Day 46 / Forty Years

Today I’m grateful for turning 40 and all the years of my life that got me here and make up who I am.
I’ve loved deeply, lost tragically, and only look forward to more of what life has to offer. I’ve experienced far more joy than sadness and I am so thankful for that. To the next 40!

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Day 43 / Getting Out of Town

We’re leaving for Jamaica first thing tomorrow and today I could not be more thankful for getting out of town.  Between work and all that I went through with my dad, I’ve been going non-stop for months and months.  So as my 40th birthday quickly approached, I could not think of any better way to celebrate than taking a break from reality and getting the hell out of town.

Donovon and I went to Jamaica a couple years ago for our 20th anniversary and loved it.  So when thinking about place to escape to, Jamaica was at the the top of the list.  I desperately need this break and am so grateful for it.

Day 42 / Spending Time with Family

I got to spend some time with my sister and My Little Princesses today, including My Newest Little Princess, Coralyse.  It amazes me how much they all fill me with joy.  I enjoy conversations with My Toot and all the personalities of my little nieces.  I’m grateful today for these precious moments and to have so much love and joy in my life.

Day 41 / Pampering

I received an early birthday gift for a mani / pedi at Embellish and took advantage of it today.  I had such a relaxing time getting my nails done.  It was a very nice way to start my weekend and ultimately my vacation to JAMAICA!  I’m so thankful some pampering today.

Day 40 / Good Leadership

Today I got a call from a former mentor of mine and as we caught up, I thought about how fortunate I was to work with him and learn so much from him.  Our careers took us in different directions a few years back, and although we no longer work together, I continue to take what I learned from him and apply it today.

To me, a good leader inspires, motivates, directs, and guides.  I am blessed to have worked with great leaders in my career, all who have inspired, motivated, directed and guided me.  I’m so grateful for good leadership and all that I’ve learned and aspired to be from it.

Day 39 / My Little Brother

I was 16 years old when my little brother, Christopher, was born.  I immediately fell in love.  He was such a delightful little blessing.  Crestina and I babied and spoiled him like nobody’s business.  He brought so much light to us after such a dark time.

Almost like a mother for her son, it’s been tough watching him grow up.  My Little Brother is now a young man.  It’s hard to believe at times as I so vividly remember this little character who lit up my life the moment he entered it.

I left home to move on with my own life when he was only two years old.  Today he turned 23.  I missed a large chunk of his childhood, but my love for him has been constant.  I’m so proud of the man he’s become.  And I’m so grateful to know him as an adult, to have become closer to him more than ever before, and most of all, that he’s My Little Brother.

I love you so much, Christopher.  I give thanks for you everyday.

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Day 38 / My Newest Little Princess

I have been blessed with My Newest Little Princess, Coralyse Baylin Hardie, who was born today.  At 7 lbs 13 oz and 20 inches long, this tiny little gem melts my heart.  To date, Coralyse has 3 big sisters and 7 big girl cousins who will undoubtedly smother her with love and attention.

I love being an aunt and My Newest Little Princess makes me proud Auntie Anna to niece number 7.  I’m so grateful for my healthy, happy, and beautiful Coralyse.

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Day 37 / Watching the Emmys with Donovon

Donovon and I watched the Emmys tonight and it was just so much fun.  It kind of sounds silly, but we enjoy the same shows and actors and we love good comedy, so it makes sense that we both find the Emmys entertaining.  There were a lot of laughs this year.  And although it may sound like an evening made for old couples, I’m grateful for such a good time with my husband, just us two in our living room, drinking and laughing like two teenagers watching Beevis and Butthead.