Some Truths

I am a 33 year old woman who sleeps with a teddy bear and I have since age 8. I am ok with this.

I don't silence my opinions. And I do not begrudge others theirs. But don't expect me to agree with you. And don't see it as a character flaw if I don't.

I believe that I am not responsible for the actions of others, only my own. Therefore, I will try not to judge you or change you. But I will walk away if I believe that you are a negative force in my world.

I've only recently learned that I don't have to look good dancing in order to enjoy it. Once I came to that realization my life has been much more fun.

Lately the concept of quality over quantity has become more real than ever. Four people who are unflinchingly supportive and will drop anything to be there are so much better than ten who are not.

I'm not one of those women who puts other people first. Although I have been in the past. I don't recommend it. If you don't recognize the triumph in that, then you probably won't like me.

I sing along to songs in the car. Loudly. (sometimes I even roll down all the windows so everyone will hear me, even though my singing voice is nothing to write home about). I once had a friend who hated that. She still lives in our home town in the house where she grew up. I feel as though the two are connected.

I think standing by one's convictions is the most difficult and courageous thing someone can do. I am often disappointed by people who are unable to do this. Even myself.

Many people say I'm intimidating. I think it's just that I have a well-rounded and precise vocabulary and am not afraid to use it.

Perhaps the above has something to do with the fact that I don't pull punches. More people should do this. I will respect you more if you do.

I believe that happy is better than sad and I try every day to be positive. Sometimes this is really difficult and I can never do it alone.

I want more for the children in this country and especially this city. I think we are failing them. How hard is it to care? How hard is it to do a little something for your community? If your answer to this is I don't know or I don't care then you do not have my respect.

My goal for this year is to be unapologetic about getting what I want -- from myself, my family, my friends, my career, my LIFE. If you want to be a part of it, get on board. If not, eat my dust.