Chi-Town, You are Getting a Good One!

Friday is quickly approaching, which means you are one step closer to embarking on a new journey away from home. Although home has always been a place to me, your brother reminded me that home is not a house, rather something that you carry with you in your heart no matter how far away you may go.  Wise words from 18 year old Griff that made me look at life from a whole other perspective. I know your journey will come with all new adventures, and I am so excited to experience it through you. I have no doubt that you are prepared, and I cannot imagine the excitement mixed with a little bit of nervousness that you must feel. I admire your bravery and determination to follow your heart. You will definitely leave your mark on Chicago.

Share yourself and your talents with others. Give back and give often. You have so much to offer in this world. Let others lean on you for advice, but don't ever let anyone hold you down. It's okay to change your mind and walk a road that you hadn't envisioned. Life is full of twists and turns, and sometimes you find a better path. Trust your gut. Don't ignore the quiet voice that emanates from within you. It holds great power and will never let you down. Trust your intuition, and be courageous and listen to what it is saying.

It's time to explore! Go out and see the city. Catch a Cubs game and be ready to sing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" in the 7th inning. Enjoy a hotdog; although this would never be on my Chicago bucket list! ;) Indulge in a deep dish pizza. I heard Lou Malnati"s and Giordano's are really good! Shop the Magnificent Mile, but don't spend all your money in one place! Go to North Avenue Beach right in Lincoln Park and catch some sun while admiring the city view. Experience the Taste of Chicago in September. It is the world's largest food festival where you will get to try food from some of the best restaurants in Chicago. And don't forget about the Chicago museums! They hold some of the most famous exhibits and collections. There is so much more to explore in a city so grand. I can't wait to see you in pictures taking in all the wonders of your new city.

Know that I will always be on call. I will never be too busy for you. Call, text, and facetime often. It makes me feel like you aren't so far away. Look at yourself in the mirror every day, and smile at the person looking back at you. She is smart, she is beautiful she is confident, she is brave, she is amazing. I love you to heaven and back, Ms.T! Chi-Town, you are getting a good one! Take care of my girl!

Psalm 46:5 God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at the break of day.

 

What starts here, changes the world!

My beautiful Mak! Where as a mom do I begin when I have been gifted with the most precious gift, and the gift that keeps on giving. I will start off by revisiting my original wishes for you that I made as you headed off to the University of Texas. They were to never lose your sense of confidence, always believe in yourself, leave room to grow and learn and try new things, keep your sense of adventure, make new friends and keep in touch with your old friends too, share your smile with the world, live, love, and laugh often. You have far exceeded all that I dreamed for you! 

My new wish for you is that your life ahead is filled with deep loving connections, memory-making moments filled with laughter, and adventures that keep you wanting for more. May your life be filled with love, joy, and satisfaction in all of your endeavors. Stay true to yourself and trust your inner compass to guide you. Listen to your gut feelings and trust your intuition. It will steer you in the right direction. Continue to explore and travel the world with your friends. There is so much to see and do. Don't ever let fear paralyze you. Take risks and chances. I will always be here to catch you if you fall. Surround yourself by positive people that help grow you. Let the people go that suck the positive energy out of you. Don't save things for the perfect time because the perfect time may never come. Tell people you care about that you love them, send the text, and wear the dress. Now is always the time. Trust that God will always keep you safe and guide you in the right direction. 

Let me end by saying thank you. Thank you for remaining authentically you and never letting anyone or anything change you. Your life so far has been so exciting to watch. I have watched you blossom into a beautiful young woman who is courageous beyond belief. As you graduate college and approach this next chapter of your life, don’t be afraid. Everything that you have achieved, endured, and overcome has prepared you for this next step. Look for the beauty, seek out the kind, and remain steadfast in your faith. UT promised "what starts here, changes the world". I have no doubt that motto is true. UT gave you your start; now go change the world! Your contributions will make the world a better place for the people you encounter along the way. Graduation is not the end; it's a new beginning. Embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. Chicago is so lucky to have you!

I love you always!

Mom

P.S. I am always only a phone call, text, or facetime away.

Psalm 139:14 I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth well.