Good Apples

Last week I sat down and watched the news…sadly it was the first time in months. 

Wow! It was intense, to say the least. The first story was about a 9 yr. old being shot in a drive-by and the next was on a 93 yr. old man being jumped and carjacked. There is so much bad in this world, that it can be classified unfathomable. 

I understand there is evil in this world and I am not naive to what happens around me. 

However, if I were sit around and dwell on this negativity it would eat me up like the monster that it is. 

So I am challenging myself to look inward... & focus on the positive in this world and in my life. 

Throughout life we either have or are going to encounter bad apples. These are people who let the negativity control their lives and ruin others. 

We can't fall victim to the rotten fruits but overcome and persevere the negativity. 

It is easy to let the bad apples' thoughts and actions affect our thoughts and actions. The hard part is standing up to this negativity and dust your shoulders off (jay-z voice). 

Do you ever get so inspired that you feel like doing something unimaginable (at least for me) like running a marathon or winning a national contest? I LIVE FOR THAT FEELING. 

Here is a little list of somethings that will help keep the bad apples away: 

• Always Wear A Smile
• Not the creepy, forced smile but a genuine, warm smile. People will naturally feel more relaxed and comfortable around you. It will also make you feel better. 
• Remember Your Worth 
• A lot of times we undervalue who we are and over value what we are not. Take a moment to tell yourself 5 things that you truly appreciate about yourself. Be so secure in yourself you can just laugh it off when you hear other people's opinions about you. 
• Clean Up
• Take an hour (for me 4) and clean your room. I'm talking vacuum out and sweat dripping' cleaning. Make sure you dust off those books and windex your window to let the sun in. 
• Perform A Random Act of Kindness
• Random acts of kindness are the easiest ways to feel better about yourself and the world around you. It can be as easy as holding the door open for someone or calling your grandmother.

Next time you get down from the negativity remember that you never know who you could be inspiring…

an ode to al

 Some people look up to movie stars and some people admire athletes but I have always seen my little sister, as my role model. 

I wish the world had more people like Alex Stern. 

"Side by side, or miles apart…..We are sisters, connected by the heart"

Al, 

I can't believe you are moving over 1000 miles away from me and I will not see you until Christmas. It all seems so surreal and I still think that I can just pop in your room and you'll be there cuddled up with Tucker or Butter. 

It is funny that when I was younger I did not realize what an amazing gift it was to have to a sibling, especially a sister like you. They are someone to grow with and to share your struggles, joys, failures and triumphs with. Throughout your entire life you have attracted success and radiated positivity. I know you will do the same in this next exciting chapter of your life.  

Something that I have always admired about you is that you are able to make people feel like they are the only the one in the room. No matter what you make anyone feel special and important. It is a gift that people can't help but love about you. You are able to bring out the best in everyone you meet. You have such a big heart that is able to love without judgement or fear. 

To be honest, I have always been envious of the fact that you are completely yourself. You are not afraid to show people who you really are. You are quirky, genuine, loving, gentle, strong, determined and beautiful. 

You are my better half and I couldn't be more proud to call you my little sister. Always remember that if you fall I will be here to pick you back up. All of my best memories in life are with you and the stories we have together are priceless. You have taught me so much about the beauty of life. 

I am so proud of you that you are chasing your dreams. I can't wait to see everything that lies ahead of you in this wonderful life of yours. 

Our paths may take us in different directions but the bond we share is unbreakable. I am so lucky to have such an amazing best friend like you to be there for me the rest of my life. 

I want to watch you graduate, to stand by you as you get married, squeeze your hand while you are poppin out babies and play bingo with you when we are old and wrinkly. 

Never forget how special and gifted you truly are. 

I love you unconditionally! 

Your big sis, Tay 

Please watch this slideshow to get a glimpse of what a special person Alex really is:)