PROUD to BE... >*A-S-T*< !!!

Almost five years ago, I made a decision that I knew would positively influence my four-years as an undergrad: to "put myself out there", and go out for
Sorority-Recruitment at school. Little did I know then, that this would ultimately be one of the best decisions I have ever made thus far in my life. 

I proudly accepted the "bid" to begin the new-member process of Alpha Sigma Tau

~~~ Excitedly ready to start my journey towards sisterhood, I could not have ever imagined how big of a role ΑΣΤ would play in my collegiate career. Never did I think that I would be approached to be featured in the national newsletter! 

While I'll never forget any of my moments with my sisters, there is always one phrase in particular, which was said to all the new-members as we were just beginning the process: "It's not four-years ... it's for-life!" 

Alumnae *SPOTLiGHT* !!!

New Year ~~~ New {& IMPROVED} You!

Helen Keller once stated: "Your success and happiness lies in you. Resolve to keep happy, and your joy and you shall form an invincible host against difficulties."

I think we all can interpret that quote in a number of ways, actually. Firstly, in the tangible measurement of
+SUCCESS+ ... but then again, who really can be the judge of our own individual success? I feel that it's not only more realistic, but also more productive, to gauge one's success on his or her own terms.

Now folks, bear with me as I take you on a little journey down "Memory-Lane" of my *2014*. Because, after all, looking back in retrospect is an ideal way to look forward in anticipation!!  

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I reconnected with the first Speech-Therapist I ever worked with, the incredible Brenda Lovette. Back in May 2010, when I first arrived at Spaulding Rehab right out of the St. Francis ICU, Brenda helped me tremendously throughout those first few months of rehabilitation. I am so happy that I came "rediscovered" the sweetest card she had wrote for me as I was transitioning from Spaulding to Crotched Mountain Rehab at the beginning of August'10. 

All who know me are well-aware of my affinity for all things inspirational, especially poems or quotes! I am so happy I rediscovered this particular one! 

RyRy Lynne

February 11, 2014 ·

Keep calm, and put your *~PEARLS~* on ...

 — with Nicole Zuar and Erin Rebecca.

I had been waiting/anticipating again, since that summer, the semester when I would be able to become a "BiG" in my sorority. Well, on the first night of Recruitment, when all the freshmen ladies were taking that first-step towards becoming a member of Greek Life at Marist, I met my LiTTLE, Kolbe!
I knew, almost instantly, that she would fit-in perfectly with my Big, Big-Big, & Big-Big-Big, Nicole, Kady, and Erin!!! <3

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I <CELEBRATED> my *4th~Birthday* on April 18th. No, you didn't misinterpret the number I just wrote... it was my 4th~ALiVEDAY!!! Looking back on that day now makes me excited for what 4.5 months from now represents... 5 years _ HALF-a-DECADE!!!
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Saturday, May 24... a date which will forever be ingrained in my mind as one of the best, most fulfilling experiences of my life. I, Ryan Lynne Farrell, graduated from Marist College with a degree in Communications - Radio/TV/Film Concentration. Strolling (more like strutting) across that stage on my beautiful campus, family, classmates, friends, professors and advisers all looking on...talk about a ~RUSH~

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I was one of a group of individuals to be recognized by and honored at "A Night of Heroes", hosted by the
Lowell Spinners at a baseball-game this summer! 

The ever so lovely Laura Chagnon [lower-left],  a fellow survivor and a beautifully articulate poet, shared her words after this wonderful evening:Seven Stars
Upon this celebration of heroes,
there is a galaxy of stars. 
Seven sparkling lights gleaming, 
each one uniquely graced with its own aura.
Team Hoyt New England led by Rick Hoyt, 
the most noble of all soldiers.
Alicia, wounded warrior survivor, 
her heart aglow with this country’s pride.
Julie, confident and bold, 
a dove with tranquil eyes.
Ryan, soaring to the zenith with enthusiasm,
my spirit alive in her presence.
Jeremy, his power leaping forward, 
steel-clad brilliance, a comet in the sky.
Laura, a peaceful soul of sunshine, 
words emanating from her, 
purely compassionate.
The Hoyt Foundation, 
a legend of great dignity, 
momentously closing the night.
In this heavenly baseball game, 
God hung the moon and stars, 
a field of dreams in the dusk of this lovely summer eve."

How ENORMOUSLY lucky I was, to be recognized at the same time as those individuals! 

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Summer quickly dwindled, as Fall began briskly approaching. Only, this year, for the first-time in 18-years, I did not have school [or out-patient rehab] to attend.
What an adjustment that was!

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BIA-MA Annual-Appeal

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Anticipatory, Excited, Happy, Anxious [in a good way] ... those are just a few words that come to mind when envisioningmy  *2015* !!!