It’s funny how times change, sometimes for the worse, and sometimes for the best. 16 years ago, my life changed for the best. In less than a month, it’s changing again.
 
16 years ago, a mother and father sat their little girl on her bed and told her that she may have to leave behind family and friends to move 4 hours away. Of course, I was that little girl and the mother and father were my mom and dad. As a fourth grader, this news was heart breaking. My dad said he was interviewing for another job, a better job, and that it was a very good possibility that he would get it. I was in denial. No way I was leaving my best friends and the church boy I had a huge crush on.
 
1 week later… he got the job. I remember climbing the stairs, crying, wondering how I was going to tell my friends. I was only 10 and this was the worst thing I thought could happen.
 
When dad got home that evening, he promised we would find a house with a pool. My anger quickly went to… well, less-anger….(I always wanted a pool in my back yard, guys. ALWAYS).
 
I remember standing in the suite at Residence Inn, on July 4th, after being told we’d see fireworks, watching a horrible rainstorm drench the parking lot. Fort Myers was already shaping up to be a huge disappointment. (We still hadn’t found a house. Which meant no pool. I REALLY wanted that pool, guys).
 
Eventually, we found a rental that had a pool. And the hours we spent in that pool are countless.
 
Years went by, and we’ve live in many houses, but houses weren’t the only thing that changed; jobs changed, relationships changed, minds changed, and hearts changed.
 
But the times… well, they are a changin’ themselves
 
In late January this year, we {FINALLY} got a diagnosis for my dad, who had been having health issues for quite sometime. The diagnosis is ALS, and I’m not going to go into what all that entails, but I would encourage you to google for yourself.
 
I will tell you this, though: one aspect of ALS is that it attacks the muscles. We live in a two-story house currently, and with all of the bedrooms upstairs, it’s been really hard for my dad. We knew we needed to move, and we knew it needed to be somewhere close to family.
 
So, at the end of October, mom, dad, and I will be living in Orlando.
 
When mom told me that she was thinking of moving us to Orlando, I made the decision right then that I was going to find an apartment of my own and stay here. My best best best friend is here, and I was not about to leave her behind. I had a great job working with people who have become like family to me. My life was here in Fort Myers; had been for the past 16 years. Why leave that all behind? I’m eventually moving out of my parents’ home, so why not start??
 
That night though, God laid on my heart that I needed to go with them. Mom needs all the help she can get, and I just couldn’t leave her alone to take care of dad. Plus, I would be near all of my grandparents, not to mention my uncle, aunt, & cousins. Suddenly, leaving Fort Myers wasn’t so horrible. I quickly squashed the apartment idea and told mom she needn’t worry: I’m going with her and dad.
 
I am very, very sad to be leaving Fort Myers. We started this journey as a family of 4 in 2000. 3 of us are starting a new journey in Orlando, and 1 of us is starting his own journey right here. My not-so-little brother is beginning his life all on his own, and I honestly could not be more proud of him. This is his home. This is where he grew up and, although I am going to miss him terribly, I can’t wait to see how he thrives here.
 
I went to middle and high school here. I even went to college here for my first 2 years. I had my first boyfriend here. I’ve experienced heartbreak here. I got my first job ever here. I discovered my love of cookies & cream ice cream here. I got my first dog here and was able to love on him for 12 of the most amazing years. I discovered my love of photography.
 
I grew up here, really. It’s funny - people always ask, “Were you raised in Fort Myers?” The answer is always, “Kind of.” I took my first steps in Oviedo. I learned to ride a bike in Melbourne. Even though the first 10 years of my life occurred on the East Coast, I really feel like I grew up here. This isn’t my home, but it’s been a wonderful place to live some of the best years of my life.
 
{Bonus: I learned to crawl in Bonita, apparently. While on a family vacation in a condo. So, there’s that.}
 
I’ve made more friends in the past year than I have in the first 15 years. I’m tearing up right now thinking of my Leadership group. I am broken-hearted, knowing that I won’t be able to see you all much any more. All of your friendships have given me so much confidence in myself; a confidence I never thought I would have. I love all of you so much.
 
Ninnah, I’m not sure if you’ll read this, because you never do (it’s cool, dude!), but I have to say this here: distance will not be able to assuage our friendship. You’ve been the best best friend anyone could ever ask for, and I know you will continue to be. I’m going to miss you like crazy, but I know we’re going to make the best of this. Make sure you’re ready for road trips and weekend visits, because I’m not letting you go. Love ya, dude.
 
As I begin packing up my books, posters, Funkos, and everything else in my room, I know it’s only a matter of time before it all goes back up in a new home. I’m ready for this adventure, and all the ups & downs that might be headed my way..
 
Bring it on.

STOP! Before reading any further, please read this small disclaimer. Heathers the Musical is rated R, for a myriad (ha, myriad) of reasons – sex, violence, profanity, and alcohol/drugs, including underage drinking. So if there is ever a chance to see it in your city, I highly – HIGHLY – suggest you do your own research before deciding to purchase tickets.
 
That being said, the show must go on!
 
First, a little about the musical…
 
The show opens up with Veronica Sawyer, an unpopular, nerdy, high school senior with one friend, big college dreams, and a handy knack for forgery. She just wants every one to be kind to each other, just like when they were in kindergarten. Unfortunately, that’s not the case in high school. Everyone has there place: “geek, slut, burnout, poser,” jocks, Veronica, her best friend Martha, and… the Heathers. The Heathers are the popular girls, the group everyone idolizes. They’re beautiful and rich and wear the best clothes. Heather Macnamara (head cheerleader), Heather Duke (yearbook, no personality, breast implants paid for by her mom), and Heather Chandler (the Almighty) practically run the school.
 
Veronica decides she’s tired of being treated like gum on the bottom of someone’s shoe. She strikes a deal with the Heathers: forged hall passes for a chance to sit at the Heathers’ lunch table. She believes if the others think the Heathers “tolerate” her, they’ll leave her alone. Heather Chandler decides this could be good, if she undergoes a makeover – making Veronica one of the hottest girls in Westerburg High. Three weeks later, she runs into Jason Dean, aka JD - a tall, Baudelaire-quoting mystery in a black trench coat, and handsome to boot. She fell, and she fell HARD.
 
The rest of the musical follows Veronica as she and JD accidentally poison and kill Heather Chandler (oops). After that, a horrible rumor about Veronica begins circulating throughout Westerberg that she had a three-way with Kurt and Ram – two of Westerberg’s best football players. JD decides they need to exact revenge on those two, and after some planning on both their parts, JD shoots and kills them both, much to the Veronica’s surprise. Veronica now has to live with killing 3 of her peers and how she’s still in love with JD.
 
So, yes, it’s a kind of (really) horrible beginning story, but it’s a great show. It shows that high school is hard. It’s scary and unpredictable, and on top of that, there’s homework…?! Crazy…
 
I first heard about this musical when my cousin, Elliana, performed “Seventeen” with her best friend Frankie at a competition. I. Was. Mesmerized. I watched that clip over and over again. I then purchased the soundtrack and fell even more love with the music. All of the songs are brilliantly written and the music is just… wow.
 
Then I find out that Elliana was going to be performing in Heathers the Musical at a small theater near Orlando. THEN I find out that not only is she performing – she got the main part!
 
VERONICA!!!
 
Let me start by saying my cousin is an amazing performer. I was not sure how this production would measure up, because of its tiny black-box stage and small, unknown theater, but… IT. WAS. AMAZING. Everyone was fantastic, and my cousin brought me to tears with her performance.
 
Afterwards, I was listening to the conversation my uncle was having with the director. They were discussing the part of the play where Kurt and Ram are spreading that rumor about Veronica and she said, “During the first few times I watched that scene, I cringed. But then I realized something – high school kids really can be like that. They can start horrible rumors and treat their classmates with such cruelty.”
 
That’s the statement lead me to this post. Sure, Heathers the Musical is crude and filled with sex and language and drinking, but it hits the nail on the head when it comes to high school. Yeah, it’s a bit exaggerated, but consider this… isn’t everything exaggerated in our own heads? When I look back on my school years, I cringe at some of my actions and reactions to things that happened. I questions why I said this or did that. But I could justify those things back then, because every one else was justifying their own actions.
 
One of my favorite songs, sung by Heather Mac, is “Lifeboat” Heather feels like she’s one step away from falling apart. There’s all this pressure to stay popular, and she feels like one false move, and all of that will go away. She’s having some very dark thoughts. It’s scary for her to think that her life is changing so much and her future is unknown.
 
Take a look at these lyrics:
“I float in a boat
In a raging black ocean
Low in the water
With no where to go
The tiniest lifeboat
With people I know
 
Cold, clammy, and crowded
The people smell desperate
We'll sink any minute
So someone must go
The tiniest lifeboat
With the people I know
 
Everyone's pushing
Everyone's fighting
Storms are approaching
There's nowhere to hide
If I say the wrong thing
Or I wear the wrong outfit
They'll throw me right over the side
 
I'm hugging my knees
And the captain is pointing
Well who made her captain?
Still, the weakest must go
The tiniest lifeboat
Full of people I know
The tiniest lifeboat
Full of people I know”*
 
When I saw this performed by a phenomenal young woman named Katherine, I was so stunned. I think the entire audience was feeling the same, because no one clapped. Her performance was so moving, that for me, it felt like if I clapped, if I moved, if I even breathed, it would ruin the moment. It was that good. It also really opened my eyes to how I’m sure so many people feel.
 
There is so much pressure in school to do so many things – get good grades, be popular, dress well, be perfect. You’re scrutinized for every action. You have to question everything you do, everything you like or don’t like - whether it’s cool to be smart or not, to stand out or be normal. And what even is normal??
 
As an adult, I think we forget all too easily how hard high school can be. Parents, you can tell your teenager that you understand what they’re going through, and you may truly believe you do or try to, but the truth of the matter is this: you don’t. A teenager’s mind is so complex. They’re still trying to understand who they are, who their friends are, how they fit into this world, and all of this with added pressure of deciding what they want to with the rest of their lives after high school.
 
Life is full of ups and downs – ups that make us excited about life, and downs that are truly devastating.
 
It’s crazy how an off-Broadway production can make me realize these things, but I think that’s a good thing.
 
I honestly love this musical, despite the aspects that give it the R rating. I have listened to this album over and over and over and over, and I still find something intriguing or new each time.
 
I encourage you to explore your own thoughts about your high school experience. I also encourage you that if you find yourself speaking to a high school student, don’t tell them they have it easy. News flash: they don’t. Tell them that it may seem hard now, but that eventually, …
 
…life gets better. And it can be beautiful.
 
*Lyrics found here.

Below: Veronica and JD (Elliana and Hector) in performing "Seventeen" (I ship it so hard)

Usually, when I post one of these, I like to keep them light. I like to write in a way that is thought-provoking, but also leaves you chuckling or with a light heart.
 
This is not going to be one of those posts. I’ve had a lot on my mind recently, and a really need to speak it. I may even offend some of you, and cause some of you not to like me. That’s okay. I’m truly sorry if I offend you. I promise I don’t want to do so. That being said, however, I know this is going to rub some of you the wrong way, but here goes.
 
So buckle your seat belt and get ready for a wild ride.
 
There are some things I don’t think you should say to people when they’re grieving, or when they’ve just received bad news. My family recently received some “information” about my dad. For months now, my daddy has been struggling with an illness that we had no diagnoses for. Daddy visited doctor after doctor, had blood tests after blood test, followed by MRIs and Pet scans, which feel like too many to count. Finally, after a visit to the neurological department at a hospital in Tampa, we were given a diagnosis – ALS.
 
I’m not going to go into the details of what ALS is, as you can research that on your own, if you would like, but it’s not good to hear that you or anyone you love has it. As a family, we believe that my daddy is merely suffering the symptoms of ALS and that he will be healed of that affliction. Prayer is not something we take lightly. I believe that God is still a God of miracles, and that Satan has no hold over my life, my father’s life, my mother’s life, my brother’s life, or anyone else I love. He will NOT take my daddy.
 
Whew… Now that that’s done…
 
I haven’t told many people about this diagnosis – not personally, anyway – and I really don’t know why. I told my best friend almost immediately, obviously, and she, along with another best friend, has been very encouraging. My dad has since built himself a Facebook page so that friends and family may be kept up to date with his healing. Now I’m comfortable sharing with most people, even though it’s still not easy saying it when I’m face-to-face with a co-worker.
 
My point in saying all that is this: There are a few things I DO NOT want to hear from anyone. Please continue reading…

1.“My cousin/uncle/grandpa died from ALS.”           
This may sound harsh, but I really don’t want to hear it. Unless your story about your family member with ALS has a ‘but then God’ element to it, where said family member was completely healed of ALS, I don’t want to hear. Tell me things like “I’ve been through that. I’ll be praying for you.” And leave it at that. If you or someone you love is currently experience the symptoms of ALS, tell me and we can pray for them together. That’s fine. I will be here for you. JUST NO DEATH STORIES.

2. “You need to be prepared for how much your life is going to change in the next few years.”
Believe me, I’m ready for them to change, just not in the way that you may be implying. As of right now, we’re doing everything we can to help my dad. And when he does get healed, my life is going to change dramatically. I’m ready to tour the world, telling every single person I can find, whether sick or not, that God, my Daddy God, healed my dad of ALS. I’m ready and willing to spread that testimony tomorrow, if need be. COME AT ME, BRO.
 
And last, but certainly not least, if not the MOST important one…

3.“I’ll be praying for God’s will to be done.”
I was told this recently, and I was astonished someone could actually say this to someone who is grieving. “I’ll pray for healing, but if it’s God’s will that your dad dies, well, the it’s His will.” NO. That may be what you believe, but that is NOT what I believe. Yes, God has a will and a plan for every single person he has ever created. Jeremiah 29:11, perhaps one of my favorite verses, says that He has a plan for our lives – “plans to prosper you and not to harm you; plans to give you hope, and a future.” If you believe that promise, then you can’t believe it’s in God’s will to take someone so early in life. I understand tragedies happen. I’ve mentioned on here before about how I lost a very dear friend of mine to a horrible car accident a few years back. That still hurts today. And I can’t even begin to explain to you why she was taken so soon. I don’t want you to struggle to come up with an answer, either. Sometimes, there is no answer. But this, this disease that’s so hard to pronounce they made it an acronym, will not be a problem for my God.
 
I can’t tell you why my family is going through this. I have my suspicions, but only God knows the real truth. My daddy has a bright future ahead of him, and these symptoms are only temporary. I ask that you’ll keep him and my family in your prayers. For any readers out there who don’t pray, that’s okay. Please keep us in your thoughts, and maybe write a joke on my Facebook wall every now and then. ;)
 
Like I said, I know I’ve probably offended some of you with my beliefs, but I’m nothing if not committed to my convictions. I will not apologize for how I feel, because feelings are feelings, and these types of experiences make us who we are. And being myself makes me feel stronger, somehow, which is a really good thing.
 
Feel free to comment… (eek!)

If you’ve been living under a rock in the back of cave in the deepest, darkest forest in the middle of nowhere, you know there is a new Star Wars movie coming out soon.
 
I was so excited when I found out this news. George Lucas was a name that had been revered in my home since I was a child. I watched the original Star Wars trilogy with my parents and little brother, and instantly fell in love. Then, the prequels came out, and I became even more of a fan. Yes, the argument can be made that the prequels sucked and that Jar Jar Binks was a horrible character (which, watching them now, yeah, sure, he’s annoying). However, as a young girl, whose best friend was a neighbor boy, the Star Wars franchise was something I came to love, even with the prequels!
 
In 7th grade (or was it 8th?), my friend Sarah stayed at my house for a few days. During that time, I basically made her watch the Star Wars saga with me. She had to know what she was missing! We watched 4, 5, and 6, and I could tell she loved it as much as I did.
 
Being the creative 12-year-olds we were, we started writing our very own Star Wars, Episode VII. Sarah was the daughter of Luke Skywalker, I was the daughter of Han Solo and Princess Leia, and we were best friends/cousins training together at the Jedi Academy. Of course, Uncle Luke Skywalker ran the academy and trained us both. I’m pretty sure the entirety of this “film” was going to be Sarah’s character trying to find her mother with my character’s help. It was genius, in our young minds, and I loved writing along side my friend.
 
Unfortunately, we only got to three pages in (if that) before it fell to the wayside.
 
So, you can imagine my excited when the announcement was made that Star Wars: The Force Awakens was a thing that was happening! 
 
Sure, it’s not going to be as awesome as Sarah’s and my story, but hey, beggars can’t be choosers.
 
As excited as I was for this new installment to the saga, I’m sort of… over it.
 
It’s not because the story is lame, or overused, or that I don’t like J.J. Abrams (which I love him, so I’m actually excited to see what he does with the film).
 
It’s because of the merchandising.
 
You think Pumpkin Spice Everything is bad… Star Wars everything is even worse!
 
I mean, I can understand t-shirts, shoes, lunch boxes, toys…I can support that. Those things are normal. That’s healthy.
 
But, my word! They’ve got Star Wars everything right now!
Let me count the ways…
 

1. Christmas ornaments
2. Christmas stockings
3. Bicycles
4. Cookie Jars
5. Tervis Tumblers (so many version)
6. Wrapping paper
7. Tissue boxes
8. Toothbrushes
9. Toothpaste
10. Mouth Wash
11. Picture Frames
12. Alarm Clocks (yep, I’ve seen it)
13. Bedding
14. Phone Cases

 
And last, but certainly not least… potatoes. Yes, you can buy your very own Star Wars: The Force Awakens bag of potatoes, if your little heart so desires.
 
I’m so sick of it! Everywhere I go, it’s Star Wars this and Star Wars that. I can’t escape it! It’s so overdone and is taking away the enthusiasm I once had for my beloved saga. Granted, if I’m given Star Wars anything for Christmas, I’ll be extatic, but the point still stands: too much is too much.
 
I LOVE Star Wars, I do. I even have three wooden posters (one for each original film) hanging above my bookshelf. And I get the excitement, and totally understand that it’s a humongous deal that this is happening.
 
I am very excited for the new film, I’m just afraid that with all the merch, the excitement has dwindled.
 
Either way, it’s going to be a great film. I plan to see it in theaters, but not for a while. To the ones who have had their tickets purchased for opening night this week, …God-speed.
 
May the Force be with you!

Days 2 and 3
 
The reason this is called the “Season Finale” and not the “Series Finale” is very simple – we’re going back.
 
Due to some unforeseen circumstances, there were so many things we did not get to do. We were not able to see the Garden District or the French Quarter. We did not go on a riverboat cruise and we did not eat anything Cajun (how can I visit NOLA and not have one bowl of gumbo?! How did that happen?!?) I was told I needed to try a sandwich called a Muffaletta. I was not able to try this legendary sandwich.
 
As you can see, I have a long list of things I didn’t get to do. However, the things I did get to do made the trip very fun.
 
On the last two days, we did a lot of the tourist-y things. The Audubon Aquarium was amazing!! So many sea creatures, so little time!! My camera was more in use that day than any other. I have so many pictures from the aquarium; I don’t know what to do with them all (…except to upload them to Facebook. Ha!). The Audubon Insectarium was… creepy. Probably cool for a field trip of 4th graders (which, coincidently, there was one there we kept running into), but I probably would be okay if I never went back. Although I got some interesting pictures, I HATE BUGS! The butterfly garden was gorgeous, however. Hot…so, so hot, but gorgeous. The butterflies were able to roam around freely and land on whomever they pleased. Again, I was able to get some great pictures.
 
We were going to visit the Zoo as well, which I was particularly excited about, but none of us were really willing to walk the 8 miles to get there, and that would have been one expensive taxi! Plus, it was practically raining. So, instead, we went across the street to the Riverwalk shops and picked up some souvenirs. I LOVE SOUVENIRS. I could have spent all day and all my money buying souvenirs and would not have cared in the slightest!! I loved it! I bought so many* things!!
 
Later that night, Mel, Ricky, and I went back to the Riverwalk for burgers and fries. They were delicious! Let it be known that no matter where you eat in NOLA, the food is amazing.
 
Wednesday morning came without warning. It was a bit sad, as it was our last day, but exciting, too, as we had things planned for the day. First, Café Du Monde for one final breakfast of beignets (!!!!), then cemetery tour, then back to the hotel to get ready for our Farewell Dinner.
 
The cemetery tour was nothing short of amazing. Our guide knew so much, and I think I learned more about some historical events while on this tour than I did in college! We toured Saint Louis Cemetery 1. It was a gloomy, cold day, which only added to the excitement of the tour. I was able to get some lovely pictures. The tour began in the visitor’s center, which had this cute little shop (love a little shop!), so of course, I bought more* souvenirs!!! I got this awesome mask that is hanging in my bedroom. It’s beautiful.
 
That evening, armed with confidence, ready for battle in dresses and heels (sports coat and dress shoes for Ricky), we headed out to dinner. We made reservations at an Italian restaurant called Marcello’s. All four of us ordered Chicken Parmesan. It was delicious! A lovely way to end the trip.
 
One thing I loved about this trip, more than the city, even, was the time spent with my friends. I was never short of a good laugh. I enjoyed late-night card games and watching movies while winding down from the day.
 
I can’t wait to return to New Orleans. This saga will continue! Adventure is out there!!!
 
 
 
 
*too many
 
The End
 
Credits
 
                               Mel            Best Friend, Crotchet
                                                            Genius, Beignet enthusiast
 
                                      Ricky          New Great Friend, Fellow
                                                       Whovian, NOLA Wizard
 
                                               Miracle       Also New Great Friend, Driver,
                                                                      Pitch Perfect Provider, Lover of
                                                                                                    Cherry Blossoms

Beignets, Ruby Slippers, and Bookstores, Oh My!


Okay, I want you to imagine this scene unfolding:
 
It’s a new morning in a new city. The whole day is ahead of you and adventures you can’t possibly imagine.
 
You walk to a place called Café Du Monde, because in New Orleans, that’s what you do. You find a table and you and your friends sit down, place your order with the sweet waitress, and enjoy the small jazz concert being performed right in front of you.
 
You’re lost in the breeze and the melodies, thinking about how much you love this city, and the people, and the music,
 
and then,
 
all of a sudden,
 
THIS…






















…is placed in front of you.
 
Just looking at this… this beautiful creation before you is enough to drive your stomach crazy with want, and make your arms and legs jealous because they don’t get to taste this delectable pastry of colossal flavor known as…the beignet.
 
I wish I could bring these home for everyone I’ve ever known to try. My children and my children’s children will know of this majestic pastry. I would come here on a weekend getaway just for one of these babies. The coffee at Café Du Monde was also absolutely amazing. I had just a simple black coffee and it was the BEST coffee I have ever, EVER had in my life!!
 
After that life-altering experience, my friends took me to this place called the Ruby Slipper Café. If you didn’t already know this about me, the Wizard of Oz is my favorite book of all time, ever (Tin Man is my favorite. And Toto!). The Ruby Slipper Café had great food, and a perfect tagline: “There’s no place like home!”
 
We took a few moments and stayed around Jackson Square. Jazz music and some of the friendliest people you will ever meet inhabited that area, and it made for some fantastic pictures. (I'll be uploading all of my pictures in the Photography section.)
 
To complete my birthday celebration, we visited a used bookstore called Crescent City Books. As I have previously mentions, I am on a book-buying ban until after my trip. However, all bets were off inside this place! I mean, I couldn’t have been happier. And my best friend was able to locate the store’s cat (see below), so I know she was happy, too!

After some time resting in the hotel, Mel, Ricky, and myself headed to Walgreens to run an errand. We ended up seeing some of the most beautiful sights of the city, the Riverwalk being one of them.
 
I had so much fun, and it was all thanks to my fabulous friends!!
 
 
…and the beignets. I mean, for real. The beignets.
 
 
 
(I’m thinking I’m going to condense days 3 & 4 into one post. Tune in tomorrow for that one!)

New Orleans – Episode 2
 
Originally, I was going to do one post for 2 days, but tomorrow is my birthday, and the things my best friends have planned for me have already made me cry with joy, so I’m going to dedicate an entire post to tomorrow.
 
And onto today’s episode -
Scene –
 
WE MADE IT!
 
Flashback to 6:30pm on November 28…
 
Mel and I crawl into bed we were sharing at Miracle’s, freezing and uncomfortable, determined to get some sleep before needing to be up in a few hours to leave.
 
Needless to say, Mel and I are not good at going to sleep when we really don’t want to. It was a lot of talking and story sharing, and Pinterest-browsing. I think we were just too excited to sleep!
 
I think I got about an hour of sleep, Mel only 45 minutes, if that, before we were awoken by our alarms.
 
Fast-forward an hour: we have loaded all of our bags and ourselves miraculously into Miracle’s Prius, and hit the road!
 
...almost. The GPS in the car took us some crazy route before we were even able to get onto the highway.
 
But, as always, the show must go on! We switched to Google maps app on Miracle’s phone and then really hit the road!
 
I don’t want to bore you with the details of our the ten-hour car ride, but I will give you a… a montage, of sorts…
 
Picture if you will…
 
*”Life is a Highway” by Rascal Flatts begins playing*
 
The road stretches out before us.
Countless miles on seemingly endless roads.
Hours of music at our disposal
Pit stops for fuel - for the car and ourselves
A dark night, a foggy morning, and, eventually a sunny day
We laughed, we sang, we danced…
*End montage*
 
And we finally arrived in New Orleans…
 
And it’s perfectly picturesque…
 
We finally meet up with the 4th part of our trip clan, Ricky, check into our hotel, and it’s like the perfect afternoon.
 
We’ve spent the last 5 and a half hours hanging out, opening presents (!!!!), listening to music, and eating pizza.
 
So, we’ve yet to see anything really of NOLA (except for the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, which is visible from our window, because it’s RIGHT NEXT DOOR!!!!), but we get to do some exploring tomorrow.
 
Right now, we’re content to enjoy each other’s company.
 
Tune in tomorrow for Episode 3 – Torie’s Birthday Extravaganza!
 
 

So, for every television series, they have what’s called the “Pilot Episode.” This episode is the first one of the series and is used to launch the series, so to speak, and to help get the show started.
 
As I am about to travel to New Orleans on my first ever vacation that did not involve family, this post will be the pilot episode.
 
For the first leg of the trip, my best friend and I traveled to North Carolina. Yes, it’s out of the way of our final destination, but it was necessary, as we needed to pick up the third co-star of our little trip.
 
It was a trip that should have taken us 10-hours, if we didn’t stop. We got here in less than 10 hours, with 4 stops and 3 traffic jams along the way. I have a lead foot (I take after my mom) and drove the whole time, simply to see if I could. It was a blast. I sang and car-danced, and took 6 whole Thrive pills!
 
I had so much fun, but let me tell you, I think my best friend had even more fun. My best friend had only ever been out of the state once, when she was 3, and barely remembers it. So whenever we crossed into a state line, it was cause for screams, louder music, and more car dancing!
 
We drove through Florida (which took forever!!), Georgia, South Carolina, and just barely across the border into North Carolina. The weather is beautiful here! I’d forgotten what it was like to see leaves of the orange and red variety.
 
After meeting up with our third co-star, we slept… and shivered, and then watched TV, and I fell asleep again (for, maybe 10 minutes, but they swear it was 30. Whatever.), and have been running errands the rest of the day.
 
I am so so so ready to hit the road and finally end up in New Orleans! Once there, we will meet up with the fourth addition, here to fulfill his supporting role in this crazy adventure!
 
I’m excited for beignets, gumbo, jazz music, cold weather, good times and lots of laugh with great friends! Mel, Miracle, Ricky – I am beyond excited to begin this saga with you all!
 
Tune in tomorrow for Episode 2!

On Monday, November 30, I will be turning 26 years old…eek!
 
For some of you reading this, you’re thinking, “Oh, you’re so young! Don’t complain about getting old. Just wait until you reach my age!”
 
…and I totally get that. Please don’t misread this – I do understand that I am young.
 
However, life right now is not how I pictured it would be. When I was 12 years old, I pictured my life like this:
 
18 years old - job at Disney (hopefully as Belle), and living with my grandparents while I attend UCF for a degree in Marketing.
22 years old – Graduate from UCF along side my fiancé
23 years old – Get married!!!
25 years old – Raising my little baby girl, with visits to her grandparents as often as possible.
26 and beyond – Live happily ever after, growing old with my husband and watching our children pursue their dreams…
 
In reality, only part of that actually happened was the college part. I did attend UCF and lived with my grandparents, but no job at Disney, and I graduated with a degree in Hospitality Management. I do not have a boyfriend, and haven’t had one since I was 19 years old, so I’m not married, and I have no kids.
 
So life doesn’t always go as you planned.
 
You just have to be grateful along the way.
 
Which brings us to the main topic today – 25 things I’m grateful for. Since I’m turning 26, I wanted to share with you all 1 thing of which I’m grateful for each year I’ve been alive.
 
Here we go!

1. God
   Of course, the most important thing to me is my relationship with God. Without Him and His Word, I would not be the person I am today, and neither would my family. I am thankful everyday for the relationship I am able to have with my Savior, and the sacrifice He made by sending His son to die for my sins. Thank you, Jesus, for all you have blessed me with.
2. My family
   If you’ve known me for any length of time, you know how important my family is to me. I will give up a night on the town with my friends to have a movie night in with my mom and dad, and hopefully my brother. J They are wonderful human beings and I laugh so much when I am with them. This also goes for my extended family. Their love and influence have made me want to be a better person. I love you all.
3. My friends
   It wasn’t until recently that I could say I had a best friend. I had a hard time admitting that anyone other than the friend I lost to a tragic car accident was my best friend. Then, here comes Mel, with her adorable laugh, beautiful heart, and her love of all things Marvel, and I knew I could begin moving on. It’s because of her that this blog even exists, and that this girl *points to myself* could slowly soften her heart to the idea that life can be full of wins and losses. And that that’s okay.
4. My job(s)
   Here’s a big one. Yes, jobs are important and play a critical role in all things money related. However, for me, my jobs have lead to opportunities and friendships I wouldn’t have otherwise. I met Mel through m first ever job, I made lovely life-long friendships at my job in Orlando, and my job at Hyatt Place has given me the best experience of my life. P.S. Sales is the place to be in the Hospitality Industry!
5. Food/Water
   This one is a no-brainer, but I feel it’s necessary to mention. So many live without food every day, and knowing that in other countries, villagers have to travel miles on foot for fresh water just makes me tear up. Where as I have filtered water from my fridge and drink at least one bottle of fresh, clean water everyday.
6. A home
   My father has always made sure we had a home. We’ve moved several times, as we had to go from owning to renting, and the leases end every 2 years or so, but at the end of the day, we still call it home. Because we are all there to make it so.
7. Freedom
   I have a great deal of love, admiration, and pride for our military. My grandfather was in the National Guard when he was younger, and several people with whom I am close have served/are serving in the army or marines. The sacrifices they all make are unbelievable, and I want to thank them and hug every single one of them.
8. Creativity
   When I browse the Internet, I am constantly astounded at the things people create. I am also blown away at the cleverness and wit some of them are blessed with. They have me rolling! I am also blessed with the gift of creativity, which gives me the ability to even run this blog, let alone make a living in this world!
9. Humor
   I LOVE TO LAUGH. It doesn’t take much to get a giggle out of me. Seriously, make me laugh, just once, just the slightest bit, and I am yours forever. I will continue to describe you as “so funny” until I get to know more about you, which I will, because you made me laugh. Laughter is the best medicine, right? It’s good for the soul, and make you feel better about anything. As Donald O’Conner said in Singin’ In The Rain, Make ‘em laugh!
10. Technology
    Of course, where would any of us be without our smart phones, tablets/iPads, and laptops, right? I know my phone is glued to my hand, just in case something important happens, and the President of the United States decides he wants to chate (as if). But hey, it could happen!
11. Books
    Ah, books. I could sit here all night and talk about books! Books can take you away! You can be traveling around Paris in one book, pick up another and you’re in Kansas, following a young girl and her odd-looking friends to find a wizard. I love reading books, buying books, smelling books (yes, yes, I know), and talking about books!
12. Christmas
    Christmas is my favorite holiday. I love giving gifts, and of course, receiving gifts! (It’s actually my love language, which is awesome!) My favorite thing about Christmas though, is watching people open the gifts I’ve gotten them. I’m usually great about getting people something they really need or that suits their personality or interests, and I don’t say that to brag on myself. I just like getting people those things!
13. Leadership 2015
    Oh my goodness, what can I say about this group. Now, I’m going to write a post about my experience in the Greater Fort Myers Chamber Leadership class later, but for now… I want to focus on the people I spent 3 months getting to know. You all have become my favorite people on this planet. I could spend everyday with you guys and never become tired of it. You have become some of my closest friends, and I hope we stay that way for a very long time. Hugs to all!
14. My camera
    For my 21st birthday, my parents got me a Canon Rebel T1i, and it was beautiful. I recently upgraded to a Canon 70D, and it too is beautiful. My camera allows me to be creative and have fun at the same time.
15. Countdowns
    What’s more fun then a countdown to a fun event?! Graduations, birthdays, road trips (!!!!!!), - countdowns add to the excitement!
16. Peace
    This one speaks for itself.
    (Are you still reading this!)
17. Traveling
    I used to travel so much when I was singing with my mom and grandma. I’ve been all over the lower-eastern side (ha!) of the United States, Mexico, Israel, Hawaii… Yes, traveling is good. Very, Very good.
18. Shoes
    Sometimes, the right pair of shoes can complete your outfit. I’m more suited to Converse these days, but I used to plan my outfits around the shoes I wanted to wear that day. Yeah, I was THAT kind of girl….
19. Mission Trips
    Yes, mission trips are technically traveling, but they are SO much more than a trip with your family to the World’s Biggest Ball of Paint in Indiana (yes, that’s a real thing, by the way). I’ve been on several mission trips – Mexico, New York City, Montana, Trinidad, and, my favorite of all – Iquitos, Peru. Maybe I’ll share a little more about that particular trip later, but for now, here’s what I’ll say – mission trips are life changing. You go, hoping to change someone’s life for the better, and come back being changed yourself. Life just isn’t the same after you’ve helped someone paint their church, or provided food donations, or even just sat with someone who needed a listening ear. I promise, it’s the most rewarding thing.
20. Sports
    Yes, I am a Florida Gator. Born and raised in Florida, my daddy would sit me on his lap while we watched Danny Wuerffel throw perfect touchdown passes against FSU on Saturday afternoons. My first phrase I ever learned was “Gators number 1! Seminoles PU!” (yeah, that one my dad taught me). I also love to play volleyball, watch golf, and go to baseball games. I was raised to love sports, no matter what!
21. Education
    You’re already aware that I have a degree in Hospitality Management from UCF. I’m thankful for that degree, because now, I am the Sales Coordinator for the Hyatt Place in Fort Myers, which has opened so many doors for me!
22. Fireplaces
    Living in Florida, it’s rare to find a home with a fireplace. Sure, people here do bonfires like they’ve been left to die on a deserted island with only a bloody volleyball as a friend, but it’s just not the same as curling up on the couch with a cup of tea and watching the logs burn. It’s very peaceful.
    (See #16)
23. Tea
    Ah, yes, a good ol’ cuppa – nothing beats it. I’m mostly a coffee drinker, but when I need to wind down, nothing does it like a steamy hot cup of mint tea.
    (If you’re still reading this,… hi!)
24. A Warm Smile
    I wish people smiled more. I think it’s my general goal in life to always make sure people are happy. Again, I refer you to Donald O’Conner.
25. Hugs
    I’m not a big hugger. I’m awkward around new people, and extremely introverted (I’m way cooler on the internet). When we first meet, and you hug me, I’m going to feel acutely uncomfortable and probably avoid you for the rest of the night. However, after I’ve known you for a while, I’m totally okay with the hugging. It’s how we show affection and I get that. I even crave it sometimes. Whenever I’ve had a bad day, or I’m just feeling lonely in general, I’ll text my mom, tell her I need a “momma hug” and know that I’ve got the warmest, most welcoming hug waiting for me when I get home. It’s a good thing.

 
Okay, so this turned into a super long post. Way longer than I intended. For those of you who read through this whole thing… wow. I’m impressed. And super happy you did.
 
Well, I guess there’s no turning back – I’m turning 26. I’m ready to see what this next year brings me! Maybe I’ll be able to add a 26th thing to be thankful for next y