New Wave of Literature

Lately, I cannot get enough of Young Adult literature. I find myself devouring books about dystopian
societies, the growing pains of adolescence and trying the struggle of juggling live of two different worlds. I read the words of Lauren Oliver, of Cassandra Clare, John Green, Veronica Roth and Suzanne Collins. I cant get enough.

What every one of these authors has accomplished-is the ability to take the young adult mind away from their own stressed, and into another world. Their creativity is explored, and experiences altered. I was always a reader, but for those who may not have had that passion at an early age, these authors with bring into their world. We may just save the world of literature for the future by creating new literature lovers!

Grace

I am a list maker.

Whenever I feel overwhelmed, I make a list. When I am feeling inspired, I make a list. To me, there is nothing more gratifying that crossing something off. Admittedly, I sometimes put something on my list that I have already completed, just to feel the satisfying feeling of crossing it off.

A few years ago, I made a list of things that I wanted to accomplish. They are bigger picture goals, not my daily list. There is something tangible about writing things down that makes them real; and holds me accountable. Here is my list of things that I want to have accomplished by the time I am thirty:

• Run a full marathon
• Write and publish a book
• Get married
• Have a child
• Own a house

A good friend and mentor told me that because of my personality style, I need to do a better job about relishing in my accomplishments. Too often I move through life, checking things of my list and forget to celebrate my accomplishments. So here is to Terry-thank you for the advice.

• Ran a half marathon
• Started a blog
• Paid off 75% of my loans
• Got involved in parish life
• Regular volunteer

Life is good, glorious and worth every second. Thank you, Terry, for making me stop and take a look at all of the good I have done.

This weekend, my home community suffered two great tragedies. One young person is missing and has been for the last 24 hours. In some communities this is not cause for alarm, but in ours it is. There was a prayer vigil tonight. That same night, a few hours later, another young man lost his life in a car accident. Needless to say, the community has been struck and deeply saddened.

Because I live far from home, I find myself looking at the community from a birds eye view. The rally of support and love a midst these tragedies is astounding. While my heart breaks for these families and friends of these young men, I am a proud member of the CDH community tonight. They have taught all of these young people a great lesson on what it means to gather together when times get tough. They have embodied the principles of a sense of community and pillars of faith.

New Beginnings

November seems like a good time to start blogging. There is a crisp to the air and the season of thankfulness has started. When I take the time to think about what I am thankful for, I becoming gloriously overwhelmed by everything that comes to mind.

As appropriately titled, this blog is my personal happiness project. Well, that isn't exactly true. The blog is my record of self-betterment; the real work will happen while I am out living. The blog will serve as my accountability partner in it all. It will keep me on track, and focused on the bigger picture. It will also serve my own personal mission to become a better writer.

Today I am grateful for many things, but at this moment I am most thankful for greater teachers. I am thankful for the teachers I had in academic settings, as well as my familiar and social teachers. Teachers who have inspired, pushed and shown me that I am worthy, capable and accomplished. I hope to serve you all proud.

Happy November.