50 States of Pray – Texas

50 States of Pray Banner Dec 24

Our friend from Hawaii, Mark Koopmans created a bloghop that is perfect for this time of year. All that’s required is to take a moment and about 100 words. Share a prayer, a thought, a memory, a hope and even a regret about the past and/or a wish for the future. Click on the badge for more information and to check out some of the other states represented.

I have had an inspiring year since being back in the states. Even though I lived in an challenging, but exciting foreign country for five years, it pales in comparison to all that I have experiences in the last year being back home. I’ve reconnected with my family and friends and made some new one.  I have seen president’s sworn in and legendary leaders put to rest. I watched some of my favorite famous people having the most creative (Beyonce’s unannounced album release), record breaking (Peyton Manning) and genuine and sincere(Jay Z in concert) year of their lives. I’ve discovered the kind of books I want to write and what I hope to accomplish with my writing. I’ve read 50 books (The Great Gatsby was my favorite) and saw 43 movies (I can’t decide between Star Trek Into Darkness or Iron Man 3). Most important, I’ve started to live my life the way I want to live it. In one sentence, “I’m feeling blessed.”  I can’t wait to see what life has in store for me in 2014. 

I’ll be taking the rest of the year off, but wanted to wish everyone a blessed holiday and a HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!

 

 

 

 

Michael Voltaggio

Sticking with my theme of bring people to your attention that I admire for not so much who they are but what they do and what they put out in this world. Michael Voltaggio deserves a place in my blog for being passionate about his craft. He is the Season 6 winner of Top Chef and recently opened a new restaurant in LA called INK. I can’t wait to try it.

Of course he is totally my type, very cute, confident (cocky – all about your perspective) tattooed man who is creative and passionate about what he does. If you have been to Ink. let me know what you thought. If you have negative opinions about Michael (see previous post) keep them to your self. I am not saying he is a great man, I don’t even know him. But, he can cook and has the skins on the wall to prove it.