February 20, 2003
Betcha thought it would never happen, but it has happened. Enjoy yourself... it isn't everyday you get a new update from me!!!!

So, let me fill you in. Over the Christmas holidays, I (among other things) got "reunited" with some old, high school friends I hadn't seen or spoken to in years. I had a really good time with my family, as well. Speaking of family, the pic on the left is my sis and her beau. Aren't they cute??

Classes started back later for me than for most everyone else because I only have class on Monday night, Tuesday night, and two Saturdays this semester. That was pretty cool.

Work is still going strong... I love the teachers I work with, and besides the crazy climate, it's the best place to work EVER!!!

Among the most interesting things I have done this semester have been going to Capstone Casino, going to Casey's surprise birthday party, and taking the LSAT.

By far, my favorite thing so far has been my trip to Texas. Casey's new nephew, Kenny, was born on her birthday, and I went with her to see him. Her two nieces are adorable, as well, and I just had a really good time.

So, now, I am focusing on schoolwork (yeah, right!) and doing my taxes. :) I hope you are having a great semester, and I also hope that you sign my guestbook so I will know you were here! Also, don't forget to vote in the poll right below this.

21 DECEMBER 2002
So, it's been an incredibly long time since I last updated. If you are reading this, you are probably thinking, "Finally!" Well, so am I.

I got to the point where updating kept getting pushed to the bottom of the list of priorities, behind school, class, work, homework, etc. I apologize for the lack of really interesting reading material for most of you. However, if you really need something to read that badly, try a smart person magazine, like Newsweek or Discover. I am really enjoying those right now.

So, here's what I've been up to in the last two months: school, class, work, homework, football, papers, finals, and a trip to Philadelphia! I had a great time in Philly; I got to see all of my friends from the past two summers, experience cold weather, and just relax. It was so much fun.

Side story: when I was in Philadelphia, walking around one day, it was really windy. I felt like I was going to be swept right up off the sidewalk. Then, I looked around and saw lots of people, smaller than me, who seemed to be having no trouble at all staying on the ground. This thoroughly confused me, but Casey speculated that they were more dense than I was. Maybe they just have more practice.

I have a new favorite Christmas song: Dominic the Donkey. If you want to hear it and understand why I love it, click here. It's hilarious!!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

15 OCTOBER 2002
Be sure to take the new poll below, and go vote for Big Al here.

Yeah, it's been a long time. I know. You don't have to keep reminding me. I am trying to stay afloat amidst everything being thrown my way in the matter of school, homework, work, and placements. Thanks for the concern...

Anyway, this update comes after a particularly long and boring time of clicking through web sites and downloading a bunch of stuff for the Math Lab, so if it doesn't make any sense, it's because I am about to fall asleep. I am having trouble staying awake all week long. The weekend is just not long enough to get the rest I want plus catching up on what I missed during the week. Oh, well, I will survive. :)

I had a great time this weekend in Florence. Got to stay with Casey and remember again why I love having her around. [Hey Gobbles, Roxanne, and Jack (Black Magic)] I also got to see Brittany play a couple of games in the volleyball tournament at Northwest Shoals Community College. They did all right, I guess. Then, spent a little more time with Casey before heading back to Tuscaloosa.

Sunday was spent fighting off some kind of sickness that was trying to take over my body. I won, thanks to Stacy's pills and the afternoon nap I took.

This weekend is Homecoming. We play Ole Miss. The next week is Tennessee; I can't wait. This is our year to beat them, and I am going to be there to see it!

Other pertinent news about me include that I am going to Philly for a week after finals... I won't be graduating from grad school until December... I got a new car... and I bought a huge box of Sour Patch Kids at Target the other day. Okay, the last part isn't very pertinent, but it's cool! Have a wonderful, awesome, no bad, very good day!

29 AUGUST 2002
Phew! I just got through updating my Links page, my About Me page, and the poll at the bottom, and I am still going. Maybe this update will be good...

Well, school has started back, and I am already tired of it. My classes are boring, there is too much homework and READING to do for them, and I don't have time to do anything but class, homework, and work. However, I am making time on the weekends, because I am going to all of the Bama games this year (home and away). Maybe I will keep you posted on how that goes!

I am living off-campus now, and I realized something the other day. I had just cleaned the spiders and spiderwebs off the "porch" the day before when I saw them: larger and closer to the door webs, with larger than before spiders. Where do they come from? I don't know. However, I do know that they are annoying, and I am going to get something to spray there so they won't come back. Aaaggghhhh!

So, anyway, beyond that, I cannot go, because I have to go scarf down some lunch and head to work, then to class, then back to work. This will probably last until 10pm. Fun day, huh? Anyway, let me know how you are doing, and, please, take the poll. I like to know what you think! Bye!

19 JULY 2002
Yep, it's an update. Your eyes aren't fooling you. It's finally here.

On a sidebar (and I hope there will only be one), I really like the song that's playing right now. I always want to call it "Maybe" or "Let it Go", but the name of it is something else that I can't remember. If you know the one I am talking about, sign my guestbook and let me know.

So, yeah. This summer has been busy and fun. I have practically been the supervisor, although my official title is Summer Missionary (same as Lindsey and Denis). At times, I feel like things could be going a lot more smoothly, but I am trying my best. Everyone at Trinity seems to be pleased, so I suppose all is well. The kids are having a good time, so I know we are doing something right.

Monday is the first day of day camp for us. We have one week of camp, then we take 25 of the kids to Virginia for a week of "country life". The trip was a lot of fun last year, and I am looking forward to it this year. Then, when we get back from VA, I have one more week in Philly until I leave for home. It doesn't seem like I have been here as long as I really have!

Now, I am starting to think (in the back of my mind) about starting back to school. Honestly, I am not looking forward to it. I am looking forward to seeing you all again... getting to use the AC whenever I want... my job (yes, I really do like my job. I am one of the 0.5%)... sweet tea at every restaurant... having time to update more frequently... well, you get the picture.

I hope that this summer has been as fulfilling for you as it has been for me. Much-deserved props go out to my dad, mom, and sis for taking my furniture to Tuscaloosa today for me. Thanks so much!!! Take care, and call me if you get a chance. I am in this wonderful city until August 9. I will probably return to Tuscaloosa on August 13 or 14 (one week before classes start). See you then!

11 JUNE 2002
Whew! Finally, I get the time to update. It won't be too long this time, but I wanted to let you all know that I am in Philadelphia and having a great time.

I drove up (with my dad) to Baltimore last Sunday, and Monday, Dad flew home while I drove on to Harrisburg, PA, for orientation. Orientation was a good time for preparation and meeting other summer missionaries across Pennsylvania. We all had a good time growing in God together.

Wednesday, orientation was over, and we headed off to Philly... we being my two partners, Denis Tricoche and Lindsey Ford, Pastor Jeff, and me. It was so good to get into town and see everybody again! I couldn't wait to get to work.

I am living with Cady Erickson, Carrie Taylor, and Carrie's 3-year-old son Isaac right now. Cady was my supervisor last summer, and it is so good to get to talk to her at night (or whenever). We had a great time together (with Elizabeth) last summer, so I know we will get along well this summer!

So far, we have already gone to two elementary schools to work in the classrooms with the kids, and that was great. The kids here, although very energized, are awesome! They never cease to amaze me. We have also started planning out our activities for the rest of the summer, and it looks as though we will stay plenty busy. So, I am excited about diving into it all. Pray that God will use and bless all of us greatly this summer.

Well, that's all for now. I will try to update as frequently as possible, but we will see how that goes... you can all contact me, however, by calling my cell... it's a local Tuscaloosa number, so it won't cost you. However, if you want to make me love you forever, you can send snail mail to the church:

CYP
c/o Trinity Baptist Church
2720 Poplar St.
Philadelphia, PA 19130

I hope to hear from you soon!

23 MAY 2002
Lucky you!!! You were finally privileged enough to find an update when you visited my web page. I know they have been scarce, but thanks for persevering. Hopefully, I won't let you down.

Anyway, in the month that I have not been updating, I have done many things. First, I had a great weekend before Finals week... went to a graduation party at Janie's (a friend from work), went to see Spider-Man, and did other fun things that I apparently cannot remember right now. :)

Finals went smoothly, and I got all A-'s and above in my classes this semester. This was my best semester here, and I kind of like to think of it as "going out with a bang". Thursday of finals week, Dad came (along with Ryan Harmon) bright and early to move me out of Rose Towers, my home for three (long) years. I ran a few errands later that morning, then headed home myself.

Friday, I went to school with Mom to help her out at Field Day. It was good times for all, and the kids were worn out!

Since then, I have been to a lingerie shower, spent time with Mom for Mother's Day, been a bum, gone to lunch with Leslie a couple of times, hung out at OfficeMax, cleaned house, and caught up on almost every TV show with a season finale. Good times.

Now, I have Brittany's graduation tonight with lots of family coming into town. Then, I am going home with my grandparents to spend a few days in the Chattanooga area before leaving for the summer. I will probably head back to Tuscaloosa Wednesday or Thursday to tie up some loose ends with the Graduate School and chill with whoever's there, then I have a wedding to attend on June 1, and I leave June 2! I am very excited, if you didn't know. I will definitely update at least once before I go, so don't pester me about it (whatever!). Have a fun and safe Memorial Day weekend... aren't we supposed to be finding out about a Joey Tribbiani film about now? ;) Ciao

25 APRIL 2002
Well, I am not hot anymore. Now, I am tired. And stressed. But, hey! That's okay. Because soon it will be over. All of it. I am GRADUATING!!!!! Whew.

Anyway, the air got fixed at work. And, I got to drive Mom's car for a few days while she was in Las Vegas with Dad at the NCTM conference. That was nice.

So, why am I tired? I had a 10-page short story due Tuesday, but since my computer broke (it won't even come on!), I had to work in computer labs. Stacy W let me come to the CW and work there when the other lab closed, and I ended up staying until 4:30 am. Yuck! Then, I had to finish my journal assignment stuff before my Wednesday meeting with my Creative Writing teacher. Then, I had to drive to B'ham and pick up my parents at the airport, go home with them and get my car, and drive back to Tuscaloosa last night. Then, I had to work on my group critique that was due this morning. I only slept about three hours!

So, then, why am I stressed? Tonight is the BCM semi-formal and Senior Recognition night. I got a letter in the mail today saying that if I didn't meet with an A&S advisor TODAY, I wouldn't graduate. So, I met with her (although I didn't have the time- I needed it to study for my test at 3 pm), and she said I had to get a form filled out because she didn't think that I had taken the required "math-related" electives that I was supposed to. I tried to point out the MANY "math-related" courses that I had taken, but she wanted the form, not my word. So, after my test, I traipsed over to Gordon Palmer to get it filled out. I also have a group technology assignment to do this weekend with Josh and Christy, and I have ten notebook "learning task" assignments to do for next week. Add to that a journal critique for SPE, a summary and portfolio for EN, and other various things for my Math Ed classes, and you get one stressed-out girl! I will get through it, though. And, then it's smooth sailing!

I can't wait to be done with finals and just relax for a little bit. I am going to get together with family and go to a couple of weddings before I head up to Philly for the summer. I think I might also try to squeeze in CityFest because Martina McBride and Steve Holy will be there. We will see.

So, that's me in a nutshell. Write or call me if you get a chance. I would love to hear from you!

17 APRIL 2002
I am hot. Really, really hot. I hate coming to work now because it is so miserable in here. I get to the end of the day, and all I want to do is sit in my apartment and cool off. Yuck.

But, enough about that. I had fun this past weekend with Brittany, the endlessly-sleeping sister. It's too bad she couldn't stay longer... hint, hint. ;)

Going home (briefly) this weekend for a dentist appointment and to take my parents to the airport. Then, I get to have a car with air conditioning for a whole three days! Woo-hoo!!! It would be more fun if I were going to Las Vegas with them, but, oh, well. I got to go to NYC without them.

As a final note, I am ready for this semester to be over. Being hot plus not wanting to do any more homework and stuff has caught up with me. At least there are only three weeks left (one regular, one dead, and one of finals) after this one. I can't wait.

Anywho, I hope that all is going well with each and every one of you. As soon as I get un-busy, I will try to catch up with you all. In the meantime, stay cool (and I mean that in the best air-conditioning sense of the word)!

10 APRIL 2002
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DAD!!!

I hope you figured out that today is my dad's birthday. If you didn't, something is wrong with you. :)

Anyway, this week has been fine except for the fact that it has been so dang hot! The air conditioners all over campus have united to strike against cooling us in this hot season. At least the Rose Towers air conditioners stayed out of it. They are only window units, though...

Good times last night when Ronnie Brewer, former Senior Campus Minister extraordinaire, spoke at Discovery. By dog, I've missed him! I got some crazy pictures of goofy, reunited people then ate at the loudest restaurant in T-town with Stacy and Ginny. Good times, good times.

This past weekend was a doozie. Friday night, a group of us, including the illustrious Dana Roe, went to see Panic Room, which was a very good movie. We knew it was going to be good, though, because all of the trailers played before it came on were good. Then, we rented The Last Castle, which also is a very good movie. I would recommend it to anyone. I also rented An Affair to Remember for me... sigh.

Saturday, I slept in (since I got to bed at 3am), got up and watched Fast Times at Ridgemont High on TNT, my favorite television station on the weekends. Then, I got ready and ran a couple of errands, then went to Audrey's wedding. It was beautiful, and she was beautiful. The reception lasted a while, but it was really nice. Later, a big group of us went out to eat at Ruby Tuesday, and I had a REAL six dollar burger!

Sunday morning, I went to church at Calvary, and Sunday night, our BCM ensemble sang at Duncanville Baptist Church. Afterwards, I got groceries, went home, and crashed. And, that brings us to today. Whew.

I hope you all have a great week... I know my weekend will be good; my sister is finally coming to visit!

31 MARCH 2002
Woo-hoo, AN UPDATE!!!!! And you thought I wasn't going to do one... well, here it is!!

New York City is the greatest place on earth (next to Philadelphia, and-- I'm hoping-- Seattle). I would SO move there in a heartbeat if I was done with school and had a degree to teach already. I think it would be totally awesome to teach in one of the PS's there!

So, needless to say, I had a FANTASTIC time in NYC! We got to do most everything we wanted to (plus some extras). As Meredith put it, Wednesday was the best day of our lives! We were on the Today Show, were in the audience for three tapings of Maury Povich, ate at Planet Hollywood, and saw a play on Broadway. All in all, fun times for everyone!

I had such a great time that I didn't want to leave. It was nice to lay around at home once I got there, though... went to see I Am Sam (which, by the way, is a very good movie) with the fam at the dollar theater Friday night... got to shop some and eat wings from Jefferson's Saturday night... and got to dress up and go to church and see everybody this morning for Easter, plus learn about God and His amazing love and forgiveness for us all. Yes, kids, I had a good spring break. If only it would last a few months longer (and offer me unlimited monetary resources)!

Well, it's off to bed for me now, as soon as I get all my stuff unpacked. Hope you are all doing as well as I am. I LOVE NEW YORK!!!

13 MARCH 2002
Welcome to Update Central... no, wait, I am ALMOST the worst one of us about updating... but, I won't mention any names, Bill! Anyway, I am glad that you all saw fit to visit my page when an update wasn't even likely. It is thanks to Stacy going to New York and leaving her spot at work open that I am even able to find the time for this.

I got to go to the wonderful land of Killen, AL, this past weekend... for the first time, no matter what anyone may think. It was great to spend time with Casey, Mary Ann, and others, and it was good to meet Gobbles, Harley, Meredith, Dee, Buck (again), Hannah, TJ, Dot E. Snoddy, Brother David, and anyone else I might have left out! I got to eat good food, play fun cards, and shop in cool places! All in all, I had a great time!

This week has been all right... tomorrow is PI-Day, and I think I get to have TWO celebrations for it! Yea! Just kidding, but I AM kind of excited that we are having a semi-party in my CSE 401/406 class! Ya-hoo for pi!!!

This weekend, I am keeping some kids and basically chilling. It's my last weekend before SPRING BREAK... more specifically, NEW YORK CITY!!!! I am so excited; I can't wait. And, I am pretty sure that I am going to have a fantastic time!

Anyway, it's time to go. Feel lucky that you got an update in the middle of the week. Bye!

01 MARCH 2002
Well, it's about time for an update, huh? I know I have been slacking, but I had to. I was just too, too busy to make time for it. But, I am not as busy now, so here it is! Be happy!

The past two weeks have been pretty eventful... last weekend, I went home to do laundry and study for the GRE. Then, I came back, shopped a little, and studied a lot more. That was really exciting. I kept the studying thing up until Tuesday night... my test was Wednesday morning. It went well, I suppose, and I am glad that I don't have to worry about it any more.

Wednesday night was fun, fun, fun basketball night. S-E-C! S-E-C! That's an enthralling chant I learned at the game! :) You've gotta love beating Auburn, getting the Iron Bowl trophy back, and becoming SEC champions all in one night! I know I sure did.

This weekend has become my "do little to nothing and have a blast doing it" weekend. Those are always nice. Especially when they are much-needed. And I needed it.

Take the new poll, and have a fantastic week!

15 FEBRUARY 2002
Well, Mardi Gras was great fun! I got to meet many of Stacy's family members, and I also learned why she loses her voice every time she goes home for a visit. I caught lots of beads, some of which I suppose I will have to give Brittany since she asked, "Did you bring me back any beads?" And, I said yes, so I can't back out of it now. :)

So, anyway, this week was hectic. I slept much less than I usually do, and much much less than I needed to. I will catch up some this weekend, I guess. I still love going to RISE on Friday's. Ms. Becky's 5-year-old class is fantastic! I get to be there during music time, and that just gets my day going wonderfully (even when I oversleep)!

Tonight, I am going to see John Q, then over to Ginny's to play some Rook. It should be interesting, because Ginny has never played, but whatever. I am sure she will pick up on it pretty quickly! Tomorrow, I am headed to Birmingham to watch Brittany play some volleyball. I hope she plays well... she should, though, because she has a volleyball scholarship to college! :)

Well, here I go. Hope you all have a great weekend (or week, depending on when you read this)!

7 FEBRUARY 2002
Imagine yourself in a world where there are only two types of people: those whom you know, and those whom you don't. No, wait, you already live in that world. Nevermind.

Anyway, I live in a world where there are many types of people. And I try to like most of them, although it doesn't always work.

Take, for example, the people who cut you off when you are driving. Or, the people who walk three abreast on the sidewalk and won't double-up, so you have to step off the sidewalk into the mud. Or, the people who stop in the middle of the aisle at the store and stand there forever trying to decide between cut green beans or french green beans. They are aggravating!!!

Anyway, enough of that. I am headed to New Orleans this weekend with Stacy for a little Mardi Gras fun. I can't wait. Hope your weekend promises to be as much fun as mine!

Until I see you again, have a good one (one being "one length of time until I see you again")!

31 JANUARY 2002
When you get to Wednesday night and realize that the only times you have stopped since Monday morning were to sleep, you get a little frustrated. Or, at least, I do. Even though everything's been going fine.

Work wears me out, mostly because I am on my feet the entire time, walking all over helping people. The helping part, I like, but the walking all over the place, that I don't like so much. If only they came to me...

Anyway, my classes aren't anything to scream about. There's rarely any homework (except for in one class), and the classes themselves are pretty boring (except for one). The one class that actually makes me happy and I enjoy doing the work for is my elective class, Intro to Creative Writing. It is so much fun, and it's incredibly interesting. I sure am glad that I signed up for that and not something else that might have been easy and boring.

Yesterday (Wednesday) was the best day of the week so far. Work was mundane, but then four people (three of them hailing from Killen, AL) came with me to lunch at the BCM. Stacey, my roommate, was the fourth. Kam, Andy, Daniel, Stacey, Ginny, and I had a good time laughing and cutting up. Most all promised to come back, so Wednesday's are forming themselves into my favorite day of the week! I also got to go to my first Bama Basketball game of the season, and I had a great time. So, all in all, it was a good day!

Well, I am tired of typing, and I have errands to run, so I will end with this: If you were stranded on a desert island and had your choice of either a cell phone or a computer with internet connection, would you realize that it was only a dream and that you can't possibly have either one on a desert island where you are stranded?

27 JANUARY 2002
Well, I just got back from seeing A Beautiful Mind with Ginny, Tracy, Chrystal, and Andy. It was good. Really good. If you haven't seen it, you should. And that's all I have to say about that.

So, this weekend was fun but a little strange for me. I went home Thursday night, considering that I don't have work OR class on Friday's this semester. Doing that threw everything off... I kept thinking I was a day ahead of everyone else. Weird...

Anyway, Friday morning I went to Mom's school to fix something on her computer, then to Dad's school (and "fixed" something on his computer), then to lunch with Leslie. I then spent the afternoon at OfficeMax, chatting with Les, buying some things that I needed, and basically just chilling. Kevin Williams came in, who I haven't seen since freshman year, and spent over an hour at his house talking and catching up with him.

Friday night, went out with the fam, and Saturday I spent the whole day with Mom. We went to eat a late lunch and rented Crazy/Beautiful to watch at home. When it was over, I drove back to Tuscaloosa, listening to the Alabama-Kentucky game while driving. I got to Ginny's for the last two minutes, and boy were they good! ROLL TIDE!

Today was leisurely, starting with a great worship service at Calvary, and ending with talking to Cady, my supervisor from Philadelphia. Things are going to be so much different there this summer, considering that I will pretty much be the supervisor!

Anyway, I am done. Hope you all have a FANTASTIC week!

20 JANUARY 2002
YEA!!!!! An update! I know you are just as excited as I am about it. Yeah. Right.

Anyway, I have been having a great time this weekend. Friday night, Ginny, Bill, and I went to see Black Hawk Down. It was good. Then, Saturday I spent the entire day just lounging around (which I needed to do), then got ready and went with Ginny to Birmingham to meet Casey. We shopped a little, then went to see A Beautiful Mind, but it was sold out. All of the other movies that we considered seeing were sold out as well, so we opted to go eat instead. So, we took off down Highway 280 in search of a suitable restauraunt. Shogun won, and we went in for some dining fun!

I rode back with Casey to Tuscaloosa because she was staying with me, and we went over to Kam's for a little while before coming to my apartment. I had never been to Kam's apartment, so it was cool to see his "pad".

This morning, Casey and I went to Calvary's 11:00 service, then headed back to my apartment because I was cooking lunch. Bill, Ginny, and Andy came over to eat with us, and we talked and watched TV for a while afterwards. Thanks to Ginny for bringing the yummy brownies for dessert!

Anyway, then everybody left around 2:30 p.m., and I vegged out some more. I played around on the internet until I found the best flights to New York over spring break, then booked mine and Casey's flights. NYC, here we come! Woohoo!!! I can't wait!

So, yeah, take the new poll, and have a great week!

14 JANUARY 2002
And, we are back.

For those of you who didn't know (like my mother whom I know I told), I went to Huntsville this weekend with Ginny and Stacy. We stayed at Ginny's house and had a fantastic time! The Moy Family was very good about ensuring that we were well taken care of. Thanks so much! Also, thanks to Ginny for inviting me to celebrate your birthday with you! I had a great time!

On the ride back from Huntsville, I tried my best to stay awake, but I failed. I probably slept an hour and a half out of the two and a half hour trip! Sorry about that, Ginny and Stacy! When I got back to my apartment, I spent the entire evening playing on the internet and watching Never Been Kissed. Woohoo!

Anyway, I am going to go now. Today is the first day of work, and I ended up getting to be monitor for a while. Fun, fun times for me. Yeah, right! But, really, I have to go, but I leave one note for Casey (who also fits the description): "Mr. Coolson rocks my world!"

I'm out. Bye.

11 JANUARY 2002
The Weekend Update: hope it lasts ya!

Well, it's been a fun, "do nothing unless you absolutely have to" four weeks, but it inevitably had to come to an end. And today it did.

That's right, kids. I had class. And not just one class, but FOUR classes- each which lasted at least one hour. Don't teachers know that they are only supposed to keep you for like 15 minutes on the first day? I guess they didn't get that memo...

Honestly, though, I liked all of my classes. Fortunately, I know at least one person in every class (somebody to call in case I miss class). I sure do hate attendance policies. Oh, well. It's my last semester; the least I can do is go to class most of the time. :)

Anyway, today after Women's Lunch at the BCM (and City Cafe), Ginny, Stacy, and I are headed up to Huntsville, AL, to celebrate Ginny's birthday with her family. It promises to be fun times for all. Road Trip!

So, yeah, don't be expecting an update until at least Sunday night, because there most definitely will not be one. Have a fantastic weekend, and don't forget: pigeons come back as bums that live on the streets.

8 JANUARY 2002
Ahhh... another update. Refreshing, isn't it? I hope so.

Well, I am back in Tuscaloosa, thanks to Mom and Dad who helped me move Sunday afternoon. In case any of you were thinking about living on campus here at Alabama, my suggestion is DON'T unless you want someone dictating when you can and cannot live in and have access to your own things. Suffice it to say that I officially HATE Residential Life and will be moving "out from under their watchful eye" as soon as possible.

On a lighter note, I am all unpacked and loving my new stuff. I forgot to get coffee filters yesterday, so I have to wait on my morning coffee, but I am enjoying most everything else already. My Alabama blanket that Grandmother and Papa gave me is very fun, and I finally figured out a way to fold it just right. Yea for me!!

Well, I have to go. I have to finish getting ready before I go eat Chinese with Ginny for lunch. I also have to buy books and groceries, pay some bills, and clean out my entertainment center. Fun, huh? Yeah, you just keep thinking that. :) Have a fantastic day!

2 JANUARY 2002
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! ROLL TIDE!!! and WHATEVER ELSE YOU MIGHT WANT TO YELL!!!

Well, I just got back from a couple of fun-filled days in Tuscaloosa. No, really, they weren't filled with fun, but I did have some fun. Ginny is a great hostess and fun person to lay around all day long and watch TV and movies with. Bill is also pretty good company. :)

New Year's Eve was spent shopping, running errands, going to the doctor, going out to eat, playing Trivial Pursuit, and watching Friends. Ginny won Trivial Pursuit, but not until after missing this question: What did the Iowa State Cardinals change their mascot to after the state was devastated with natural storms in 1895? Bill and I thought that was hilarious! But, I guess if you know something, but it just won't come to you, there's nothing you can do about it. I hate it when that happens. I hate it more when I think I know something and it's on the tip of my tongue and I get really frustrated trying to come up with it, only to find out I was all wrong in the first place!

Well, that's about all I have to say. I will see most all of you back in Tuscaloosa on Sunday (if you are there), because that's when I am coming! Be good, and don't do anything I wouldn't do!

25 DECEMBER 2001
Merry Christmas!!! Yea, it's Christmas! Jesus is here (of course, He's been here a while), and we are celebrating it! Presents are always fun, too.

I don't know what all of you do for Christmas, but my family lays around all day long. It is actually very comparable to what I have been doing for the last twelve days (since my surgery). I am feeling much better except for the fact that my mother keeps this house colder than I keep my apartment (if one is able to imagine that). My fingers are turning into icicles as I type.

We have been watching the classic Christmas movies, which my sister informed us all were boring and stupid. Kids. They just don't appreciate the finer things of life... Hehehe. I love It's a Wonderful Life and Scrooge (Dad's favorite version of A Christmas Carol).

Well, now it's time to go do some more lying around. Maybe I will play my dad in another game of Trivial Pursuit and beat him again. We are currently tied 1-1, but when he won, I had all my pieces, and when I won, he didn't. So, I have the bragging rights. Anywho, have a very Merry Christmas (and don't forget that Thursday is my birthday)!

16 DECEMBER 2001
So, yeah. It has been an interesting week and a half since I last updated. No, I haven't dropped off the face of the earth, nor have I just forgotten about my website. There was studying for finals, then taking finals, then more studying, then more taking, then packing, coming home, and surgery. And then it all stopped.

For those of you who don't know about the surgery, don't worry about it; I'm fine. And for those of you who do, well, I am still fine. I didn't realize how much of my energy would be consumed with this whole mess, though. I mean, I get my heart racing just trying to stand up now. It's exhilarating. No, really, it isn't. But you catch my drift.

Anyway, since I wasn't sure how I was going to feel after the surgery (bad), I got all of my Christmas shopping done before finals. It's nice not to have to worry about going out and buying presents now. I just have to get them wrapped...

Congrats to the graduates (Ginny and Michelle, specifically)! Good luck on getting jobs and joining the real world as independent adults! I will definitely be praying for you!

Well, I am going to go now... I am kind of tired. It seems that all I am capable of doing after surgery is sit around, sleep, and watch TV. If only we had real cable instead of only 11 channels... but that's just wishful thinking. BYE!!!

05 DECEMBER 2001
What a fun weekend I had! Friday, I went shopping with "The Stace" and got a few hairs cut, then later that night we (along with Ginny, Bill, and Stephanie) went to see Spy Game. I liked it. Brad Pitt is so hot!! Jennifer Aniston is one lucky girl...

Saturday, I slept in (fun, fun, fun), and just chilled at the apartment until around 3 p.m., when I left to go do some more shopping. Only, I couldn't go, because I had a flat tire. So, Ginny and Stacy came over with Stacy's air compressor and I blew up my tire and drove to Wal-Mart to have it fixed. We dropped it off and went on our merry way! You know, I really like Pier One a whole lot. We also went to Books-a-Million, Circuit City, Office Max, Old Navy, and Wal-Mart. And, it was fun. I especially had a good time trying on hats (toboggans and such) at Old Navy-- they have some really cute ones!

My car was more messed up than just a flat tire, so I had to leave it at Wal-Mart overnight while I waited to talk to Dad about what to do. So, Ginny offered to be my chauffeur because we had the same things going on that night and the next morning. So, after all the shopping, we went to Stephanie's for the choir Christmas party/ rehearsal. It was fun with good food, singing, and football. Afterwards, I got to watch Pretty Woman, one of my all-time favorite movies. Good times for all!!!!

Sunday, I got to get up early and get ready to go sing at Coker Baptist Church. Ginny picked me up, and we were off. Coker is a little country church with lots of older people. They all appreciated us singing there, and one elderly woman even told me that she had such a good time "just watching my beautiful hair". I don't get it, but whatever... I spent some more of my time at Wal-Mart waiting on my car again, got groceries, and went home and chilled. It was nice. I got to talk to Casey, too, so that made it even better!

Monday and Tuesday were a hassle trying to get my CSE Portfolio together that I put off until the last minute, but Tuesday night (after I turned in my portfolio and had some free time) was a barrel of laughs. Bill was oh-so-amusing with his elegant "falling backwards in the chair I was leaning back in" act, and the dinner conversations about talking to yourself was a hoot. Stacy continued to entertain us with her singing tree at her apartment, but Ginny won the prize for receiving the best and longest laugh. Suffice it to say that her recycled toilet water was getting a little old.

Anyway, that's all for now. Hope you all have a great (dead) week!

27 NOVEMBER 2001
Well, now that the Thanksgiving holidays are over, what do you have to show for yourself? I ate plenty of good food, although I wouldn't say that I ate too much. I also spent the entire day Friday shopping with Brittany, Mom, and Grandmother, as we do every year. Except my aunt Julie wasn't there because her family was on vacation at Disney World. So, that part wasn't the same, but everything else was... pretty much.

Saturday night, since my dad and sister had gone to my other grandparents' house to work at the BBQ place, Mom and I drove home from Chattanooga. In the middle of the storm. Yeah, it was craziness. But, we made it. Sunday morning was an adventure as I was headed out the door for church and couldn't find my keys. So, I searched all over, but to no avail. Finally, I found my sister's key to her car, so I just took it to church. Later that afternoon, after a thorough search of my house and calls to many people, my dad found my keys in his truck, underneath the passenger seat, hanging from the frame. Weird, huh?

So, needless to say, I had to stay at home and wait on them to get back late that night. Mom and I watched a couple of movies on TV, I got my Christmas tree down from the attic, and just pretty much hung out. I drove back early yesterday morning because I had to be at work at 8. I just love getting up at 5:15 a.m.; don't you?

Anyway, yesterday was about as gross of a day as you can imagine, with it being rainy, hot, and really humid. I hate that kind of weather the most! And the fact that the Math lab feels like an incinerator doesn't help things at all. Oh, well, I guess I will manage... it's not like it really matters if my hair gets a little frizzy.

I hope that you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving, and I hope that you are all getting in the Christmas spirit. I am trying, but I just can't seem to make myself listen to the Christmas music while it's 75 degrees Fahrenheit outside! Hopefully, a cold front will come in and set up camp, because
I'm dreaming of a white Christmas!!!!

21 NOVEMBER 2001
HAPPY TURKEY DAY!!!!!
Yes, that's right, kids. It's time for turkey, dressing, cranberry sauce, and football. Oh, and don't forget the shopping, because there will be tons of it! This year, though, there will be little to none of what has happened in years past: I have already made my Christmas wish list out to deter myself from reading the sales papers and deciding from those what it is I think I need. I am pretty bad about that. But, I really do love looking at the sales papers!!!

Anyway, I am upset that I didn't go to the game Saturday, but I am more excited that we stomped auburn, so it's all good. As my dad would say, "at least you saved your money and won rather than spending it and losing". I do wish that I had known the Cadillac would be in the shop for most of the day... I would have definitely gone to the game!! Oh, well, hindsight is always 20/20.

So, I am off to Oxford and then on to Chattanooga this afternoon. I am looking forward to the ride from Oxford because I won't have to drive. Love ya, Dad!!

Well, I suppose I will go now. Don't expect an update until at least Sunday, because I won't have internet access until then. Whatever will I do???

Be good, drive carefully, and don't eat too much of the turkey (Bill)!

ROLL TIDE

15 NOVEMBER 2001
So, it turns out that I am probably NOT going to go to Auburn this weekend. I just don't think I need to afford the ticket. I am still trying to save money for a new vehicle. So, it looks like a lonely weekend of studying in Tuscaloosa for me. Good times for all, huh?

Anyway, it is Thursday, and I am so thankful. I was recently quoted that Friday is my favorite day of the week, but I think that Thursday at 5 pm is really my favorite. Friday's aren't bad days for me, so when classes are over Thursday, the fun begins!   :)

I hope that you have wonderful plans for the weekend. Oh! Thanks to all who prayed that I wouldn't get sick; I didn't. So, anyway, be good and ROLL TIDE!!!!

13 NOVEMBER 2001
ROLL TIDE !!!Yea!!!! We finally won! Except we still didn't play well. Oh, well. Maybe we will play well this Saturday and beat Auburn. I hope so.

In other news, it looks like I am trying to catch a cold. I hope I don't. Maybe it will be too fast for me. Pray for that.

Anyway, my classes are going well. I am ready to be done with them, though. They are not very fun. I am taking one class next semester that I expect to be fun: Intro to Creative Writing. My friend Cindy took it and said she really liked it, so I am hoping I will, too!

Well, I am really tired (and somewhat busy), so I am going to go now.

Have a fantastic day!!!

08 NOVEMBER 2001
Thanks to all who have taken my survey so far. I want to let you all know that I am not basing my decision too heavily on the top answers; I just wanted to get input from the people who know me best. Of course I am waiting on God to show me His way, but I appreciate your concern.

In other news, I am baby-sitting tonight. You gotta love those Roe kids. Brent and Dana are going to see a movie, so I get to play with Noah (4) and Morgan (1). Yea!!! I am sure that I will have my fill of "watch how fast I can run" and Snow White to keep me amused for quite some time!

Saturday is the last Tuscalooosa home game- vs. Mississippi State. I hope we win. It would be nice. To see a win. In the second half of the season. But, whatever. It'll happen if we play well. It won't if we don't give it our best.

ROLL TIDE !!!

05 NOVEMBER 2001
So, it was a fun-filled weekend. I just wish it was filled with a little more sleep. Oh, well.

Many props go out to Big Mike (Stacy's dad) for the fantastic Jambalaya and fajitas. He cooked dinner after the game and lunch Sunday that rivals anything I have ever eaten! Thanks so much, Big Mike!!! I won't forget your cooking any time soon.

The rest of the weekend was spent playing games at "the house" (Bonnie, Lydia, and Tiffany's), going to the Alabama game, watching 7 overtimes and Air Force One, going to church, and grocery shopping. It was great.

I think I spent over two hours shopping in Wal-Mart yesterday. It was crazy mad alone time in a very crowded place! I got everything I needed, though, so it's all good. (I also got a new citrus shampoo that smells yummy!)

Anyway, it's time to go to class. Have a great week, and don't forget: green means go; red means STOP; but yellow means check your rearview mirror and your peripheral vision!

30 OCTOBER 2001
I had a great weekend at home. There was much rest involved, as well as Wal-Mart shopping and watching volleyball.

Saturday night, Brittany and I went to see Jeepers Creepers at the dollar theater. It was so scary throughout... Brittany was digging her nails into my arm and everybody in the theater was screaming and stuff. It was great. But the ending was a horrible let-down. Incredibly bad. But, the rest of the movie was worth it.

Anyway, Sunday, the whole family went to early church. I got to see Leslie, so that was good. I miss her. After church, the fam went to eat together at Taco Bell. Good times for all. I spent the rest of the day laying around pretending to be "leaving soon". It didn't really happen until 6:45 p.m. Oh, well.

Yesterday and today I went to Northside. I taught 8th grade math today in 4th block. It was fun. Those kids are really good. Today was also my last day to go out there. I am going to miss it, but I won't miss the 30-40 minute commute!

So, yeah. It's back to the daily grind tomorrow. Maybe I will get some fun stuff thrown in there with everything. That would be nice. Have a great week!!!!

26 OCTOBER 2001
Whew! I must have had some Rolaids this week because it has been a RELIEF.

Okay, I didn't really have Rolaids, but I did have a more relaxing week. It was nice.

I went to Northside High School Monday morning and yesterday (Thursday) afternoon. I really like the school and my teacher. The school is small, so it is very relaxed, but the students are good and they are learning. Yesterday, I got to stop at the Roe household (my campus minister and family) and spend time with Dana and the kids (Noah, 4, and Morgan,1). We went to McDonald's and I played with Noah in the Playland thing. It was fun; I have never climbed all the way through one before, but the rules at the McDonald's made it clear that it was perfectly all right.

Then, last night, I went over to my friend Michelle's to watch Friends and a movie. We had fun, but we were both tired so it wasn't perfect. Just kidding; Michelle is really cool and I love her lots! Seriously, though, we were both really tired. I don't let myself fall asleep during movies I haven't seen, but she was dozing off halfway through!

So, anyway, this afternoon I am headed to Oxford. Maybe I will get a little R&R, but probably not since Brittany has a Regional volleyball tournament Saturday. It's all good, though. I will at least get to do some laundry and spend time with the fam. And that's what's really important.

So, have a great weekend. And sign my guestbook so I will know you were here.

16 OCTOBER 2001
Finally, my frantic weeks of go, go, go are slowing down! I am thankful for the wonderful weekend I had of rest, relaxation, and studying. It was much needed.

Anyway, Casey is coming this weekend, and I am glad for that. I have missed her so much (I haven't seen her since the middle of May), so it will be great to catch up with one of my best friends in the world!

This week starts my high school placement. I go to meet my teacher, Mr. Haverkampf, at Northside High School today. He teaches Algebra. That should be fun. The only problem is that Northside is 30 minutes from the University. Yuck! I hope I like him and the classes, because, if I don't, then the whole thing will be most unpleasant. But, hey, "you can't have no in your heart", so I am going to be optimistic about it. :)

Alabama football has gotten me a little down and depressed. I don't know why they feel the need to play terribly in the 4th quarter, but that's what happens. Oh, well. Maybe we'll do better this week!

So, anyway, I am going to get back to work so I can earn the /hour I am making for being here! Have a great day!

P.S. Updated the links page. It now includes my "FUN Site of the Day" and fewer dead links (Casey took off her page). Bye!

01 OCTOBER 2001
Well, nothing makes you more mad than typing out a pretty long update followed by your computer freezing and not saving a word of it.

So, here is the condensed version of the aforementioned update. It definitely won't be as long as the first one (which you never saw anyway), but I am certainly NOT typing it all out again, nor can I remember everything I said the first time.

So, anyway, here goes! I have been so busy lately that I hardly have any time to myself. With working every morning, classes every afternoon and one evening, BCM stuff two evenings a week, and homework up to my ears, I barely have time to breathe! But, I am managing, and I console myself with the reassurance that after December 12 (when all of my Fall Finals are over), I will be through with my degree!

Now, that's not to say that I will be graduating in December, because I won't. Next semester, I am taking some education courses to jump-start my Alternative Master's in Secondary Education, totally on the University. Thank you Dr. Sorenson (Presidential Scholarship) and 2PLUS-Plan!

I am so glad that I still have a choice every weekend of what to do. Mostly, my choice winds up being Alabama Football, but this past weekend was my mother's birthday, so although I had tickets to the (away) game, I chose to go home and spend some time with the family. We had a pretty nice weekend- going out to eat before the Oxford Homecoming game Friday night, Brittany's volleyball tournament all day Saturday, lunch and shopping Sunday afternoon... the only things that would have made my weekend any better would be more rest, actually doing some homework, and the W on Saturday in South Carolina. Oh, well. We can't have everything we want, now can we?

So, yeah, I have to go, because, like I said, I am really busy, and I just don't have the time to be sitting here making up what I want to say again. Until I see you again, don't do anything I wouldn't do (unless you want to), and if I don't know you, sign my guestbook so I will know you were here!

11 SEPTEMBER 2001
OH MY GOSH.

That was my reaction this morning. That is still my reaction now.

All that happened kind of makes you think about the world you are living in. And I am sure that I wouldn't feel right about living in it if it weren't for my security in Christ. I hope you have that same security.

If you don't, and you want it, you can get it here. If you don't have it, and don't want it, let me know so that I can be praying for you.

Anyway, there are no more words that I can say here except "pray for this world". God bless!

05 SEPTEMBER 2001
So, I have been chastised enough. I will update. And I will like it.

Issue to address first: the last update had a comment in it about a particular new campus minister (who will remain nameless, Matt). Some have misconstrued that statement to be a slam against him. Although I prefer the approach that Matt took (asking me point blank), for those of you who were wondering and speculating amongst yourselves, here is the answer. What I meant was that, even though the BCM had changed over the summer, all of the people were the same-- except for Matt, because he wasn't there when I left, but he is now. Sorry for any misinterpretation problems, but if you had asked me, you could have known a lot sooner. Just ask.

Now, on a much lighter note. I have been so busy since classes and work started! I am working 18 hours a week, plus I am taking 16 hours of class, plus all of my reading and homework for class... I just don't know what to do with myself. I am working on my time management skills, but I know there isn't enough time in the day (or week) to do everything I would like to commit myself to.

So, I have to make decisions. And I don't like that. Usually, I just do whatever I want to and then stay up all night (or most of it) doing my homework. But, I have to be at work at 8 AM every day, so I like to get my sleep. That doesn't leave me much time for me. And that's not always cool.

However, since I get along with my roommate a thousand times more this year than last, I don't mind just staying in, sitting in the living room working math problems, and watching TV with Stacey. It's actually fun and rejuvenating.

Plop, plop; fizz, fizz (oh, what a relief it is).

It is definitely good for me to have a roommate that I get along with. And, so far, I don't think it's too bad for Stacey, either.

19 AUGUST 2001
Okay, okay; here it is.

YES, I have been back in Alabama for a couple of weeks now, and I still haven't updated. But, that's no reason to get hostile! I mean, really, you can call me if you want to know what's going on that much.

That said, if you are reading this, then you do care, or you are like me and make it a point to visit all of my friends' websites every day just to check in the off-chance that someone might have updated. If you are like me in that respect, then here you go. You're welcome.

After a busy week of shopping and doctor's appointments and church and movies at home, I am finally settled in here in Tuscaloosa. My new roommate Stacey Findley brought some stuff Thursday when I came, and she is supposed to be here for good some time today. I am very excited about living with her and not some random person that I have never met.

BCM stuff is going well, but things are so much different that it seems like it's not even the same place anymore. The only stable part of it all is the people (just not the one in charge). I am glad to have gotten to see everybody, but my joy will not be complete until I get to hug Ginny. She was just such a great friend this summer-- I can't give enough props to her for her friendship, so I won't even try!

Anyway, I miss Philly, but it will still be there when I get ready to go back, so I am not too depressed. I really miss all of my new friends, though, and I hope that Cady and Kristin are having a wonderful time in Spain. Go Sixers! :)

So, yeah, that's about all for now. I can and can't wait to get back in the swing of things, but I will keep you posted with how that's going. See ya!

01 AUGUST 2001
You asked for it... you got it: MY UPDATE.

Seriously, people, you'd think that you actually cared about what was going on with me! :) Anyway, here it is, in all it's glory. And this one is definitely the last of the Philly updates.

Tonight marks my next-to-the-last night in Virginia. This week has seen us through many adventures- all of which contribute to my general fatigue. For your reading pleasure, I will recapture a few events into words.

For starters, when we arrived Saturday evening, I gathered my belongings and travelled to my host home, only to discover that she had an inside cat. So, to avoid any possible difficulties, I swapped homes with Elizabeth, who I might add was none too excited to leave her first home. She's okay now, though.

Sunday was church and spending the day with our host families. The leaders were all invited to dinner at another host home, and we enjoyed a leisurely dinner, a basketball game, and swimming. Monday saw us swimming and horseback riding at the church-owned Limestone Park in the morning, and visiting the Natural Bridge in the afternoon.

Monday night, we "camped out" at the park (all the males in a tent, all the females in the room upstairs). I couldn't sleep because I couldn't breathe, so I tried to sleep in the van, and, well, it just didn't work. Tuesday, we swam a little, went to a Dairy Farm and saw how they milk cows, and played Putt-Putt in the afternoon.

Today, we swam some more and travelled up the mountain to Peaks of Otter to hike to the top. And tonight was off-night for leaders: we went to Roanoke and ate at O'Charley's for dinner. It was good (even though it wasn't Thursday).

Tomorrow, we swim (surprise, surprise) and go to a Science Museum and Rescue Mission. There is also a farewell cookout tomorrow night. Then, on Friday, we go back to Philly.

I can't believe how quickly this week (and this summer) has gone by! I want to stay, but I know I can't... we leave for home only two days after we get back to Philly. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Trinity, and I wouldn't take it back for anything except to do it all over again. I hope you all feel the same about your summer, as well.

Well, au revoir, and see you back in Alabama! ROLL TIDE

19 JULY 2001
Well, we are coming down to the last of it. And I'm not sure if I want to go back to Alabama...

I mean, I know that I have to finish my last year of school, but I just love it here. The people are so wonderful, and city life is pretty cool. There is just SO much to do!!!

On the other hand, it will be great to see all of the old familiars: the fam, my house, Oxford, T-town, the BCM, all of those wonderful old friends, etc. :) You get the picture. But, there's just something about Philly. Dunno.

So, this is the last week of semi-calmness. Next week, we have day camp every day from 8AM to 6PM. What fun! I am actually excited because we have a group from Orlando, FL, who will be leading the different age groups. They seem to be a great group who are really excited about coming, themselves. Again, Cady, Elizabeth, and I will be the supervisors.

Then, on Saturday, after camp is over, we leave bright and early in the morning to go to Virginia. There are some churches there who, every year, raise money and plan a week-long trip for our Sunday School kids. They send a van to pick us up, provide food, clothing, shelter, and recreation for a week, and bring us home on the next Friday. I am the MOST excited about this part because we get to take 22 of our best kids to a place where they are showered with the most love and attention they have probably seen in their lives. And it's all free for them. Just because the people at the churches in Virginia want to do something for the kids. I think that's pretty great.

So, anyway, I suppose this will be my next-to-the-last update. Check back next Thursday or Friday for my last update. After that, I don't know if I will have access to the internet. If I don't, then I will see you soon!

7 JULY 2001
Well, here I am again. I know it's been over a week, but I was busy. We had Vacation Bible School this week, plus it was the 4th of July. So, forgive me this once, okay?

Anyway, before I get to VBS, let me tell you about last weekend. We went to NYC! It was SO exciting! I got to see the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, the Rockefeller Center, the NBC Studio, some other stuff, and Les Miserables. I think Les Mis was my favorite part of all! It was so great. I love New York! I still want to go back, though, because I didn't get to see the Empire State Building or Central Park yet. Someday...

So, VBS. We had an awesome week. There was a youth group from Richmond, VA, who led all of the lessons and groups this week. Cady, Elizabeth, and I were the supervisors. Those of you who know me well can stop rolling your eyes now and read the rest of what I have to say. :) It was an incredible time, especially since the workers to kids ratio was about one to one; our kids behaved so well because they were getting the attention they crave. We were impressed. Anyway, the only bad thing was that they group couldn't stay until Friday, so a bunch of us had to do it all by ourselves. It turned out well, though, because we got to have four other Philadelphia missionaries come help, and we had a great time. Two 6th-grade boys, Mister and Kevin, were saved on Thursday, as well. Praise God!

My biggest encouragement of the week was a boy named Gregory. He used to live in this neighborhood and came to Trinity all the time. Then, his family moved, and it made it difficult for him to get here. Since May, he has been coming to Sunday School (sometimes late) every week. This is special to us because he has to save up his own money to ride two buses to get to the church, and two more to get home. This costs him over a day! He decided to come to VBS, but it was going to cost him for the week. He didn't think he would be able to make it every day, though, because he just didn't have enough money. One of my roommates decided to sponsor him for the week and bought him enough bus tokens to get to the church and back home every day. Gregory had perfect attendance this week, even though one day he had to come extremely late because his face was swollen with a rash and he couldn't see. I was encouraged every day to see Gregory, as he is one of the few kids who shows his appreciation and enthusiasm no matter what any of the other kids say. Also, Gregory told us that he has already accepted Christ as His Savior. Praise God!

Finally, the 4th. It was fun. We were supposed to have a progressive dinner, but it turned into a stretched out dinner at one home. The food was good, and the company was excellent. As Elizabeth would say, "good times were had by all". After we ate, we walked downtown to the Art Museum for the festivities. We found a place to sit down in the grass, and enjoyed a concert by Jill Scot (I don't know her). Then, ABC started their televised program, and it was pretty boring for a while because we couldn't hear much or see at all. However, when Mel Gibson and other well-knowns got on stage to read the Declaration of Independence, we all perked up. When the fireworks finally started (two and a half hours after we had arrived), it had started to sprinkle, but those of us who hadn't already left didn't mind. The show, which cost over million, lasted almost 30 minutes and was spectacular-- the best I had ever seen! When we started walking home afterwards, the rain picked up and we got soaked. We just laughed it off, and, again, "good times were had by all".

I am so blessed to be here working with Trinity. I can't even begin to express all of the things I have learned or experienced, but suffice it to say that God is definitely here and working hard! Keep all of us in your prayers, and drop me a line if you think about it! I am sure that if you are reading this, I miss you VERY much! If you want to write, my address is here. Bye!

27 JUNE 2001
So, what do you want to know? I have, since just last week, explored many more facets of Philadelphia. It has been interesting, at the very least.

Thursday, I ventured out by myself on the bus to the Library in Center City. It was fun trying to make sure that I got off at the right place. Then, Friday night, some girls from church (Julie, Allison, and Lisa) took Elizabeth and me to Manayunk with them. Manayunk is a section of Philadelphia that mostly resembles a small town with quaint shops and cafes down Main Street. We had a good time there.

Saturday was sleeping-in day. Around 1 p.m., J, A, and L called to see if we wanted to go to the Italian Market with them. We ended up taking the bus downtown, walking through the Italian Market, and eating in a great little Tex-Mex restaurant on South Street. Good times were had by all!

Sunday, I taught the 4-5 year-old Sunday School class. I REALLY like that age; I don't think I am cut out to work with the older children. After church, we had a "town meeting". This was a time for the members to hash out some concerns they had. It was good, considering that many people have gotten discouraged and are considering leaving Trinity. I think a lot was gained by the time the meeting was over. Keep Trinity in your prayers!

Well, there will be more later. Have a great week!!!

20 JUNE 2001
Man, it's hot here. Did you know that most people here in Philly, if they have one, do not USE their air conditioners? It's a travesty, I know. Sweating every day- something I have become accustomed to. Never stopping sweating- another thing I have become accustomed to. It's not THAT bad, though. Just imagine looking forward to that ice-cold shower you can take when you get home from work, only to start sweating again immediately after you step out. Ahhhh... there's no place like...

NOT home. There's no place like Philly. I love it here! There have been a few adventures, including my wonderful chopstick skills (ask me if you care- it's hilarious), and I have enjoyed being here so far. Monday, we went to the shore (that's Northern for the beach). There were so many people there- very unlike any time I have ever been. Also, you can only swim between flags and you get a whistle blown at you if you go too far out. We actually went to Ocean City, NJ. They have a boardwalk, and my supervisor insisted that we get Water Ice, which is a lot like a snow cone or TCBY Sorbet (depending on what kind you get). On the way back to Philly, we drove through Atlantic City. I saw all of the "familiar" streets (Monopoly, if you don't get it), and we stopped at Donald Trump's Taj Mahal to use the facilities (and look around!). It was pretty awesome.

This week, we have actually begun the children's minitries we have been planning thus far. Yesterday, we had Kids' Clubs (Craft and Drama). I did craft, and we made cross necklaces and playdough. The kids had fun. They are much more rowdy than I ever would have imagined, and Cady says they were behaving well, so... I can only imagine. Tonight, we start WHAT (Wednesdays Here At Trinity). It's a program for children with singing, games, crafts, and Bible stories. I am excited, and I think we should have a good turn-out. Since it starts in 45 minutes, I have to go now. Stay tuned for more info!

10 JUNE 2001
I'm in Philadelphia. WOO-HOO!!! In case you didn't know, this is the greatest place in the world! Go Sixers!!

Anyway, I love it here. Everybody I meet is so incredibly awesome: my supervisor, Cady, is so great. I am living with my partner, Elizabeth, in an apartment with two girls, Kristin and Janette. They are 25 and 26, and two of the nicest people you will ever meet. Janette even gave up her room so that Elizabeth and I could have our own room. The apartment building has a courtyard in the center with a fountain, and inside our apartment is a spiral staircase. It is so cool.

The church is 1.4 miles from our apartment. We walk this every day. It's not too bad, but you MUST walk "with a purpose." No dilly-dallying or acting like a tourist; it's bad for you. Anyway, the church is small, but it is really cool-looking. The inside is amazingly large for the amount of street space it takes up. This morning we (Cady, Elizabeth, and I) led worship because the Praise Team was out of town. It was weird to be at a church for the first time ever and leading worship! I got used to it, and just praised God anyway. There are only about 30-40 people who attend the church on a regular basis, but every one of them is great. After church, started packing the bags for the Food Distribution that occurs every Thursday. It's amazing to think about some people not being able to afford their own groceries. I am really blessed.

Right now, I am at the library- the Central Library of the Free Libraries of Philadelphia. It is one mile from our apartment, in the very Center of town. It seems weird, but Downtown is actually the safest place to be in Philadelphia. There are so many people (including tourists) that there is very little danger of anything happening. It's a reassuring thing- especially to Elizabeth, who is really on the cautious side. She is getting a lot more self-sufficient, though, as we go wandering along.

There will be more updates later, probably at the rate of one per week. Check back for the latest info on me and Philly!

24 MAY 2001
All right. I've now been home for a little over a week, and it's not as bad as it was at first. I did continue to be bored the rest of last week, but it's okay.

Sunday was church... also Senior Recognition Day. That was pretty interesting, considering that I have known a couple of the graduates almost my entire life! After church, I had lunch and went to Wal-mart with my mom and sister. I bought the Best of Friends, Volumes 1 and 2. I still haven't watched them yet... Sunday night, I went to eat with some old friends, and then went over to Stephanie's for homemade ice cream. It was good.

Monday and Tuesday were pretty boring. They both ended in me going to see movies at the $1 theater (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, The Mexican, and Exit Wounds). Tuesday, I also packed up all my school stuff in boxes for the attic. It's hard to decide what you want to do without for two months. I did it, though.

And, now, yesterday. Yesterday, I spent the entire day unloading my clothes into my closet and dressers, putting things in "their place" (at least, for 10 days). I also packed up a few more things for the attic, and, since all of the yard-sale clothes items were in a great big stack in my floor, Dad helped me pack them up in boxes and bags and take them out to the garage. I set up my TV, VCR, and DVD player, and watched My Best Friend's Wedding and Pretty Woman, falling asleep somewhere around 2 am. Oh, yeah, in case you couldn't tell, I like Julia Roberts.

So, that has been my week. I hope yours was as good. This weekend, I am going to Georgia with my family (sort of) to see aunts, uncles, and grandparents that I won't get to see all summer. I hope that somewhere in all that fun I can squeeze in a trip to the movies to see Pearl Harbor.

See ya 'round!

18 MAY 2001
There's no place like home. There's no place like home. There's no place like...

You get the picture. In case you couldn't tell, I am at home for now. The beginning of this week was Council Retreat, and although it was pretty much fun, I am glad that it is over. We got a lot talked out, and I think everybody has some wonderful ideas for the BCM for next year, but I was ready for a break that lasted more than one day.

And, then, I came home. Ah, home. There is so much to say about home. I don't think that I could attempt to describe my home and do it any justice. There are just so many wonderful facets...

Take, for instance, my sister. Yesterday, she came home from school complaining that I hadn't put away everything in my room yet. My room. Add to that the fact that she considers it fun to sit on me and try to tickle me, or get on top of me when I am laying on the couch and push me off into the floor... it's a good thing she is spending time with her friends this weekend.

Then, there's my mom. She came home yesterday complaining that I hadn't done the dishes (two of which, I had actually used). Not that I mind doing the dishes; I just needed ONE day of rest. I even set up my computer for them so that they wouldn't have to wait all year for one e-mail to load. There's no arguing with her, though. I "made" dinner (chicken salad) last night. I did the dishes today. Just my little contribution.

Now, finally, my dad. He's good to play Trivial Pursuit with... and fun to beat! We played two games: I lost the first one and won the second. I hate it that he actually grew up in the time that all the pink questions come from so he knows much more of those answers than I do. And Dad's a lot more fun to be around now that he got the tree stump out of the ground!

Ah, home. At least I leave in two weeks...

09 MAY 2001
Well, the end is here.

The end of this semester, that is. I am so excited about getting to Philadelphia that I wet my bed last night thinking about it. Okay, not really, but maybe that lets you know how excited I am.

I bought a sleeping bag today to take to Philly with me, because I needed one for the van trip up there (we will be staying in churches on the way). The only REAL reason that I needed a new one was because my old one was hot pink, and I have had it for almost 10 years!

I am also getting a guitar. It's not a new one, or anything; in fact, you could most likely call it an antique: it was my dad's. I hope it's okay, because I am excited about learning to play! My summer missions partner plays the flute (what's up with me being partnered with flute players?), and she says we can make music together... I don't think she understood that I will be learning to play. Oh, well, maybe I am a fast (like a fox) learner!

Have a GREAT summer!!!!

30 APRIL 2001
Summer Missions Orientation. Need I say more?

I will anyway. Last Friday, Tubbs, Michelle, Lyd, Cindy, Curt, and I all made the trek to Shocco Springs for the final gathering of summer missionaries before we actually went on summer missions. Let me tell you that it was so much more than you would ever expect! The very first session was so wonderfully interesting that I contemplated going back up to my stinky, mildewy room in Shocco Inn and sleeping through everything else. I didn't, though, and it proved a good decision as the evening progressed.

To make a long story short, I had a good time chatting with my van group... 15 of us on a van for two days travelling to Pennsylvania... WITH SCOTTY. This should prove to be good times for all! I also had the opportunity to get to know my partner for the summer a little better. Elizabeth is a senior at Montevallo, graduating in December with an Elementary Education degree. We seem to get along already, and I will hope and pray that we become very good friends!

I am very excited about the weeks ahead of me. I just hope I pack most everything I need and won't have to get my mother to mail me TOO many things! Also, if you think about it, just before I go, remind me to take a fan. I hear the AC up there is few and far between! Maybe I will manage!

24 APRIL 2001
You know, there's nothing like playing a good, long game of Phase 10 until the wee hours of the morning. I have successfully played two games sitting to the right of the person who actually won, while I myself played quite terribly. In the first game, I at least got to CHOOSE who won... or who DIDN'T win... that was fun. Well, it was fun until I played with the NON-winner last night and realized that any Skip dealt him would be used on me. That's when MY strategy changed to "Get Skip cards. Skip Bill." It's always fun when you can beat them to the punch!

I had an incredibly weird dream last night... not weird to the point of "I don't understand why I dreamed something like that," but weird like "I hope nothing like that EVER happens." It was good to wake up...

20 APRIL 2001
Well, almost two weeks have passed since I updated my page, and I have been hassled endlessly about it. So, in response to all of you who have been waiting on this, here it is!

Today is Honor's Day here at UA, and for me, that means that one of my classes was cancelled. While most people get everything after 10, I got my 8 cancelled, and I had a test at 9. Fun, huh? Since I am no longer an honor student, this day is nothing special to me, but I don't really mind. I still have my scholarship, and that's all that matters to me! :)

Last Sunday was Easter, and I had a good time with my family at home for the weekend. My parents and I went to see "What Women Want" at the $1 movie theater in Anniston. I had already seen it, but I liked it, and I don't mind seeing movies that I like more than once! If you know me, you know how much I love movies anyway, so there's no need to further that argument.

This past Wednesday was Spring Cleaning for me. I don't know why I got it into my head, but I did. I went through things that I have had packed away since the summer, threw some stuff out, dusted, vacuumed, swept, and mopped. It was great fun! Now, my apartment is much more homey... except for my roommate, but that's another story all in itself. I hope that you are doing well! Have a wonderful weekend!

9 APRIL 2001
The weekend is over, and my main comment is that it was definitely a learning experience. LTC (Leadership Training Conference) was good, and I got a lot of helps and pointers for Creative Ministries for next year. That's a good thing, because I have NO CLUE.

All of the Bible studies and sessions were pretty good, and I am glad that I didn't pull the old BCMer/ Travis thing and sleep through them! God knew that I needed to hear what the speakers had to say!

Yesterday, I went to the XFL game with Casey. It was pretty fun; it reminded me of a minor league baseball game. We had a good time tanning and watching a little football: I didn't even get burnt a little!

Last night, I chilled in my apartment, watching the Pelican Brief and eating Spaghetti-0's and meatballs. It was fun.

Have a great day!

6 APRIL 2001
Well, the weekend is just around the corner (actually, one hour away for me). I am at work, and when I leave here, the weekend has officially begun! LTC is this weekend, along with all the fun and joy of the Commissioning Service. I had forgotten about the need for dressy clothes... but I AM glad that I remembered BEFORE I left Tuscaloosa!

Anyway, the BCM Women's Softball team had our first game last night, and... let's just say that we looked like it! We did score 4 runs, though, thanks to Tiffany who can hit like a mug! I had fun except for the headache I suffered afterwards. Oh, well.

The Northwood Hills guys also had their softball game last night. They killed Calvary... but what athletic group of young guys WOULDN'T beat a middle-aged team? Then, we ate at O'Charley's, only it wasn't the same at all because there were only four of the same crowd that always went last summer (Bill, Casey, Paul, and me). What happened to everybody?

Anyway, I guess that's all for now except that I hope you have a wonderful weekend!

5 APRIL 2001
It's here... the long-awaited changes to the website! There are two pictures, a guestbook, and old post pages. I also created a theme for the site... see if you can't figure it out by the titles over on the left. It's not so hard, especially if you know anything about me and what I love!!!

I got my hair cut yesterday. I was trying to grow it out for the summer, but it was getting too long to do anything with, and I couldn't stand it, so I caved. Casey and I went together, although she was done much more quickly than I was. She played with the ducks in Spiller Pets while she waited on me.

I also went to the tanning bed for my first session last night. I set it for 10 minutes, but when I felt my back getting hot after 8, I got out. I am a little reddish today, but nothing serious. It doesn't even hurt. Obviously, it's nothing like the excruciating pain I put myself through in L.A. last September!

I hope the guys can play their softball game tonight. I am looking forward to getting back into the "Thursday night at O'Charley's" tradition...

31 MARCH 2001
Well, I finally decided to change my website and make it more user-friendly! Hope you like it!!

Today is essentially the last day of Spring Break, and although I have had a very restful and relaxing time, I definitely do NOT want to go back to class. Tuscaloosa will be an improvement on Oxford, especially since all of my friends are there, but I really don't want to go to class! If only... but, WAIT!, there are only six more weeks left. So, I suppose I will just make the most of it, since I won't be seeing any of you this summer (unless you come to visit!).

I will try to update this site every day, so visit often!