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.

This was on Eric's blog. Thought I'd do it, too!

House Survey
1.) When you walk in your front door, which room do you enter?
living room
2.)Do you have a dishwasher?
Yes
3.) Is your living room carpeted or does it have hardwood floors?
it's carpeted
4.) Do you keep your kitchen knives on the counter or in a drawer?
Both
5.) House, apartment, duplex or trailer?
apartment
6.) How many bedrooms is it?
two
7.) Gas stove or electric?
electric
8.) Do you have a yard?
no, but i do have a balcony
9.) What size TV is in the living room?
i'm not sure. it's not huge, but it's not small either
10.) Are your plates in the same cupboard as your cups?
No
11.) Is there a coffee maker sitting on your kitchen counter?
Yes, but I never use it
13.) What room is your computer in?
the Guest Room
14.) Are there pictures hanging in your living room?
yes
15.) Are there any themes found in your home?
yes, my bedroom is all in lighthouses. and my bathroom is all pastels.
16.) What kind of laundry detergent do you use?
arm and hammer liquid
17.) Do you use dryer sheets?
no. i use the downy ball with fabric softener
18.) Do you have any curtains in your home?
Yes. But only in the living room. I made them! I am working on getting curtains for other rooms.
19.) What color is your fridge?
white
(20.) Is your house clean?
sometimes. But it's only really clean when I know I am having guests. So, call before you come! :)
21.) What room is the most neglected?
The Guest Room.
22.) Are the dishes in your sink/dishwasher clean or dirty?
dirty
23.) How long have you lived in your home?
in March it will be two years.
24.) Where did you live before?
in an aparment in pensacola, fl
25.) Do you have one of those fluffy toilet lid covers on your toilet?
yes--it's pastel purple!
26.) Do you have a scale anywhere in your house?
yes--in the bathroom
27.) How many mirrors are in your house?
four
28.) Look up. What do you see?
A white ceiling with a ceiling fan.
29.) Do you have a garage?
I wish I did for my beautiful mustang! But I'm not so lucky just yet.

Baby, It's Cold Outside!

Brrr! It is so cold!

take a look at this link. it's updated every minute--you can see the snow in western north carolina. http://www.cataloochee.com/webcam.html

they are getting 4-12 inches today. Here in Greenville area, it's flurried a bit, but nothing like that! I wish I had a fireplace to cozy up next to!

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Happy New Year, everyone. I spent the last few moments of 2007 watching the ball drop in times square! Yeah, it was really awesome! And no, I wasn't there in person :) GOtcha, didn't I.
I had to work, so I watched it on tv, then headed in to prepare for my newscast.

Christmas was really good. It was really great to be with the family during Christmas. That doesn't happen often with my job. We only had one major mishap--and it will leave you saying "only in Alabama!" My step-dad was wrapping a Christmas present with his pocket knife--yeah, he didn't want to get up to go and get the scissors--and he stabbed himself in the leg. So, he and I spent the afternoon of Christmas eve in the emergency room. He's going to be okay, thank goodness. But it was a really deep stab wound.

Well, it's time to head home for the first day of 2008. Wow. Another year is past. What are your New Year's resolutions? PLease share! Mine is pretty boring--I want to lose weight and get in shape. Isn't that what everyone says? WEll, this time I am really committed to it. I will be 30 at the end of this year, and I want more than anything to feel good about myself physically when I reach that milestone.

I have decided to put together a scrapbook of sorts about the town I grew up in. Gordo was my home for so many years, and things are changing. So, I went around town while I was home and took pictures of the Gordo I want to remember. And I am going to make a picture book all about it.

oh--good news! My friend, Alex, is visiting the South from Vancouver, CAnada. WE plan to spend the day together Saturday. I am so excited!

Have a wonderful New Year!

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!