For Those Who Know Me Well

Today is my birthday. That doesn't matter much to me...those who know me well, know that I dislike my birthday. So far, however, it has been quite fantastic. Weeks ago, I purposely booked a shoot for today; that way, I would enjoy at least a few hours of it, and have personal satisfaction from flexing my creative muscles. I spent Friday pulling garments for the shoot, and knew for a FACT that today was going to be a huge success. Now that the shoot is over, I can say without a doubt that it indeed went great.  More to come on that...

Last night, my Madre and I went for a late dinner and wine. We had so much fun goofing off and laughing (and me drinking wine), and in a bit of a flash, I quickly reflected on the past 25 years my life. Once again, those who know me well (and I mean really well) can truly understand exactly where I've been, where I am now - and all that was in between. Even then, it would take a novel for me to thoroughly share. I have always known that I am an old soul; at 25, I feel like I have covered at least 50 years. And even when I say "50 years", to me that sounds so young and fresh. I am so blessed to have both of my parents with me, both of them healthy and happy. And my siblings...where do I even start? My heart swells when I think of my brother and sisters. My life without them would be like...well, what comes to mind is a Parisian street untouched by Chanel. Empty. Each one of them has blessed me with a beautiful niece (Cristin one-upped 'em and gave me 2), and I can truly say from the bottom of my heart that I live each and every day for those girls. Aalyah (9 1/2), Madison (3), Makaela (18 mos) and Sailym (17 mos) literally comprise the sole purpose of my life. If, at 87, I look back and reflect over the decades (whilst lounging poolside in Spain, wearing a vintage Marchesa, drinking a glass of Merlot), and can truly say that I made these beautiful girls proud - I think I can safely say that I succeeded. And of course, I won't need to be reminded of the verbal contract I made with Aalyah when she was 3 (followed by her initiation of a yearly renewal): When Auntie Carlene dies, she is to leave "all of her fashions, bags, shoes and jewelry" to Aalyah. Yes, I agreed, but that was before the 3 younger ones joined the club...I have complete faith that Aalyah will do what is right ;)

Perhaps when reading my blog, people will conclude that I live for fashion, and nothing else. That has some truth to it, but (and for the 3rd time...) those who know me well, know that there is FAR more to me than fashion. I hope that on this journey of thoughts blogged; you can all see who I am, why I am here, and what it is I intend to accomplish. In the meantime, please enter each blog the same way that I try to live my life: with an open mind, open heart, and free spirit.