Welcome to all, and to all are welcome.  

It’s that magical time of year again full of beautiful colors, crazy costumes, delicious foods, and of course pumpkin spice. This is truly a special time of the year. I think back to a year ago and remember how hard it was spending this time so confined. That being said, I hope everyone finds something special to do during this incredible time, and I would encourage you all to find a way to give back as well. Me and the business I work for are planning to donate an entire thanksgiving meal to a family in need and have started our fundraising plan. It is one of the best feelings in the world being able to help others. I think it is that reminder in life that we all need to really understand that so many things in this world are bigger than ourself.

In addition to everything that is amazing about this season, this time of year deserves celebration for another reason as well. We are halfway through our semester! I want to commend all of you for making the progress you have made thus far. I am fully aware that this process is not easy, migrating through school, with work and other responsibilities mixed in as well. However, despite these obstacles you have been able to answer the call every single time, and I could not be prouder to say I am a member of this determined and resilient Shady Grove community. So as this semester continues, remember that this no limit to what you can do and all this immense amount of effort that are sacrificing now will all work out for your benefit in the end.

I want to personally thank you all as well. Through this blog you have given me an opportunity to reflect and connect with myself on such a deep level. These past few weeks have not been the easiest for me. Have you ever felt like you’re just standing still in life, going through the motions as they come up? I have been feeling that way lately. I felt like I have put so much time and energy into my studies, my work, everything really, but I have not seen the results that I would like. It can be very disheartening being in that position. However, I remember that although what I do may not be perfection, it is progress. We are all on this transformative journey and different phases of that journey will move at different paces. I had gotten so accustomed to counting laps, that I didn’t pay attention to the steps. It is so crucial to remember that no matter how big or small, any step forward is an accomplishment. I vowed that from now on, I will work on appreciating the little accomplishments on my journey. As long as you are waking up every day with the goal to be better than the day before, you are on the right path to make all of dreams come true.

So, we are going into this new season ready be better than before, help others along the journey, and complete this semester. Come on say it with me now,

I can overcome anything

I can achieve everything

I will stand for something

P.S. Man this weather is co confusing. In the morning I am bumbled up like a tortilla, just take it all off and dress like I am going to the beach in the afternoon. I am official done with trusting my weather app on my phone.