My Circle

{we heart it}

On Valentines Day, I (like most people), am thinking about a little L-O-V-E.  Today however, I'm not just thinking about my sweetie, I am thinking about a very special group of people I call "my circle."  My circle, the group of people in my life who keep me going, keep me grounded, and continually make my world so special.  These people surround me with love and support even in the toughest of times.  Its because of my circle that I not only feel loved, but that I know how to love.  Throughout my life, the people in my circle have shown me the true meaning of love and given me a real and tangible example of it.  My circle is made up of a lot of different people, from different times in my life.  Each has given me something unique and special, and today, on Valentines Day, I am thinking of them with a warm and overflowing heart.

My Matt, the man who makes life such an adventure, a daily joy, and a constant laugh attack.  Together, we're learning a ton about love and I feel so blessed to be on this journey with him...
My sweet parents, who have wrapped me in love from the beginning.  The notes in my lunch, the big bear hugs, and the endless support saying "you can do it; we believe in you..."
My little brother, the first person to ever mesmerize my heart.  He is brave, he is patient, and he is trusting...

My high school bff, Jordan, who across time and distance has understood me and offered up support and encouragement at just the right times...
My dear friend Kristin, who gives her undivided attention and heart to the people in her life.  Her love is authentic and unwavering...
My friend Miguel, who manages to make me with laugh without fail.  He is a loyal friend who subtly reminds you, "you've got this..."

My group of high school friends who know the real me and love me regardless.  I thought as I got older, these people would grow farther out of my circle, but nothing of the sort has happened; they've stayed nestled close to heart, even across all the miles...
My small group of Kappa friends, whose friendships have become deeper and more meaningful after our time at OU.  These girls have reminded me that love is built on a solid foundation...
My close graduate school friends, who remind me that love is about celebrating the exciting and supporting through the trying...

My sister, who is so opposite from me, its comical.  Yet, we've stayed connected and supportive.  A rare set of circumstances brought us together, and thank goodness they did...
My sweet friend Steven, who reminds me that love is fiercely loyal and strong...
My old boss, who has taught me that love listens and isn't always loud and overbearing...

My "second families" in Dallas, who have shown me that love is inclusive and there at a moments notice...
My three Kent and Pine Cove besties, who remind me that love shares special experiences and brings people together, even at a young age...
My aunt, uncle, and cousins, who have taught me that a small extended family can be a powerful one...

They're my circle, my people, and my loves.  They've shown how to love, how to support, and how to accept.  They've given me unwavering encouragement, and they inspire me to lead a full and thoughtful life.  I am so thankful for the role that my circle has played and continues to play in my life.  Today, on Valentines I am grateful for the fabulous people I am blessed to call "my circle."

I encourage you today, on this special day, to reach out to your circle and let them know how much you love them.