Jumping Into 2015

Happy 2015! I can't believe it is a new year already, I blinked and 2014 was over - it's going to take me months to get used to writing 2015 on things ;) I started to look back and reflect on the year I've had, 2014 has been an incredible year and I have so much to be excited and thankful for.  2014 was a year of firsts, a year of discovery and growth, a year of recovery and strength. I have been tested in ways I did not know possible and I have come out stronger and ready to take on 2015 and all it may bring.  

I have been recovering over the last week from back surgery I had the day after Christmas - I know, crazy right?! It is still pretty insane to me too.  It was nothing too major and waking up pain-free after the surgery made it so worth it.  I struggled for 8 months with intense pain from 2 herniated disks in my back and I am so thankful that it is finally behind me.    

Taking things easy and letting myself heal has given me a lot of time to think, in between binge watching Gilmore Girls and The Office.  2014 was not only a great year but it was also one of the most challenging years I think I have ever had, and if I am being honest I did not realize how difficult it was until I took a step back.  It was a year that made me grow and helped mold me into the person I am becoming.  I had great moments and I had some very low moments but I believe I can learn from every single one of them. Life is all about change and growth, it is amazing to think about where I am now compared to just a few years ago.  I am so lucky to have an incredible support system behind me every step of the way.  And lucky to have the faith and strength necessary at times to take a deep breath and keep moving.  

I know that 2015 will be amazing! Every moment may not be perfect but it's the imperfections that make life what it is.  Happy New Year to all of you - I can't wait to see where this next year takes us! 

♥ Caro

Turning Twenty

I have always loved birthdays; they are a fairly big deal in my house. When I was younger it was always so fun to have a fall birthday because that meant I was able to celebrate in class with cupcakes! October is my favorite month, partly because of my birthday and Halloween candy (candy corn – yum!) and partly because the weather is always so perfect. Crisp cool air and the leaves beginning to change, it is my favorite time of the year.

{Delicious cake from Momofuku Milk Bar}

On Sunday, I turned 20… I know, ancient, right?! ;) I have to say, I did approach this year with some hesitation.  When I was little I couldn’t wait to be a teenager, it was all I talked about. Now that my teen years are officially over it is very bittersweet.  I am happy to be moving on to bigger and better things – I hear your twenties are the best years. But I also feel like I am leaving my childhood behind which is terrifying.  It’s easy to get freaked out by a birthday and worry that you’re not doing enough, or doing too much, or growing up too fast, or not growing up fast enough.  Pretty soon all you’re thinking about on a day devoted to you is how much you want the day to end.  After much thought, and a mild freak out over a possible grey hair, I came to the realization that birthdays – no matter the year – are honestly great.  I have never felt so loved and appreciated as I did on Sunday when I received phone calls, text messages, and Facebook posts from friends all over the country. From people I saw that day, to people I haven’t seen in years, with every post and comment I grew more and more excited to turn 20. My friends helped make my weekend incredible – taking me out, enjoying brunch with me, and giving me the most thoughtful gifts that were so perfect and sweet. Looking back, I think I can safely say this has been my best birthday yet. I am excited to see what my 20’s have in store and I am looking forward to continuing this journey with such incredible people by my side!  

{Ringing in my 20's with my favorite girls by my side - and brunch, of course!}

{Looks like 20 isn't so bad after all}

♥ Caro