**Permission Slips**

9:04 AM—Walked into my favorite coffee shop wearing the dress—the one I sketched months ago, the one I kept calling "too simple" to actually make. But yesterday? I sewed it. Today? I’m living in it.

And when Ethan handed me my coffee—black, splash of oat, no napkin note—he grinned. "New dress?" Just two words, but I swear, my chest did this weird flip. Not because he noticed (though, let’s be real, Ethan noticing anything beyond espresso shots is a miracle), but because…

I didn’t need him to.

A month ago, I would’ve waited for validation—posted a mirror selfie, agonized over captions, refreshed likes like a maniac. Today? I just nodded, sipped my coffee, and let myself feel good in it.

Because here’s what’s shifting:

1. Growth isn’t just about doing—it’s about letting yourself enjoy it. Liam texted me last night: "Miss you. But also… love that you’re thriving without me." And instead of panicking (Is he pulling away?), I laughed. Because I am. And it’s not about him—it’s about me finally giving myself permission to take up space, even when no one’s watching.

2. My creativity doesn’t owe anyone complexity. That "too simple" dress? It’s just a slip silhouette—no ruffles, no cutouts, no hiding. Just fabric that moves with me, not for anyone else. I used to think my designs had to scream to be heard. Now? I’m learning the power of whispering.

3. I’m obsessed with private joy. October in LA is golden-hour magic, but today? I’m just as mesmerized by the ordinary—the way my dress catches the breeze, the way Ethan didn’t ask for design details, the way I didn’t offer them. No performative backstory. Just me, in a dress I made, loving it quietly.

Ethan just handed someone a latte with "Have courage!" scribbled on the cup. Old me would’ve ached for that kind of affirmation. Today? I realize—I have it. Just not from him.

Some of the bravest things we do are invisible. Unposted. Unpraised. Just ours.

xx Mandy

(P.S. That dress? Still simple. Still perfect. Still mine.)