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 Special Valentine's Day Message Just For You :)

Happy Valentine's Day readers! I thought that I'd use this space to grant each and every one of you some well wishes and the chance to spread some love. I've been truly blessed with the ability to love and to be loved back so rather than share in the cynicism that many will display, I decided to take a different route. I don't want to spend much time delving into the all too familiar "singles vs. taken" battle because it's time consuming and everyone has their reasons for adorning and/or disliking today. But, I will say that no matter what your relationship status is, I truly hope that you find some time today to smile. For as "commercial" and "phony" as this day may be for some, to others, it's everything. So, this is my request: If you can help it, please don't rain on someone else's parade because you haven't properly healed from your wounds. Don't be tempted to entertain cynicism because it'll be the popular theme for many bitter people today. Conan O'Brien put it best during his final NY show when he said, "I don't like cynical people. This is life and not everything works out. Sometimes, you don't get everything you want".  If you can't resist the urge to stay silent and must vent, try to keep it away from me because I want to enjoy my day. I want to enjoy what the universe has given me: a past to grow from & a bright future to look forward to :)

Happy Valentine's Day once again my darlings!

XOXO,
Whitney

Whitney Didn't Know Her Own Strength

Hello readers. I know this post is long overdue but I'm glad that I've decided to write it. On Saturday, Whitney Houston passed away. I wanted to start out with this video because I truly feel that whenever you're on the verge of crumbling and ready to throw it all away, there has to be something inside of you that smacks you, shakes you, and doesn't allow to break. As Ms. Houston said "your life wasn't built to break". In her recent comeback, she proved that she didn't break but sadly, this woman who graced the world with her powerful vocals has journeyed home and has journeyed to peace.

There is no denying that the world is sad. We see the evidence in the 24 hour news coverage and the multitude of tributes in her honor. I feel especially sad because in my 23 years of existence, I was always reminded that I was named after her because of my father's love for her. Ms. Houston was the celebrity love of his life & when he found out he was having a girl, he grappled between two names but he eventually named me Whitney and gave me the middle name of his mother. I've never had any qualms with this decision because to be named after such a regal icon was incredible. Throughout her troubled years, I was still proud to bear the name "Whitney".  There was no shame in that game. I pray for her family who must find the light in such a dark time. Death isn't easy to handle so while we can't literally lend a hand and/or a  hug, our support will be more than welcomed. As I continue with the tradition of tributes, I leave you with some more  of my favorite Whitney songs that always left me speechless and hitting the relay button. I wish I could post them all but in the spirit of being concise, I'll leave you with a few from my library:









XOXO,
Whitney