The older I get the more I realize how life is such a world-wind. I remember when I was 5 years old and I wished so badly that I could just make it to 28 so I could be like my mom and dad, have little babies, and be really happy.

Except, I’m less than 7 years out from 28 and I literally cannot handle the idea of “only making it to 28”. I have so much I want to accomplish. When I was younger, I remember thinking, when I get older I’ll make my dreams come true. Some of them came true when I was younger such as: winning pageants, getting straight A’s and finishing HS with above a 4.0, going to Mizzou, buying my first big girl car, and others. Yet I still have even bigger and more complicated dreams that I am on the cusp of reaching and achieving.

After the loss of my Nannie last May, I realized that your life can literally end in the blink of an eye. Then more than ever before I realized how special and how quickly life can pass you by if you do not run with the wind. I realized that it was my duty to stop being scared and start challenging myself.

I started challenging myself to never leave words unspoken. Say what you feel to those who you love, those who support you, and those who have your back. Laugh and love with your friends, spend the night out, and eat the Andy’s for the second night in a row. I learned to stop being so scared and so uptight; while I am still anxious about a lot of things, you’ll never know if you can get the things done tomorrow so do it today because tomorrow isn’t promised.

I learned to really give everything my all, even when I’m tired. Yet my favorite part is learning to have those candid moments in life, every day of your life. Start embracing your goofs, your quirks, and whatever it is that makes you passionate. Those sometimes-unnoticeable moments of laughter with your family or with your girlfriends really are what are most important.

Stress less and enjoy life more. As easy as it is, its easier to do more, give more, and love more. Stop waiting as if your dreams, wants, or goals are going to hand themselves over. Like Nike, “just do it”.