Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and even though all the election riots and wildfires are pretty interesting to talk about, I thought I'd write a quick appreciation post. Everything and everyone mentioned below has influenced me to be who I am and to love hat I do. The love and gratitude we give to the people around us is so important, and I am more then blessed to be surrounded with people who give me endless love and happiness.
1. My Family
To put it simply, mi familia is amazing: they are so supportive, loving, generous, and overall just a beautiful energy of optimism and laughter in my life. Every time we all get together for the holidays or birthdays, new memories and stories are shared. And even though time passes and stormy waters may surface, we all remember the love our family is blessed with and that family will always be there for you.
2. The Equestrian Reserve and its many Four Legged Friends
Horses have been a part of my life since I was a little girl. I grew up riding and taking lessons at several barns until I found one that stuck: The Equestrian Reserve. I've gone from the average, beginner student to an instructor (and I couldn't have asked for a better job!). I get to work with kids who have this desire to learn and a true love for these beautiful animals. All of the horses there have given me guidance as a rider, an instructor, and as a person (even the countless times I have fallen off or gotten stepped on have been worth it). And a huge thank you goes to all the friends I have made at the barn, I couldn't be more proud to work at such a passionate and loving place!
3. My little Buddy, Seester, and Little One
From oldest to youngest: The rule maker, the reason for the rules (hehe that's me), the exception, and the "I don't follow the rules because I'm fabulous". But in all seriousness, I'm glad I got to grow up in a household where I got to watch old Christmas classics with these knuckleheads. Nothing makes me happier then seeing my siblings succeed in the things they love to do, I love you guys!
4. Jill and Hannah
Holy moly this is a #tbt and I could talk about them forever, but I'll keep it simple. These two weirdos have made me laugh to the point of crying. They have seen me at my best and my worst, and they continue to love me unconditionally. From the Savannah trip in middle school to Labor Day Weekend camping trips, to never ending surprise birthday parties...I couldn't be more thankful for these two.
5. Sophomore Squad/J-Crew
Ah man, these girls are my motivation. Each one of them is so beautiful and unique, it's so hard to find words to say "thank you" when these girls shaped me into the person I am today. High school isn't so bad when you have a group of gorgeous ladies who slay everywhere they go! I could go on and on, but I think you guys know how much I love you <3.
6. NYC Squad
Ash, Laur, and KHall. My heart, my mind, and my soul. I don't know what to say other than I love you. Our little prayer circles before each show, our crazy times rooming together at ThesCon or NYC...I can't wait to make more memories with y'all.
7. 5362 Officers
All of them make my heart so happy. I can't believe how close we have gotten this year and I wouldn't change a thing. To all the senior officers: thank you for inspiring this troupe and pushing us towards success, your leadership is greatly appreciated. To Sarah Kline, girl I LOVE YOU: I've enjoyed every second of being a Jr. Officer with you, and I'm so incredibly grateful for your friendship and support.
9. Troupe 5362
My family. My crazy, beautiful, unbelievably talented family. You inspire me to do what I love most. I could write an entire book on how much you all mean to me with the first chapter just repeating "I love you." You are the reason high school is so memorable to me and you are the reason that I chose to pursue something that I love. And to Mrs. Smithwick and Mr. Grizzle, thank you for everything. I love this troupe. Keep it trill.
10. Bdaise
Hey, kiddo. In case you didn't know, I love ya a whole lot. Thank you for being you. As I finish this article filled with love and gratitude, I "send all my lovin' to you". <3
Again, I wanted to take this opportunity to send some love and appreciation to the people I care about. It is so important to love and appreciate the people you have next to you, especially the ones that show you love in return. Thanksgiving is here.
Make sure to spread the love. <3
