It's been a while since I've written in this thing, but there couldn't be a more appropriate time. 2005 has definitely been a big year for me. Some quick highlights - Puerto Rico, UVA Graduation and my first real job. WOW ... I even picked my own health insurance this year .. I'm an ADULT .. SIKE!
AnyHOO, I could go on and tell you about the fun things I did or the cool things I saw but what I remember most are the moments of pure, genuine happiness that I've shared with the amazing people in my life.
This year was especially tough for me with all these new things going on. There were moments when I felt alone and lost - moments when I really could not find the strength to understand. I'm truly blessed (even though I haven't realized it quite yet) and although I do not know it, I believe there is a greater good and greater purpose. I pray to God that I may have peace of heart and mind in 2006 and that he gives me the courage to stay true to myself.
Dennis - I know this year was not easy for us, but I'm proud to say we're still as RESILIENT as ever. I'm sorry for all the craziness and criticisms - I really am thankful for your kindness; no one can match your forgiving, caring and generous soul. You're truly amazing and I'm sorry for taking that for granted. Here's to new adventures, new dishes and more trips in 2006! I can't wait for my first serenade :)
Omar - my brotha from anotha motha! I was really sad that you didn't get to spend that much time with us in Puerto Rico and I'm sorry for keeping you up that one night when you had so much work to do the next day - me and my paranoid self. But thanks for ALWAYS looking out for me and Dennis.
Masoud - my lil' brotha from anotha motha. Thanks for teaching me how to swim (sorta) and for letting me get on the boat first when we saw the "shark." hahaha. Thanks for always being level-headed. Even though you think you know everything (I mean there has to be a reason for that big head of yours), you are very insightful. Thanks for the advice and the comic relief.
To DENNIS, OMAR and MASOUD - I owe you 3 a lifetime of thanks. You are all my bestest friends! I can't wait to see what 2006 has in store for us. Cheaper by the Dozen II?! Don't fake like it's not funny.
To Kareena, Joel, Enrico, Josh, Crystal - From family stuff to insurance to life to work to EVERYTHING! Thank you so much for guiding me through the difficult moments of my life. Thank you for reminding me that there are good people in the world and that true friendships do exist.
To my Family - I KNOW that I haven't been the easiest person to live with. I am a hard-headed daughter who definitely needs to think before she talks. I love my sister so much and I don't know how to show her. Girl, if you read this, you know you have always been the greatest inspiration in my life. Even though we're not typically "close," I'll always be here for you.
To you, yea you, the person reading my Xanga, don't think I've forgotten about you. I wouldn't be here without you and I thank the Lord that he gave me that MOMENT to share with you.
Despite the demands and rigors of this fast-paced world, it only takes one MOMENT to leave a lasting impression. So slow down, take a second to leave your mark. I guarantee you, it lasts forever. | 
