9/9 Choices.

The life that you live every day, are you deserving of it? Or do you deserve more? Interestingly enough, you are in full control of what your life will turn out to be.

If when you wake up in the morning and you are not getting ready to do exactly what you want to or not in preparation for what you want to, change it. You have that choice. Yes, we want to believe that everything happens for a reason. But the fact of the matter is, is that we all have choices every day and we choose to make or not make them.

So think about this today and for the remainder of the week. What choices will you make to better your life? And who will you take with you? Better your life and the life of those around you. You deserve it and so do the ones who you love. I believe in you. :) Enjoy the life you have and especially enjoy the life you deserve.

9/3 Carrie's First Day of School!

For many of you, this is just the start to another work week. If that's the case, I hope you had the chance to spend time with your loved ones yesterday or over the entire weekend.

We sometimes take for granted the time that we do get, how scarce it really is. I know that I don't get to spend as much time with my family and friends as much as I'd like, so I really appreciated this time as summer truly came to an end.

With that in mind, there are others that may have already began, or are beginning their new school year this week. For me, this will be my first school year with my new school year and my new kiddos. I'd be lying if I said I felt completely confident in my abilities to teach my kids today, but I know I'm foolish to think I don't have the necessary tools and experiences to do so.

So, if you could all pray for me today, and perhaps this week, I promise that I will return the favor. Thank you all for the continued support and belief that I can and will change the lives of those around me. I know you all have the capability to do that as well. :)

8/27 Fun With My Other Family!

This past weekend, I had the opportunity to spend time with Adam's family, a family I can now call my own (hopefully) :). 

It was so wonderful to get that quality time, especially before my first week of true teacher duties before school actually starts. I live for weekends like these; where I can just live in the moment and spend time with those that I love and with those whom appreciate me. We all have those moments and live for those very moments that carry us through to the next day or even through the entire week so we can have that feeling again; that feeling of love, compassion, and security. Live for that moment. 

Live for those who are grateful for what you make their life and be grateful for the impact they have on yours. It will never go unnoticed.

(Carrie's First Classroom!)

8/19 Goodbye YSU and hello Masters!

I cannot be more humbled from this past weekend with my dearest friends and family. I honestly have to have the greatest support system around me in order to accomplish all that I have at this point in my life. 

This past weekend's celebration signified all that I have done in everyone else's eyes, but I honestly celebrated those who have stood behind me, right beside me, even in front of me when I didn't realize what path I wanted to take, and especially under when I could not pick myself up. I celebrated those who made my dreams possible and who are continuing to do that every day.  Some of you are crazy enough to stay with me even after graduation as I continue to go to school, start my teaching career, while even finishing current and future endeavors. 

Some of you may think that I inspire you, but deep down, you are my inspiration to finish everything I have started; for I can't possibly imagine letting any of you down. Thank you all for supporting me and believing that I can do it. That means more than actually doing it at any moment. <3

8/12 Triathlons and Commencements!

This past weekend, I accomplished something with Adam that I never thought I would be able to and that I never should have even attempted. Regardless of that fact, upon finishing, I felt exhilarated that I was able to finish against all odds and being dealt the hand of cards that I have.

What's even more exciting is the fact that this upcoming Saturday, I'll be accomplishing yet another milestone that I never thought would come; graduating with my Masters. I cannot believe this day is finally coming and a new phase of my life is beginning just in a few, short weeks. Amidst all of the tribulations this past year, I have been truly blessed with what I have accomplished, the opportunities I have acquired, and with the people in my life.

Thank you all for supporting me and for being there on my special day. I love you. <3

8/5 My Friends.

What I have come to notice lately is that I have the greatest friends of all time. No matter how often I see them, talk to them, or what category of my life they are in, I can depend on them for anything. In this area of my life, I honestly could not be more blessed.

Through the many trials and tribulations, my friends have been there for me in ways that I didn't know that they could be or ways that I knew I needed. I can depend on my friend who is on the other side of the world, my friends in other states, in other phases of their lives, or understanding of the fact that I don't have the time.

Regardless of the reason, it never changes the fact that we are friends and that we will remain there for one another. I feel that I have celebrated that this summer, this past weekend, and will continue to celebrate my friendships every day, no matter where I am in relationship to them. Thank you all for everything you have done for me. I love you all just as if you were my family. Hell, you are my family. <3

7/29 I Cherish You All!

This morning when I woke up, I had a sincere appreciation for all of my loved ones. I thought about each and every one of them and my last encounter with them; regardless of how recent.

I wanted to remember whether or not I had a positive interaction with them that portrayed my appreciation and love for them. It might be sad to think about, but you never know how soon someone can be taken away from you; so always enjoy the time you get with those you cherish in your life. Always appreciate them, choose your battles wisely, and always love them unconditionally for everything they are at the end of the day.

I promise, they will walkways love you, even if they are no longer with you. You will always be loved. <3

7/23 Happy Birthday, Carrie!

This past week/weekend, I had the time to celebrate my birthday with friends and family. It was a beautiful time and I wouldn't trade it for the world.

Even though my birthday comes during the busiest month of my entire life, I love that I have loved ones who want to find time for me even though I never have time for me. For that, I am truly grateful for.

Take time this week and every day to be appreciative and thankful for those who truly love you even if you don't always have time to show them. That is something to feel blessed about. <3

7/16 To The Future.

First of all, sorry I'm so late! However, it makes sense because this week came so quickly after such a busy weekend - for me at least. The summer seems to be flying by and I can honestly say that I am ready for this phase of my life to continue on, but I am not entirely ready for what's coming next. It's a very conflicting feeling to have, you know?

 I mean, this is such an exciting time for me for many reasons: I've had so much time with my family, working with my favorite students, graduating with my Masters, getting a new job, finding an amazing boyfriend, and celebrating my birthday with the people I care about most.

However, I am also so frightened to move on with my life and face the realities of what comes next: responsibility, more hard work, evidence of your success, the possibility of future heartache and/or loss of loved ones. If any of you can relate, I want you to know that I will be thinking of you and praying for you, always. And if you can spare some for those around me, it would be greatly appreciated.

Remember everything that you have and be proud of everything you have accomplished. You are worth all of your hard work and you have so many people who are proud of you, as well.

7/8 Wedding Bells and Family!

This past weekend was such a blessing because I had the opportunity to spend time with my beautiful family in the midst of my busiest month of the year.

Although this time of my life is bittersweet because I am finishing my Masters and I just want it to be done, it was wonderful to take an entire weekend to just pause to celebrate the love of my cousin and my now, new cousin :), as well as spending time with everyone I love so dearly. It's moments like this that I really feel blessed for what I have in my life, who I have to share it with, and for what I am becoming.

Thank you all for being a part of it. For this week, please think about who you are and who you have; friends and family. You will never find anyone else to share your life with that means any more than they do. I love you all <3

7/1 Time Is a Changing!

It seems as though many of my friends; myself included, are going through many, many changes in their life. The majority of these changes are positive and life altering to the point where they are progressing the direction that they should be even if these changes are full of fear and uncertainty.

However, we take these chances and make changes in life so we can better ourselves. However, if some of you are going through changes that you did not choose and are not positive, I hope that you can still learn from it and do what is needed to accept it and grow from this experience.

I am a firm believer of everything happening for a reason; but also focusing on how you react to those experiences. You are in control of your life, ultimately. I believe in you and am here for you. Thank you to all who are with me through the positive and negative changes in my life :) You can and will get through it, that I can promise you.

6/24 Here's To You.

Today is a little different. Today, I want to take the time to thank you; each and every one of you. I want to thank all of you for being there for me; for being understanding of who I am, what obstacles I have to face and who I have become as a person despite these obstacles and experiences.

I want to thank you for being here for me, in whatever way that has been. Regardless of the role you have played in my life, your role is a vital and significant role to that outcome of my life and my overall happiness. Whether I have known you for my entire life or even if I have just met you, I am so happy that I have. Even if we do not even converse any longer, I do not regret ever coming into contact because you have forever changed my life and had a hand in who I am today. I hope I have forever changed your life as well and I wish you the best of luck.

For those who mean the most to me today, I love you; I always will and I appreciate you and your willingness to be apart of my life every day. You will always be an important part of my life, forever <3

6/18 Father's Day

First of all, I want to thank everyone for the continued prayers for my family. This past weekend was a difficult one, but a necessary one.

 Although finding the time to be with family is nearly impossible, and with my friends even more so, I appreciate the fact that my closest friends are always understanding and supportive of that fact.

 Father's Day wasn't the easiest of holidays (if anyone considers it a holiday), but I loved sharing it with my father and especially my brother, as well. To me, it is definitely a holiday because celebrating my father and everything he is to me is of the utmost importance to my life.

 I hope everyone else had a beautiful weekend with their families and I'll return the favor to you. God bless. <3

6/11 Pray.

Hi everyone, I know I'm a day late. 

I would love to reflect on my wonderful weekend with my beautiful friends and beautiful experiences. 

However, today, I am actually going to ask a favor from each and every one of you. Tonight, despite everything that your life has given you to deal with, could you please pray for something that you will never understand or come to know? 

Will you please pray that God sees things through just as they should be for my family and for anyone who will be affected? I'm sorry for my lack of encouraging words; though I can tell you that having faith in whatever you do and believe in will make all of the difference. For, that's exactly what I'm attempting to do in this moment. Thank you all for always listening and especially for your prayers at this moment. 

God bless and love. <3

6/3 You're Never Alone

Hey everyone.  From the past week/weekend I have had, as well as my close friends and family, I can't help but think that life truly throws surprises at us. 

It saddens me to know that many people that I love are going through some really rough patches at the moment.  All I can say is that there are so many people around you who love you and that there has to be a reason for all of this turmoil and strife.  Despite your reservations to believe it, you will surpass this point in your life and you will carry on.  I will be there to support you, love you, and watch you grow, as will so many others.  Believe in yourself and try to keep your head up.  God bless each and every one of you.

5/28 Memorial Day Weekend Festivities

Sorry I'm late, everyone. I just want to wish everyone a Happy belated Memorial Day. 

I had a beautiful day/weekend with my family, Adam's family and wonderful friends. To say that I'm blessed and thankful is a sheer understatement. 

Amongst everything I have to do and complete on a daily and weekly basis, it is amazing that the people who care about me most still find time to spend their time with me or talk to me as much as they do. Even if I don't have the time, they make the time for me. I am so grateful for all of you in my life, especially those of you who have sacrificed your life for me or for anyone else in any way. 

I will always do the same for you. Thank you all for being my rock when I've needed you most at some point or another in my life. I love you and I always will. Be safe, God bless and remember those you hold dear, near and far.

5/20 It's the freakin' weekend.

This past weekend has been brought many ups and many downs, but mainly ups if I do say so myself. 

I had the opportunity to spend time with my family, so many wonderful friends and other beautiful people in my life, no matter how short amount of time. I got to take part in engagements with someone whom I'm so lucky to have as an integral part of my life. 

I got to witness a beautiful couple get married and truly see the transformation of happiness arise because of that love they have for one another. 

And I also did the impossible on Sunday for one of the best causes I have ever been involved in. Even though I'm not supposed to run, I took one for the team and I accomplished this goal with my man by my side. He never left me and I was able to walk away from that finish line just a little sore and completely proud that I finished :) Thank you to everyone who had faith in me even if you didn't think I should do it because of my injuries and sickness. Of course, I agree with you. But you knew I'm stubborn and I just had to for my kids :) I love you all and I'm so fortunate to have you all on my side. I will be forever grateful. 

Enjoy today and this entire week; you owe that to yourself. I'll be thinking of you.

5/13 I Won't Give Up on Any of You.

Friends and family, 

I  apologize that I am late. 

However, I have had such a huge week and life altering decisions have been brought to my attention. Of course, decisions have not been made and they will not be for a long, long time. 

But what I can tell you is that when life gives you chances to take, you always have to take them at face value and do what is potentially best for you. If you're not sure what is best for you, all you can do is take a leap of faith and hope that you're making the right decision. 

My life, currently, is challenging me professionally, personally, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. Today, I am asking for each and every one of you to pray for me. I need every one to be in my corner and I promise that I will always be in yours. I'm not sure if I will always be here, physically in your life. But I promise that you have made a positive impact in my life. I hope that I have done the very same for you. I truly love you all, even if I have done anything to taint our relationship or your view of me. We all make mistakes; I forgive you for yours. Please forgive yourself for yours as well and I will do the same. 

Take chances in your life and do what you think will make YOU happy. Ultimately, you are the only one who can go and grasp your happiness for the rest of your life. I believe in each of you.

5/6 The semester that wouldn't end is ending!

As the semester comes to a close and summer begins, I can't help but feel a sense of relief. I feel like I've come so far these past couple of months in so many aspects of my life. There are many of you who have been there literally, every step of the way and there have been many of you who have stood from the sidelines, cheering me on or spectating. Whatever role you have chosen to play or been placed to play, I am so grateful that you are a part of my life. In this time of relief, I can't help but think that soon, I will be back in my state of aggravation and stress, hoping to fulfill all of my endeavors and priorities. However, I truly hope that I fulfill my role in your life and I have the same aspirations for you; to reach your potential and enjoy your life with those you have alongside of you. For life is far more enjoyable with those that you love to help you through those trials that make you exactly who you are meant to be :) Thank you for each and every one of you; I love you all!

4/29 The Fiol Family Reunion!

My dearest friends, family, and loved ones; I am so sorry that I missed you all last week.  I had come down with a terrible fever/illness and I wasn't myself for over a week.  I think I missed my weekly writing more than you all could have because it is my connection to all of you; to those of you I don't get the chance to talk to every day., week or even month but I know you get to hear me.  Today, I would like to discuss the value and joy of family because I had the pleasure of seeing mine this past weekend.  It is always so much more fun that I ever anticipate because who would have ever thought that I have the best family in the entire world.  No matter how long we go without seeing one another, it never interferes with the time that we do get to spend together.  We always look toward the next days we get to spend and I am forever grateful for each and every member I have a relationship with.  For those I did not see, I cannot wait to see you at our next gathering.  You were sorely missed and we all love you.  Be thankful for all of your family today and everyday.  You could never be who you are without them.

4/15 Just Another Manic Monday

You know, waking up to scheduled, but unexpected responsibilities and tasks can throw one for a loop.  I was very prepared this morning to take Monday by the reigns and get a head start with week.  However, who would have thought that I had in fact forgot about my first priority of the week?  It goes to show that we can all do the unthinkable, even when we are always so dependable to those we come in contact with on almost a daily basis.

Today, I am very thankful for those I have in my life who continue to be understanding of who I am and all that I have to undergo.  They are always there for me, easy to lend an ear, and kind-hearted word to let me know that it Is okay to make a mistake once in awhile and that there is always room for a re-do.  For this, I am truly thankful.  You know who you all are :) Today and every day, be thankful for whom you have the opportunity to live everyday with.  I know without a doubt, that they are just as thankful for you.   

4/8 Spring is in the air!

Going into this morning, I had planned on getting up early to work out and start my week early and productively. However, I apparently had other plans. Normally, I'd be upset by something like this; I would be hard on myself and rush to get to where I was going and rush to get everything done.

Today, however, was different. I saw this occurrence as necessary and what was "supposed" to happen. I was able to get more rest, I was able to spend more time with someone I truly care about, I still got the same amount of work done from home and I enjoyed the beautiful day from my kitchen table instead of inside an office. Oh, to appreciate God's gifts even if they seem to stem from a minor mistake or mishap of just sleeping through your alarm.

Today and this week, I challenge you to see the positives in everything you do, in every choice you make; regardless if it's a mistake or not. Who knows, it may end up being anything but a mistake; perhaps, a choice that will dictate the joy or your outlook of your day in its' entirety. :) God bless.

4/1 Easter Festivities

Now that Easter is over, it is so easy to forget what that day and this time of year is all about.  Let's not put yesterday and the past weekend behind us so quickly; but remember our reasons for celebrating our beliefs and our life with our family and in our place of worship, wherever that may be.  Regardless of your beliefs or the significance of this time of year, take the time to remember and think about what it all means to you each and every day.  Be thankful for what you have, who you are, and the reason for all of that joy in your life.  Whoever you have to thank for that, put all of your faith in them and never boast; but act in gratitude and love.  Think and pray for those who may need to find that faith as well.  Be thankful today and every day, for you have so much to be thankful for every day you are given.

3/25 Those Weekends.

I love beginning a new week, only to reflect on the past weekend with friends and family.  This weekend especially, was so enjoyable with the ones that I cherish the most.  Sure, even those who are closest to me can get on my nerves, hurt me in the worst of ways and perhaps engage in questionable acts in spite of their loves ones.  However, don't we all?  Regardless of that, accepting my loves ones for who they are, spending time with them, and cherishing that time trumps all the negatives that might come into play.  Weekends such as this make make the next, difficult and time consuming week so worth it; just to get to that next weekend to spend with those friends who mean the most, who are just like family, and to get to that next weekend to see family that you don't get to see very often but think of frequently.  My challenge for you is to appreciate your family and friends who do the same for you, this week, next week, and every day   Love them always, no matter how difficult that task; for you don't know how long you will have that opportunity.