oh happy day

**I've been considering blogging for a long time and finally feel ready. This post was written on December 19th last year. I have edited the time frames mentioned so everything makes sense. Please know this is raw and I hope to learn more about "how to blog". For now, stay with me & feel free to provide feedback. Thanks everyone!**

So here I am..writing my first blog post ever! To say I'm excited and nervous would be an understatement. I feel a longing for more in my life and I've found that's a pretty common thing among people, especially people in my age group.

We all go through things that change us, shape us, break us, and teach us how to stand back up again. Since January 3rd, 2016 I've been experiencing the worst times of my life. Because of that, I thought writing a blog would be healing for me and maybe, just maybe someone out there can relate. Someone else can feel joy knowing they're not alone. So let's start from the beginning..

Hi. My name is Carley and I am 24 years young living in Indiana. I love my family, friends, music, fall and all things design! My philosophy? Live your life always seeing the glass half full, never half empty. I've always wanted to live this way and this past year plus I have been able to make my motto concrete in my mind. Another basic fact about me? I have my Bachelor's Degree in Interior Design along with three semesters experience in Architecture. (Hence the love for all things design) That's enough about me for this post :)

So what in the heck made this past year and a half so horrid? I lost my best friend, inspiration, role model, sidekick and comedic relief. I watched my father pass away. The details of that day, more so of that week, are still fresh/bitter to me. One day I will share them to inspire others. What I can tell you is that it was in the blink of an eye while I was alone with him that the call to 911 took place. Something I want to make very clear is that we all are so strong and have so much potential inside of us. During times like this we can choose to run away or stay calm and think about everyone but ourselves, On January 3rd, 2016 I learned how strong I am. I learned that we all have this unspeakable strength with in us. The trick is being brave enough to let it out.

Stay tuned :)