“Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
I refer to the year I lived in Austin, TX as the “Taco Chapter” of my life. Partly because I developed a love and appreciation for tacos, but also because I ate A LOT of tacos during that year. Through all my taco eating, I’d often wonder what I was doing there, what led me to the city, and would I stay long? When it was time to move back to Las Vegas, I knew – but looking back on my time there I think fondly of the special people and relationships that naturally developed and still grow today.
In March 2021, I got to visit Austin for the first time since I left 4 years prior in 2017. I visited with friends and arranged to go to Chuy’s with Sandy, whom I met while teaching high school together. Every Wednesday she and I had a standing dinner date at Chuy’s after school! During our weekly dinners, we learned how much we had in common- starting with… a love of Diet Coke, our families, teaching, shopping, and especially our love of and for The Savior. We were not of the same faith, but we focused on the similarities of our faith rather than the differences. When we met again in 2021 she beamed when she talked about her new role as a Granny! I was so happy we were able to get together and catch up.
I learned a few days ago, Sandy passed away the day after Christmas. When I heard the news, I immediately thought of the lunch we shared together in 2021 and the countless special moments we shared through our year of teaching. As devastated as I am, I know she lived her life to the fullest with kindness and love for those she came in contact with. She went out of her way to include me, listen to me, and make sure I knew she loved me. I share this story to illustrate the fragility of life and the importance of celebrating each day. I don’t understand a lot of the struggles we encounter throughout our lives, but I do know in whom I can put my trust.
5. Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not to thine own understanding. 6. In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy paths. – Proverbs 3:5-6.
Sandy and I would often talk about how much we loved this passage, and the many times it brought both of us peace during tough times. I miss her already, but I’m beyond thankful our paths crossed and I got to know her sweet spirit.
Photos by Devin Bendixen – Instagram & Website
Location: Downtown Summerlin
In the coming year, I hope to live every day as it is the BEST day of the year. I’ve also chosen LEVEL UP as my “word” of the year. I hope to level up in all areas of my life and enjoy EVERY day as best I can, as well as share more outfit ideas and inspiration here with you. I’d love to hear your word for the year and what you’re looking forward to, may this year be the best year yet for you. Thank you for reading and following along, wishing you a fabulous New Year full of everything your heart desires… and more!
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Thank you for sharing your heart. My heart is always warmed with the wisdom you share.
I love that verse as well. It’s so comforting.
Prayers for your friend, Sandy, her family & yours as you grieve the loss here on this earth, but the joy found that you will be reunited someday because there is assurance of where she is now! 🙏🏼🙌🏻♥️
I love your word of the year. Something I’ve been indulging in for many years. Funny enough I used the very phrase in my IG post yesterday. ☺️
My word for 2023 is Authentic. I’ve gained confidence in who God designed me to be, and it’s time for me to stay true to that and honor it. Not to be swayed by what the world would dictate. We are called to stand out, not to blend in.
Continue to stand out & level up! 🥰Prayers, Love & Hugs!! I’m coming for you in 2023!♥️