number one : Instagram Itinerary

Turns out, one of my top five must-haves in life is Instagram. I was cautious at first (who am I kidding? Maybe for five minutes at the MOST) but now? I'm that girl that posts four photos in a row just because. They're mostly photos of my dog, but you know you love those too.

To celebrate this addiction, I'm starting a series of posts called Instagram Itinerary. Because like all English majors, I can't live without alliteration, wit and catchy nicknames. It might be weekly, it might not be. But for this first installment, I think we should get acquainted. If you're going to be coming here every week expecting tea, photos and a comfy seat, you might need a little background... :)

Growing up, I strived and strived to be one of the cool kids. It wasn't until I reached middle school and watched Little Women (you know, the one with Winona Ryder and Susan Sarandon? The one I watch about three times a year and bawl my eyes out? Yep, that one) and the film comes to the part when Marmee says to Jo, "Oh, Jo, you have so many extraordinary gifts; how can you expect to lead an ordinary life? You're ready to go out and find a good use for your talent. And see what wonderful things come of it."

I've lived my life by this quote ever since. Sure, the road has been challenging and unsure at several points. But one thing remains: live with liberty and live doing extraordinary things.

In the last month, extraordinary has maybe been my middle name. I'm saying this is in the most humble way; out of everyone, I was the one who doubted I'd ever do any of these things. But I did them and I thrived. And now, when I look back on these moments, I'm still in awe that it's me in those photos. I'm standing on the other side of things now, just so thankful for the people who pushed me to run, to show up, to do the work, to be awesome and to live. Thank you.

Now for the list:

I've been running. A lot. I'm that crazy girl who's leaving the house before the crack of dawn in running shorts to get to the lake by 6 am. I ran 13.1 miles on probably the hottest 4th of July ever to prove to myself I was ready for my half marathon coming up a few short weeks. Alice pushed me in the most quiet, patient and encouraging way. Plus she made us medals. I mean, come on. #winning

I attended Live Letters v.2.0 and was finally, after all these years, ushered into the cool kids group. I don't think my mouth shut the entire night, I was so in awe of the Mpls music community. I totally witnessed history. I'm truly blessed to say "oh yeah, I know that girl that started Live Letters. Yep. She's so fabulous." Thank you, Sara. I can't wait for 3.0.

I ran a race and got messy. Really messy. On purpose. (I know what you're thinking and yes, I signed up on my own accord. Yikes!) The Color Run 5k is really truly the happiest run on earth. Unashamed, uncontrolled happiness exuded from my rainbow-colored clogged pores. And I wouldn't have had it any other way. Much thanks and overwhelming gratitude to Eric and Steph for running, jogging, color throwing, screaming, dancing and brunching alongside me that day. I might never get these pink streaks out of my hair but I think that only adds to my new cool factor.

My list of dreams accomplished just keeps growing. And with every dream checked off, another two or three get added. But that's the thing with life. You keep growing, keep moving, keep doing. Otherwise, what's the point? We've been blessed with a life to live. And I'm going to keep living. Who's with me?

Follow me on Instagram here. Let's be friends, share photos and coffee. See you next week!

xoxo,
syd.
sydnee@sydneebickett.com
612.293.9096