EXPLORE: throwback thanksgiving thursday

Happy Thanksgiving, hope it was full of good company and delicious treats!

I got Pumpkin when I was 8 years old, a time when I was completely obsessed with getting a puppy, (oh wait I still am). One day after school my parents FINALLY took me to a rescue dog shelter to see what was available and Pumpkin happened to be there, it was love at first sight and I was sure that he was the dog for us. The owner told us that another family had come in earlier and was interested, she would let us know if they decided not to take him. Low and behold that other family was my neighbors. I was completely devastated and jealous when they came home later that night with him and cried for a good 48 hours. Within the week they realized Pumpkin and their other dog were not the best playmates and they offered Pumpkin to us- a major moment in my life, I got the dog of my dreams! Pumpkin was a rescue dog from the Bronx who was kept in a cardboard box yearlong. This sweetheart of a dog passed away two years ago on Thanksgiving morning. Today will forever be a day I look back on the overjoy I felt receiving him and all the amazing times we had over the years as he became a part of the family.

Thanks Punk

Today and everyday I am thankful for my two amazing parents who have supported me through every single decision & opportunity in my life, given me the chance to travel and explore as much as possible and inspire me with their continuous hard and artistic work.

I am thankful for my family full of artists, teachers and creators.

I am thankful for the amazing, strong, smart and world traveling friends I was lucky to find growing up in Nyack.

I am thankful for UDel giving me my crazy, supportive and loving roommates, my incredible boyfriend and sorority filled with ladies I respect and love more every day.

I am thankful for all the opportunities and risks that have come my way, the travels I've had, the tough times that made me stronger, the people I've met and most importantly I am thankful & hopeful for a bright future ahead.

Be thankful for the time you're given to be happy, free, creative, powerful, give back, learn and make the most of it. See the best in those around you and see the best in yourself.

Give as much as you can.