We are the Smiths

Monday, December 28, 2015

Happy Merry Everything

And so it comes to an end... 2015.

I for one am looking forward to the new year. Don't get me wrong, this year has been another great one for growth, but no one warns you about the amount of mourning there is in growth.

This year was filled with lots of travel, bucket lists, proud momma moments, soccer, remodels, concerts, big movements for LGBT, camping, hikes, shedding of things that no longer serve me, moving on, gratitude for a safe home, and time with family.

December was beautiful - my most favorite time of year! I got to celebrate with family and friends, take a trip to New York for work (and play - we got to experience the city like I never have with a private tour of 9/11s Firehouse), watch Miah create an awesome science project, take care of the cutest Christmas pup, and of course celebrate some births (happy birth month Jaba, Momma, Bro man, Kim and Katie).

Looks like we will be bringing in the New Year with the littles.

Thank you all who are part of my journey and even those who have been. It's been quite the ride and I am hopeful for the experiences I will create in the coming year. I think again, like this year, my resolution will be to just BE.

Happy New Years ya'll!

In front of the Trade Centers after attack (Note the Fire truck)

After the tower fell :(

Meet Holly

My Favorite gift!!

Grams and Gramps

Day of Birth Celebrations

Friend's Grand Opening.. Miah got to meet Derek Hough

Monday, November 30, 2015

#Blessed

Gahh... they're finally here; the holidays!

As you know, they make me all warm and fuzzy inside. I appreciate the hustle and bustle and the precious memories I get to make with those I love.

This month I feel truly blessed.

I am thankful for the many blessing God has granted me.

I am thankful for the loving, supportive family and friends I have, whom I've had the pleasure growing up with and knowing they care enough to always fight for our relationship - thru thick and thin. It's true, if someone can't love us at our worst, they don't deserve us at our best.

I'm thankful for new life... entering this realm and reminding me just how precious life is. I can't believe my sister is a grandma ;) (love you Nik) and I am a great auntie.
I am thankful for the beautiful little that I get to call mine. Watching her grow into a kindhearted, brave, hard working little lady. And knowing the impression I get the privilege to make on her heart.
I am thankful for awareness. Although I believe ignorance really can be bliss at times, being aware has put a lot of things into perspective for me.
I am thankful for the growth endured the past few years. It's unfortunate that our struggles are usually our biggest teachers, but without the bad we would not recognize the good.
I am thankful for the security I have. From the food in my belly, to my profession, home and clothes on my back.
I am thankful for technology; it allows me to see my cute Momma even miles and miles away.
I am thankful for my precious, cuddly animals, who are a reflection of pure love and remind me daily.
I am thankful for being able. Able to move freely, using all of my limbs, and in good health.
I am thankful our country was safe this month, keeping Paris in my thoughts and praying for an end to the terrorism.
I am thankful for my teachers. Every single person in my life has taught me something - love, forgiveness, joy, patience, compassion... and the list goes on and on. Even when I may not seem thankful, I am. So thank you.
I am thankful for our beautiful State and the opportunity to head any which way an hour or so, just to get a way.
Finally, I am thankful for every breath I get to take. I know I am here to do amazing things and it's not close to being over yet.

As the year comes to an end, don't forget to take some time to reflect. Take notice of your blessings, hug your loved ones a little tighter and work on not taking a single moment for granted. After all, once it's gone, it's gone.
<3