Married

My best friends have been married for nearly two months now.  Two months of marriage, and Ashley and Eric are still so in love... not like I had any doubts. I've watched these two yahoos for the past six or seven years acting like elementary school kids teasing each other on the playground or holding hands like they've spend the better part of a century together.  Their love is the definition of true love.  Their love is what the rest of us long for.

Their day was incredible.  The girls met early at the salon to get hair and make up done.  We had breakfast and mimosas... it was awesome!  There is something to be said for a little "girlfriends time" on a woman's special day.  It makes everyone feel a little more at ease to be together!  The wedding, held outside at a gorgeous arboretum was picturesque.  Rose pedals lined the aisle, flowers bloomed in the garden, and the brightness of the pink bridesmaids dresses accented the greenest of green trees and grass.  It was supposed to rain... but it was as if God was smiling down on the two lovebirds, saying, "Do not fear! It will not rain on you as you say your vows!"  It did not rain during the ceremony... though pictures were cut short, and then detoured for a bit while the heavens opened up and graced us with what could only be described as a small monsoon!  At any rate, the rain did make for some incredibly cool pictures!  Plus, I hear that it is good luck to have rain on your wedding day!  With the amount of water that fell, I'd have to say Ash and Eric will be a very lucky couple! =)

We made it to the reception just as the sun was beginning to emerge.  The wedding party jumped on to golf carts and cruised around the course to take some unbelievable pictures. I couldn't get over how beautiful it had become outside.  It was a truly magical experience to see the day (the weather) change from uncertainty, to rain, to pure and definite beauty. It was definitely a sign of good things to come!

The party was incredible!  The hall was decorated perfectly and the guests were ready to party!  The speeches were eloquently given.  It was hard to keep dry eyes as the father of the bride toasted his little "peanut" on her special day.

There was some great food, amazing cake balls, and even better dancing.  The dance floor was definitely made useful, as the bride and groom cut a rug with all of their closest friends and family.  I'm not sure I've ever seen Ashley smile so big... or Eric dance with such happiness (he's not a dancer, folks).

When I think about the love that Ashley and Eric share, I am at piece.  They are truly meant for each other, and I feel so blessed to have been able to witness their love for each other.  There is a quote I love, that I believe absolutely defines the relationship of the Buol's;  "For it was not into my ear you whispered, but into my heart.  It was not my lips you kissed, but my soul." - Judy Garland

Congratulations to two of my best friends on their wonderful union.  I wish you all the happiness the world has to offer, and so much more!

Now start having babies, so I can spoil them rotten!


I love you both more than I'll ever be able to say!
xoxo,

Love True,
Allison

"Where Were You..." Take 2

One year ago exactly, I wrote about the biggest anniversary that my life has known.  It was the 10th Anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the United States of America.  September 11, 2001 was a day that I will never forget.  I could never forget the way I felt.  The fear that was in the air that day seemed to choke me.  I was trying to figure out the words to say tonight as I think about they day that looms on tomorrow's horizon, eleven years... It's been eleven years since I learned what it truly meant to be an American.  I looked back on my reflection from last year, and had to giggle.  Though it did bring me to tears, to delve into those feelings again, I found humor in the fact that I nearly wrote the exact same thing. Apparently, I'm very set in my feelings about this day, and rather than write them down AGAIN, I figured that since I said it pretty well 365 days ago, I would just share the same sentiments with you again.  So... here is what I thought exactly one year ago... and how I still ache today.

"Where Were You?"

Today marked the tenth anniversary of the day terrorists changed the world for us Americans.  Life as we knew it would never be the same.  As a fourteen year old freshman in high school, I had an idealized opinion of the great nation I was a part of.  Growing up, we were taught the history of the United States; How it was founded as the "New World" then later referred to as the "Promised Land" and the "Land of Opportunity."  All of these names given to a place that people believed in and looked to be a safe haven for families to grow and to prosper.  I remember learning about tragedies in our history like Pearl Harbor and feeling patriotic, knowing that our American people were able to come together to protect everything that our great country stood for.  And I remember September 11, 2001, realizing in one incredibly painful and eye opening moment that I was going to carry this day around with me forever.

I didn't go to school that morning, because I had a dentist appointment.  I was in the car, listening to the radio with my mom when the first plane hit.  I was in the dentist chair, with the radio in the background when the second plane hit.  I remember sitting up in the chair and saying, thinking "one plane could have been and accident... but two?  No way."  I arrived at school before the end of first period.  I remember walking to my Spanish 2 class, down the large, empty hallway feeling confused and completely alone.  Our principle came on the PA system and explained what I had already known, but no one else was aware of yet.  The deserted hallway seemed like a ghost town as every single classroom went silent.  He instructed the teachers to turn on the news, cancel classes for the day... and all we could do was watch.

Most days, I don't really think about that day.  But on a day like today all I can do is remember; the images of the people and debris, crying, and feeling very afraid.

I think that is what we are supposed to do.  Remember the day as it was, teach those who are young what it truly means to be an American... because like the teenagers who felt the Earth shake on December 7th, 1941... we now know what they felt.  The pain and the fear and the patriotism that was overflowing with rage as we tried to make sense of the acts.

I am so proud to be an American.  Words can't describe the feeling in my heart as write this.  It aches for the people who lost their lives, and the families that were destroyed; But it hopes for the future of these families and our Nation as a whole.

I hope everyone was able to take at least one moment today to say a prayer and to give thanks for our lives.  We are protected by an incredible group of men and women who sacrifice each day to keep our country safe.  Thank you to all our service men and women... from the bottom of my heart.

"Where were you when the world stopped turning on that September day?
Were you in the yard with your wife and children
Or working on some stage in L.A.?
Did you stand there in shock at the sight of that black smoke
Risin' against that blue sky?
Did you shout out in anger, in fear for your neighbor
Or did you just sit down and cry?

Did you weep for the children who lost their dear loved ones
And pray for the ones who don't know?
Did you rejoice for the people who walked from the rubble
And sob for the ones left below?
Did you burst out in pride for the red, white and blue
And the heroes who died just doin' what they do?
Did you look up to heaven for some kind of answer
And look at yourself and what really matters?

[Chorus:]
I'm just a singer of simple songs
I'm not a real political man
I watch CNN but I'm not sure I can tell
you the difference in Iraq and Iran
But I know Jesus and I talk to God
And I remember this from when I was young
Faith, hope and love are some good things He gave us
And the greatest is love

Where were you when the world stopped turning on that September day?
Were you teaching a class full of innocent children
Or driving down some cold interstate?
Did you feel guilty 'cause you're a survivor
In a crowded room did you feel alone?
Did you call up your mother and tell her you loved her?
Did you dust off that Bible at home?

Did you open your eyes, hope it never happened
Close your eyes and not go to sleep?
Did you notice the sunset the first time in ages
Or speak to some stranger on the street?
Did you lay down at night and think of tomorrow
Or go out and buy you a gun?
Did you turn off that violent old movie you're watchin'
And turn on "I Love Lucy" reruns?

Did you go to a church and hold hands with some strangers
Did you stand in line and give your own blood?
Did you just stay home and cling tight to your family
Thank God you had somebody to love?


And the greatest is love.
And the greatest is love.

Where were you when the world stopped turning that September day?" 

Alan Jackson- "Where Were You When the World Stopped Turning"

Love True-
Allison

Marilyn Monroe

Recently, I've found some of Marilyn Monroe's words to be very true, and completely relevant to my life!  I have always believed that everything happens for a reason, I've had to.  I think the things we go through in life are just preparing us for what is to come later; making us stronger so we can handle what life may or may not throw our way.  Whether it's a horrible thing or an extraordinary thing that is happening to us, it is leading us to what will come next.  

I applied for a job a couple of months ago.  A big job.  One that would have secured my financial existence, earned me medical and dental insurance, and would have put a huge dent in all of the work I have done for my two gymnastics teams.  This job, though it would have been absolutely terrific for me financially, would have prevented me from really being involved in the things I love most.  

If you couldn't already tell, I did not get this job.  After getting the "We absolutely loved you but..." phone call, I went into a week long (at least) depression.  I was mortified because my livelihood depended on this job.  I was finally at a point where I was willing to do what I had to do (meaning, just about any job on the planet) to pay my rent.  Anyway, once I counted my blessings, and got my head back on straight things started to appear a little more clearly.  

I was able to focus intently on my club gymnastics program, as well as my recruiting responsibilities, which I had been struggling to keep up with.  I had some time to myself in which I spent relaxing, working out, or just enjoying my own company.  It was nice.  Though, it only lasted for about a week when I got a random phone call about another job opportunity!

This job, teaching at the collegiate level, fits perfectly into my schedule.  I am teaching 140 students in six different classes.  I hardly feel grown up enough to be handling this task, but I couldn't feel more blessed.  This job allows me the luxury of maintaining all of my other special privileges- as coaching my gymnasts... ages 17 months all the way to 22 years... is with out a doubt, the most important job I do.  I think I'm going to love teaching though, as I've been doing it since I was 16, just in a different capacity.  I've already found a new level of patience, and serenity with this position.  I know it is, without a doubt, the better of the two job prospects I had this summer.  With that, I will share some of Marilyn's fearless words, 

“I believe that everything happens for a reason. People change so that you can learn to let go, things go wrong so that you appreciate them when they're right, you believe lies so you eventually learn to trust no one but yourself, and sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together.”

-Marilyn Monroe

EVERYTHING HAPPENS FOR A REASON.  Believe it, embrace it, and live it.  

Love True,

Allison

"Anything is possible"

"If you feel stuck where you are, you're mistaken. Anything is possible, when you engage the power of your imagination." 

This quote by Ralph Marston is so true to my life right now, as I'm sure it is to many others.  I haven't quite found the words to describe the last month of my life (probably why I haven't written at all)... but this seemed all too relevant. 

That's kind of it for tonight!  Sorry to bum y'all out... but I think that quote kind of says it all.  If there's one thing I know about life, it's that life is all about the journey.  Sometimes the journey doesn't move as quickly as we'd like, from one low to the next high, but I know that one day we'll all look back and wish life had moved a little more slowly.  So on that note, I'm going to enjoy where I am at this exact moment.  I'm going to pour myself a glass of wine, and think of all of the things in my life that I am truly grateful for.  

And I recommend you do the same... red wine and all! ;)

Love True,

Allison

Thank You, Mom

The Olympics are in full swing, and the country is sitting, waiting, watching for team USA to bring home as many medals as possible in all of the various sports.  It is such a magnificent time that occurs every four years that truly brings this country together.  One of the highlights of the Olympics is always the Gymnastics competition; a sport that completely eludes most individuals, but is nothing but comfort to me.  I have sat on my couch for the past 5 days, watching opening ceremonies, and every gymnastics (and many other sports) competition that has aired, each day finding myself in tears.  I don't know what it is about this sport that draws out so much emotion, but day after day, the tears continue to flow.  Though the gymnastics itself get's me all kinds of emotional, the commercials, this year, have been doing a damn good job soliciting my tears.

P&G has had a series of commercials featuring different athletes and their moms titled "Thank you, Mom."  These images are so raw and so touching that I have no doubt that a former athlete must have directed them all.  There is something about an athlete's relationship with his or her mother that only makes sense to them.  All of the early morning wake ups, driving to and from practice, shelling out money for this uniform, or that competition fee, private lessons, and team practices, specially cooked dinner well after the family has eaten, spending entire weekends cooped up in a gym or on a field, counseling sessions when we all wanted to quit (and let's be serious, we all did.), countless doctors appointments, casts, surgeries, rehab and doubting ourselves; EVERYTHING was made easier knowing that one person was there, one person didn't really care if you took first, one person unconditionally loved you and supported you and only wanted to see you enjoy the thing you loved most.  

Okay, I know I'm dreaming when I think that every kid must have had a mom as great as mine, but honestly, it saddens me to think otherwise.  I know not every mom would have been okay with second, or third, or tenth place, or not qualifying to nationals, or even wanting to quit the sport she had sacrificed so much for me to do.  I also know that not every mom would let their kid go back to a sport that ravaged their body into two reconstructive surgeries, because I wasn't ready to let it go.  

My amazing Mom and I at the last meet of my collegiate career.

My Mom was with out a doubt, the definition of a great mom.  She still is.  I have no idea where I would be without her and everything she has done for me.  She has taught me kindness, compassion, strength, perseverance and courage... all things that I needed to be a good athlete, but more importantly, all things that I still need to be a good person.  I would share her with the world if I could, because I think that every kid deserves to have a mom like mine.  

I've posted two of the Proctor and Gamble videos that truly touched me.  Although, I invite you all to head to the P&G website and check out all of their "Raising an Olympian" videos.  They are truly inspiring.  I love the "kids" video, but I truly adore the second one.  I think it speaks so true to what Moms do each day.  Thanks to my amazing mom (and spectacular dad!) for allowing me to chase my dreams in the sport that I love so much.  They have even supported my goals to be a great coach!  Nothing has been easy, but I guess nothing that is worth it ever is!  I learned that from my wonderful, inspiring and loving parents- and I am very much looking forward to the day I can share this love with my own kids!  Thanks, Mom (and Dad!) I love you both more than words will ever say!

Kids

The Best Job

Love True,

Allison

ONE YEAR!!

Hello Friends!
I hope you are all doing splendidly on this lovely Monday morning!  I am posting today from under the big blue sky in my parent's back yard.  This week called for a little rest and relaxation, as I wrapped up the third session of my new gymnastics program.  The summer seems to be flying by as 9 weeks of gymnastics are now over, and I am looking forward to the next two weeks of Warhawk Gymnastics camp, followed by what is sure to be a magical wedding between two of my dearest friends.

Though things have been incredibly hectic over the past few months, I wanted to at least acknowledge the one year anniversary of my journey on this blog.  June 28th, 2011 was my first blog entry.  I have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support over the past year.  Whether you just stumbled upon this blog, or have been with me since the beginning, I am so grateful for the messages, the comments and the encouragement you have shown me.

Everyone has dreams, and I cherish the support you have shown me on my way to achieving mine.  Words will never be able to express how grateful I am to each one of you.  There is no quote today... All I can say is thank you, from the bottom of my heart.

Love True,
Allison

Dove

Hello Friends!
I apologize for being MIA for a while! Sometimes life just catches up with me, and I put this blog on hold.  Funny, though... because writing to you all is exactly what I need when life gets to be too hectic!  I recently saw a commercial on TV that brought me to tears, and I wanted to share it with you all.

Dove Self-Esteem "Growing Up"

Dove is an organization I have admired for years for their Campaign for Real Beauty.  Instead of focusing on "anti wrinkle" creams, or "anti aging" serums, Dove is devoted to encouraging a healthy body image, and promoting self-esteem to young women.  Dove actually has workshops dedicated to helping girls see themselves as beautiful.  In a study they conducted, only 4% of women around the world considered themselves to be beautiful. 4%??? That means that 96% of the women on this planet are wishing and hoping to change something about themselves.  I am completely horrified at that statistic.  Thank goodness for organizations like Dove, who are taking steps to change the way society interprets beauty.

It is so important to spread positive messages to women of all ages.  To inspire them to be themselves, to create themselves and empower themselves.  Maybe this video touched a piece of my heart because of the little gymnasts and athletes involved.  But maybe it just reminded me of the little girl I used to be.

This little Allison to the left sure did feel beautiful!  I have been so lucky to have strong women in my life who helped to do for me what Dove is doing for girls all over the world.  I think it's time to spread the wealth.

Day 28: Tell someone she is beautiful.  Share Dove's message and reach out to someone.  Start a chain reaction... and put a smile on someone's face!

Love True,

Allison


Guess who only uses Dove products!?>>>>>> THIS GIRL! I am a very proud Dove consumer... and I hope to join in their campaign for real beauty!