Sunday, June 19, 2011

Daddy's Little Girl

Without fail, I always end up crying during father-daughter dances at wedding receptions. As a self-proclaimed Daddy's Girl, I can't help but get a little sentimental. Last night, I attended the wedding of two friends from college and, of course, I was teary-eyed as the bride danced with her father.

Like me, the bride has a great relationship with her father, who is also a big guy, just like my dad. Yes, my dad may look like a grizzly bear, but I swear he's a big teddy bear once you get to know him. Every time I watch a father-daughter dance, I can't help but think of the day when my own father will walk me down the aisle and we get to cut a rug. Chances are, we'll both probably be in tears.

My father has always been my number-one fan–unconditionally supporting me no matter how big my dreams get. He's always been there for me (honors assemblies, graduations, cheerleading competitions, dance recitals, etc.) and I know he will continue to be. My father has a supernatural ability to make my sister and me smile–whether it's a minor injury, bad day or a painful loss.

Growing up, my sister and I watched our father treat the women in his life–our mom, his mom and sisters, etc.–with nothing but the utmost respect and love, which is why we know how a man is supposed to treat a woman and we won't settle for less than the best.

Daddy, even though I may be growing up, I want you to know I will always be your little girl and you will always be my hero. I love you THIS MUCH. Love, Buttercup xox

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Up, Up and Away!

Throughout my relatively short career as a journalist, I've had the opportunity to do some amazing things. I've interviewed celebrities (Olympic gold medalist Michael Phelps, two-time "Dancing with the Stars" champion Cheryl Burke and "Ace of Cakes" star Duff Goldman), modeled in a teen magazine and gained access to some pretty cool events, such as the LPGA Tournament.

But last night, I embarked on the journey of a lifetime. I had an assignment to write about a local hot air company and decided to tag along with my friend, Nicole, who is one of the magazine photographers. What we didn't anticipate was the chance to ride in the balloon itself. In a word? Ah-mazing. Absolutely breathtaking.

Soaring 3,000 feet above the air, I did not have a care in the world. Overlooking the treetops and expansive farmland, I felt (as cliche as it sounds) one with nature. The ride was serene. I could've stayed up there forever.

It's always been a goal of mine to ride in a hot air balloon ever since my dad took my sister and me to the Preakness Celebration Balloon Festival when we were little. Now thanks to Light Flight Hot Air Balloons, I am one step closer to completing my Bucket List.