What I've Learned From Her

Long ago we were little redheaded sisters running around. Whether we were running away from each other after a fight, or running after one another during a game of tag, or at times running alongside each other as we were on the same team in 'kick the can'. No matter where we were running too, how fast, or who else was with us we always found time to sit down with each other and talk. Because we're sisters.

We've been there for each other during some of the darkest, sad and also happiest moments in our lives. Injuries, heartaches, confusion, uncertainty, deaths, we were there. We were raised with great morals all thanks to two amazing and caring parents that always encouraged us and also made sure we knew when we did something wrong. They didn't make excuses for us for our faults, they taught us to learn, grow and move on.

I've learned from my sister the struggles and obstacles that life entails and that you can get through anything as long as you keep your mind open and ask for help. It's something we all are too scared to do and feel that only we can fix our own problems. That's not true, asking for help is key. 

I've learned from my sister the beauty in music. To look past the lyrics in a song and close your eyes to the role of each instrument and how they come together to create something so extraordinary. As she is so talented when it comes to music it was through her talent that I learned this.

I've learned from my sister that every sole is delicate. Every one around us may have secrets, things they're dealing with; however, they do not express those feelings. Someone who may seem angry or even extremely happy, may be hurting inside. That it could be anyone we come in contact with throughout the day, week or in a lifetime and that we can't assume that their external expressions and feelings is what is true and not to jump to conclusions or judge them based off of a few words. To learn about them, talk to them and just listen.

Most of all I've learned from my sister how to be a sister. How to love and know that family will always be there and that is something we just do... it's something we are. 

I love my sister Kelly. 

Let's Be Serious

It's cloudy outside.

The sun is not out, instead it's hiding away.

It's wet.

It's cold.

I hit every red light....

evvvverrrry red light.

One of my nails broke.

We need to buy oil or we'll freeze.

Peanut is acting bazerko!

but... I am breathing...

... and you know what?

I am Happy. 

Life & Changes!

There's been so many changes in my life when I think back to 1 year prior to today. I quit a job which left me with a bitter sweet feeling. I enjoyed working with so many amazing, strong and intelligent individuals; however, I felt everything I stood for was draining from myself. I wasn't me anymore and it was a huge decision to make but looking back it was the best thing I could have ever done for me and my family. 

I began my Photography business. Even though it's 'small' and I'm still starting out I've met so many amazing people and have been able to capture for them some pretty memorable moments in their lives that they'll have forever. Each time I walk away from a session I feel good because I know I did something good for someone else. That my friends is quite an accomplishment!

I found a part time job during the week to keep myself busy as well have a steady income. Let me say, never in my life would I have thought I'd find a place I loved SO much. A place where I feel that I belong, such loving, fun and caring women I work with that watch out for each other, somewhere I learn something new everyday and I can be myself. Also, we do good for others and again... my friends... that is absolutely an accomplishment!

What else has changed this past year? Well, I got adult braces. I love saying adult braces.. okay I got braces. :) It's something I've wanted to do my entire childhood and never did. In a way, I'm glad it's now and not then. I think having braces as a child, I may have neglected my teeth once they were off. Perhaps, I wouldn't have warn my retainer and all the hard work of the doctor would have been done for nothing. Now I'm older, mature and I'm so proud of myself for taking on the challenge. 

If you remember the KT Facts you may remember that I was an on and off again nailbiter. Okay.. this is where I can no longer be in denial and say I'm a nailbiter; however, I'm on the wagon? Or can I say without a doubt that I have kicked the habit? Well, having braces makes it quite impossible to even bite your nails.. that said I have the most beautiful healthy nails that my little fingers have ever seen! I'm very proud that I've gotten past such a nasty habit that I've been struggling with for 28 years.

Lastly, tomorrow I will be going to a dermatologist for the first time in my life. With all of my hormonal issues that you can read [here], there's been a struggle with my skin. I have been just one a of many that deals with acne on their face. Some weeks or I should say.. some days my skin feels and looks pretty good. The rest of the weeks and days in a month my face hurts and I break out. I've been a bit of a stubborn baby when it comes to medication. I always feel that I can find the natural remedy whether it's through diet, vitamins or organic creams. Well, in my case nothing works and this is the last thing on my list of what I despise about myself. I would love to wake up one day and not have to put layers of makeup on my skin to cover up the scarring. Or tons of topical ointments to kill away those nasty blemishes rising through my skin. Tomorrow, I am taking the plunge and finally seeing one. I have so much optimism that it will be a lifechanging event when I step into the doctor's office. 

Well, you can see my summary of this year. My feelings and accomplishments. How can I complain? I really can't. Okay, I have too many bills to pay and definitely not a $1 million in the bank. But I have so much more that money can't buy. I can stand tall and feel proud of decisions and what comes next.

Ahhh... Fall.