there's a will, there's a way, and then sometimes there's just a lot of people who make you smile.

I know everyone probably says this or thinks it, but in this case it's true. I have the best friends and family on the planet. For realsies.

After many long, sometimes painful, years, I finally gradated from a university in December. Yet, despite my diploma hanging on the wall it didn't feel "real" until yesterday when I actually heard my name called and walked across the stage to shake my dean's hand. Weird, right? And I have proof! (Well, at least that I purchased a cap and gown, eh?)

Best part of the whole actual graduation day? My biggest fan came :)

And then today we had a party and my kick ass friends and family showed up en mass to not only wish me well but spend their entire Saturday afternoon with me. For those of you who read this I am incredibly grateful and only sorry that I couldn't spend quality one on one time with all of you today. I am honestly surrounded by some of the most caring and generous people in the world and there are not enough words to describe how awesome y'all are.

And after two days of excitement I am completely exhausted. It's time for some wine and some z's, and possibly some hair ball medicine because my cat is shedding so bad that I know there is no way to avoid the thought that I am ingesting more than I'd like to imagine. Barf.

Today we remember while moving forward

Today? is Veteran's Day. A day to honor and remember all of those before today and currently who have fought to defend the freedom that we so enjoy. Today, I thank you Rod, Dan, Robert, Joshua, Scott, Frank and any whom I cannot call to mind, because you have made a difference.

On a day like today it seems fitting to try to think positively, which has not been one of my strong suits these days. It's hard to see the small joys around you when you're constantly worrying about the future and where you're going to end up. I stumbled upon THIS blog post and found that it warmed my soul a little and brought a smile to my face. A genuine smile.

So despite what you're going through, despite the pain or suffering or sadness that you might be feeling, remember that you are worthwhile. You are something. And you are special. These are words that even I forget and need to remind myself from time to time. Enjoy today, give thanks and remember.