63 likes.

Take a look at this screenshot from a Facebook status I posted on Friday.

Status reads: I lost 9 lbs so far. I am feeling better than ever, and when I looked in the mirror today I smiled. My muscles are stronger and my tummy is smaller. I have a long, long, long way to go but I'm so proud of myself and happy with how things are going.

There are 63 likes on this status and 13 comments. This is, by far, the most amount of "likes" I have ever received on a status. Some are from people I don't even talk to anymore. I was completely overwhelmed by the support I received from my facebook pals. I had no idea that a simple status I posted after a workout at the gym would turn into my most popular facebook post ever.

I am not posting about it here to gloat about how many friends I have. Rather, to tell the people who clicked that little thumbs up sign: thank you. I am so grateful. I cannot do this without the support of my family and friends. The responses to this status assured me I am in the right direction and that I have friends behind me.

The support made me emotional, nostalgic, grateful, happy, and loved. I know this all seems silly to some. It's just a facebook status. But to me, it means the world. God puts people in your life for a reason, and every single person who liked that status have made an impact on my life. Keep reading below to find out how, exactly.

And now you can give me a big eye roll, because I am going to address the people that liked this status. I told you I was nostalgic. This blog post may be aggravating to some, but I have to let this stuff out.





Sr. Brigid- The sisters of Mercy are the ones who inspire me to put God by my side through all my challenges and celebrations. Thank you for teaching me that.

Kelly, Danielle, and Rosalyn- You girls were some of my very first best friends in life. I will always have a special place in my heart for you and I appreciate your support. You're beautiful.

Christine, Geegles, Donna, Katie, Patricia, Jenn, Patrick, Laura- We don't talk that often. In fact, I've never even met some of you. But we interact via social media and I keep up with what you're doing. It means a lot to that you do the same.

 Smitty, Courtney, Minnelle- My mercy girl support will always mean a lot to me. You're all amazing young women and I am happy to know you.

Lizz, Krystin, Julie T, and Mary G- You all have one thing in common and that is that I met you through Sam. I am so grateful you have come into my life and that I can also call you my friend.

Nicole and Dana- Two of my "sisters", thank you so much for your love and support and for being role models for me in college.

Elizabeth, Shari, David B, Babz, Jena, Gem- I met you all through various fansites through American Idol and can now call each of you a true friend. Thank you for always being there for me. Jena and Gem, you are two of my very best friends.

Mimi, Mary A, Carolyn, Kathy, Joanne, Martha- Part of my St. Hugo family, you guys are wonderful people who have touched my life and shown me how to live.

Bonny, Lynn, Shannon, Whitney, Mary Ann- You are part of my family and I will always be happy when I can make my family proud.

Chrissy, Tracey, Julie E, Amy M, Lauren K, Lindsay P, Lindsey M, Caroline, Alison- Most of you have been in my life for several years and I could not imagine my life without you. Through the years you have been there for me, whether you know it or not.

Pam, Amy Z, Cheryl B, and Lynn- You are my coworkers and the people I see every day. You get me through each day.

Alayah, L'Atavia, Theresa, Annie, and Erin- Of all the likes, these are the ones that mean the most. My heart is always happy when "cristo rey kids" and  "youth group kids" are supportive of me, because I want to be a good role model for you. So thank you.

Dad, Mo, JP, Mom, Sara, Alex, Alicia, Tom- You are the group of people that are most important in my life. You are my heart and soul. Don't let me give up.

And finally to the two people who don't need to like my status for me to know ho much they support me. Sam and Lauren. My favorite people in the world, right now, the two who literally are there for me every moment of every day. You guys are my constant, my anchors.