It's Beginning to Look a lot Like Christmas...

Christmas is literally right around the corner, and tonight I get to enjoy some genuine Christmas spirit and joy!

My Sophomore year of high school, I began singing with a group of girls from church called "Sweet Peace." These girls had already been singing together for around ten years. We would sing various A Capella songs and sing them at church, LTC, festivals, and other community activities. We would practice every week and perform numerous times a year. Not to mention the matching outfits we had! I loved being involved with this group, learning music, and making some great friendships!

Camille came up with the great idea for us to get together and go caroling tonight around town! Which of course we were all so excited to get the chance to sing together again! It had been a little over 2 years since the last time we sang together, and we were looking forward to our little reunion. We went to various homes (mostly our parents and people from church) ,and sang Christmas carols. I had forgotten how much fun I have with these girls when we all get together!

My favorite part of the evening was towards the end of the night when we went to the Stewarts house. This was were we spent a many of hours practicing all of our songs. Mayre was our director and the mother of three of the girls in the group. She has recently been diagnosed with cancer and it felt great for us to be able to share what she had taught us so many times....to love music. We sat around for quite a while and sang songs that we had sang through out our time together as a group. We also recalled story after story that we shared while growing up. I can't really think of a time when you can just sit down and sing together as a group, acappella, various harmonies, and make it sound so beautiful!

Looking back over the past 10 years or so, I now realize how much of an impact this group and these friendships made on my life. Each one of these girls (and Brad) set a wonderful example for me as well as to allow me to be a part of such a wonderful ministry. I am truly thankful for each and every one of the members of our group. And I am so happy that I had the chance to be a part of such an amazing group of talented singers. Sweet Peace (Peas) for life.

"Abba Father, Take me higher, Abba, Father, Take me home."
-A Cappella

you found me

I continue to be amazed at how God works. I don't always understand it, but I continue to be fascinated on a daily basis. The past couple of days of proven very true to that statement.

Friday, I headed off to Abilene, but first took a small detour to pick Lauryn up from the airport, and then continued on to West Texas. The car ride went by fairly quick while Lauryn and I caught each other up on life, which was wonderful. When we arrived into Abilene, graduation was taking place. Lauryn and I decided that we should go up to graduation for the last 20 minutes so that we could hear and take part in the singing of the Lord bless you and keep you. All of this made perfectly since, seeing how the two of us are obsessed with ACU. So, we did. We grabbed Jamie and proceeded to take part in one of our favorite ACU traditions, and yes I did cry. After graduation I had the joy of getting to see some of my friends and as well as a few of my favorite past professors. Who knew ACU graduation could be so fun? The night ended with countless laughs and crazy stories as Jamie and I had the chance to catch up.

Saturday, Meagan and I went to see Twilight (#2 viewing for me). Meagan had not seen the movie yet and is in the process of reading the books, Which I recommend to everyone! The rest of the day Jamie and I got to spend more time catching up. And let me say this, when we get together it is always a fun time. Very out of control though, I might add.

Saturday night Jamie and I had planned on being each others date to Casey and Mason's wedding. She was James and I was Ben. She was the best date I have ever had. Meagan, James and I went to the wedding (and yes I cried for the majority of the ceremony), which was absolutely beautiful! Casey looked stunning and the wedding fit the two of them just perfect. I am so thrilled for those two and cannot wait to see what the Lord has planned for them! How wonderful it is to see Him bring these two together and be able to witness it all!

Sunday, after I made my way back to Rio, I decided to call one of my best friends from high school that I had not talked to in over a year. He served in the Marines for 4 years and went on 2 tours in Iraq. Andrew is one of my most favorite people in the world! I didn't get a hold of him, but then later on that evening got a phone call and we decided to meet in town. All I can say is wow. Andrew completely opened my eyes. He is a changed man, and we talked for ever about everything. We updated each other about what had gone on this past year and what he had to say was exactly what I needed to hear. Andrew has completely changed his life and hearing his testimony tonight was one of the biggest blessings I have ever heard in my life. We talked about religion, our families, our beliefs, how he has decided to go to a Christian college to get an education after he has served 4 years in the Marines. We discussed old stories from high school, our future goals, what we would like our future spouses to be like, and how we felt about certain issues in life. As I write this now, my mind is still racing from our conversation. I can't begin to fathom everything right now, and how it seems that me calling him was out of the blue but yet hearing us talk tonight was the perfect ending to a wonderful weekend. I am so proud of Andrew and thank the Lord for how powerful He is and how He continues to show His ever hand in my life.

This weekend could not have gone any better. I found a sense or sate of mind that I have been searching for. To hear how God works in other lives' and to see how God can bless us with friendships that continue to push and bless us everyday, and to witness the joining of a man and a woman in His name.....it makes you take a step back. I am thankful for Him and all that he does as I continue to search for God knows what.

"Lost and insecure, You found me, you found me. Lying on the floor, surrounded, surrounded. Why'd you have to wait? Where were you? Where were you? just a little late... You found me, you found me."
-The Fray

Road Trip

This past Friday morning at 5 a.m, my dad and I drove the long yet beautiful roads to Brentwood, TN. We arrived around 5 p.m., which we made great timing. We made the trip up there so that I could retrieve my winter clothes, as well as the rest of my things that were being stored at the Flow's house. It was quite a puzzle to try to fit everything in our pilot, but somehow my dad made it work. It was actually a great trip. The drive went by quite fast, as my dad and I took turns driving. Although the leaves had fallen off the trees, the scenery was still beautiful!

I was actually very excited to return to Tennessee and was extremely sad to leave. I have decided that I do want to go back up there and live, but just not quite sure when. I'm leaving that up to our Father. The area of Tennessee that I was in is so breathe taking and I know that I am destined to go back.

The trip was very quick, for my dad and I left at 7 a.m. to make the drive back to Texas. We arrived back that evening around 7:30 p.m. and were pretty exhausted. But it was worth the trip and honestly, it was something we had to get accomplished.

Yesterday, my friends and I had the joy of celebrating our annual Christmas party. Although everyone could not attend, we still had a great time! We tried to stick to an annual Kojie tradition, the panty exchange, as our gifts to each other. Our time was spent catching up on every one's lives, making future plans with each other, and of course food. I love those girls and do not know what I would ever do with out each and every one of them in my life. God bless the ds.

"Hallelujah, Everybody say cheese! Merry Christmas from the Family!"
-Robert Earl Keen

Thankful

Whew! Well the past few weeks have flown by so fast and it is hard to believe that it is already December! I guess a brief summary is due to catch up on my crazy beautiful life....

My parents and I had the joy of making a quick trip to Abilene to watch ACU sweep past West Texas A&M 93-68! What a game it was! It was absolutely wonderful to be able to go back and watch such a wonderful game and to be able to see a few of my favorite people! And not to mention, my brother got bring his girlfriend as well so that she could experience some of our love for ACU! Needless to say, we are an ACU obsessed family! Or maybe that's just me....

This year I had the joy of taking a big part in the making of Pattie's homemade pies. My mom makes and sells pies every year, and her major baking times are Thanksgiving and Christmas! Seeing how I have some spare time on my hands, I had the pleasure to help bake them alot this year! We both stayed very busy with making pies, but that's ok, I actually do enjoy being able to help people the chance to let people taste my mom's wonderful pies!

Before we knew it, it was time for Thanksgiving, One of my most favorite times of the year! We had a pretty laid back Thanksgiving full of Thanksgiving traditions of watching the Cowboy game, and then Texas vs. A&M. I love football!....And how can I forget Black Friday. We did venture to Dallas to fight the crowds for a few hours, but this might have been the shortest Black Friday trip ever. And that's how I like it.

And on Friday night, I might have done the best thing ever....I went to a movie all by myself to see the much awaited movie Twilight! Oh my word, I am in love with this movie! It was absolutely wonderful! I am now a proud fan of Twilight and have just began reading the books. I actually finished the first book in 7 hours.....yeah, I am little out of control!

Saturday we went to have Thanksgiving lunch with my Mom's side of the family. It was wonderful to see everyone! Although, everyone couldn't be there, we still had a wonderful time and enjoyed some wonderful food!

I am once again reminded how thankful I am to have the family, life, friends that I have, and so much more! Although, things may not be going the way I want them to be going right now, I am still pressing on. I am learning to be very patient as I wait to see what is going to happen next.


"So for tonight we pray for What we know can be. And on this day we hope for What we still can't see. It's up to us to be the change And even though we all can still do more There's so much to be thankful for."
-Josh Groban
"Thankful"

Progress

I'll have to admit, I have not been doing a good job with keeping up with my blog. My life has been pretty calm for the past month or so, and haven't had a whole lot to write about., but I am hoping that is all going to change very soon.

Over the recent weeks I've been spending time with my friends, family, and doing some traveling here and there. I am still awaiting to see where God wants to send me, and so I am waiting patiently, which can be hard at times, because I do not have the greatest amount of patience. I also do not like not having a plan, and so all of these issues can be quite stressful at times.

Recently, I have had the chance to catch up with friends in the DFW area,as well as Austin, and Abilene. This past weekend I made the lone road trip to Lubbock for Jordan and Calli's wedding, which I never been to Lubbock before, or if I have, I do not remember it. Their wedding was absolutely beautiful and every detail fit them perfectly! It was such a wonderful west Texas fall wedding! Not to mention the fact that I did get to see some of my favorite people in the world and catch up with them as well. I am so glad that I made the trip up there!

Other than that, I have been hanging out pretty low. I have been working on myself. Trying to relax, take it one day at a time, work out like I never have before, and enjoy life for what it is. I heard someone mention this the other morning on Good Morning America, "Progress, not Perfection." I love that quote, and I think that is what I am trying to go for right now.

"Even when the rain falls, Even when the floods start rising, Even when the storm comes, I am washed by the water."
-Needtobreathe

purple and white

Now I do realize that this post is long overdue. I am beginning to slack on my blog posting , but I am hoping to get back into the swing of things soon. A few weekends ago I travel to Abilene. I few took at small detour to visit my Grandma and Aunt, (which I had a delightful time). I arrived in Abilene on a Thursday to begin the festivities of my first ACU Homecoming as an Alum. Weird, I know. I stayed with a wonderful friend of mine, Meagan that I known since freshmen year, and we had blast! By the way, thanks again Meagan for putting up with me for 4 days!

It was so wonderful to be back in Abilene! The first thing I did was drive around campus twice so that I could take everything in. It was like being in college all over again. The weekend was full of seeing friends, screaming like little girls when we all saw each other, visiting my old office and amazing bosses, attending some intramural football, watching two of my wonderful friends Jennifer and Jamie on Homecoming court, attending Friday chapel, Queen's tea with my best friend Jennifer, float night to see the Nunu's, Kojie breakfast, the Homecoming Parade, buying my sing song tickets, watching the No. 2 football team in the nation (ACU Wildcats) beat Tarleton, dinner with my favorite people in the world, church with my favorite freshman, Mo, and Casey's lingerie shower! I finished up the weekend by staying at my Nanny and Pawpaw's house! What a weekend! I was so thankful to see so many of my favorite people and catch up on everything!

My friends and I did discuss how it didn't feel weird being back at all. It was like we were at home. The only thing that made it different was how we couldn't all go back to the Korner or headquarters to hang out afterwards. That's when reality hit. Homecoming did make me realize how thankful I am to have gone to ACU and to have the friends that I made there as well as to have made to many wonderful memories that I will forever cherish!

And now for Jennifer, I was so honored that she asked me to be a part of her weekend! She has been such a wonderful friend and I am so thankful for her and her continuous support! And I cannot wait to see her shine as a Hostess for Sing Song this year! I won't touch Sing Song too much because let's face it, that topic will need about 2 to 3 posts by itself.

In the end, I love ACU! And I loved Homecoming! Can't wait for the next one! And I do realize that I bleed more purple and white than most people do, and I am fine with that. I'm not afraid to admit that I did wear purple everyday during homecoming weekend. I just had to support my school.


"Oh, dear Christian College we love you, Our dear Alma mater today. Like stars shining brightly above you, your face will shine brightly for aye! To you we hold faithful and loyal, whatever upholding the right, and gladly we'll give forth the royal, three cheers for the purple and white!!"
-ACU Alma Mater

Pink.

Wow. Since I've been home for the past three weeks I have been taking my dear sweet time and not blogging, nor have I done much but relax, re-focus, workout (which has been amazing), and enjoy this time with family and friends. For this I am truly thankful.

On October 18th, my mom, cousin Ashley, and myself participated in the Dallas Race for the Cure. It was a 5K run/walk around North Park. There were around 30,000 participants, but man oh man, it is something I will never forget.

The three of us had originally decided that we would walk it , but with 30,000 people it was hard to walk and still get a "good" work out. So, we ran. But not just your normal run. We made a game out it. We would start running and look for holes in amongst the crowd, then we would run into the holes and continue to dodge people and the curbs. It was kinda like football minus having big/ginormous players with football pads trying to tackle you. Regardless, it was a work out!

We all had matching shirts and my mom wore a pink hat. The survivors were given pink hats to show that they had survived! That was a really amazing thing to see within the crowd of people....all of the survivors. I wore two pink ribbons: One for my mom and another one for my Kojie sponsor Gayla Pope who was diagnosed this year. It was definitely an honor to wear their names!

I hope that we are able to make this a yearly tradition. It was such a wonderful thing to be a part of and once again I am reminded how truly blessed I am to be able to serve such a power God that answers prayers....and provides us with wonderful mothers.

"I have been blessed, and I feel like I've found my way! I thank God for all I've been given at the end of every day!"
-Martina McBride

Feels Like Home

After around 13 hours of driving from Tennessee to Texas, I was finally home. We did make a few little stops here and there, stopping at Loretta Lynn's Country Store, stopping to see my cousin Julie and her two children, Casen and Kinley, and then of course the usual gas/restroom/and food stops, but we made it home!

We first drove through an area right outside of Franklin called Leiper's Fork (Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman live there) on our way out of town. That area is one of the prettiest things I have ever seen! It was absolutely stunning! The trees are changing with deep colors of orange, green, yellow, red, and dark Burgundy. It takes your breath away just to see all of God's beautiful creation. I've decided that one of my new favorite things is driving through the country and seeing the leaves that have fallen from the trees blew in the air as you drive through them. It is just a beautiful sight to see!

The trip seemed to go by fast, although when we hit the Texas line I insisted that we stop and let me take a picture at the state line! I was so excited to be back, even though it is just for a few weeks! I do have so much to get done during this time, but I am looking forward to it! These next weeks will hopefully unfold so much to me and I am excited to see what all the Lord has in store!


"Take me home, country roads, to the place I belong...."
-John Denver

Hope

This past week has been the biggest whirlwind I think I have ever experienced. I left my job, moved out (all by myself might I add), and dispersed my stuff at two different houses (thank you Flow and Pierce family). Although this past week was one of the hardest to endure, I am doing good. I am feeling relieved, scared, but hopeful in all of this. My parents are traveling up here this weekend for us to do some apartment shopping and meet up with some old friends. On Monday I will be driving back with them to Texas where I will stay for about 2 and half weeks to regroup and relax. During this time I am going to go visit friends, family, walk in the Race for the Cure with my mom, and attend ACU's Homecoming (Ahh! Can't wait about that one)! This is going to be a good time for me to heal and regain my focus. I am looking forward to getting away for a bit, but know that I will be anxious in my return to the 615. 

I did however get to meet up with some great family friends of ours that my parents went to college with and who I have known since birth, John and Jana Duty. They came up to Tennessee to attend ZOE conference. Having them up here during this time was an answered prayer! They took me under their wing and just loved on me as if they were my parents far away from home! I appreciate all that they did and will be forever grateful! 

I did attend bits and pieces of ZOE conference this weekend. It was great! The theme was "Fearless." And boy it was a great message to hear and of course it was exactly what I needed to hear. Funny how God has His way of allowing us to hear what we need to hear just when we need to hear it. I thoroughly enjoyed hearing and worshiping with ZOE Group! As well as hearing Mike Cope and Randy Harris speak. I feel like they gave me a small piece of Abilene to carry around with me. 

This week however is going to give me some time to get a few things accomplished and to relax and soak up some of this beautiful Tennessee Fall! But in the mean time, let the search begin...

"Cold in a summer breeze. Yeah, you're shivering on your bended knee. Still, when your heart is sore and the heavens pour like a willow bending with the storm, you'll make it. Running against the wind, playing the cards you get, something is bound to give. There's hope for the hopeless!"

-A Fine Frenzy

More Time in this city

I am a big decision recently that I had to make for myself. I decided to leave my job as a "family assistant." It was a very hard decision to make because I have never "quit" anything in my life. That's not who I am and I try with everything in me to succeed and hate failing at anything. But this job was just not for me. I felt that I was loosing who I was and that I was not liking the person I was becoming. It was/is time for a change.

I've decided to stay up here in Tennessee and continue to work and pursue the dreams I have for myself. I love this area and also the church I attend. I've met and made some great friends. I feel like I just need some more time so to do my thing. 

So, I'm back in the hunt for a job. It's scary but truthfully, I'm not that worried. God will provide, he always does. Determination is key ,and I know something will happen. I am excited to see what God has planned as my new adventure, but I am also ready to begin it now! I feel like have so much more to offer to others and I want to put what He has blessed me with to good use! I pray continually for patience, hope, and that I will allow him to place me where I am best needed in order to do his will. But oh how I wish he would show me now! I'm ready, let's go! 

" I promised you the world again. Everything with in my hands. All the riches one could dream, They will come from me. I hoped that you could understand, that this is not what I had planned. Please don't worry now, It will turn around.......cause I need more time. Just a few more months and we'll be fine."

-needtobreathe

"You're the God of this city. You're the King of the people. You're the Lord of this nation, You are. You're the Light in the darkness. You're the Hope to the hopeless. You're the Peace to the restless, You are. 

There is no one like our God. For Greater things have yet to come and Greater things are still to be done in this city!"

-Chris Tomlin

Hitched.

So a lot has happened since the last time I wrote a little something on this here blog....

One of my college roommates, Shelley got married to a wonderful guy and friend of mine John David. These two are great. Both as individuals and together. I am quite sad that I didn't get to exactly say what I wanted to at the rehearsal dinner because I got a little nervy. So I'll say some of if now. I am so thankful that Shelley had horrible roommates at the beginning of her junior year because that meant I got to live with her. She has been one of the best roommates I have ever lived with. We've been through a lot! She has been one of the biggest encouragers and supporters of me and has been my shoulder to cry on, a great walking buddy, and the best cake decorator ever. Marring John David only makes her that much more amazing. He is such a wonderful and caring friend and now husband to her. He was the perfect 4th roommate. (No he didn't sleep at our house, but was just there a lot, but we didn't mind) He's so super funny! Some of my greatest memories are with him and Shelley and just hearing them pick on each other or seeing him do his sexy dance. I love them both and could not be happier for them. Thank you for letting me be a part of your lives and wedding and excepting my bumbliness!

I pray only the best for the two of you and am thankful for what you have meant to me in my life and I can't wait to see what God has in store for both of you! 

"The union of your spirits has caused him to remain. For whenever two or more are gathered in his name....There is Love."

Peter, Paul, and Mary

Paper Planes

I realize that I am a little behind on writing for the week. I usually try to write on the weekends, but it's been a little crazy around here and I haven't had much time to write. I have finally found a small break in my day right now, so that's why I decided to write a little something.

This past weekend I went on a retreat with the Single Focus group from church. There were about 80 of us at Hy-Lake Camp in McMinnville, TN....the boondocks I should say. It turned out to be a great weekend! I met a lot of new people, which is one of the goals I had made for myself and I got to get to know the friends I already had a little bit better. 

This weekend however, I get to travel home for John David and Shelley's (my college roommate) wedding! I am so excited for this weekend to see everyone and get to be a part of Shelley's big day! I'm sure I'll have plenty to write about this next weekend. As for now, that is all.

Let Texas Feel My Soul

Pat Green. I do love that man, ok so maybe just his music. Amanda, Kathryn, one of Kathryn's friends and myself went to see him in concert at City Hall's closing concert this past weekend! City which is a great little venue is closing down to become an Urban Outfitters, and I'm ok with that. The concert was really quite great! Pat was so good! The atmosphere of the other people there was something I could have gone without, but that's ok. Amanda and I went crazy every time he would say something about Texas! 

God bless the fact that he is from Texas and has as much pride as Amanda and I have! I had no shame looking like an idiot anytime he said anything about Texas even though I was amongst lots of crazy Tennessseans! The concert was a great little boost of Texas Pride!

This weekend was also the beginning of Life Groups at church! I am so excited about my group and can't wait to get started! I'm in the same group as Amanda and am so thankful for that! She continues to bless me with her wonderful friendship! She has been so great in welcoming me and encouraging me in so many ways! I am truly thankful for her and thank God for allowing us to have such a great friendship!

In the end, I do realize I made two postings on the same day, but I just had so much to say! This weekend was another great one! God bless Kara, Pat Green, Texas, Life Groups, and Amanda.

"Now we were SouthBound 35, We were heading down the road! Hit the border by the morning, Let Texas feel my soul!"

-Pat Green

My Little Black Cat

I know that I may get made fun for this posting, but let's face it, I really don't care. My precious cat Kara (no, she was not named after Cara Gentry, let's get that straighten out right now) passed away this weekend. She was attacked by some stupid neighborhood dogs. I will kill them you mark by word. (Another reason why I don't like dogs!) I hate that she had to die that way, but she died peacefully inside with my parents after they got her away from the dogs. She was 17 years old and had become a part of our family! I absolutely adored her! She was the best cat ever and practically human as well. She was very smart, knew her name, knew what "no" meant, and she loved us too, we know it. 

I found out yesterday after church about what had happened to her. My mom was precious and called Amanda and had it set up to where I was supposed to call my mom while I was still with Amanda so I could have some moral support. Of course I cried and cried and cried. I am however thankful that my parents came up with the whole have Amanda there thing. She was great moral support! Even after hung up the phone, I sat there with Amanda and I told her a bunch of stories about Kara. Cute.

Kara was a part of our family and we loved her for 17 great years! She was with us through a lot of things! I will truly miss that wonderful little cat! 

Crazy Wonderful Life

This weekend has been a crazy one! Good, but crazy. As I write this post, I am awaiting a phone call from American Airlines because they did not get my luggage on my flight home. Really? Figure it out is all I can say! But now for a weekend rap-up.

Friday, I flew out of Nashville where I set off the security and had to be individually searched because my bobby-pins set off the scanner. Cool. And my flight was delayed and hour because of bad weather in Dallas. I finally got the Dallas though and was able to go with my Dad to watch my brother coach some Howe Bulldogs football. They won! Which was great because that meant our after-the-game picture would be a good once because he would be in a good mood. I got to see him coach and hang out with his girlfriend, who is quite precious, and spend some time with my Dad. Good times (in the words of Macy)

Saturday, I spent about 4 hours at the hair salon getting my hair back to its original color. I dyed it black around mid- June. Dumb idea/mistake. It has taken a long process to get it back but it finally is back to my natural color and I am leaving it this way for a while. Or maybe forever.

That night we traveled to Granbury to see my cousin Taylor marry Kelcie. I am so excited for them! And their wedding was absolutely beautiful! Of course I cried....a lot in fact. I think that was a very special wedding to me because this was my baby cousin getting married and having my almost 80 year old PawPaw marry them was quite a special treat. I had such a great time at the wedding seeing family and friends that I hadn't seen in a while. Oh how I miss them.

I will say this, I am a darn good cake cutter! My cousin's wife Dana and I cut the Bride's cake and we were pros. I mean we should maybe do that as a profession. Just kidding, but really, we were good at it.

I just love weddings and it was the perfect wedding!

Sunday, I went to church with the fam, spent the day dealing with other crazy things in my life, and then finally made it to the airport where my flight was once again delayed. And now I still wait for my luggage. Real cool American Airlines. Hopefully it will get here....eventually. Overall it was a good weekend. Once again I realize, I am truly blessed with this crazy, wonderful life.

Oh Chariot

Last night, Amanda, Jamie, and myself went to City Hall (entertainment venue) to see Gavin DeGraw in concert. Wow. I mean, Wow! He was absolutely amazing! We arrived at the show a little later than planned walked in and noticed the merchandise table. Of course I didn't really want to spend that much money on a shirt, but I did. Amanda and I both did. Because if you bought a t-shirt or cd or any other merchandise you received a wrist band that gave you access to meet him after the show! So you better believe we bought something so we could meet him!

The show was awesome! I mean absolutely amazing! He was so energetic and such a great musician! A great live performer and entertainer! He played a very good mix of his old stuff and new songs. Not to mention that he is such a good overall musician! He is so talented on both the guitar and piano. Needless to say the concert was hmm.....divine!

After the show, we all got in line to meet the one and only Gavin Degraw! We were all so excited! We were informed by the security guard that we were not allowed to take pictures with him, which was the one thing we all really really wanted! But I guess meeting him and getting his to sign my shirt worked just as well. I'm not going to lie, I was a little nervous to meet him! I had no idea what I was going to say, but I think I did a very good job! I was calm and cool and he was just the nicest person! I did tell him when he asked me what I thought about the show that I thought everything was so great and the show was so good! But that he didn't play my favorite song, "Meaning." He laughed and apologized , and I told him that he made up for it, so it was ok! I had to be sassy, it's what I do.

I love Gavin Degraw! That was such a good concert! Definitely one of my top 5! And I am so glad I got to see him and meet him and experience it all with my dear little piercey- poo (aka Amanda.) 

"Love has a reason, there's a meaning to the world, We're giving love!"

-Gavin DeGraw

When it Rains

One thing about this place that I do love is when it rains. It is beautiful. It's a different kind of rain here. It's hard to explain, but it is absolutely beautiful. Even though the skies may be gray and dreary, everything is still so green that it evens everything out. The calmness overtakes you and it is so easy to focus on how much beauty there is here rather than to look at the dark clouds above. I have been warned by some of the locals that when it storms I am not to take it lightly. The clouds like to sit above the Nashville area and the wind sweeps down through the trees and hills and it is easy for it to get ugly fast. The lightning however is remarkable. It is so bright and big. I love it.

I write this because over the past two days we have been getting hit by the remains of Tropical Storm Faye. We need the rain so bad! and thankfully we are getting just what we need.  

"Yeah, the sun may brighten your day but if I had my way, I'd take the rain."

-Eli Young Band

On My Mind

First of all, Shaley, I tried some new color schemes and none of them allow me to have a light background with dark writing. Sorry. But maybe you can help me figure something out.

I knew that this time of the year was going to be hard because I would be wanting to go back to ACU so bad! And, well I am. It finally hit me tonight. Welcome Week started today and tonight is candlelight devo and oh I wish I was there. I would give anything to move into Gardner dorm all over again and go through all of college again. I never really wanted to admit that this whole growing up thing was going to be hard and I think I've done a pretty good job of not allowing myself not get sappy and sad that I am finally a "Big Girl" and I don't get to be in college anymore. 

Part of me just wants to throw my hands up and just say ...I want to move back to Texas right now, but I refuse because God has blessed me and I am just trying my very best to follow him right now and I know that I am here for a reason and I want to fulfill my dreams so much. 

And once again I am reminded of this same verse..."And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge- that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God." Ephesians 3:17-19

Wow, now it's time to pull my big girl pants up.

Home Sweet Home

I recently discovered my new found love, the weekends. This weekend was especially important to me because it was my first time to go home since moving up to Nash. I got to fly by myself for the first time, which I now love flying, see my parents, watch one of my best friends get married, and then spend some quality time with my the best friends a girl could ever ask for. 

I spent Friday night with the rents at home. It was very relaxing and great to finally talk to them in person. I've missed them alot. It was also wonderful to sleep in my own bed. Man I miss that bed. Although I was absolutely exhausted from the week and I was falling asleep at dinner, hanging with the fam was a great feeling and a great boost to keep me going!

Saturday, I got to reunite with some of my most favorite people in the world (besides my fam and a few friends were absent), my friends. Oh how I wish I could rewind the past four years and relive them again, with those same people. I've missed them all so very much and as Amy Kay put it, "When we all get together it's like we regain our power. " So true. We all went to Marie and Bo's wedding. It was so beautiful and Marie looked amazing! Little did I know that I would start crying pretty heavily as she walked down the aisle, but boy did I. It was a great reunion. 

That night was Shelley's bachelorette party! It was a blast! We spent the whole night together in down town Ft. Worth and had some good times. Oh how I miss those girls! That night got me so excited for Shelley's wedding! One, because Shelley and John David are getting married. Two, because I get to come home. Three, because I get to have another reunion with my friends and family. I can't wait.

What I learned from the weekend :

1. It's great to get away from time to time.

2. I have the best family in the world.

3. Darkside for life.

4. I love watching sunsets from airplanes.

5. I am truly blessed.

For Marie

Marie has asked that I talk about the tots first day of school....so here is a typical school morning from this week...

Let's see, I wake 2 of the tots up at 5:30 (the older girls) so that they can get ready, then get the other 2 older ones up at 6:00. Then they all leave the house at 6:35 a.m. (They take the bus which is great because I don't have to drive them.) I then wake up 2 of the younger tots at 6:30 and help them get ready and make sure they eat some yummy breakfast and that they have their bags packed and such and have them on the bus by 7:30. Then I have the 4 year to myself......He doesn't leave for half day pre-k until 12:00, which means I have to feed him lunch and pick out his clothes and keep him somewhat entertained until then. During that same time, I am usually picking up the morning mess and laundry. Oh my mornings...

I get four year old to school and then have time to myself to go workout and become human for the day. I also start doing ZOE stuff and other office stuff from the home office and running errands...I get to do that until around 3:15 and then the tots start arriving home.

The oldest ones arrive home first and its straight to doing homework which takes place at the kitchen table. Who knew that I would have to keep doing school work after I graduated?... I mean in helping the kids with their homework I am having to actually re-teach myself how to do some things. Then the younger kids arrive home and they join us at the table for some quality homework time. After each tot is finished it is Chore time, which of course they hate, but let's face it, I do not care. When they are finished with chores they are allowed to play and do whatever they please until dinner time. 

I don't have to cook dinner but since I am having to eat like a complete health freak lately I usually cook something for myself. We then all eat dinner together, Cute, I know. After dinner, the kids help clean up the kitchen and then get ready for bed. 

Whew! That is a pretty good summary of a typical school day. They all had a great first day of school. Each experienced the first day jitters and excitement. All of them had brand new backpacks and new clothes on and it was precious, absolutely precious. Here is the grades the kids were going into....pre-k, 2nd, 3rd, 7th, 9th, 10th, 12th.

I did figure something out this week, I now know and understand how easy it is for moms to loose themselves once they have kids. It is so easy to say that you don't have time to workout or get ready or that you are too tired. But I've made a promise to myself, I will not be like that. 

There ya go Marie. I'm excited about ending this blog because my next entry will be about my events during my trip home, which includes your wedding! 

Deep Breath

Tomorrow is a big day. It's the tots first day of school, which means I will be waking up at 5:15 a.m to make sure they are up and ready to go. School here starts at 7:25 a.m., which is crazy! I have been waiting for this day to come so that I can have a set schedule! I love having a set plan and I'm so ready to have things in order! I feel like this week will be a little crazy trying to get the kids used to their school routine and their set chores that they have to do before and after school. So I am trying to remind myself to take a deep breath.

Thankfully I enjoyed yet another great weekend with Amanda and her mom going to dinner and seeing the beautiful countryside of Tennessee at Arrington Vineyards (owned by Kix Brooks of Brooks and Dunn). This place was breath taking! And thankfully I have something at the end of the week/weekend to keep me pumped and able to make it through the week....I get to go home to Texas on Friday! I am so excited to go home for Marie's wedding and Shelley's bachelorette weekend! I have never wanted to see my friends and family so bad in my life! I feel like my brain is just going and going.....

"If I just breathe, Let it fill the space between, I'll know everything is alright. Breathe, Every little piece of me you'll see, everything is alright. If I just breathe..."

-Michelle Branch

A Few Complaints

1. People in Tennessee cannot drive. Granted Amanda warned me about this, but in all seriousness, they can't. They like to ride your tail, pull out in front of you, and also think that since they are driving nice cars and what not that they can get away with anything. 

2. People in Tennessee hate Texas. Sad story, but true. If I hear one more time when I introduce myself to others or being introduced to someone and they ask, "Where did you move here from?" and I reply, "Texas," and they follow up by saying something lame like...." Oh I'm sorry. Texas sucks!," or I hate Texas," or "Good thing you moved up here because Texans have too much state pride and they really shouldn't because it's not all that great,"....the list could go on and on, ugh, I just know that I will say something rude back. Cause here's the deal, Texas should just conquer all of the other states. Let's face the fact that we are pretty much the best state. Ever...Did I mention that I love Texas?

God Bless Texas...

Ok, I'm off my soap box for the time being.

Absolutely Divine

Absolutely Divine. That is the best way to describe my day today. I got to sleep in, which let me say that it was some sleep that was greatly needed after an exhausting week! And then I spent the day with Amanda shopping, eating lunch with her and her mom, eating dinner and enjoying some long talks and coffee with a friend from church....this day was wonderful according to Amanda and myself.

This weekend is tax free in Tennessee, which their tax is so much higher than in Texas. Amanda and I decided to just go look around. We first spent about an hour and a half at Borders books. I have decided to become an avid book reader again and Amanda already is so having her there to help recommend books was great! Yes, back in the day when I wasn't forced to read I was an active member of the babysitters club novels, and always bought a ton of books at the school book fairs. I've come to the realization that now that I have a college degree I guess that it would be wise to start reading again. That way I can still try to feel like I am learning things, and on occasion, feel smart from time to time.

Then we hit the mall, and I made my first purchase here in Tennessee....a pair of ACU purple close toe high heel shoes. Once again, absolutely divine. It was love at first sight, and purple is my FAVORITE color. I just couldn't help it.

Tonight however I got to enjoy some "Real Nashville"....at least that's what I like to call it. Eating at a local restaurant and enjoying some coffee and just soaking it all in was just a small dose of what I hope to eventually get to experience. All of this was exactly what I needed. I'm really beginning to love this place and can't wait to explore it more and more. 

I will have to say this.....People in Tennessee do NOT know how to drive. It is quite annoying and Amanda and I both agree about that. God bless Texas.

"She's a good girl, loves her Momma. Loves Jesus and America too...."

-Thank you John Mayer for re-making this classic song.

BIG Love

So there is this ongoing joke here at the home of the Noah-Wilson's. There is wife number 1, Natalie (the real wife), wife number 2, Ashley (Eric and Natalie's niece who is living with us), and wife number 3, me....

Eric had said earlier last week that he sort of felt like the tv show on HBO called Big Love because he has three women helping out around the house. Now we are alot more different from the actual show...but well you get the point. Let me also throw in that Eric likes to make lots and lots of jokes! With that being said, Eric sometimes calls me "Number 3" and everyone else their respected numbers.

Yesterday as I was getting ready to take some of the kids to the pool, Tristan (the 8 yr old boy) was on the phone with his friend's dad telling him that I was going to take the kids to the pool wanted to invite his friend as well. Seeing how I am new to the family, his friend's dad was like," Who is Benay?" Tristan replied," Oh she is like wife number 3!!" Needless to say the kids had sort of picked up on the whole name calling and had joined in on the fun! Eric, Natalie ,and I thought that the whole thing was super funny! What can I say...we've got alot of love in this house!

Broken In

Week 1...completed! It has been such a great week so far! The family has taken me by the hand to help show me the way around here. I will say however, that who knew that moving to a new state could be so hard! There is so many things that you have to get changed or fixed or filed here in Tennessee to be an "actual" resident! But thankfully I'm getting those things done!

I absolutely adore all of the kids! They have been so great so far and extremely helpful! I feel that I have already started to develop a bond with each of them. 

Early this week I began to think about life and what I would be doing next. What can I say, I am a big picture kind of girl. I had to remind myself numerous times to keep in mind that I am just starting this job that God opened up for me and that I should just be patient, things will come with time. I began to see that yes, I do love what I am doing right now but wonder how exactly all of this will help me in the long run. I am so thankful for the opportunity that has been placed before me and know that God will continue to bless me and show me what I need to do. 

After spending a week here I have been able to see little hints and glimpses of why God did in fact want me to be here in Tennessee. My eyes have been opened to see what all he is calling me to do at the moment and so therefore, I am running with it! At the very beginning of the week I ran across a verse that has been my stronghold for the week, Ephesians 3:14-21. It actually comes from one of my all time favorite Acappella songs. This verse has calmed me when I needed it this week and helped me to gain the faith and trust I need to keep in mind that God knows what he is doing. 

"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever!"

Eph. 3:20-21

Classy Country

Well, I did it. I left the state that I have lived in for the past 22 years and the state that I so dearly love to move to Tennessee to fulfill my dreams. It wasn't easy let me tell you that. As we pulled out of the drive way at my house in Rio I cried. In fact I cried pretty much all the way to Dallas. And then I teared up again as we crossed the Texas/Arkansas line...and it felt so good. My dad decided that since I was moving to a place where I had no idea where anything was, that he would get me a gps system, which needless to say GiGi (Yes, I named the gps system) have been very helpful thus far.

My parents and I arrived in Franklin on Saturday and moved all of my stuff in. I have the best room! My own bathroom, and bedroom (even though the walls are a golden yellow, the bedding is white and the pillows and such are blue...so "siggie",haha but it's what was already here),  my own closet the size of well...it's big enough to hold all of my stuff. Which if you know me that well, I love clothes and shoes so let's just say the the closet is perfect. Tennessee is beautiful! I am already falling in love with this place. I had the opportunity to go to church with my dear little piercey-poo, which was great! Having Amanda up here is such a blessing and she is doing such a great job of making me feel right at home. It is a huge relief to have her up here! Another great thing is having my parents bring me up here. They have been such a great help with everything!

Although I may have left my favorite place in the world, Texas, I will always always always be a Texas girl. You can never take that away from me. I like to think of myself as being classy and country, so you get Classy Country.

"There ain't nothing like the sound of real Country Music....Come on and Turn it Up!!!"

-Ashton Shepperd

Reunited

So, this past weekend was Amy Kay and Legend's (Matt) wedding. It was SO much fun getting to see everyone this weekend and to be a part of Amy Kay and Legend's big day! One of the big highlights from the weekend would most definitely be the rehearsal dinner which took place at the Castle off of I-20. I have always wanted to go in that place so bad, and I finally got the chance to do so. The place was absolutely beautiful! The views, the young little tots playing with swords and wearing crowns and frolicking in the courtyard...it was perfect.
As for the wedding, Amy Kay looked absolutely beautiful; most of us cried, and we realized how easy it is to get out of breath while stomping at the reception, but man it felt so good to do that again! The wedding was perfect and this weekend was absolutely divine!

I was excited for this weekend not only because Amy Kay and Legend were getting hitched, but also because this would be my last time to see some of my friends for a while...well, ok for a month at least. After the wedding, I was able to relax with a few of my favs, Noel, Callie, Shelley, and Shaley while lounging around Shelley's pool till around 2 a.m. It was fabulous. We got to reminisce about the good ole days, talk about the fact that we had to be big girls now, listen to some funny wedding planning stories from Shelley and hear about Callie's fascination and stern belief that the Easter Bunny was real, or should I say, IS real. I love these girls and all of their craziness and darkness. It was good to get one big dose that will hopefully get me through the next few weeks as I embark on my new adventures in Tennessee, which is weird and exciting!

My Siggie Summer

Up until now, this summer I've spent the majority of my time with my two lifesavers, Casey and JuliAnne. Needless to say we have had so much fun together from movies, endless classes at Hendrick, to doing really random "Siggie like" things, and the Bachelorette every Monday night. It has been such a great summer. We've had this ongoing joke between all of us that all I do is hang out with Siggies....well at least this summer. Thus the reason for calling this "my Siggie summer." And it's true for the most part.

This 4th of July weekend was spent relaxing at Heath's lake house. It couldn't have been more perfect. Getting to see these people for one last who-rah was exactly what I needed. Even though my entire upper body aches with soreness from tubing with Jenny,(which I might add that we were quite good, even though we thought we were going to die a couple of times), to laying out with the girls, and taking part in the ginormous slip-n-slide the guys made, to laying in the hammock with Casey and Jenny listening to the ongoing parties on either side of us, then watching the guys shoot off tons of fireworks, and finally ending the night with a great game of ACU charades.....this was the perfect weekend, until....

After some tearsome goodbyes, I was backing out of the driveway in my dad's beautiful Honda Pilot (my dream car for the the longest time) and what did I do...that's right, I backed into a measly little tree that I could literally put both my hands around to describe how big it was. I was almost at the end of the driveway and was so proud of myself for doing such a good job. Of course tears came as I called my dad to tell him the news and there was much laughter afterwards as everyone from the house came out to check the damage. In the end, it wasn't THAT bad.....the 'rents assured me that it was ok. I just don't really expect to be driving the Pilot any time soon.


Happy 4th!....."You were pretty as can be, sitting in the front seat Looking at me, telling me you love me, and your happy to be, With me on the 4th of July!! We sang Stranglehold to the stereo Couldn't take no more of that rock n roll, So we put on a little George Jones and just sang along"
-thank you Shooter Jennings for this amazing patriotic song.

In on a Whim

Towards the end of last semester I told myself that I wanted to start a blog. I could never find the right time to do it though. But when I got my job offer in Tennessee, the time seemed right. I was perfectly fine with starting a whole slew of new things all at the same time. So here it goes...

The last few days have been quite eventful. Let's see, I moved back into my parents' house (only till mid-July), I got to go through the lovely experience of having my wisdom teeth out (which I still look like a chipmunk at the moment and am still quite medicated as well), I started a blog ,and I dyed my hair black...jet black(thanks to Megan and Carly). All of this came in on a whim, but I've enjoyed every single minute of it!

I just finished reading my cousin's latest blog posting (http://ashleygartrell.blogspot.com/). Wow...was pretty much all I could get out. I was completely amazed at what she had said. She had just made my day with her kind words and it was exactly what I needed to hear at the moment. Ashley is my best friend, sister, cousin, role model...and well the list goes on. And to hear her say those words meant the world to me. I cannot even begin to list what all Ashley has done for me, how much she has been there for me, and yes she did help hand sew on beads to my prom dress approximately 20 minutes before prom!! I love this girl and the thing that I love the most is that no matter where we are in our lives, we can both just pick up the phone and talk to each other right where we left off.
So to Ashley, thank you for being my friend and mentor, my sister and my shoulder to cry on. I love you and know that I am just a phone call away! muah!

Well, this is it..

THIS is it. Tomorrow morning I will pack up tubs and suitcases full of clothes and whatnot and finally leave this wonderful little town that I have called home for the past 4 years. Bittersweet? Yes, that's the best way of putting it. I've been told numerous times this week that of all people I should not be leaving this town because I bleed purple and white and genuinely love this school more than most people do. But this is something I feel I have to do, get out. 

I'll be moving to Franklin, Tennessee in mid-July working as the "Family Assistant" to a family up there as well as working as the assistant to the Executive Producer of Zoe. I am so excited and can't wait to see what the Lord has in store! Of course I have some nervousness that comes along with those feelings of excitement, but know that this is what I have been led to do.

Today will be interesting. Telling people bye and packing everything up will most definitely be an emotional roller coaster, but that's just part of it. I love this place and everything it stands for, the people, and the memories. So now I must move on and carry these collected things with me. Well, this is it....it's time for me to keep bumblin' on. (Jamie insisted that I use something with "Bumbles" in my blog. There ya go.)