12 more days to enjoy my TWENTIES

In just 12 days, I will no longer be able to enjoy my TWENTIES. On January 18th, I will turn from 29 to a whopping 30 YEARS OLD. This blows my mind, to say the least. It feels somewhat monumental. And, as much as I've been so fortunate to live quite a spectacular, mind-blowing, extraordinary 30 years, I still don't feel quite ready to make this major shift just yet. I feel as if I owe it to myself and the many, many people who have loved me through it all...a simple and heartfelt reflection.

It's simple really. I loved the past 30 years of my life...give or take a few pretty difficult moments. I can honestly say, that everything I've encountered and experienced, good and bad, have far exceeded my wildest expectations and dreams. I would've never, for example imagined I'd one day become Miss Guam, or one day sing for Simon, Paula and Randy of American Idol, or that one day I'd even turn on the TV to see myself interviewing an Air Force pilot. Wow.

Not to mention, the countless inspirations, role models I've met...it just isn't supposed to happen to a measly, dorky little girl from Guam. Darlene Zschech, Jaci Velasquez, Israel Houghton, Pastor Joel Osteen, Paula Deen, Matthew Fox, Miss Universe 2007, Elliott Yamin, Kymani Marley...I mean, really...that's just not in any way supposed to happen...right?! And, at the end of the day I know in my heart just who I have to thank for that.

It's been 30 years of amazing experiences and dreams come true, coupled with some incredible heartache and tumultuous situations. If it were up to me, I think there are a few things I'd do over or take back, but for the most part I am thankful for the good AND the bad. It has made me a better person with a much thicker skin. While my sensitivity is still very much intact, I can confidently say, there is little that surprises me or rocks me to the core. And, when something does succeed in rattling me somewhat, I've got the assurance that, from experience, I know I can survive it, I know I will be ok.

And, so with that...I look back on the past 30 years fondly and grateful for every single day I was blessed to live and enjoy the great things I've been given in life. And, while it hasn't all be easy, I understand that tough times are sometimes necessary to keep us on track, humble and reminded of just how REAL living life always is. And, at the end of the day...I know and will never forget the reason why...and who I'm living it all for.

Cheers to 12 MORE DAYS TO ENJOY MY TWENTIES! :)