Auld Lang Syne

As I sit and think about the end of 2008 and a new beginning in 2009, I am glad for the chance to start again. 2007 was a wonderful year for me, and as I entered 2008, I just knew it was going to be a great year. I had vowed to lose the extra weight I seem to have carried all my life, and become a much healthier person. I had also vowed to travel more, and I made a list of about five places I wanted to visit.
But 2008 was a year of hardship, of heartache, and of moving on. I didn't lose the weight. I didn't travel more, and I spent most of the year trying to be happy again. I had a really bad breakup, and had to move because with a new boss, my job went sour.

So, the New Year has me thinking about the words of the famous new year's song "Auld Lang Syne". If you don't know the words, here they are:

Should auld acquaintance be forgot and never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot and days of auld lang syne?
For auld lang syne, my dear, for auld lang syne,
we'll take a cup of kindness yet, for auld lang syne.

Should auld acquaintance be forgot and never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot and days of auld lang syne?
And here's a hand, my trusty friend And gie's a hand o' thine
We'll tak' a cup o' kindness yet For auld lang syne

So, should we forget the days that have gone by? Sometimes I think yes, but other times, I think no. Because if you forget where you've been, then you can't learn anything for the future.
So, as you enter the New Year, Thank God for where you've been, and the trials He's brought you through. Because we're still standing today, despite the things that have happened, or the people that seek to destroy us. And look forward to the New Year, and the new beginnings. Because the coming year, 2009, is going to be great! I just know it!

Working on Christmas

I've been in the Television business since 2002, and since 2002, I've had to work every Christmas, except for one. I didn't work last Christmas, and that was a gift in itself to be able to be with my family on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

This year, I sit inside the newsroom at Channel three in Chattanooga, and I wish I could be home with my family. My mom passed around the phone this morning and I talked to all my family at her house...my mom, stepdad, grandmother, my sister and her husband, my brother and his fiance. And it was great just getting to hear their voices.

But for the first time I actually enjoy the people I'm spending Christmas with. The people I work with here are so great, and I have actually enjoyed today, even though I've had to work. The crew that's working today are the "newby's"...all of us don't have the seniority, so we have to work while others get the holiday off. It's the nature of the business, the news must go on.

But we're not the only ones...I went into Waffle House today, and those poor people were so busy! It seems everyone went to get a late breakfast at Waffle House this morning...there were so many people in there, and I found myself feeling sorry for the people working there. At least my job isn't as demanding as there's today. Holidays are usually pretty easy in the news business. So, thank you waffle house workers for making my food today.

I say all of this to say--enjoy your time with your family and friends this holiday season...and Thank God for all the time you get to spend with them. Because there are some who can't be with their families on the holidays...as for me, I'm heading to see family tonight.

The Loop Christmas Party

Check out the pictures and video from our Christmas party. The Loop is a young adult group I'm involved in for ages 20s and 30s...we had a great time.http://theloopchattanooga.blogspot.com

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

I haven't blogged in a while. Things have been so busy, Christmas has really snuck up on me this year. I'm working today and tomorrow, as I usually have to do. It's the curse of being a tv news producer. But I do get to go home for the weekend and see my family.

I called my mom today. She says everyone's coming over for the annual Christmas Eve celebration...the celebration that I have missed every year, except for last year. It's really sad...I always feel like I'm on the outside. Mom says they're having hordouvers...and exchanging gifts.

I'll work tomorrow, then head to my dad's home, which is really close--about an hour away. I will celebrate Christmas with him and my stepmom tomorrow night...
then I'll head to my mom's in Gordo on Friday morning, where I will get to spend Christmas weekend with my mom, stepdad, grandmother, and probably my brother, Timmy, and his fiance. Lisa and Jon probably won't be there, but I hope that changes.

I'm looking forward to the time at home...

I hope all of you have a Merry Christmas...
I hope Santa treats everyone good, and don't forget while you're opening presents to celebrate Jesus' birthday, too. After all, He's the reason for the season!

Look What I got!

I'm so excited! I got my first smart phone! It's a Blackjack II from Samsung. I absolutely love it, but it's taking me some time to figure out how it works! It's almost smarter than me!

Turning 30

So, tomorrow I turn the big 3-0. And it's been really sad for me. I mean, today is the last day of my 20s. I guess leaving behind decades is sad, because that's the last 10 years of your life! And you look back at all you wanted to accomplish, and it didn't happen.
But the good thing is that it kind of gives you a fresh start--a new beginning to do all the things you want to do.
I got an email from my dear friend, Noelle, today. She also turns 30 soon. Her birthday is in March, and she and I are going to Tucson together next month to celebrate. She lives in San Francisco area, so it will be great to see her.

She really put turning 30 it in perspective for me. here's an excerpt:

"Enjoy 30! If you think 30 is bad, wait till we get to 50 (; Not looking forward to 50. Don't really feel much older as I approach 30....I guess I could be upset...but I was at a conference for the past two days in the City....I had to walk to BART from the conference and was surrounded by disabled people...people talking to themselves...panhandlers....and an old homeless guy sleeping in his wheelchair in the BART station underground because it's so cold outside right now in the Bay Area. We really have so much to be thankful for.....a trip to the City keeps things in perspective."

So, as I turn 30, I really want to think about what I want my life to be like for the next 10 years. I want to enjoy life more. I want to meet more people, and make new friends. I want to hopefully find a wonderful man to marry, and have beautiful children. I want to stay put--and quit moving around so much. I want to travel more (for pleasure), and see places I've never seen. I begin that with Tucson...I went when I was a little girl, but I don't remember anything. So, I can't wait to see the southwest.

I'm not working for the rest of the week, so I will update next week.

A Week Away, Advice Needed

I am exactly a week away from the dreaded 30. I turn 30 on December 11th. I am, however, looking forward to some time off. I am off that Thursday and Friday. I was planning on going to Nashville, but because I couldn't find anyone that wanted to go with me...I decided I'm going to stick around here.

So, I'm looking for tips on how to survive turning 30. For those of you that have already hit that milestone...please send me those tips, whether they be humorous or serious, I want to know!

Happy Family News

I got the best phone call last night. My brother, Timmy, has been dating Kylie for a couple years now. Well, Kylie called me last night to tell me Timmy had proposed! So, they're getting married in October! I am so happy for them! I liked Kylie from the beginning, and I told Timmy not to let her get away! So, I am so glad that they are getting married! And Timmy even thought of a clever way to propose! I'm so proud of him!

Yes Virginia, There is a Santa Claus

I just love Christmas. It's just so magical! And the belief of Santa Claus has a lot to do with that.

I went to the East Ridge Christmas parade last Saturday night. I decided to go, even though I didn't have anyone to go with. And I am so glad I did. I ended up standing next to a man and his seven-year-old daughter. It was so much fun watching the parade with this little girl. She just watched the parade with awe. But it was a long parade. And about halfway through, she began to get antsy. So, I told her that she needed to watch, because Santa Claus hadn't come by yet. Here's the conversation that followed:

girl: Santa Claus is going to be in the parade?

Me: Didn't you know Santa comes to all the Christmas parades?

girl: The real Santa?

Me: Of course! Is there any other?

So, she got so excited and watched the rest of the parade...and as predicted, Santa came riding in on a fire truck to greet all of the children.

It reminds me of another little girl, who's letter to the editor of the New York Sun has become quite popular. Eight-Year-Old Virginia O'Hanlon wrote the letter, and a quick response was printed in 1897.

Here's the letter and response:

DEAR EDITOR: I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says, 'If you see it in THE SUN it's so.' "Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus?"VIRGINIA O'HANLON.

VIRGINIA, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except [what] they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men's or children's, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.

Yes, VIRGINIA, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if there were no VIRGINIAS. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.

Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that's no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.

You may tear apart the baby's rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, VIRGINIA, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.

No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

Thank God for All His Provisions

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, and although I have to work tomorrow and Friday, I just have to say I've got a lot to be thankful for. I'm thankful I have a job, because there are many people in the world right now wondering where their next paycheck will come from. And I am thankful I will get to go home and spend some time with my family this weekend.

I'm thankful for friends. My new friends, Stephanie and Neville, have invited me to spend Thanksgiving evening with them, so I won't be alone. I think that's so nice of them.

I'm thankful for sunrises and sunsets...and the chance to live each day.

What are you thankful for? Let's be sure to give thanks this holiday season.

Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas

So, it used to be Happy Thanksgiving for the month of November, then Merry Christmas for the month of December. But it's changed, and silly me, I'm still trying to hold on to my traditions. I've been hearing about folks who have already decorated for Christmas, and my thought it, good grief! Celebrate one holiday at a time! Then, one of the radio stations here went to all Christmas music this week. I couldn't believe it! Don't get me wrong, I love Christmas, but I am afraid if we celebrate for too long, it will no longer be special...



So, I tried to hold off and not listen to the Christmas music. But somehow, my radio dial has made it to that station. And I've learned that Christmas music makes me really happy! So, I just left it there for now. As for decorating, I plan to start the process this weekend. I don't know if I'll do inside and out, but I will get it started. I usually wait until the day after Thanksgiving to put up the tree. But Thanksgiving is a week late this year. And I have to work Thanksgiving and the day after. I will be in Gordo visiting my family that weekend. So, I'm going to go ahead and break tradition and put it up.

So, Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas--all wrapped into one.

Weekend at Daddy's

This weekend, I am going to see my dad and stepmom. My dad called me about an hour ago, telling me he was home, and wanted to know if I would come. It turned out to be good timing, because I've been feeling a bit lonely this week. I've been sick most of the week, so I haven't had much contact with people, and I just miss my family. So, for anyone that might try to call me this weekend, I will be out of cell phone range until Sunday night. Yeah, my dad's is one of the few places on earth that has lousy cell phone coverage...he lives way out in the boondocks, right on Lake Weiss. But that's not so bad. It gives you a chance to relax from all the hustle and bustle of this world.

A Wonderful Weekend

Valerie got here about 7:00 Friday night, and we pretty much went nonstop all weekend.

We went to Rock City, and we went downtown and to the North shore.
We ate in a wonderful Italian restaurant, called Tony's, in the art district.

We had a great time. I can't wait until she comes back. I hope it's soon!

Valerie standing in the states...

Here's me entering "Fat Man's Squeeze"

A Special Visit

I am so excited! Nearly 15 years ago, I went to Camp Smile-A-Mile as a counselor for the first time. My brother had been diagnosed with cancer not long before, and I decided to be a counselor at the camp he had grown to love. So, I went, scared, not knowing what to expect. When I got there, I met a very special young lady. Valerie was seven-years-old when I first met her. And she and I instantly hit it off. After that year, I was her counselor every summer until she became a teenager and moved on to the teen cabin. I, of course, stayed with the little kids. But Valerie and I were able to stay close all these years. When I lived in Huntsville, I got the chance to visit with her a lot, since she only lived an hour from there. But since I moved, I haven't seen her that much. However, we stayed in touch.

Well, Valerie, I am happy to say, is all grown up now, and cancer free! And, this weekend, she is coming to visit me here in Chattanooga! I am so excited, I can barely contain myself. When you go to these camps, you tell yourself not to get too close, because they're all sick. But Valerie grabbed my heart on the first day. I am so glad she did! So, I am looking forward to my weekend visit with Valerie--just a month from when she graduates from college!

History in the Making

It's history in the making! Barack Obama will be the first African-American president of the United States come January. I have to be truthful. I never liked Barack. I was a Hillary Clinton and a John Edwards fan. If you look at some previous posts, you can see me when I met John Edwards. And I never liked John McCain, either, but his running-mate, Sarah Palin, intrigued me. With all that said, at this time, I am happy with the country's choice. And I'm even happier that Obama not only won the electoral college, but he also won the popular vote. That doesn't always happen. I always wondered how you could elect someone president that didn't win the popular vote. But it's happened in recent history.
So, as we wait and see what the future holds, I just hope it's "change we can believe in", like Obama has preached his whole campaign. I want to see the economy get better. I want to see wars end, and peace across the world. I want to see an America that we can be proud of. An America that the world respects. So, as Obama and runningmate, Joe Biden, take office in January, no matter your political affiliation, or who you voted for, let's pray for our new leaders. Let's pray the Lord guides their steps as they lead our country.

Alabama Wins

In case you didn't know, Alabama won last Saturday's game against Tennessee 29-9. It was such a sweet victory.

Here are some pictures from last Friday's pep rally. I didn't take these. Someone emailed them to me.

You can see me in this picture. I am right there on the first row of people sitting down (toward the back). I have a crimson shirt on with a gray stripe on the sleeve.

A Bad Year, But It's Getting Better

You know, I got to thinking this week. 2008 has been a really bad year for me. I mean, my job went sour and I had to move from where I considered to be my home. I went through a bad breakup. Yeah, 2008 was a bad year for the most part. But I think for the most part, things have really changed for me for the better. I moved to a great city where going to work is actually pleasant. I have several friends my age...something I haven't had in a really long time. And I really don't think these are fair-weather friends. I think they are truly good people that want my friendship as much as I want there's. People that aren't just using me for their own agenda. I have had "friends" over the years that did that. Even as recent as Greenville.

But you know, 2007 was a good year for me and my family. I was in a great place in Greenville. I had found a great church, I got my dream car, my sister got married. It was just a good year all-around. Sure, there were bad times, but those didn't last that long.

So, I am hoping 2009 is a good year. I guess we have to go through seasons in our lives. Good seasons and bad. And we learn things along the way. Lord knows, I've been through my share of bad. I'm just wanting some good seasons. I'm turning 30 at the end of this year. I would really like to start 30 off good.

B-A-M-A, ROLL TIDE, ROLL!

Roll Tide, Roll!
Today, I went to an Alabama pep rally here in Chattanooga.
The Million Dollar Band, Crimsonettes, cheerleaders, and even Big Al stopped on their way through Chattanooga today to get fans fired up! It was so much fun! I took lots of pictures and video. Will try to get some on in the coming days.

Alabama plays Tennessee tomorrow...and hopefully we will come away still undefeated!

Pictures from My SC trip

Here are the pictures, as promised!


I spent the whole day Saturday with Olivia. We had a wonderful day and I was sad that we had to say good-bye!

I met up with my friends, Heather and Mike, and their children downtown.

Here's Heather and Mike and their children. They are such good friends!

Parting is Such Sweet Sorrow

I'm back from Greenville, and I have to say, all the way home I fought back tears. I really hated leaving again. I had such a wonderful time visiting with the Meiszeks, Olivia, the Birchfields, and the Hills...plus getting to see everyone at church. I was busy all weekend, and I wouldn't have had it any other way. I miss them so much. I've had dreams that I will one day get to move back there, but right now, I really like Chattanooga, too. So, we'll see what happens in the future. I will post some pictures from the trip as soon as I am able.

My Weekend Trip

Well, in just a few hours, I will be heading to Greenville for the weekend. I am very much looking forward to it. I haven't been back since I left more than four months ago. I will get to spend time with most of my friends from there. I am kind of upset because I won't be able to see my friend, Heather. She has to work. But she says she plans to come visit me in Chattanooga. I am excited. I love having out of town guests!

Try Not to Worry

Today, the stock market dropped sharply again...just minutes after trading began. Gas prices are still near $4 a gallon, even though oil prices have dropped so much. For the average person, groceries are costing nearly twice as much. Electric and water bills are going up...and on top of that employment is down, and plants are closing everyday. So, where does it end? Where can we find relief? I don't know about you, but times like this have me worrying about how I'm going to get groceries next week, or put gas in the car. Times like this are enough to make anyone worry. But I'm reminded what the Bible says about worry. Here's what Matthew 6:25-27 says about worry:

25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?

So, as we sit and think about our finances and how we are going to make ends meat, let's ponder these words. Let's put our trust in the Lord. He knows what we are going through. He hasn't forgotten us.

Greenville, Here I Come!

So, I haven't been back to visit Greenville since I moved to Chattanooga. Well, that's all about to change! I am going to visit October 17-19. I am so excited! A family from my church there is letting me and my dog stay at their house. And I am hoping to visit with everyone! It's going to be like a mini-vacation for me! And of course, on Sunday, I will visit my old church. I miss everyone so much and it's been way to long since I went!

I also got some great news yesterday. My very first camper at camp smile-a-mile in Alabama is coming to see me next month. Valerie was 7-year-old when we met. And she is quite the inspiration. For those of you who don't know, Camp Smile-A-Mile is a camp for children with cancer. So, Valerie battled cancer...she went on to graduate valedictorian of her high school class, and she is getting ready to graduate from UAB in December! I feel honored to have been a part of her life all these years! If your ever looking for a great volunteer opportunity, Camp SAM or any other cancer camp is a great place to be. I really cherish my time I spent will all of the children there.

Good Friends and Lots of Fun

I am so looking forward to this weekend. Tonight, my friends, Janna and Stephanie, are coming to my home for a girls night. Their husbands will be out of town, so we decided to spend some time just us girls.

So, tonight, we are doing fondue...we will have cheese fondue and chocolate fondue. It's not the Melting Pot, but I think it will still be fun! We are also going to watch a chick flick. I have rented "Made of Honor". I think it's going to be a great time!

Who knew North Georgia had a winery? I sure didn't when I moved here! Well, I am so excited! Tomorrow, the winery is having a grape stomp. So, I plan to go to that!

They will have wine-tasting, live music, and of course, some messy grape stomping. Sounds like so much fun! And it's only $5 to get in. Now that's my kind of price.

And of course, I'll have to watch the Tide roll over Kentucky tomorrow afternoon. Might not get to see the whole game, but I will definately catch the last half! i am so happy that my favorite team is doing so well! Alabama is number two in the country! It's exciting!

So, this weekend sounds like the most fun since I moved to Chattanooga. I'm really looking forward to it!

Give me a Break!

I work in the news, and several days, there are stories that I really wish I wouldn't have heard. The big story last week...Clay Aiken "coming out". Now, it's his own business if he says he's gay, but please don't say it's okay to be gay and be a Christian. I mean, the bible very clearly states homosexuality is a sin. And God destroyed a whole city because of the homosexuality there. I do believe that Christians can struggle with homosexuality. It's a sin just like anything else. But to come out and say "I'm Gay and I'm a born again Christian", well I'm sorry. But I think that's terrible that our young people who may look up to Clay as a roll model would hear him say that. I cannot judge him, only God can, but it's not okay to mislead our youth.

Something you may not know...Christian singer Ray Boltz, who sang the classic songs "I Pledge Allegiance to the Lamb", "Thank You", and "Watch the Lamb" also says he's gay. I would just ask the Christian community to come together and pray for these two men.

Three Months and Still Enjoying It

Well, I've been at my new job in Chattanooga for three months now, and things are going great. My show is going great, and I'm having lots of fun with my new friends.

We have started doing some events with our young adults ministry. The girls went out to dinner and to downtown just a couple weeks ago, and we're planning several events for October, including a party to watch the Alabama/Tennessee game. Now, I know I will be outnumbered (Roll Tide), but I am hoping the Crimson Tide pulls out the win, and I am the only one not crying at the end of the evening! It's gonna be fun!




My friend, Noelle, and I are planning a huge trip to celebrate our 30th birthdays. I can't believe I'm about to be 30!!! My birthday is in December and hers is in March, so we are travelling to Tucson, Arizona, in January for a four-day trip! I am so excited! We've already gotten our hotel and plane reservations...and we got some huge deals!!!!





Well, I've got to head home.

Daddy's Little Girl

Everyone always says little girls never grow out of being Daddy's Little Girl.

Well, I think to an extent, that is true.

My dad and stepmom are home from Vegas until the beginning of September, and I have spent the last two weekends at his house. He lives a little more than an hour from me on Weiss Lake in Alabama.

And last week, he called and gave me the best news--they finally bought two waverunners! I've wanted one as long as I can remember. So, we spent last weekend riding them on the water. It was lots of fun. My dad had a really hard time learning how to ride them, but he finally got the hang of it on day two. But my stepmom, Sherry, and I had no trouble riding them.

It's nice living so close to them. In South Carolina, I was about four hours from them. And I was about six from my mom and stepdad. Now, I'm much closer to both. I'm hoping that means much more quality time with all of them.

I Just Want to Sleep

Well, I have been in Chattanooga for two months now, and things seem to be going great.
And my dad and stepmom are back from Vegas(where my dad is working) for a few weeks, so I am getting to spend some time with them. They live a little more than an hour from me, so it's an easy drive to their house. I spent last weekend there, and plan to go back tonight. They live on the lake, so I predict a fun weekend of boating and swimming...and riding the new waverunners!
Since I came home Sunday night, though, I have had a really hard time sleeping at night. I really don't know why. Until last night, I went to sleep right away, but always woke up a few hours later. Last night, I even had a hard time getting to sleep. I am so tired! My grandmother asked me last night what's bothering me that would prevent me from sleeping. I really don't think anything is bothering me. I have been feeling a bit lonely over the last week or so, which could be causing some of the problem. Last Thursday, I had a really down day--and this week, I've just been wishing I was surrounded by my family and friends. It's always hard moving to a new city...especially when you're all alone. I've made a couple of friends here, but they are new friends, so I don't connect with them as well as my old friends just yet.
Well, I need to get back to work--by the way, things seem to be going great there. And working during the day is definately a plus!

Tales of Tennessee

Well, I really haven't had much to report--which is why I haven't updated lately. Things at work are great. I never knew working in a newsroom could be so enjoyable. People here are nice and they treat each other with respect. And my bosses seem to really like me. They say they've gotten nothing but good feedback from my director and my anchors.

My personal life is also great. I have made friends with some folks from a church that I've visited several times. I don't know if I will continue to attend the church or not (I am visiting others), but I will continue to attend their young adult meetings. Thanks to Jeremy, Janna, Neville, Stephanie, and Zeuban for befriending me so quickly!

That guy that asked for my phone number quit calling. I guess he didn't like me after talking to me on the phone. But I'm not at all upset about it. I guess he just wasn't right for me, which is perfectly okay!

I still miss everyone in Greenville, and I talk to my friends there often on the phone.

Well, gotta get back to work. Keep in touch everyone!

Things are Great!

Just a quick update--
Things are great here. I've finished two weeks of work, and I have to say, things couldn't be better. Everyone is very nice, and I've gotten several compliments about my work. Even one of my anchors told me I do a great job. That makes me feel really good.

Another update--guy from the pool called me today--we'll probably go out sometime this week.

other than that, nothing new.

Hope all is well with all of you.

Tennessee Smile

Well, I've been in Tennessee a total of two weeks now, and I have to say, things are going pretty well. I started my job last Monday, and by THursday, I was going solo. I've had three flawless shows, and my boss says he thinks I'm going to fit in just fine there.

My apartment is still not put together. The painters did a horrible job, so they had to come back and paint again. But it's still not acceptable. So, they will be back. On top of that, there's maintenance that still has to be done. But they promise they're working to get it completed.

Yesterday something really cool happened. I was at the pool laying out and the landscaping people were there working on the lawns of the apartment complex. Well, one of them was working around the pool. He stopped a moment to talk to me. Then, he asked me for my phone number! I wonder if he will call. He is really cute!

Oh, and I visited an Assembly of GOd Church last SUnday. and last night, I went to their 20s/30s group. It was a lot of fun--I'll probably stay there! So, I may have found a church, too!

Well, that's about it for now. I will try to update as often as I can. I don't have a computer at home at this time.

I do have to pay tribute to one of the best journalists of my time. I was saddened to hear of the death of Tim Russert. I watched him every Sunday on Meet the Press, and I was always amazed at how fair he could be. He was one of the greats, and he will be missed.

Carolina On My Mind

Well, I have officially left South Carolina, But I will probably always be a Carolina Girl at heart. Greenville is the first place in my life that I ever felt like I was home. Even when I left Gordo, the small Alabama town I grew up in, I didn't feel the sadness I have felt over the last few weeks. I left Greenville yesterday, and as I approached the South Carolina/Georgia line, I had to fight tears, because I so didn't want to leave. But I had to. So, I had a little talk with God--and I told him that my head was telling me to be so angry at Him because I felt like he let me down. I made a home for myself in Greenville. I loved it there. And if things would have been okay with my job, I would have bought a house and stayed forever. But my heart tells me that I just need to trust Him--trust the one who writes my days(as the Barlow Girl song so poetically says). Because maybe I am supposed to be in Chattanooga for this time. Maybe I am going to go there and God is going to really use me. Or maybe I am supposed to go there to find my husband. Who knows? I just pray that I will love it there, and if I don't, God will allow me to go back to Greenville one day. So, as I sit at my mom's house in small town Alabama, I miss Greenville already. But I am trusting God that He will make this move great! I did find a wonderful apartment. It's a one bedroom, loft apartment in East Ridge, a suburb of Chattanooga.So, things are already looking up. Please pray for me that I will find a wonderful church family, and that my job will be great!

Saying Good-bye

Saying good-bye is never easy when you care about the people you're leaving.
Today is my last day at Fox Carolina.

Last night, as the 10 o'clock crew was leaving, everyone was saying good-bye.

And it made me really sad. But this morning, I find myself glad to go.

me and the Fox girls

So, it is bittersweet. I'm just glad my days of working third shift are over.

I am leaving Sunday to look for an apartment, then I will be back to get my things.

This Sunday is my last Sunday at my church.

That's going to be really hard. But I pray God will give me a good church family when I move.

my friends Lori and Christy

Matthew 18:20

Someone sent me an email that had this picture. Isn't it great!
For where two or three are gathered together in my name,
there am I in the midst of them. Matthew 18:20

Does this count?

Just a Few More Days

Jill and me at Paris Mtn.

I'm wrapping up another day at work--and that means I only have three more days at Fox Carolina. I am going to miss several of the people I work with. I am also going to miss my friends that I've made over the last two years in Greenville.

I got the greatest surprise this past weekend. My roommate from Southeastern, Jill, called me Friday and told me she was coming to visit! She flew in Friday night and stayed all weekend. It was so good to see her!

It was a weekend of surprises. I was at church Sunday, sitting with Jill, of course, when Olivia and her family showed up! They said they wanted to surprise me since I am leaving next week. I felt so popular this weekend, with everyone showing up to surprise me like that!

My first day at work in Chattanooga isn't until June 16th. That gives me time to find an apartment and move my things. I may even try to go home to Gordo for a couple of days before I start. We'll see.

I am excited about the move in many ways. The thing I'm most excited about is sleeping at night and working during the day. I won't know how to feel. I haven't done that in more than four years. I really hope that I'm able to get back to loving what I do. I've just been so burnt out lately. I will be the producer of the 5p news, which means I will work 9am - 5:30pm nearly everyday. Isn't that awesome? And Chattanooga is a lot like Greenville. So, I'm really hoping I love it as much as I do here.

Short Hair

Well, I did it. I went short again. I got my hair cut yesterday, and I absolutely love it. It had just gotten so long and bushy--I have thick hair, so it was in real need of a thinning. But, as I told my sister, I am really sad that I found a stylist just as I'm leaving. I've been looking for someone to cut my hair for two years, and I've had several bad haircuts in the process. At least I'm going to Chattanooga with nice hair!

Chimney Rock Park and Lake Lure

Nobody puts baby in the corner. If you've watched dirty dancing, you know that famous line. Well, last weekend I got to see where the "practice lift scene" in that movie took place(see left). I went to Lake Lure and Chimney Rock, North Carolina last weekend. We rode a boat on Lake Lure--and went hiking at Chimney Rock.

I was so proud of myself. I hiked a moderate to strenuous trail to a waterfall. And I've paid for it with sore muscles ever since--but it was lots of fun. And the waterfall was beautiful. Thanks Olivia, for cheering me on the whole way! I would highly recommend this trip to everyone. It's so beautiful! Here's some pics:

The Best Place to Live

Relocate-America.com chose Chattanooga, Tennessee, as the third best city to live in. That's notable for me, since it appears I am moving to Chattanooga the beginning of next month. I've been offered a job there as a dayside producer, and I decided to take it! That means no more night shifts for me, thank the Lord! It's bittersweet, though. I absolutely love Greenville. I hate to leave it (greenville was voted number 4 in the best places to live). I have so many friends here.

If you're looking to move, you may want to know what the best cities are! So, here's the list:

1. Charlotte, N.C.
2. San Antonio, Texas
3. Chattanooga, Tenn.
4. Greenville, S.C.
5. Tulsa, Okla.
6. Stevens Point, Wis.
7. Asheville, N.C.
8. Albuquerque, N.M.
9. Huntsville, Ala.
10. Seattle, Wash.

http://finance.yahoo.com/real-estate/article/105075/Charlotte-Named-Best-Place-to-Live

I think it's interesting--I live in Greenville, I used to live in Huntsville, and I'm moving to Chattanooga. Charlotte is currently 1 1/2 hours from me, as is Asheville. So, for those of you who don't live in the south, you may want to move! Most of the top 10 are good ol' southern cities!

A Sad Anniversary

Today marks one year since my co-worker, Joe Loy, was killed while covering a story. He was shooting an accident on the interstate, when a truck caused a van to go out of control. The van hit Joe. They still haven't caught that driver of the truck. Joe caught the accident on his camera moments before he was killed. The sad part--if South Carolina required drivers to have license plates on the front of our cars, then they could catch this person. I really wish all states would make this requirement.

Covering the news isn't a safe job. It can be really dangerous. I mean, we are sent to the highways, we are sent to murder scenes, and standoffs. But Joe loved his job. And he knew the risks.

As I get ready to move again, I feel an overwhelming sense of grief. For the first time in my life, I am happy where I live, and I really don't want to move. But I am so tired of working third shift, and I am so tired of putting up with egoes from other co-workers who think they've arrived. I am just thankful I got the opportunity to work in a top 50 market. That was my goal, and I made it. And truthfully, I wish I could stay in Greenville. But i'm so burnt out, it makes me hate what I do. And I don't want to feel that way. I want to go back to a time when I thoroughly enjoyed it--when I got excited about going to work.

I went on an interview Friday. I really liked the people I met, and the station as a whole. And the good thing is it would be a daytime shift. It's a 5p newscast. Waiting to hear back from another company. It's good to have options.

So, as for now, I thank God that he's taking care of me. I was so afraid I wouldn't have a job to go to, but things are looking up. Thank you, Jesus. Maybe it's the Lord's will that I move somewhere else. I am just so tired of moving. I've been in this business for 5 1/2 years and I've worked at four different companies in four different cities. I just want to find a place to settle down, and buy a house, and meet someone, get married, and have children. That is my next goal.

JBQ Regionals

Last night, we got back from JBQ regionals. For those of you who don't know what JBQ is--it stands for Junior Bible Quiz. It's for kids ages six to 12.Well, our kids from our church were number one in the state of South Carolina, so they went to regionals to compete against teams from North Carolina, Florida, Georgia, and Alabama. There were also a couple of other teams from South Carolina. The competition starts Friday and ends Saturday afternoon. Our kids came in second place in the flight(division), out of six teams total. I was so proud of them. And one of our kids was first place individual quizzer in the flight. I am the assistant coach for the team, and I have had so much fun with these kids!

Now, I am exhausted, so I am heading to bed.

Pictures

I wanted to post some pics from my trip to Mobile and Gulf Shores. Sorry it's been a while! There's a whole lot going on--I'll post in more in the next post.

This is me at the beach.

This is me and my friend, Sarah...at Gulf Shores.

And this is Sarah, Jeff, Juan, his baby, Jeremy, and me!

My trip to South Alabama

I've been home from LA(lower Alabama) for a week--and I had lots of fun. I will have to post some pictures as soon as I get the computer connecter for my camera! It was so great to see some old friends from college(Juan, Jeff, Sarah, and Jeremy), and visit with my Grandmother. And it was great to get to go to a Gulf beach...the beaches there are so much better than Carolina beaches--with white sand and blue water you can see through! I went to the beach with Sarah on Thursday. We both got so sun-burned! Then on Friday, I went to the University of South Alabama to see the changes made since I graduated. I also went to my favorite restaurant down on the causeway--"The Original Oysterhouse." And on Saturday, I went to dinner and bowling with all my friends. It was loads of fun!

Now I am back and wishing I wouldn't have had to come back so soon. It would have been nice to take more time off. But that will come later in the year.

Movin' on up!

Okay, so many of you (Alex) will be so proud of me. I bought a digital camera yesterday. It's my first one, and I absolutely love it. It's red in color, which is my favorite! And it has so many little bells and whistles, it will take a while to figure out all it does. But I am going on vacation to Mobile/Gulf Shores, Alabama this week, so I am sure I will get lots of practice! I had been adament not to get rid of my 35 millimeter--I love that camera! But it broke, so I had to get a new one. So, all of you can quit making fun of me for not living in the 21st century! I finally got my digital camera. I'll work on updating my cell phone later :)

Happy Easter

Today is Good Friday. That's the day Jesus Christ died on the cross for our sins. But he didn't stay there. He rose again on the 3rd day! Hallelujah! Which is why we celebrate Easter. Yes, the Easter Bunny and easter eggs are lots of fun. But let's remember this Easter weekend what Jesus went through for us! He carried a cross, after being beaten. Then hung there on the cross while he suffocated. So, remember the sacrifice!

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his one and only son. That whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have eternal life." John 3:16

"But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed." Isaiah 53:5

It's picture time!

I just wanted to post some pictures from fine arts. This is my friend, Olivia, and me at fine arts. We are showing off the awards she won! She competed in four competitions, but will go to nationals for two of them--human video solo and short sermon! Olivia is only 12 years old, but she was able to hold her own against 18 year olds at fine arts.

I am so proud of her. I feel like what I would imagine a proud mama feels like when her child does well. Congrats, Olivia! You did it!

Great Weekend!

So, I got home from Alabama around four yesterday afternoon--I have to say I had a wonderful time.

First, I met one of my best friends, Niecie, at the Galleria. We just found a place to sit, and some food and talked for nearly three hours! It was so great to see her and visit.

Then I went to my sister and her husband's house. We went and ate Mexican food, then came back to their house and played board games. It was just a good time of talking and hanging out.

Saturday, I got up only to discover it had snowed! I was so excited! I got a snow day when I didn't have to work! So, I quickly made plans to go have a snowball fight after breakfast. Well, we ate breakfast, and then I fell asleep on the couch! When I woke up, sadly the snow had melted--so no snowball fight for me :( . We later got ready and went to the galleria to shop a bit. While I was there, I ran into the pastor of my home church, and his wife. I talked to them for a while, then we met my mom and step-dad at the "California Pizza Kitchen" for dinner. Great food! We then went back to the house and played another board game.

So, it was a good visit--I don't get to see them very often so anytime I can, I cherish it. And I needed the time away just to regroup and relax a bit. I feel much better.

Oh--an update to my situation at church--I should be able to stay. I was worried about it, but some things have been put into place that will limit the amount of uncomfortable interactions I will have to have with Brett. I am so blessed to have a church family that loves me as much as they do. After much prayer, I knew I needed to stay. So, this Sunday will be the first Sunday I will be back at church. I know it will probably be very hard, but I will be okay. So, thanks to all of you who've been praying for me.

Yea Alabama!

I get a great treat this weekend. It's the first thing to make me smile in the last couple weeks. I am leaving this morning for Birmingham to visit my sister and brother-in-law! I have needed to get away for a few weeks now. It's a short trip--I'll be home Sunday. But it will be great to see her and just forget about the "real world" for a couple of days. And more good news--I think my mom and step-dad are planning to drive up and have dinner with us on Saturday--they live in Gordo, which is about an hour and a half away.

My doggie will be staying at the "doggie motel". That's what I call the kennel, so he feels like he's getting a vacation, too! He always seems to get excited when I ask him if he's ready to go to the "doggie motel"!

I swear--I am so tired of getting sick! I seem to be catching everything--my doctor doesn't seem concerned. He says everyone's sick right now. This week, I got a really bad sore throat, a bad cough, and a fever. My doctor said I had an infection--he gave me an antibiotic and today I am feeling much better. I do still have a nasty cough.
I spent two days out of work. I hated to, but I had no energy and all I did was sleep.

Well, gotta go. I think I will head home and sleep a couple of hours before I head to B'ham. I am so excited!

Breaking Up is Hard to Do

Well, it was short-lived(3 months), but I am glad I know what I know now before I spent too much time in this relationship. Brett and I broke up--this time for good. It's a long story, and I'm not going to go into it all, but let's just say I wasn't ready for the level of committment he wanted, so he decided to end things completely. It was an all or nothing deal. Then he said some pretty nasty things to me. So, I won't be having anything else to do with him. And that does hurt, but I guess that's life, and I just have to learn from this. You have to be willing to get your heart broken to have any type of relationship--right now, I am picking up a million shattered pieces. I can handle break-ups, but some of the things he said when he ended our relationship, is what hurt so bad. And the bad part--we go to the same church and are involved in the same ministries. So, now I have to make some pretty big decisions.

Just please pray. This is only one big thing going on in my life right now. it feels like everything's happening at once, and I'm feeling very overwhelmed.

Please Pray for Me

Okay, I know I have lots of friends out there in the blogger world--and I really need your help this morning. My life right now is so overwhelming. I just need prayer. I've got so many different issues going on that it's hard to even know where to begin. And I can't really go into detail right now. But just please remember my name when you pray.

Weekend Update

So, for the most part--this weekend was pretty good. Friday night, I rented "No Reservations". I cooked pork chops and Brett and I watched the movie and ate.
Then he left early, because we had to be up before daylight to head to Columbia for fine arts.
I have to say, I now know what it feels like to be a proud mama. Although I'm not her mom, I would claim her any day. Olivia entered four competitions: short sermon, human video solo, piano, and art. She got superiors on everything--and is invited to nationals for the short sermon and the human video! Those are the two that I helped her with, so it made me feel really good! She did amazing! Olivia was one of the youngest at fine arts...she's 12. The competition is for 12-18 year olds. I am so proud of her. So, we're heading to nationals, which just so happens to be in Charlotte this year!

Sunday--well, I was so exhausted that I ended up not going to church. But I did meet Mike and Heather for lunch. Then came back home to head to bed for another week at work.

Brett and I have decided to take some time off from each other to decide if we should continue to give this relationship thing a try. Don't know what will come from this week. But hopefully if we decide to not "date", then we can still be friends. We will have to see. I am just not very good at this whole relationship thing--just ask any of my former boyfriends! And I know I have a lot of things I want. But there are some "must haves" and some "can't stands" that I am dealing with right now. I don't have a lot of those, but the ones I do, I'm having to decide how important they are to me. And I am spending a lot of time in prayer so I can try not to make any big mistakes in this. Because although he's a great guy, he may not be the one God has for me and I need to be open to what God is saying.

Well, there's so much more I could talk about, but I will end now. I took some pictures at fine arts--I will try to post some soon!

Thank God It's Friday!

It is Friday, and it is raining. Looks like good sleeping weather! I am about to go home from work to start my weekend, and I am looking forward to a nice relaxing day today. Don't really have much planned. Think I may go rent a movie or something to watch tonight.

Tomorrow, if Fine Arts competition here in South Carolina. I have been helping my 12-year-old friend, Olivia, with her solo human video and her sermon. This is her first fine arts. So, we will be leaving bright and early for Columbia in the morning. It will pretty much be an all-day event. I just pray she does well. She's so talented--and nationals are in Charlotte this year, so going would be feesible if she makes it.

Have a great weekend everyone!

My Weekend

So, Valentines week is finally over--thank goodness! It's enough to make a girl go crazy with nerves! But it was fun! Didn't know I could like February 14th so much.
This weekend was a really good one. Friday, I decided to take the day for a little R&R. I turned my phone off and slept for like six hours. Then I rented two movies and got take out. I ate and watched them--then I took a bubble bath. It was so nice and refreshing. I have felt great ever since.
Saturday night, I went on my Valentines Date. We went to a restaurant called Rick Erwins http://www.rickerwins.com/. It was really nice. I had red snapper and he had steak. After we finished eating, we went on a carriage ride through downtown Greenville. Now, I had always wanted to do that, but I found that I probably would have had more fun had we not been in Greenville. For one, I felt like a fish in a fishbowl. Everyone was staring as we rode down the street. Plus, I know what Greenville looks like, so I wasn't seeing anything that I don't always see. I probably would have liked it better somewhere that I wasn't familiar with. But I really thought it was nice for him to do that for me. Just wasn't what I thought it would be.
After we left there, we went and had coffee--then he brought me home. It was a really good evening.

Valentines Day

So, I am usually the one that hates Valentines day. I mean, seriously, why do you need a special day to show someone that you love them? So, to me, Valentines Day is just a day to remind folks that are single that they're single. That's why many call it "singles awareness day".

So, this year, I have been seeing this guy for a few months. And he is bound and determined to change my mind on Valentines Day. And it's working. But I have to say, he give me flowers all the time and does sweet things for me a lot. So, my reasoning doesn't really apply in this case, anyway.

When I got to work last night, there was a huge bouquet of flowers on my desk, along with a teddy bear and Sees Candy. Now, Sees is my very favorite, but you can't get it here! So, he ordered it online! And if that's not enough, he's taking me out Saturday night. But he won't tell me where.

So, I have to say, I do like Valentines Day this year.

Meeting John Edwards and Danny Glover

In the news business, we sometimes get opportunities that many wouldn't get otherwise. Yesterday, I got one of those special opportunities. Our reporter was scheduled to interview John Edwards at a campaign rally, but we had breaking news, so she couldn't go. My boss asked me if I wanted to go, and of course, I jumped on the opportunity.

While there, I got to hear him speak, then take part in a media availability. After that, I got to meet him and talk with him one-on-one. Actor Danny Glover was campaigning with him, so I also met him and interviewed him.

((I took this picture. i don't know who this kid is--but it's a great pic of Danny Glover))

Media Frenzy

I definately found my niche over the weekend. I got the rare opportunity to cover a presidential primary from the field--and it went off without a hitch.

I left for Columbia, South Carolina, Saturday at 2pm and didn't get back until 2am, but it was so much fun. My job was to field produce--that basically means it was my job to make sure everything we had planned for the day actually happened. We had three reporters and an anchor and four photographers, plus myself and one other field producer. I was running back between campaigns--I actually got to hear parts of Mike Huckabee, Fred THompson, and Ron Paul's speeches at the end of the night. And all of our stuff made deadline. It was flawless.

This pic was taken by one of our photographers at the event. It was crazy!

Next week is the Democratic primary here. I don't know if I will get to cover it or not, but I'm really hoping I get to!

My visit with Alex

My friend, Alex, came for a visit a week ago. It was the perfect day--just visiting and enjoying each other's company. He lives in Vancouver, Canada, now, so I don't get to see him very much.

We went to eat at Sticky Fingers. Then we walked around downtown--which included a visit to Reedy Falls Park. Then we got coffee and just talked a while.

Later, we went to the movies and saw Juno. It was great.

Sadly, after that, the day was over.

But I completely enjoyed the day.

Christmas Pictures

I told you about my Christmas at home--thought I'd post some pics.

Alvin(my step-dad) got a remote control helicopter for christmas. This is him outside playing with it, with all of us watching. Here, you see Kylie(my brother,tim's girlfriend), and Lisa(my sis).






here is my grandmother and me--christmas morning.









Here's Alvin, my mom, Lisa, and Lisa's husband, Jon, while we're opening presents on Christmas morning.










Here's Tim and Kylie.









And this pic is priceless. I told you about how my step-dad hurt his leg--this is the present he was wrapping when he stabbed himself in the leg--a present for my mom.