Nineteen

A year ago, I was trying to carry all the stuff my mom sent me for my 18th birthday from the mail room to my dorms in Melbourne, Australia. This included a huge wooden crate of fruit (this took two people to carry), an Oreo birthday cake, and a care package from home. I had just started my first semester of college in an entirely unfamiliar place, but my birthday was able to bring some sort of familiarity. 

It's interesting thinking back to the person I was just 365 days ago. So many things have happened thus far that has shaped me, changed me, and made me into my now 19 year old self. I think the most important thing I've learned the past year however, is to truly appreciate the people who have surrounded and supported me throughout my life. I can't help but want to dedicate all the celebrations for my birthday to them. Because without the best friends and family constantly having my back, I would not have the courage or strength to strive to be my best. 

So, to those who have stood by my side through all my ups and downs and my weird and crazy schemes, thank you for still sticking by me. It means so much and I am so enormously grateful.