substitute. It’s either laugh or cry—and I’m saving the crying for when I find a new weird symptom Peri decides to surprise me with next month.

So, what can we do when Peri plays her games? We fight back, of course! With humor, grace, and maybe a few extra cups of coffee. Oh, and naps. Naps are my new best friend, even if they come with a side of guilt for “wasting time.” Spoiler alert: naps are NEVER a waste of time.

Ladies, We’ve Got This

If you’re in the trenches of Perimenopause too, let this post remind you: you’re not alone. Peri may be relentless, but so are we. So, cheers to all of us still showing up, even when sleep feels like a distant memory. May we conquer the chaos, laugh through the madness, and keep reminding ourselves that this too shall pass… eventually.

Until then, I’ll be here with my sleepy-time tea, hoping tonight is the night Peri decides to be kind.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

#PerimenopauseChronicles
#WhereDidMySleepGo
#LaughterIsTheBestMedicine

Back to School: The Unofficial End of Summer and a Refresh for Fall

There’s something about the back-to-school season that feels like a reset—a subtle but undeniable signal that summer is winding down, and fall is just around the corner. Even though we technically still have a month or so of summer left, the return to school fast-tracks our excitement for sweater weather, football season, and everything fall yall.

As soon as the school buses start rolling and the backpacks come out, it’s like a switch flips. Families have wrapped up their vacations, the lazy days of summer give way to structured schedules, and suddenly, it’s all about fall. Stores don’t waste any time either—they’re already stocked with pumpkin spice everything, cozy blankets, and Halloween decorations. It’s hard not to get caught up in the excitement and start dreaming about crisp air, pumpkin pie lattes, sweaters, boots, and weekend football games.

Back-to-school season is more than just a change in the calendar; it’s a full-on reset. Schedules and routines that took a backseat during the summer months suddenly snap back into focus. Early mornings, homework, packed lunches, and after-school activities all make their return, bringing with them a sense of order and structure that many of us secretly crave after the freedom of summer. Or some may not. For me it’s the endless time spent in the car driving to and from school as well as activities.

For parents and students alike, this time of year feels like a fresh start. It’s a chance to set new goals, get organized, and approach the coming months with renewed energy. Sports practices, clubs, and other extracurricular activities kick into high gear, adding more to the calendar but also creating opportunities for growth and connection.

Of course, while we’re busy getting into the back-to-school groove, it’s hard to ignore the siren call of fall. Stores have already presented us with everything we need to start decorating for the season, and for some of us, it takes a bit of willpower not to dive in headfirst. There’s something about fall that just feels comforting, and once the school year begins, it’s like we’re given permission to start indulging in all the seasonal fun—even if it’s still technically summer.

Who else feels like back-to-school season is a restart or refresh? It’s a time to transition from the relaxed pace of summer to the more structured, goal-oriented mindset of the school year. Whether you’re a student, a parent, or just someone who loves the shift in seasons, back-to-school time offers a chance to refocus, reorganize, and set the tone for the rest of the year. I NEED TO RESET MY EXPECTATIONS

It’s a reminder that change is good, that each season brings its own joys and challenges, and that we can approach this time with excitement rather than dread. So, as we sharpen our pencils and pack those lunchboxes, let’s embrace this reset and look forward to the adventures that fall will bring.

Back-to-school season may mark the unofficial end of summer, but it’s also a time for new beginnings. It’s a chance to reset, refresh, and get excited for what’s to come. Whether you’re ready to break out the fall decor or just trying to savor the last weeks of summer, this time of year offers a unique blend of nostalgia and anticipation.

So, who else feels the shift? Who else is ready for the reset that back-to-school season brings?

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

5 Things I’d Like to Do More Of: Embracing Positivity and Growth

It’s so easy to get caught up in the cycle of focusing on what we don’t like, what we don’t want, and what we feel we lack. But what if we shifted our mindset? What if we started thinking more about the things we want to do more of, the things that bring us joy and have a positive impact on our lives? This shift in language and focus can open the door to greater happiness, growth, and fulfillment. Here are a few things I’d like to do more of that I believe will enrich my life and well-being.

1. Read More

One of the first things I’d like to do more of is reading. We all know the benefits of reading—expanding our knowledge, improving our vocabulary, and keeping our minds sharp as we age. Reading also provides a great escape from the daily grind, allowing us to immerse ourselves in different worlds, perspectives, and ideas. As life gets busier, it’s easy to let reading fall by the wayside, but I’m determined to make it a bigger part of my routine. Whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, or even articles and blogs, I want to read more and make time for this self care activity.

2. Improve My Posture

Sitting at a desk all day can take a toll on our posture, and I’ve noticed that I’m not immune to this. Poor posture can lead to a host of issues, from back pain to decreased energy levels. That’s why I’d like to focus more on improving my posture. This means being mindful of how I sit, stand, and move throughout the day. Not only will this help me physically, but it will also contribute to better overall health and well-being. Small adjustments can make a big difference, and I’m committed to making posture improvement a priority.

3. Practice More Yoga and Pilates

Yoga and Pilates are activities I’d like to incorporate more into my routine. These practices are fantastic for stretching muscles, maintaining muscle memory, improving strength, and enhancing flexibility. They’re also great for mental clarity and stress relief. As I get older, I realize the importance of staying active and taking care of my body. By doing more yoga and Pilates, I hope to improve my overall well-being and keep my body strong and healthy. Don’t Wait Until the Weekend to Have Fun: Embrace Joy Every Day

4. Create More Memories and Experiences with Loved Ones

As I get older, I’ve found that experiences and memories with family and friends become far more valuable than material things. I want to focus more on creating those moments—whether it’s through simple get-togethers, travel, or new adventures. These are the memories that last a lifetime, and they’re what truly bring joy to our lives. I’d like to do more of this—more connection, more laughter, more shared experiences.

5. Stay Consistent with My Blog and Self-Care

Lastly, I want to stay consistent with my blog. Writing and sharing my thoughts are important to me, and I’d like to make sure I’m dedicating time to this creative outlet. This includes everything from exercising and eating well to setting aside time for relaxation and reflection. Consistency in these areas will help me maintain peace and balance in my life, ensuring that I’m not just working hard, but also taking the time to enjoy life and take care of what truly matters.

Focusing on the things we want to do more of, rather than what we lack or dislike, can have a positive effect on our lives. By committing to reading more, improving posture, practicing yoga and Pilates, creating meaningful experiences, and staying consistent with my blog and self-care, I’m taking steps toward a more fulfilling and balanced life.

What about you? What would you like to do more of? Let’s begin to shift our language and mindset about embracing positivity and growth in our daily lives. Afterall, we only get one shot at this thing called life.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

YOUR NORMAL IS GOOD ENOUGH

I heard this while watching the basketball game the other day and can’t get it out of my head. The reporter asked the coach what was the advice given to the players in the highly intense game. “Your normal is good enough.” You don’t have to do anything extra or different. Do what got you here. When you try to do things differently or switch your game up, you lose your authentic self. Those talents, gifts, knowledge, and experiences is what makes you great.

Thinking about this, this also applies to this long game we’re all playing called life. However, for us, we only get one life. There isn’t another chance like those players have another game. So to understand that you’re normal, whatever it is, is good enough. ALL THE TIME!!!!!

As I adopt this mantra, your normal is good enough, I encourage you to explore your “normal”. What exactly does that mean to you and for you? It means embracing your authentic self. What you’re great at. What you have challenges with. The small things that makes you unique, quirky, different, and fun. It’s knowing how you show up is good enough and more than enough. Knowing your normal is good enough means you lose the idea of perfectionism. MARCH TO YOUR OWN RHYTHM

Along with losing the idea of perfectionism, it means sticking to your game plan. Don’t try to adopt anyone else’s game plan. Just because it works for them doesn’t mean it will fit into your scheme or your end goal. You can be encouraged and inspired to tap into your own and grow within yourself.

In the office, your relationships, and within yourself your normal is good enough. Do what you’re great at, ask for help when needed, and know that what you possess is good enough. No one on this planet will have it all, be it all, do it all, know it all , or even be able to attain it.

Each day do what you normally do and see how much better your mental health becomes. Your confidence will grow. Giving you the ability to become the person you envision. How much at ease you’ll feel. The need to please is released. Thus leaving room for growth and development. Acknowledging your normal is good enough doesn’t mean we don’t challenge ourselves to greater heights.

Embrace your imperfections, celebrate your uniqueness, and live your life authentically, because in the end, it’s the journey that matters most, not the destination.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

WEEKLY MENTAL HEALTH REMINDERS

Hope you had a great weekend. It’s a new week and time for some simple, quick, and easy mental health reminders. Whatever happened yesterday or last week, it’s done. Stop dwelling over it and focus on the new opportunity this day or week is offering you.

Weekly Mental Health Reminders

Celebrate and focus on your progress. Something could have broke you, but you didn’t let it. Focus on your journey and don’t compare yourself to others.
Go to the doctor. Make that dentist appointment. Get that lab work done. Take care of your physical health. It has a great impact on your mental wellbeing.
Set small goals you can achieve. Starting big leaves room for disappointment, lack of motivation, and easy to let go. Starting small allows room for growth and improvement.
If you didn’t break it, it’s not yours to fix. If you can’t do anything about it, stop worrying about it. Release what’s out of your control. GENTLE REMINDER ABOUT SELF CARE
Set a time daily to unplug and disconnect from technology. Give yourself periodic social media detoxes. This will enhance your productivity.
Mistakes, setbacks, and challenges are all apart of growth. They are going to happen. They need to happen. How you learn, respond, and grow is the test.
You grow when you step outside of your comfort zones. Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself to do different.
Forgive yourself. Forgive others. It’s better for our mental health to let the grudges go.
Take time to unwind each night. Put a period on the day. Each day is a new opportunity.
Therapy is a good thing. If you aren’t getting what you need with what you’re doing. Seek additional resources when needed.

Take care of yourself. You owe it to yourself. You can’t get a redo on any given day. Keep it simple and enjoy this one life you’ve been given.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

DECLUTTER YOUR SPACE & RENEW YOUR SPIRIT

What is on this weekend self care list? Declutter, spring cleaning, renewing the energy and refreshing the spirit in the house. Cleaning closets, getting rid of old clothes and shoes, shredding mail, cleaning junk drawers, cleaning the deep freezer, and refreshing the linen for spring. 3 SELF CARE REMINDERS FOR THE WEEKEND

woman in brown jacket and blue denim jeans standing beside white wooden shelf

Have you been feeling overwhelmed, chaotic, anxious , can’t remember your to do list, and not with it? Well, take a look at your surroundings. Your home, car, office, closets, junk drawers, and any other space you occupy may have something to do with it. If those places are cluttered, messy, and everything is out of place, well it’s no wonder you are feeling stressed.

It’s no secret that a cluttered, disorganized space can leave us feeling overwhelmed and uninspired. However, by taking a time, day, or weekend to clean, declutter, and donate old items, we not only refresh our homes but also rejuvenate our spirits.

Declutter Your Space: Clutter has a way of weighing us down, both physically and mentally. When our homes are filled with excess belongings and disorganization, it can be challenging to focus and find motivation. That’s why decluttering is such a powerful tool for refreshing our living spaces and our spirits. Start by tackling one area at a time, sorting through items and deciding what to keep, donate, or discard. As you clear away the clutter, you’ll create space for clarity, creativity, and renewed motivation to flourish.

Tip: Give yourself a time limit based upon your lifestyle. Ex. If you haven’t worn it in a year or six months get rid of it or donate it. If you can’t fit it, donate it if possible. Don’t keep things for “just in case.” If that “just in case” hasn’t happened, then it won’t. Everything should have a place and there’s a place for everything. Too much STUFF can be overwhelming.

Donate Old Clothes to Charity: As you declutter your home, consider donating old clothes to charity. Not only does this act of kindness benefit those in need, but it also lightens your load and refreshes your wardrobe. When we let go of items that no longer serve us, we make room for new opportunities and experiences to enter our lives. Knowing that your old clothes will find new life with someone else can bring a sense of fulfillment and purpose, motivating you to continue decluttering and giving back to those in need. Self Care: Declutter and Make Room for Growth

In donating old clothes, this will give the push or confidence needed to step outside your comfort zone and dry different style ideas. Open your mind to new ways of living and being.

Refresh Your House: Once you’ve decluttered and donated, take the opportunity to refresh your home with a thorough cleaning and organization session. Clear away dust and grime, rearrange furniture for a fresh perspective, and add small touches like plants or artwork to breathe new life into your space. As you transform your home into a clean, inviting safe space, you’ll find yourself feeling more motivated and inspired to tackle whatever challenges lie ahead.

Cleaning, decluttering, and donating old items may seem like simple tasks, but their benefits goes far beyond a clean home. By clearing away physical clutter and refreshing your space, you create room for mental clarity, creativity, and renewed motivation to think and just be. So, the next time you’re feeling stuck or uninspired, consider taking a look at your surroundings and embark on a journey of cleaning, decluttering, and donating. You’ll be amazed at the transformation that unfolds – both in your home and in your spirit.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

SELF CARE: NURTURING RELATIONSHIPS, COMMUNICATION, & UNDERSTANDING

After coming across a YouTube video where the creator was stressing frustration over the money market self care has become, I thought I’d share a few reminders.

Yes, we are saturated with images of “flawless” beauty and unrealistic standards. It’s easy to fall into the trap of equating self-care with beauty maintenance. Self-care extends beyond pampering oneself; it includes nurturing relationships, fostering communication, and understanding oneself to be better for others . It’s about nurturing the mind, body, and spirit, rather than solely focusing on external aesthetics. Let’s embark on a journey to remind ourselves what self care really is and not fall into the surface layer.

Healing Relationships: Self-care involves treating the wounds of past relationships and fostering healing within current ones. It’s about setting boundaries, expressing emotions, and seeking reconciliation where needed. By addressing unresolved issues and prioritizing emotional well-being, we clear the path for healthier connections. Heal your inner self first. That inner child wound holds the key to your mental wellbeing. Recognizing our triggers and how to heal them is emotional healing.

Building New Relationships: Engaging in self-care lays the foundation for building new, meaningful relationships. When we prioritize our needs and values, we attract individuals who align with our authentic selves. By engaging in self-awareness and self-love, we enter relationships from a place of strength and authenticity. When we don’t heal ourselves, we may push away good people with good intentions because our insecurities won’t allow us to see clearly. Once you understand you, your emotions, and trauma, you can identify and attract the kind of relationships you desire and need.

Focusing on Communication: Effective communication is at the heart of every healthy relationship. Self-care involves honing communication skills, such as listening, acknowledging , and showing empathy. By having an open mind, honest conversation , we create spaces for understanding, connection, and growth within our relationships. Because we’ve worked on ourselves we can express our feelings and emotions instead of holding them in resulting in resentment.

Prioritizing Health: Physical and mental health play integral roles in nurturing relationships. Self-care encompasses prioritizing healthy habits, such as exercise, eating with color, sleep, and stress management. By taking care of our bodies and minds, we show up as our best selves in our relationships, ready to engage, share, support, comfort, and motivate .

Understanding Others’ Points of View: This was one of my greatest eye openers. Self-care involves the ability to show empathy and understanding towards others’ perspectives. It’s about listening without judgment, seeking to understand, and acknowledging diverse experiences and viewpoints. By practicing compassion and empathy, we create safe spaces for mutual respect and connection. Listening to understand their feelings and needs. What in their life triggers them to communicate how they do. Not expecting anyone to respond, react, communicate, or think how you would.

Avoiding Inflicting Pain: More importantly , self-care entails refraining from inflicting harm on others, whether intentionally or unintentionally. We hurt others because we haven’t dealt with our own hurt. It’s about recognizing the impact of our words and actions, taking responsibility for our behavior, and striving to do better. Opting for kindness, respect, and empathy, we open the door to nurturing, healthy relationships. When we attempt to hurt others, it says more about our inner struggles and pain we need to deal with. Furthermore, once the deed is done it can’t be undone.

In essence, self-care is a multifaceted prong of components. By prioritizing communication, understanding, and empathy, we create spaces for connection, growth, and mutual support. That’s where the true beauty lies. We can be the most aesthetically appealing on the outside but if the inner isn’t cleaned up, then it washes away that beauty. SELF CARE IS A LIFESTYLE What does all the points have in common? They are FREE. Let us remember the beauty routine, maintenance, mani’s, and pedi’s are great but focus on the inner first.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

WEEKLY MENTAL HEALTH REMINDERS

If I’ve learned nothing else along the way, I know exercising the mind daily is essential to a healthy lifestyle. Weekly or daily mental reminders are needed. Life is going to take us on a winding road, with curves, bumps, ditches, peaks, and mountains. Prioritizing our mental health will give us the stamina needed to trudge through each day.

Weekly Reminders:

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. We all need support, love, and encouragement. When you need help ask for it. Don’t hurt yourself trying to do things alone. Seeking support is a sign of strength not weakness.
Take a break. Give yourself time to rest. Not just for your body, but your mental as well. https://amzn.to/3HnrlqW Slow down and if it doesn’t get done, it’s not the end of the world. WELLNESS: EVEN THE STRONGEST NEEDS A BREAK
Be good to yourself. Tell yourself good things. Stop pointing out the negative. Your flaws are your strengths.
Find healthy outlets for your emotional well being. https://amzn.to/48T8PTd Do what soothes you. Journal, pray, meditate, gardening, coloring, binge watching a show, exercise , cooking, or whatever calms you.
No is a complete sentence. You have the right to say no. Boundaries are good for your mental health and protects your relationships. https://amzn.to/3vLBjjh
Pay attention to those who make you feel safe, calm, and you can be yourself. Listen to your body when it’s uneasy.
Find activities to challenge your mind, motivate you, and make you feel full. Tap into your creative spirit. https://amzn.to/48X7oTC
The smallest thing brings the most joy. Focus on the simple daily things that make you smile and comfort you. https://amzn.to/48Vwn9T
Remember there will be days you’ll not be ok. Own it. Do what you need on that day to replenish.
Worrying isn’t going to make things move faster. Change outcomes or stop something from happening. Be mindful and use your time to focus on the now.

Those are 10 mental health reminders to help you through the week. We don’t know what each week or day will bring, but we can be prepared mentally to not let anything over take our joy.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.