'You don't know me'

Recently I have had varying comments on my capabilities of a teacher... whether it be that I was too nice... that I was too small or anything of that nature. It greatly upset me that so many people felt that I was unable to control a classroom and lead a group of students.

However, I am here to tell you that size, stature, nor level of anger matter in a classroom. I personally believe that I can be nice to those around me, yet still be able to have control and be in charge of a classroom. Mean people make mean teachers... you don't want your child's teacher just being rude.. You want your child to learn.

I have only lived here for two years, and frankly I just have to say the people don't know me well enough to judge my abilities as a teacher. My life before this was deeply rooted in teaching, and even though now I have been in an office for two years, I don't think I have completely lost sight of my goal.

People are so judgemental, and may even judge without the facts. I am sad to leave my job, but excited for what lies ahead. May each of your eyes be opened, and may your hearts be softened to those around you... rudeness or what you feel is blatant 'honesty' is never necessary.

Answered Prayers!!!

God's ways are not our ways... and His timing, is definitely not ours. And sometimes, He brings you through a trial to learn something before He so richly blesses you.

As I have mentioned before... when deciding to come to Alabama for school, Hunter was offered, and promised a contract with ROTC as well as a scholarship for school. Through many heart wrenching moments... All those hopes were quickly washed away and shot down. He got here, started school, and there was nothing for him.

Well, here we are a little more than $20,000 out of pocket... broke as can be..still hoping a miracle will happen. I cried out to God this past weekend, after looking at gas prices yet again... and He has heard my cry!!

Yesterday, Hunter was called to the side, and told a scholarship (and contract) was waiting for him! Today, he spoke with another man, and after some paperwork... it is true. He was given a 'verbal confirmation' and was told all they have to do now is wait on the paperwork.

PRAISE GOD!!! He knows our deepest desires, and our biggest needs. Hunter was desperately in need of this.. for stress relief, among other things!

To God be the glory for this AMAZING blessing!!

National Champions!

As the Tide celebrates their 14th National Championship, I proudly say ROLL TIDE! It has been a long and hard fought battle; and I am proud of my team. They worked hard this year. And I am so excited!! I am fortunate enough to say that I am a part of the graduating class that contains the 'winningest' football team in school history! And with a legacy like Bama... just that concept is astounding!

ROLL TIDE!!

A stroke of bad luck

Last week was, in a word... rough. The days went slowly and due to a certain situation, things at work were very tense, and at times unbearable.

I hate to say I caught myself shedding tears at my desk, more than once.

Tuesday night I worked tirelessly to get my final homework set of the semester finished. I pushed myself long and hard and only took a break to make dinner and watch the airing of Rudolph. There was one problem I just had no clue where to begin... and this deeply troubled me.

If you know me, you know I do not believe in leaving an answer blank... so I did my best, researched a bit and put down what I could.. with little to no confidence in my answer. I arrived in class on Wednesday only to find out our homework assignment had been postponed and that the professor would be going over the one problem I didn't understand that day in class. What a relief!  (or so I thought).

With my schedule this semester it works in my favor to have homework due on Wednesday, as I spend Thursday nights in group meetings for my other classes and then help Hunter with his homework. This is a very set schedule that I live by daily, and if something changes, it is hard to recover... however, by the grace of God, I somehow do.

So, after staying up till midnight working on group projects and helping Hunter with his work, I was too incoherent to do my homework. I set my alarm for 3am, after a little sleep I could get up and focus just enough to get it done. I work up around 4:15am... what happened to that alarm clock? The world may never know.

I got up and got ready for work and headed out, thankfully I was able to finish my homework before class started, right in time to turn it in.

In the midst of all this, Friday morning my car nearly stalled out in an intersection on my way to work. What a nightmare. I got scared that my car would die again, so I turned off my radio and defroster. Thankfully the ice from my windshield was nearly gone.

I could tell my car wasn't running right. The gears weren't changing and I no longer had headlights. Yes, pitch black 5:45am, and I have no headlights. I literally coasted into work this morning... not sure really what was wrong with my car.

I spoke with some of my guys and described what had happened.. We prayed for a bad battery, but most likely it was my alternator. I finally called Hunter and asked him to pick me up and take me to my class. As my luck would have it, right when it was time to leave for class, the train stops dead in the middle of the tracks.. the train tracks separate my part of town from the University. Thankfully Hunter knows town well enough he was able to get around but, he was a little ill about it.

I made it to class on time, and turned in my homework. And, at 4pm I left work to get my car checked. To make a long story short, I need a new alternator, and through my guys at work, and Hunter's family... I took it to a repair place that would keep it over the weekend and get started Monday.

It is going to be very expensive... and this just added more stress to my plate. Remember this post? As I talked to my mom about the finances of it all and the stress of finding a place, I was just glad that I had somewhere to take it. I know God will provide, and all things will work out.

To top off my weekend, this happened:

And here I was thinking I would put off buying new glasses in order to offset spending even more money... Ahh, what a joyful time of year this is.. however, it is the most expensive time of the year too.. without all my misfortune.

Hunter has been at drill all weekend, so I was unable to use him as my ride.. but thankfully friends from church have been picking me up and taking me to where I need to go. Otherwise.. I am just sitting at home cleaning... but Hey, the apartment needed it.

Hope your weeks are going better than mine! :)

Sunday Dinner

When I went grocery shopping last week, my grocery store had a few select meats on sale.

I was able to grab a beautiful bottom round roast with which to make my mom's roast and potatoes. I just love this meal, and it brings all the comforts of home to life. Usually my mom adds carrots to hers, but considering I don't eat much carrots, I didn't want to buy a pack, just to have them spoil.

This meal is made in the crock pot... making a super easy, fix and forget meal. Even better, my mom brought me a crock pot liner bag this weekend to test out on this meal! It made clean up a breeze, and I will be buying more!

For dinner:
Put roast in crock pot in the morning. I put my roast on just before I left for church. To keep it from drying out I added half of a cup of water, just in case. Here you can add anything you like, such as cream of mushroom soup.

That afternoon before going back to church I chopped up potatoes into about one inch pieces, and added them to the crock pot. Your potatoes take about two hours to cook.

So.. I forgot to take a completed meal picture... Sorry!!


Roast: cook in crock pot on low for about 8-10 hours, add potatoes 2 hours before desired meal time. ENJOY!

The crock pot bag made clean up so easy! After I put away the left overs and let the crock pot cool, I pulled the bag out. My crock pot was spotless, however I did wash it before putting it up... OCD, much?

Professional

When most students involved in band graduate high school they stop playing. Few of us continue on as collegiate musicians. As a student who majored in a discipline other than music, I thought once I graduated college I would rarely play my instrument again.

Just a few weeks ago, I was given the opportunity of a life time. My heart longs for music. As and SAI, I love music, value and cherish it. And the music minister at my church asked me to play a special for a conference our church was holding. I was so nervous, as I have a HUGE performance anxiety. But I was also excited. I thought it would be just a one time thing, but about a month ago, our music minister asked me to play again! My heart leaped for joy! I thought, 'maybe I did a good job after all'!

And so it began. That night, after church, my music minister asked if I would be willing to play in the praise team, every Sunday. I joyfully agreed, and two weeks ago was my first full time Sunday. Never did I think I would need a flute stand, but last week I bought one.. It makes me feel like a professional. A musician again. It brings unspeakable joy to my soul by playing praises to my God and King.

It was very comical, even my music minister had no idea flutes could have stands, and they were all amazed when I showed up yesterday to church with my newly purchased stand.

Again, it makes me feel professional. And I have a great time playing in the praise band at my church! To God be the glory for his infinite blessings!!

Focus

It has been titled the 'game of the century' and I am so excited to live, work and play in the town where heaven is, Tuscaloosa. ROLL TIDE!

No where else have a lived or anywhere I have heard of that your teams call sign is a greeting, a condolence and 'the right answer to any question.' I will never forget the conversation, 'Don't know what to say? The appropriate answer is ALWAYS 'Roll Tide'.'

#1 LSU vs #2 Alabama. Wow, what a concept. It is so hard to stay focused and not thing of the million things I have to get done before tomorrow, as well as the million things I have to do tomorrow.

Since Hunter was at basic all summer, he wasn't able to purchase student tickets this football season. However, he has been able to go to every game so far through ROTC or the student ticket donation system. We don't have high hopes for such a popular game... but we will see.

My parents and Aunt and Uncle are coming up for the game and I am so excited to see them! It will be my Aunt's first college football game she has ever attended.... I have to say, she picked a good one.

So here's to a crazy, chaotic, fun filled weekend! ROLL TIDE!

I just want to GRADUATE, (again)!

Wow... this week has been a whirlwind.

My advisor here makes me sick, like... when I have to meet with him I have a nervous break down and feel the need to throw up.... sick. He is rude, and never really helpful.

When I went for my final semester of advising I was a NERVOUS WRECK, to say the least. But, I got the classes I wanted, and he actually filled out my graduation paperwork with me. This visit was not without another very uncomfortable conversation about my money and marriage, or lack there of. But, I was happy with my classes, so I left with a smile. It may have been I was just glad to get out of there... Only time would tell.

This was about a month ago. Here I am this week, trying to register for classes and lo and behold... one of the classes I had been advised to take, was no longer being offered. No notice, no warning. Just when I searched for the class to register, it did not exist.

After a whirlwind of emails, to which my advisor never responded, another teacher told me I would have to wait until the summer to take the course and graduate then. I thought, this can't be happening... I have worked so hard... done so much... I emailed a few other people, asking what my options were. I was desparate for answers.

Finally on Wednesday I was emailed with an alternate course to take, after emailing my advisor again, and copying the chair to the email. I thought I was safe! However, when I tried to register for the course, it said I didn't have the prerequisites.

I was frantic. I emailed the professor and after discussing the prerequisites with her, I had more than enough. The prerequisite was statistics... Um, hello? Math major calling!

Again, I thought I was safe. She told me to expect an email from her Office Associate when it was clear for me to register. Upon receipt of the email, she had opened a spot in the wrong class for me. Again, my heart sank.

After a long discussion and a friendly bond created from one office associate to another, the mistake was corrected and yesterday, I finally finished registering for what will be my last semester as a math major! Thankfully, I emailed the graduate school and none of my already processed paperwork has to be redone.. another burden off of my shoulders.

Praise the Lord for His infinite blessings! His hand was definitely all over this situation! Even though it was a bumpy ride, I am going to make it out with my Masters degree!

I honestly can't wait to get out of this math department. It is the source of all my woes during the past two years, mainly due to my poor advisor. I have put in an application for my PhD in Higher Education Administration, and I am still waiting on the results from that and whether I am accepted or not. We shall soon see.. I should get my letter sometime around February 2012. And I look forward to seeing what God has in store. Regardless, beginning in January, I will be putting applications in to schools all over the state. The journey may take a big jump, again. And I can't wait to see what happens.

Oh, Happy day!

Lately, I have been in a slump. I am sick, tired, worn out and exhausted. These feelings have become a part of my every day life, and I am slowly learning to cope with them.

The past few weeks however, I have let the rude comments and remarks of others get the best of me. My main love language is 'Words of Affirmation' and I take what people say and do to heart. I know I shouldn't, and that I don't need to worry about things like that... and that is something I work on daily.

Last week, I just couldn't take it any longer, I took off work after lunch and made the journey home.  People had been rude, my student worker hadn't done his job, and I was stressed with school, starting to get sick and OH so tired.

Side note: My student worker never does his job, this is not an uncommon occurrence. Unfortunately on top of his usual laziness, last week, he neglected to do a weekly report that he has been doing for the past two years. Nothing out of the ordinary people, no special demands. No extras. So, at 11am as I was working to get everything I needed to do for the rest of the day finished, my boss asked about the report. I frantically finished a seven page report in one hour. It wasn't the fact that I had to work frantically to get it finished, it was the fact that this kid has all week to accomplish this.. and come Friday he hadn't even started. Anyways....

So, after a very stressful morning, Hunter and I began the journey to my hometown. Friday night we celebrated my high school homecoming. ZC beat NB for the first time in 5 years... and we won homecoming! It was definitely different being back there... but it was good to see some old faces.

Saturday we had a lazy morning with my family and traveled to the Troy game and watched my sister work with the band. My dad was loading hay for a man in Texas and I took the opportunity to show Hunter around the property. We watched my dad load hay, and I took him through some of the fields. That city boy was amazed! He had a great time watching the cows and being in the great outdoors. The Troy game was an interesting one. Things are different and it is weird just sitting and trying to watch a game, as opposed to being in the band. We left during the third quarter to watch the Alabama/Florida game and were very happy to celebrate wins for both of my schools! Go TROY and ROLL TIDE ROLL!

Sunday, was an adventure in itself. Hunter came to church with me... mind you, Hunter is a big city, mega-church kind of guy. So it was interesting bringing him to my down home country church! But, I think he enjoyed it. :) We had lunch with the family and then traveled back to Tuscaloosa.

I cleaned up, unpacked and worked on homework until late into the night. Hunter and I got into our first fight of our relationship.. and it was all over a miscommunication! HAHA! He was so sweet... as I was angrily unpacking he walked up behind me turned me around and just hugged me. (JUST like in the movies!) I cried I was so angry, and because I was so happy to have him there, and to know that one little fight wasn't going to ruin us. He is truly a blessing.

So here we are... back to the daily grind. I hope you each have a wonderful week, filled with many blessings!

Unrealistic Fears

I have an unrealistic fear of bugs.. ESPECIALLY roaches.

This morning, I woke up at my usual time (4:30am) and went into the bathroom... I started the water for the shower, and was washing my hands when I noticed something moving. Mind you, I just woke up... I have no contacts in, no glasses on... So if I can see something... it is BIG.

I was freaked, so I ran out of the bathroom, grabbed my glasses and went back in for a look. Sure enough, it was a roach. So I go to the kitchen and grab the roach spray... I was freaking out. I tried spraying the roach, but it just kept running... It ran behind my hand towel and I thought, here is my chance. I grab a shoe, and slam it full force flat on the towel, trying to cover as much as possible to maximize me actually squishing the roach. To my demise, out the roach ran... AHHH!

When I say I have an unrealistic fear, I mean... my mom has recommended I get counseling for how afraid I am. However, I am not doing that... because I know they would just put me in a room with a bug and make me deal. NO WAY!

So, I am trying to be as quiet as possible not to wake my roommates at such an unreasonable hour. But after my two attempts to kill the roach... I just can't take it anymore. I am completely freaking, being hysterical and sweating.. like, sick nasty, rolling down your back you have sweat so much, sweating.

I get my phone and call Hunter... and after explaining what is going on, he comes to my apartment, at 4:45am to kill the roach. Praise the Lord for him! He then cleaned out my bathroom so that I knew it was safe to take a shower, and I then got ready for work.

Praise the Lord for him! Today, I am so thankful. I don't know what I would have done without him being able to come help. Yeah, I know it is sad.. but there are just a few things that I can't handle. Roaches being #1 on my list.

Do you have something you have an unrealistic fear of? How do you deal with bugs when you are home alone?

Cell Phones

Have any of your every changed your cell phone number, or lost all of you contacts in your phone?

When I moved to Tuscaloosa my poor cell service became significantly worse. Yeah, that's right... it went from bad, to worse.

Over the course of the last year and a half mom and I had been talking about me moving plans and getting my own phone line, outside of our family plan. It was a big jump, and would add a bill to my monthly financial costs. I researched and calculated and researched some more...

In the end, there was an overwhelming need for me to have a phone to communicate with my family, especially if there was an emergency.

So, I went and talked to a sales representative and then later that week, bought a phone, a plan and signed a contract. Overall, it has been a great decision. I am proud to boast I am one of the few people that can actually use my phone in Bryant Denny. ;) HAHA!

The night after I got my phone, I sent a mass text message to all my contacts, telling them my new number and asking them to text me their names... you know, the usual 'help-me-fill-my-contacts-list' message.

Here comes the awkward part. My mom took my old phone, and it is now hers. I included that in the message, but of course, not all people responded or payed attention. No biggie, just hilarious and awkward. Every now and then my mom will forward me a text... and of course, I have no idea who it is.. Then there is the awkward time when I text someone, and they don't respond, because they probably have no idea who I am.

In the end it is quite funny... and I have most of the numbers I need in my phone and a list of my old numbers typed up at my desk so that I can research the anonymous texts I receive. I always feel bad replying, 'I am sorry, I don't have your number saved... who is this?' I only have a few numbers memorized, and I wish I had more....

Do you still memorize people's phone numbers? Does it bother you to awkwardly reply... I have no idea who you are?

May your day be filled with many blessings from above.

Game day

So, I am a fan of Alabama football, and have been, all my life. I believe that tried and true fans only exist in those who have experienced a true game day... the drive of the crowds on the quad, and the atmosphere of Bryant Denny looming over you.... it is majestic.

My roommates sister sent us some Sally Hansen nail strips from California, because the houndstooth print is so hard to find here in Tuscaloosa. So, since I wanted to procrastinate from homework, I decided to do my nails for the game.

Before I got started I watched this tutorial.

I laid out all the things I would need and opened all the packages.. I also read each direction. Yeah, I am a loser. I must say these were a lot easier than I expected. I was terrified it would be a one chance to place the nail and boom... you are destroyed. But I was actually able to pull up and replace the pattern if I didn't like where it landed the first time. :) YAY!

My only problem was having to use a nail file and cuticle stick... both of those things really bother me... Again, I know I am a loser... so I had a little trouble with that. If you have no problems using a nail file and cuticle stick GO FOR IT!

I put a clear coat over the top because I felt they needed it to 'seal' properly and not just peel right off of my nails. So, overall this was simple and fun... and made for a great game day look.

I have heard these are pretty expensive, and I am so thankful that Gabby's sister bought them for us! I had fun trying them. Unfortunately, I washed dishes and cleaned after I put these on.. I don't know if that contributed to the few mess ups I now have or not.. but the box says they last up to ten days.

I look forward to starting painting my nails more often. I have found many blogs and many cute tutorials. After years of band and sports I have never really painted my nails, and was never allowed to. I have painted my toes and tried various designs on them before, including an infamous confederate flag and American flag, when I was in high school. HAHA! So, here goes another new exploration, learning to paint my nails (and make it look good!).

These lovely Toms completed my houndstooth ensemble. I love the purpose of Toms, and when I saw these I just couldn't get them out of my mind. GREAT game day shoes!


ROLL TIDE!

ROLL TIDE!

Alabama's home opener was this past Saturday. I had a great time spending the night with Heather and going to the game with some friends from church. This was mine and Hunter's first football game together. ROLL TIDE ROLL!

After the first quarter I offered to go to the concession stand with my friend. To make a long story short, she was very sick, almost passed out and we ended up spending the rest of the game sitting against the wall of the stadium and in the EMS room.

Thankfully after some medical attention she felt much better... just got a little too hot. We then went to the quad at the end of the 4th quarter and then back to her place and continued to watch the rest of the SEC games on TV that night. I had a wonderful Saturday spent with great friends!

Feelings

After being back at work this week and finishing school things have just been, well crazy... here are a few things I am feeling...

1. I feel like I am having a heart attack, 100% of the time... my chest is tight, my body is sore...
2. My mind races, devastation litters my thoughts...
3. Every day life.... for some people this now can't happen. I am so thankful each morning that I wake up, take a shower and get ready... as well as each night that I go to bed... go to work... breathe... I can't believe it...
4. Driving, buying groceries... Tuscaloosa has changed, all around me. There is metal and debris everywhere... it will take months for this place to get cleaned up, and even longer to rebuild.
5. I can't sleep... I can't rest... I don't know what I would do without my faith in God. Without Him... I couldn't make it through this.. I can't imagine devastated families going through this without my Lord.
6. Each day I find out about a new friend who lost everything... the heartbreak renews itself over and over again.
7. I'm guilty, guilty using the blessings that I have.. know that others have nothing
8. I'm happy, happy that I have a beautiful wedding to be a part of this weekend. Just a few days of normalcy. Man.. won't that be nice?

Praise God from whom all blessing flow. Praise Him all creatures here below. Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. I am so thankful; for my life, for my friends, for my family. I am thankful for every one's prayers and support. Tuscaloosa loves you all! Thank you for showing the Lord's light among men!

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Finished!

I can't believe it! I am finished with my first YEAR of graduate school.

It was so much harder than I thought. Working a full time job and going to school isn't the cake walk that I planned it to be... but it is great! There were times when I didn't think I would make it through... But the Lord is merciful and gracious, and I have!!

After the storm, the University of Alabama terminated the semester as of April 27. The end of classes, finals and even graduation have been cancelled. The Spring graduates will now be attending the Summer graduation. Grades were to be posted as of May 10th, as is. If you didn't like your grade, you could request to take your final. Wow, what a roller coaster this has been!! In what may be the LOWEST and WORST GPA I have ever had... I have decided to accept my B's and run with them. 3.0, never in my life... and while inside I am disappointed, the stress and magnitude of what has happened over the past week causes me to just go with it. My brain is so scattered, my life a whirlwind... I am just thankful to be done, so, I will take all of my B's knowing that in the end this is what's best. God has taken away the stress of finals, He has answered my prayers. His answers aren't always what I want them to be... but I rest assured knowing His ways are so much better than mine. Praise God!

This is an amazing journey that God has brought me on. He has changed my plans, and through following Him the desires of my heart of changing. As I continue to grow I hope that I grow deeply in the Lord and that I continue to become closer to Him.

So, I continue with school starting back May 31. I am completing my research the first half of the summer, and taking Complex Calculus the second half. Hunter left for Basic training and AIT today, and will return in August. I am excited for this amazing journey God is taking me on.. and I am so thankful for how much He has blessed me!!

The Tornado That Changed Us All

There literally are no words. Pictures do no describe the devastation in Tuscaloosa. The heart of Tuscaloosa, flattened.. communities rendered unrecognizable. People from my church who have lived here for years, have driven down streets and not been able to recognize where they were.

Wednesday, April 27 will be a day that many of us will never forget. Working and going to class... I remember checking the weather multiple times that day. Houses had just finished patching roofs from the storms the week before. We didn't know how bad it would get; we were bracing for severe thunder storms with a possibility of tornadoes. I went to my 3 o'clock class, knowing bad weather was on its way. When the sirens went off in class my heart dropped. Much to my dismay, my teacher didn't understand what the siren meant and it took us a while before we frantically moved downstairs. As we were standing downstairs I was using the wifi to check facebook and news pages. I saw a picture someone posted of the tornado just as the power went out. The weather alert then went off for us to take cover. Me and a few girls from my class ran from the hallway into the bathroom, we figured it would be a little safer than the open hallway. It was pitch black and we could hear the winds, the doors to Gordan Palmer opening and slamming uncontrollably. It was utter chaos. The warnings had been extended.. after it was over we all came outside phones were going crazy and it was so hard to get in touch with anyone. It was then that we were told to go and get somewhere safe. Everyone was coming out of all buildings on campus and I drove a friend to her car across campus. Then I started trying to get to my apartment. The first road I tried was completely blocked... traffic was crazy and there was mass confusion. I talked to my sister on the phone and she let me know that entire areas had been wiped out. Little did I know the tornado went across every available path for me to get home, completely cutting me off. I tried a least eight streets trying to remain calm and work my way home... as I was traveling down Greensboro we were told again to turn around that you couldn't get through. As I was turning around I say a man and woman carrying a computer server up the street. They asked if they could have a ride to their car, which was parked up the street and I agreed. I told them where I lived and asked about getting to my apartment...they, as well as others around me told me it was impossible. The cops began yelling at us telling us more tornadoes were coming and to get to a safe place and off the streets. It was then that this family became my new friends. I did the unthinkable. My first thought was 'Do not talk to strangers!' However, this lady looked at me and said, we have a basement, you need to come with us. In what was probably the craziest moment of my life I agreed. There was no way to get home, and I had no way of contacting anyone else... my phone was dying. So, in the midst of chaos, I took this family to their car and the lady rode with me to their house. I went home with STRANGERS!! (and lived to tell about it!) It was so crazy, my phone lived long enough for me to tell my mom I had picked people up off the side of the street and was going home with them; how heart wrenching is that?!

Upon arriving at their home I met their children and another family. We began our camp out, getting out the radio and checking the weather. Their power was soon restored and we watched the weather pass us by. Unsure of how to contact anyone or what to do about work I asked the lady if I could borrow her phone to contact my family. Thankfully this was a Christian family who seemed grounded in their faith. I told my mom I was staying with 'Jesus people' however, that didn't make her feel any better; she wanted me out of there! I prepared myself to go in to work the next day and the family offered me a room in their house, let me take a shower and use some clothes for pajamas. They were truly angels sent by God.

I woke up the next morning at 4:30am, unsure of really what to do or if I would be able to go anywhere. I decided then that I would go home first, start my phone charging and then contact work. I drove through Northport and completely around Tuscaloosa, and then backtracked home. I was finally able to make it, and I couldn't believe my eyes along the way. Twisted metal, cars, homes... devastation everywhere. When I arrived at my apartment I was so thankful to be home!! My apartment was relatively untouched. I woke Gabby to let her know I was finally home... after leaving my house at 5:30am Wednesday, I was finally able to return at 6am Thursday. As my phone charged I got online and posted to facebook that I was safe.. and then called my Mom. She was so happy that I was home. I called work and made sure I didn't have to go in.. so I settled down and tried to calm down. I checked my facebook and saw that Hunter had driven through the night to get to Tuscaloosa. I couldn't believe it. He drove from Arkansas, to check on me. I sent him a text saying that I was ok and sorry that I had been unreachable. He and one of his friends had come and worked through the early hours of the morning to set up a shelter. He then asked to come to my apartment and see me. Seeing him was a relief. It was unspeakable to finally see someone I knew and to be able to know I was truly safe.

In the days to follow I went out with my church to help with the destruction. I have cooked, prepared and passed out meals. I have cleaned trees out of yards, and helped anyone that would let us. I am so thankful for my college group and our willingness to work. So much devastaion is all around us... I have posted many pictures on facebook, but honestly the pictures do not do it justice... Lord, help us all.

Please be in prayer for those still missing and those who have lost everything... even in this trauma those of us who are alive are truly the lucky ones. Stuff can always be replaced. It was a ghost town the first few days, with no traffic lights or power working it was very hard to get around. We have power crews from all over the country and National Guard units from all over as well. I am so thankful for all those who have come to Tuscaloosa to help us. Praise the Lord for the goodness of people and the outpouring of support. This recovery will take a long time.. but through it all may God receive the glory for what he has done and the blessings he has given us! 

Back in the Swing...

This weekend I was fortunate enough to help some recent graduates from the college group at my church move into their new apartment in Birmingham. It is amazing to see how God worked so perfectly in their lives. Longing to stay in Tuscaloosa, neither could find a job here or in the Birmingham area upon graduation... So they moved back to her home of Montgomery, where she was able to find a job. However, he was still unable to find a job, and greatly struggled with this fact. It all goes to show you that God's timing is perfect. She applied for and received a wonderful job at UAB and he was able to find a great job in the Birmingham area as well. Praise be to the Lord!

We were able to bring all of their stuff from Montgomery, and with the help of family and a few people from the college group get them completely moved into and set up in their new apartment. I was honestly impressed with us! And it was so nice to leave there knowing that they didn't have weeks of unpacking to deal with.

Afterwards we went to PF Changs to celebrate. I had never been to PF Changs, and if you ask my friend Daniel, everything is amazing. And, it truly was. It was a fun experience with the group and it was a great time of fellowship. I then stayed in Birmingham with Tori and visited a church with her that she was interested in attending... It was a little too big for our taste, but I know God will bless her desire to be in His house.

Newest challenge for this semester: Remember the Couch to 5k last semester? Well this semester the Wellness initiative at UA is called 'Strive for Five,' and I was chosen by my boss to be the coordinator for the entire shop. Here's a small flyer to briefly explain Strive for Five.

My couch to 5K team has now dubbed ourselves the 'High Maintenance' team and we have picked out drink and move to be our two challenges to complete. I am also trying to learn to eat healthier by incorporating more fruit/vegetables into my diet... It is amazing when you actually think about these things.. the stuff that you will notice.

Now, if you know me, you know I hate water. So drinking 40 ounces of water a day has been, well.. tough. But Monday I got out my Nalgene bottle (32 oz) and filled it up... then flavored my water with Crystal Lite. From my first sip at 6am until my last at 2:30pm I literally felt like I was drowning in water... swimming, floating even. Yes, I am ashamed to say, it took me 8 hours to drink five eight ounce glasses of water....

Tuesday was a better story, I worked hard and finished my 40 ounces by 1:30pm. And I think an hour of improvement is pretty great. HAHA. I always have to take joy in the small things. ;) So today is another challenge. I am trying plain water today... and we are going to see how far it goes. This will be my daily tasks to add for this semester....

Other than all of this... life is back in the swing. The semester has started, tests are scheduled, and homework is due. I am once again spending my days working and going to class and my nights studying. It all seems a little calmer this semester, just a little bit.. But that is because now I know what to expect. :)

A 'greener' UA

I am so fortunate to work, live, and play at UA. What a great place. I have honestly come to believe that this is God's country. :)

However, I was surprised when I got here how easy it was to recycle. Recycling bins are literally ALL OVER campus, with multiple bins in all locations. Alabama even boasts a recycling project for tailgaters on the quad during game days. UA makes recycling EASY!

Recently while cleaning out my office, I was able to recycle years of paperwork, rather than throwing it all away. It is helpful that we do have a strong recycling department, and they were able to come over and pick up everything I had. Also, a manager and myself also have specified places at our desks for recycling. Our jobs involve a lot of paperwork, and any time I can put a piece of paper into my recycling pile it gives me a sense of satisfaction. Even all our shredded material gets picked up by the recyclers! :)

This is my recycling stack on my back desk!

Yes, I have two desks at work. It provides all the space and storage I need, and a perfect out of the way place to recycle! I usually take my stack out once to twice a week. As far as me and recycling goes... EVERY little bit helps.

Alabama is working hard to promote recycling, even through graduation. Read this article about how UA saved over 23,000 plastic bottles from landfills, just by hosting the December graduation.  Check out UA's 'green' commencement regalia!

ROLL TIDE!

OH! What a beautiful morning!

This morning I awakened at 4:12am and the first thing that popped into my head was 'Praise be to God for a restful night's sleep! And I get to sleep for 45 more minutes!' Seriously, that was my thought process. Have you taken time to acknowledge God in your life? Sometimes, we all forget to. And sometimes I seem to acknowledge him in the weirdest ways, and people always laugh.

I am so happy with how my semester is going right now. I have done homework, went to class, and of course pulled my usual 40 hours. AND I was even able to go to girls night with the college group at church this week! Last night I was able to cook dinner for Gabby and myself, and even watch a little American Idol.

This weekend is going to be full of fun, especially since it is my first weekend in Tuscaloosa since the new year. My Mom and Dad are coming up for the gymnastics meet on Friday, and I am really excited to see the Tide in action. We have such a great team, I know the meet will be amazing. Watching Crimson Tide gymnastics is something I grew up on. I can remember driving up some days and then sitting in the dark coliseum as they introduced the team... what a great experience. I am excited to be able to share that with my family once again.

Classes are going well, and Jordan is doing well. Prayers are still appreciated and needed, as we hope to catch her assailant and for her to regain her confidence and sense of security, as well as healing.

It is a beautiful morning, and it is going to be a beautiful day. I can't wait to have a wonderful weekend with my family, and I hope each of you have a great weekend as well!

First day of Spring 2011

Yesterday was my first day of classes for Spring 2011. After much anxiety and heartache about starting it was finally time. I was deeply worried that this semester will turn out as horrible as last semester truly was; that I would be stressed beyond belief, too tired to stay awak in class, and just overall weary and unhappy.

Matthew chapters 6 and 7 are some of my favorite Bible passages.

25"For this reason I say to you, do not be worried about your life, as to what you will eat or what you will drink; nor for your body, as to what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? 26"Look at the birds of the air, that they do not sow, nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more than they? 27"And who of you by being worried can add a single hour to his life?

Praise be to the Lord! I went back to these familiar verses and passages and was able to calm my heart and soul. Also, as my theme verse for this time in my life is Jeremiah 29:11, I have been reminded of a verse I treasured throughout my earlier teen years...

9"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

What powerful verses God has given to me through this time in my life. Isn't His LIVING word amazing??

So yesterday I started my routine all over again. I got up at 5am, got ready, packed my lunch and left for work. (This hasn't changed the past month, and I am so blessed to have such a great job!) 6am greats me with so many wonderful men who I am so lucky to work with and for. It was our first 'normal' day back from the weather and the office and shop was buzing. I then left at 10:30am to go to my 11 o'clock class. It was great! The professor is so much more organized than my professor from last semster in the first half of this course; and he seems to have a great since of humor. After class I then returned to work for another two and a half hours before leaving at 2:30pm to go to my next class. This class seems to be a relatively simple class, and we shall see how it goes. My interpretation of Chinese accents has been greatly strengthened through my time here in Tuscaloosa.. something I never thought I would end up saying. And this will be my Monday's and Wednesday's.

My schedule seems to be a bit calmer this semester.. even though I start every day at six I am done with school and work by 4:15pm! Hooray!! So my nights again will be filled with homework, and I am making the most of this time without it. But God has truly calmed my heart about this semester, and I know that I am working toward His plan. I am so thankful for all He has richly blessed me with!