I wrote a book called Minor Edits. It's about making small, sustainable changes that you can be proud of. Sometimes I forget to live it.

Today I was stressed and tired from getting ready for vacation. My chronic pain is flaring hard. I really wanted to make some homemade soup to surprise my husband so he wouldn't have to cook while I'm gone, though. Halfway through I realized I was missing a main ingredient. Shit.

I almost just called it quits. He can eat Taco Bell or cook for himself. He wouldn't mind. But this made me sad, because I was looking forward to surprising him with his favorite soup so he wouldn't be so sad while I'm gone.

I did it. I went to the store, used a coupon, didn't buy anything extra, and carried my items instead of using a plastic bag (you're welcome, Earth.) I even drove our beater car instead of the comfy new one, because it needed to be driven.

It sounds like nothing, right? Maybe you have to have chronic illness to understand, but I don't think so. I think we all have days like this.

Take the tiny wins. I’m really proud, even if no one else thinks I should be.