This week in Birmingham I have been blessed by an opportunity to reacquaint myself with the things that make me who I am. It has been bliss. And, while I have recommitted to things that used to be defining characteristics of Shelli which needed to be reclaimed, I have also realized how much I appreciate the changes and growth I have experienced in the past three or so years. Only upon stepping and looking back have I really been able to see how formative these years have been. And while I would potentially change many things that have happened to me/that I have done, the one thing I feel 100% certain about is that I have been blessed by every person who has come into my life, either strolling or decisively, during these years. I cannot in this moment think of a single person who has not enriched my life and, while it's truthfully probably the ENFJ in me that seeks the best in every single person, I like to think its because I have good taste in the people I choose to make a part of my life.
So thank-you for the role you have played so far in me. I pray that you will find in me a similar peace and that, if you feel driven to, you reach
out to me for whatever support or love you may need. Being super nice all the time may not be my jam, but love and service are. And honey, I love you too. :)
That being said (sorry for the longest intro ever), I spent some time yesterday reminding myself of the best moments in 2012. Here are the ones I landed on, in no particular order. Cheers if you are involved in any of the following moments. If you were not, let's make some awesome memories this year. :)
Getting relationship advice from my campers at maywood this year.
October brunch with house visitors. Aka how to have a surprisingly alcoholic brunch.
Mad Men party, proof that twenty-somethings love a solid themed party.
AU Singers reunion + Tyler and Jess’ wedding (aka mock WEGP reunion)
Every Wednesday at Brodioke.
Brunch at Café Gratitude
fun. Concert during spring break in Birmingham
My parents being safe through the tornado that destroyed our house. God is so good.
My first day at the K. and all of the following days. :)
The creation of a drink named for me for my birthday. A little tart, a little sweet, a little strong.
Here's to another year where the wonderful days outnumber the bad, where my teacher friends change lives every day, where all of my friends touch lives for the better every day. Where people discover or rediscover their passions and find their calling to service in whatever realm suits them. To a year filled with beauty and quips and positive media experiences and opportunities for growth with as little destruction, of physical and spiritual things, as possible.
Happy 2013. Dwell in love y'all.
