A year ago I was in a pretty dark place. I've learned a lot this year. I have gained a lot of insights into myself, learned a lot about life, and had some moments I wish I could forget. I've lost some friends, left some behind, gained some new ones and became my own friend. In between the dark and lonely spots I was blessed with a few brief moments of sheer perfection.
Being an aunt is one of my favorite things!! Spending a week with these guys was fabulous!
Going Lake Winnepesaukee (where my mom grew up and a place I adore) with cousins, aunt, and uncle!
Going to this city, monument, and museum that signifies the resilience and spirit of the American people and the land that I love!
Spending a little bit of time with my uncle, who I never thought I'd get to see again!
Spending an incredibly peaceful day sitting on this beach on Cape Cod, reading a Brene Brown book, and listening to my favorite "Chillaxin'" music! Followed by strolling through the charming downtown of Chatham, MA!
The rare moments when these two want snuggles!
Getting my first tattoo of something that's deeply meaningful to me! An empowering experience for me!
Pulling over in a random parking lot with a stranger and marveling together at the stunning sunset (pics do it no justice) in Sydney, Nova Scotia!
Standing at what felt like the top of the world- Meat Cove, the most northern tip of Nova Scotia!
Standing alone on this beach and watching the sun rise over the water at Cabot's Landing, Cape Breton National Park, Nova Scotia! Maybe my favorite moment on my Nova Scotia trip!
See my very first (and second) moose!
Hiking through the woods in the freezing cold, again rocking out to my favorite "Chillaxin'" music only to come over the hill and see this spread out before me!
Spending the day in this cemetary in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia finding my ancestor's grave. For without them, we would not be!
Taking pictures on the dock of one of the prettiest towns I've ever seen only to look over and see this dazzling full moon!
In between these brief enlightening moments, these are a few of the things I've had to learn:




And finally:



























