We All Have Big Dreams In 2014!

Hello readers! As we anxiously stare at our clocks and calendars, we can hardly wait for the new year. That's right, it's December 31, 2013 and as we bid farewell to this year of triumphs, let downs, blessings, and lessons, let's take a moment to reflect on everything that has shaped and moved us. In order to have a prosperous 2014, we have to analyze our highs and our lows, mark down the mistakes, and make the changes. Are you ready? Are you sure? If so, let's begin!

As I previously mentioned in my Christmas post, 2013 was all-encompassing. I experienced triumphs, tragedy, stagnant days, and yet, through it all, I came out on the other side. I know, it sounds a bit cliché but not all experiences are the same. However, if there were many of you have dealt with similar circumstances, I am certain that you centered yourself and found the strength to move forward. This is the fortitude we should carry over into 2014. The tenacity dwelling within us should emerge and take charge. We just have to keep pushing. 

Before we finally close the chapter on 2013, I want to leave you all with a message of hope from a familiar source. In 1993, Jim Valvano attended the ESPY's and was awarded the Arthur Ashe Courage and Humanitarian Award. Dying of bone cancer, Valvano delivered what would become an iconic speech full of wisdom, optimism, and thought. If hearing a dying man speak so highly of the life that was due to be cut prematurely doesn't inspire you to stop complaining, get up, and make an impact, you've missed the whole damn show. Thank you Jim, for having an enthusiasm for life, having a goal, and willing to work for it. That's just what I'm going to do in 2014 :)


XOXO,
Whitney

A Very Special Christmas Greeting Just For You!

Hello readers! As you take a moment from the overwhelming excitement of unwrapping gifts, gather your friends and family to read this post. Because I know we're all in a rush to eat and continue screaming, I'll keep it short. Let's get into it:

In years past, I would do a Top 10 list telling you all what I've been grateful for during the holiday season. I've come to learn that while lists are fun and creative, it's getting hard to narrow down blessings. I take it as a good thing. My blessings and good tidings have been abundant and as I watch those I love share in the overflow, all I can do is sit back and take it all in. While 2013 has been a trying year for me, a few setbacks and a personal loss, overall, it has been an eye-opening twelve months. The lessons learned will surely carry over to 2014. I am truly ready to prepare the farewell to 2013 and eagerly welcome all that is in store.

As I conclude this post, I wish you, my loyal fans, continued health and wealth. I wish nothing but success for you all and although the storm clouds may threaten to damper your day, week, and month, I pray you find solace and the strength to get up and shine bright. Have a Merry Christmas, Joyeux Noel, Feliz Navidad, and Buon Natale, a Happy New Year and save me copious plates of food :)

XOXO,
Whitney

And Now, The End Is Near & I'll Say It Clear: We'll Miss You Robinson Cano!

Hello readers! First and foremost, how was everyone's Thanksgiving? I can only imagine the love, warmth, and feeling of togetherness as you and your family gathered around the table. Let's not forget the smells of onion, garlic, cloves, sugar, etc. that permeated through the air. My mouth is watering reliving the bevy of food that coursed its way through my body. Before my hunger gets the best of me, let's get into this post.

As we close out another week, rather than the jubilance of the approaching weekend, sorrow fills my heart. I am plagued with a sadness that I thought I would never experience because I was confident that the organization in question would be at the helm and steer the passengers in the right direction. Ladies and gentlemen, I regret to inform you that Robinson Cano is no longer a New York Yankee. Robinson Cano is now a Seattle Mariner and after a hard-fought battle, he is getting his wish: 240 million dollars for 10 years. Apparently you can have it all.

I have spent the entire day trying to vocalize my feelings and every time I feel as if there is a window of opportunity to explain my emotions, I am reduced to tears. Now, let me be clear, these are not obnoxious tears but a few tears to show just how much I'll miss him. Why will I miss him? When Robinson Cano donned those pinstripes in 2005, I was quickly enamored. I vividly remember him wearing a distinct #14 at his first at-bat. While most remember #22 and more recently #24, I made it a point to mark each transition throughout his career. When I play close attention to detail, it ensures that you have me hooked and boy was I hooked on Cano.

We are all well aware about my reverence and obsession for Derek Jeter. Therefore, with Cano's emergence, it came as a shock to those around me, and myself, that I harbored the same respect and admiration for a rookie as I did my veteran captain. Dare I give the newcomer a chance? Absolutely and 9 years later, I am at peace with my decision.

As Cano prepares to say goodbye to New York, the Yankees, his teammates, and fans, I am certain that my love for him will continue as he embarks on this new journey. Robinson Cano, I wish you nothing but the best. Shine bright in Seattle, kid and remember that no matter how long and hard they "boo", you chose to be happy, you saw the life inside it all, and your career will continue to be beautiful like a diamond in the sky.

P.S., if any of my adoring readers would like to pass this on to our 2nd baseman, feel free to :)

XOXO,
Whitney

Top 5 Things I'm Grateful For This Thanksgiving!

Hello readers! I've missed writing to you all. In the midst of living and soaking up a plethora of opportunities that life has bestowed upon me, I thought I'd take a moment, reflect, and enjoy some personal writing. As we look on our calendars, it's hitting us that 2013 is coming to a close and before we can unwrap presents & drink champagne to send off the year, we have to gather around the table and indulge. That's right, it's Thanksgiving! Can you believe that it's turkey time yet again? Let the warm and fuzzy feelings commence! Now, let's get to the nature of this post. Last year, I decided to forgo a "Top 10" list and stick to one long post. Well, I'm bringing the list back. But, instead of 10 things I'm grateful for, it'll be 5. So, let's jump right in, the Top 5 things I'm grateful for this Thanksgiving are:

5. Sports - 2013 has been a trying year for me, in all capacities, and oddly enough, it's been sports that has provided a form of escapism. From the Yankees and there never-ending saga of triumph/defeat to the All Star Game turning rivals into friends for 3 hours to Duke basketball showing promise with the emergence of Jabari Parker, sports has allowed me to center and gather my thoughts while playing coach and GM to the masses. Thank you, guys!

4. Meaningful Friendships - The saying goes, "friends come into your for a season and/or reason" and this year, I've made friends who will surely be in a presence for many seasons to come and I've kept friends whose value continues to climb. It has been through their laughter, listening ears, and increasing optimism that has made an impact on my life. When old friendships and new friendships collide, there is no force that can break our bonds. 

3. Childlike Spirit - There's nothing greater than watching the same Looney Tunes episode of Bugs Bunny giving Gossamer a makeover while saying in a Brooklyn Italian accent, "You monsters make very inter-esting people" and cracking up as if it's the first time it's crossed your path. When everything seems to be caving in, flipping to Cartoon Network and watching Adventure Time is the remedy. If cartoons can find silver linings, so can we!

2. Wisdom- I've seen a lot and have encountered life changing moments and while the majority of what transpired was due in part to what I call"mistakes", I've come to define them as unnecessary/necessary events. What made them unnecessary was their timing but, what made them essential was that I was able to see past the event and analyze it for what it really was. For me it's truly been about the "take-home" message. 

1. In A Nutshell, Everything - No matter if it's compiled into a list, simple message, or holiday greeting, I give reverence to an all encompassing year. Trying or abundantly blessed, I'm grateful for everyone and everything in my life. 

Well folks, that's my list. It is my hope that you use this Thanksgiving to reflect on what your heart sings and what has awakened your spirit. Stuff your faces and be merry!

XOXO,

Whitney

You're 31?! Let's Pop Some Bottles & Have Fun! Happy Birthday, Robinson Cano!

Hello readers! How have you all been? Hopefully, your lives have been a mix of making dreams come to fruition and relaxing to revel in your successes. We here in NYC have been enjoying the fall weather and the foliage. This post is a short one because I just wanted to take this opportunity to celebrate another year of birth for our very own Robinson Cano!

Robinson Cano is off jet setting around Europe and while he's attending shows in London and Paris, I'm holding down the fandom fort and eagerly awaiting the completion of his contract. I could go into detail and present my PowerPoint slide on exactly what the years and monetary amount would be BUT, that's for another post. For now, I want to party rock, eat cake, and dance on tables with Cano.

Once again, Happy Birthday Robbie and may 31 be a year for the history books!

By the way ladies, you know I couldn't conclude without a little gallery walk of our guy ;)

XOXO,

Whitney

Tara Cannistraci Wants The Best Job Around The World! So, Let's Vote!

Hello readers. I hope you all have been enjoying your summer and if you were lucky enough to experience some warmer days, we New Yorkers envy you. As you continue with your everyday hustle and bustle, take a break and read the following message.

Educator, stand-up comedian, and former MLB reporter Tara Cannistraci has decided to take her talents across the globe in the hopes of changing the lives of children. In order for her to see her dream come to fruition, she needs your vote! Below is the official message from Ms. Cannistraci herself. All it takes is you getting the word out to help build brighter futures.

Ok family and friends, I have just applied for the "Best Job Around The World". Literally. 

You can vote for me once every 24 hours (but if you have more than one device - phone, computer, Ipad etc. more than once!)

PLEASE support me (this time vote), as you all always do! You have supported me from sports to stand-up and now this... Up for the challenge? I am! Please feel free to forward to anyone that you think would vote!!! 

If each of you do this every day we can really show them how far a little girl from the Bronx could go! 

Thank you (again) as always!

Tara Cannistraci 

See link below:

http://www.bestjobaroundtheworld.com/submissions/view/6374.

Thank you for all of your support!

XOXO,
Whitney

Respect That! We're Bowing Down, Yoenis :)

Hello readers! It's the 3rd week of July and there's a massive heatwave. While you all are grappling with new ways to stay cool, MLB's All Star weekend has gotten underway and tonight was the 2013 HR Derby. The usual suspects of heavy hitters filled both the American League and National League teams with the addition of new comers. Now, if you're a biased Yankees fan like myself, you placed all of your eggs into one basket and picked AL Captain Robinson Cano to hoist another trophy. Or, considering the All-Star festivities are being held at Citi Field, you tapped into your rational and had NL Captain, David Wright, bringing a ray of sunshine to Queens. Well, I hate to break it to you but, WE WERE ALL WRONG!

Both David Wright, Robinson Cano, and 2x champion Prince Fielder failed to make it our of the first round, :(, which meant the Derby was up for grabs. Others tried to get their names in the big lights but only 2 really put on a show. Yoenis Cespedes and Bryce Harper channeled their inner Beyonce and said "stop the track, let us face facts, you thought we couldn't hit home runs but we're carrying big bats!" Basically, they had something to prove. Therefore, after a lengthy battle, it would be Yoenis Cespedes who came out clean on the other side.

Congratulations, Yoenis. You better work! In honor of your victory, you can appropriately quote another one of Beyonce's one-liners and say "Respect that, bow down haters". Enjoy!

XOXO,
Whitney

39 & Getting Better With Time! Happy Birthday, Derek Jeter :)

HELLO READERS! It has been far too long since I've written you. I apologize for my negligence for the Spring 2013 semester was quite a challenge for myself and my students. Ultimately, their needs won the tug-of-war. Now that things have cooled down a few degrees, I am devoting my time to my most loyal fans.  I'm back in the saddle and it wouldn't be a glorious meeting between us old friends if I didn't write about............. DEREK JETER!

Yes, our very own Derek Jeter has turned 39 and I must say he's advancing well. It's quite difficult to wrap my head around the fact that Derek made his major league debut 18 years ago. Let that sink in for a bit. Next, let's take a trip down memory lane and piece together exactly who we were and what we were doing 18 years ago. I've given it some thought and it's incredible to think that 18 years ago, I was approaching 7 years old and learning the game of baseball from my great-grandmother. I would sit still on the couch, watch the Yankees in amazement, and that's where I had my first real crush. It was Mr. Jeter. 18 years later, I'm still head over heels for that Yankee.

Although Derek is still rehabbing from his ankle injury, I hope he takes a moment to reflect and smile on another year of life. Derek, your fans love and adore you and we cannot wait for you to take the field again. Readers, wouldn't it be divine if he actually played tomorrow as a gift to us?! Ahh, a fangirl can only dream :)

Once again, Happy Birthday, Derek Jeter!

P.S., I couldn't leave my fans hanging just like that so, here are a few photos to make you all giddy inside:

XOXO,
Whitney

Duke, You're Still Elite To Me!

Hello readers. How has your spring been treating you thus far? I for one am excited for 60 degree weather, extended daylight, and my spring coat that has been in hibernation. Now, before I continue, I must apologize for my 2 month absence. Yes, you read that correctly, 2 month absence. Having been very busy professionally, executing a stellar Career Day & various other workshops, it seems I have neglected my faithful crew and for that, I am sorry. Apology accepted? Good because this post is a rather sad one. Don't fret, it's not drowning in sadness but it deals with a loss....a tournament loss.

March Madness is almost coming to an end and we all know what kind of month it is for us diehard college basketball fans. Need a reminder? Well, it's chock-full of bitten nails, shortness of breath, sweaty palms, increased need to curse out our television sets, wings, beer, lines divided, rivalries renewed, and the inevitable team getting knocked out of the tournament. Alas, the latter part goes to my babies, the Duke Blue Devils. After losing in the first round during the ACC Tournament, they regrouped and came back strong for the Big Dance. The Big Three comprised of Mason Plumlee, Ryan Kelly, and Seth Curry, combined forces and dominated. Their lightning power and 3 point ability secured us win after win and allowed us to make it to the Elite Eight. Sadly, that would be the last stop on the tour.

Duke played the Louisville Cardinals tonight and after an emotional first half where Kevin Ware suffered what looks like a career-ending injury and Duke struggling to find its form, Louisville went into halftime with an all-around advantage. Long story short due to me crying, ok ok tearing up a bit, Louisville defeated Duke and is on their way to the Final Four. Congrats are in order to them and prayers for a healthy/speedy recovery for Ware.

So, how do I close this post? I think I'll end by reaffirming my love and admiration for the Duke Blue Devils. I have been a fan since 2000 and that hasn't changed. People knock us down, throw dirt on our name, and yet, we still rise. I am proud to be a Cameron Crazie and equally as proud to call Coach K my leader at the helm. See you guys next year and to my seniors, we're gonna really really miss you. Especially you Seth Curry. Despite my initial dislike for you, you've grown on me & have changed my perspective. Thank you :)

XOXO,
Whitney

You Ready, Bey? Let's Go Get 'Em!

Hello readers! I know it's been quite some time since I've decided to blog and with the new year underway, things have been constantly moving. If you're like myself and millions of fans worldwide, you're gearing up for the Super Bowl and all it has to offer. I'm going to be honest, because my favorite football team is not at the Big Game, I will not be THAT emotionally invested. However, there's nothing like a little Beyonce Giselle Knowles-Carter to fill that void. Our very own King Bey will be performing at the Halftime show and that video was but a taste of what we'll be seeing Sunday. I for one can say that my thirst has been quenched and yet, I still haven't had enough.

Well, during a Super Bowl press conference today, Ms. Bey fought the critics and silenced the haters by singing a LIVE rendition of the National Anthem. Having heard her sing since 1999, you'd think we wouldn't have to put her through such measures to prove her singing chops but alas, she had to warm up her vocals and belt it out. If you've seen the video then I know you've thoroughly enjoyed it.

I don't know how many times or how many ways I can express my excitement for Sunday's performance and no matter how hard I try, I'm speechless. Get 'em, girl!

XOXO,
Whitney