2 posts, one day...
It is snowing in Auburn... on Christmas. Yay?!?
Most everyone and their mom is excited, I am not so much. I do not like snow. It is great to look at and fun to watch from inside, but once I have to go anywhere I immediately hate it. It causes a lot of problems and wrecks and people do not know how to drive and it's just not good for southern people.
Snow snow, please go away. Come back when I want to go skiing or something where snow is actually welcome or when I don't have somewhere that I want to go, or need to drive :).
There is my scrooge moment for this Christmas :)!
Merry Christmas again. Be safe in the snow!
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Merry Christmas to All
Merry Christmas!!!
Christmas seems to have been going on for a few days at my house, but I love it! I've been home since Wednesday and have done a bunch of shopping, wrapping, bow making and snuggling with the kittens and the dogs. It's been a pretty uneventful, but a nice relaxing time. It has been so nice having the whole family, including my sister in law, in town and at the house. The kids will most likely all be heading out tonight for the annual Christmas night on the town tonight. Should be fun.
Christmas morning with the family was a little slower than it was when we were kids, but it has been good. The tree couldn't fit all the gifts underneath it, Santa was very good to us. I got a lot of new clothes (coats, skirts, etc), keyless entry to my car (I broke my old one), Auburn stuff, a purse, among other things.
The one thing I notice about Christmas most at my house is how much it has changed since we were little. I feel like all the same excitement is there, the presents are still there, the decorations are all the same, but the feeling is different. We all enjoy actually having family time. It is a rarity to have the whole family around in the same house at the same time. We are all so busy now and are spread out in different cities that it hard to get all of our schedules aligned. It's just been nice to have everyone around, even if after a while we all start to annoy eachother (it's all part of the fun).
I hope you all are enjoying your family, and the snow if you got some!
But while family, friends, and good food is all associated with Christmas, remember Jesus is the Reason for the Season! Love you all!
Christmas seems to have been going on for a few days at my house, but I love it! I've been home since Wednesday and have done a bunch of shopping, wrapping, bow making and snuggling with the kittens and the dogs. It's been a pretty uneventful, but a nice relaxing time. It has been so nice having the whole family, including my sister in law, in town and at the house. The kids will most likely all be heading out tonight for the annual Christmas night on the town tonight. Should be fun.
Christmas morning with the family was a little slower than it was when we were kids, but it has been good. The tree couldn't fit all the gifts underneath it, Santa was very good to us. I got a lot of new clothes (coats, skirts, etc), keyless entry to my car (I broke my old one), Auburn stuff, a purse, among other things.
The one thing I notice about Christmas most at my house is how much it has changed since we were little. I feel like all the same excitement is there, the presents are still there, the decorations are all the same, but the feeling is different. We all enjoy actually having family time. It is a rarity to have the whole family around in the same house at the same time. We are all so busy now and are spread out in different cities that it hard to get all of our schedules aligned. It's just been nice to have everyone around, even if after a while we all start to annoy eachother (it's all part of the fun).
I hope you all are enjoying your family, and the snow if you got some!
But while family, friends, and good food is all associated with Christmas, remember Jesus is the Reason for the Season! Love you all!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
An early Christmas
J and I wont be together at Christmas this year since he is traveling to New Jersey/New York for family stuff and I am heading back home to Auburn.. So we decided to do Christmas last night.
It was great, I mean great. To start off the night I had him open his stocking and he had me open mine. First surprise, the best "Christmas card" ever. It was a DVD he made that had pictures from all sorts of events we have gone to and things we have done together, IN CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER. Oh my gosh I was tearing up something serious during the whole thing. It started with the weekend we consider the start of our relationship (Elizabeth and Caleb's wedding) and went on to events like braves games, Chicago, other weddings, skiing and more. It was the most precious thing ever. I have the sweetest man and am a lucky lucky girl. I will be watching a rewatching that little card forever.
I opened my stocking and found a gift certificate to a spa (NOTE: I have never been to the spa, never had a professional massage, never, not once) I mean I am so excited to go and see what it is all about and get pampered for a lil while. He knows I have always wanted to go but never would buy it for myself so now I get to experience it!
Then we opened gifts. I had a big box waiting for me so I had him open some of his gifts first. He got a USC Under Armour shirt and a cast iron skillet and then a watch. Then I opened my gift.... A KITCHEN AID MIXER! Are you kidding me... Only the best thing ever. I have always wanted one and love baking sooo now I have my very own mixer at my house instead of having to use my Mom's when I go home. Love it! Despite my obsession with pink he bought me a gray one which I love and will look good in any kitchen that I one day move into!
He had a surprise date planned too, dinner and a show, but time was not on our side last night. We made it to dinner and had a great time. Wildfire was the restaurant he chose and the food was so good. Dinner ended late so the show has to be postponed, luckily the show is still going on next week, so we are going to go next week. I have no idea what it is or where it is, but I know he hasn't let me down yet so I will probably love it!
Now he is on his way to Jersey and I am leaving tomorrow morning to be in Auburn until Monday. While I'm sad the plans we had for me to make it to Jersey to see them (we planned on my flying up Christmas night and seeing his family, and going into the city, and spending some of the holiday together) didn't work out, I'm excited to be in Auburn for a while to spend time with my family and friends.
I hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas!
It was great, I mean great. To start off the night I had him open his stocking and he had me open mine. First surprise, the best "Christmas card" ever. It was a DVD he made that had pictures from all sorts of events we have gone to and things we have done together, IN CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER. Oh my gosh I was tearing up something serious during the whole thing. It started with the weekend we consider the start of our relationship (Elizabeth and Caleb's wedding) and went on to events like braves games, Chicago, other weddings, skiing and more. It was the most precious thing ever. I have the sweetest man and am a lucky lucky girl. I will be watching a rewatching that little card forever.
I opened my stocking and found a gift certificate to a spa (NOTE: I have never been to the spa, never had a professional massage, never, not once) I mean I am so excited to go and see what it is all about and get pampered for a lil while. He knows I have always wanted to go but never would buy it for myself so now I get to experience it!
Then we opened gifts. I had a big box waiting for me so I had him open some of his gifts first. He got a USC Under Armour shirt and a cast iron skillet and then a watch. Then I opened my gift.... A KITCHEN AID MIXER! Are you kidding me... Only the best thing ever. I have always wanted one and love baking sooo now I have my very own mixer at my house instead of having to use my Mom's when I go home. Love it! Despite my obsession with pink he bought me a gray one which I love and will look good in any kitchen that I one day move into!
He had a surprise date planned too, dinner and a show, but time was not on our side last night. We made it to dinner and had a great time. Wildfire was the restaurant he chose and the food was so good. Dinner ended late so the show has to be postponed, luckily the show is still going on next week, so we are going to go next week. I have no idea what it is or where it is, but I know he hasn't let me down yet so I will probably love it!
Now he is on his way to Jersey and I am leaving tomorrow morning to be in Auburn until Monday. While I'm sad the plans we had for me to make it to Jersey to see them (we planned on my flying up Christmas night and seeing his family, and going into the city, and spending some of the holiday together) didn't work out, I'm excited to be in Auburn for a while to spend time with my family and friends.
I hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas!
Thursday, December 9, 2010
A whole month!
It has been a whole month (minus one day) since I blogged last. I'm the worst blogger, I mean seriously.
Run down of the last month:
Auburn went undefeated (meaning we beat Georgia, Bama). Last weekend was the SEC championship game. It was yet another rivalry week for J and I. He had a tailgate planned so I tagged along and was the only Auburn fan there. I was also the only happy one after the game :)! We won AGAIN! SOOO Auburn is now going to the National Championship game!!!! Wish I was able to go, but both my brothers will be there to cheer on the Tigers.
I went to New Orleans for a friends Birthday. We had such a great time. Definitely a trip we will have to do again. We had some fun nights out, some really good meals and I actually went into the casino. I dont really care for casinos, all the lights make me annoyed. I did learn to not cut time when trying to make it to the airport, we were running late and were worried we would miss our flight, but somehow we made it with a little time to spare.
The next weekend the family and I had Thanksgiving in Birmingham at my aunt and uncle's house with Mom's side of the family. We only stayed for the day and I spent a day or two in Auburn before heading back to Atlanta. I finally got Maggie back. She had stayed at my parents house for two weeks so that I could go to New Orleans without really worrying about her. Below is my fam (Mom, Caleb, Sarah, Me, Meegan, Daniel, and Dad.)
This weekend I have my company Christmas party as well as plans to go indoor rock climbing with J. I bought some groupon thing for it a while back and we are finally going to go. I'm excited!
Bible study is still going great. We are almost done with our first book and working to figure out what to do next. We added a girl as well, which is always great news.
Christmas shopping is ALMOST finished. I have one gift and a stocking to do, but then I'm done! I hope to finish that up this weekend so I dont have to worry about it anymore... I have spent far more than I hoped to, BUT I bought some fun stuff and think everyone will like it so I dont mind.
I've been listening to Christmas music for over a week now and just love it. You would think after working retail and having to hear Christmas music from late September through December that I would absolutely hate it. I guess that is one thing I will never dislike.
Now, back to work... I have a million things to do before I take my vacation time in a week and a half!
Run down of the last month:
Auburn went undefeated (meaning we beat Georgia, Bama). Last weekend was the SEC championship game. It was yet another rivalry week for J and I. He had a tailgate planned so I tagged along and was the only Auburn fan there. I was also the only happy one after the game :)! We won AGAIN! SOOO Auburn is now going to the National Championship game!!!! Wish I was able to go, but both my brothers will be there to cheer on the Tigers.
I went to New Orleans for a friends Birthday. We had such a great time. Definitely a trip we will have to do again. We had some fun nights out, some really good meals and I actually went into the casino. I dont really care for casinos, all the lights make me annoyed. I did learn to not cut time when trying to make it to the airport, we were running late and were worried we would miss our flight, but somehow we made it with a little time to spare.
The next weekend the family and I had Thanksgiving in Birmingham at my aunt and uncle's house with Mom's side of the family. We only stayed for the day and I spent a day or two in Auburn before heading back to Atlanta. I finally got Maggie back. She had stayed at my parents house for two weeks so that I could go to New Orleans without really worrying about her. Below is my fam (Mom, Caleb, Sarah, Me, Meegan, Daniel, and Dad.)
This weekend I have my company Christmas party as well as plans to go indoor rock climbing with J. I bought some groupon thing for it a while back and we are finally going to go. I'm excited!
Bible study is still going great. We are almost done with our first book and working to figure out what to do next. We added a girl as well, which is always great news.
Christmas shopping is ALMOST finished. I have one gift and a stocking to do, but then I'm done! I hope to finish that up this weekend so I dont have to worry about it anymore... I have spent far more than I hoped to, BUT I bought some fun stuff and think everyone will like it so I dont mind.
I've been listening to Christmas music for over a week now and just love it. You would think after working retail and having to hear Christmas music from late September through December that I would absolutely hate it. I guess that is one thing I will never dislike.
Now, back to work... I have a million things to do before I take my vacation time in a week and a half!
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Everyday Blessings
Let me tell you how happy I am to have found the group of girls that I do a bible study with. They are such a great group and I look forward to Wednesdays every week! We always have such a great time doing our study and building a foundation of friendship.
We are currently working through Twelve Extraordinary Women: How God Shaped Women of the Bible, and What He Wants to Do with You.
The book goes through twelve women who were a great presence in the bible. It goes through their stories, struggles, triumphs, and decisions and relates them to "modern day life." We are on week 5 or 6 now I believe and it is going great. Ruth so far is my favorite woman in the bible, I'm definitely interested in doing a more indepth study of her.
Not only is the study going well, we are all getting to know eachother so much better and it's amazing to have other women going through similar things in life who are there for encouragement, laughs, or whatever someone else needs. I love it. I can see these girls being great friends and definitely there to keep me accountable. So excited to see where this study takes each of us and how we will continue to grow as a group in the future!
We are currently working through Twelve Extraordinary Women: How God Shaped Women of the Bible, and What He Wants to Do with You.
The book goes through twelve women who were a great presence in the bible. It goes through their stories, struggles, triumphs, and decisions and relates them to "modern day life." We are on week 5 or 6 now I believe and it is going great. Ruth so far is my favorite woman in the bible, I'm definitely interested in doing a more indepth study of her.
Not only is the study going well, we are all getting to know eachother so much better and it's amazing to have other women going through similar things in life who are there for encouragement, laughs, or whatever someone else needs. I love it. I can see these girls being great friends and definitely there to keep me accountable. So excited to see where this study takes each of us and how we will continue to grow as a group in the future!
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Big Changes, New Challenges
Well I feel like it wasn't so long ago that my position at work changed, but here we go again! I will still be working as an account manager, but my region is now the opposite side of the country. Beginning January 1, 2011 I will be the account manager for the West (Washington, Oregon, California, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Arizona, Nevada, Alaska and Hawaii). Travel will be required so hopefully I will get to visit places like this:
I'm so excited to take on one of our weakest territories and rebuild it to a region that will flourish. I think we can do it. My new team is great and I'm so excited to see what we can do. This region is in serious need to some TLC and a lot of work so my challenges are high, but I will do my best to make changes and grow the region.
Last weekend was my first weekend of travel in the coming weeks. I was in Auburn for the AU vs LSU game. It was such a great trip and I was so happy to spend most of my time there with my best, Amanda. She is such a blessing in my life and no matter how long it is between our visits, we pick up right where we left off. Next trip needs to be planned ASAP. Anytime you need to get away, my place is always open.
I also got to see Elizabeth and Caleb, always a treat! These two are such great friends to me and are so great together. They are a great example of a young married couple, and will definetely have a big impact on my life for now and for the day when its my turn to be happily married like them. They are learning and growing as a couple and as individuals in their new phase of life. I just love these two and hope I am half the friend that they are to me. Below is Elizabeth and I at lunch at Big Blue! I owe you two a lunch next time :)!
This coming weekend I'm heading Columbia, SC. I have so much to do beforehand, so hopefully I get it all done. I need to figure out our Halloween costumes, clean out my car, get my oil changed (this is the first time I will have to pay for this :(, usually Dad is my mechanic), do laundry, pack, make sure Mags is taken care of and has everything she needs, among other things Im sure I'm forgetting. I will not let my list of things to-do or my busy week take any of my excitement away!
I'm so excited to take on one of our weakest territories and rebuild it to a region that will flourish. I think we can do it. My new team is great and I'm so excited to see what we can do. This region is in serious need to some TLC and a lot of work so my challenges are high, but I will do my best to make changes and grow the region.
Last weekend was my first weekend of travel in the coming weeks. I was in Auburn for the AU vs LSU game. It was such a great trip and I was so happy to spend most of my time there with my best, Amanda. She is such a blessing in my life and no matter how long it is between our visits, we pick up right where we left off. Next trip needs to be planned ASAP. Anytime you need to get away, my place is always open.
I also got to see Elizabeth and Caleb, always a treat! These two are such great friends to me and are so great together. They are a great example of a young married couple, and will definetely have a big impact on my life for now and for the day when its my turn to be happily married like them. They are learning and growing as a couple and as individuals in their new phase of life. I just love these two and hope I am half the friend that they are to me. Below is Elizabeth and I at lunch at Big Blue! I owe you two a lunch next time :)!
This coming weekend I'm heading Columbia, SC. I have so much to do beforehand, so hopefully I get it all done. I need to figure out our Halloween costumes, clean out my car, get my oil changed (this is the first time I will have to pay for this :(, usually Dad is my mechanic), do laundry, pack, make sure Mags is taken care of and has everything she needs, among other things Im sure I'm forgetting. I will not let my list of things to-do or my busy week take any of my excitement away!
Monday, October 18, 2010
Travel Travel Travel
For the record, Toy Story on Ice was so precious! A little cheesy at times, but I still loved it. Barbie and Ken were my absolute favorite characters. Still working on J and I being them for Halloween! Check out the scene where they meet in the movie/the costumes we would have to wear, hilarious!
I'm entering another couple weeks were I will be traveling A LOT. I need to put some work trips in my schedule as well, but for now, its all for my mental health :). This weekend I head home to see my family, friends, and of course my UNDEFEATED tigers play! Oh so excited! This game is a big one, I'll be on the edge of my seat all week waiting.... Is it Saturday yet? I cannot wait to see friends again. If I could up and move my job and bf to Birmingham, I would leave tomorrow.
For Halloween, I will be traveling with Jonathan. Last year we were in Knoxville for the South Carolina vs. Tennessee game and this year we will be in Columbia. I'm excited to spend more time with his college buddies! They are definitely a fun fun crowd. This time I'm going to try to keep up with them, not sure how this will go over.
The next weekend I'm reserving for rest. Well, rest and being "on call" for work (don't even get me started on this, the worst idea ever was putting us girls on tech support duty once every 9 weeks.) It's my last time this year, but it's still really annoying.
My weekend of rest will be followed by a weekend of complete chaos. I'll be in Auburn again to watch Auburn beat up on Georgia :).
After 4 days of work I'll be off to another adventure, New Orleans for a friends 25th birthday! We are going to have so so much fun!
Then Thanksgiving is here so I will go to Auburn and Birmingham to celebrate.
So add in a little travel for work in all that and I have a busy busy month and a half ahead of me. I'm so excited for it all though. Sad we are already 7 weeks through football season, but I still have 5 (maybe 6, maybe 7!) to enjoy!
Oh yea and sometime I need to plan a trip to my pretend home of Birmingham to visit all the girls that I wont get to see during these weekends that I am traveling. Maybe December...
Obviously I love love traveling, sometimes I wonder why I don't space it out a bit though. I'm hoping for a healthy winter so there are no wrenches in my plan.
I'm entering another couple weeks were I will be traveling A LOT. I need to put some work trips in my schedule as well, but for now, its all for my mental health :). This weekend I head home to see my family, friends, and of course my UNDEFEATED tigers play! Oh so excited! This game is a big one, I'll be on the edge of my seat all week waiting.... Is it Saturday yet? I cannot wait to see friends again. If I could up and move my job and bf to Birmingham, I would leave tomorrow.
For Halloween, I will be traveling with Jonathan. Last year we were in Knoxville for the South Carolina vs. Tennessee game and this year we will be in Columbia. I'm excited to spend more time with his college buddies! They are definitely a fun fun crowd. This time I'm going to try to keep up with them, not sure how this will go over.
The next weekend I'm reserving for rest. Well, rest and being "on call" for work (don't even get me started on this, the worst idea ever was putting us girls on tech support duty once every 9 weeks.) It's my last time this year, but it's still really annoying.
My weekend of rest will be followed by a weekend of complete chaos. I'll be in Auburn again to watch Auburn beat up on Georgia :).
After 4 days of work I'll be off to another adventure, New Orleans for a friends 25th birthday! We are going to have so so much fun!
Then Thanksgiving is here so I will go to Auburn and Birmingham to celebrate.
So add in a little travel for work in all that and I have a busy busy month and a half ahead of me. I'm so excited for it all though. Sad we are already 7 weeks through football season, but I still have 5 (maybe 6, maybe 7!) to enjoy!
Oh yea and sometime I need to plan a trip to my pretend home of Birmingham to visit all the girls that I wont get to see during these weekends that I am traveling. Maybe December...
Obviously I love love traveling, sometimes I wonder why I don't space it out a bit though. I'm hoping for a healthy winter so there are no wrenches in my plan.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Big Kid
Guess what I am doing this weekend (other than watching Auburn play).....
Here's your hint:
Oh yea, you guessed it, I'm going to Toy Story 3 on Ice. Haha. I feel like a little kid, getting excited about Disney on Ice. Oh well. I'm going and I'm so excited.
I might even carve a pumpkin this weekend too.
Oh to be a kid again, how nice would that be sometimes!?
Here's your hint:
Oh yea, you guessed it, I'm going to Toy Story 3 on Ice. Haha. I feel like a little kid, getting excited about Disney on Ice. Oh well. I'm going and I'm so excited.
I might even carve a pumpkin this weekend too.
Oh to be a kid again, how nice would that be sometimes!?
Friday, October 1, 2010
Be Still and Know that I am God
I'm struggling again. I like to plan, and plan in advance. I like to know and hate the unknown. I like to be comfortable in where I am going and not wonder where I might end up. I like stability and knowledge.
But that is not God's plan for me right now. My plans and my future are in his hands. He is putting me in situation and making me aware that it is his plan and not mine. He is pleading with me daily in so many parts of my life. He is asking me to trust and be patient, to be still and know that he is God.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Where did September go?
Another month has (almost) come and gone. I swear time has been flying lately. I dont know if it is because I'm really busy or what. I like it though. The faster the months go by, the faster hot weather will be here again. It's cold in Atlanta, its been cold for 2 days. Miserable.
I was in Auburn this past weekend for rivalry week between Jonathan and I (Auburn vs USC) :)! All day, I was a little worried that Auburn was just going to blow it, BUT we won! Oh I was so happy. Both teams played so hard! What a great game to go see. The boys were awfully quiet after the game, but like any good Auburn fan, I did not rub in our victory. I love to win, but that doesn't mean I should be rude to the losing team.
Below are some pictures from the day.
Jonathan, my brother Caleb, and me!
Me and Jonathan at the game
Love this picture because it captures both of us so well. And of course it show my Auburn pride and his South Carolina pride. Ignore that sticker, I took it off once, but nicely gave it back.
As this month comes to a close, I'm excited for October. More football, Toy Story 3 on Ice :), and Halloween! Hopefully I'll get to see friends too! Elizabeth, Katie, Amanda lets coordinate a weekend in Auburn!
I was in Auburn this past weekend for rivalry week between Jonathan and I (Auburn vs USC) :)! All day, I was a little worried that Auburn was just going to blow it, BUT we won! Oh I was so happy. Both teams played so hard! What a great game to go see. The boys were awfully quiet after the game, but like any good Auburn fan, I did not rub in our victory. I love to win, but that doesn't mean I should be rude to the losing team.
Below are some pictures from the day.
Jonathan, my brother Caleb, and me!
Me and Jonathan at the game
Love this picture because it captures both of us so well. And of course it show my Auburn pride and his South Carolina pride. Ignore that sticker, I took it off once, but nicely gave it back.
As this month comes to a close, I'm excited for October. More football, Toy Story 3 on Ice :), and Halloween! Hopefully I'll get to see friends too! Elizabeth, Katie, Amanda lets coordinate a weekend in Auburn!
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
It's football season!
So so excited that my favorite time of year is finally here! Well, technically it has been here a few weeks, but I haven't been able to blog since then!
I made it home for the first game of the season. So glad I got to see so many people I feel like i NEVER see! Melissa and Adam had their engagement tailgate, Elizabeth, Caleb and I met up at Momma G's and spent most of the day together, then Amanda and I met up, then Kelli and Katie came to meet me and we ALL headed to the game and then Sky Bar to wrap up the evening with a little dancing. Had such a great time with all of them!
I met a few new people too. They were all so nice! Love meeting new and fun people! Surprise, they were all currently living in Birmingham... I want to live with all of them! But, I do love Atlanta. If the two towns could just join up and everyone lived close by, it would be perfect.
I went to Charleston all last week for work. It was amazing even though I did not see the beach one time. I did get to go sailing and had a lot of great food though. Of course we did a little work in between too! Then I headed to Columbia for the UGA S. Carolina game for the weekend. I was so tired from the week before that I wasnt a very fun date, but we did get some tailgating in and I met a lot of Jonathan's friends from college, which was nice. Picture of Jonathan and I from the game. (Disclaimer: please ignore the face tattoo, I was being a supportive girlfriend :))
This weekend I was going to head home for the Auburn Clemson game, but my finances are strained. I had a root canal completed this week and had to pay that bill and had to get new tires on my car (all about $700.00). This all was done in two days! Ugh, why is it that when you get one big expense more follow. But no worries, I've already made plans to go home for the Auburn S. Carolina game the next weekend. Those tickets are already purchased and the trip is planned. Jonathan and I may or may not be on speaking terms after that weekend (he's a gamecock). Love conquers all, right? :)
My roommate got engaged during all this too! April 9, Nancy and Nick will be tying the knot! So excited for them! Only problem now, find a new roommate (who doesnt mind dogs or cats) and new place to live (that will accomodate my huge bedroom furniture, my dog, and my cat)...atleast I have a little while. EEK!
So my plan, lay low this weekend, spend as little money as possible and have a fun relaxing weekend.
I will be cheering loud for my Tigers from Atlanta so hopefully we will pull out another win! WAR EAGLE!!!!
I made it home for the first game of the season. So glad I got to see so many people I feel like i NEVER see! Melissa and Adam had their engagement tailgate, Elizabeth, Caleb and I met up at Momma G's and spent most of the day together, then Amanda and I met up, then Kelli and Katie came to meet me and we ALL headed to the game and then Sky Bar to wrap up the evening with a little dancing. Had such a great time with all of them!
I met a few new people too. They were all so nice! Love meeting new and fun people! Surprise, they were all currently living in Birmingham... I want to live with all of them! But, I do love Atlanta. If the two towns could just join up and everyone lived close by, it would be perfect.
I went to Charleston all last week for work. It was amazing even though I did not see the beach one time. I did get to go sailing and had a lot of great food though. Of course we did a little work in between too! Then I headed to Columbia for the UGA S. Carolina game for the weekend. I was so tired from the week before that I wasnt a very fun date, but we did get some tailgating in and I met a lot of Jonathan's friends from college, which was nice. Picture of Jonathan and I from the game. (Disclaimer: please ignore the face tattoo, I was being a supportive girlfriend :))
This weekend I was going to head home for the Auburn Clemson game, but my finances are strained. I had a root canal completed this week and had to pay that bill and had to get new tires on my car (all about $700.00). This all was done in two days! Ugh, why is it that when you get one big expense more follow. But no worries, I've already made plans to go home for the Auburn S. Carolina game the next weekend. Those tickets are already purchased and the trip is planned. Jonathan and I may or may not be on speaking terms after that weekend (he's a gamecock). Love conquers all, right? :)
My roommate got engaged during all this too! April 9, Nancy and Nick will be tying the knot! So excited for them! Only problem now, find a new roommate (who doesnt mind dogs or cats) and new place to live (that will accomodate my huge bedroom furniture, my dog, and my cat)...atleast I have a little while. EEK!
So my plan, lay low this weekend, spend as little money as possible and have a fun relaxing weekend.
I will be cheering loud for my Tigers from Atlanta so hopefully we will pull out another win! WAR EAGLE!!!!
Monday, August 30, 2010
While I have a moment
I figure since I have a moment now, I should go ahead and blog, it may be a while before I can blog again. My coming week is going to be jammed packed, and I need to get some work done before that week arrives.
My week ahead begins Friday (well Thursday night if you consider watching South Carolina's first game). Friday I am going home for FOOTBALL SEASON!!!!! YAY!!! It's finally game week! Friday to Monday I will be home since we have the day off on Monday for Labor Day. Not sure when I will be coming home Monday, but I'm hoping to get home sort of early so I can prepare for Charleston. Tuesday Morning I leave for Charleston (for a work sailing trip for Physician Advisory Board). We will be in Charleston until Saturday morning. Saturday morning I wake up and head to Columbia for the South Carolina vs Georgia game. I will finally be home on Sunday afternoon. Oh I am going to be EXHAUSTED, but I'm excited!
In other news, Jonathan and I went to this church service yesterday that was beyond weird. We usually go to NorthPoint Community Church and 100% normal church, but this week his mom's friends, friend was speaking at World Harvest Church in Roswell so we went. When we were pulling in I asked what denomination the church was, and was told it was non-denominational. Now thats a lie if I ever heard one, is complete lie a denomination cause this "church" would fall into that category.
The service started normal, where he talked about the story of Moses, etc. Then the strangeness happened. This man was crazy. Tim Storey was his name. He started calling people to the front who were hurting from one ailment or another and placed his hand on their heads and "cured them" causing them to faint (well some of them). Now I know the power of prayer can heal and do miracles, I know there have cancers have disappeared miraculously, etc. Are their extreme cases were people have been healed by prayer on the spot, yes, but this was not one of those cases. There was no prayer, there was no mention of scripture, or teaching, or mention of God, there was hand placement and fainting. I do not believe that one man can tour the world and heal people on the spot, whenever he feels like, as if he is Jesus.
Tim Storey is not Jesus, he is not a Godly man at all. I sat their in disbelief. Staring at him as if he were crazy. He kept looking at us as if we were wrong for doubting him, as if he could convince me that the things he was claiming were the truth. He received no claps from me, no hallelujah, no praise at all, he recieved a blank stare, stares of disbelief, and a very uncomfortable demeanor. If I was a rude person I would have walked right out of that place after telling him that all of this was bogus. I'm mad at myself for not standing up and refuting what he was telling.
While the service was weird and wrong and pretty much the opposition of what the Bible teaches, I did learn something. I am stronger in my faith than I ever thought before. This man's absolute abuse of the bible and the complete blasphemy was so appauling to Jonathan and I that we were both almost speachless when we left. This man preys on the weak and uses God holy name to do what he called "supernatural healing". I am saddened that people were looking to this man for guidance, that people were beliving what he was saying, that they were buying into the complete lies.
I guess I have been sheltered in the past. I've gone to churches that follow the bible and use the bible to teach and not to deceive. I've always been interested in learning about other religions mostly so I can even more strongly defend what I believe.
How are people so easily deceived? How do they not know the truth? Why do they put their faith in a man and not in God? I'm praying for the World Harvest Church, the congregation and for Tim Storey. Lord let them see the light and let them put trust in you.
Yes I know divine healing occurs, but not this way.
Sorry this is so long! I had a lot of time to think about this and a lot of stuff to say.
My week ahead begins Friday (well Thursday night if you consider watching South Carolina's first game). Friday I am going home for FOOTBALL SEASON!!!!! YAY!!! It's finally game week! Friday to Monday I will be home since we have the day off on Monday for Labor Day. Not sure when I will be coming home Monday, but I'm hoping to get home sort of early so I can prepare for Charleston. Tuesday Morning I leave for Charleston (for a work sailing trip for Physician Advisory Board). We will be in Charleston until Saturday morning. Saturday morning I wake up and head to Columbia for the South Carolina vs Georgia game. I will finally be home on Sunday afternoon. Oh I am going to be EXHAUSTED, but I'm excited!
In other news, Jonathan and I went to this church service yesterday that was beyond weird. We usually go to NorthPoint Community Church and 100% normal church, but this week his mom's friends, friend was speaking at World Harvest Church in Roswell so we went. When we were pulling in I asked what denomination the church was, and was told it was non-denominational. Now thats a lie if I ever heard one, is complete lie a denomination cause this "church" would fall into that category.
The service started normal, where he talked about the story of Moses, etc. Then the strangeness happened. This man was crazy. Tim Storey was his name. He started calling people to the front who were hurting from one ailment or another and placed his hand on their heads and "cured them" causing them to faint (well some of them). Now I know the power of prayer can heal and do miracles, I know there have cancers have disappeared miraculously, etc. Are their extreme cases were people have been healed by prayer on the spot, yes, but this was not one of those cases. There was no prayer, there was no mention of scripture, or teaching, or mention of God, there was hand placement and fainting. I do not believe that one man can tour the world and heal people on the spot, whenever he feels like, as if he is Jesus.
Tim Storey is not Jesus, he is not a Godly man at all. I sat their in disbelief. Staring at him as if he were crazy. He kept looking at us as if we were wrong for doubting him, as if he could convince me that the things he was claiming were the truth. He received no claps from me, no hallelujah, no praise at all, he recieved a blank stare, stares of disbelief, and a very uncomfortable demeanor. If I was a rude person I would have walked right out of that place after telling him that all of this was bogus. I'm mad at myself for not standing up and refuting what he was telling.
While the service was weird and wrong and pretty much the opposition of what the Bible teaches, I did learn something. I am stronger in my faith than I ever thought before. This man's absolute abuse of the bible and the complete blasphemy was so appauling to Jonathan and I that we were both almost speachless when we left. This man preys on the weak and uses God holy name to do what he called "supernatural healing". I am saddened that people were looking to this man for guidance, that people were beliving what he was saying, that they were buying into the complete lies.
I guess I have been sheltered in the past. I've gone to churches that follow the bible and use the bible to teach and not to deceive. I've always been interested in learning about other religions mostly so I can even more strongly defend what I believe.
How are people so easily deceived? How do they not know the truth? Why do they put their faith in a man and not in God? I'm praying for the World Harvest Church, the congregation and for Tim Storey. Lord let them see the light and let them put trust in you.
Yes I know divine healing occurs, but not this way.
Sorry this is so long! I had a lot of time to think about this and a lot of stuff to say.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Budgeting problem
I have a problem. I find way to much joy budgeting and rebudgeting and then budgeting my money again. I'm not doing this because I'm overspending, I keep doing it to ensure that I am not missing something or overusing in places that I shouldn't.
I always start my month (or the month before) planning my month out. I immediately take out thing I know I have to pay (rent, car insurance, cell phone, credit card, furniture, savings)(health insurance and 401K are taken out of my check automatically so I dont even think about those). After all that I will budget my remaining money for monthly needs. These categories include (gas, food (restaurants), shopping, groceries, alcohol (shrinking to minimal at this point) and other). Each month each of these things change depending on what is coming up. Like next month my "other" budget will be high because of football season and buying tickets. Gas is also going to be higher since I will be going back and forth to Auburn more often.
I've found that most of my money goes to eating out at restaurants. I don't even think I go out that often, but at the end of the month I look at all that money and am a little shocked. I have to work on that. I need to cook more often for sure.
While I have a good system going, I catch myself being lax on my budget sometimes. I'll buy something or go out to eat and just claim I'll take it from another category. It's so frustrating to me that I catch myself saying, oh it's ok I can just not do _______ so that I can do ________ knowing I will probably do both. I want to be more strict on my budget. I want to make sure I'm not wasting money and I'm saving enough.
I have a savings plan that I am developing and I have some work to do to get exactly where I want. Hopefully by putting out there for others to know about, I'll be much more likely to keep on track. Hopefully.
Happy Monday All!
10 days until the South Carolina Gamecocks play!
12 days, 8 hours until AUBURN TIGER FOOTBALL!!!!
I always start my month (or the month before) planning my month out. I immediately take out thing I know I have to pay (rent, car insurance, cell phone, credit card, furniture, savings)(health insurance and 401K are taken out of my check automatically so I dont even think about those). After all that I will budget my remaining money for monthly needs. These categories include (gas, food (restaurants), shopping, groceries, alcohol (shrinking to minimal at this point) and other). Each month each of these things change depending on what is coming up. Like next month my "other" budget will be high because of football season and buying tickets. Gas is also going to be higher since I will be going back and forth to Auburn more often.
I've found that most of my money goes to eating out at restaurants. I don't even think I go out that often, but at the end of the month I look at all that money and am a little shocked. I have to work on that. I need to cook more often for sure.
While I have a good system going, I catch myself being lax on my budget sometimes. I'll buy something or go out to eat and just claim I'll take it from another category. It's so frustrating to me that I catch myself saying, oh it's ok I can just not do _______ so that I can do ________ knowing I will probably do both. I want to be more strict on my budget. I want to make sure I'm not wasting money and I'm saving enough.
I have a savings plan that I am developing and I have some work to do to get exactly where I want. Hopefully by putting out there for others to know about, I'll be much more likely to keep on track. Hopefully.
Happy Monday All!
10 days until the South Carolina Gamecocks play!
12 days, 8 hours until AUBURN TIGER FOOTBALL!!!!
Thursday, August 19, 2010
The power of positive thinking
I've been doing some soul searching over the past year and found I can be a bit of a negative Nancy, so over the past few months, I've been working on being a more positive person. I have been doing so well, but recently it's been really hard to see the good in situations. I've been surrounded by a lot of negative thinking and it is beginning to take its toll.
People are not nice. They are rude and hateful, spiteful and catty. Now yes, I know not everyone is, but a lot of people I've come across lately have been. How in the world can you get the mindset that you are better than someone else? I've seen this through action towards me, actions towards others, stories told by others, rude comments, mean words, everything. I do not get it. Why act like that? What benefit do you get?
While they are doing their best to bring people down, I'm working on being compassionate to people I don't have any interest in showing compassion to. I know that this is the right thing to do, but man is it hard. I have to keep telling myself getting mad is not worth it, being mean is not worth it, compassion is my only answer, so I will keep trying.
Work is overly stressful lately and a lot of people are unhappy about one thing or another. I catch myself getting mad alongside everyone else when I know there is nothing that I can do to change the situation. It's frustrating and everyone has valid reasons to get mad, and I definitely don't think they are wrong in any way. I cannot control their thoughts or their emotions, I can only control my own. I need to keep a positive mindset, I need to try and help them see other sides, I need to put the fire out and not continue to add to it.
I've got a lot of work to do and I am going to continue to struggle, but I need to see these "bumps in the road" as great learning experiences, chances to grow. I need to learn from these on my journey to be the person I know I am meant to be.
I may not find that person completely for a while, but I am wiling to try, I'm willing to go wherever I need to go to do it, I'm willing to give up certain things knowing I will gain others. It's a long road, but I'm inching along.
What are you struggling with? What negative things can you work to make positive?
People are not nice. They are rude and hateful, spiteful and catty. Now yes, I know not everyone is, but a lot of people I've come across lately have been. How in the world can you get the mindset that you are better than someone else? I've seen this through action towards me, actions towards others, stories told by others, rude comments, mean words, everything. I do not get it. Why act like that? What benefit do you get?
While they are doing their best to bring people down, I'm working on being compassionate to people I don't have any interest in showing compassion to. I know that this is the right thing to do, but man is it hard. I have to keep telling myself getting mad is not worth it, being mean is not worth it, compassion is my only answer, so I will keep trying.
Work is overly stressful lately and a lot of people are unhappy about one thing or another. I catch myself getting mad alongside everyone else when I know there is nothing that I can do to change the situation. It's frustrating and everyone has valid reasons to get mad, and I definitely don't think they are wrong in any way. I cannot control their thoughts or their emotions, I can only control my own. I need to keep a positive mindset, I need to try and help them see other sides, I need to put the fire out and not continue to add to it.
I've got a lot of work to do and I am going to continue to struggle, but I need to see these "bumps in the road" as great learning experiences, chances to grow. I need to learn from these on my journey to be the person I know I am meant to be.
I may not find that person completely for a while, but I am wiling to try, I'm willing to go wherever I need to go to do it, I'm willing to give up certain things knowing I will gain others. It's a long road, but I'm inching along.
What are you struggling with? What negative things can you work to make positive?
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Weeks go by
It's been a while and a day since I updated! I really have got to stick to my plan of a blog a week. I'll get better, hopefully.
Well in the past few weeks I have traveled for work (Virginia), traveled for fun (Lake trip in North Carolina) and stuck around Atlanta a bit.
One big thing that happened was my brother graduated! Caleb graduated from Auburn on August 9. I'm so proud of him! He has worked so hard to get finished! We had a big celebration at my parents house with my whole family. I always love getting everyone together, so hopefully it won't be too long before we get to do it again. Below is a picture of my sister-in-law Meegan, My brother Daniel, Brother Caleb, Sister Sarah and me!
I adopted a kitten over the past couple of weeks too. My sisters cat had 4 kittens and they needed homes. She got 1 adopted, adopted 1 herself and had 2 remaining. These kittens are precious so I decided, why not, I love cats, and I'm sure Maggie won't mind. Anyways, she's precious. Sarah named her Esther, but I quickly changed that and she is now Chloe. My roommates aren't sure about this whole cat thing, so Sarah will be holding onto Chloe for me for a little while. There is still one cat up for adoption if you know anyone that wants one!
In more news, Auburn football starts soo soo soon! I cannot wait! Im excited to see so many friends I haven't seen in a while. WAR EAGLE, 18 days!
Well in the past few weeks I have traveled for work (Virginia), traveled for fun (Lake trip in North Carolina) and stuck around Atlanta a bit.
One big thing that happened was my brother graduated! Caleb graduated from Auburn on August 9. I'm so proud of him! He has worked so hard to get finished! We had a big celebration at my parents house with my whole family. I always love getting everyone together, so hopefully it won't be too long before we get to do it again. Below is a picture of my sister-in-law Meegan, My brother Daniel, Brother Caleb, Sister Sarah and me!
I adopted a kitten over the past couple of weeks too. My sisters cat had 4 kittens and they needed homes. She got 1 adopted, adopted 1 herself and had 2 remaining. These kittens are precious so I decided, why not, I love cats, and I'm sure Maggie won't mind. Anyways, she's precious. Sarah named her Esther, but I quickly changed that and she is now Chloe. My roommates aren't sure about this whole cat thing, so Sarah will be holding onto Chloe for me for a little while. There is still one cat up for adoption if you know anyone that wants one!
In more news, Auburn football starts soo soo soon! I cannot wait! Im excited to see so many friends I haven't seen in a while. WAR EAGLE, 18 days!
Friday, July 30, 2010
When all I want to be is selfish
I'm learning something about myself. I have been very selfish in my lifetime.
Not a shocking revelation, as most of us have been selfish at one point or another in our lives. As hard as it is to admit it, I'm sure we all have a weak moment or two where we continue to express our selfish nature. I hate it, but I know acknowledging it is a good first step to becoming more self-less. I have wants and I have desires for my life and that's ok. I want to still have dreams for myself, I just don't want those dreams to ever be fulfilled at the expense of another.
I want what is best for the people in my life. Where I find myself being selfish is when those things affect me. For example, my bestfriend moved to Mobile for college a few years after I started Auburn, and I wanted her to stay in Auburn. I wanted to have my friend there, I wanted to be part of her life, and I wanted her to be a part of mine. Of course I lost this battle and she left for school. But now I see why she did. Despite the distance between us, she is still my bestfriend years later. We still talk, maybe not as regularly, but enough to keep a friendship going. She met a great man and is finishing school. She's grown so much, most of which I don't think would have happened unless she got away from Auburn. I'm glad she moved now. If only I had seen that all back then.
I have to remember that just because the people I love may be moving or pursuing a dream or making a change in their lives, it doesn't mean that our relationship will change. People are going to pursue goals and make changes in their lives, and now I'm ready to put their wants and dreams and desires in front of my own.
I want to be self-less and one day I hope to be pretty close to it, but until then, I will struggle, I will cry, I will have to fight with myself and let myself know that it is all for the best. I will get mad and close up, I will be shocked and surprised, I will have loss and gain, but I know that no matter what God has a plan for me and has a plan for them and he will not give me more than I can handle.
I cannot wait to see where I am in 5 years, but even more so I cannot wait to see where those people that mean the most to me will be. I'm so excited for the future and for what is to come.
Not a shocking revelation, as most of us have been selfish at one point or another in our lives. As hard as it is to admit it, I'm sure we all have a weak moment or two where we continue to express our selfish nature. I hate it, but I know acknowledging it is a good first step to becoming more self-less. I have wants and I have desires for my life and that's ok. I want to still have dreams for myself, I just don't want those dreams to ever be fulfilled at the expense of another.
I want what is best for the people in my life. Where I find myself being selfish is when those things affect me. For example, my bestfriend moved to Mobile for college a few years after I started Auburn, and I wanted her to stay in Auburn. I wanted to have my friend there, I wanted to be part of her life, and I wanted her to be a part of mine. Of course I lost this battle and she left for school. But now I see why she did. Despite the distance between us, she is still my bestfriend years later. We still talk, maybe not as regularly, but enough to keep a friendship going. She met a great man and is finishing school. She's grown so much, most of which I don't think would have happened unless she got away from Auburn. I'm glad she moved now. If only I had seen that all back then.
I have to remember that just because the people I love may be moving or pursuing a dream or making a change in their lives, it doesn't mean that our relationship will change. People are going to pursue goals and make changes in their lives, and now I'm ready to put their wants and dreams and desires in front of my own.
I want to be self-less and one day I hope to be pretty close to it, but until then, I will struggle, I will cry, I will have to fight with myself and let myself know that it is all for the best. I will get mad and close up, I will be shocked and surprised, I will have loss and gain, but I know that no matter what God has a plan for me and has a plan for them and he will not give me more than I can handle.
I cannot wait to see where I am in 5 years, but even more so I cannot wait to see where those people that mean the most to me will be. I'm so excited for the future and for what is to come.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
I'm worn out already and the fun has just begun
First of all, Chicago was amazing! We had so much fun exploring the city and getting to know new friends. We arrived Thursday night and spent most of the night just talking, but we also took a long walk around Lincoln Park where they lived. What a fun part of the town. Full of young professionals and some young families, the Family Matters house was apparently in the this area too! (Fun fact we learned!)
Friday we walked some more, took a walk on Michigan Avenue and saw the set of the Transformers 3 movie. Michigan Avenue was torn up, wrecked cars everywhere, random shoes and clothes from the actors, and enough security to ensure nothing was going to happen. It was really cool to see in person, maybe I'll actually go see this Transformers movie.
We also took an architecture boat tour, I wasn't sure how I would like this, but ended up finding it really interesting. There is so much history in Chicago and the buildings tell an interesting story. We learned a lot and had fun. We had lunch at the Hancock Building that afternoon (The Signature Room to be more exact). That view is amazing. You can see the whole city from up there! The food was ok, but the view was well worth the 90something story elevator ride. Below is a picture I took during the tour.
Jonathan got to go to a Cubs game, but the girls got down there too late so we watched in from a restaurant in Wrigleyville. He had a great time and I'm glad he got the experience. Besides, with all the girls that were there, those boys needed some good quality man time.
The rest of the weekend was spent eating at BYOB restaurants (BEST IDEA EVER), seeing more of the city, and enjoying fun nights out.
Just when I thought I was still tired from that trip my schedule got crammed with new trips (some for fun, some for work) over the next 2 months.
I have to go to New Jersey next week, Virginia the next, then Chicago again with Amanda (still being determined), Auburn for graduation (my brother is graduating!) Then Charleston for work and Columbia for fun. And then we are already into football season sooo I'll be making a trip down to Auburn a few times too!
Auburn's football season starts in 44 days! WAR EAGLE!
Friday we walked some more, took a walk on Michigan Avenue and saw the set of the Transformers 3 movie. Michigan Avenue was torn up, wrecked cars everywhere, random shoes and clothes from the actors, and enough security to ensure nothing was going to happen. It was really cool to see in person, maybe I'll actually go see this Transformers movie.
We also took an architecture boat tour, I wasn't sure how I would like this, but ended up finding it really interesting. There is so much history in Chicago and the buildings tell an interesting story. We learned a lot and had fun. We had lunch at the Hancock Building that afternoon (The Signature Room to be more exact). That view is amazing. You can see the whole city from up there! The food was ok, but the view was well worth the 90something story elevator ride. Below is a picture I took during the tour.
Jonathan got to go to a Cubs game, but the girls got down there too late so we watched in from a restaurant in Wrigleyville. He had a great time and I'm glad he got the experience. Besides, with all the girls that were there, those boys needed some good quality man time.
The rest of the weekend was spent eating at BYOB restaurants (BEST IDEA EVER), seeing more of the city, and enjoying fun nights out.
Just when I thought I was still tired from that trip my schedule got crammed with new trips (some for fun, some for work) over the next 2 months.
I have to go to New Jersey next week, Virginia the next, then Chicago again with Amanda (still being determined), Auburn for graduation (my brother is graduating!) Then Charleston for work and Columbia for fun. And then we are already into football season sooo I'll be making a trip down to Auburn a few times too!
Auburn's football season starts in 44 days! WAR EAGLE!
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Vacation!
Going to Chicago in 2 DAYS!!! So excited! I've heard only great things (minus their horrible winters) about Chicago and I'm so excited to experience it myself and with Jonathan! We always have a great time on our vacations.
In other news, my best friend Amanda called me last night and I may be taking a second trip to Chicago in like 2 weeks. 2 trips to a new city in a two week time, umm yea! Her boss said he would send her and friend, so lets see if that comes about and we actually go! I hope so, I definetely don't see her enough, and it has been years since we went on a trip together. I'm thinking girls trips should be a yearly thing, just got to get her out of school first.
I joined a softball team. Ha, I'm hilariously bad. I can catch fine and throw fine, but hitting is PATHETIC. Definetely need to work on that. Second game is tomorrow. I'll let you know how that goes. I hoping not to strike out...again...
Other than that, life is great. I'll update you all on Chicago, hopefully I will have some good pictures!
Ps... I miss my college buds... reunion weekend needed ASAP. (Hear that Elizabeth?)
In other news, my best friend Amanda called me last night and I may be taking a second trip to Chicago in like 2 weeks. 2 trips to a new city in a two week time, umm yea! Her boss said he would send her and friend, so lets see if that comes about and we actually go! I hope so, I definetely don't see her enough, and it has been years since we went on a trip together. I'm thinking girls trips should be a yearly thing, just got to get her out of school first.
I joined a softball team. Ha, I'm hilariously bad. I can catch fine and throw fine, but hitting is PATHETIC. Definetely need to work on that. Second game is tomorrow. I'll let you know how that goes. I hoping not to strike out...again...
Other than that, life is great. I'll update you all on Chicago, hopefully I will have some good pictures!
Ps... I miss my college buds... reunion weekend needed ASAP. (Hear that Elizabeth?)
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
4th of July
So the 30 day challenge is going slow and I'm making it more of a maybe 6 month challenge. I'll keep you updated on my first one, whenever I do it. Hey, atleast I already know who im writing most of the 30 day challenges about. I still can't decide if I want to write them on here though, some will be pretty personal, maybe I'll pick a choose :)!
4th of July weekend was amazing. I got some pool time in as well as a day at the lake so I was a happy camper. Lake Martin was packed, as always. We took a boat ride to chimney rock ( a rock I've jumped off several times). This time I climbed it, looked down, and freaked out so I climbed back down. Yea, pathetic I know. Jonathan jumped though so atleast he had his first experience.
My most favorite thing about the 4th are the fireworks though. We were all sitting on the dock talking and made a quick decision to jump on the boat and watch them from on the water. We drove out a little ways and just sat, blaring (I mean BLARING) techno music (hilarious) and enjoying the fireworks. I love love love them. Wish we had made it to a actual show, but the random fireworks being shot off were good too.
After my "day off" yesterday (I was "on call" and there was absolutely no day off for me) I'm back at work and looking forward to my next vacay... IN 9 DAYS!!! Jonathan and I are going to Chicago! We are meeting up with some of his friends from a Europe trip he took a few years back. I'm a little nervous about not knowing anyone... but I'm sure it will be fun. There are quite a few jammed packed days on our itinerary... EEEK so excited! Is it July 15th yet?!?
I hope everyone had a wonderful 4th!
4th of July weekend was amazing. I got some pool time in as well as a day at the lake so I was a happy camper. Lake Martin was packed, as always. We took a boat ride to chimney rock ( a rock I've jumped off several times). This time I climbed it, looked down, and freaked out so I climbed back down. Yea, pathetic I know. Jonathan jumped though so atleast he had his first experience.
My most favorite thing about the 4th are the fireworks though. We were all sitting on the dock talking and made a quick decision to jump on the boat and watch them from on the water. We drove out a little ways and just sat, blaring (I mean BLARING) techno music (hilarious) and enjoying the fireworks. I love love love them. Wish we had made it to a actual show, but the random fireworks being shot off were good too.
After my "day off" yesterday (I was "on call" and there was absolutely no day off for me) I'm back at work and looking forward to my next vacay... IN 9 DAYS!!! Jonathan and I are going to Chicago! We are meeting up with some of his friends from a Europe trip he took a few years back. I'm a little nervous about not knowing anyone... but I'm sure it will be fun. There are quite a few jammed packed days on our itinerary... EEEK so excited! Is it July 15th yet?!?
I hope everyone had a wonderful 4th!
Monday, June 21, 2010
30 Day Challenge
One of my twitter friends and a fellow Auburn PR girl has been doing a 30 day challenge through her blog. I absolutely love the idea and will now be adopting the idea for myself. I haven't quite decided if I want to blog about it or if I just want to write the letters and keep them for myself, but I'm not easily embarrassed so I'll probably post them here :)
This concept is really simple, but so powerful. You have a list of people you will write letters to, some people you know, some people you wish you knew, people you once knew, and complete strangers. I think the idea is not only a great one, I think it is going to be a great way to reflect on the importance that people have in my life. Even a stranger can impact your day and make it or break it (despite what we try to let them do). So over the next 30 days (or let's face it, probably 60-90 days :)) I will be writing letters to people I love, people I hate, those who have hurt me, or those that made my day. I'm probably going to complete the list in my own way and write them out of order, but I will write at least one letter to each personl.
I want this time to be a time where I can reflect and grow as a person through the people in my life. I don't even know who I am going to write about for some of these, but others are obvious. I'm excited for this new journey of learning I will now embark on!
Below is the list:
Day 1 — Your Best Friend
Day 2 — Your Crush
Day 3 — Your parents
Day 4 — Your sibling (or closest relative)
Day 5 — Your dreams
Day 6 — A stranger
Day 7 — Your Ex-boyfriend/girlfriend/love/crush
Day 8 — Your favorite internet friend
Day 9 — Someone you wish you could meet
Day 10 — Someone you don’t talk to as much as you’d like to
Day 11 — A Deceased person you wish you could talk to
Day 12 — The person you hate most/caused you a lot of pain
Day 13 — Someone you wish could forgive you
Day 14 — Someone you’ve drifted away from
Day 15 — The person you miss the most
Day 16 — Someone that’s not in your state/country
Day 17 — Someone from your childhood
Day 18 — The person that you wish you could be
Day 19 — Someone that pesters your mind—good or bad
Day 20 — The one that broke your heart the hardest
Day 21 — Someone you judged by their first impression
Day 22 — Someone you want to give a second chance to
Day 23 — The last person you kissed
Day 24 — The person that gave you your favorite memory
Day 25 — The person you know that is going through the worst of times
Day 26 — The last person you made a pinky promise to
Day 27 — The friendliest person you knew for only one day
Day 28 — Someone that changed your life
Day 29 — The person that you want tell everything to, but too afraid to
Day 30 — Your reflection in the mirror
This concept is really simple, but so powerful. You have a list of people you will write letters to, some people you know, some people you wish you knew, people you once knew, and complete strangers. I think the idea is not only a great one, I think it is going to be a great way to reflect on the importance that people have in my life. Even a stranger can impact your day and make it or break it (despite what we try to let them do). So over the next 30 days (or let's face it, probably 60-90 days :)) I will be writing letters to people I love, people I hate, those who have hurt me, or those that made my day. I'm probably going to complete the list in my own way and write them out of order, but I will write at least one letter to each personl.
I want this time to be a time where I can reflect and grow as a person through the people in my life. I don't even know who I am going to write about for some of these, but others are obvious. I'm excited for this new journey of learning I will now embark on!
Below is the list:
Day 1 — Your Best Friend
Day 2 — Your Crush
Day 3 — Your parents
Day 4 — Your sibling (or closest relative)
Day 5 — Your dreams
Day 6 — A stranger
Day 7 — Your Ex-boyfriend/girlfriend/love/crush
Day 8 — Your favorite internet friend
Day 9 — Someone you wish you could meet
Day 10 — Someone you don’t talk to as much as you’d like to
Day 11 — A Deceased person you wish you could talk to
Day 12 — The person you hate most/caused you a lot of pain
Day 13 — Someone you wish could forgive you
Day 14 — Someone you’ve drifted away from
Day 15 — The person you miss the most
Day 16 — Someone that’s not in your state/country
Day 17 — Someone from your childhood
Day 18 — The person that you wish you could be
Day 19 — Someone that pesters your mind—good or bad
Day 20 — The one that broke your heart the hardest
Day 21 — Someone you judged by their first impression
Day 22 — Someone you want to give a second chance to
Day 23 — The last person you kissed
Day 24 — The person that gave you your favorite memory
Day 25 — The person you know that is going through the worst of times
Day 26 — The last person you made a pinky promise to
Day 27 — The friendliest person you knew for only one day
Day 28 — Someone that changed your life
Day 29 — The person that you want tell everything to, but too afraid to
Day 30 — Your reflection in the mirror
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Dad
Another weekend, another trip away from Atlanta. I'm almost looking forward to a weekend in the city next weekend (it's been a while)!
While I am excited to be in Atlanta for a full weekend, I'm more excited to be home this weekend to spend Father's Day weekend with my Daddy.
What an amazing man he is. I'm so blessed to have a Father who would do anything for me and who has taught me so many things about life!
Thank you Daddy for teaching me to be compassionate, teaching me unconditional love, being so patient and for being the man you are!
I love my Dad!
(This is a picture of my Dad and brothers from my brother's wedding last weekend. Which was wonderful btw... post to come soon on that!)
While I am excited to be in Atlanta for a full weekend, I'm more excited to be home this weekend to spend Father's Day weekend with my Daddy.
What an amazing man he is. I'm so blessed to have a Father who would do anything for me and who has taught me so many things about life!
Thank you Daddy for teaching me to be compassionate, teaching me unconditional love, being so patient and for being the man you are!
I love my Dad!
(This is a picture of my Dad and brothers from my brother's wedding last weekend. Which was wonderful btw... post to come soon on that!)
Monday, June 7, 2010
Daily reminders that I'm getting older
I swear I think I get a daily reminder that I am getting old. I know I am still young, but sometimes I just wish I could go back to childhood (where it was simpler), high school (where everything seemed so easy) or college (an amazing time). Instead, I'm a college grad of almost 1.5 years, a 8-5 employee, a bridesmaid, a friend of a bride or groom, bill payer, etc etc etc. The list goes on and on.
What I love though, is that some of the situations that make me feel like I'm becoming more and more of an independent adult also fill me with the joy of a child.
This past weekend was Jessica and Taylor Schach's wedding. What an amazing event. She looked beautiful and he was handsome as well. It was such a blessing to be a witness to one of the most important days of their lives. The joy I feel when my friends are getting married, having children, accepting job offers, is a feeling that I cannot even express. I love being a part of so many amazing events and no matter how adult I may be, it's never enough to take that joy away.
This coming weekend I will be watching my brother get married! Now that will be an event to remember. My first sibling getting married, my first sister-in-law! I cannot wait to have another sister. Meegan's pretty much been a member of our family for like 9 years now, but now it will be official. I sense tears of joy in my near future.
Here's a picture of the soon to be married couple
As for me, other than wedding attendance, my job is changing a little bit too! I will now be doing strictly account management now. No more database stuff and less training, I'm excited! So ready to start getting ramped up with my two regions (pretty much the right half of the US) I'll keep you updated!
What I love though, is that some of the situations that make me feel like I'm becoming more and more of an independent adult also fill me with the joy of a child.
This past weekend was Jessica and Taylor Schach's wedding. What an amazing event. She looked beautiful and he was handsome as well. It was such a blessing to be a witness to one of the most important days of their lives. The joy I feel when my friends are getting married, having children, accepting job offers, is a feeling that I cannot even express. I love being a part of so many amazing events and no matter how adult I may be, it's never enough to take that joy away.
This coming weekend I will be watching my brother get married! Now that will be an event to remember. My first sibling getting married, my first sister-in-law! I cannot wait to have another sister. Meegan's pretty much been a member of our family for like 9 years now, but now it will be official. I sense tears of joy in my near future.
Here's a picture of the soon to be married couple
As for me, other than wedding attendance, my job is changing a little bit too! I will now be doing strictly account management now. No more database stuff and less training, I'm excited! So ready to start getting ramped up with my two regions (pretty much the right half of the US) I'll keep you updated!
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Uh oh, I slacked again!
It's been 3 weeks... I tried to make myself blog once a week, but failed. I'll try harder now.
Well the past 3 weeks haven't been all too eventful. I did run the Susan G Komen 5K Mother's Day Weekend. It was amazing. 16,000+ people joining together to for such an amazing cause. I definitely teared up once or twice during my run thinking about how many people this terrible disease affects. I am by no means a runner, and I struggled a little at times, but I kept reminding myself that if my grandmother can fight breast cancer, I can run a race in celebration of her.
I got to see a friend from college last week. Kelli and I had classes together in PR and she was up in ATL for training. We went to a Braves game last Wednesday, and my Braves won! I was so happy. It was so great spending time with her. She's such a great person. Too bad she had to move to B'ham and not Atlanta! It reminded me a lot of college and made me miss all my college friends.
I joined a group that is associated with the Boys and Girls Club. It's a young professionals group that volunteers and does some things for the children of Atlanta. I hope this group is what I expect. I've been trying to find a place to fulfill my passion to help people and I hope this is it.
I've also signed up to begin a bible study through NPCC (North Point Community Church). This doesn't start until August, but I'm so excited to start and meet some great Godly women. I want to surround myself with people who will continue to help me grow as a person, and as a christian. Hopefully this is the group to help me do that. I'll keep you posted on that as it gets closer!
I'M SO EXCITED for Jessica DeLoach's Bachelorette Party this weekend! Fun girls weekend ahead. Elizabeth and I have been planning for the lingerie shower while we are there and we have everything ready. I cannot wait to see these girls and meet a few others (Jessica's HS friends/friends from home) while we are there!
Happy 1st year of marriage Caleb and Elizabeth! I love you both!
Last but definitely not least, Jonathan and I celebrated our "1 year" last weekend! We aren't 100% sure when we exactly started dating so we decided that it was the weekend of Elizabeth's Wedding. It's been a great year of growing together and growing as individuals. I'm excited to see what is in store for us. Love you Jonathan James!
I hope everyone has an amazing Memorial Day weekend!
Well the past 3 weeks haven't been all too eventful. I did run the Susan G Komen 5K Mother's Day Weekend. It was amazing. 16,000+ people joining together to for such an amazing cause. I definitely teared up once or twice during my run thinking about how many people this terrible disease affects. I am by no means a runner, and I struggled a little at times, but I kept reminding myself that if my grandmother can fight breast cancer, I can run a race in celebration of her.
I got to see a friend from college last week. Kelli and I had classes together in PR and she was up in ATL for training. We went to a Braves game last Wednesday, and my Braves won! I was so happy. It was so great spending time with her. She's such a great person. Too bad she had to move to B'ham and not Atlanta! It reminded me a lot of college and made me miss all my college friends.
I joined a group that is associated with the Boys and Girls Club. It's a young professionals group that volunteers and does some things for the children of Atlanta. I hope this group is what I expect. I've been trying to find a place to fulfill my passion to help people and I hope this is it.
I've also signed up to begin a bible study through NPCC (North Point Community Church). This doesn't start until August, but I'm so excited to start and meet some great Godly women. I want to surround myself with people who will continue to help me grow as a person, and as a christian. Hopefully this is the group to help me do that. I'll keep you posted on that as it gets closer!
I'M SO EXCITED for Jessica DeLoach's Bachelorette Party this weekend! Fun girls weekend ahead. Elizabeth and I have been planning for the lingerie shower while we are there and we have everything ready. I cannot wait to see these girls and meet a few others (Jessica's HS friends/friends from home) while we are there!
Happy 1st year of marriage Caleb and Elizabeth! I love you both!
Last but definitely not least, Jonathan and I celebrated our "1 year" last weekend! We aren't 100% sure when we exactly started dating so we decided that it was the weekend of Elizabeth's Wedding. It's been a great year of growing together and growing as individuals. I'm excited to see what is in store for us. Love you Jonathan James!
I hope everyone has an amazing Memorial Day weekend!
Monday, May 3, 2010
The Five Love Languages
This week has been a busy one. I spent 3 days on a work trip, my first offsite training! It was scary, but fun. I was in Kansas City and Wichita. I felt like it was the first day of school when I was getting ready that morning, I swear I changed my clothes like 5 times. All went well though, and I'm proud to say, I think they are all ready. I rounded with one of our current users as well. For someone who hates hospitals, maybe the healthcare field wasn't the best idea.... I did make it through the day without passing out or feeling sick, so maybe I'm getting better! I hope so at least!
This trip let me have a little down time which gave me the opportunity to finish a book I have been wanting to finish. I bought Gary Chapman's "The Five Love Languages" a few months back and I almost forgot I had it until someone mentioned it to me a few weeks back. Well, thankfully I finally had some downtime where I was able to read it. I HIGHLY recommend this book to any and everyone.
Gary Chapman first wrote "The Five Love Languages" for married couples, but quickly realized there were quite a few singles also reading it so he wrote some other editions including singles, teenagers, and children. I read the Single edition, but plan to read his original version soon.
It talks about each person has a primary way that they feel loved by the people in their life. Each person may have a different primary love language, but everyone pretty much falls into one of five categories. The five categories in which a person feels and expresses love are quality time, words of affirmation, acts of service, gifts and physical touch. He goes into depth and further breaks down each of the categories and explains each.
I plan to use the things I learned in this book to make my relationships grow, to feel closer to those I love and to show them more often that I love them. It may seem like common sense, but you would be surprised how it will relate to you and your relationships with those you love.
This trip let me have a little down time which gave me the opportunity to finish a book I have been wanting to finish. I bought Gary Chapman's "The Five Love Languages" a few months back and I almost forgot I had it until someone mentioned it to me a few weeks back. Well, thankfully I finally had some downtime where I was able to read it. I HIGHLY recommend this book to any and everyone.
Gary Chapman first wrote "The Five Love Languages" for married couples, but quickly realized there were quite a few singles also reading it so he wrote some other editions including singles, teenagers, and children. I read the Single edition, but plan to read his original version soon.I found some of the scenarios in the single edition kind of silly and the dialogue very unrealistic, but the message was a good one.
It talks about each person has a primary way that they feel loved by the people in their life. Each person may have a different primary love language, but everyone pretty much falls into one of five categories. The five categories in which a person feels and expresses love are quality time, words of affirmation, acts of service, gifts and physical touch. He goes into depth and further breaks down each of the categories and explains each.
It was so interesting to read it and really think about my primary love language (quality time) as well as the love language of those in my life. While he did intend to write this for those who were married (or getting married), it also relates to the love you have for family, friends, significant others, coworkers, etc. It lays out the way to make a marriage/relationship with a gf/bf reach its full potential, not fizzle out after the initial "honeymoon phase," and continue to grow throughout life. But beside that it will help you strengthen friendships and make you the best friend you can be to each particular person.
I plan to use the things I learned in this book to make my relationships grow, to feel closer to those I love and to show them more often that I love them. It may seem like common sense, but you would be surprised how it will relate to you and your relationships with those you love.
I sounds like I'm doing a commercial for this book, ha nothing like free publicity. It's great though, if you're interested Amazon has it for like $8.99.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Let Go and Let God
It's been a week or so since my last blog and man have things changed already. I'm still running, trying to get myself ready for the run in 15 or so days. I'm still enjoying Atlanta and I'm more in love than ever, but some things have changed a bit.
Why is it that it takes something bad or something scary to make you sit back and think "What am I doing?" "Why is it that sometimes I forget that I need to Let Go and Let God?" "Why do I need reminders to be patient, when I am so good at reminding others to do just that?" This weekend allowed me to do some serious soul searching. Something I've tried to do and never really completed. (Yes I know this will never be complete, but instead of getting too far in, I let myself get distracted and ignore the issues).
As most all of you know, I am quick to speak. I can be a bit forward, and tend to tell it like it is. There are very few times that I'm actually intending to be mean to someone (thank goodness for this), but I understand that sometimes I am misinterpreted. While I embrace portions of my "quick tongue" I do not love it all. I do not love that people take things that I say the wrong way, I don't like that I have hurt people by the things I've said, I don't like that often times I say things that some may find shocking or unneccessary. And what most annoying, is it is by no fault but my own. I'm working on myself. I'm allowing God to work through me. I am trying to figure out what made me the way I am, and what I can do to tone it down.
I am impatient. I am quick to talk about things that don't need to be talked about, just so I can know. I like to jump the gun on things. I like to know what is coming and what my life will bring. Oh man oh man, did God put the quick breaks on me. I can just imagine him chuckling to himself saying "Slow down Erin, for I have a plan for you." I've been praying and praying and praying about what his plan is for me. Asking for help in letting myself just let go and live. I know he will provide everything I need. I know he has a plan for me, I know he will guide me and teach me along the way. I have got to let loose of the reins and hand them back to him.
It's funny to me that the second I finally got the message that I am not in control, I get 100 signs that things are ok, things will work out, I am not alone. I've gotten two just today. I was reading some blogs of friends of mine and one posted the lyrics of a song that illustrate perfectly how I've been feeling. (Thanks Jordan for posting this).
I pray that you will "Slow me down, show me around
I wanna see the world that I've been without
I am here and now the future is out of my hands
I trust in you and how you move
I won't forget that patience is a virtue
You're teaching me to hang on tight
Cause I don't know how the story ends
But I'll be alright cause you own it
And I don't know where where the highway bends
But I'm doing just fine
Cause you're in control
Even when I don't know
Where my life's gonna go
You're keeping me guessing.
I also read another friends blog who gave me so much encouragement, because even through her sadness, anger, and unknown future she is holding strong to God. She is trusting him to show her the way and she knows that she has so much ahead of her, even though it may be different that what she originally thought. I am not alone in wondering what is ahead, but now I know that it's ok to wonder, just don't expect and plan on my own.
I am excited for what is to come. I am excited to grow and change and become the woman I am meant to be. Today is a new day, and today is another step in the right direction. Thankfully, I have a great family, supporting boyfriend, and amazing friends who are always there for me and will help me through the journey. (Just wish most of these people didn't live in other states!)
Why is it that it takes something bad or something scary to make you sit back and think "What am I doing?" "Why is it that sometimes I forget that I need to Let Go and Let God?" "Why do I need reminders to be patient, when I am so good at reminding others to do just that?" This weekend allowed me to do some serious soul searching. Something I've tried to do and never really completed. (Yes I know this will never be complete, but instead of getting too far in, I let myself get distracted and ignore the issues).
As most all of you know, I am quick to speak. I can be a bit forward, and tend to tell it like it is. There are very few times that I'm actually intending to be mean to someone (thank goodness for this), but I understand that sometimes I am misinterpreted. While I embrace portions of my "quick tongue" I do not love it all. I do not love that people take things that I say the wrong way, I don't like that I have hurt people by the things I've said, I don't like that often times I say things that some may find shocking or unneccessary. And what most annoying, is it is by no fault but my own. I'm working on myself. I'm allowing God to work through me. I am trying to figure out what made me the way I am, and what I can do to tone it down.
I am impatient. I am quick to talk about things that don't need to be talked about, just so I can know. I like to jump the gun on things. I like to know what is coming and what my life will bring. Oh man oh man, did God put the quick breaks on me. I can just imagine him chuckling to himself saying "Slow down Erin, for I have a plan for you." I've been praying and praying and praying about what his plan is for me. Asking for help in letting myself just let go and live. I know he will provide everything I need. I know he has a plan for me, I know he will guide me and teach me along the way. I have got to let loose of the reins and hand them back to him.
It's funny to me that the second I finally got the message that I am not in control, I get 100 signs that things are ok, things will work out, I am not alone. I've gotten two just today. I was reading some blogs of friends of mine and one posted the lyrics of a song that illustrate perfectly how I've been feeling. (Thanks Jordan for posting this).
I pray that you will "Slow me down, show me around
I wanna see the world that I've been without
I am here and now the future is out of my hands
I trust in you and how you move
I won't forget that patience is a virtue
You're teaching me to hang on tight
Cause I don't know how the story ends
But I'll be alright cause you own it
And I don't know where where the highway bends
But I'm doing just fine
Cause you're in control
Even when I don't know
Where my life's gonna go
You're keeping me guessing.
I also read another friends blog who gave me so much encouragement, because even through her sadness, anger, and unknown future she is holding strong to God. She is trusting him to show her the way and she knows that she has so much ahead of her, even though it may be different that what she originally thought. I am not alone in wondering what is ahead, but now I know that it's ok to wonder, just don't expect and plan on my own.
I am excited for what is to come. I am excited to grow and change and become the woman I am meant to be. Today is a new day, and today is another step in the right direction. Thankfully, I have a great family, supporting boyfriend, and amazing friends who are always there for me and will help me through the journey. (Just wish most of these people didn't live in other states!)
Friday, April 9, 2010
Susan G Komen Breast Cancer Run
I just signed up to run in the 20th Annual Race for the Cure being held in Atlanta. Now I have some serious work to do. I am not the best runner, so hopefully I will be good to run the entire 5K. That's my goal at least.
I'm glad to be doing this with some people from work. We have joined one of our clients teams. Should be an fun and memorable day for us all.
I'm shocked I havent done a run supporting breast cancer research before considering it is a disease that is a part of my family. I'm running for my grandmother. She fought and beat breast cancer. If she can do that, the least I can do is help to raise money and run the entire 5K.
I'll keep you posted on my progress.
To join our team or contribute to my efforts to raise money for the cause please use the links below.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Easter Weekend
I am trying to stick to at least one blog a week and not go on another 4 month hiatus. Hopefully, I can stick to my plan, I guess we will see.
Last weekend I spent the weekend in Auburn for Easter. The one good thing about Easter (and holidays like it) is that my best friend Amanda comes into town too! I definetely dont see her enough and neither of us have enough time to really visit as much as we would like. A 5 hour drive is something you need to prepare in advance for. Maybe we should meet at home a little more often...
Anyways. I got home around 6 or so and headed our with my Mom to run some errands and have dinner with my sister Sarah. Panera, yum! (Sidenote: At one point or another I refused to eat panera because I didn't like it, I think I was crazy back then). Mom pointed out that Panera now has calorie counts next to their sandwiches and soups to give you a better idea of the calories you are eating. I told my mom I was attempting to get in swimsuit shape (ha) and was being more careful with what I was eating. This specific incident was more of an annoyance to me that a blessing. I mean who wants to know that their favorite thing on the menu is actually A LOT more calories than they thought! Not me, thats for sure. I decided I could cheat this one time and got what I wanted and not what my diet would have liked :)!
After dinner I went and met up with Amanda and her boyfriend (he came with her to Auburn for Easter). What an amazing couple they are. They are precious and I can tell how much he loves her. I've always wanted the best for her and have tried to set her up with sooo many guys that I thought would be good for her (just ask her, I'm sure she will agree). I never could have asked for anything better than her current relationship though. Oh I'm so happy that she is happy! I mean that is all I wanted afterall!
We made it out downtown in Auburn. We are getting a bit old for this scene I think. I officially only knew 1 other person at the bar (which rarely happens). I guess everyone I knew or know is either out of Auburn by now, or arent going to the bars as often. I guess a lot of it had to do with Easter, but I got a bit of this feeling the last time I was in town. Oh well, I guess I have just grown up a bit. Needless to say, we were home pretty early Friday night.
Saturday, I woke up early to go Mother of the Groom dress shopping with my Mom. I cannot believe my brother is getting married in like 9 weeks! 9 weeks!! His fiance has been around our family for years now, so she's already basically part of the family, but now it will be official. I will have a married sibling. Weird, I feel like we were jumping on the trampoline and playing spotlight at night just yesterday. We are growing up too fast!
Easter was great. Lunch was amazing. All the kids (except Daniel) and grand dogs (except Ellie) came over. We ate and laughed and enjoyed begin together. I love spending time with them! I've caught myself in recent years being more consumed with the planning, presents, and materialistic thigs associated with holidays and I'm embarassed by it. While all the little traditional things about Easter (and Christmas) are fun, it's too easy to lose site of the real reason for the celebration. I have got to do a better job of dedicating the day to Christ and not to the visiting bunny.
I hope your Easter was as pleasant as mine and that you all took a moment to remember Christ is Risen!
Last weekend I spent the weekend in Auburn for Easter. The one good thing about Easter (and holidays like it) is that my best friend Amanda comes into town too! I definetely dont see her enough and neither of us have enough time to really visit as much as we would like. A 5 hour drive is something you need to prepare in advance for. Maybe we should meet at home a little more often...
Anyways. I got home around 6 or so and headed our with my Mom to run some errands and have dinner with my sister Sarah. Panera, yum! (Sidenote: At one point or another I refused to eat panera because I didn't like it, I think I was crazy back then). Mom pointed out that Panera now has calorie counts next to their sandwiches and soups to give you a better idea of the calories you are eating. I told my mom I was attempting to get in swimsuit shape (ha) and was being more careful with what I was eating. This specific incident was more of an annoyance to me that a blessing. I mean who wants to know that their favorite thing on the menu is actually A LOT more calories than they thought! Not me, thats for sure. I decided I could cheat this one time and got what I wanted and not what my diet would have liked :)!
After dinner I went and met up with Amanda and her boyfriend (he came with her to Auburn for Easter). What an amazing couple they are. They are precious and I can tell how much he loves her. I've always wanted the best for her and have tried to set her up with sooo many guys that I thought would be good for her (just ask her, I'm sure she will agree). I never could have asked for anything better than her current relationship though. Oh I'm so happy that she is happy! I mean that is all I wanted afterall!
We made it out downtown in Auburn. We are getting a bit old for this scene I think. I officially only knew 1 other person at the bar (which rarely happens). I guess everyone I knew or know is either out of Auburn by now, or arent going to the bars as often. I guess a lot of it had to do with Easter, but I got a bit of this feeling the last time I was in town. Oh well, I guess I have just grown up a bit. Needless to say, we were home pretty early Friday night.
Saturday, I woke up early to go Mother of the Groom dress shopping with my Mom. I cannot believe my brother is getting married in like 9 weeks! 9 weeks!! His fiance has been around our family for years now, so she's already basically part of the family, but now it will be official. I will have a married sibling. Weird, I feel like we were jumping on the trampoline and playing spotlight at night just yesterday. We are growing up too fast!
Easter was great. Lunch was amazing. All the kids (except Daniel) and grand dogs (except Ellie) came over. We ate and laughed and enjoyed begin together. I love spending time with them! I've caught myself in recent years being more consumed with the planning, presents, and materialistic thigs associated with holidays and I'm embarassed by it. While all the little traditional things about Easter (and Christmas) are fun, it's too easy to lose site of the real reason for the celebration. I have got to do a better job of dedicating the day to Christ and not to the visiting bunny.
I hope your Easter was as pleasant as mine and that you all took a moment to remember Christ is Risen!
Monday, March 8, 2010
Summary of life in the past 4 months
Well I can honestly say after my last post I did not think that it would be 3 (well 4 now) months before my next post. So much for being a good blogger I guess. It was brought to my attention that I am not keeping this thing updated and now I am finally getting to it.
Lets start with December... I was offered a new position at my job! What an amazing new challenge and exciting step in my life as a real worlder! I had to find a repalcement in pretty much 2 weeks since Christmas was coming up and no one would be in town, so I was very busy going through a thousand (literally) resumes. I found the perfect "new me" and she has been a blessing to work with and become a good friend too!
Christmas came and went too fast. Jonathan James and I had such a great Christmas together and he did an amazing job with my gift! I'm just sad we spent Christmas apart, but I guess our families have some priority :)
Christmas in Auburn was fantastic and I was so excited to see some of my "Auburn" friends and best friends! It's always a blessing to get back together with the people who were a huge part of making me the person I am today.
January: I started my new position at IM. I'm now officially an Implementation Account Manager. I am responsible for managing new and existing accounts, building databases, and training clients on the program. I had so much to learn (and still have plenty more to learn) but I am really enjoying it and am happy where I am now.
Of course January also brought in New Years. Jonathan and I definetely weren't jumping to plan out our night. I swear people have made a huge deal about that holiday and it isnt even that big of a deal. Needless to say, most every event was overpriced and not worth our time or money. We did end up having an amazing (well half of it) night. My sister and her boyfriend Trevor came to town and stayed with me bringing along their (his) sweet puppy Captain. Watson (my roommates dog) had so much fun with him and Maggie enjoyed the "time-off" from entertaining Watson.
Jonathan James and I decided we would finally make good on our date that didn't go so well a few months back (we hit traffic and couldn't find the restaurant making our reservation impossible to make). We went to this fun lil soul kitchen type place called "Sweet Auburn." He picked it knowing I would absolutely LOVE the name, he was right. The food was pretty good, the atmosphere was fun and the company was the best :). After dinner we decided to go to Peachtree Tavern for the rest of the night. It was ok. I'm not a fan of cigarette smoke and this place was completely smoke filled. At one point, I felt like I couldn't breathe and we went outside. We stayed until about 12:02, just enough time to bring in the new year and kiss then head out.
I also went to Lindsay Shirley's (now Shiver) bachelorette party in January. What a great time. It was so nice to have a weekend away with the girls and be at the beach (even though it was a little cold).
February came and went, and I miss it. February encompasses two of my most favorite days of the year, Valentine's Day and my birthday! This year it was the best yet. Man I am so lucky to have such an amazing and caring man in my life. Our Valentine's was nothing short of perfect. We spent the day together, watched a little hockey (a new favorite sport of mine, I must admit), and saw Howie Day!
He even was in on a deal with my dad. Dad has given my sister and I a single Valentine's rose for as long as I can rememer. He always puts a card with it that reads "From the Man who Loved you first." This year is the first year I was away from home for Valentine's Day and for weeks poor Jonathan has heard me worry about whether or not my Daddy would be doing one of my favorite family traditions. Little did I know, he was in on the plan the whole time and he brought my rose to me on Valentine's Day! Oh I love those two men.
My birthday was great too. Friday Birthday are the best. The day started with lunch with my coworkers. They are such a great group and I am blessed to get to spend 40 hours a week (at least!) with them! I also had some friends come in town to celebrate with me too. Elizabeth and Caleb came to visit. (I miss these two more than anything!) My sister and her bf brought my great great friend Parker too! I was so blessed to have so many of the people I care about want to spend my birthday with me. We went to dinner ( a lot of my ATl friends came to celebrate too) at Verde, my favorite place and headed out in Buckhead for the rest of the night.
I also went on my first ski trip late February. I'm not the best skier ( I wish I had the mindset of a fearless little kid still). We went to NC and skied Beach and Sugar Mountains. It was such a great trip, and a much needed break. We had great snow too!
March brought the wedding of Lindsay and Robert. The whole weekend was amazing. They did such a great job with everything. I cannot wait to see what the Lord will do in the lives of Robert and Lindsay.
Last week Jonathan and I went to New Jersey/New York for a few days. His grandmothers 80th birthday was last week so her party was on Saturday. While I was the only nonfamily member at this party, they made me feel so welcome. I loved every minute of it. When we went into the city it rained... :(... but we made the best of it. Last time I was in NYC I didnt get a chance to see Central Park so we walked around Central Park and Times Square, just enjoying the city and spending time with eachother.
This blog is getting so long! So Sorry! (Just a note: I started this blog March 8, I'm just now getting to finishing it (April 2). Ha. I'll update you on my Easter weekend trip to Auburn soon! I think I've learned my lesson in waiting so long to blog!
Lets start with December... I was offered a new position at my job! What an amazing new challenge and exciting step in my life as a real worlder! I had to find a repalcement in pretty much 2 weeks since Christmas was coming up and no one would be in town, so I was very busy going through a thousand (literally) resumes. I found the perfect "new me" and she has been a blessing to work with and become a good friend too!
Christmas came and went too fast. Jonathan James and I had such a great Christmas together and he did an amazing job with my gift! I'm just sad we spent Christmas apart, but I guess our families have some priority :)
Christmas in Auburn was fantastic and I was so excited to see some of my "Auburn" friends and best friends! It's always a blessing to get back together with the people who were a huge part of making me the person I am today.
January: I started my new position at IM. I'm now officially an Implementation Account Manager. I am responsible for managing new and existing accounts, building databases, and training clients on the program. I had so much to learn (and still have plenty more to learn) but I am really enjoying it and am happy where I am now.
Of course January also brought in New Years. Jonathan and I definetely weren't jumping to plan out our night. I swear people have made a huge deal about that holiday and it isnt even that big of a deal. Needless to say, most every event was overpriced and not worth our time or money. We did end up having an amazing (well half of it) night. My sister and her boyfriend Trevor came to town and stayed with me bringing along their (his) sweet puppy Captain. Watson (my roommates dog) had so much fun with him and Maggie enjoyed the "time-off" from entertaining Watson.
Jonathan James and I decided we would finally make good on our date that didn't go so well a few months back (we hit traffic and couldn't find the restaurant making our reservation impossible to make). We went to this fun lil soul kitchen type place called "Sweet Auburn." He picked it knowing I would absolutely LOVE the name, he was right. The food was pretty good, the atmosphere was fun and the company was the best :). After dinner we decided to go to Peachtree Tavern for the rest of the night. It was ok. I'm not a fan of cigarette smoke and this place was completely smoke filled. At one point, I felt like I couldn't breathe and we went outside. We stayed until about 12:02, just enough time to bring in the new year and kiss then head out.
I also went to Lindsay Shirley's (now Shiver) bachelorette party in January. What a great time. It was so nice to have a weekend away with the girls and be at the beach (even though it was a little cold).
February came and went, and I miss it. February encompasses two of my most favorite days of the year, Valentine's Day and my birthday! This year it was the best yet. Man I am so lucky to have such an amazing and caring man in my life. Our Valentine's was nothing short of perfect. We spent the day together, watched a little hockey (a new favorite sport of mine, I must admit), and saw Howie Day!
He even was in on a deal with my dad. Dad has given my sister and I a single Valentine's rose for as long as I can rememer. He always puts a card with it that reads "From the Man who Loved you first." This year is the first year I was away from home for Valentine's Day and for weeks poor Jonathan has heard me worry about whether or not my Daddy would be doing one of my favorite family traditions. Little did I know, he was in on the plan the whole time and he brought my rose to me on Valentine's Day! Oh I love those two men.
My birthday was great too. Friday Birthday are the best. The day started with lunch with my coworkers. They are such a great group and I am blessed to get to spend 40 hours a week (at least!) with them! I also had some friends come in town to celebrate with me too. Elizabeth and Caleb came to visit. (I miss these two more than anything!) My sister and her bf brought my great great friend Parker too! I was so blessed to have so many of the people I care about want to spend my birthday with me. We went to dinner ( a lot of my ATl friends came to celebrate too) at Verde, my favorite place and headed out in Buckhead for the rest of the night.
I also went on my first ski trip late February. I'm not the best skier ( I wish I had the mindset of a fearless little kid still). We went to NC and skied Beach and Sugar Mountains. It was such a great trip, and a much needed break. We had great snow too!
March brought the wedding of Lindsay and Robert. The whole weekend was amazing. They did such a great job with everything. I cannot wait to see what the Lord will do in the lives of Robert and Lindsay.
Last week Jonathan and I went to New Jersey/New York for a few days. His grandmothers 80th birthday was last week so her party was on Saturday. While I was the only nonfamily member at this party, they made me feel so welcome. I loved every minute of it. When we went into the city it rained... :(... but we made the best of it. Last time I was in NYC I didnt get a chance to see Central Park so we walked around Central Park and Times Square, just enjoying the city and spending time with eachother.
This blog is getting so long! So Sorry! (Just a note: I started this blog March 8, I'm just now getting to finishing it (April 2). Ha. I'll update you on my Easter weekend trip to Auburn soon! I think I've learned my lesson in waiting so long to blog!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)