Beautiful

People magazine came out with their annual "Most Beautiful People" list this past week and Christina Applegate was their #1... I have to say that although I do think Christina is beautiful, it's not just her exterior that put her at the top this year. Inner beauty has got to be what pushed her to the front of the pack as she courageously fought a battle with breast cancer and ultimately had a double masectomy to prevent any future altercations. It made me happy to see that although all around us we see what the definition of beauty should be.. we can still take a step back to appreciate strength, courage, optimism, and the beauty that the eye can't see...

I want to talk about some of the most beautiful people in my life...

1. My sister Dawn (far left) is the most thoughtful and kindest person you will ever meet. She places the needs of her family and friends ahead of herself all of the time. She is constantly thinking of what she can do to help someone out, lighten their load, and be that shoulder you can rely on.

2. Carli- "the Blonde" is beautiful because she is constantly trying to better herself. She has had to endure some difficult trials in her life but has risen to the top and become a strong and independant person. Her constant growth- in various aspects of her life- amaze me and make me so proud of her!

3. Brandee- "the baby" is beautiful because she is what she is.... she will tell you what she thinks about anything- your clothes, hair, what you say, etc. but it's nice to know that you can count on her to be honest. She's an incredible athlete and has a talent for cosmetology.. she gives 110% to every endeavor that she pursues.

4.My mom is beautiful because she is strong. She has set an example to her girls that women can be independant, have an opinion, work hard, and stand up for what they believe. A big reason why all of us have been successful in life is due to my mom and the things she taught us. She is very selfless and will take time out of her day to help anyone out. She is creative and pays attention to detail.. making sure that anything she does is done perfectly!

5. Shelly- (who happens to be single if you know anyone) is a loyal friend, willing to joing me in any crazy adventure. She will laugh or cry with you and not judge you if it's the hundreth time she's seen you broken hearted. She is not afraid to speak her mind but does it with love and compassion. She's not ashamed of who she is- a sports loving, concert going, non-cooking, t.v. addicted girl that can hold a conversation with just about anybody. (thanks to her mom)

Although I think all of the women in my life are gorgeous from the outside.. it truly is the inner beauty that stands out to me.

So I am curious... who do you think is beautiful??? It can be anyone... your family, friends, celebrities.. Let's celebrate the inner beauty that we hear so much about but never focus on!!