Big Ol' Love

This week is special in the land of Listicles.  I had the honor of choosing this week's topic, and it couldn't have come at a better time. Having lost my friend Marilyn unexpectedly, I was overcome with emotion. In between the sadness and grief, I was in awe. My friend lived a very full life filled with passion for life! She in turn inspired my choice of list.

Where does your heart lie, I ask?

Immediately I thought of my heart in terms of a pie graph.
Remember, I was a first grade teacher!

1. Bryan, Moira, & Maeve = 30%

My heart is truly filled with my greatest loves, my husband & children. They make me, me!

2. My Extended Family = 20%

I've got a huge extended family, filled with aunts, uncles, cousins, great aunts & uncles, second, third, and even fourth cousins, aunts once removed, and everything in between. My family is crazy some literally I do believe, but I couldn't imagine anything different. The chaos at holidays, the full church at weddings, and the extended family tree.

3. Friends = 20%

My mother in law says it all at the time.

"I don't have a lot of friends, but I do have a lot of acquantices".

That's me.

I know a lot of people, but my circle of friends is very small. I will admit, when I was younger it bothered me. I wanted a large group and thought something was missing. I learned, however, over time and through life experience, that those people I consider my friends may be a small list, but they truly are like my family.

4. Our House = 10%

I love our house.

The place we searched high and low to find. It may be old, with a never ending to-do list, but it's the place we are meant to be.

5. The Beach = 5%

In her introduction of me last week, Stasha mentioned my love of the Shore, and there is nothing like that smell of the sea. The sand between your toes, as the salty air hits your face.

6. Laughter = 5%

Kind of sums up #5 & #6. 

Source: facebook.com via Mina on Pinterest

7. The Phillies = 5%

I have been raised on a diet of red and white. In our house, the days until pitchers & catchers report is like the countdown to Christmas. (For the record, it's 12 days today!) If you mention names, like Mike, Jimmy, Ryan,  Chase, & Shane to Mo, her usual response will be "Schmidt, Rollins, Howard, Utley, & Victorino".
It's just how we roll, it's part of her education. 

8. The Union = 3%

Up until last week, this percentage would have been a whole helluva lot higher, and then they had to trade one of our favorite players and the catalyst for the team, Le Toux. Soccer was something I loved playing as a kid, but a sexist coach squashed my dreams of playing growing up. Now, through Bry's love, I too have developed a love for the game and in turn have passed it on to our girls.
I actually take the term "Soccer Mom" as a compliment.

9. Dining Out = 1%

My biggest indulgence isn't shoes or purses. I get anxiety at the thought of buying a piece of clothing or jewelry that isn't on sale. However, take me out to dinner, and I'm in heaven, and apparently I have no qualms of spending money like a Kardashian on Rodeo Drive. 

10. Swimming = 1%

Often I think one dreams of the things they love. Most of my good, happy dreams seem to take place in or around water. Perhaps there's some chlorine level in my blood, as there is no place quite a peaceful or relaxing as a good swim, Even when it's the first time back in over four years!

Looking for inspiration, join in!