Giving Thanks to the people I love ... and Brandon Walsh

As I spent Thanksgiving day driving from Nashville to Boone, North Carolina, my mind was consumed with how thankful I am for the life I live.  More so though, how this life I live would be impossible without the people surrounding me.  I've been wanting to do a post on my time leading up to my departure, specifically on my family and friends, so allow me to go on an this after Thanksgiving tangent...

For my family, both in Pennsylvania and Arizona, who allow me to love so hard it hurts.  I'm a firm believer in people are a direct product and reflection of their environment, and I wouldn't be who I am without my parents and my brother.  It's a beautiful thing when you finally grow up and realize that your parents are quite possibly the greatest thing on this planet.  I cherish my parents.  They bring such different qualities to the table that blend in to this foundation that I envy, I envy it in a way that makes me thankful they found one another.

For my brother, who I've admired my entire life, even through the constant abuse.  He still makes me laugh more than anyone else I know.  For my sister-in-law, the one person who could tame him and give me the two most insanely adorable little monsters.

For my Grandmother, who was and still is the rock of our entire family.  I'm thankful for her giving me such an incredible family and showing me the way to live a beautiful life.  She truly is the biggest inspiration driving me on a daily basis.  I'll never eat another pierogi, chocolate chip cookie or meal as good again...

the infamous Charlene and Bill

Jeremy and Elly



Monster 1 and Monster 2



Gunner and Bella



thankful I can hold this ridiculous picture over his head for the rest of his life


For a group of friends from home that are unforgettable and passionately patriotic.  The beauty in watching a final product of such different personalities and traits shine.  For my best friend Julie, who has taught me what it is to be a true friend through love, respect, patience, compassion and constant support.  I'm truly blessed to be direct reflection of this group of people, many of whom I've known for 20 years.  There's something to be said about those who accept you and welcome you for who you are.  Simply irreplaceable.

Now let me sort through pictures for the next hour to find ones that won't incriminate us all, specifically future PTA president and politician Todd A. Lubas...

Todd this is the only picture I could find...

For the group of people I was truly blessed to meet in college and spend every day with, for playing an integral role in being a part of me through the years I developed as a human being most.

Another long shot on non-incriminating photos...


For Britni and LCook, the first two faces I saw when I stepped foot on campus at 18 and the
reasons behind meeting an amazing group of people in Atlanta, a place I will forever consider a home.

For Kelley, who opened up my eyes to a life with dogs and who's mother continues to inspire me through her selfless work of rescuing and fostering dogs

For these three animals, allowing me to be an honorary Hokie during my days at Tennessee. 

For my favorite sisters and very dear friends Lisa and Jess, you bring out the best in me.
Thank you for keeping me grounded over the years and making Nashville my second home.

For Jess Milewicz, the life behind my favorite college story ever.
 Beyond being hilarious, she's incredibly spiritual and it's always eye opening to be in her presence.  Thanks for this lovely dinner on my through town :)

 
 

For Raquel, Jenna and Ashley...

And finally, for Emily, this kindred spirit I met over five years ago, who's outlook on life changed me.  She's an original, true to herself and to the things she loves, answers to no one but loves everybody.  The person who has most opened my mind and my spirit to a different world, a world without boundaries and a world with some pretty awesome music I would never have known.  However the stars aligned on this one, I'm grateful. 



A laughable flashback to the last time we crossed the country together in 2007

For the overly generous individuals who chose to contribute in support of this journey and to those of you who graciously follow, I am beyond thankful.

For everyone out there who stands up for the rights of others, who only see equal, who help one another and who want to make this world a better place for the generations to come... may we all continue to love and inspire one another.

Love from a Charleston Starbucks,

Erin

Less insightful comments below:

I'm very thankful to couchsurfing.com for introducing me to Meira and her friends in Boone. There's a lot to be said about someone who not only hosts a stranger in his/her home, but also prepares a delicious vegetarian Thanksgiving dinner upon arrival. Thanks Meira!

Ridiculous things I'm currently thankful for include: soy lattes, my iPad, old 90210 episodes, this Sara Bareilles music video and Ellen finding Sophia Grace