Day 25 Blog

Today was a whirlwind in every sense of the word. I left Egypt at noon on Tuesday (which was still Monday back home in Texas) and after what felt like days of flying, I finally made it back to Texas at 9pm. I am still not home home yet because the airport is about a two hour drive from my house, but just being back feels like crossing the finish line of a marathon.

Egypt was such a blast and honestly should be on everyone’s bucket list. It is breathtaking, full of history, and there is something humbling about standing in a place that existed long before any of us. The people, the culture, the energy, it all stays with you. I will always be grateful for the memories made on this trip.

But now it is time to switch gears. As soon as I walk in the door tonight, it is go time. Everyone is already at my house hanging out and waiting so we can get up around 4am to start cooking. Thank God this house has two full kitchens because that was one of the best decisions I made when designing it. Tomorrow they are both going to be running nonstop.

My VP, his wife, his mom, their whole family, plus my best friend Krystina and her family will be running the LA side of things. I know they will be up around the same time doing exactly what we are doing: chopping, seasoning, laughing, organizing, and pouring love into hundreds of meals. It means the world to have people in my life who carry the same heart for giving back.

Giving to my communities, both here and in LA, is one of my biggest blessings. God has truly given me more than I ever imagined, and my goal has always been to make the world a little better than I found it. I know I cannot change everything, but I can change something. And that something matters every single time.

I can definitely say I am exhausted because flying takes a lot out of me, but even in my tiredness I am thankful. Thankful for the memories I made this week. Thankful for the safe travels. Thankful for every person who has come and gone in my life. Thankful for the people in my home ready to cook with me. Thankful for all of you who take the time to read these entries. And thankful for everyone participating in my 10 Days of Giving and allowing me the honor of giving back in meaningful ways.

I always say this life has shown me highs, lows, heartbreaks, victories, and everything in between, but through all of it God remains steady. And so does my purpose.

Here is to home, to gratitude, and to doing good wherever we can.

Signed, Paulina.