A Little Bit Stronger

"Happiness is the consequence of personal effort. You fight for it, strive for it, insist upon it and sometimes even travel the world looking for it. You have to participate relentlessly in the manifestations of your own blessings."
- Elizabeth Gilbert

When I first read that quote, I felt like I had been punched in the stomach. Here it is. It's the directions to happiness that I've been looking for. I put my book down for the night but couldn't sleep. I tossed and turned thinking about those words for hours. I texted the quote to a good friend of mine the next morning. I even posted it as my Facebook status. After dissecting it for days, I realized that the words I was reading were just an explanation of what has been in my heart all along. Happiness is the result of persuing a dream and fighting for what you want. God's blessings have been there the whole time, but I finally noticed that in order to experience them, I had to PARTICIPATE.

I finally finished reading Eat Pray Love today. I turned the last few pages while laying on the beach near Pearl Harbor. What better place to finish off a book about the persuit of happiness than on the shores of the Pacific ocean? Some days I forget how lucky I am to be living here. I see some of the most beautiful beaches in the world almost on a daily basis, but I try not to get used to it. I don't want to lose the child-like giddiness I feel when I put my feet in the sand and feel the rush of the warm blue foam between my toes. This is true happiness, folks. Talk about one of God's greatest and most beautiful blessings...and it's all right here, in my backyard.

Lately, I've found myself missing parts of my life back in Texas. Not just friends and family, but the simplicity of how things were just a month ago. I might live in paradise, but real life tends to creep up on me when I'm least expecting it. When I'm having a difficult day, I usually convince those around me that a trip to the beach is needed. No one ever turns me down. It's my greatest source of therapy. We pile into the car, boogie boards and snorkeling gear in tow. I love to just sit on the beach and watch my nieces and nephew be kids. What great stories they'll have about growing up on the beaches of Hawaii. If I'm not people watching, I tend to get lost in a good book...or sometimes I take my iPod and just sit there and gaze out at the ocean. Several of us went to Turtle Beach on the North Shore last weekend. Despite a few injuries, it was one of my favorite days in Hawaii so far. I watched a family of sea turtles swim up to shore. I watched a group of surfers paddle out into the blue ocean and catch waves. I got to spend time with new friends...friends I'm so blessed to have met. As I sat in the sand and gazed out over the water, I was amazed at how flawless it was. It was the most sincere feeling of peace I've had in a long time. This enormous body of water is all I can see as I fix my eyes upon the ocean. It's almost as if it never ends. It's different shades of blue and turquoise...the reflection of the sun creating diamonds on the surface of the water...it's absolutely perfect. It's here that I realize how small I really am. The difficulties I'm dealing with are so insignificant. I was reminded in this moment how great...and how big...our God really is. Here it is again, ya'll. True happiness. It's where problems seem to disappear and the joys of life emerge.

Sitting in the car today, the song "A Little Bit Stronger" came on the radio. My sister-in-law told me everytime she hears it, she thinks of me. I've heard it numerous times, but never really listened to the words until tonight. There's a line in the lyrics that mention "even on my weakest days...I get a little big stronger..." No other words could ring more true. With each day that passes and with each new experience God allows, I get a little big stronger. The day will come when I'm ready to go home...but for now, I'm trying to dive into this new chapter in my life and redefine my happiness. It's there, I know it is. I can feel it. All I have to do now is participate relentlessly in the manifestations of my own blessings...blessings that are becoming more and more clear as the time goes on.

Prayers for Texas

Being thousands of miles away from my homestate is hard.

Especially in times like these.

My thoughts are with everyone in Texas who has been affected by

these monster wildfires. I pray that rain comes your way very, very soon.

"Book 'Em Danno..."

So...I got a job. Kinda, sorta...in a round-about way. When I decided to move to Hawaii, I started researching a few talent agencies in the Honolulu area to see what was available in the way of work. I did some modeling throughout high school, but...truth be told, I haven't been in front of a camera since then. I had my doubts about even trying to do anything in this industry again. Honestly, I'm much more interested in the behind-the-scenes work. But, I knew it was a way to make a little bit of extra money if need be since I'd be moving here without a job. So, I started contacting different agencies and submitting snapshots. I started remembering some of the movies and tv shows that are filmed here and the wheels really started turning. Hawaii Five-O came to mind almost immediately. I found an agency here who casts for extra work (she did casting for "Lost" throughout its reign), so I sent in the necessary information and waited. And waited. And waited.

Finally, I got an email last week with news of a meet-and-greet today. I told a handful of people I'd be going..mainly for good measure (I needed a few people to cross their fingers for me!)...and whatever prayers or good luck charms they sent my way worked. Granted, it might only be a few episodes. Who knows. They film from now through springtime, which is perfect timing. Extra work is very sporadic. It's all about who the casting director is looking to use in any given scene. And, I may only be noticable on camera for a few seconds. But, I look at this as a learning experience and an amazing opportunity. Finally...a ray of light in what has been a pretty difficult transition. I'm excited to do this. They asked if I was available Monday and I practically ran the poor casting girl over with my enthusiasm. So, what turned out to be an idea to "make some extra cash" actually has me super excited.

My stepmom has encouraged me throughout this move to "do something for myself." No matter what it is...do something that makes me happy. Learn and experience new things. Don't focus on what (or who) you left behind in Texas. If those things in Texas are meant to be, they'll still be there when this chapter of my life comes to a close. But right now, at this very moment, I'm finally starting to see what she has been trying to teach me. Happiness isn't found in friends or in a man. It's found when you finally find yourself and do something for you. This opportunity might seem insignificant to many. It's nothing too special and nothing to brag about by any means. But, for the first time in a long time, I went out on my own and went after something I wanted and didn't care what other people thought. And it's made me realize that maybe, just maybe, there's a reason I'm here.

A sweet friend of mine posted a quote on her Facebook page
today that was so inspiring that I wanted to share it...

"Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover." -- Mark Twain

I love it...couldn't be more fitting for me right now. Absolutely perfect.

Kalos Kai Agathos

It's what the Greeks call a singular balance of the good and the beautiful. I want that. In a dangerous way.

I've been reading "Eat Pray Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert for weeks. Usually I can speed through a book in a matter of days. This one is different. So many people recommended this book to me that I finally decided to give in. I watched the movie first (I know, I know..cardinal sin)...and I was not impressed. But, because so many have made connections from the book to my own journey, I decided to give it a chance. So far, I'm pleasantly surprised. Every few pages I read, I find myself getting inspired. On the flip side, it's almost haunting to read because of how similar my experiences have been over the last year. The crying on the bathroom floor described in the first chapter? Yep, that was me. More than once. The tearful question of "Is this really my life?" Again, that was me last summer. I picked the book back up tonight for the first time since I've been in Hawaii. Almost immediately, I was inspired to open my laptop and write because of one simple quote.

"...both pleasure and devotion require a stress-free space in which to flourish and I'd been living in a giant trash compactor of nonstop anxiety. As for how to balance the urge for pleasure against the longing for devotion...well, surely there was a way to learn that trick."

Whoever can teach me the trick to learning that lesson will be my hero. Taking cues from the book, I've taken a step in the right direction. I'm not quite as brave as the author, who describes her dreams of learning Italian and traveling to Italy, meeting with her religious guru in India and to top it off...teaching English to an old medicine man in Bali. I'm perfectly happy and content with my journey that has led me to Hawaii. Before deciding to move here, I bought a book about the island of Oahu. I've been a few times, but never had to think about anything except for lounging by the beach with a cocktail in each hand. The plane ride over here this time was different. Over the course of the 8 hour plane ride (and many adult beverages later...), I had a mental list of everything I wanted to do while living here. I don't know where I inherited this gene, but I have a knack for choosing life-threatening activities. Skydiving (again), scuba diving, swimming with sharks, learning to surf, kayaking, night time snorkeling, etc. Call me crazy, but I'm going to try and experience everything I possibly can while I'm here. Lately, I've been feeling a little homesick, so I keep reminding myself of how lucky I am to be here. Not many people can say they've got to explore an island so beautiful for months on end. I left a lot back in Texas. A LOT. I know it sounds cheesy, but after the year I've had (actually the past 6 years, but who's counting?), I feel the need to "find myself" again. I lost who I was in a bad relationship. I want to do something for me, figure out what I want and prepare myself to eventually move on from this adventure as a new person.

In the midst of the past few months, I've had so many people offer advice (most of which, I appreciate..haha). If there's anything I can pass on, it's this: Do what makes YOU happy. Don't care what other people think. Don't be afraid of change; it's necessary in order to grow. Believe in yourself when no one else does. Have faith. Smile, even when you feel you can't. Laugh until your stomach hurts. Pray honestly. Cry when you need to. But most of all...trust in love again...and don't be afraid to fall.

Maybe one day I'll figure out how to balance the good and the beautiful. Right now, in this very moment, I'm just happy to be out of the "giant trash compactor of nonstop anxiety." I'm definitely headed in the right direction. It's just going to take some time to get there. And in the meantime... living life, fulfilling dreams and being coined a gypsy can't be topped.

Aloha :)

The Stars At Night...Are Big And Bright...

Deep in the Heart of Texas...

It's my last day in Texas. I've never had a more bittersweet feeling in my life. I spent most of yesterday wiping running mascara off my face as the tears wouldn't stop. I feel like I've been saying my goodbyes for weeks. Actually, I guess I have. But, yesterday was particularly difficult. I finally realized as I watched my 4Runner get loaded onto an 18-wheeler bound for Long Beach, California that this is really happening. Never in my life would I have imagined I'd be packing up and taking such a risk. With that said, I know for right now it's the best decision I can make. I only have a small window of time to take this opportunity, and the last thing I want to do is live life with regret. I might get there and fail. I might get there and wish for the simple life in Midland, Texas. But, I could also get there and love it. I'll never know unless I try. I recently had a conversation with a friend of mine-- he said something that has stuck with me ever since. He said I might make a decision and fall flat on my face but the good news is...I can stand up, dust myself off and say I gave it my all. I got a tattoo several months ago that means more to me now then it did when I got it. It's a quote by Marilyn Monroe.

"You never know what life is like until you have lived it."

So, I'm gonna live it. And live it well.

To my Texas friends and family...you are my heart. You mean more to me then you'll ever know. I'll treasure the times we spent together and the memories we made. And I already look forward to the day when I can see you all again. Please don't hesitate to make it sooner rather than later...Hawaii is an incredible place to visit!

And to a certain someone (you know who you are)...thank you for being you and for making the past couple of months incredible. I'll be seeing you soon... :)

Music City And A String Of Goodbyes

The past week was one of the best of my life. It was packed full of good times and I'll treasure the memories made forever. Saying goodbye to family and friends was very bittersweet. The adventure ahead will be amazing, but I'm sad to leave loved ones behind. Guess this means a trip to Hawaii is in the near future for many of you!

My week started out with a trip to Nashville. What better place to spend the 4th of July?! It was my first time in Music City and let me tell you...it won't be my last. I LOVED IT. Big city fun with a small town feel. I got to spend time with some amazing people and I'm so thankful for that. I got a private tour of Music Row, stood on the legendary steps of the Ryman Auditorium, got kissed on the cheek by Naomi Judd, watched Grammy award winner Keb Mo belt out America the Beautiful at a private party and I watched the amazing downtown fireworks show while listening to Darius Rucker play a free concert. First trip to Nashville? SUCCESS. Thanks to all who made that happen. You know who you are :)

Standing on these steps was...overwhelming. It was like touching a piece of country music history. To think performers like Johnny Cash and Patsy Cline have walked these very steps is pretty amazing.

Awww...this is my cousin Bart and me. Believe it or not, it was our first time meeting. He's a riot, folks. SO MUCH FUN. He's in the music business and had the hook up to the private July 4th party that led to me running into the Judds.


Stephanie is one of the sweetest and most genuine people I have ever met. We've known each other since we were about 5...she and her hubby are living in Nashville now and luckily she was able to grab lunch one day. So great to see her and catch up!


After Nashville, I headed back to Texas for days of driving and visiting friends and family. I'm so thankful I had the time off in order to do this. I have no idea when I'll be back in Texas, so I wanted to see as many people as I possibly could. If I missed you, I'm sorry. I tried my best to plan my days in different cities so I could see all of you, but it was next to impossible to travel everywhere. I spent time in Austin, San Antonio and College Station...and to those of you who made the effort to see me, I love you and appreciate you for it!

Sweet cousin Krystan and her adorable lab, Duke. Krystan recently had surgery and was discharged from the hospital just a couple hours before this picture was taken. She was such a trooper to visit with me even though I'm sure she was exhausted. I love you, Krystan!

Oh my goodness. I can't rave enough about Lindsey. She and I were best friends in high school but lost touch for a long time. She came to my Aunt's house in Austin after work one day and kicked my butt playing washers. It was so great to catch up with her and I only wish we had more hours together. True friends can go years without talking but the moment they come together again, it's as if they were never apart. This girl is one of those friends and always will be.

STACY!!! OMG. She is one of my very best friends and I love her seriously to pieces. We have grown close over the past several months after reconnecting in November. She is the sweetest thing. After a long day at work, she had me over and cooked a TO DIE FOR dinner. I only wish I had that talent. It was awesome to sit in her home and relax with a glass...or two (maybe 3?) of wine with one of the most amazing people on earth.

I then made my way to College Station...somewhere I haven't been in about 10 years, but clearly I've missed out on a lot! It was a ton of fun. A mini high school reunion pretty much! To all who came out to say bon voyage, I truly love you for it. It meant the world to me to see all of you and make some memories.

Oh...Julie. I cannot possibly express through words how much she means to me. Friends since 4th grade. Ex pen-pals. One of the most beautiful and amazing moms to ever walk the face of the earth. She has been there for me through many hardships...whether she's a listening ear or giving me her honest opinion, she never compromises her beliefs and will always be someone I look up to and strive to be more like.

What a fun group of boys. We had a blast. Probably too much fun, actually...if that's even possible. That's my brother Mitch on the left and Nick, Aaron and Justin are all friends from high school. OH WHAT A NIGHT.

Kyle is one of a kind. I asked him if my shoes matched my dress and I don't think I'll EVER live that one down. If you ever need a laugh, find him. He won't disappoint. And if you ever want breakfast burritos thrown at you at 8am after a night of partying...again, he won't disappoint.

I love this picture. Aaron is seriously one of the most special men I've ever met. He makes me laugh and is probably one of the only people who can make fun of me without getting me riled up. He's genuine and endearing and the hardest working person I know. We also have a contract he better not ever violate. HAHA :)

Justin. There are no words. I'm so sad we lost touch for so long but I'm so excited we got to hang out. This guy has a way of making any woman feel like a queen. His personality is one of a kind and I love him for being himself and not caring what others think. I also love his cowboy boots...I'm thinking I need a pair to take to Hawaii!!

Mandy...my twin. I am so so so so so thankful I got to see her. She is beautiful inside and out and has overcome some of the most difficult hardships life could ever present. We ran track together for years and I'm sure she could still leave me in the dust. From the time we were in middle school, teachers and coaches would always get us confused. I'm fine with that...confuse me with someone this beautiful and I might not even correct your mistake!

Nick...what can I say? I think we have a connection that's hard to describe. There's no one like you and no one will ever be able to make me laugh the way you do. I still have the senior picture you gave me and trust me, I'll keep it forever. By the way, free hugs are a given for you!

Even though this picture doesn't have everyone in it, I think it possesses the feeling we all had that night. Lots of laughter and lots of great memories made!

I'll never forget this past week. I feel so incredibly blessed and I'm actually tearing up at this very moment thinking about all of you that I got to spend precious moments with. Many of you expressed your wishes to come to Hawaii for a visit...my hope is you actually will. I'd love that. And in honor of my soon-to-be home state, I'll leave you with this...

A hui hou kakou...

Go ahead. Google it. :)

"I believe that everything happens for a reason. People change so that you can learn

to let go, things go wrong so that you appreciate them when they're right, you believe lies so you eventually learn to trust no one but yourself, and sometimes good things fall apart

so better things can fall together."

- Marilyn Monroe

Here's to a week of better things falling together...

Happy Monday Dolls!

Things Change...So Do Cities...

"Maybe mistakes are what make our fate...without them what would shape our lives?

Maybe if we had never veered off course, we wouldn't fall in love, have babies,

or be who we are. After all, things change, so do cities. People come into your life and they go.

But it's comforting to know that the ones you love are always in your heart...

and if you're very lucky, a plane ride away."

-Sex and the City

I've veered off course. And I'm about to take another turn off the beaten path.

I'm leaving.

Texas is my home. It always will be. It's my refuge when times are tough. It holds those nearest and dearest to me and I honestly don't know what I would have done without them the past 9 months. When my marriage fell apart, there was no question in my mind as to where I'd go. I know it's cliche, but home really is where your heart is...and Texas will always hold my heart.

But, it's time to move on. I can't live under these wings forever. I've always been a dreamer but I've never been a person who takes chances. That's all about to change. I'm about to pack up my things and take the biggest leap of faith ever. There are times that I wake up in the middle of the night questioning why I'm leaving. Am I running away from something? Have I completely lost my mind?! But, I've come to the realization that I'm not running away from anything. I'm running toward something. Amazing opportunities are out there...you just have to chase them down. Don't wait for those opportunities to come knocking at your door; knock on their's first. Beat the door down if you have to. That's what I'm doing. And trust me when I say...it's absolutely terrifying and exciting all at the same time.

After months of wrestling with ideas of where to go, I've finally narrowed it down to two places. Two amazing places. Two places I love and adore.

...Los Angeles being number one. This one kind of fell into my lap. I've always dreamed of living there but never considered it to be a realistic option. I mean, c'mon...Tinseltown?! Really?!

Yes, really. There's a possibility of an amazing job...a DREAM job. I don't really want to go into detail because it hasn't officially been offered yet, but if you're the praying kind, please please please...send one up for this one! I should hopefully be hearing something about it in the next few weeks and I'm crossing my fingers that it's the option that God has in His plan for me.

Okay, onto option number two. If LA isn't in the cards, I'll be shipping my car and taking as little clothing as possible to Honolulu. Hello, Waikiki! When I say I love Hawaii, I mean I really looooooove it. It's probably my favorite place I've ever been. Can you say PARADISE? That's exactly what it is. Sand, sun, water, fresh fruit, beautiful flowers, surfing, tanning, pina coladas, grass skirts, luaus, perfect weather, aaahhh! I could go on and on. I have family that lives in Honolulu and they have so graciously opened up their home to me as a stepping stone. I've slowly been looking at jobs and applying for a few in preparation if LA doesn't work out. I'm not gonna lie, yall...Hawaii would be pure fun. Yes, I'd work. Yes, I'd pay bills. But, it would be a dream come true. How many people can actually say they've lived in Hawaii?!

So, there you have it. It's one or the other. Only time will tell. Honestly I don't know where I'll end up. July seems like a lifetime away to find out but I'm making a solid attempt at being patient...something I'm not very good at. What I do know is this: either place is a decision based solely on me. It's been a long time since I've been selfish and done something to make myself happy. I'm finally at a point in my life where I'm able to do that. Some of you may disagree or might think I'm crazy. I don't care. I'll just think of you when I'm laying on the beach in Malibu or in tropical paradise.

My closing thought goes back to the quote at the beginning of this post. Of course I'm going to be heartbroken to leave my family and friends here. Each of you have been my rock at some point over the course of the last several months. Whether it be a listening ear or someone to lay around the pool with...you've all been there in one way or another and I will forever love and appreciate you for it. Sadly, I know I'll lose some friends over this move. People lose touch...it's the nature of the beast. But, what comforts me the most is knowing that the ones I truly love will always be a part of my life...and if I'm lucky, just a plane ride away...

H5D...

High Five Drew.

It's a phrase we use so often since losing our sweet boy. My Aunt Hazel coined this phrase during her tribute to him at his funeral in 2007. Drew was amazing at everything he did; whether it be playing golf , playing washers or breaking hearts...hence the term "high five Drew."

My family hosts a "Drew Memorial Washer Tournament" every Memorial Day weekend. Playing washers was one of his favorite things to do, and of course, he usually won with ease.

This year was the first time I was able to attend, and I'm so thankful I made it. Not only did my partner and I win (he totally carried our team...most of my washers ended up in the grass), I got to spend special moments with those I love most. Some weren't able to make it, and they were truly missed. Hope you all can make it next year. I'll be there, defending our championship trophy!

Here's some pictures of this weekend...and a few extra that help tell the story...

Here's a few of us as little ones. We were adorable. This was a family reunion in 1988.

Drew is in the light blue shirt in the back. I don't know why we're giving the 'thumbs up' sign...and that shirt I'm wearing is hideous, but whatever...

Here he is...living in Los Angeles and breaking hearts I'm sure.

Me and Drew's younger brother, Dave, posing with the trophy.
Too bad his team lost. Ha!

A balloon release is a tradition my family carries on for Drew. I believe he started this on his UT graduation day. And since we lost him, when we get together to celebrate his life, we each write him a note and send a bouquet of balloons into heaven...

Right before we let them go...

Annnnnd, they're off!

I started out with Drew's name written across my hand for good luck. Lord knows that me and throwing washers don't mix, so I needed it. Later in the day, I wrote my oldest brother's name down as a good luck charm. He's off being GI Joe and protecting this amazing country of ours...I wanted to include him somehow, and my creativity came out in permanent black marker :)

My partner and me. WINNING :)

Not only did we get to take the trophy home, we won some cash too...perfect ending to an already perfect day.

Much Love...and...H5D :)

Friday Favorites Part Dos

I am beginning to love Friday afternoons. Work may drag on for what seems like an eternity, but I've enjoyed coming up with my list of favorites this week. So, here we go. And no laughing.

Favorite Song to Work Out To:

Britney Spears...Til The World Ends.

Anyone who knows me knows I'm obsessed with Brit. I can call her that because we're besties. Seriously. I've been a fan since junior high and knew she'd bounce back after

The Head Shaving Incident. She's Britney and she kills it. Put it on repeat and you'll burn that lunch right off.

Favorite LA Designer:

Lauren Conrad. I adore this girl. She made The Hills watchable and has a fabulous new line. Her designs are so California-esque and easy to wear.

Check out her new line, Paper Crown, and buy something:

www.laurenconrad.com

Favorite View:

Makapu'u Point- Honolulu, Hawaii.
This is a cell phone picture. No joke. This was from the peak of the hike and unless you experience it firsthand, a picture can't do it justice.


Favorite Summer Cocktail:

Raspberry Lemon Sorbet...courtesy of InStyle Magazine. If Gwen Stefani endorses it, then you really can't go wrong. Have at it:

- 1/2 oz. simple syrup

- 1 oz. fresh lemon juice

-1 oz. fresh raspberry puree

- 1/2 oz. Toschi Lemoncello

- 1/2 oz. Pallini Raspicello

- 1 oz. Belvedere Black Raspberry Vodka

- 1 oz. Belvedere Cytrus Vodka

Combine ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and shake. Strain into a chilled glass.

Top with fresh blueberries and vanilla lemon foam.

Vanilla Lemon Foam Ingredients:

- 10 oz. egg whites

- 8 oz. Trader Vic rock candy syrup

- 3 oz. Licor 43

- 3 oz. Toschi Lemoncello

Add all ingredients into a dessert whipper, shake and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Shake again before serving.

Expensive drink, but wellllll worth it.


Favorite Kardashian:

Khloe. Hands down. She makes no apologies for who she is and encourages women to

love themselves, no matter what shape God created you as. She's also hysterical..just watch her show on E!


Favorite Lip Gloss (of the moment):

Dior Lip Polish. It's to die for. I bought mine at Sephora, but any high-end beauty

retailer should carry it. It plumps and shines, but doesn't sting. Praise God.


Favorite City:

Austin. By far. Definitely a favorite place to visit, but I'd get into way too much trouble

if I lived there. You want live music? It's here. You want fabulous and trendy bars? They're here. You want endless outdoor activities? Here. I recommend Barton Springs. Killer spas? Also here. Head over to Barton Creek Resort & Spa and you won't be sorry. Also in Austin? My beloved Texas Longhorns. Hook 'em.

Favorite Inspirational Person:

My oldest brother. He sacrifices so much to fight for this country and doesn't get near enough credit. I cherish our friendship more than anything and am so proud to call him mine. I can go to him with anything and he'll give me the best advice he can, even if he has to put me in my place while in the process. He's an amazing husband and father...and somehow maintains his graceful demeanor through it all. Oh, and he goes skydiving with his favorite sister. :)

The above picture was taken about 6 years ago and it's still one of my favorites.

Here we are back in 1985. Obviously, we had a special bond from the very beginning.

Love you, bro. Give 'em hell.

Happy Weekend ya'll! Relax and enjoy it!

And I Said What About Breakfast At Tiffany's...

"I believe in pink. I believe that laughing is the best calorie burner. I believe in kissing...kissing a lot. I believe in being strong when everything seems to be going wrong. I believe that happy girls are the prettiest girls. I believe that tomorrow is another day and...I believe in miracles."

-- Audrey Hepburn

Not only was she beautiful, she was pure genius. This quote describes me perfectly. I don't care what you believe in, but find something that makes your heart flutter and makes you happy. Believe in love when it feels difficult. Believe in fate when it's pushing you in a direction you're scared to go in. Believe in change when you feel stuck. Believe in your friends because the ones you love and cherish the most will be there for you when you don't believe in anything at all.

xoxo.

Pure Coincidence?!

Blogging is the last thing on my mind this week, but I just couldn't resist sharing this.

CANNOT. STOP. LAUGHING.

Headed out for a sweet little getaway for a few days...Happy Weekend!!

Sunshine & Summertime...

"Summer is where the girls go barefoot and their hearts are just as free as their toes."

- unknown

Summer is here. At least for us Texans. The high on Sunday is 100. And it's only the month of May. Reeeally?! That means by July we'll all be bronzed beauties and wishing for some cooler weather. Summer is my favorite time of year...somehow it takes me back in time and reminds me of my childhood. The days when I actually had a summer break...this meant late nights and sleeping in...every. single. day. In keeping up with "Friday Favorites" (thank you Lauren Conrad for this most fabulous idea), here are a few of my favorite summer memories...

- Boating on Lake Travis with family. I was the only girl among 6 boys, so tubing was like an extreme sport. I swear they would all see who could knock me off the tube the fastest.

- Summer camp. Why can't we continue with this tradition as adults?!

- Baseball. Fun Dip. Cherry Coke. --- 'nuff said.

- Summer Blockbusters. Why can't Hollywood recreate some of this hysteria?

- Ice Cream Trucks. I still get a sting of nostalgia when I hear one and subconsciously start searching for change.

- Summer Concerts. I once camped out on the streets of San Angelo (don't ask) to get front row seats to see 98 Degrees in concert. Don't judge.

- Mud fights. This home video is still one for the record books. Having twin brothers at this particular point in time was not fun. Especially when their grubby little hands were full of dirt and mud and God only knows what else. Sick.

- Camping. Now, before you get too impressed, I'm not talking about sleeping in tents out in the wilderness. No thank you. I'm talking about traveling in a plush RV with my grandparents.

- BBQ's. Brisket, smoked sausage, homemade potato salad, baked beans & sweet tea. Your life is truly not complete until you experience this in Texas.

- Swimming until my fingers and toes turned into prunes. These days, the pool is only good for one thing, and that's laying out. You actually want me to get in the water?!

- Schlitterbahn. OMG. If you've never been, I highly encourage you to go. I went every summer until I was about 12. Soda Straws anyone?!

- Six Flags. Fiesta Texas is my absolute favorite. My crazy aunt once stuffed my cousin's shoes with extra socks to make him taller so he could go on The Rattler. Remember this trick, it actually worked and he didn't fall out. :)

- Slumber Parties. Ice Cream. Chick Flicks. Laughing until my stomach hurt.

- Bluebell Homemade Ice Cream with chocolate syrup.

- Washer tournaments in Austin. My cousin Drew would win...every dang time.

- Lock-Ins at church. This was usually a great excuse to stay up all night and play basketball and run around like heathens.

- Lemonade Stands. I think my best friend and I tried it once or twice but quickly realized that playing in the backyard was much more fun.

- Water Wonderland. All you Midlanders know EXACTLY why this is a special memory.

- I think my favorite thing about summer was getting to spend so much time with my family and friends. Regardless of what we were doing, looking back, it doesn't matter. The best moments came from the memories we created that will never be forgotten...

Every Goodbye Makes The Next Hello Closer...

"Don't be dismayed at goodbyes. A farewell is necessary before you can meet again; after moments or lifetimes, is certain for those who are friends."

-Richard Bach

Thought I'd share a few pictures from one of the best going away parties I've ever been to...

Great Friends + Good Food & Tequila = Epic Friday Night.

Yay for group shots :) This isn't everyone...there were a few stragglers, but this will have to do...

Gonna miss this girl to pieces. She's just as beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside.

Friends for about 20 years...the older we get, the more fun we have.

Fun times...

Deuces up?? Don't ask...

One of my favorite people in the whole wide world. I can always count on my stepbrother to never take a normal picture. I think this was our 3rd try :)

Blame the pageant days for the foot-popping problem. I don't know why...it just naturally happens when a camera is in front of me. Thanks, Tonya for playing along :)

Mexican food, Coronaritas and a West Texas sunset. Perfect ending...or maybe a

perfect beginning...

Good luck Tonya. You are loved and will certainly be missed!