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

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

A Thanksgiving Message Just For You!

Hello readers. As you all continue your prepping for Thanksgiving with copious amounts of chopping and seasoning or memorizing the aisles of your favorite department store as Black Friday approaches, I wanted to take this time to wish you and your families a happy Thanksgiving. As I sit here and type, having just washed my hands of brown sugar, garlic, and onions, I wanted to relay this message to you. Now, normally I would do my famous "Top 10"list but this year, I've decided to keep it short and sweet & take in all of my blessings. Because I'm always counting, it doesn't seem as daunting to sit back and reflect. I'm thankful for the basic necessities that aid in my life running smoothly. Having adequate health, shelter, clothing, and the ability to spread my knowledge through teaching high school students is always at the top of my list but I'm also thankful for the friends and family who continue to be positive influences in my life. Their love and words of wisdom are just what I need to help me be better. 

I'd also like to thank you my faithful readers who I keep coming back to see what new and interesting things I have to say. Although my posts may be sporadic, sometimes I don't write from months on end, when I look at the "Pageviews" in the Stats section of Blogger, I am in awe that you all are fascinated and drawn into what I have to say. It means a lot and here's to many more months and years of blogging about sports and entertainment.

As I wrap up, I hope that you all enjoy this day and all it has to offer. No one should be a "Negative Nancy" on a day that celebrates blessings & altruism. "Positive Pollyism"(yes, it's a made up word) should be rampant today so stuff your faces & if you like the New York Jets like me, let's cheer them on :).

XOXO,
Whitney