all or nothing.

Be specific.
Desire one thing.
Pursue with a whole heart.
Love justly.
Walk lowly.
Gaze steadily.
Pray.
Seek always.
Open fully.
Abandon.
Listen mindfully.
Speak positively.
Uplift.
Travel globally.
Worry not for tomorrow.
Run.
See as I see.
Thirst.
Hunger.
Prepare.

cheers.

I can't seem to shut off my thoughts to sleep lately. It feels as if every decision to be made is hovering over me, overtaking every last minute of my day... I'm so tired.

I am fully aware that I need to finalize plans and "map out" the next year of my life, but somehow I fear I will make the wrong decision.

Fear.
It's an interesting word that seems to be used so carelessly most of the time. To me, it's like saying "I love you" and not really grasping the depth of the words you speak to someone. I think I'm ready to face those fears and move past them. And yes, I'm pretty sure that is an "easier said than done" statement.
Yep.
Definite about that one.

Here's to many adventures, travels, laughs, and a year full of hope.

Cheers.

do it with a heart wide open.

I was listening to "Say" by John Mayer tonight and it made me think about where I'm at in life right now...

You better know that in the end its better to say too much
Than to never to say what you need to say again
Even if your hands are shaking and your faith is broken
Even as the eyes are closing --
Do it with a heart wide open...

In talking with my mom today I've realized quite a few things. Life is too short to live passively. It is not enough to just live day in and day out -- without taking any chances. I'm tired of dreaming. What will the moment feel like when a dream collides with reality? There are many things I dream about... Some seem so close that the butterflies in my stomach keep growing bigger and bigger. I lose my train of thought and suddenly feel a shortness of breath. Saying "hello" really shouldn't be this difficult, but in the world of Emily -- it is. My heart screams "yes", but it doesn't seem loud enough for my mind to hear...

This is how chances seem to just pass me by. It's time to just take them.
When you love somebody, say it.

I'm ready for my moment.
I'm ready to jump with both feet...

candles and wishes.

I recently turned 21... and by recently I mean last Thursday. Yep, the big 2.1. It was good times. I've decided that I have the most caring and over-the-top friends. All of them. Yes, each one.

The one word I could use to describe my birthday and the weekend to follow it would be overwhelming. It definitely fits the bill. I received gifts simply because I was born. Thanks Mom and Dad.

Let me just say there were two big surprises that could not be topped if attempted.

1.) My friends Misty and Ashley listen. And they heard, numerous times, about my love for a certain perfume -- it's delicious... I am now a proud owner of something made by Chanel. All because I'm an official adult.

2.) Let me preface this with the fact that I have never been to a "tea" before and have always wanted to. My roommate provided the second surprise. Of course a white lie had to be told in order to get me to the Grand Floridian -- yes, I did say the Grand Floridian. Every Sunday a "high tea" is hosted at the Grand Floridian and my roommate made a reservation for us to go. I went with her to Orlando under the impression that she was asked to play the piano for the Gardenview Tea Lounge and I was merely going for moral support. But to my surprise, we were there to celebrate my birthday. It was so delightful and I enjoyed every moment of it. It could not have been a more perfect ending to my weekend. Also, I was given a crown to wear and a cupcake to eat. There was a candle. And yes, I did wish upon it.

We had our tea and then went to visit Disney's Boardwalk. By the end of the night we were all so tired and to top it off we took the ferry back to the hotel. What a beautiful night.

And then there was Jack. He was beautiful and from England. He had the most brilliant accent.

Almost a week after and 3 wishes later, I'm still on cloud nine. Thanks to all for making me feel so special and loved. I could not have asked for a more perfect celebration...

All my love.
G'nite.