Buttprints in the Sand

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










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

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

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

VACATION OVER--BACK TO WORK

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

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

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



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

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

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

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

We had planned to spend most of Saturday in Savannah before

coming home, but we ended up coming home early since

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

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

Jill is Here!

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

My trip to Asheville

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



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

this is me in old Asheville

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

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

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

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

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

Horrible Headache

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

Praise the Lord, It's Friday!

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

It's a New Car!

2007 Mustang

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

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

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

Man Hater

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Update

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

Vacation Hot Spot?

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

Breaking Up is Hard to Do

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

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

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

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

Please Pray

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

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

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

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

100th Post

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

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

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

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

Have a great weekend!

Flowers for Me!

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

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

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

Well, gotta go!

I'm so Tired

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

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

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

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

Hope everyone's having a great week!

I've Met Someone

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

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

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

Directions

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

directions from New York to Paris

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

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

April 14

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

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

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


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

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

Wedding Pictures

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

This is Lisa--isn't she beautiful?

This is me and my brothers--Timmy and Joey

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

This is my Grandma. I love her so much!

Here comes the "bridesmaids"

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

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

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

Leaving as man and wife.

Back to SC

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lisa and Erica singing and dancing.

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

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

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

NashVegas, Here We Come!

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

Ash Wednesday

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

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

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

Have a good week!

Snow in the Upstate!

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

Sorry It's Been So Long!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Have a great week!

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

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

Have a great weekend!

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas to everyone. I am sitting here at work, just finishing up a full night on the clock. I'm very sad that I wasn't able to see my family for Christmas. I had a really lonely weekend because of it. Just knowing that I would have been home all weekend if I'd been off today was heart-wrenching for me. But now, Christmas is almost over, and I have something to look forward to. I am off on New Year's Day, so I am heading home this weekend. I will have Christmas with my family then.

Well, now I'm going home. I'm going to watch a couple Christmas movies, and then I'll be back to work tonight.

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year everyone.

Deck the Halls

I spent my day Saturday at the Biltmore estate, and man, it was beautiful. The whole place is decorated for Christmas. It was a really good day. I did the audio tour, and it really added alot to the tour. Then I ate lunch at Deerpark, which is an absolutely amazing restaurant on the grounds of the Biltmore estate. After that, I went to the winery and got some more of the wonderful wine we had at Thanksgiving. Then I came home. IT was a great day.

My sister graduated magna cum laude this weekend at the University of North Alabama. Congrats, Lisa!

nothing new to report...gotta go...I'm starving!

this week

This week, for the most part, was a good one. Of course, my birthday was Monday, and I totally treated myself that day. I had a facial and then lunch with the girls. I wish everyday could be that relaxing! Then, the rest of the week, I've just been kind of chillin'. I bought my angel tree gift...I think this is a great Charity and I'm glad I was able to participate this year. It was so fun going to the store and buying for a child. I really hope the girl likes it!

Tomorrow, I think I may head up to the Biltmore Estate to see the Christmas decorations. I didn't get to go last week. And sometime this weekend, I need to finish my Christmas shopping. I have all gifts except for my sister's. Lisa, I really need some ideas!!!

Speaking of Lisa, she graduates from college tonight. And with honors! So, congrats, little sis! You did it!

And Happy 25th birthday today to my brother, Tim.

To a sad note...
Please keep the Hannah family in your prayers. They are old friends of mine from grade school that now live in southern Georgia. Anyway, one of the children...he was 24 now...died in a car accident this week. Reports are that he fell asleep at the wheel. And his brother, who was in the car with him, was taken to the hospital. I have no update on his condition. But that family needs lots of prayers right now.

Happy Birthday to Me!

Well, it's official! I am 28 years old. You know, when my mother got 29, she never aged again...for the longest time, she told people she was 29 no matter how old she was! That is, until her children got too old for people to believe it anymore! I am thinking that might be a good idea...stop aging at 29. What do you think?

I had a good day at work last night. My co-worker, Heather, made me a wonderful, chocolate cake! It was so tasty! She even brought candles, and they all sang happy birthday. It was great! Today was also a good day because our writer that's been on maternity leave is back, so we had extra help.

Now, I'm about to get ready to go to the spa to get a facial (I'm so looking forward to it!) and then I am meeting the girls for lunch!

The weekend was good. I went to the "the holiday" at the theater. It was great! And then I went downtown Greenville and walked around Friday night so I could look at all the Christmas decorations. Saturday, I did almost all of my Christmas shopping. I got everyone taken care of except my sister! I have no clue what to get her!

Well, gotta go! Have a good day everybody.

It Feels Like Winter!

I don't think I've ever been this cold in December! Some cold air from Canada gushed down here last night, and man, it's cold! It feels like it's 11 degrees outside here in Greenville. And up in the mountains, the wind chill is below freezing. People up there got a good bit of snow last night!

Okay, so I turn a year older Monday. It's my 28th birthday, and for the first time in my life, I'm really not looking forward to the celebration of my birth. As I inch closer to 30, it just reminds me that I'm getting older. I don't want to be older!

The good news is, I have plans on Monday, so I won't be sitting at home by myself. I am going to the spa for an hour to get a facial. I'm really looking forward to that. I've never spent money on myself in that way before! And then for lunch, all the girls from my morning crew will be heading to lunch at P.F. Chang's! Now, I do not like chinese food, but I love this place! The food is great!

I already received birthday gifts from my mom...thanks! I really love them! For everyone else, I accept cash, checks, or credit! Just kidding!

Well, I think I'm going to go to the movies today. "The Holiday" starts today and it looks really good. Then tomorrow, I am going to head up to Asheville (if the snow is gone) so I can go see the Biltmore estate at Christmas. I have a drama performance tomorrow night.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Hey Everyone!
So, I thought I would post some pictures that I've been itching to share! They are pretty random, so just bare with me...and enjoy!

Isn't this beautiful? I took this picture of the sunrise Thanksgiving morning at my dad's.

This is me and my nephew, Raphael. He was too busy looking at everything going on to take time to look at the camera! But he's still so cute!

Here is the fall colors that I miss so much right now. I took these at my apartment complex. I think it was so beautiful. Now, the trees are naked and blah!

And this one was just too cute not to share! This is my baby, Casey. He was sound asleep on my sofa and looking mighty confortable...complete with blanket and pillow! I swear, he thinks he's human!

It's Christmastime!

It's Christmastime! Yea! I absolutely love Christmas. Everything about it gives me warm fuzzies! All the lights, the music, and the smells of Christmas just make me feel so good inside. And thinking about Jesus and His birth just makes the season even greater.

I don't know why anyone can think about Christmas without including Christ. I mean, that's why Christmas exists. There have been several stories lately about Christmas celebrations in different cities...the one that come to mind was in Chicago...where they wouldn't allow the movie "the Nativity Story" to air during the festival because they didn't want people who weren't Christians to be uncomfortable. I really don't understand how you can differentiate between Christmas and the birth of Christ. Because the way I see it, if you didn't believe in Jesus, then why are you celebrating Christmas anyway? That's like saying, I don't believe Nicole exists, but I'm going to celebrate her birthday anyway. Christmas is just a big birthday party!

Okay, I'm off my soap-box. So, I had a wonderful visit with my family over Thanksgiving. I went to my dad's and my step-brother, Chris, along with his wife and baby, flew in from Chicago. It was the first time I got to meet the baby--he's 14 months old--and man, is he cute. His name is Raphael and he just took to me like white on rice. I went with my step-mom to the airport to pick them up and when I said hello, Raphael just fell into my arms. I had him in my hands before I could even ask if I could hold him. And it was like that all weekend. He was constantly with me. It was great! I hated to say good-bye. I love children so much, and I cannot wait until God blesses me with a couple. The weekend was also nice, because I got to know Chris's wife, Francoise. In the past, we had a really hard time communicating. She's from Paris, France, and her accent is really thick. Plus, with my thick southern accent she had a hard time understanding me as well. But I think both of us have gotten better with our English ((I didn't speak English, I spoke southern before (lol))) and we were able to enjoy each other's company. I'll post some pics next week.

I'm going to be busy this weekend...
Tonight, we have our first performance with our drama group at church. We are ministering at the Singles Bible study tonight. I'm kind of nervous. I just pray it goes well, and God uses us to minister to someone.
And tomorrow, we have our company Christmas party. I have the most awesome outfit I'm wearing. The dress code is semi-formal, and my outfit is "the bomb"! And yes, to everyone who's wondering, I'm going alone. No date this time. But that's okay...I"ll have fun with my co-workers, I'm sure.
I also plan to hang my Christmas lights on my balcony at my apartment...That should be fun!

Well, I have to get to the gym...kickboxing! Have a great weekend everyone...and don't take Christ our of Christmas.

Not Feeling Well...Again

Man, I am really getting tired of being sick. I have been sick so many times since I moved to Greenville, and here I am...sick again! I went to church yesterday, feeling just fine. Then about 30 minutes into the service, this overwhelming sense of nausea came over me. I had to leave for fear that I would get sick right there in the sanctuary. I came home, sent a couple of emails, and went to bed. I didn't even get up for drama practice. I slept until it was time to go to work.

Well, I really did not feel like being at work, but with our writer, Kate, on maternity leave, we are already short-handed. So, staying home really isn't an option. I got to work, only to find out most of our morning crew is sick. Amanda had strep-throat all weekend. Greg had stomach issues all day yesterday. And Heather wasn't even at work for 5 minutes before she had to run to the bathroom to throw up. So, we were all at work, and we were all sick. Something is definately going around. And it doesn't help when we all have to work sick. We pass it around like pre-schoolers at daycare.

So, now I'm home. I called my trainer and cancelled. Just can't work out feeling like I do right now. I think I'm going to go to bed soon.

I really hope I start feeling better soon. Thanksgiving is this week and I am going to my dad's. I really want to feel good while I'm there.

It's snowing in the mountains today (they're not that far from me). I think we're supposed to get some sleet here in Greenville. It's already raining a little. Winter is definately here. You know how I told you the leaves were so pretty a couple of weeks ago? Well, for the first time since I moved here, I think South Carolina is ugly! All the trees are bare...everything looks dead. It's just so yucky looking. I now appreciate all the evergreen trees in Alabama. But, still, I think I am going to enjoy winter here. I do hope we get some snow. I just don't like the way everything looks.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

All I want for Christmas

Just a few moments ago, I went to a friend's blog. His post simply said, "What do you want for Christmas?" It didn't take me long to answer. This year, I don't want material things. But the one thing I want, I can't have. I want to be with my family on Christmas. That would be the absolute best Christmas present ever! But I have to work, so I cannot go home.

You know, as a child, Christmas was always so magical. I knew the real reason for the season. My mom made sure to teach me about Jesus at an early age. But my dad made sure I got to experience the other side of Christmas, too. Santa Claus was very real to me growing up. I remember hearing elves run through the hall on Christmas eve, and hearing the reindeer on the roof. One Christmas morning, I went outside and found sleigh marks in the dirt. Santa was there and he was there every year!

One year when I was little, we were all spending Christmas at my grandmother's house. We used to have these big family Christmases with all the cousins. I don't know why we stopped. But it was so much fun. My brother and I were the youngest of the cousins and the older ones had a lot of fun with us because of it. One year, they were trying to get me to go to sleep on Christmas eve, but I wanted to stay awake. And you know if you're still awake when Santa comes, he won't stop. So, I was laying there and I looked out the window, and I saw Rudolph's red nose in the window. Oh no! Santa is here and I'm not asleep! What am I going to do? It was so much fun. I miss those days. I can't wait until God blesses me with children so I can bring back that childhood magic of Christmas.

Thanksgiving hasn't even passed and I'm already thinking about Christmas, but I can't help it. Christmas is all around me! On the radio, stations are already playing Christmas music...and you go to the store and there's Christmas decorations everywhere! But I don't mind. Christmas is my favorite time of year. I've been known to listen to Christmas music in July! :)

I'm going to my dad's for Thanksgiving next week. I'm really looking forward to it!!! And I get to see my nephew for the first time...he's a year old! My step-brother and his wife live in Chicago, and her family lives in France, so we don't get to see them very often.

Mondays and Martin Luther King, Jr.

Today is Monday. I hate Mondays. Yes, I know I've said that before, but I really do. I moved my training session to Mondays. I think it's good, because that's something else I hate to do, as much as I need to do it, so it just makes sense that I would do it on Mondays.

Last night, I went to drama practice. When I got there, I discovered that the drama leader wasn't going to be there. He put the practice in the hands of another girl. That didn't upset me. What did upset me was that he knew he wasn't going to be there the week before and he didn't tell us. I am a journalist. I like to be informed. I don't like things being sprung on me the last minute. And I felt like we didn't get much done.
Don't get me wrong...I enjoy this drama group. But if I am going to only get 4 or 5 hours of sleep on Sundays to go to practice, then I want it to be productive. Plus, I was tired and didn't feel like being there anyway. So, last night at work, I was not very useful, since I was so tired. I did, however, get my show finished. And I think it looked pretty good, too.

I ran a story this morning that I really love. They are building a national monument to Martin Luther King, Jr. in Washington, D.C. I think that's a wonderful thing. He will be the first African American to be honored in that way. And I really think he deserves it. So many people in this country are still very racist. It became very evident to me when I went home for my class reunion. I watched and my heart broke as the blacks and whites separated themselves from each other. Everytime we were seated...it was the white section and the black section. It is just natural for people in my home town to do that, but it broke my heart. I've been told by several people that it will always be that way there, but I pray those people are wrong. Since I've been away from Gordo, I have learned that color is only skin deep. What matters is who they are on the inside. King had a dream. And some of his dream has happened. People have rights, no matter the color of their skin, but people in the deep south still have their prejudices, and it's not only against blacks and white. It's against hispanic, chinese, indian, you name it! I pray that God will open their eyes and let them see people for who they are.

The Week's End

I'm doing a bit better than I was the last time I posted. Still feeling a bit lonely, but it's not overwhelming like it was a few days ago. Overall, this has been a good week. Monday I started working with a new trainer. Really like her. I was sore for several days following our workout. Then Monday night, I went and saw the Trans-Siberian Orchestra in concert. It was great. I had never seen anything like it! Today (friday), I went to a kickboxing class. And tonight I'm starting to feel the effects of that class! Tonight, I went to church. They had a praise and worship convention this week and the evenings were open to everyone. I really had a good time in the Lord. My friend, Patrick, and his girlfriend went with me. And it was great because I saw some of the people I'm in the drama group with and they said hello. It was great to actually know someone at church!

Tomorrow, I am going to get up and make a clean-up of my house. I deep-cleaned it last week, so I just have to maintain it. I still need to clean my bedroom. I've just been putting it off all week.
And tomorrow, I also need to go look for something for my dad and step-mom for Christmas, since I won't see them on Christmas, I need to bring them their presents on Thanksgiving. And my dad is the hardest person in the world to shop for. I never have a clue as to what to get him. HELP!!! If anyone out there had any good ideas, let me know.

I'm really looking forward to Thanksgiving. My step-brother and his wife will be at my dad's. I haven't seen them in about two years. They have a baby who's a year old, and I've never met him. So, I am really glad I will finally get to meet my nephew.


Well, I'm going to say good-bye for now. I need to go to bed!

All Alone in a Big, Big World

I'm feeling really lonely this week. More so today than I have in a long time. I have more than once the last few days felt my eyes tear up and blinked back the tears because crying won't help.

Can I be real?
Living alone gets to you sometimes. And I don't have anyone here I can go to when I feel this way. But that's nothing new. I haven't had anyone in a very long time...since before I moved to Huntsville, actually...and that was three years ago.

I don't like to share things like this that are in my heart. So many times I go on and on... trying to act like everything's okay. I don't like people knowing what's going on inside my heart. So, why now? Why am I being so candid now? I guess because it's gotten to where I just feel like I need to talk to someone about it. And the blogger world is out there, always ready to listen.

I could go on and on about the feelings I am having right now, but I will refrain from doing so. Some thoughts that I can't seem to shake keep coming to mind. Thoughts of a happy time when I was in the presence of someone I love dearly. That person is far away. It seems like everyone that I love is far away right now. Look at that...blinking back tears again.

I think it's probably the holidays getting to me. Yes, it's hard to believe Thanksgiving is upon us and Christmas isn't far behind. I get this way sometimes during this part of the year. All of the people I love the most are far away carrying on with their own lives, and here I am doing the same, but desperately wanting some companionship.

You might say, well pick up the phone and call those you miss so much. Yes, that helps, but it's not the same as being in the same room with the person, sharing conversation over a cup of coffee or tea. And since college, when my closest friends scattered, I have felt like I was all on my own. Don't get me wrong, I love South Carolina. I miss it when I'm not here. But while I was home in Alabama a couple of weeks ago, I got to visit some very dear friends, and truthfully, I didn't want to say good-bye. Why is it that life is full of good-byes...(tears again)...and never any "I'm here to stays"? I just want one person to enter my life and say "I'm not going anywhere. I'm here to stay forever." And I mean stay physically with me. Someone I never have to say good-bye to. I'm so tired of being alone.

So, here I am...hoping God here's my prayer this holiday season. Please God, you've done so much in my life this year. You rescued me from a horrible job situation in Pensacola, and gave me a great job here in South Carolina with co-workers that like and respect me. You've given me a good church and even given me a small group to start getting involved in. Now, Lord, grant this final Christmas wish. Help me not to be lonely anymore.

Fall Brilliance

It's fall and the colors here are proving it! When outside, I can't help but marvel at the beauty surrounding me. I walked around my apartment complex yesterday and just took pictures of the trees. The reds, yellows, and oranges are absolutely gorgeous! this is a picture I pulled from a website of the colors here. I'll post some as soon as I can of the ones I took.

The weather here is getting colder, too. I walked into work last night with a scarf, gloves, and a hat on and my co-workers found that quite funny! But I can already tell that I am going to be really cold this winter.

A ski resort is opening tomorrow in the mountains of Western North Carolina. That's not very far from me. Of course, it's not snowing yet, but they will be making their own snow. I guess I'm going to have to learn how to snow ski this winter.

I joined a drama group at church. I went to my first practice last weekend, and I really enjoyed it. Now, I'm thinking of getting involved with the Make-a-Wish foundation. I really love that organization, so I'm going to look into it.

Have a good weekend!

Pictures are here

I finally have pictures from my trip home to Alabama. Check out the previous post to see them!!!

10-Year Class Reunion

The Gordo High School Class of 1997. What can I say about our class. Most everyone hasn't changed much. Many, including myself, have put on some extra pounds. Some have taken some off. Some are looking much older than they are. Some haven't aged much at all. Most are married. Many have children. But not me. I'm still single and have no children. Some went to college and are now working in their chosen field. Some didn't go to college, but are working. Others are staying at home with their children. It's strange seeing
everyone in their different stages of life. We all graduated high school in the same stage of life...just starting life, actually. But what a difference 10 years can make.

If you haven't figured it out by now, I just had my 10 year class reunion. Yesterday was Homecoming at Gordo High School. We all met at the school at 10am. We had lunch together and toured both the high school and the elementary school. Then we went to the pep rally, where we had the roll call of the class of 1997. The pep rally was cut short because one of the cheerleaders fell during a flip and
hurt herself pretty bad. She's going to be okay, thank God. But
because of that, the pep rally didn't proceed as planned. We got on the flat bed trailer we called our parade float and rode through the parade. It felt like we were in a fish bowl and everyone wa gawking at the fish. The parade route went through downtown Gordo and several people were taking pictures of us. But it was funny, because there were some in our class who were taking pictures of the people watching us! I got quite a kick out of that! I guess they wanted to document the whole experience.

After all was said and done, a few of us went to "The Front Porch" to eat an early dinner. Then we went home to rest before the football game.

The Gordo Greenwave played West Blocton for Homecoming. And it was a slaughter. Gordo scored a touchdown before everyone got settled into the stadium good. West Blocton didn't score at all during the first half. They scored twice in the second half, but that was after Gordo put second and third string in. Final score? Gordo 41, West Blocton 14. After halftime, about half of the people watching the game decided the game wasn't worth their time, so they went home. It was such a boring game. I'm glad Gordo won, but I wish West Blocton would have put up a better fight and made it at least entertaining.

So, now, homecoming is over. Several of us are getting together at "Steamers" to eat dinner tonight, and then I will head back to the great state of South Carolina tomorrow morning. And then I have to go back to the great world of a working woman. I am so glad I had a week off, though. It gave me time to recouperate. I feel better right now than I have in several months. This night shift is killing me. But now, I feel good and I can go for another few months before my next vacation. I get Thanksgiving off, so I'll have four days off in a row for that. That will be nice. And I have a week off in March for Lisa's wedding. that's only five months away.

Thank you Gordo High School and Gordo Elementary School for a great Homecoming. And to the class of 1997, it was so good to see all of you. Keep in touch!

One More Work Week

I had a pretty good weekend. I spent the majority of my day Saturday at the Biltmore Estate, where I walked the trails and spent time in the gardens. I had already been in the house, but the last time I went it was pouring down rain. So, I didn't get to spend much time outdoors.


Just four more days and it's Sweet Home Alabama! I really can't wait to get home. I think I'm looking forward to sleeping at night more than anything! But I can't wait to see my family and friends, either. I haven't been home in over a year, and I haven't seen my sister is nearly two years, so it's really going to be a great homecoming. My whole first weekend is booked once I get there. On friday, we're having a big family dinner with everyone to celebrate my brother and sister's birthdays. Hers is Friday and his is Sunday. Then on Saturday, I'm going with my sister to get fitted for my dress for her wedding. And that night, she and I are going for a night out on the town. Who knows what we'll get into that night. Just as long as we get to spend some good quality time together, that's all I care about.

On Sunday, I will be visiting my childhood church, Daystar Family Church (it used to be Daystar Assembly of God) . Then on Sunday night, I get to see my best friend from high school, Jen, and her new baby girl. I am so excited! So, I will be busy for the weekend.

Monday is the start of getting ready for my high school 10-year reunion. Now, I still can't believe I've been out of high school for 10 years! But I'm getting used to the idea that I'm just getting old. Okay, so 27 isn't old, but it feels like it when you think of being out of high school for that long. And I am almost 28, which is a story all in itself. I am dreading my birthday this year. I really don't want to spend it alone, even though it looks inevitable that I will be.

Anyway, back to the reunion, where my classmates are really disapointing me and the other girls planning the reunion. As of Friday, we only had about 10 people saying they're coming to the party. Now, nearly everyone says they will take part in Homecoming, so I don't understand why they wouldn't want to come dance and be merry. But at the rate we're going, we don't have the money to have a party. So, we may have to cancel if we don't get a few more people to send in their money for the party. And that is a little depressing, since we spent so much time putting this together. Plus, we are afraid we won't have enough money to cover the costs of what we've already put into the reunion...and we still have to pay for the flowers in honor of our classmates who've died since graduation. I just really home some folks will make donations to that.

Back to the schedule as it stands...I have to get my hair cut on Tuesday, and do a few errands in Tuscaloosa while I'm there...and on Wednesday, I plan to drive up to Birmingham to see a couple of my friends there.

Friday is Homecoming...that should be fun! And then, if we have it, Saturday is the party.

It's going to be a busy week, but I just know it will be fun. On Sunday I will leave Alabama on my way back to South Carolina.

RENT

Today is Sunday, and I regret to say, I didn't make it to church today. My alarm went off, and I turned it off and went back to sleep. It was the best sleep I've gotten in a couple of weeks! I slept until almost 11:00am! And it felt good. I guess I probably needed it!

I saw the musical RENT yesterday. It was so good. The music was great and the story line is real...not some fairytale ending that never happens in real life. It was about people dealing with real issues. And the underlying theme...live for today! With songs like "No Day But Today" and "Seasons of Love", you can't miss the theme.

Here are some of the words to "No Day But Today":
There is no future
There is no past
I live this moment as my last
There's only us
There's only this
Forget regret
Or life is yours to miss
No other road
No other way
No day but today