This summer I took some chances.
I learned that some friendships aren't forever.
This summer I met him. Some would argue, but I truly never saw the beauty of his heart & mind and so - I insist that I never knew him.
I realized diversity is beautiful. And easy to accept.
This summer I felt beautiful again, and then I felt inadequate.
I painfully lived without my best friend for two months. I still don't know how.
This summer I longed to be understood...and oftentimes, not.
I fought change with flailing arms and all the stubbornness I could muster - and I lost.
I watched hours of One Tree Hill, my soul food.
This summer I discovered new music.
I embraced family.
I chose to believe in someone.
I, surprisingly, didn't read a single book.
I dedicated myself to my sisters.
This summer I didn't try so hard.
I found inspiration from my deep and contemplative cousin.
I reluctantly but rightfully allowed someone else the freedom to make me happy.
This summer I traveled north, south, east, and west.
I saw things that made me feel like such a small part of the world, and then I saw things that showed me how significant I truly am.
This summer I finally saw a shooting star. In fact, I saw 100 of them.
I took on a role in which I was initially uncomfortable - it was good for me.
I reunited with family that I hadn't seen in 10 years. I will never be able to go that long without them again.
This summer I didn't highlight my hair.
This summer I made art.
I recognized that honesty is optional for some people...I value those who are honest with me.
I watched my best friend fall in love; I watched her eyes light up and heard her voice break as she talked about her future with him. Unknowingly, she instilled hope inside this antsy & romantic soul.
This summer I chose my college, ultimately choosing my future - a big and scary step.
I decided I don't care. While I don't have a place where I strategically fit into this society, I have a place where I fit into my family.
This summer I listened to Sigur Ros, Daughtry, The Classic Crime, Taylor Swift, Matthew Perryman Jones, Tyler Hilton, and Dashboard Confessional.
This summer Ben Rothwell happened to me. My boyfriend, my best friend, and the quiet and steady pulsing music of my life.
This summer I did some embarrassing things:
I watched Mary-Kate and Ashley movies with my bff.
I visited a town where a fictional book takes place.
I got the Jonas Brothers cd and Hannah Montana movie soundtrack.
This summer I found my "first dance" wedding song.
I went to a volcano.
I was spoiled by my boyfriend.
I didn't worry about gas, I just drove.
I saw snow in July.
I watched my favorite movie.
This summer I regretfully and unfortunately didn't go to Texas.
I took part in an epic 2 am slip & slide adventure with my beloved cousins.
I realized everyone on my mom's side is musical.
This summer I trusted. I put myself out there. I relied on Jesus.
"Don't wait, don't wait
the lights will flash and fade away
the days will pass you by
don't wait
to lay your armor down" - Dashboard Confessional
