Day 27: Letter to the Friendliest Person I Knew for Only One Day

Dear Mister,

Years ago, I was traveling back to Louisville after visiting a college friend in Tennessee. I had already been stuck where I was due to car trouble. I had just enough gas money to get home. I am driving along, and guess what? I ran over a dead animal in the road. POW!!! My tire blew. This was the 1^st time this had happened, I’d never changed a tire, I didn’t have AAA yet, and so I was sitting on the side of the road. I was pulled over for only about 30 seconds with my head in my hands…when you pulled up behind me in your old beat up Toyota Camry. You and your very young son got out of your car, walked up to my passenger window and asked if I was okay. I wasn’t. You said you saw what happened, had noticed my Louisville Cardinal license plate, you were originally from Kentucky, and wanted to know if I had a spare tire. I did but was very weary. You changed it and then asked how much further I had to go. Once I told you I still had a couple of hours, of me having to fix my car, I had no money, you simply said to please follow you because there was no way I would make it back on that spare tire. I was in the middle of nowhere, you were a stranger, and I was very scared. But you did have your son with you, you were kind, I had 911 set on my phone, and I did need help. So I followed you carefully to a service station. You bought a decent used tire to put on my car and gave me your number so that I could call you once I made it home, just so you would have peace of mind. I was grateful and thankful; you were my angel that day. I did call you once I made it home; I got your address, and sent you your money back even though you told me not to worry about it. You went out of your way to help me that day; you could have kept driving like all the other people. I know I never have stopped on the interstate to help someone, and more than likely never will. I have never forgotten you and I sure hope you have been blessed. The kind act that you made is one my father would have done as well. I am sure he was watching over me. Thanks again.

Thankfully,

Misty

Day 26: Letter to the Last Person I Made a Pinky Promise To

Wikipedia: “The pinky swear originally indicated that the person who breaks the promise must cut off their pinky finger. In modern times, pinky swearing is a more informal way of sealing a promise. It is most common among school-age children and close friends.”

I honestly cannot remember ever pink promising anyone, ever. So this topic doesn’t really relate to me.  The other night I watched the newest version of, “The Karate Kid”. In the movie, Jaden Smith’s character pinky promised the little girl their promise to each other. He was to attend her try outs for a special music school and she was to attend his karate match to the bully.  I thought it was cute is why I remember. But that’s the closest thing I can remember to a pinky promise.

Sorry this blog wasn’t too interesting, but it’s hard to expand on a topic that I don’t have a story for! LOL

Day 25: Letter to Someone Going Thru the Worst of Times

Dear Kara, Mrs. Barbara, Q, Lury, Belinda, Sherri, Allen, D Cov’s Fam, and those mentioned families,

This topic was for someone I know going thru their worst of times. The truth is, I don’t know anyone who is going thru the worst time of their lives. Most people I know like myself, aren’t doing exceptionally great nor just terrible. We are all doing ok and things could always be worse. But here lately my heart has been heavy for you all. Several friends lost family members this year. Last night I tweeted that for many people, time has passed so they forget your pain. Plus, they see you smiling and joking, but they don’t realize that at least several times a day, your deceased loved one has crossed your mind, and you smile anyways. With this being your first Holiday without these loved ones, I remember to pray for you at night. Thanksgiving has passed but you still have to get thru Christmas and a whole new year. With time, it of course gets better, but at the same time, your lives are changed forever and there is no going back. We only have memories to reflect back on this Holiday season.

It started with Kara’s father. I have known you since 2002. I was affected so deeply because while your father was sick, it reminded me of my father being sick. So when he passed, it hurt me so much because I knew there were no words to say. Just as when mine passed 12 years ago. You are a daddy’s girl just like me. Your family is close, just as mine is. But we both know our daddies are in Heaven, watching over us. What makes me feel better about our situation, is that the Starks family lost their father this year too. Difference is, they didn’t have time to prepare like us. He was murdered instead. I have known the family since 1986. When I got the call from my sister early that Saturday morning, I thought I was dreaming. Larry’s murder effected the entire city. It still doesn’t seem real to me,. The Starks family is like family, no doubt. Seems like some people came out of the woodwork with the tragedy and I know everyone is still learning to deal with the fact he was taken so suddenly. To Daniel’s family & friends, he was a great person. Hadn’t talked to him since college, but seen him out frequently. This shooting too, was uncalled for. Someone’s anger and ignorance took over their mouth and temper, to the point of murder - not self defense. Many of us go out to the club to have a good time. In the same respect, we know at the end of the night, we are going home to get in bed that night. Daniel didn’t, now his family and friends have to deal with the fact he is gone and his murderer may not have to serve time. I pray that justice is served. Finally, Allen. We were pretty close in college, us being neighbors and all. When I was out late creeping, I thought you were too. Turns out, you were on-line to become a Sigma. Haha. You recently just got back on FB; and even more recently, your mom passed away. Although I don’t know the reason, I am very sorry for your loss.

I know this Holiday is going be really tough for you all. Just know that you are in my mind and heart, as I am sure many more people are thinking of you too. I love you all. If anyone needs anything, don’t hesitate to call!

Love always,

Misty

　

Day 24: Person Who Gave Me My Favorite Memory

Tanner's birth

Dear Tyler and Tanner,

You 2 little boys have brought so much joy to my life. The memories you have given me thus far in your short lives is unreal. I cant remember what life was like before you were born. When I first moved back to Lexington, my life was somewhat in a mess. Seeing Tyler’s face and hearing him talk and seeing how happy he was to see me, made the world a better place. Tyler you are 5 now and growing into such a big boy. Sometimes talking to you is like having a conversation with an adult. Tanner was born after I moved back home. So handsome. You are now 2 years old now. You are at my favorite age, that makes me laugh at every little thing you do. Your curiosity, your learning, and your grin. Its all priceless. I don’t think you two have any idea how loved you are. There are so many children out there or even adults that have never been told they were loved. Your mom and I grew up away from our immediate family, so we didn’t have aunts and uncles around to spoil us or give our parents a break. Your Nanny and Grandpa had to be accountable for us always. So as lucky as I am to be able to watch you grow into men at such a close range, you too are lucky to have me. I take you to all the fun places, buy you stuff, let you play in the bath, give you junk food, and play with you. You always tell me I’m the best Woo Woo in the world! And I bet I am the only Woo Woo in the world, LOL. Tyler you began to call me woo woo after I used to feed you baby food, I would say woo woo woo woo to get your attention. I got it from Sinclair on the TV show, Living Single. So, when you began talking that’s what you called me. I am making scrapbooks for the 2 of you, so you will be able to look back and see your childhood. I love you two as much as I would love my own children. An ex manager, now dear friend Robin, has 2 nieces. Before you 2 were born, I admired her love for those 2 little girls. They were her world, the center of her life. And still are of course, even though one is now in college! I now know how she feels and the joy they brought to her life. So thank you boys for the many memories, laughs, and joy you bring to my life. Memories from learning to walk, talk, ride bikes, feed yourselves, use the potty, and play sports. I have been there for it all and will always be here! Love you boys very very very much!!! Love, WOO WOO



May 2010

Dec 2010

Day 22: Someone I Want to Give a 2nd Chance To

I dont really have any friends in my life that I am bitter towards or that I need to forgive. I'm not one really to hold grudges. Life is too short to be bitter and to hate those that we love. You can always forgive, but doesnt mean we forget. So in this case, I guess I am giving a 2nd chance to school. I am only a semester away from graduating with my Bachelors. Recently I decided to go back and finish because it was once something very important to me. Life got in the way and I put it on the back burner. I want to be an example to kids that look up to me. My nephews are growing so fast and I want to be able to show them it can be done. I too, of course, will expect my future children to go to college. They will need to see that their mother done it, even if it took longer than originally planned. My brother, Wade, took a break from school and then went back to finish. So he was an example to me, that it is possible. I am a LOUISVILLE CARDINAL fan forever and always! :) I easily could have applied to UK, gotten my credits transferred....NOT!! Haha. I have to be a UofL Alumni, sorry CAT fans! I wouldnt have changed my undergrad years for anything. I met some of the best people in the world! I had great managers at the planetarium. I have some really great girl friends. Attended many parties.The guys were fun too. Thru Louisville Ladies Football Program, I came out of my shell and became confident. Being away, I learned to survive on my own when I had to. Of course accomplishments sometimes come with mistakes. I have learned from both my good times and bad ones. So now that life has slowed down, I have regained my focus and am ready to finish my degree. Im not getting any younger and I have a feeling life is going to speed up again soon!

Day 21: Letter to Someone I Judged By Their First Impression



James singing in pink polo

 Dear James:

I know this letter is random, but the reason probably won’t surprise you. Maybe, maybe not. Tammy will probably find it funny.  This letter was a difficult one because most often we judge people by their first impression. That is how we immediately form an opinion or decide whether or not a friendship will form or not. Since I am not usually wrong, but I was about you, so you stick out in my mind. When I first started working at Nicholas, I believe you were wearing a pink polo shirt. When you talk, you use your hands. You are soft spoken. If I remember correctly, you were particular about never wearing brown and black together as it is a no no. I would have sworn you were a gay man. LOL!!! You know more about certain topics than maybe any man should. You have a sensitive side to you as well. You are kind and caring, which are only a couple of reasons why your wife loves you so much and makes you a great husband to her. On the other hand, you have your guy nights with your boys. You love manly movies and being a daddy to your precious baby boy. I now know that you consider yourself, what was the word? Metro-Sexual? You have married a phenomenal woman. Ironically in a weird twist, I knew her thru Sarah when we were in elementary school.  Small world.  Scary I know you so well, huh? But I was very wrong, you are not gay, and I would like to think you wouldn’t be offended. Not that there is anything wrong with people that are in any way. I love all people! But yes, I did judge you wrongly when I first met you…Sorry! J

Sincerely,

Misty

Beautiful Family

Day 20: Letter to the One That Broke My Heart the Hardest

Todays letter isnt to anyone in particular because I dont know who it would apply to:

At this point in life, I am not so sure that my heart has been broken. I believe I have been hurt, lied to, deceived, and disappointed. But I can’t say that I have honestly had my heart broken. There have been times in my life when I was deeply saddened by other people’s actions and thought I wouldn’t be able to move on due to circumstances. There have been times that my heart hurt so bad that I couldn’t sleep at night. There have been times that my heart hurt so bad that I couldn’t eat. To be broken means to have to put the pieces back together. Therefore since I haven’t had to put the pieces back together, I don’t know that my heart has truly been broken. I can definitely say it has been wounded or hurt, but not shattered. It has been patched but not needed to be healed just yet. I am a strong woman, and it takes an awful lot to bring me down.

I would like to think I haven’t broken any ones heart. I would be open to say there are people out there that may have been ready for more than I was at that particular time, but they understood. Hence, I know of people from my past that have moved on to be married, have children, or both.  I have always tried to be open and honest so that no one gets their feelings hurt. It hurts less for someone to be upfront rather than lead someone on and in the end, they are crushed. Hurt people, hurt people. I would never hurt anyone intentionally; which is why I have respectful friendships with people from my past.

At the end of the day, we need to remember to love ourselves more than anyone else. Especially those not worthy of our love in the first place. Real love is unconditional. And I know the one person who will never break our hearts, He is my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Day 19: Letter to Someone That Pesters My Mind, Good or Bad

Dear Jack

I saved your life last November. I went with Mindy, Justin, Tyler, and Tanner to get you at the Humane Society. Tyler was wanting a dog or a cat as always. They had already done the dog thing and Mindy said no more dogs. So a new kitten it was! I think it was more of a bribe since Justin was going to Iraq for a year and a new animal was supposed to fill a void for Tyler. I personally have always hated cats, thought they were gross and evil. We looked for a while. Mindy was trying to get Tyler a big fluffy one. I said no that’s too girlie and Tyler needs to pick. So he held several, and I thought you were so pretty and had short hair, so I knew you wouldn’t shed much. I was hoping he would get you because you were so cute and sweet. And he did!! Well you were only 10 weeks old and the people put you in a box, and off to the Sams’ household you went. Tyler named you Jack after Tanners toy, the jack in the box. One week later, I went over after church and asked where you were. Justin had a funny look on his face and looked at Mindy. I said again, where is he? Mindy finally said, “I put him outside”. So I asked, “How long ago?” She replied, “About an hour ago”. Besides the fact that Tyler had thrown you down their flight of stairs and up against the wall in his room. She said you used the potty on her carpet, well she had your litter box upstairs!  L I was in shock! You were so little and it was so cold outside. I just knew you had run away and were gonna get run over by a car or starve or freeze to death! Funny thing is, I don’t even like cats, and not sure why I cared. I ran to the back door, looked outside, and there you were curled up in a ball in the corner of the house trying to stay warm. I brought you back in, and you purred. Your little motor was just a running.  It broke my heart, so I texted my roommate Sarah and asked her if she was allergic to cats. She wrote back yes but why. I told her and she said to bring you home! So, I did just that.

13 weeks old

I never had a pet growing up, but I learned quickly how to care for you. I must say you are spoiled! I’ve bought you every kind of toy imaginable. You eat dry food, but you get wet food once a week. You get fresh water several times a day (thanks to Nanny). Your food bowl stays full. You get treats every night when I get home. You drive me crazy with your constant need of attention; I thought cats were low maintenance. Boy, was I wrong! You don’t shed bad, so that’s good. I’ve never had a problem with you using the bathroom on my floor. Although, I hate having to clean your litter box. GROSS. You are so nosy. You sometimes wake me in the mornings when you climb on my dresser looking for my hair ties. You don’t bother me when I sleep anymore; I think you learned to know better. Instead, you lay outside my room waiting for me to wake. You like to pull up corners of the carpet, which drives me insane. What is up with that?? I love how you look up at me with curiosity. I love how when I get home, you are waiting on me; you climb up and sit in my lap to be petted. You don’t scratch me nor bite me. Overall, you are a pretty good pet. But you still have ways that pester me. You are loved. Even by Nanny, who claims to hate you. I personally think she will miss us both when we move out. J

1 year old

                                                        Love,                                                        

Momma



Day 18: Letter to the Person I Wish I Could Be

Dear Myself,

The person I want to be is the person I am working on. I am a work in progress. I want to be successful. I want to be financially comfortable. I want to be a wife. I want to be a mother. I want to keep growing in my relationship with God. I want to not have to depend on anyone, although I know we all need others. I want to be free. I want to be able to make choices and decisions without worrying about judgment. I want to be able to say what I want without people getting their feelings hurt or people thinking less of me. I want to be able to give in abundance to the poor.

To become the person I wish to be, I have to continue on my path at my pace with Jesus, work hard at numerous jobs, remain faithful, and quit trying to please everyone around me. I need to just put my happiness first.

This was short and sweet, I know myself and I know what needs to be done to be who I want to be and how to get there. Patience is key!

Day 17: Letter to a Childhood Friend

May 2010

Dear Pebbles aka Jacqueline!

I have known you for the majority of my life. Your Uncle Junior owned Lewis Daycare that we attended. Your mom worked there too. Junior and my dad would take us to Redmile with them sometimes. I remember your Aunt Bonnie is who you stayed with most of the time. I remember you had your own phone line and yet my mom would hardly let me even talk on the phone back then, not even to you! LOL. Then after elementary, we went to different middle schools, and a couple of times I walked up to Hi Acres to visit you at the tanning shop. Then high school came and went, never did see you though. You married young and I often saw your ex at Kroger. Funny how we go our separate ways in life, yet everything comes back full circle many years later. Over the past 6 months, we have been able to pick up our childhood friendship right where we left off. Girls night, girl talk, Kings Island, Haunted Houses, one place I’d never been before, and giving wise advice or be an ear when we aren’t quite sure what do to at times. Even funnier within these six months, I go to get my hair cut and your mom was in the salon getting hers done! That same night, we went out together for the first time. Then a couple of months later, I come to find out that one of my good friends is neighbors with your sister! What a small world. That is proof to me, that you belong in my life. Good friends are hard to find. You have a huge heart, sweet & kind person, hard worker, good student, great girlfriend to Chad, true friend to me, beautiful inside & out,and you deserve the best out of life. Here lately you have had some health problems, and I just pray that you are healed from those. Thank you for being you!

Love ya!

Misty

Day 16: Letter to Someone Not in the Country

Taji, Iraq 2010

Dear Justin, I would like to start by saying how proud of you I am. You served our country in the Navy once and now you are back overseas as a civilian to provide for your family. You have made sacrifices for those you love and are a good man. You are my sister’s husband, father to my nephews, and my brother-in-law. I couldn’t have asked God to have provided her with a better man. Although when you 2 first began dating, I wasn’t a fan much. Just goes to show, people change. You are always willing to help with anything. Whether I needed help financially, mechanically, or whatever it may be; you’ve never hesitated to help me. Many times, I didn’t have to even ask. I appreciate everything you’ve done, not just for me but for your family. The first time you left, you missed Tyler’s birth, but I recorded it for you. This time you’ve been gone a year. Your sons know who you are, without a doubt. But in your absence, I have tried to help Mindy when she needs it as much as possible. Which, of course, I have always been a third wheel to you two anyways, LOL. Best part about it is, you never mind, at least I don’t think?? Ha. This past summer you came home for 2 weeks, my car was going all crazy, no mechanic could figure it out. But guess what? You did! You fixed the alternator and belt…its 198k miles and still going strong! You’ve spoiled Mindy beyond words. Anything she wants, she gets. The boys miss their daddy. Just yesterday at moms, Tyler said: Cant I go home and wait for daddy to come home? ONLY TWO MORE WEEKS AND YOU WILL BE HOME FOR GOOD. As the whole FB world knows, as Mindy has driven us all crazy with her status’, you are missed and everyone is looking forward to you getting back safely. This past year has actually gone by pretty quickly, debts have been paid, necessities taken care of, the boys growing up, Mindy learning to appreciate your presence, and you get your job back. See you soon brother!

Love ya,
Sister

Day 15: The Person You Miss the Most

Dear Entire Family,

To those in California: It seems so unfair that you all are so far. Nearly on the other side of the country. We seem to see you only every 5-10 years. The 1^st time I met Grandma and Aunt Bev was so intriguing. I could see myself in you all. I never felt like I looked much like my mom’s side of the family and then to come to California shortly after your visit in 1997, we were able to meet everyone. I am closest to Aunt Bev and her girls. I love yall so much!! J You’ve always been so caring and thoughtful. You’ve opened your home several times and it means so much. I miss Grandma, hoping to see her soon. It worries me that she is getting older and we don’t see nor talk to her often enough. She crosses my mind often. The family reunion we had was nice in 2007, love getting to see everyone, although the last time we seen them, they had changed so much from the 10 years prior! LOL. Regardless of how often we speak and see one another, we are still family, I see my heritage the most in your faces, and you mean the world to me. You all are the closest thing I have left to make me feel close to my dad. Oh, plus I cannot wait to share our family tree and ancestry!!!

To those in Nebraska: Big Sissy and your family keep in contact thru FB and mom of course. We get to see yall once a year usually, which is always great since we are one big happy family, haha. I miss getting to see grandma and grandpa. They are getting older and it worries me I won’t get to see them before I need to. I miss seeing all of my cousins and getting to see their families grow up. I am the only one of the grandkids without child, but I am also unmarried, so that is ok! I miss grandma Marie’s yummy pickles and the REAL eggs for breakfast. I see so much of mom in her siblings. I love that Aunt Fern still sends birthday cards, she is so sweet! Plus, I can’t wait to get to come to meet Lawrence and his family when we come in Dec or Jan. Hopefully Teresa will come too. Even though Wade, Kris, and Curtis dont live in Nebraska anymore, I miss them too. We never get to see them either. Makes me sad, but hopefully in 2011 we will get to see EVERYONE!!

Love and miss everyone!!

Misty Jo

Day 14: Somebody You've Drifted Away From



Prom 2002



Dear Crystal,

I haven’t talked to you since high school. Mindy sees you out and about every once in awhile. She told me you are now married with a child now. I would love to see pictures! I should really come by some time to visit. We used to be stuck at the hip. You were there with me thru my Wayne days, my wisdom teeth & tonsils being removed, every weekend at Champs, and when my father passed. I often wonder how your momma is doing. I remember going with you to Grayson to visit your granny. Once I got my braces, you helped me learn how to turn the thingy on my split palette. Ouch! That was the worst. We somewhat drifted apart when your cousin Kim moved to Lexington. We saw each other less and life got in the way. We both worked to support ourselves and we both had relationships to tend to. I just wanted you to know I still think of you, I miss our friendship, and I hope to see you soon!!

Love ya!
Misty



Fall 1999



Day 13: Letter to Someone You Want to Forgive You

Dear You All,

I did something a several years ago that I am not very proud of. Not many people know, nor do they need to. I’d say it was the biggest mistake of my lifetime. I never got the chance to say I was sorry. I just paid the price in more ways than one. I let a lot of people down by doing something that was out of my character. It isn’t who I was nor who I am. No one else is to blame. I made a mistake and I am sorry. I just hope you all know how sorry I am and have forgiven me. I also hope you don’t look at me differently or think any less of me. We all make mistakes, some worse than others.

Sincerely, Misty Hankin

Day 11: A Deceased Person You Wish You Could Talk To

Dear Steph,

8th Grade 1998

I remember you coming to Crawford in 7^th grade, your family had moved here from Owensboro. I remember nobody else really liked you because they thought you were stuck up. I remember admiring your confidence because I was so shy. I remember your bright blue eyes and pretty smile. You seemed so older beyond our age. You always had answers to everything and had your own grace. We became best friends very quickly. I introduced you to all of my friends and they became your friends too. Erin, Ashley W, Casey H, Tony, John G, LaTodd, Megan, Jessica, were a few in our circle. In middle school, we made a trip to Chicago. We sat together that trip, we were inseparable. Many nights I spent the night at your house. We would sleep in the guest bedroom with that feather bed. I remember you had the most curliest hair ever. To straighten it, you literally ironed it. Your parents, Mark and Cindy, were always so nice to me. We went to football games at Henry Clay because that’s where Miranda went to school at. You and her used to argue a lot. I also remember your parents taking us to the fair Toyota used to have for its employees.



Before Chicago 1997

 High school came, they changed districts, and you were stuck going to Henry Clay. I was trying to convince my mom to let me go to Henry Clay so I could be with you. At the same time, you were trying to convince your parents to let you come to Bryan Station to be with me and our other friends; you won that battle. Freshman year, we remained close. Most of our classes were together. We both had a crush on Jason Decker, we loved that he was Coach Nochta’s assistant. We enjoyed the football games that year, which none of us watched, we all actually snuck in alcohol and hung out in the grassy area. Later that school year, I found myself separating from everyone in our clique and migrating towards a different group of friends. I was in different classes that were more towards academics and some of the people we hung out with were getting into things I didn’t agree with. You and I always stayed in touch though. By the time we graduated, we spoke in passing but never hung out anymore.

last day of freshman year 1999

I went off to college and was working full time. You stayed in Lex, got married, started a family. Then one fateful day, there was a horrible accident. I remember getting a call from my mom while I was at work. I shut down completely. I was beside myself, this couldn’t be happening. But it was confirmed. God took you and Sydney to Heaven that day. What were the odds? Why did He need you so soon? How come you didn’t move out of the way from that falling concrete? I guess you didn’t hear it nor see it. Why didn’t someone shove you out of the way? Why didn’t it fall before you had begun walking down the sidewalk? These are some of the questions asked that none of us will ever know the answer to. I still think of you often. I know Brian is taking great care of Raigann, who is a spitting image of you. We may not have been best friends anymore, but the pain isn’t any less than if we were. I hope your family and friends are healing with the time that has passed. The accident isn’t something I dwell on but the fact that you are gone and watching over so many of us, is what I find comfort in. You were beautiful that last day I saw you and I will forever remember our times together.

Since then, several people have passed away that we have gone to school with. Each time, it doesn’t get any easier. The shock that young lives are taken too early never seems to get old. Amber Hauerman, Jessica Rulis, Ryan Allen, Casey Alexander, Jeremy Pruitt and a college friend Daniel Covington. The song that sticks out in my mind waiting at your visitation, reminds me of you, every time I hear it on the radio:

When I get where I'm going,
there'll be only happy tears.
I will shed the sins and struggles,
I have carried all these years.
And I'll leave my heart wide open,
I will love and have no fear.
Yeah when I get where I'm going,
Don't cry for me down here.

You are greatly loved and missed!
Love Always,
Mistypoo

Day 10: Letter to Someone I Wish I Talked to More Often

Dear Ladies,

I honestly don’t have a particular person in this case, more like several that I keep in contact with. Loren, Ashley, Hailey, Jacqueline, Kristie, Samantha, Toya, Patrice, are to name a few. ( I too wish I were closer to family members that live far away, that I dont talk to near as often as I should) I have been blessed with an abundance of friends, good friends, wonderful women. Most I don’t talk to every day, nor every week. Plus, with social networks it seems we often know what’s going on in each others’ lives without having to call one another. It seems the older we get, the busier we get. It also seems each friend has somewhat of a purpose or a relationship that is unique to each need. Myself and most of my friends are either in grad school, married, having children, engaged, working a ton or a few of all of those things. I often wonder how one of you are doing, I know I should text or call, but then think you are probably busy, or I then forget in an instant that I was going to contact you because I get busy myself. The handful of my friends I speak with on the regular basis are friends from my college days. We always say we need to hang out and that we miss each other or catch up or have a girls night. Truth is, sometimes we do get together and sometimes life gets in the way. What happened to those college days? When we all always knew what we were going to get into that weekend or what we were each doing every night of the week? Or when we all knew each others secrets? I guess we somewhat grew apart when it was time to grow up. I think I can honestly say that each of us are today in a place where we didn’t think we would be 10 years ago. LOL. Not necessarily a bad thing, just truth. Everything happens for a reason, reasons we don’t understand at the time, and that’s why we all have each other. We may not talk that often, but we know when to. I know which of you to call for advice depending on the problem or situation. In return, I know each of you know you can call me to be an ear. I love you all!!!!

Love always and forever,
MiStY

Day 9: Letter to Someone I Wished I Could Meet

Dear Lawrence & Teresa,

I would love to meet you and your families soon. I found you a couple of months ago thru ancestry.com. I am still in shock that I was able to locate your mother and then find you two so easily and quickly. I always knew I had 2 more siblings but never knew what you looked like or if you still had the same last name as I or even where you lived. I was glad to find out that even your mother changed it back to her married name of Hankin. You each have your own families and lives. You two had no idea we even existed, and I know to hear from me, was a shock!! I caught your mom off guard, she was about as speechless as I was once I identified who I was. I was nervous, but knew in my heart that I had to at least reach out to you both. I wish I had found you years ago, but never got around to it or even tried. I am delighted that you both were open about getting to know us and accepting of the fact that we were your younger siblings. I didn’t know what to expect and wouldn’t have blamed you if you had just pushed us away. I cannot believe how much Lawrence favors dad and how much Teresa and I look alike. I am sorry for what the past is, but hope to make brighter memories for the future.
I hope to meet you around Christmas time. That would be the best Christmas present in the whole world!! I will be in contact to let you know of our plans to Nebraska for the Holidays. I cant wait to meet you and get to know you and your families more!

Love Always,
Misty Hankin

Teresa

Lawrence

Day 8: Letter to My Favorite Internet Friend

                                                            Dear Tamara:

In high schoool, we knew each other in passing, but werent really friends. I remember adding you as a friend on MySpace years ago. Then FB. And now Twitter. Thru these social networks, I have come to know you quite well. Updates from you arent ones I pass over like others. I often find myself commenting or caring about what you have going on in your life or what you are doing daily. Whether you are taking Sasha for a walk, your private prayers, going to Zumba, studying for class, or waiting for your husband to get home. I hope when you move out of the country next year, that what you want to happen in your life, happens. Maybe after being less stressed and more relaxed in a new environment, you will be completely happy. I am so glad you married the man of your dreams and I hope all the rest of your dreams come true. I have enjoyed reading your 30 days of 30 letters challenge, so much that it inspired me to write my own. I dont even know what your voice sounds like! LOL. Best wishes to you and your family, near and far.

Love,
Misty

Day 6: Letter to Strangers

Hello Strangers:

There are many types of you, each with your own lives. I see it all and go about my way. Here are some I have passed along the way:

I see you at the store. I see your cart is full. I see you yelling at your children. I saw you drop that jelly and it shattered. You look tired. That lady looks happy, hand in hand with her boyfriend. Your kids are running around in peoples way. I’m glad its not the first of the month! That child is crying because he wanted a toy. Your hands are too full, you should have gotten a cart. Your husband forgot an item and so you had to run to the store after work. Men. You scan my groceries and take my money. You bag them and take them to my car. Thank you.

I see you in traffic. I see you at a stop light picking your nose. I see you texting and driving. I see you driving while putting on your make up and talking on the phone at the same time. I can hear your music because your stereo is up entirely too loud, how rude. I saw you run that light. I saw you pass me as if I were standing still. You should slow down. I couldn’t tell if your seat belt was on, you were going too fast. I pray that it was. All of these things are careless and can harm someone. Please pay attention.

I see you walking down the street. You are pushing a cart, that is your home. I see you picking up cans, you need extra money. I see your long beard, you haven’t shaven in months. You have family, but you don’t want their help. You have no one to depend on, you’ve been disowned. I see you need food. I see you have a drinking problem. I see you standing on the interstate with your thumb up, my father would have given you a ride, but I am too scared. I see you standing there with a sign panhandling, yet you don’t look like you need any money.

Sincerely,
a stranger to you too

Day 5: Letter to My Dreams

                                                             Sleeping Dreams

I don’t really understand you or your purposes. I never remember what happens after being awake for a few minutes, no matter how hard I try. Some people I know can remember all of their dreams. How come I cant? Every once in awhile I may remember bits and pieces. This really frustrates me! The ones I can recall parts of, usually have to do with thoughts or conversations or things in the back of my mind. So random. Recently I dreamed my house caught on fire and all of my pictures burned up. I wasn’t sure if that came from a fear or if it came from watching the news of a house fire. Who knows? Who cares? And what is your point??

　                                                       Future

My future dreams haven’t yet come true. I hope they do some day. I always thought I would be where I wanted to be in life by age 25...um I’m 27 and still a work in progress. My new goal is 35. I hope when we meet again I will be married, have children, a home, and a job I love. Ahhh The American Dream.

Day 4: Letter to One of My Siblings

Dear Sister~

We have 3 half brothers and 2 half sisters, but I am most closest to you. Jerold passed away in 2003, he would have been 47 this year. Big Sissy (Bernadine) who is 43 and lives in Lincoln, NE. Wade who is 39 and lives in Las Vegas, NV. Our “new” brother Lawrence lives in NE as well. And our “new” sister Teresa lives in CA. You are the baby of us all. As children, you always called me Sissy. After throwing several fits as we got older, you finally starting calling me Misty. But in high school, we starting calling each other “sister” LOL and we still do!! Many people say we look alike, but neither of us ever see it.

Growing up: we played barbies, baby dolls, doctor/patient, you sang Billy Ray Cyrus on your Karaoke machine, colored, customer service/customer, we went to the bathroom with each other, you were a couple of years behind me in school - so I would teach you what I knew, and we of course fought too. I remember when mom and dad separated, I had some anger issues and would chase you around and beat you up. So sorry! We both were well behaved for the most part, and when we weren’t and dad had to tell us more than once, we got whoopings. Sometimes I even resented you because I felt as if expectations were higher for me and you got away with everything. Dad was hard on me and you hid behind mom. But now we both know the reasons behind you getting off the hook more often. I wouldnt change a thing, they helped mold us to who we are.

Teenagers: As much as you wont like to admit it, you admired me. Haha. You liked hanging around my friends, we went to Champs religiously, I taught you how to do your make up correctly, and you even kept all of my secrets. You also got on my nerves and we bickered a lot. Then we sort of went our own ways with working, friends, and dating. You had always been a momma’s girl but after dad passed, she and I grew closer, leaving you jealous at times. When I went off to college, she helped to provide some things for me. At times, you would get your infamous attitude. One time in the mall at JCPenny, you punched me in the stomach going up the escalator and I in turn slapped you across the face. That same day, mom and I left you at the mall because you had gone off crying and pouting somewhere. You had a friend come get you while mom and I went to another store elsewhere. When we got home, mom threw all of your clothes into the parking lot….and ran over them back and forth…with her car!!! LOL!!! You then went and stayed with Renee for awhile. We can look back now and laugh. Or at least I can.

Adults: You are now married with children. A great husband and the 2 most wonderful little boys in the whole entire universe!! Remember at your rehearsal, moms queue came on to Boyz II Men’s “Momma”, you had tissue on your foot, I burst out crying with emotion, and couldn’t spit out what I was trying to tell you?!? But what I knew, that no one else did: you were several weeks pregnant. You ended up losing that baby soon after. Not much longer, and you were preg with Tyler. Justin went over seas, you moved home from VA Beach, and I got to be in the delivery room to video record his birth! One of the most amazing experiences in my lifetime. These past 5 years have brought us even closer than ever. Tanner has been here 2 years now and he is the most handsomest boy ever. Thank you for them. At times when I was down, their smiles made every bad day all better. They weren’t only blessings to you and Justin, but to me too. I love them as if they were my own. For all the arguments/disagreements we’ve gotten into, there are times when we have been there for each other in every way. Neither of us are perfect although we try to be - my stubbornness and your know-it-all ways clash often. Sometimes we argue, sometimes we get on each others’ nerves, and sometimes we don’t speak. BUT most times we laugh, hang out, advise each other, confide in each other, and support one another.

It used to always be just the 3 of us; mom, you, and I. Our families live far away and all we had was each other. We share a bond that many families don’t have or some people may not understand. You also introduced me to a wonderful church family. Thanks to True Life Church, I have come to know God, not just know of Him. I hope my relationship with Him continues to grow.

I could never ask for a better sister and best friend. I love you baby sister!!!

Love Always,
Sister

Day 3: Letter to My Parents

Dear Mom & Dad

I love you both very very much. Thanks to you both, I am who I am today; everything from my personality to my good looks :-P! LOL. Growing up, Mindy and I never had to ask for a thing. I now know there were times when times were rough & you both went without just so we wouldn’t have to. You didn’t raise us in the church, but you did instill in us who Jesus was. You both felt that you were forced into religion growing up & didn’t want to do that to us (Mom as a Catholic & Dad as a Baptist). Both Mindy and I now attend regularly. Every Sunday Mom you would do laundry and clean house, while Dad you would take us to the park or Showbiz to get us out of her hair.
　
In elementary you guys divorced. We were then part of a broken home. Weeks were spent with you Mom and weekends with you Dad. I looked forward to weekends with Dad because I was a daddy’s girl. Mindy hated it because she never liked any of the places dad lived and you would make her eat whatever you cooked. So Mom would come bring her McDonalds (she was always the spoiled one, LOL). I loved that you took us to the movies, to your office at 3M, and took us to flea markets. You always made sure I knew to follow directions on anything that was to be assembled (such as cars & computers & household items) so that I wouldn’t always need a man for anything. You wanted me to be independent, which I am very much so. When I was 13, you were diagnosed with cancer. So Mom moved us in with you. Mindy and I had to share a room, which I used to hate. The doctors gave you 3 months to live, you survived almost 3 years. You worked up until you couldn’t hardly walk. You wanted to make sure we would be able to get SSI so we’d be taken care of. On August 25, 1998 you went to Heaven. Mom picked me up from high school my first week of my freshman year, I got home just in time. I grabbed my Bible, squeezed your hand, cried daddy. You didn’t respond. You had a seizure earlier that day. But you barely squeezed back, whispered my name, and you were gone. For the first time in my life, you weren’t there when I cried for you. That was a feeling I would have to get used to. You couldn’t teach me how to drive (moms bf did), you didn’t get to see me grad HS, you didn’t see me off to college, you wont give me away when I get married, nor meet my future children. I still think of you at least once a day. There are moments I am not exactly proud of, but I am sure you would be very proud of the woman I have become.

Mom you have done a great job raising us as a single mother. You accept and love me unconditionally. The summer I was 15, dad made me get my first job. You took me every day until I got my 1^st car when I was 16. I paid for it myself with money I saved. Which, I skipped school and totaled. Oops. So you made me drive your 89 Grand Marquis all that summer to teach me a lesson. You barely made ends meet, but kept us fed and a roof over our heads. Anything extra we wanted, we had to pay for. You always held me on such a high pedistool, so I graduated high in my class then went off to college with high expectations. There are a few actions I have made over these few years that I am not proud of and that let you down. But you have still stood beside me and held my hand. Knowing we all make mistakes and have to learn on our own. I have always dated outside of my race, something you didn’t use to agree with. You were raised different than I. But you never taught us to see race or color. Growing up, you and dad would leave us with Mrs Barbara & Larry (RIP) to play with Dominique (Q), Sherri, and Belinda on the weekends. Those are memories I’ll always cherish. Anyways, by the time I was a senior in college you began to accept my choices more and more. By college, you had met most of my girl and guy friends and realized that the people I chose to surround myself weren’t any different than us. They were good people too.You even came to love Lenny as your own. Hallelujah! J You are the strongest and most caring woman I know. You always put Mindy and I first. You taught me how to love, respect, honesty, and how to appreciate everything. I am organized like you and impatient too. Still, I only hope I am half the woman you are. You are a great mother & grandmother. I wouldn’t trade you for anything in the world. Heck, you even do my shopping for me! LOL. I am both lucky and proud to be your daughter; and to have such a great relationship - is priceless.

I love you both! Daddy RIP - See ya when I get there! Continue watching over all of us children. (I even found my other brother and sister that you had with your first wife, just wish I would have done that before you passed). Life is good and God is great.

Day 2: Letter to My Crush

Dear Randy Travis:

I fell in love with you when I was 3 years old. I grew up and listened to all of your songs and memorized them all. I even still have all of the cassette tapes. “Forever and Ever, Amen”, “On the Other Hand”, “Diggin Up Bones”, “Deeper Than The Holler”, ”Three Wooden Crosses” and “I Told You So” are a few that stick out in my mind. When I was 13 years old, my father got tickets to see you perform in Rupp Arena, as a surprise. But even more surprisingly I didn’t get to go because my mother took us away for the summer. I was hurt and always regretted not being able to go. Especially after he passed away, I felt that was a memory that could have been, that was taken away from me.

A few months ago a co-worker heard on the radio that you were coming with LeAnn Rhimes to perform outside at Applebees Park. I hadn’t been that excited in a long time. It touched me that she thought of me and offered to go with me to see you! I am now 27 years old and never thought I would get the chance to see you in concert!! Of course, it rained most of the time. Yet, I loved every minute and didn’t mind at all. I actually enjoyed it that much more. We even got to come to the field and see you up close. I felt like I was in Heaven, the joy I felt. Worst part was, my camera battery was dead and I didn’t get a single picture. Funniest part was, Gari-Lynn who came with me - told people a little fib to get us so close to the stage that I could almost touch you - that it was my birthday and she was my mother & that my father had passed away & that I grew up listening to you with him (that part was true). But she touched my heart even more that night because she knew what it meant for me to get this 2^nd chance at seeing you in person.

Ironically, today I found out you divorced from your wife of 19 years. I have always found you to be an upstanding man and a Christian man. I truly hope you didn’t cheat on your wife & that the divorce was a result of other issues. I hope the rest of your tour is successful and thank you again for the music you provide to your fans. My taste in music has diversified quite a bit since I was 3 years old, but I still have a love for you.

“It’s not what you take when you leave this world behind you. It’s what you leave behind you when you go”

Love Forever & Ever Amen,
Misty H
　

Day 1: Letter To My Best Friends

Dear Jami and Tiff

The 2 of you have been there when I need you for over 10 years now. You each are so different and unique in your own way that provides to me what I have always needed in a best friend. Jami I have known you since middle school at Crawford but we quickly became best friends freshman year in high school. Tiff I met you thru Jami sophomore year in high school. I know between the two of you, all I have to do is make a phone call and you will be by my side.

Jami. Where do I begin? I have so many memories. J I remember we would sit together during lunch with Whitney b/c the 3 of us brought our lunches from home freshman year. We instantly bonded when we realized the first thing we had in common was the type of men we liked to date. LOL. Soon, you began dating Aaron and I Rob. We would both sneak to meet them. The countless nights of telling our parents we were together at the movies, skating, bowling, hanging out, etc. Good thing cell phones had just became so convenient! You even got your phone & car taken away, so I would come pick you up in mine. By our senior year prom, we both went with our boyfriends. Aaron and Patrick. Both of our parents (grandparents) knew who we went with and the struggle we endured to that point was worth proving to our families that race didn’t matter. Thank goodness none of those men are in our lives anymore! Trial and error?? Haha. Then came college and we stayed as close as ever. We visited often: 4^th Street Live, sleepovers, Halloween, Birthdays (even my bday when we fell out for a few months b/c the cake was left in the trunk & I told you that acting dumb wasn’t cute and when would you grow up! OMG! Sorry!), Avio, and Spring Break in Florida. We have always talked alike; now we think alike, and we can give/take criticism from one another without feelings being hurt. When things went bad with Aaron, you weren’t always able to tell me because I think you know I would have been back in Lex from Louisville in a heartbeat! But when Barry came along and he treated you so good, you got preggers with Peyton, married Barry, birthed Peyton, and are now raising your family - everything else I have mentioned seems to have faded away because we are always so busy planning our futures. I am so proud to have stood by your side thru it all and boo hoo’d thru your wedding. I cant wait til I can be married, we both have children, and they grow up together so we can make more memories to cherish!

Tiff. You are a mess. Have been since day one and I love you for it. J I remember coming to your birthday party out east and realizing we lived in the same neighborhood in Eastland. From that time forward, you were the one I could always run to and tell everything to without ever one time feeling judged. Everything from boy troubles, to needing somewhere to stay, to riding wherever, to backing me up. At the end of high school you transferred to Henry Clay but you always stayed in touch. I always got calls from you at all hours of the night and would listen in my sleep because you knew I would always be there. The other birthday you had that was off the hook and I was the only good one, still brings laughs when I think of you, Ebony, Markeith, Bondo, and your people. All the hard times you had with Tonio and others, seems like you have always and will be the Queen! Haha. The one time we fell out was when you weren’t taking your meds and wanted to end your life. I maybe wasn’t very supportive and said things along the lines of you needing to stop being selfish & that you knew better. You have come so far from that! Plus, God Bless Ms. Kathy! When I got the call that you were preg with Kayla and I had never met her daddy - I was crushed. But when I moved home for that summer and was able to be one of the baby mama’s and be there for you ALL night while in labor with her, made it all ok. We ate Taco Bell every single day and it was yummy! We listened to Mariah Carey everyday and to this day, out of the womb, she knows those songs! I am her ho ho. Since then you have had several ups and downs with health, jobs, men, money, housing, cars, etc. But anytime you have needed me or anything, I have done my best to take care of that need and I take pride in that. This past winter/spring when Lenny moved here, you were there for me for a change. Always a shoulder I could lean on, a ride for him to work, or when my car broke down, or when I needed to vent. You are the ONE person that knows every single thing about me both good and bad. Thank you for always listening and giving me advice with never a negative attitude and encouraging me that this storm too shall pass.

I have many good and true friends that I have met along the way; but you two are the ones who’ve been there since the beginning and I love you both very very much!