1. I had a childhood; a real childhood. One filled with decorating dollhouses, birthday parties where we played musical chairs and blew out candles, learning to ride bicycles and rollerskate, where we made up dances and made fun of each other - not by being harmful and hurtful, but playful and awkward. Knowing the difference between adult behavior and what was expected of me - as a child.

2. Learning what true love is. And acknowledging that it’s not always glamorous or poetic, but sometimes uglier than we want, and most definitely requires fortitude and tenacity. I’ve learned so much about me through loving then losing and loving and growing. 

3. Not regretting the mistakes of yesterday. It’s the only way to grow.

4. My mother. She’s been someone I’ve struggled to understand for a really long time, but the one constant that I do is her love for my sister and I is what drives her. Everyday. I can only hope to be half the mother she is to my own children. 

5. Meeting so many new awesome people. Simply because I’ve gained and lost many friends throughout, and they’ve all taught me lessons about different parts of myself.

6. My education. Because so many do not have access to the opportunities I have been given as a result, and that fact inspires my work daily.

7. Food! I love it. I live because of it. And it excites me tremendously. I do not believe I’ve experienced any joy that trumps the adventure of an incredible 3-5 course meal, where every dish takes you to a place; one that ignites a forgotten memory, or awakens all 5 senses at once. What an unforgettable thing!

8. My home. It’s mine, it’s his, it’s ours. It’s completely a reflection of us, as individuals and as a couple. Cheers to vacation photography! 

9. Having today. As is. With no changes, because I had another chance to live this great life. And I remain thankful, every day.