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!

My Friend, Olivia

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

Curvaceous!

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

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

Have a great weekend everyone!

Baby Girl!

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

Love's all that Matters

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

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

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

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