Thoughts ...

As far as (romantic) relationships go, I must admit I have seen a lot over the past, say 20 years. That would definitely indicate that I've been on the dating scene for far too long. Many of my friends and I, actually. I can't help but think of Charlotte, from Sex and the City, who says her hair hurts from dating so long. It's a laughable scene and relatable, as well.

At my age, most women I know are married with children. A good number of my friends, both male and female, are still single, as well. Who has it better? The married friends or the single ones? And does someone from each side long, at some point, to be on the other? I know where I stand.

Speaking from the not yet married side, I can confidently say that finding the right person, the right fit, your sole mate, the person God created just for you, can take a lot of patience, meet and greets, happy times, amazing relationships and complete disasters. What keeps us in the game? What keeps us from throwing our hands up and saying, 'Forget it; I'm perfectly happy alone.'? I'm not sure, to be honest. We all long for that perfect fit with the right one. However, no relationship is perfect. Getting to know someone -- really know them -- can take a lifetime. In the meanwhile, if you have found the one you believe you want to be with, there is work that must be done ... Relationships require honesty, nurturing, time to get to know each other. Hopefully, most times will be blissful, but other moments may require work on both sides ... At times it may get so that it may not seem not worth the fight. That's when the questions and prayers come into play. Is this the right one for me? Sometimes, painful honesty is necessary.

When you do find that one that seems to have everything you're looking for, be prepared to go through it all with him/her. Work through the wonderful times, the great times, and the times when it seems a little less than great together. People should be able to talk each other through the insecurities & not fear they will be ridiculed or insulted. Problems will arise, yes. That is part of life. The challenge is how you deal with them -- together. IWhen you do meet that one, you'll enjoy your moments, look forward to the next times you'll see each other and, genuinely appreciate each little thing that you two share... A smile, a joke, a memory, a hug, etc.

In the end, I say this -- if you haven't found that 'one', don't give up. Stay hopeful and prayerful. God has created a very special person for each of us. Continue enjoying each day & working on making yourself your best self. And, if you have been blessed to have found him/her -- cherish that person and your relationship. Make new memories every day. Pray together and for each other ... And remember to have fun --- good times always follow the bad, a rainbow always follows rain.

Birthday Celebration!

Last Sunday, my friends and I were invited to celebrate our other friends children's birthday. This was no ordinary party. We celebrated Amber & Teddy's 5th birthday at Maestro's Catering Hall. Yes, it was a big party with a kid-friendly DJ. All the children were VERY entertained with the games, dancing, and even a conga line.

Amber & Teddy are the sweet twin children of Diana and Teddy, whom we know from work. Teddy is a dean at our school, and Diana works in the city. During the party, Teddy spent time videotaping, as well as socializing. Diana also did some socializing, but she spent more time enjoying the festivities along with the children. It really was special to have been a part of their day. These children, like all children, are a gift from God. This is a precious family whom I am happy to be friends with.

Mr. Crabs

Our newest family member has a unique name. Of course, just by looking at his sweet face, you would never know why we refer to him in such a way.

My newest little love, Ayden, is humorously referred to as 'Mr. Crabs.' At times it can be a chore to calm him down or keep him happy. But when we see his smiling face, we can't help but laugh & love him for who he is ... Crabby and all.

March

I'm glad February is behind us. While there were many birthday celebrations, a week off, and time to spend relaxing, it was also terribly draining at times and left me feeling exhausted and sad.

Now that March has begun, I find myself looking forward to all that this month will bring ... All that the Lord has in store for me.

Spring is not too far off. I'm praying we don't get a blast of wintery weather before the season ends. Hopefully we'll see trees and flowers blooming before we see another snowfall --- in December. :). I'm looking forward to a new season & new adventures.

My cousin, Ally, is coming home to visit for a week from South Dakota. I just remembered that & I honestly can't wait to see her again. I hope we get to spend a few days together. We miss her dearly.

March has LITERALLY just begun. I'm truly looking forward to what's in store. Hopefully lots of fun with fantastic memories.

Dad's Surprise 60th Birthday Lunch

Planning a surprise ANYTHING for anyone is not an easy task. However, today I was able to pull off yet another surprise party. This one was for my dad, as he is turning 60 this Monday. My sister and I began the planning about a month ago, and with the passing of our grandmother we weren't sure if it was still a good idea. However, our mother and aunt both gave the go ahead & so we did!

My family & some of dad's friends dined at La Corsa in Manhattan. The cuisine is Italian & the food was delicious.

We surprised Dad by telling him he was going to a birthday lunch for Justyn since his birthday was two weeks ago & we weren't able to celebrate then. I loved how he really didn't get that the 'SURPRISE' was for him! Justyn had to turn around and tell my dad, 'It's for you!'. VERY FUNNY!

Everything turned out WONDERFULLY and a great time was had by all. I'm grateful that my dad is still in our lives. He is an excellent example of what a father should be. He's always been encouraging and sweet. God gave us His best as far as fathers go. I pray we'll have him for many, many more years.

Training 2012

It seems like I'm always training for a race. This year, training began early because a friend is running his first half marathon at the end of March, and I will run it w him. It's his birthday gift / accomplishment to himself. This morning we will head out for our 8 mile run. I believe it will be good despite today's cold temperature. He's been doing well with the training & I believe that's been encouraging for him. Running isn't for everyone. Since my former training partners are married and not running as much anymore, I'm thrilled that my friend has become my new 'for now' running partner. Not sure if he'll continue to run after this race, though. We shall see. At least this will keep me conditioned for my fall marathon training which will begin in late June. There's something about running that I truly just enjoy.

New Year, New Post

As always, it's been much too long since my last post. Summer came and went, as did the fall. Winter is nearly over, and my life has gone through enough changes to last me through the remained of the year.

Another semester of grad school is behind me, but now the end of my time at Hunter is upon me. Sadly, though, the time won't be finished by way of graduation. However, life happens and we just have to roll with the punches. If we don't, we'll wallow in the whys and why nots. I will hold on to my memories at Hunter ... it was a good time while I was there.

Marathon 2011 was successful and FUN. It was more fun than I've ever had because I had so much support from my family and friends. This year's course, smiling faces and hugs will forever be a special memory. My time was awful due to my foot becoming injured during the race, followed by pain in my knee, but crossing the finish line and making my way to the dinner that followed made up for all of the pain. Of course I do not recall the name of the restaurant, but the food was yummy, and the company could not have been beat.

Four days after my 35th birthday, we welcomed my nephew, Ayden Christian, to our family. My sister went through the LONGEST labor EVER, and I was blessed to be part of the delivery process. It was pretty amazing, to be honest. My nephew is seriously a carbon copy of my sister, and it's disturbingly funny. He is adorable and my sister and Justyn are loving the new addition to their family.

We celebrated our last Christmas with Grandma, as she left us just two short weeks ago. Oh, had we known it would have been the last, how many things would we have done differently? However, the memories we have with Grandma will not leave our hearts any time soon - actually, never.

Now, I'm finishing my February break and working on report cards, grading papers I have pushed to the side, and ordering camp supplies. The year will continue moving day by day ... and I look forward to the new things I will have to write about.