Twenty-five years in the making...

I remember like it was yesterday: I was fifteen years old, sitting in English class, twirling my hair, looking down at my new red Mary Jane heels I had just gotten the night before, trying to think where I could see myself in ten years. It was a writing assignment we all had to do and I was certain I knew exactly where I was going to be when I was twenty-five. There was no question about it.

Funny thing is it's not anywhere where I am now. But, that's how it usually goes though, right? When we're young we have such certain dreams for ourselves and we're certain we're going to achieve every single one of them.

To be honest, I'm happy I'm not in the place my fifteen year old self wanted me to be in. Her dreams for me were marriage and children by now.

Granted, I want both of those very much in the future. But now? Goodness gracious, I'm lucky I remember to bring my sliced apples for my lunch break.

This past year of being twenty-four has really taken a toll on me.

I know, I know, everyone says "I've learned soooo much about myself this year."

But, it's true. I've gotten a great grasp at the Hotto adult I want to be and who I'm already becoming. And the truth is is I like her.

Through the bumpy ride I experienced in my 24th year I ran into a lot of eye openers with every category in life: Careers. Family. Love. Lust. Heartache. Friends, Self-Image. Travel.

There were many tears, many laughs, a little heartache, and a lot of love. I wouldn't have traded any of it for anything.

Next year by this time, my plans are to be out of this state and start a new chapter in this storybook of mine.

No matter where I go, no matter how old I am, I know I'll always continue to be one thing: Happy.

So - Dear fifteen year old Hotto,
I may not have that dashing man by my side with two kids running around like you had hoped by this age. But, one day I will. Until then, I promise I'll continue on giving you adventures that your grandchildren will enjoy hearing and I promise you, even at the age of twenty-five, you're still one of the happiest girls with sunshine in her eyes. That's important to still have...believe me. You're doing alright in life.

Love,
You.


If you're around for the 25th, I'll be glad for you to come aboard on the crazy adventures of "Hotto." But, if you're one of those that are staying behind in the year twenty-four chapter...well, it's been fun! :-)

xoox,
hotto