Soundtrack to my 2018

I’ve been blogging since 2013, and I love looking back and seeing my growth and also the things I am still working on. This year has been a whirlwind, and when I look back at the pictures, I am still in awe at how our little family survived the hard times, laughed at the great times and learned from the challenges. Ten songs have been on rotation for me all year. I want to share with you my journey through the year by song.

Song #1 All The Stars - Kendrick Lamar f/ SZA

I don't know about you but ever since the Black Panther movie was announced I KNEW I would go opening weekend. I already had my outfit planned out, and I was READY! Not only did the film NOT disappoint but the soundtrack is fire as well. By far my favorite movie of the year.

Song #2 Hard Times Paramore

We had to make an emergency trip back home to Michigan for the health of a family member. It was scary, but I am so glad the trip had good news, and we were able to be around family and draw closer. This year was also a tough time for me personally because I was determined to work on my mental health. Some days are easier than others, at the end of the day even though I have those hard times I know I have my family support and love.

This year was also the year that I went to two amazing concerts. I have wanted to see these artists for YEARS. I got to live out my teenage dreams by not only seeing Justin Timberlake but also 30 seconds to Mars. These concerts did not disappoint at all. I was dancing for both of them. I had to share my two favorite songs from each album. Live music is like no other, so make it a point to go out and see it often. I also saw small performers at local places that were free.

Song#3 Higher and higher - Justin Timberlake

Song #4 Walk on Water - 30 seconds to mars

Of course, when you go tot see JT it had to be a girls night. All three of us have loved Justin since Mickey Mouse days. It was such a joy to go to that concert with these lovely ladies. We sang, danced and screamed until we had no voice. I will always cherish this memory.

My love and I have always loved 30 seconds to mars. They visit Florida often, and we have never had the chance to go. This year we got the chance. There were some characters at the concert, but when Jared Leto came on stage, all our attention went to the band. I love that we are always up for adventures together. I love you babe and can't wait to see what 2019 brings our way. That leads me to my next song

Song #5 Best Part - Daniel Cesar f/H.E.R

This year we celebrated 13 years of marriage. We work hard at being us as individuals and this year was a breakthrough for my mental health. My husband was such great support for myself and our children. I am thankful for you always and forever.

These next three songs are on my list because 1) I am a huge fan of musicals and I can't make a list and not mention The Greatest Showman soundtrack 2) I have been listening to a lot of throwback music this year, 90's in particular. 90's R&B to be specific. I was in need of my Nayhooooooo lol. Charlie Puth had a song this year with none other then BOYZ II MEN!!! Wanya was the KING of Nayhoo. 3) When you have young children is you find a song that makes them dance this year, and it's not just Baby shark that is a triumph lol. For us, that song was by Shawn Mendes. The kids would request this song before out bedtime routine so they can get their last bit of energy out. It's those moments I always think about when I hear this song.

Song #6 Come Alive - Greatest Showman Soundtrack

Song #7 If You Leave Me Now - Charlie Puth f/Boyz II Men

Song #8 There's Nothing Holding Me Back - Shawn Mendes

This year was a year for loss as well. I know a lot of friends who have lost loved ones this year either through sickness or suicide. As someone who has had suicidal thoughts in the past, I implore that you speak up with a loved one, a therapist you can even call the national suicide hotline at 1-800-273-8255. Please don't suffer in silence. If you don't experience that type of pain for yourself, you can still help, be kind to one another; you never know what your friends and family are going through. Sometimes the people with the biggest smile, the ones always making you laugh are the ones dealing with the most. They make you laugh because they know how it feels to have so much pain and they don't want anyone else feeling like them. This song reminds me that you need to check up on your friends. LIfe is hard, we can get wrapped up in our stuff, but we need to check on one another.

Song #9 Robbin Willams - Ceelo Green

This next song is talking about our level up. This year I went on my first solo trip(to Seoul, South Korea!!) I became a better photographer and videographer. My son started school, started swim school as well and worked hard to become a level 3 swimmer by the end of the year(a goal he set for himself). My daughter has grown so much this year. She has become more independent, she loves to pretend to read and she night weaned this year. My husbands business grew, he became a better photographer, and he has made spiritual advancements as well and overall just a great man. We all leveled up. We all attained some of our goals and will continue to work on individual ones as well as family goals. Just remember small accomplishments are STILL accomplishments and don't let anyone make you feel sorry about moving forward.

Song #10 Level up - Ciara