CHRISTMAS IN DIXIE

In just about 15 minutes, I am headed to Alabama for Christmas at my mom's. I am so excited! It's the first Christmas I got off from work since I started working in news. The whole family will be there, including my grandmother! Yea!

I had a wonderful birthday...a full week of celebration! On my birthday, I went to lunch with the girls at work--we ate at P.F. Changs. I got several cards, one even had lottery tickets in them. It was my first time playing the lottery, and I didn't win a thing! My mom's gift will keep me from having to pay any speeding fines! She gave me a fuzz buster ( a radar detector for all of you yankees that don't know what that is!). One of the girls at work made me muffins. I thought that was nice.

On Friday, Brett took me to "The Melting Pot." That was so much fun. I really enjoyed it! Then on Saturday, my friend, Lori, and I went out to eat and to the movies. It was a great birthday!

Parents Visit

I got a wonderful early birthday present this past weekend. My dad and step-mom came for a visit. This was the first time they've visited since I moved to South Carolina nearly two years ago. So, it was a special treat. They came Saturday afternoon--I took them to downtown Greenville and showed them the park. Then we went and ate at Sticky Fingers. They really enjoyed it. My dad loves barbeque--and this place has really good food! Then when we got back, my apartment complex was having a Christmas party--complete with free carriage rides. SO, my step-mom and I took a ride. It was fun! They left as I was leaving for church Sunday morning, but it was still a good visit. I was glad they came.

My birthday is tomorrow. I will be the dreaded 29--that's just one year before the aweful age of 30! But I've decided to celebrate anyway--and thank God for another year of life. Some girls from work and I are going out for lunch tomorrow to my favorite--P.F. Changs. Then Friday, Brett wants to take me out for my birthday. We are friends--that is all. And I am happy keeping it that way. Saturday, I plan on celebrating with some girlfriends from church. So, lots of birthday celebrations this week!

My mom sent me a gift a couple weeks ago--and it's driving me crazy, because she won't let me open it until tomorrow--we're almost there!

WEll, gotta go to the gym. I was sick in the bed all week last week, so I haven't worked out in quite a while.

Merry Christmas!!!

SHOUT "MERRY CHRISTMAS"

Twas the month before Christmas,
When all through our land,
Not a Christian was praying
Nor taking a stand.
Why the PC Police had taken away,
The reason for Christmas - no one could say.

The children were told by their schools not to sing,
About Shepherds and Wise Men and Angels and things.
It might hurt people's feelings, the teachers would say
December 25th is just a 'Holiday'.

Yet the shoppers were ready with cash, checks and credit
Pushing folks down to the floor just to get it!
CDs from Madonna, an X BOX, an I-pod
Something was changing, something quite odd!
Retailers promoted Ramadan and Kwanzaa
In hopes to sell books by Franken & Fonda.
As Ikea were hanging their trees upside down
At the Bay the word Christmas - was no where to be found.

At Staples, Wal-Mart, Future Shop and Sears
You won't hear the word Christmas;
it won't touch your ears.
Inclusive, sensitive, Di-ver-si-ty
Are words that were used to intimidate me.

Now Daschle, Now Darden, Now Sharpton, Wolf Blitzen
On Boxer, on Rather, on Kerry, on Clinton!
At the top of City Hall, there arose such a clatter
To eliminate Jesus, in all public matter.
And we spoke not a word, as they took away our faith
Forbidden to speak of salvation and grace.

The true Gift of Christmas was exchanged and discarded
The reason for the season, stopped before it started.
So as you celebrate 'Winter Break' under your 'Dream Tree'
Sipping your Starbucks, listen to me.
Choose your words carefully, choose what you say
Shout MERRY CHRISTMAS - NOT Happy Holiday

Blue Ridge Saga

When I was in the concert band in high school, we used to play a beautiful song called "Blue Ridge Saga". I never completely understood that song until now. The song is about the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Well, I drove up to the mountains a couple weeks ago and spent time driving the Blue Ridge Parkway. It was the first time I had been there, and let me tell you, it is absolutely beautiful. James Swearingin must have written that song about the mountains in Autumn, because with all the leaves changing, it was a spectacular site! I took lots of pictures, but they really don't do it justice. The Blue Ridge Parkway runs from Western North Carolina up into Virginia. I just drove about 30 miles of it--but it was absolutely gorgeous. Really breathtaking.

Seriously!

What's the deal! I love Christmas more than the average person. I mean, for the whole month of December, I usually listen to nothing but Christmas music, and my house is decorated extravagantly, and I wear Christmas sweatshirts, christmas socks, and jewelry during that time. But seriously, why can't we wait to celebrate Christmas after Thanksgiving? The day after Halloween, I turned on the radio, and guess what! Delilah is only playing Christmas music now--can you believe it? And last weekend, I went shopping. I walked into one store and heard Christmas music. I walked into Wal-mart, and a huge Christmas tree greeted me at the door.
Christmas has gotten too commercial. I remember when it was more about Jesus and family, and not so much about the bottom line. I am looking forward to Christmas--I just want to celebrate Thanksgiving first!

Speaking of Thanksgiving, I have to work. But my mom, step-dad, and grandmother are coming to see me next weekend. They will be here Saturday through Tuesday--we are planning to have thanksgiving dinner while they are here. I am so excited to see them. I haven't seen them since March.
Then on Thanksgiving day, my friends, Heather and Mike, have invited me over for dinner. So, this year I am blessed to not have to spend the holidays alone--as I have done in years past. Christmas--I finally get to go home! Yay!

This week is going to be a busy one, so I don't know how much I will update. Tonight, I am having dinner with Brett. It's not a date--we are just going to talk. I am a bit nervous. I haven't really talked to him since the beginning of summer, so I really don't know what to expect. Then tomorrow, the kids at church have their first junior Bible quiz match. I help with this, so I will be heading to Columbia with them.

Next week, I have the dreaded yearly doctors appointment (lots of fun). And on Wednesday, I have to go to court. Some crazy guy called work and started threatening some of our reporters. I just happened to be the one to answer the phone. So, I have to go testify in court. Fun, Fun. I really didn't want to go--I've never been to court before. But the officer said I didn't have a choice. I got a summons. I guess bad guys need to be punished, and the only way for that to happen is for me to testify.

I am still taking dance lessons. We are learning the Cha Cha and the Tango right now. I really love it. Just wish I had a partner to dance with. Right now, I am dancing with the instructor--a woman. That's every Friday night--so I will be going to that tonight before dinner.

Well, time to go take a nap.

This is another cool picture I took while downtown Greenville for Fall for Greenville. I absolutely love this park. It's in the middle of downtown, but has two waterfalls! Isn't that cool. I think it's beautiful. Folks hang out down here all the time, and on many days, you can see artists sitting and painting the scenery. Just another reason I love Greenville, South Carolina.

Happy Halloween!

Okay, so I don't usually celebrate Halloween. But a friend of mine has this huge Halloween party every year and she begged me to go this year. I decided to dress in the 50s and go as Sandy from Grease. I made my poodle skirt that I wore that night, but none of the pics show it very well. And I don't think I make a good blond, either. What do you think? I am pictured here with my friends, Jasilika, who dressed like the 70s, and Heather, who dressed as someone
addicted to plastic surgery. Anyway, it was something to do--it got
me out of the house. It really wasn't me, and I probably won't go back next year, but it was fun to dress up and pretend to be someone different for a day!

My Friend, Olivia

I just wanted to introduce you all to my new friend, Olivia. She is 11-years-old. I met her last year at a junior bible quiz match and we became quick friends. She is so special. I don't know why, but God has just really given me a burden for 10-12 year old girls--preteen's that are searching for their identity in this world. I believe God sent Olivia into my life for a reason, so I am just trying to be a good role model and friend to her. These are pictures from our recent trip to downtown Greenville for a big festival they had there.

Curvaceous!

About three weeks ago, I got something in the mail, asking for volunteers for a fitness study at Curves for Women. Well, it was free, so I decided to sign up! I am happy to say, I finished the study on Wednesday. At the end of the study, they assess your weight and measurements, among other things. I am happy to say I am 5 pounds lighter and 4 1/2 inches smaller than I was three weeks ago! So, I decided to join Curves. It's a lot of fun! YOu are constantly changing machines throughout your 30 minute workout, so it isn't boring at all! And it doesn't make you sore! So much for the "no pain, no gain" slogan.

Well, this weekend is going to be a busy one for me. I have a candle party at a friend's house tonight, and then tomorrow night, I will be dressed for the 50s for a halloween party. A friend of mine throws this huge halloween bash every year. This year, I am going as Sandy from Grease. I will post pics later!

Have a great weekend everyone!

Baby Girl!

I just learned my friend, Noelle, had her baby girl Sunday.
She's so beautiful, I just had to share her picture. She weighes 8 lbs, 9 oz.
They haven't named her yet. Here she is:

Love's all that Matters

I absolutely love the new Carrie underwood Song "So Small".
Here's the chorus:

Cause sometimes that mountain you've been climbingIs just a grain of sandAnd what you've been out there searching for foreverIs in your handsAnd when you figure out love is all that matters after allIt sure makes everything else seem So small

Click on the link to see the music video--it's really good!

http://www.cmt.com/videos/carrie-underwood/175952/so-small.jhtml

Turning 40 Can be Harsh!

Okay, so I went to a friend's birthday party over the weekend--and all I can say is--wow! Steve turned 40--and so we had some fun with that. The sign as you walked in the room said "happy retirement--that word was crossed out and said oops--birthday.
All of his gifts were gag gifts--for example, I got him a walking cane. He also got Rogaine, Just for men hair color, and those were just the nice gifts. He also got serenity pads, and preparation H--among other things! The good news is about 65 people showed up at the party--it was held at Olive Garden, so needless to say it was a bit hectic--but I think it turned out well.
Steve told me the next morning that he was so happy to see all his friends gathered. He said usually you find out how many friends you have at your funeral--but he got find out at his birthday. He was very happy.

Mustang Sally

So, I just have the overwhelming desire to just get in my new car and head to the country so I can drive! I absolutely love my car--I still can't believe I own a Mustang! One of the guys at work walked in yesterday. I was at work a bit later than usualy, which is why, until now, he hadn't seen the new ride. He said who's Mustang is that out there? And everyone said "nicole's"--and I just smiled--he said some things about it being a really nice car, then sat down to start his job. It still made me feel so great! I love that I have a car that everyone loves! Maybe I'll go for a ride later today--after my nap.

I think I've about gotten rid of the fleas. Casey and I aren't itching as much as we have been--and I haven't noticed any new bites on me in a couple of days. So, I'm pretty happy about that!

So, it's beginning to look like November is going to be a pretty busy month for me--but I am so excited about it. My mom, step-dad, and grandmother may come for a visit before thanksgiving...then after thanksgiving, my sister and brother-in-law may come. I am so happy. I miss all of them so much. That's the only drawback about living in South Carolina. I hardly ever get to see my family.

On my sister, Lisa's blog, she wrote about a song--and it made me think about being back home. I do miss the quiet surroundings of a small town. Gordo's not much, but it was my home for my school years. I don't think of it as home anymore, but I do enjoy a good visit from time to time. Looking forward to the holidays when I am hoping to be able to go home and spend a few days in the "boondocks." that's another song I just love.

Well, gotta go start my weekend--Have a good one!

Excuse me, I've got an Itch!

Okay, so I love my dad, but I am not happy with what I brought home from his house. He lives out in the country and everything has been so dry that they have a flea problem. Well, guess what! I now have a flea problem! I am trying to get rid of them, I really am. But myself, and my poor dog, Casey, both have bites all over. I have bought carpet powder, stuff to spray on the furniture, and even stuff to bathe him in, but we are both still getting bit! And I've washed everything--all the towels, sheets, and clothes in my house. I feel like I have coodies or something. Anyway, if I can't get rid of them--I guess I'm going to have to get a flea bomb and bomb the apartment.

This weekend I am going to be quite busy. I have two birthday parties to go to. One is for my friend's little boy--who is turning 4. the other is for a friend of mine. I'll have post pics of that one. it's going to be great!

Well, got to head out. It's time to go to Flea War!

Sweet Home Alabama

I spent the weekend in Alabama at my dad's. He lives in a town called Cedar Bluff, which is near Gadsden. I got there on Friday, and just kind of hung out. I was sad to learn that my dad had closed his restaurant. They just weren't getting the business they needed to stay open, since there are no vacationers in town this year. The lake is about dried up because of the drought, so boats can't even get into the water on Weiss Lake. It's really sad!

My sister, Lisa, and her husband came up for a visit while I was there. We spent the day in the pool, which was nice and relaxing, and daddy grilled out for lunch. It was just a really relaxing weekend. Daddy doesn't really care for my new car. Of course, he's a Chevy man, and can't understand why anyone would by a Ford.

I won't be back in bama again until the holidays--but I am really looking forward to it. And my mom and step-dad may come up for a visit in November--really looking forward to that.

An Opera Great Dies

"I think a life in music is a life beautifully spent, and this is what i have devoted my life to." -Luciano Pavarotti (1935-2007)

Early this morning, world-reknowned tenor Luciano Pavarotti died from a battle with Pancreatic cancer. He was 71. He was known for hitting notes that many only think about hitting. If you watched the 2006 Torino Olympics, you saw Pavarotti sing. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZaufjDVYivc

He was amazing, and his voice will be missed.

Buttprints in the Sand

One night I had a wondrous dream,One set of footprints there was seen,The footprints of my precious Lord,But mine were not along the shore.










But then some stranger prints appeared,And I asked the Lord," What have we here?"Those prints are large and round and neat."But Lord, they are too big for feet.""My child," He said in somber tones,"For miles I carried you alone.I challenged you to walk in faith,But you refused and made me wait."

"You disobeyed, you would not grow,The walk of faith, you would not know,So I got tired, I got fed up.And there I dropped you on your butt."

"Because in life, there comes a time,When one must fight, and one must climb,When one must rise and take a stand,Or leave their butt prints in the sand." -author unknown

VACATION OVER--BACK TO WORK

Well, my vacation is over and now I am back at work. But it was such a good vacation--so relaxing! So much so that I hated coming back to work. But I do feel much better since I'm back. I don't feel all burnt out anymore and I am able to do my job with some ease. I even got a compliment from one of my anchors--he told me I was missed.

Savannah and Tybee Island were awesome. We had so much fun! We spent the first night on Tybee.

It was a small, very quiet beach, which made it very relaxing. We were beach bumbs Wednesday and Thursday. We also visited the Tybee lighthouse--and climbed all 178 stairs!
Man, that was tiring! And my calves hurt for the rest of the week! But what a view from the top! You can't get this view from the ground!



After the lighthouse and the beach, Jill and I got all dressed up and went to dinner at a restaurant just across the street from our hotel. It was all you can eat seafood--and it was really tasty!

We headed to Savannah on Thursday, where we visited the River Walk,
went on a Ghost tour, and just leisurely walked around town.

We also ate at several tasty restaurants, including Lady and Sons --that's Paula Dean's restaurant. And you won't believe it! We got there at 11am and walked right in--no wait!

We went on a riverboat cruise, which was really relaxing.

We had planned to spend most of Saturday in Savannah before

coming home, but we ended up coming home early since

it was pouring rain. I'm glad we did. I found out later it flooded in parts of Savannah.
So, it was a great trip. I didn't realize how much I missed Jill. Now, after spending a week with her, I hate to let her leave. We roomed together for a year and a half.

I just wish we could convince her to move here! But I am sure it won't be another eight years before I see her again. I want to go see her in D.C.

Jill is Here!

Here's my old roomie and me! I just picked her up from the airport in Charlotte. We went downtown Greenville, and we got caught in the rain! So, the pics not the greatest, but I had to share my joy of seeing my old friend.

My trip to Asheville

A few weeks ago, my friend, Heidi, and I went to Asheville, NC, for the day. We had so much fun! Here are some pics!



This is Me and Heidi in front of the Basilica of St. Lawrence

this is me in old Asheville

I don't know the significance of this statue in downtown Asheville, but it is quite the attraction!

This week has been just horrible! So, the Headache I wrote about earlier in the week turned out to be a bit more than a headache. I was in the bed for two days--sick with not only a headache, but an upset stomach, too. I also had a low-grade fever. I did work all week, but anytime not at work was spent in the bed. Thank goodness I am feeling better now! It's hard to work when you don't feel good. But when you don't have any sick days left, you don't have much choice! That's what happened to me. I have migraines sometimes that make me miss work--they account for most of my sick days--so when I am sick, there's usually not any days left for me to take.

It's Friday again! That means, I get to sleep when it's dark outside! I am so excited. Plus, this weekend is the "Really Good, Really Big, Really Cheap" Book sale. Isn't that the greatest name? Anyway, it's this huge used book sale where you can get books for $1-2! All the money goes to charity. I absolutely love to read, so this book sale is like paradise! There's thousands of books to choose from! So, I will be heading up there bright and early tomorrow morning to get the best selection. Then I've got drama practice with two of the girls from church.

Today, I am taking my friend, Heather, to eat at P.F. Chang's. her birthday is next week, so we're going to celebrate today.

11 days and counting until my vacation--only 8 until Jill gets here. I am so excited!

Horrible Headache

Right now as I post this, I don't feel good at all. I have had a migraine all night long. I got it right before it was time for me to come into work, so I couldn't call in. So I have had to work all night with it. I wanted to go home, but another girl called in sick, so I was forced to tough it out.
I took medicine, but it doesn't seem to want to work. I really wish I could get rid of these horrible headaches! I had so much I needed to do today, but I guess I will have to go home and go to bed.

Praise the Lord, It's Friday!

Hallelujah, it's Friday. I am so tired and so burnt out at work. I am just counting the days until my vacation. I go on vacation on August 29-September 3. My old roommate, Jill, and I are going to Savannah, Georgia, and Tybee Island. I am so excited--not only because I will be off for esveral days, but because I get to see Jill. She and I haven't seen each other since 1999! So, this will be quite the reunion! SHe is flying down from Washington, D.C. on August 25th--and we will meet up that day with another old roommate--who just happens to live near Charlotte, where Jill is flying in! It's going to be great!
I am still loving my car. I still can't believe how blessed I am. God is so good! I haven't taken it anywhere yet--just around town, so I am looking forward to Savannah, when I can really see what it will do!
There's not a whole lot going on right now. I am happy to say I haven't heard from Brett in two weeks. I guess he finally got the hint.
My roommate, Heidi, and I went out with some friends from church last weekend. We went out to eat and then to Frankie's fun park to play! We played putt-putt, then I got in the batting cages, and they all went in the arcade. It was lots of fun.
Don't really know what I am doing this weekend. I know today I am going with some of the girls from work to get our nails "did". And then tonight, I have my ballroom dance class. I am loving it--I am learning the waltz and the rhumba. Other than that, it will probably be pretty quiet. Heidi has a friend in town, so I am sure they will be out and about all weekend.

It's a New Car!

2007 Mustang

Guess what everyone! I finally got the car of my dreams! I have wanted the new Mustang ever since the new model came out in 2005. Well, I started saving. So, with the down-payment I had saved and the good deal I got, I can't beat the payments I have now. God is so good. I just look at it and almost cry all the time. I have been driving a car without air conditioning for several years now. During that time, I lived in Alabama, Florida, and now South Carolina. So, anyone who's lived in those states in the summer knows how hot and humid it can get. Now, I am driving a car with power windows, power locks, air conditioning, and a cd player. It even has a dock for an Ipod! So, God has really blessed me with this car. And it's brand new. When I drove it off the lot, it had a whopping 29 miles on it!

This is a picture of me and my salesman as he handed me the keys. It just so happens, the guy who ended up selling me the car is the husband of one of my co-workers. So, he treated me really well.

It's so funny. Since I got this car, I have been getting a lot of attention from the opposite sex. I think guys aren't used to seeing girls with muscle cars! So, guys will stare in intersections--when they see me watching them, they just nod and smile. I even got a note on my door from a guy who lives downstairs in my building! It's so funny. But I'm not interested in a guy that only likes me for my car!

Man Hater

Okay, so for once, I have a personal life to complain about. I guess I should be thankful that I have a personal life...much less a complaint. But right now, I am so mad at men--and upset with myself for trusting them! Okay, so maybe not every man--just one right now.

Okay, so here's what happened. Brett and I decided to make up and be friends. That was a little over two weeks ago. I was very happy with that decision. But a week later, he's contacting me--wanting us to be together again. He told me that I was the best thing that ever happened to him and he thought we had a future. Now, a couple of months ago, I thought the same thing, but in the last two months, I have been able to see things in him that I really don't want in my life--and for sure not in a marriage. So, I told him that he had a lot to work on before I would get back together with him. I told him I still wanted to be friends, but I told him I wanted him to better himself for him, not for me, because I wouldn't promise him a future.

Well I was so proud of him! He started really working on a bunch of stuff. He even asked me to help him with a budget. I was really cautious about doing that, because I really didn't want to know his business. He just bought a new car--a car he really couldn't afford. So, I was not real happy with his spending habits. Well, I told him if we did a budget, then I wasn't going to waste my time. He was going to do what I asked him to. He agreed. So, we got together and worked him out a budget to stick to.

He promised he would stick to it--even went grocery shopping so he wouldn't have to eat out so much--then I find out he didn't even wait 24 hours before he got off the budget! He got so mad at me when I confronted him about it! I think he was mad because he got caught! But needless to say, we had a big fight. And I never want to talk to him again! I care to much about him, and he seems not to care, so my view is why should I have to deal with it if he doesn't care about any of it?

From this point forward, I wash my hands of Brett. I want nothing to do with him. I mean, how is it my fault that he can't get his act together? He made me so upset--so upset that I probably said things I shouldn't have.

And on top of that, he lied to some of our friends. HE told them we were dating again--something they later confronted me about , because they knew how I felt about the whole situation. I will not be with someone I can't trust.

The greatest fear I have is I will lose our mutual friends. But they all tell me that I don't have to worry about that. They've also told me that they agree Brett is not good for me right now. They see the same things that I have seen--things I was too blind to see the first time. So, for now, Steve, Joy, and Heidi are all still my friends. I just hope they will continue to hang out with me--especially since the only times Steve, Joy, and I ever hung out was when I was with Brett.
But I really don't think I have anything to worry about with Heidi. She's planning on moving in with me this weekend--if everything works out. That's right! I am getting a roommate! I am really excited about this, but at the same time, very cautious. I haven't had much luck with roommates in the past. But I haven't had a roomie in about six years, so I really hope that I am a better person now than I was then. Heidi and I have both done a lot of praying about it, and her mother, and our pastor, who just happens to be her uncle, both agree that this would be a good move for both of us. However, my family has tried to talk me out of it. My little sis even gave me a huge lecture about it the other day. I was surprised! She usually likes to stay out of everyone's business, but I am glad she decided to tell me. I value her opinion, even if I don't agree with it all the time.

So, for now, I am so glad I am single. I really want to get married and have a family. I mean, I am 28--i'm not getting any younger! And I pray every day that God will send the *right* man into my life. But for now, I am going to enjoy my singleness. God has already answered so many of my prayers this year--I know he hasn't forgot about this one.

Update

So, I know it's been forever since my last post. I must apologize. But I really haven't had that much to say. Things are getting better for me. I am healing from the recent losses in my life. Brett and I talked over text for the first time since we broke things off the other day. We are both still a bit gun-shy of being friends, but I think maybe we can get there eventually. Things at work are okay--we are going through some changes in management--and that's always hard. So, please pray that I will get through it without losing my sanity. Otherwise things are great!

Vacation Hot Spot?

I have some time off at the beginning of September. I want to go someone on a nice, relaxing vacation. Getting a nice suntan could be okay, too! Does anyone have any ideas? I will probably be traveling alone, so I am not willing to go outside the U.S. If you know of any really cool places, let me know!

Breaking Up is Hard to Do

So, maybe it's really not considered a break-up when you think about how long we dated, but Brett and I were together so much for five weeks--and now we are no more. With all of the emotional stress I've been under lately, I needed some time to get my emotions in check. I asked him if we could back off a while--just so I could focus on getting better--but I guess he wanted all or nothing. So, he decided to completely break things off. I didn't want that. I just needed some time. But I guess it's better that it happened now and not six months from now.

My emotions are really raw--Three people in my life have died in the last month--two from work. And it's really been hard for me to cope. I am getting better, but I'm just taking one day at a time.

I went back to the gym yesterday--they say exercise gives you endorphines that make you happy--and it really did make me feel a bit better. I had to switch gyms, so this was my first time at the new gym. I am going to continue to go.

This weekend, I plan to spend most of my time with friends--I think that will be good. Friday night, I may go out with some friends from work--and then on Saturday, myself and some friends are planning to go to Freedom Weekend Aloft--it's a big hot air balloon festival here in the upstate.

Please Pray

The last three weeks have been very hard for myself and many close to me. My heart is heavy this morning, and truthfully, I'm not quite sure if I can handle anymore. Last night, one of my co-workers was killed on the job. I've always been told how dangerous this business is--but you don't really think about it until it happens to you or someone you know. Joe Loy was covering a story when a car hit him. Please pray for all of us at Fox Carolina and for Joe's family.

This is just the latest tragedy. My best friend, Niecie's, brother died last week. He was a cancer survivor, and his death at just 14-years-old came as a shock. I spent the latter part of last week in Birmingham with Niecie and her family. They also need prayer.

And one of my co-workers died about three weeks ago after losing his battle with lung cancer. We sort of expected this, but it doesn't make it any easier.

They always say people die in threes. Just never knew there would be three people I knew all together like this.

100th Post

This is my 100th post. Hard to believe! Guess I have a lot to say! Anyway, hope all is well with everyone. Things are good here. Going to Bama for a quick trip this weekend. Really hoping to get to see my sister while I'm there.

This month is really busy for me. Next weekend, I'm going to Mobile. I'm going to be spending Mother's Day weekend with my grandmother. I really can't wait to see her.

Then the following weekend, I will be in Savannah, Georgia. I've never been--and I'm told it's wonderful!

Luckily for me--I'm not driving on any of the trips. So, thankfully, my pocketbook won't suffer this month from the gas prices too bad.

Have a great weekend!

Flowers for Me!

Okay--so I haven't updated on the guy I went out with. Well--we are still seeing each other, and if these flowers I got last night are any indication, I would say things are going pretty well! They were sitting on my desk at work when I came in last night. Aren't they beautiful? Tulips are my favorite. He found that out when we went to the Biltmore Estate on Saturday--I guess he was listening!

This weekend, I will be spending the weekend with him and some of the kids at church. We are going to Alabaster, Alabama, for the regional bible quiz tournament. I am looking forward to going 'home' for a couple of days.

Things at church are good as well. I went to the pastor's house for lunch after church Sunday. His family is so awesome! They have 4 children--all so precious! I am rooming with the pastor's wife in Alabaster. Looking forward to that!

Well, gotta go!

I'm so Tired

I wish I wasn't so tired! I can't seem to get my energy. It's probably due to the fact that I haven't been in the gym since before the wedding. My house is a mess--since I'm so tired all the time, I don't feel like cleaning. And I wouldn't normally care. Because up until this point, I really didn't have any friends that I had to worry about just stopping by. But now, with my new church, I do have friends, and some of them know where I live. So, now I must at least keep the front part of the apartment clean. I'm not complaining--I just wish I wasn't so tired! I guess that comes with working third shift.

I can't believe I get to go to Alabama--even if it is only for a couple of days, and even if I will be busy the whole time I'm there. I love South Carolina, but at times, I really miss Alabama. That's home--I grew up there, and will always look at it as home. But I can't imagine moving back there. I really do love it here, and hope I'm able to stay here for a good while.

Now that I'm meeting people, and I have a church, it feels even more like I belong here. I got an email from the pastor of the church yesterday just telling me how glad he was that I am a part of their church family. They really are people-oriented, and it shows!

Well, I'm heading home--probably to do a load of laundry, and then head to bed. I slept all day yesterday, but I really don't want to do that today.

Hope everyone's having a great week!

I've Met Someone

This is a pretty exciting post for me to write. I went on a date yesterday. And I really like this guy. His name is Brett. We spent all day together--he brought me home about 8:30 last night--after dinner. BEfore dinner we went to an arts festival in Greenville. It was really fun!
I met him at church about a month ago, and we've been getting to know each other since. I am very cautious about writing this because I don't want to jinx it, but I wanted all you friends to know this good news. Just a little about him--He's a teacher, and he's from Alabama--can you believe it? I'm in the Carolina's and I met a good ole Alabama boy! He's also in ministry in the church. I'm so excited, but at the same time really cautious. My dad told me to be careful and not get my heart broken. I know that you have to be willing to get your heart broken in order to open your heart to anyone. So, while I know that that is a possibility, I want to see where this leads. I am also praying about this deeply. Because I want what God wants for me. But I've been praying that the Lord would bring a man into my life, so I am just testing the waters. Please pray for me that God would be at the center of everything we do and we will allow Him to lead us in this. This is so exciting!

For all of you that live in the Alabaster area--I will be at Kingswood A/G in two weeks. They are having a bible quiz tournament there--and I'm going as a chaperone! Brett is actually one of the people in charge of the junior bible quiz team here, and invited me to go...so it will be interesting to see how we do spending the whole weekend together. So, for you who live in that area, stop by the church and look for me. I would love to see you!

Well, I have to go. get ready for church I just wanted to share my news. I will keep you posted--but right now, I have a good feeling about this one. He's different from anyone I've ever dated--and I think that's a good thing.

Directions

I just got the funniest email from a friend of mine. It made me laugh on an otherwise bad day. I really hope you get as much a kick out of this as I did.

directions from New York to Paris

Go to Google.com
2. Click on Maps. (Above search space)
3. Click on Get Directions. ( Top of page)
4. From New York, New York
5. To Paris, France.
6. And read line # 23.

What you think? Are you in enough shape to make it?

April 14

Today is April 14th. Can you believe it's already the middle of April? Time is flying--and I hate it. I feel like my whole life is going by so quick. I can't believe I'll be 30 in a couple of years--and half of my life dreams have yet to come true. I know God has a plan--I'm just trying to wait on Him.
Speaking of the Lord--isn't he wonderful? I know this is corny, but at the beginning of January, I was having a really hard time--and so, I made a list of everything I wanted to see God do this year in my life. It wasn't like I was making demands or anything--more like I was having faith that He would see me and understand what I needed. I wrote down the list in my journal, so I would have something visual to keep track of it all. The other day I looked at that list. It's only April and half of the things I asked God to do--He's already done. Isn't that awesome? I asked Him to bring me to a church that would love me and include me--a place where I could worship among believers and want to go to church--since I left Mobile in 2003, I have just not wanted to go to church--I couldn't find a good church--a friendly church--a church where people were actually glad that I was there. So, I went from time to time just because I am a Christian and felt like I wouldn't be considered one if I didn't go to church. Well, guess what! My old roommate from Southeastern--Jill--got in touch with me out of the blue a few weeks ago. She had learned from the alumni website that I was living in South Carolina--she asked me if I had found a church and she told me about one here in Greenville. She knows the pastor. So, I went to the church, and guess what! I love it. Sunday will be my fourth time going, and everyone there has already accepted me as a part of them. It's amazing! I felt so welcome the first time I went, and have felt the same way every Sunday since. So much so, that I invited some friends to join me--and they loved it as much as I did. So thank you, Jill, and thank you God for sending me to Trinity Fellowship. If you live in the Greenville area, I would urge you to give Trinity Fellowship a try. It's a small church, but they really love the Lord and love people. www.tfcag.org

The second thing I asked the Lord to do for me is to give me some friends--specifically I asked for three girlfriends this year. Well, since the beginning of the year, I have made friends with the wife of one of my co-workers. Her name is Heather. She is a great friend--she and I are getting together about every two weeks and spending the afternoon together. And her husband keeps their children so she and I can go. Isn't that awesome? I know that's only one out of three, but I am very optimistic that some of the ladies at church are going to be my friends too, and then I will have what I asked for. Life is so empty without someone to spend it with--it's so nice to have a friend.

While I'm on the subject of happiness--I've been on a pursuit of happiness most of my life. And I think I'm close to finding it. For the first time in my life, I like the city where I live. I don't know why it's different here, but it is. Not to say if I felt I was supposed to go somewhere else that I wouldn't go--but I think I am going to stay for a while. There is a guy at work that's made it his personal vendetta to make me leave--everyone there knows that when I left Pensacola, it was because my boss had quit, and my life became a living hell. So--you'd know it--my boss here--my executive producer--quit a few weeks ago. And there's this guy at work that's trying to make my life miserable. I think he thinks he can scare me away. Well, I'm here to tell you--I like it here and I'm not leaving. So, no matter how difficult it gets at work--they won't be getting rid of me so easily.


My little sister is enjoying married life so far--I talked to her on the phone yesterday. I am so happy she's happy. I miss her so much.

Well, I have a lot to do today, so I will end for now. be blessed!

Wedding Pictures

As promised, here are some of the pictures from the wedding. I haven't got the ones I took yet--but these were some my family took. Enjoy!

This is Lisa--isn't she beautiful?

This is me and my brothers--Timmy and Joey

Here are my mom and stepdad--they were both so dressed up--they looked great

This is my Grandma. I love her so much!

Here comes the "bridesmaids"

This is my favorite picture so far from the wedding. She is so happy and it shows.

This is the bouquet toss. Guess what! I caught it! You know what that means!

Timmy caught the garter--he was trying to avoid it, but it was meant to be--it fell right into his hand!

Leaving as man and wife.

Back to SC

Well, after a busy week in Alabama, I am back at home in South Carolina. But it was a good week. My little sister got married Saturday. So, the weekend before, we took her to Nashville for her bachelorette party. We had such a blast! I won't tell you all about it, because you know, what happens in Nash Vegas--stays in Nash Vegas! Okay, so that's the slogan for Las Vegas, but it works for this too! I did have a great time! Here are some pics:

This is me and my sister, Lisa. We are waiting to eat and having a great time.

this is all of us waiting to eat at the old spaghetti factory. the food was really good, and the price was very reasonable. They have these restaurants in several U.S. cities. If you are near one, you should definately check it out!

Lisa had a checklist of things to do while we were in Nashville. One of the items on that list was she had to serenade a man she didn't know. This guy was a great sport and let her sing to him. He even played along!

We all did a lot of dancing at the Wild Horse saloon. Here is Krystal and me trying to learn the steps to a line dance.

This man kept hitting on Erica and me. We thought it was funny because he was so much older than us. But we had a good time with him.

Lisa and Erica singing and dancing.

Another group picture at the Wild Horse Saloon. This is my favorite picture from Nashville.

This is the last picture we took that night. See the guy in the picture? His name is Matt. He and his friends were staying at our hotel, and we met them while we were out. Matt thought I was cute, and he kept asking me to dance--and I kept accepting. It was so much fun! At the end of the night, he tried to kiss me! I couldn't believe it! Anyway, I saw it coming and turned my head--poor guy. He ended up kissing me on the cheek. Sorry, Matt! I don't move that fast. I mean, come on! I just met you!

So, that was our Nashville trip--or at least the parts I am willing to share. I will post wedding pics as soon as I get them!

NashVegas, Here We Come!

Okay, so I am really excited. I have been planning this bachelorette party for my sister for a few months now, and it's finally here! Nashville is one of my favorite places, and I cannot wait to get there!
I am going up on Friday to have a night to myself. While I'm there, I will decorate the room for the girls to arrive. There are 5 of us going. We are going to have so much fun! The other girls will arrive Saturday, and we will leave for Alabama on Sunday afternoon.
I will be in Alabama all week, helping my sister prepare for the wedding that's on March 17th. she is really excited--and I'm really happy for her.
And I am looking forward to the week off from work. I really need some time off. Speaking of work--my boss is moving. So, I'm a little nervous, considering that's what happened in Pensacola to cause me to be in such a bad situation. But I am trusting that God will take care of it--I really like my job here.
So, have a good week. I'm heading south!

Ash Wednesday

Today is Ash Wednesday, the first day of lent, the day after Mardi Gras. I wanted to wear my beads and bring a king cake to work, but lo and behold I got a migraine--a migraine so bad it made me sick. So, I called my boss and I didn't go into work. I ended up bring the king cake in last night.

I got back in touch with an old elementary school friend this week. She and I were inseparable back then. She moved away in 6th grade, and we lost touch. Hopefully now, we can rekindle that friendship.

I went to Winter Jam last Friday night. I was supposed to meet Steven Curtis Chapman--I was so excited. But you'd know it--a bunch of folks got stuck in an elevator--including the guy that was going to introduce me--and I heard Steven was in that elevator, too, so it didn't work out. Oh well, maybe one day. I love Steven Curtis Chapman! I did get to meet Britt Nicole, a newcomer to Christian music, and said hello to one of the guys from Newsong (I was backstage).

Have a good week!

Snow in the Upstate!

Guess what! The unthinkable happened! We got snow! We got about an inch to an inch and a half, but it was enough to look pretty and play in a bit. Of course, I was working most of the day trying to keep people informed as to what was going on. You know how southerners panic when it snows. But I was so happy to see it. But it was short-lived. It is already melting. It's supposed to be in the 40s today.

Sorry It's Been So Long!

I know, I know. I haven't posted in quite a while. Some of you in the blogger world may have thought I fell off the face of the earth. I mean, after all, I have an opinion about everything, and yet I haven't offered my opinion in a while. I guess I just haven't had anything productive to say. I've been really frustrated at work here lately, but I am trying not to let things get to me. After all, it's just a job. What really matters is my life outside the job (I keep telling myself that...whether I believe it yet is another story.) But the problem remains: I don't have much of a life outside of work. So, I am taking steps to change that. I am no longer attending Redemption World Outreach Center. I think that church was a bad choice for me. It's way to big to be people-friendly. There was 5,000-8,000 people in the church. I never did manage to meet the pastor, and I never made any friends at the singles group. So, after spending nearly a year at that church, I have decided to find a smaller church where I can get involved and hopefully make friends.

I've also started working out again. I went through a lull where there was nothing I despised more than going to the gym. But then I started gaining my weight that I'd lost back and I decided I need to be in the gym at least twice if not three times a week.

I'm in charge of planning my sister's bachelorette party. Her two best friends are helping me. We are taking her to Nashville in March--one week before the wedding. I absolutely love Nashville! We are going to stay one night and that night we are going to go out for a night on the town. It's going to be lots of fun!

Speaking of fun, I am listening to country music right now. I don't know if you like country music or not, but I think a lot of the new stuff is lots of fun. Anyway, there's this fairly new song out called "if you're going through hell" It's on the radio right now. It's so funny, but I have been there! And I guess that's why I like the song so much. It says:
If you're going through hell
keep on going
don't slow down
if you're scared don't show it
you might get out before the devil even knows you're there

If you're going through hell
keep on moving
face that fire
walk right through it
you might get out before the devil even knows you're there.

I think we've all been there at one time or another. That's why I'm trying not to whine about stuff, because things have been much worse. I just keep thinking about what I was going through this time last year. I was in a job I hated, working with people I didn't like one bit, and sick all the time because I didn't know how long I would have that job. And I was living in a tiny 600 sq. ft. apartment. It was horrible!

Now, I'm in a job that I like, I like all but one person I work with, and I have a beautiful apartment with comfy furniture to come home to. And to top it off, I am in beautiful South Carolina, much farther from the beach than I ever thought I wanted to live, but loving the mountains! I never thought I would say I loved living near the mountains, but I really do. The only complaint I have is my hours I work. With any luck, our 10 o'clock producer will move to something else so I can move into that job. If that doesn't happen, then I guess I will be forced to move one more time. The good news is there is a station my company owns in Nashville that I wouldn't mind going to. If I must leave here, Nashville's my next best bet. I have decided after much thought that I really don't want to leave the South. As the group Alabama says, I'm "southern born and southern bred". Why would I even think about leaving my southern roots behind?

Well, that's about it. Nothing new really to report. I will try and post more often, but if I have nothing to say, then I have nothing to say. I know what some of you are thinking: "Nicole, you always have something to say." Well to those people, I must tell you, some things do change. And for the first time in my life I find myself without words sometimes.

Have a great week!

Happy New Year everyone! This year has started out really good, and I am hoping it will be the best year yet.

I didn't get to go home for Christmas since I had to work, but on December 29th, I headed home to Gordo. I got there, and I have to tell you, I've never been so glad to be home. It was torture not being home for Christmas this year. Friday night, I was so tired, but I got ready anyway, and went out to eat with my sister.
Then on Saturday, I went to my friend, Jennifer's, house to visit with her and exchange Christmas gifts. I got to visit with the babies too, and that was wonderful. Kathryn didn't cry near as much this time as she did the last time I was there. And Connor, he's just loads of fun. He's two and full of energy. He's learning new words, but he doesn't quite know how to use them all yet. So, last weekend, I was "uncle" 'Cole. We tried to correct him, but he just didn't understand why it wasn't right! I found it quite funny!
Sunday, it was Merry Christmas and Happy New YEar all wrapped into one. We got up and went to church. It was great! I got to see so many people I used to know, and Bro. Pat even preached. He's no longer the senior pastor of the church, but the senior pastor was out of town, so I got a special treat--to hear my former pastor preach.
Once church was over, we came home, and that afternoon, opened Christmas presents, and had all the family over for dinner.
Then that night, we sang about old aquaintences being forgot, and all that jazz...while we shot fireworks and listened to bad music on the new year's rockin' eve. and we even had a new year's toast! So, it was a good day.
Monday, my mom, grandmother, and I went to the movies to see "The Pursuit of Happyness". I thought it was a really good story, but I think the movie was a bit long for the subject.
Tuesday I came home.
So, that was my trip to Alabama. I did get another treat this week, though. My friend, Alex, was down visiting his mother in Charlotte. He lives in Vancouver, so it's very seldom I get to see him. So, I drove to Charlotte and had lunch with him yesterday.
Charlotte is an easy drive. I may have to go back and go shopping soon. I've heard there's great shopping there.
So, this weekend, I plan to rest from all my travels, and clean the apartment. It always gets a mess when I go on a trip. With all the packing and unpacking! I may go to the movies and see Freedom Writers.

Have a great weekend!