New Year, New Resolutions

I have never been big on New Years Resolutions, because I believe if you want to change something in your life, you don't have to wait until the new year to do it! I think you can make realistic goals any time of the year. But there are certain occasions, such as New Years that causes more reflection on your life and how you are living it. First and foremost, I must say that I am thankful for another year and another opportunity to pursue my dreams.

As for resolutions, I couldn't think of anything I drastically need to change. As I listened to my brothers laundry list (big and small) of resolutions, I thought to myself, what could I resolve to do this year that I haven't in the past?

I decided that I would pick something that would be challenging, but worthwhile. I don't want something easy, or something I already do and just want to do more often (or be more consistent).

I found this idea on Pinterest, and I absolutely love it!! Every day for all of 2013 (well I'm starting a week late, but it will still work!) I am going to write down one thing that was good about that day, or one thing I am thankful for that day. I will keep all my daily notes in a big jar. Then, at the end of 2013, I will read everything I wrote to help me better reflect on the year!

I think it will be a challenge for me to find the good in every day. To constantly be reminded of what I am thankful for. And mostly, to remember to do it every day and keep them all in one place! That will take some effort with all the random places I'm sure to go! But I am very excited for this resolution and all the adventures 2013 will surely bring! Maybe, I'll share some of my notes throughout the year too!

In 2013, I also want to make more of a difference and share my experiences with others. So these are a few resolutions, which may be a bit harder to measure:
I want to volunteer more.
Take more pictures. (Some people probably think I already take a lot. But I'll be thankful down the road when I have these to remind me of good times and good people!)
I want to blog more. Yes, that means you all get to follow more of my adventures!


What is your New Years Resolution? How are you going to achieve it? What will make it difficult?

Simple lessons

During the holiday season I wanted to post some simple lessons that I have learned over the years. I was going to post these over a few day time span, but of course I was so busy with family that I didn't really have time to do that! So as 2013 begins, here are some lessons I am sharing for everyone to take with them this new year! To me, these are the most important things in life. Feel free to comment and share your stories and lessons learned, too!

1. Choose how you react to situations. Choose to be happy. 
We can't always predict what will happen to us, in fact, we rarely can. So as much as we plan ahead and think about what we would do in certain situations, things don't turn out as we've planned. Good or bad, things happen! What is most important though, is how we CHOOSE to react. It's not always easy to find a way to make the best out of a difficult situation, but it sure does make it a lot easier to deal with. The more we choose to be happy (even when we really don't want to be), the happier we will truly be.

2. Find what you are passionate about and do that.
We hear stories about family, friends, acquaintances, or maybe even ourselves, who are not happy in their job or their life. We all have different talents and yes, some pay more than others, but to truly be happy with life, I think you need to do what you are passionate about. Maybe you can't change jobs, but you do have a choice about what you do with your time outside of that. Volunteer with animals or kids. Maybe start a non-profit or get involved at a local gym. If you have something you are passionate about, it makes hard work easy. It will drive you forward every day and it won't feel like work. I am fortunate enough to have found that in field hockey, which I get to call my job.

3. Tell the ones you love and care about how you feel every single chance you get.
In the wake of the Sandy Hook tragedy in Newtown, CT, we cannot be reminded of this more. Life is unpredictable. We never imagine bad things happening to us or the ones we love, but sometimes they do. At the least, we can let our love be known. If not for the chance we may never see them again, but to really build that relationship and bond between people. The more we love each other and let each other know, the better we feel about each other and ourselves, and the more we can help one another when times get hard. It may seems silly at times, but you really never know when you might be able to see someone again.

4. Know what is best for you. You know yourself best, follow your heart and your mind.
Be yourself and trust in who you are. Don't try to be like anyone else. We are all original and we should embrace that. As much as we want to "fit in" and "be liked", others will like you best when you are yourself. We come to many crossroads in life, trust yourself to know what is best for you. Don't rely on others to make your life decisions. Your mind will make sense of it all, but your heart will lead you to where you truly want to be.

5. Giving truly is better than receiving.
This is often highlighted during the holiday season, which is fantastic. BUT, I think it is something we should seek to do throughout the entire year. Find somewhere to volunteer, once a week, once a month, whenever you have time. Giving doesn't always mean money and gifts, time and energy can often be more than enough. As we are all very different, passionate about different things, skilled in different areas, I ask you to just give what you can. If you can give money, that's great. If you can give time, even better. Best of all, give energy, bring life and excitement with you, and give that to others!

6. Be thankful. Be humble.
This sort of encompasses all the other lessons. Be thankful for all that you have, all that you've been given, and all the opportunities that have yet to come. Be thankful for the people in your life. The ones you love, and the ones who love you. Be thankful for those who are no longer in your life, for they have taught you something and helped shape you into who you are today. Be thankful for your health and your life. You can be thankful for the material things you own, but in all honesty, if you were to lose all of those things today, you would still have much more to be thankful for. The intangible things are what really make life important. And be humble. No one can achieve success on their own. Many people, from family, friends, educators, mentors, competitors, to even complete strangers, have played a part in getting you to where you are today.

7. Be happy. Be kind. Be generous. Be loyal. Be compassionate. Be giving. Be you. Most of all, be thankful.


If we take these things to heart, not only will be happy, we will be surrounded by love, passion, and thanks. We will not only be making our own lives better, but we'll be making the world around us a better place too. So as you reflect on the holidays and the year that has passed, find the good things to take forward with you. Look into the new year, remembering the good, but resolving to make it better. All of these are simple things, yet they make a world of difference.

My dog Oreo

Just over two years ago, I lost one of my best friends in the whole world: my dog, Oreo. Although some just say she is an animal, a pet, a dog; to me, she was (wo)man's best friend.
From the day I first saw her in the animal shelter, we had a connection. She picked me. As soon as I walked in, she wagged her skinny black tail against the chain-link fence until it was bloody. But she didn't care. She was so happy. She knew she was going home that day. As I walked around the corner to check out all the other dogs, she literally did not take her eyes off me. She stared longingly at the space I had just departed until the moment when I returned. After doing a loop, I couldn't help but notice the moment I returned, sweet Oreo went from calm to hyper the second I stepped foot into her line of sight. My mother watched in amazement. She had dogs her whole life and had never seen anything quite like it. Without hesitation, we knew which dog was ours.
Part beagle, part black lab mix, Oreo was already a year old and had garnered the name from her black and white coloring. She was a bit of a handful that first year though. The first week home we had trouble getting her to eat anything. She was so skinny you could see her ribs. Despite our worry, she was still extremely energetic and happy. After a progression of trial and error which started with dog food, went to cereal and yogurt, we finally got her to eat some steak with gravy on top. I know, what a spoiled dog! I don't even get that for dinner! She quickly began putting some weight back on, and soon she was healthy and back on her dog food!!
She was potty trained, but that is about all she knew how to do. We had to teach her to sit and stay, and what a treat was (the latter didn't take long though!) One of my favorite memories was how as soon as she sat down, she raised her paw in hopes you would take it in your hand to shake. I'm still not sure how she learned that without learning how to sit, but it made me smile! After losing a few school books and some drapes to her boredom and chewing, and a few too many nips and bites while playing, my mom had had enough and threatened to take her back. I was at a loss, only finding comfort from my dearest Oreo. I literally sat her down and told her she had to stop or she wouldn't be my dog anymore. As she licked away my tears, I knew she understood. From that day forward, she never once bit or chewed anything besides her dog bones. She understood.
We didn't have a fenced in yard, only a run line for her in the backyard. Every once and a while we wouldn't clip her well or she would sneak out the door, off she would bolt into the woods of Pinehurst. Of course we couldn't keep up with her, so we'd hop in the car and go searching. I was mostly worried she would dart into the road and get hit by a car. Funny thing was, every time we searched, we could never find her. Without fault, she was sitting in front of the garage every time we got home, just waiting for us so she could go back in the house. She would run until she was tired... Then she would come home. She was funny like that.
She was my best friend. And she was the bestest friend you could ask for. She was always happy, always there to give you a kiss, always wanted to play, and never questioned you. She loved you no matter what. She was always happy just to have you home. She could always tell when you were upset too. She would just sit by your side, and kiss away your tears (if it came to that). She was the best shoulder to cry on. Always listening, never judging. Not much of an advice giver (lol) but that didn't mean she wouldn't make you feel better and feel loved!!
In the last couple years of her life, she lost her sight, and possibly her hearing. (My mom thought she was deaf, but I'm pretty sure she just had selective hearing because she was smart, and she knew she didn't have to do anything anymore. No one would get mad at her. She could sleep all day if she wanted to. And if I ever said the word treat, hot damn she sure came running!) Anyways, I felt bad about her not being able to see, but within a month she figured out where everything was and was still as happy as could be! She was eating heartily and wagging her tail like crazy, just like she'd always done! Although one time, she walked herself into a corner, and couldn't figure out how to get out... So she just sat there and stared at the wall. Haha, it was a little funny to see a dog staring at a wall! Don't worry, I helped her out though!
She was 15 years old when she passed in her sleep. The doc says she had a mini heart-attack. But I knew she had lived a great life and she was as happy as can be all the way until her last day. I was thankful that she was never in pain either. Unfortunately though, I was not home to say goodbye. She passed while I was in Holland playing, just a week before I got home for the holidays. It was difficult, but I was glad I didn't have to see her lifeless. My memories of her are all just the opposite. She was the most energetic, loving little girl. She loved me and she picked me.
Over the years when I moved away to college and to play with the National Team, I was not able to take her with me. I had to leave her at home. She became my moms best friend, and although she'll never admit it, my mom loved her just as much as I did. Oreo followed her around and slept next to her bed religiously. That is, until the I would return home from school or travelling with the US team. That first night, she always came to sleep in my room. My mom says the first night after I would leave, she would also find her way into my room for the night. Bless her little heart, she missed me.
It never ceases to amaze how unconditionally dogs love. People could learn a lot from these wonderful creatures. I would love to get another dog, but I know I cannot with my busy schedule of travelling and playing at the moment. So in the meantime, I just play with all my friends dogs! Hehe.
But its hard not to think about her over the holidays. She stole my heart and she will forever have a piece of it! I miss giving her extra treats on Christmas or a big new bone. Maybe Santa will put one under the tree again this year in her memory! She was and always will be my little angel. RIP.
Although I have millions more memories with dear Oreo, these are a few of my favorites. I am sharing them with the world, but mostly I just wanted to give her a little tribute that I will always remember her by.

Lessons

I will be in the Triangle (Chapel Hill/Raleigh) area for the next couple months and I will be running lessons for individuals and small groups. Contact me if you are interested!!! It should be fun!

Holiday Season

Since Thanksgiving, I've been on a holiday kick! I love this time of year and I love the fact that I can spend it at home with my family all month! Not only have I been super busy decorating (lots of DIY items!), but I've been working on my cooking/baking skills with some delicious holiday treats. Almost every evening has consisted of lighting my cinnamon apple candle, snuggled on the couch with a Christmas movie on TV. Elf has been watched 3 times already! Also, I've been so productive that pretty much all my Christmas gifts are bought and wrapped! Yes, it is only December 7th. haha... a bit ambitious, I know, but I can't help myself!!

Anyways, I wanted to get all of this done early so I have lots of time to enjoy it! But mostly so I can spend the rest of the holiday season doing what is most important. Spending time with family and giving back to the community! This weekend, I'm headed up the New Hampshire to visit my grandmother, uncle, and cousins!! I haven't seen them in a few years, so I'm super excited to see all of them!! Also, I'm planning a few trips to the children's hospital to spread some cheer with the kids! Maybe make some snowflakes and holiday treats! This is what really this time of year is all about! There is lots going on in the next few weeks, so stay tuned for all my adventures!

Christmas Trees!!

Homemade Wreath and Peppermint Tree

 

Treats at A Southern Season :)

 

Cookies I made:

AND a little hockey in the rain! :)

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving has come and gone. Although it is one of my favorite holidays... (who doesn't love eating as much delicious food as they possibly can, sitting around with family, and watching football/napping all day!) ...I didn't get to spend Thanksgiving at home with my family this year. As some of you probably know (because you saw me there!), I was down in West Palm Beach, FL at Festival. (I know tough place to spend my holiday weekend). For those of you that don't know, Festival is a big tournament for high schoolers and middle schoolers in which most college coaches attend to watch and recruit. I attended Festival all four years of high school and this was the first time I have been back since!

The beautiful Florida weather drew me in from the moment I stepped off the airplane Wednesday afternoon. The main reason I was participating in this years Festival was to help with Dita, my amazing sponsor! They do so much for me throughout the whole year to make sure I have everything I need in order to be successful on the field. Not to mention the stick they made me just for the Olympics!! While I helped run the Dita tent for the weekend, I also signed autographs, had some great conversations with players and parents, saw lots of hockey people (coaches and players alike), and even got to play a little bit!

Overall, it was a great weekend! I had a blast playing with some old and new hockey friends! I enjoyed seeing all my hockey friends in one place! And I enjoyed hanging out with the Dita people, learning a bit more about what goes on behind the scenes with my sponsor!

In the Thanksgiving spirit, I must give a quick thanks to all those that have made so many things in my life possible.
I must first thank Dita for all they do! Helping out was the least I could do to give back for all they do for me. I had a great time with all those on staff and can't wait to help out again!
A big thank you to all those who bought my stick this weekend! You guys are awesome! I hope you enjoy it!! Because it is a pretty great stick! ;) [PS- It's still for sale online!!!]
Also, a big thanks to all those who came and chatted with me at the tent. I had a wonderful time meeting so many fantastic people. It's funny how field hockey is such a small community... we all know someone in common. Definitely some amazing hockey families out there who do so much for our sport and it's future! Can't wait to see some of your faces on the National Team one day! :)

I am grateful for my health and the opportunity to play the sport I love. Field hockey has given me so much over the years. This year's Festival really reminded me of that. I have made so many great friendships that will last a lifetime. I saw a lot of those great people in FL- including my college teammate/roommate: shout out to Liz! I saw many of the coaches who have guided me over the years and have led me to where I am today. And I played with and against some hockey friends, National Team teammates, and people who just love the game. To me, that is one of the best ways to enjoy the game! Plus, I got to play for Jack and Jill (a mixed team), with and against some of the guys... which if you know me at all, you know I loved! :) I always love a good challenge with players faster and (possibly) more skilled than I am. ;) haha....
I can't forget to give my gratitude to Momma Sandra and Maren for one of the most scrumptious Thanksgiving dinners I've ever had!! Along with all the great people I had the pleasure of spending the evening with! Quote of the night: #hashtag ! haha....!

The biggest thanks of all must go to my FAMILY. They support me no matter what. They make all things possible. Fortunately, I still got to see their beautiful faces (through Skype!) on Thanksgiving day and my Aunt even stayed until Tuesday so that I could see her when I got home! We Skyped with my cousins when I got home, as well. So I was still able to see lots of family this past week!


I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday weekend and had a little time to reflect on what they are truly thankful for. Just because Thanksgiving is over, we shouldn't forget it's importance throughout the year. If you are reading this right now, then you have a lot to be grateful for! Don't forget that! In the coming weeks, do everything you can to show the ones you love how much they mean to you, how thankful you are for them, and give back to those in need as much as you possible can!

What was your favorite part of the Thanksgiving holiday?? What are you most thankful for? Anyone have a funny family story from the weekend? Let me know! Best responses will win a prize!

Beyond Sticks Clinic

This past weekend I ventured up to McLean, Virginia to coach a clinic with Beyond Sticks. My teammate, Claire Laubach, also joined me in coaching the 80+ girls that showed up! It was an amazing turnout and we had a great time!! I must start by thanking Chrissy Lewis, owner and coach at Beyond Sticks, for setting everything up for the amazing day of field hockey! Also, a big thank you to all the coaches who came out to lend a hand. Last but not least, the girls who showed up! Thank you for inspiring me and making the day so much fun!

I started off the day with a 2 mile run into the Capitol, stopping by the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the White House. The last time I was in DC for for our Olympic visit to the White House to meet the President! It definitely brought back some good memories! Being in the Capitol never ceases to amazes me. It is such a great reminder of what our country was founded on and it always makes me feel extremely patriotic. (Although I feel pretty patriotic most days anyways!) I also got to meet up with a high school friend for a little bit who lives and works in DC. That was fun too!

The biggest part of my day was the clinic though. I wasn't sure just how many girls would show up, but was amazed with the support we received! With over 80 players from 3rd grade up to high school seniors, I was impressed with their excitement and willingness to learn. Claire and I introduced them to some basic drills that we do with the National Team to give them an idea of what we do everyday. We wanted to give them a little taste of what it's like to be on the National Team for the day. After a day full of hockey, the girls got a chance to meet us and ask questions. Some good questions included what it takes to make the National Team, and what advice we give to young players hoping to be in our position one day. (Advice I give: work hard, never give up, believe in yourself, and have fun!) The best questions had to be who we met at the Olympics! (Including: If we met Michael Phelps and Ryan Lochte. They sure did love the swimmers!) After taking a few pictures and signing lots of autographs, we had a "chalk talk" with the coaches about National Team tactics. I enjoyed discussing strategies with the local coaches who will further shape these kids hockey futures. They were eager to learn what we do at the highest level, and I think that says a lot about how dedicated they are to giving back to the game and growing it at all levels. This is great for hockey in America!

I have coached camps, but never run a clinic like this before. I can't wait to do it again! I had such a great time thanks to these amazing girls. They inspire me to be better, as a role model and as a player! They are the future of USA Field Hockey, and I'm excited to see what the future holds!

Here are some of my favorite pictures from the weekend! (All Clinic pictures credited to Jack Lewis.)