40 years

Today my parents celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary. When I tell people how long my parents have been together, they are amazed that two people can sustain a relationship that long. I have seen the work they have put into staying together. I have watched my parents go through extreme hardship as well as immense joy. Through it all, they have had each other. I think the most important thing, in my perspective, that has kept their love alive is mutual respect, friendship and commitment no matter what. They have raised 5 children with discipline, love and humor.

They did everything in their power to give us firm foundations in order to become functional in the real world. This included going to church every week, eating dinner together, discipline, family vacations, visiting grandparents often, taking us to the library and museums, singing songs of hope (folk music galore), lots of hugs and kisses, telling us they love us and forgiving us when we made mistakes. I owe so much to my parents for their leadership and commitment to each other and us. Even for the times I don't agree with them, I am lucky to be able to voice my opinion with them and be heard.

So today I want to say thank you for everything, including 4 of my best friends (Chris, Jenny, Liz and Tyler).

I love you guys!

Looking back and then forward

The new year approached with the same haste the year flew by. There were so many moments that defined 2011 for me. Most of them were in a whirlwind of responsibility, but there were moments that stick out which appealed to my restless, adventurous soul.

-Hiking in 3 beautiful places (Marettimo Island, Central Coast and Torrey Pines)
-Visiting Milan, Budapest, Sicily and Portugal
-Learning more about wine than I ever thought possible
-Visiting my sisters and playing with their children
-Many nights of wine and laughter with the friends who mean the most to me
-Learning how to paddle board in Avila Beach
-Baseball games and Disneyland with my lil bro (Go Giants!!!)
-Learning that home is not a building but definitely where your heart is
-Watching my grandma's mind slip away and thanking God every time she remembers my name when I visit
-Christmas with my entire family...I loved seeing everyone together again

Cheers to a new year! I can't wait to see what 2012 has in store.