My Niece (So Proud)

I'm just gonna tell you...this girl, right here, has it all going for her. I'm not exaggerating one little iota, either. Just look at her. She's gorgeous. Look deeper and you will see just how sweet, humble, and smart she is, too. She's also a real life go-getter, highly competitive, and focused in academics, sports, and, of course, her diet and health. She posts her videos so others can "build a better you with me." She amazes me. I am her biggest fan. I think she has about 45 followers on her You Tube site as of date, but I expect that to grow exponentially. I believe in her teaching, her tips, and I just love her sense of humor. I know you will, to.

I believe she has about fifteen videos on her site. (She started this about four months ago. The Covid 19 was most likely a huge catalyst to her creativity.) Her videos include information on health, simple exercise regimens with demonstrations, and "healthy" yet yummy recipes she cooks for you. I think in one of the videos, I've even seen her model some name brand fitness outfits where she breaks down the pros and cons of each. She pretty much covers her bases in fitness and health.

Her delivery in these episodes are funny, honest, and knowledgeable. There is little or no intensity, no judgment, and you are bound to get reeled in. She makes exercise and taking care of yourself look so seemingly easy to do. Plus you get the Science behind the process.

I'm going to let you in a little secret. I hate exercise, I hate any type of diet that restricts anything I want to eat. In fact, I hate vegan/healthy foods for the most part. But she makes it all seem like so much fun and the food she suggests looks so good, that even I might try them.

Why do I watch her? Because she lives so far away from me. I don't get Alaana in my life enough. She is my only niece and I have no nephews. We laugh because I tell her she has always and always will be my very favorite niece!

My sister's only child. She looks a whole lot like her mom. Maybe that is one of the reasons I love her so. But neither my sister nor any other family member from our branch can take credit for her athleticism. Her other side is Finnish/Italian and both her father and his sister do the Tough Mudders and triathlon events. She did get my sister's enthusiasm, spunk, love of community and love for good, healthy food. Personally, I think she got the best of both worlds.

Alaana is currently a Dartmouth softball commit. On Instagram, she wrote:

" I am beyond excited to announce my verbal commitment to play D1 softball at Dartmouth College. The countless hours spent doing homework in the car, traveling to tournaments, and spending time away from home has finally payed off. Thank you to my parents, teammates, and coaches who have helped me become the player and person I am today. Go Big Green!"

No matter where she goes in life or what career path she chooses, I have no doubt that Alaana will be a success at any endeavor; but at her age, I am so proud of the young woman she is becoming. It's the fullness of her character, her commitment, and her integrity that I am most proud of. She is a hard-worker and diligent in her pursuits. Yet humble and kind.

I hope you will You Tube and subscribe to her channel. You're gonna love her, too. She has made me a "better me" even if it's not through diet and exercise. Being her aunt has made my world a better place and motivates me to be my best. Thank you, Alaana!