Blessed.

I'm just going to go ahead and apologize to my mother, who I know will read this... This isn't going to be an easy one for her to read, and I'll probably blog about this same subject again later this week... So, Mama, this is your warning. 


December is a hard month for me, and my family. This year I tried to just go with the flow and face each day as it came... Which I have to say, was easier to do than I thought it would be. This time four years ago I was facing the hardest, saddest, emotional, trying, unfair time of my life. My Daddy, the man I loved more than anything, was dying. And I couldn't do anything about it. It took me months after he died to realize, finally, that he was okay. He was better than okay. He was in Heaven with God, and all of our other family members and friends who had gone before him. Once I realized this, and in partial thanks to the grief counselor that I was seeing (and still do, on occasion) I was able to let go of all of the bad memories that I had of that November and December of 2006. I'm not sure what I would have done, or where I would be without my mom, family and a few select close friends that were with me through out this entire time. I learned during this time that I had amazing friends. (I already knew I had an amazing family). If it hadn't of been for Lacey, and Kevin, I don't know what I would have done. Kevin was there non-stop, 24-7, whenever I needed him. 


Thursday will be four years since my Daddy passed away. I'm not really sure what to think about it... This year has been so crazy anyway. From moving to Los Angeles, parting ways with Cameron and moving back to NC, getting into school and moving to Lumberton and starting school again... I know that my Dad would be so proud of me for everything that I've accomplished since Dec. 23, 2006. I've got a degree for Cape Fear Community College, and I'm working on this bachelor's degree in elementary education. He wasn't one to give praise too often, he never really handled words and feelings well... but I know he is proud of me. And for that, I am blessed. And thankful. I had the most amazing father a girl could ever want. He gave me anything I ever needed or wanted. I was spoiled rotten by him. And I loved every minute of it. (Although, my mother does not find the "Daddy would have gotten it for me" line very funny anymore...)


When he left this world, I was in such a dark place, not knowing what to do next, or where to go, or how to handle my emotions. I've been on such a journey since then. I've grown up so much. And I've truly become my own person. And I'd like to think that everything I've accomplished since then, has been because I've had an angel watching over me. A very loving angel, with a sarcastic tone...even if it wasn't because of an angel, I know he's watching me, and getting to see me live my life in a different way. And for that, I believe that he is also Blessed by a heavenly view. 

Greensboro Survived!

Well, Greensboro survived Justine and I getting together for another time! That city must have built up a big tolerance when we lived there for our freshman year of college... Or, perhaps we're just more grown up and mature than we were back then.... (Opinions of a certain mother that may read this blog are not welcome...)

I mentioned before that I was also going to be able to meet Matt, Justine's boyfriend while I was there. The three of us got to go out for dinner to Monterey, a Mexican restaurant in Greensboro. (It was really good!) Matt was already a little higher on my scale than others because he's  a Duke fan. So, +5 for him. Although I did take away a few points for him telling me that if Carolina was playing outside of the ACC he would route for them... To each their own, but, not a true Duke fan in my book. (I mean honestly, do you think that there are ANY Tarhole, I mean, Tarheel fans that route for Duke when they play outside the ACC...? NO!) The fact that he has a good sense of humor added another +5. And he puts up with Justine, so that's like +200 at least! haha, but he seems like a really great guy, and I'm looking forward to getting to know him better.

Saturday morning I was up SUPER early against my will to drive from Greensboro to Raleigh for a TEC meeting. Which went great, and I must brag about my Wheat team... this group of youth/older youth (use the term older in whatever way you wish, I'm not going to get in trouble...) has to be the most productive group I've ever seen! We have gotten SOO much accomplished for the weekend in January already! They just don't stop! And it's so awesome and amazing to see the bonds that are forming with the youth as well. That's one of my favorite aspects of TEC. The friendships. They last a lifetime.

We did have to shorten our meeting today, everyone got away early because it started SNOWING in Raleigh and had been snowing further west where a big hunk of our team had come from. So we didn't want anyone taking chances on getting home safely... So I got to drive all the way back to Wilmington in Snow (Raleigh), Sleet (until exit 364 on I-40) and rain until I got into my driveway. I've never liked driving in rain.. who does? It's not fun, and it scares me... and I especially hate driving in the rain while it's DARK. And on a highway. Needless to say I was happy when I pulled into the driveway!

Going to church tomorrow, and then I'm going to get started on all my baking and candy making for Christmas! And finish up the last minute craft needs for some of my Christmas presents. Living on student loans and mama's money makes for a slim Christmas for friends/family this year! But, it's handmade/baked by me, so at least it's from the heart! Hope you all have a wonderful and merry Christmas if I don't get to blog before then, although with some of the things that will happen this week, I'm sure that I'll be able to get a post in at some point!

Greensboro bound!

Tomorrow morning I am headed to Greensboro for the day/night to see Justine, one of my best friends! Saturday I'll be in Raleigh for the day for a TEC meeting, then back home in Wilmington that night! 


I'm going to Greensboro for a few given reasons... to see my best friend and spend time with her, obviously. I hope that I'll be catching up with an old friend, Ben, that I used to work with at Gap while I'm there as well. And... drummer-al please, meet Justine's boyfriend, Matt. 


Unfortunately, for Matt, he has no idea what he is getting himself into. Yes, Justine is a wonderful person... and Katy, her mom, has approved of Matt, so it's just a matter of Matt meeting me. Which he seems pretty excited about... Oh if he only knew. You see, Justine and I have known each other since 2001. That's 9 years. We've been best friends, since our senior year of high school (2004). That's 6 years. We were roommates our first year of college... and have been through SO much together since then. You name it, it's happened... boyfriends, family problems, medical problems, springbreaks, school, me moving across the country, death, losing friendships with other friends, and did I mention boyfriends? Because Justine always has interesting boy drama. :-D (Love you J!) 


Justine and I haven't lived in the same city since we were both at UNC-Greensboro our first year. I've been in Wilmington, Los Angeles, and now Lumberton since then! I'm not really sure what I would do without her, and she would say the same for me. (she better...) 


So, needless to say, with such a long history between the two of us, Justine and I have a very interesting friendship. And the way we act when we are together always seems to resort back to freshman year of college. Telling insane stories of all the crazy things we did (especially on each other!), remembering all the boys we had crushes on, and who dated who... (that's another interesting fact about Justine and I... we have 2 ex's in common.. no worries, though. We each dated them at different times!) 


So, I feel bad for Matt. Justine has tried to prepare him for what meeting me will be like. And for what he should expect of my stellar personality. Some say I'm sarcastic... (who would have guessed?) and I can be pretty abrupt about some things... And as I said before.. Justine and I can get pretty crazy when we're around each other. 


I'm very eager and excited to meet Matt! And, all I'm going to say is that, at least he is a DUKE fan... This girl can handle that! :-D


Let the crazy reunion in the 'Boro commence! (And, say a Prayer for Matt...)

Praxis I, Round 2.

If I ever have a chance to be part of a school reform movement, I will gladly make a stand for students having to take a standardized test to be accepted into a teaching program at a university. 


1. Math and Kara are not friends. We never have been, and we never will be. It's just the type of relationship that will never work... 
2. I have ADD. Yes, I have meds, but it's still hard for me to test for long periods because of it. 
3. STANDARDIZED TESTS ARE STUPID!!!!!


Okay. Sorry, I just needed to get that out... Now, My second attempt with the Praxis I (entrance exam needed to be placed into the school of education for NC)... was today at 9am. 


Monday morning at 9am... what was I thinking? So, I went. 


Results:
Math- up one point
Reading- up six points
Writing---didn't retake writing, but I passed it the first time... 
What does all this mean? It means, with my scores totaled, I missed the 522 mark (what I need to get into the program) by TWO FREAKING POINTS.


ARE YOU KIDDING ME PRAXIS??? Not happy. 


After I was finished, the test administer suggested that I retake the Writing portion in hopes that I could bring up my score on that part. By doing this, I basically forget about the writing score I had before, and by doing that, I needed to pass the Writing by 4 points to make up for what I lacked in the Math department. So, the center I took the test in had an opening today and I went ahead and was able to take the writing as well... Math and Reading scores are given immediately because it is computer based... I have to wait a couple of weeks for the Writing to come back. 


All while thinking happy thoughts, saying lots and lots of prayers, and perhaps brushing up on my Harry Potter spells... 


So think good thoughts! I'll be sure to keep the blog updated once I know the final results. If I pass, I'll be interviewing with the School of Education once I get back for the start of the upcoming semester. The day classes start... nothing like the last minute! And if I don't pass, I'll be changing my ENTIRE schedule and will be there an extra semester. 


I feel really good about the test this time as a whole though... and if you read this blog: Butter Biscuit then you would know how the morning went of the first time I took the Praxis... 


This time is was sooo much better.......






There was butter ON my biscuit. 

NOW... that's what I call feeling Old.

The music industry many years ago decided to come out with the "NOW MUSIC" CDs.in order to get the new hip music to the fans in ONE CD. And might I just add, that CDs were just becoming widely popular at this time...It was a good move on their part, because you could just wait until the NOW MUSIC CD came out, and have all of your favorite songs on one tape and not have to buy every other cassette from multiple artists. (Back in this day and age, we were not fortunate enough to have iTunes, where you could pick and choose which songs you wanted from an album). This NOW phenomenon started originally in the United Kingdom, but made it's way Stateside in 1998 with the release of NOW 1. In 1998 I was 12 years old. The NOW 1 CD included such artists as: The Backstreet Boys, Janet Jackson, Aqua (remember the "Barbie Girl" song?), Spice Girls, Hanson, Cherry Poppin' Daddies, All Saints, and Everclear. 


This, was the biggest deal ever. Everyone who was anyone had this CD. And it wasn't like we all had CD burners to run to and make a copy of it for our friends. I actually believe that I had the first Now album on a CASSETTE tape. As crazy as that may sound. The last Now CD that I purchased (ok, most likely my Daddy bought it) was the Now CD vol. 5. This CD included such  tunes as, "It's gonna be me" by NSYNC, "Aaron's Party" by Aaron Carter, Mandy Moore, and a bunch of other hip hop/rap songs that didn't really appeal to me. Which was a big reason that I never bought another one. Instead of all of the great songs of the time period that I liked, they had songs on there that I hated. So I just saved my money to buy shoes, or a new purse. 


What made me write about this in the Blog is this: I saw an advertisement on TV the other day and almost choked. It was a commercial for the NOW CDs.... Now, let me first say this... NOW 5 that I purchased was released in 2000. I was a freshman in high school. They are now on NOW 36!!!! THIRTY SIX!!!! How ridiculous!?! It made me feel incredibly OLD. And not to mention I'll be turning 25 in January (that's January 21st, for those wondering when to send gifts...) (ha!) And seeing that didn't make it any better. 


I guess I was actually somewhat surprised that they were even still releasing CDs like that... since practically everyone has a computer with iTunes, and an MP3 player of some sort to play music on. Although, I will say if it is an artist that is one of my favorites, I buy the CD. There's just something about buying the CD, getting in the car, taking an hour to open the CD (honestly, who came up with the CD wrapping policy?) and then popping it in to the CD player and listening to the album. Now you can sign onto iTunes and bam, instantly the album is downloaded to your computer, plug in that MP3 player and BAM it's instantly on there. Now you're free to run around the neighbor hood and listen to your new music... or, in reality, you're free to look at a teenager in the mall with her parents who has got the MP3 player "earbuds" glued to his/her ears and has a horrible look on their face. (Almost as if they were embarrassed to be with their parents). 


Anyway... Things like this happen all the time to me... and more recently it seems the older I get, the more they happen. My mom and I had a conversation about computers/cell phones/TVs and how they have evolved just in my life time. Talk about crazy. And thank goodness for it. Or else I couldn't entertain you with this lovely blog post. 


Other things, such as, organizations that I've been involved with, have done the same type of thing. For example, I'm been involved with Share the Word Teens Encounter Christ (STW TEC) since September of 2000 when I went as a guest to TEC#21. I am now currently serving on the leadership team for the upcoming weekend in January. The number of this weekend you ask? I don't really want to tell you... but I will. It's #41. HOLY MOLY! 20 TECs later... and here I am. I was director for TEC #31, that was in September of 2005. It just seems crazy to me. And makes me feel old. 


That's my ranting for tonight... I needed a break from studying about Hitler's Nazi regime in Germany, and about communism in China. (who wouldn't?). It's exam week here at UNC-Pembroke... aka, the week every student slowly but surely loses their mind. So far so good... two more tomorrow, and this crazy history final is on Wednesday. So I will update again once the craziness is over! Have a wonderful week everyone! 

Hell week...... I mean, Hello exam week!

I think that colleges came up with "Finals Week" just so the students have a reason to complain about everything and freak out, and stress out more than they have the entire semester.... Because that's exactly what happens. The semester starts out so nice, there's a steady amount of work, and it increases through out the weeks... then all of a sudden, BAM! It's a week before Thanksgiving break and all of your teachers think that writing papers and studying for exams is more important to do than spend time with your family over the holiday. (which, I suppose for some people, it's an excuse to get away from their family!) So then Thanksgiving break happens, which is a welcome break for all (Especially those of us who live in Lumberton...) Thanksgiving break consists of writing papers, doing research for papers, and studying for the upcoming tests. Finals. The word alone can stop a college student dead in their tracks. A week of hell, basically. Late night studying, eating food that the food pyramid would be ashamed of, and drinking more caffeine than any person ever should.

Thanksgiving was wonderful. I went home to Wilmington and spent Thursday in Rocky Point with the family... Friday I spent with my mom running around Wilmington in the Black Friday craziness like FOOLS! Saturday I spent 6 hours at Port City Java writing a 15 page paper.... which was exactly what I wanted to do.... NOT! I was entirely too caffeinated once I got back to my mom's... She wasn't real thrilled with the hyper-activity either. (Oh well!)

I came back to Lumberton early Sunday afternoon and worked on another paper and a power point presentation that I had due.... Monday after class I was held hostage in the education lab (computer lab for the education majors) by my friend Mary so that I could help her with all of her papers and study for an exam. Today (well, Tuesday)... was the big day. Two HUGE BIG GIGANTIC ENORMOUS (you get the idea?) papers were due at 2pm, and 5pm. For my 2pm class, I also had to give a presentation. In between, in my 3:15 class, we had our FINAL exam.

Sigh.

Needless to say, at 6:30pm when my last class ended... I could not get to my car fast enough!

Of course, I should have walked a little slower... in a hurry to get to my car, all to go home and write up lesson plans that are due for tomorrow (Wednesday) and start on filling out my study guide for my history final.

6 days left of the semester, 1 exam down, 5 to go!

What part of Butter Biscuit did you not understand?

So, as you all know, I've described a few of the lovely encounters that I've had over the past couple of months while living in Robeson County. 
I went home this past weekend, and my mom mentioned this particular story to me, and I realized that it was blog worthy, and that my amazing Southern friends would really appreciate it. 


October 28, I got up extremely early to take the Praxis I in Fayetteville. My mom had come up the night before and was going with me. We decided to stop at Hardee's on our way out of town to grab something quick for breakfast. 
This Hardee's was a little abnormal from the majority of the others I had been to before... (mainly because it's in Lumberton...) The drive-thru was set up all weird, at the front end of the store, and for it being 7am, there were a ton of people in line. I made the comment that we should have gone inside after waiting 10 minutes.... but it was too late, we had already ordered. Bacon egg and cheese for mom, BUTTER biscuit for me, and a small coke. Finally the car in front of us was at the window and the food had passed from the window and into their car. 5 minutes later, they were still there, TALKING to an employee (perhaps about the weather?) through the window. After realizing that they were holding up the line, they drove off and we were at the window.


Here's where we realized this was a bad mistake... 
1. The total for our 2 biscuits and small drink was almost $7. (I knew that this was wrong)
2. The man at the window wanted to confirm our order, so he said, "You have a Steak and Egg biscuit, a butter biscuit, and small sprite?"
---NO! I told him the correct order, and 5 minutes later we got our bag. 
3. I drive off.... not out of the parking lot (I've learned) I tell mom to check my biscuit to make sure there is butter on the inside of it. 
4. No butter on the BUTTER biscuit. 
.....Excuse me?


That morning I was not in the mood for being messed with. And certainly not with my biscuit. Especially since Hardee's is one of the ONLY places I will eat butter biscuits from. (Chickfila- not in Lumberton, and Biscuitville-Also not in Lumberton). 


I decide to whip into a parking place, grab the biscuit, and march into the place and demand that they give me my BUTTER biscuit. 
I walked in, told the woman that I had ordered a BUTTER biscuit and that the biscuit I received has no butter inside. 
The woman looks at me, and says... "You wanted butter on it?"
....................................................................................................................
ARE YOU KIDDING ME LADY!?!?!?!?! YES I WANTED BUTTER ON MY BUTTER BISCUIT!


After seeing that I was going to be pretty adamant about this whole butter on my biscuit thing, she got me a new one, and I was on my way. 


Just a FYI for those Hardee's employees... when a Southern girl asks for a BUTTER biscuit. Make damn sure that there is butter inside of that biscuit. I would have hated to see my grandma's reaction to that. 


Maybe I've watched a few too many Paula Dean episodes.... but make sure the biscuit is buttered.... Or else. 
:) 

Thank you Oprah

First off, I've never been a huge fan of Oprah. Yes, I admire her for all the wonderful things that she has done for so many people all over the world. But it never failed that the one time I'd catch her show, it would be one of her "Oprah's biggest giveaways" where she basically hands out anything a woman (or person, for that matter) would want. The latest phones, computers, trips, etc... So of course, I also wanted all of these things, so it never seemed fair to me that I always hit the channel with that show on. 

This is her last year of her show, and Oprah has totally stepped up her game. What made me get interested in her, was an episode from a few weeks ago about child molestation. As horrible and terrifying as those crimes are, the show really stated a lot. Last week she had the entire original cast of the Sound of Music on. And being a huge fan of The Sound of Music, I loved it! 

Today, Portia de Rossi was on. She has just released her (I believe first) book entitled Unbearable Lightness: A Story of Loss and Gain. I plan on getting a copy of it ASAP... but one of the reasons I loved Oprah's interview with her was that it seemed to me that Portia was not there just to promote her book. It was a very raw and emotional interview that exposed Portia's darkest secrets. Not only did she live her live as a closeted lesbian, but she was also battling anorexia/bulimia/purging. She held nothing back concerning how she felt and how she saw herself through out those years. The Portia we all see today, happily married to Ellen DeGeneres, is the outcome of a vicious cycle of eating disorders and shame that molded her life. 

For anyone that has ever felt insecure about themselves or their body image; for anyone who has ever tried, attempted, or gone through with an eating disorder, this interview is a must see. I can speak from experience. I have gone through different cycles of anorexia a few times in my life. Each time, longing to learn something else, or to find what was actually going to make me happy in life. In each time that I went down this road, something tragic triggered it. When I was 13, a friend from church died. I couldn't handle his death because he was literally the only person who spoke to me at church youth group. Some people that were close to him decided to carry on his vegetarianism, so I joined in as well. Without knowing it, that was the moment I gave up this "normal" life that I was leading. I went from eating everything, to barely eating or drinking anything at all. I never got help at this point in my life, it was my cousin that helped me see what I was doing was crazy. Friendship and family got me through it. 

A few years later, in high school it happened again. I don't remember the exact moment that I felt insignificant, like no one cared...I just remember walking around New Hanover High School and feeling ugly, and fat and that no one even knew who I was because I was just so "plain jane". For me, this was short lived because of my best friend Lacey. She knew about what I had done and what had happened in middle school, and she saw what I was doing and jerked me out of the funk that I was in. 

In June of 2005, my Grandma Ann had a heart-attack and was gone instantly. Just like when I was 13, I couldn't handle it. All of a sudden my family was ripped apart. We relied on her for so much, and even though she would get on my nerves, a lot, I loved her so much and I needed her in my life. So, it began again. Lacey noticed the weight dropping, but it was summer and I appeased her by saying things like "come on Lace, It's bikini season I've got to look good!" or "I'm not losing weight, I swear, you know I would never do that to myself again." 

Right. One thing I've neglected to mention... tragedy brought on this sense of not being in control of my life. How could I be in control when obviously God was taking people away from me left and right. Yes, tragedy put me in this situation, but I kept myself there. It was part of my grieving process. Instead of crying in a room, I didn't eat. I felt guilty when I did eat. What I was putting in my body was the only thing I had control over, and that made my life "better". 

A month after my grandma died, I looked horrible. The person I was dating at the time, Matt,  saw it, Lacey had realized it was more than I was letting on to. So Matt told me straight up, "Tell your mom what's going on so she can get you some help, or I'm hanging up and calling her myself." With his help and support, I was able to tell my mom. I went to counseling sessions and saw a nutritionist to help me. And it did. 

5  years later, I still have some issues with weight. But I have come soo far from where I was in 2005. The fact that my jeans are size 8 doesn't make me want to puke anymore. I understand that my weight and the number on my clothes doesn't matter. What matters is that I'm healthy, and happy. When my father got sick in November of 2006, and in December when we realized that there was nothing that could be done, I made a promise to a good friend, Kevin that I wasn't going to go down the tragedy induced eating disorder again. And I'm very happy (and proud) to say that I haven't since then. When I met Cameron in December of 2007, I was at the smallest I've been in the past almost three years. I was still gaining the normal control over my weight and learning to lose the control over what I was and was not putting in my mouth. And I'm happy to say now, that I am perfectly healthy. My weight still fluctuates and it always will. I've been heavy, and I've been smaller. 

Today's Oprah episode solidified every feeling that I had going through those 3 times in my life. It made me see that I hadn't been alone, even though it had felt that way. I admire Portia so much for writing that book and doing the interview with Oprah. And I hope that every woman, young woman, girl, and teenage girls will see parts of it. Even more, I hope that for the women and girls that are going through the same thing now, will be able to see that there is hope. 

So, thanks Oprah, for the interview... and thank you also to Portia de Rossi for exposing yourself and your story to so many that needed that to be talked about. 

2 in one day? What is going on!

Alright, I know. And I'm sorry the previous post was sort of a downer, but I needed to write about it. And I feel like I can do that on here without judgement.

So, I made it through mid-terms (5 A's and 1 B!)
Fall break was amazing. I didn't do ANYTHING except hang out with my mom and had dinner with a close friend!

Now, I'm going to ask for some prayers!

I'm taking the Praxis I exam for entrance into the school of education.
I haven't gotten myself worked up about it, because I know I can take it again and again until I pass it (but I would LOVE to pass it the first time!)

So at 9:00am Thursday (October 28th) I will be starting the test at Fayetteville State University.

Say some prayers!!! And I'll update on the results as soon as I can! (OR check my facebook!)

Thanks to everyone in advance for the prayers, AND I love you all!!

AMM and playing Catch up

I can remember exactly where I was, what I was doing, who I was with, and what I said, how I felt, and what I did after receiving one phone call. My best friend Keri called me Sunday morning on March 30th to tell me that Annie was gone. I was dog sitting for Lacey, our other friend and Emma (her yorkie) and I were taking a walk around my apartment complex. I thought it was weird that Keri was calling me because it was Sunday and I knew she would be in dance rehearsals all day. I answered with our usual "Hey girl hey!!" but could immediately tell that something was wrong. Keri was in tears, and when she finally could stop the tears long enough, she told me. Annie had been the designated driver for her nephew's prom Saturday night. She was driving him, and two of his friends home after the party when another car who was speeding, driving without a license, and drunk crossed the median and hit them head on. the three passengers suffered minor injuries, but Annie was killed. Keri and I both cried on the phone. I didn't know what to think. I got off of the phone and called Cameron. He was supposed to come meet me for lunch anyway, he might as well get there early. I couldn't get ahold of my mom because she was at church. Rosemary, my room mate was home though. So while I waited for Cameron to get there, I was curled up with Rosemary on my couch, and with little Emma (again, the dog. I know, who names their dog Emma?). Finally church was over and I called my mom, and within minutes of talking to her, Cameron got there. He didn't know Annie, but he could comfort me. The last person I had to call was Lacey, who I was dog sitting for. She was out of town for the weekend. Although we couldn't get up with her until she got to my house that night. Annie, Lacey and Keri all grew up dancing together at a studio in Wilmington. I met Lacey in 9th grade, then Keri through Lacey and Annie through the two of them. 

Annie was the type of person that lit up a room when she entered. She was the life of the party, and had an unbelievable love for life and everyone around her. She was truly an amazing person. She was a Christian. A child of God, a daughter, a sister, an aunt, that was taken incredibly too soon. Annie lived to dance and for her Sorority, Alpha Gamma Delta. 

Since her passing, her Alpha Gamma Delta sisters have put on a charity dance event in memory of Annie. Last year I was in Charlotte for Cameron's best friends wedding and couldn't attend, but I was there this year and it was amazing. Seeing everyone there for Annie, and doing what Annie loved best, Dancing was beyond words. Her family was there, the whole sorority, girls she had danced with growing up, and tons of friends. It was truly an honor to be in the presence of all of these people and to share the love of Annie with everyone. They raised over $2,000.00 for the Annie Morgan Mcleod Scholarship at UNCW. (AWESOME!)

The point is, we're not guaranteed another day in this life of ours. So love you love, and tell them often. Because I certainly didn't think that seeing Annie at the beach bars at Wrightsville Beach one night on the way to meet up with Cameron would be the last time that I would see her. I'll always cherish the hug she gave me and the "call me if you get crunk and need a ride" that she told me. That was Annie. Always looking out for everyone else.

We love you Annie Morgan Mcleod. Thanks for being our guardian angel. 

Jason's Choreo- "Halo"

The link above is to a video of a dance that Jason Williams, one of Annie's best friends (and one of my friends). He choreographed this dance and it was shown at the 1st Annual AMM Dance Event. He lives in Los Angeles (right down the street from where I used to live!) And dances for a living. It's a very touching video. 

<3 you AMM. Always in hearts, never forgotten.

Back Country Roads

First, I would like to say that I feel the need to shout from a mountain top that I'm so happy I am now living in the "era" of GPS devices, iPhones, and "smart" technology. 


Secondly, I had a few rather entertaining stories of traveling between Lumberton to Wilmington and thought that my family and I shouldn't be the only ones to find how humorous they are. 


First trip home from Lumberton:
On my first trip home from Lumberton, while driving along NC Hwy 87, there are all the gorgeous farms loaded with crops. Cotton fields are everywhere, and even some giant fields that are used as pastures. One such field caught my eye while driving by, there was some sort of machine spraying what I thought was water onto the field. Upon slowing down (because, of course, there's never that much traffic) I saw that this machine looked like a tri-pod for an old video camera and was shooting what I now could see was some sort of brown mystery water out of it. I thought to myself, "This is so cool. I would never be able to see things like this if I were still living in Wilmington, or Los Angeles." After I got home, mom hopped in the car and we rode to Rocky Point to see my grandparents (Wayway and Papa). Papa grew up on a farm, and still lives on one, so I knew he would be able to tell me what the odd tri-pod machine was that I had seen on the way home. So I explained to him in detail everything I had seen. Papa then looked at me and said, "You do know what that was being sprayed outta there don't you?"
My reply: "It was brown, maybe some type of fertilizer?"
Papa: "It was hog shit." 
Me: "Oh. Fertilizer it was."


I couldn't believe that I had been basking in how amazing it was so see something like that. I had been excited to see hog shit flying out of a machine. 


Trip home number 3
Yesterday I realized that I needed some things from home and decided to go down just for the night and come back this afternoon. Last time I got stuck in horrible traffic on a Friday afternoon on I-74 10 miles from my house so I decided to kill 2 birds with one stone and put Wayway and Papa's address in the GPS as my destination. One, I'd get to see them and two, I'd avoid the crazy traffic by detouring through Rocky Point. So off I went. 
Everything was great, driving along singing to my 90's music remix and following the way of the GPS. The route I was going was basically the same as if I was going to my mom's but I turned off onto Elwell Ferry Road before I came to Riegalwood. So I turned left onto Elwell Ferry and kept going. 
All of a sudden, I was slowing down and realizing that there was no more road. 
Yes, that's right, I said there was NO more ROAD. (Come on, you can't be as shocked as I was).
I looked up at Judy (GPS) and saw her depiction of the road ending, a creek starting, then the road beginning on the other side of the creek. Judy neglected, however, to tell me how to get across the creek. Me being me, I had no idea what to do. And of course I haven't had my car outfitted to turn into a speed boat (although I'm really considering it now). So I then think maybe, it's a very tiny one lane bridge like in Sunset Beach.... That thought leaves my mind when I look around and see a sign that says "FERRY: 6 PASSENGERS PER CAR PER TRIP" 


Oh. 


A Ferry. 


Okay, I can handle that. Straining my neck to look for the ferry, I can't see one. I figured I should at least be able to see it, because ferries are normally a large type of vessel. All of a sudden, a stop sign that is attached to what looks like a Rail Road Crossing sign goes up, and a truck drives out. Now I was intrigued. How in the world did that truck cross the creek?!?!
Luckily for me, there was a car in front of me. So I followed their lead. I edged up to the sign and saw what looked like something straight out of the "we just figured out what steam could to for engines industrial revolution". This "FERRY" was not as long as some Trailors are wide. There was no way my car was going to fit on there along with the car in front of me. 
Then, the man operating the "ferry" said something in a country accent so broken and barely recognizable that I couldn't understand what he had said. But, he did wave his arm motioning me to come down... So I did. Now I'm hoping that the ferry is free, because of course I don't have cash on me... (maybe my looks would work?) So now I'm on the ferry. He starts it up and we head straight across. I get off, drive half a mile, and turn onto Hwy 53 on my way to Rocky Point. 


Never, ever in my life did I think I would have been in these two situations. 
Papa (ever full of wisdom and knowledge) later told me that the ferry was the Carver Creek Ferry and was free since the state operated it. He also said that he and Wayway had driven up there one day to go on the ferry but they wouldn't let them because the water was too high. The Ferry is pulled on a cable system setup under the water (there was no steering wheel). 


Small town North Carolina has a whole new meaning to me now. 
And, I also have new directions courtesy of Papa of how to get from Lumberton to Rocky Point without taking the ferry. 


You know, in case the water is too high. :)

School days, School days, dear old golden rule days...

For my official blog announcement, as of Friday August 13th I am a JUNIOR in college! I was accepted to the University of North Carolina at Pembroke! 

I also have a new apartment in Lumberton. Which is about 15 minutes away from Pembroke. It's a very cute little townhouse. 2 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms. My family and a couple of friends came up on Sunday and helped me to move everything in and Mom stayed until this morning to help me organize and decorate! And everything in finally coming together! 

On another note, classes start TOMORROW! I'm taking 13 hours and that equals 6 classes. 5 education classes, and 1 history. I declared elementary education (K-6) as my major and I will also be getting a minor in History. Which means after graduating and taking the Praxis 2 in History and passing it, I could be eligible to teach history/social studies in grades 6-12! So, more job opportunities after graduation! 

I'm SUPER EXCITED about starting classes tomorrow. I'm finally feeling so ready to get into this new part of my life. And I love having the support of my friends and family behind me. Especially Cameron. Although we're no longer a couple, he's still a big part of my life. And he's been so encouraging through out this whole process. Along with my mom, thanks to her I have a place to live! :)

I'll be sure to update about all of my classes sometime this week or next. 

First week back- The re-cap

What a week (and a few days) it has been! I flew into RDU July 22 and I don't think I've stopped since.

First, I had Friday through Monday to go and see various friends and family that I hadn't seen since April. Which was awesome. Including my 2 year old little man nephew. He is so FUNNY! He almost had a heart attack when I walked in, and said "Aunt Kawa" about 500000 times. (Roughly). We had a great visit.

Tuesday, my things from California arrived on the moving truck at SEVEN FORTY FIVE IN THE MORNING! My sleeping schedule is still messed up from the time change... and Tuesday REALLY messed me up. But, I got through almost all of the boxes that morning and afternoon. I had rearranged my room the day before and I just really needed to unpack and place things where I wanted them. Cameron also has a nice box that I get to mail him next week. It's full of things that I took that I thought were mine... Oops! But, that's what he gets for not supervising my packing.

Wednesday there was more unpacking and shopping at Target for organizational items. I have a very VERY small room so finding places for things can sometimes be tricky. Cameron actually came into Wilmington on Wednesday to see his brother and some friends. He came by and saw me for about an hour and a half. It was great seeing him. In a way I think we both needed that.

Thursday my car arrived. In a torrential down pour of rain. Seriously, I have not seen that much rain since January. I came from the land of LA. No rain. Mom and I left to go meet the guy in the mall parking lot, the trailer was so huge that we had to meet there. Even just walking from our porch to the car at the house, we were soaked. Standing outside under a crappy umbrella, in rain that was getting all Forrest Gump on us and going in ALL directions, we ended up coming home, changing, and walking back outside to NO RAIN and BLUE SKIES. ughh I was not happy. But I was THRILLED to be able to drive MY car. Friday mom and I spent all day dealing with car issues. By this, I mean going to Burgaw for an inspection... finding out that I didn't needed inspected until November. Drive back to Wilmington to go to the insurance place to get new insurance in my name. (Mom switched the title of the car to my name, and I had insurance in Cali) Got the insurance and went to the DMV (because now that the car is in MY name, of course I have to have new tags- great- I JUST learned the old license tag number.) Get to the DMV and what do you know, I DO have to have the car inspected because the last time it was inspected was under Mom's name. I have to have it done under MY name. Lovely. This is at 3:30pm- DMV closes at 5. Luckily there was a auto shop directly across the street, so we went there, got it inspected, back to the DMV and BAM, new tags. But at least that was finally done, and we don't have to worry about it again.

Tonight was a huge surprise birthday party for one of my best friends (Marcus) his dad. His Dad was just told that he had 2 inoperable brain tumors last month, and had already undergone a lung removal and chemotherapy for Lung cancer earlier this year. He had NO clue about the party. It was such a great time. (And food!)

I'm really excited about the upcoming weeks. I have a couple of trips planned into one 4-5 day stent across NC. I'll be heading to Pilot Mountain to see best friend Keri and her family August 10-13. The 13th I'm heading to Asheboro to see Dora (Cameron's mom, but there's no way I'm letting her out of my life. She's just too AWESOME). The 14th I'm heading back home and stopping to visit friends Steven and Heidi near Fuquay to see them and their new precious daughter, Cara! (Pronounced like my  name, just with a C, and I can overlook the C as long as it's pronounced the Correct way!) Then home that night to celebrate my cousin Sarah's 22nd birthday. She moves to London in less than a month to start graduate school. (Although, to me she is still the sweet little pest that bothered the heck out of me, and strived to be just like me... luckily she's her own amazing person now!)

That's all for now. It's late, and I have to be at the 9am service in the morning! (Hopefully!)

But, as I'm sure you have gathered, I have had a productive first week and few days back Home.

On a happier note...

I know that the last post from a couple of hours ago was a little sad and unexpected... So I thought I'd blog about my trip home. 

I attend St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Wilmington, and have since I was a baby. Baptized, confirmed, and one day I'll get married there. Some of my best friends have come from St. Paul's. And so many life changing events were because of being a part of this church/youth group. I've been through hell and back with the people there. And they've been there for me through out some of the hardest times in my life. In recent years, I've had the privilege of meeting several new friends that I call my family. I have so many WONDERFUL and AMAZING friends from church. But I saw a post on another friends blog a few weeks ago where she called out a few people that meant a lot to her, and I am going to do the same. And for even more embarrassment, for the ones that do not follow the blog, I'll invite them!  So, here we go!

Norma- I don't remember exactly when I first met Norma, but I'm sure we just clicked. Over the years Norma has been there for me through so much. We've enjoyed many dinners and services on Wednesday nights. And joking about who we should save seats for at "our" table. She lived the apartment buildings down from me when I had my very first apartment. My favorite memory of Norma was when she was my Christ Kindl (secret santa type deal at St. Paul's). I had no idea it was her, and I couldn't make it to the reveal because of work. So she came all the way down to Mayfaire to bring me my final gift. And I think we both cried. She gave me a beautiful Angel that holds a candle. It was a candle to light on December 23, the day my father passed away. That holder traveled with me to each apartment I lived, and even to California. I'll never forget the meaning behind the Angel, or the great friend that gave it to me. 

Allison- I met Allison when I was on church council and was required to go to the New member's class meeting to talk about my role on church council. Allison was in the new members class and was going to be joining two weeks later. I paired up with her, and found that we had SO MUCH in common! She was a teacher, and I wanted to be a teacher. She was crafty, and I tried to be crafty. I decided that I would be her sponsor for the Sunday she would become a New Member of our church. After that, it was all over with! Allison has become the "Big Sis" (as I call her!) that I never had. She is such an amazing person and so motivated and driven to help children. I hope to always be able to call her my big sis! And that our friendship only grows stronger!

and last, but CERTAINLY not least... 

Emily- I'm not even sure where to begin when I think about the story behind Em and I. When I first met her, I had no idea that I would later become part of the Clamser Clan. Em has helped me through so so so many things. She was there when my grandma ann died, and my Dad. Em has provided me with many meals, shoulders for tears, a place to go for comfort, and so much more. I call her Mom. Because to me, that who she is. She's my second mom to whom I'm more than grateful for. (As is my own mother... sometimes I can be hard to handle, crazy to think.. I know). Through out the years, there's been some rough times, but she's always been there. No matter what time of day, where she was, where I was, or what she had to do in order to get to me. And she gave me a second family. 

To the three of you wonderful St. Paul's people, I love you and I hope you know that. And how much you mean to me. 

I may have to do this again... I might start to feel guilty if I don't talk about other wonderful people in my life. Especially from TEC (Teens Encounter Christ) and my wonderful best friends in general. We'll see what tomorrow's blogging holds! :)

An Update

I haven't really been looking forward to this post. Which is perhaps why I've put it off for a while... but seeing as somethings have changed, I feel that I should also update the blog. I don't get to see or talk to everyone who does keep up with me on here, and I won't be blabbing about it on Facebook. 


After moving to California to be with Cameron, we have decided to go our separate ways. It was not an easy decision to come to, and while it has shaken up both of our lives, for the two of us this was the right thing to do. And in no way was it a bitter break-up. (Just for clarification). 


As of July 22, I'm now a Wilmington resident again. I'm hoping to get into school to start and finish my bachelor's in elementary education. 


Even though it is the end of one chapter in my life, it is the beginning of a new one. And while this is a private matter, and it's mainly just between Cameron and myself, I won't be going into details for both mine and Cameron's sake anywhere online. I did just want to update on the things that had happened. I will also continue to blog about my life and what is going on with me! 


To all my friends and family- You all are amazing and awesome and I love you all dearly. 

Relay for Life....Santa Monica Style!

Well it's that time of year again... for me at least! Relay for Life was in April for Wilmington, NC. And for the first time since I was in 4th grade, and my senior year of high school (because I was grounded, but that's another story...) I missed RFL in Wilmington. And, of course, THIS was the year that my grandma (Wayway) and great aunt (Aunt Rose Jane) decided to participate. It's been 6 years this month since Wayway found out she had ovarian cancer, and one year since ARJ found out she had breast cancer. So naturally I was a little upset that I couldn't do the survivor lap with both of these amazing women. Especially since I'd wanted Wayway to participate since day one of her fight against cancer.

So, since I  missed out on RFL in Wilmington, Cameron saw a flyer while we were in Santa Monica a few weeks ago and showed it to me. The dates worked out with both of our schedules so I signed up.

Now here are some differences with RFL home and RFL here:
HOME: *Survivor's register for free and are not required to participate on a team or to raise money- but are encouraged to do so.
HERE: Survivor's register for free, but are required to raise a minimum of $100.00 in order to receive their event T-shirt and walk in the survivor's lap.

So, long story short, I registered. And I put a link on my Facebook and updated my status frequently about helping with donations and what not. Then at the beginning of the week, one week from RFL I had a $100 goal and $0 raised. So I put up another status. Then, to my shock and surprise I received an email from the American Cancer Society saying that my fundraising goal had been reached. I figured that a few people had made donations and that I got to $100. Wrong. My cousin Amanda, and her husband Nic donated $500.00 to RFL. Luckily I was seated, so I didn't need to worry about falling over. I immediately signed onto Facebook and grabbed Amanda on the chat feature. Thanked her for everything, and signed off. Miss Julie donated $25 and my Aunt Barbara and Uncle Tommy donated also.

So my grand total is $550.00 for RFL Santa Monica!

The walk starts tomorrow at 9am, survivor's lap at 9:30 and I'm sure Cameron and I will stay around and walk some laps and enjoy the activities that they have planned and what not. I'm excited to see what all they will have planned and everything. And really excited to walk in an event that is this big. I'll post pictures from the event after we get back and I get them uploaded!

Happy walking!

Recapping the last few days

I realize that it's been awhile since the last post! To which, I apologize! But it's been a little busy and crazy!

We had a great holiday weekend, including Cameron being off of work on Monday. Saturday night we went out in Santa Monica with a friend of his from Asheboro that also lives in LA. We were doing some early celebrating for her birthday and July 4th. Sunday we lounged by the pool for the afternoon, and then grilled some burgers on the George Forman and had our own little "mini" cookout! (Indoors!) Then with full stomachs we settled in on the couch to watch all of the different 4th of July firework specials on TV!

Today I'm cleaning up the apartment and hoping to get some laundry done if I can scrounge up some more quarters. I really hate coin-laundry. Although I'd hate it even more if I actually had to take it somewhere to get it done. So I shouldn't complain. But even when I lived in the dorm at UNCG there laundry facilities there took your "First Card" that UNCG supplied you with. Come on! It's 2010!!! Get another way of payment for those machines!  But maybe I'll get lucky and find some change in Cameron's pockets... or the couch. That's always a great place to look for spare change. !

Saturday Saturday Saturday!

Since I've moved to LA, Saturday and Sunday are the days I look forward to the most. Mainly because Cameron works 2 jobs during the day and night Monday-Friday. And on Saturday and Sunday (most of the time) we get to SEE each other. 


I've been "alone" since I left Cameron at the airport at 9:45am Thursday. And much to my relief, I've done quite well on my own in Los Angeles. I wouldn't want to do it all the time, but a few days, no problem. 


 I headed for the subway station that's a few blocks away to travel downtown to NBC4 Alive and Well LA's expo at the convention center. 


Now I really had some low expectations for this health fair expo. Sure they advertised that Mario Lopez and Dr. Robert Rey from E!'s show Dr. 90210 would be there, AND they were having free FREE health screenings. So 1, I thought that it would be full of homeless people. and 2, I figured that the "free stuff" wouldn't be anything that I could ever benefit from. 


BOY WAS I WRONG! I left with THREE reusable shopping bags! TONS of leaflets and brochures about different things, a couple of Breast Cancer Awareness pins for my Aunt Rose Jane, pens for Wayway from the Ovarian Cancer booth, AND I walked away knowing that I did NOT have kidney disease! All for a $1.25 train ticket! 


The kidney disease thing was great. I figured why not? My Dad had kidney failure, but his was due to all of the other crazy medicine he was on for the liver to not be rejected after the transplant. So the test couldn't hurt. Parts of the test were height and weight. Crazy lady nurse said I was 5'4" (WHAT?!?! I think not!) And I had LOST weight since the last time I climbed on a scale when we started working out at the gym. AWESOME! 


I came home, went and sat by the pool (and got in, even though that water is still freezing!) cooked a lasagna, cleaned up, and then settled in to listen to the Widespread Panic show online. Yes, the very same one that Cameron was there live for! It was so great to be able to listen! I love WSP as well. I was even on the WSP chat board (not chatting, just reading) just like Cameron. haha, needless to say he was impressed! 


Tomorrow I am going to sleep in! And finish cleaning. I actually created more of a mess while cleaning up tonight. Get that taken care of tomorrow. 
And I'm sure a visit to the pool will be in the schedule as well. There is NEVER anyone down there. It blows my mind. Great pool, great lounge chairs, and there's a huge wall in front so no one can see you. I love it! And they have tables and chairs and the tables have umbrellas, so It's really great for having lunch or dinner. 


Cameron comes back on Monday afternoon/evening. I think he had a fantastic 26th birthday tonight! 

Holy SNL Batman!

Most people that know me, understand my sense of humor. The people that don't get it, usually tend to walk the other way and think what in the world is her deal? 

Lucky for me, I currently live in LA. The land of the freaks, home of the weird. Everyone has a weird humor here. 

Saturday Night Live (SNL) is something I look forward to every Saturday night. Rerun, or a new episode, I'm tuned in. (Well... the DVR records it whether I manage to stay awake long enough or not). 

Yesterday I went into Studio City, CA which is right up the road from Hollywood. I was in desperate need of a Starbucks pick me up in the form of white chocolate mocha, double shot- please and for the love of everything don't you dare put whipcream on the top. As I walked in the door this lovely blonde was walking up to the line when all of a sudden teenage girls start screaming and digging in the tiny purses for their cameras. Really the only thing on my mind was "if they're going to take pictures, that means I can order next." I played nice and just tried to figure out who it was. Blonde-Skinny-Fancy shoes-sunglasses = famous. At least in this case, because people in Starbucks obviously knew who she was. I was apparently the only one out of the loop. She ordered  two drinks and paid. Then I finally placed my order and walked to the other end of the counter to wait patiently for my drink. 

As I was walking down, the bathroom door flew open and out skips Fred Armisen from SNL. Walks up to pretty blonde lady and BAM! I knew who she was! Abbey Elliot! BINGO!

So, there I am in Starbucks with two big SNL stars, and what do I do? Nothing. Camera was in my purse. I had a list that they could have signed. No, I just stood there. Who knows why. I love both of them on SNL but Andy Samburg is a personal fave. 

So, after 6 months of life in Hollywood I finally got to see people that I recognized. (Even if it took 10 minutes to figure it out) 

Sidenotes: Cameron's in Denver (Boulder, actually, for tonight) First Panic show tomorrow night. God love him. He could hardly sleep last night he was so excited. Like a child on Christmas Eve. I admit I was slightly annoyed because when he's restless, I don't sleep well either. But I couldn't help but to laugh at him when I dropped him off at the airport this morning. 

Tomorrow I think I'll head to see Toy Story (YES! AND in 3-D!!!) Perhaps another afternoon by the pool and who knows. :) 

Preparing for my weekend alone

Well, 
Cameron leaves on Thursday morning for Denver for three days of Widespread Panic concerts at Red Rocks... One of which will be June 26, when Cameron will be turning 26! A full moon, a Panic show at Red Rocks... half of me is glad I'm staying here... the other half is slightly jealous. BECAUSE, in the two years and change that we've been together, I have been turned on to the music of Widespread, and introduced to the whole world of PANIC. Eye opening- yes. Amazing music? YES. And What's Cameron's number one rule? Never miss a Sunday show. So, he'll be back on Monday. :)


On that note, I'm getting prepared for my four days alone. Most of which I intend to be pool-side or if the mood really strikes me, I may head for Santa Monica to lounge on the beach. However, that would require packing a cooler, sandwiches and snacks, sunscreen, towels AND paying $10 to park for the two hours that I would actually last on the beach by myself. 


So, I suppose a trip to Border's Books will be on my to-do list tomorrow or Thursday so that I'll be well prepared for the pool. 


I did manage to get the laundry done today so that he has clean clothes to pack tomorrow. I even offered to pack for him, but he declined. Saying something about how I would leave something out on purpose... (Where he got THAT idea, I haven't a clue! ha!) 


As for everything else, not much change. Heidi and Steven, two dear friends that I met at St. Paul's Lutheran who relocated to the Raleigh area just welcomed their first baby! Cara Brianne Craig was born on Father's day!! I'm still not positive on how they are pronouncing Cara... In my opinion it should be exactly like I say mine... but there are "Cara's" in the world that pronounce it "Car-uh" which unfortunately most every class I have ventured into was what my name turned into during Role Call. 24 years later, I survived. :) I'm SO happy for Heidi and Steven. They are going to be AMAZING parents and I can not WAIT to get my little hands on baby Cara!! (Too bad I'm lacking in the Gap Kids discount department now!) 


Speaking of that discount... My nephew, Keller Allan, to whom the award of "getting the most of Aunt Kara's discount" (Don't worry, niece Morgan is a VERY close 2nd)  goes to, will be turning TWO, I repeat, TWO YEARS OLD July 18. I still can't get over that. I had so much fun seeing him when I went home! He's FULL of energy and I can't get enough of that little redhead! 


I'm off to fold laundry and perhaps head to bed early.. ! 

Home sweet Home!

Well, I left LAX at 12:50am Tuesday "morning" and flew home to Wilmington for a week of visiting.
A little of an unplanned trip, but sometimes those are the best.
I've had a great time getting to see people that I haven't seen, and that I didn't get a chance to see the last time that I was home. And I get to see my precious nephew tomorrow! I can't get over the fact that he will be 2 years old in July! It's so amazing and crazy how fast they grow up!

I'm hoping to get to the beach for a day or two before I head back to Cali. And perhaps get rid of the sock line tan and tank top tan that I have from doing the Canyon behind our apartment! We'll see how that works out.

Plus, driving to the beach in Wilmington requires less patience and not as many bad words coming out of my mouth, which is what normally happens in California. :)

Job Interview

Well I just got back from an interview at YAS Fitness Center in Silverlake. Silverlake is 15 minutes from Hollywood. It was actually about 3 minutes from where I was a nanny. So at least I sort of knew where I was going. Although I did program the GPS to get me there. (And yes Dora, she was recalculating. Although not 5 times in 3 seconds like she did with us!). So I showed up and walked into a quaint little yoga studio. This place actually specializes in yoga for athletes and spinning classes. So it's not the typical yoga place. The interview went really well and I was confident when I left. So we shall see what happens.

Dora (Cameron's mom) came out to visit May 19-25. We had such a wonderful time! It was her first time out to see us, and so we had lots to show her and of course, she and I had a lot of places to shop!
We really did have such a great time. And I know Cameron was so happy that she was able to come out!

Now we're in for a four day weekend! Cameron has Monday off for Memorial Day. I'm hoping we'll be able to get to the beach or at least be lazy by the pool one day! I've got this awesome tan from walking in Runyon Canyon. And I need to work on that! :) Not as bad as Cameron's golf tan though! He has me beat on that one!

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend! I'll be sure to update about the job if I hear anything!

Also, Many thanks to Jaclyn's blog... Shabby Blogs kept me entertained and made my Blog pretty :)

A new week! Full of exciting things!

Andrew left on Friday to head back to Wilmington, NC after a 4 day visit! We had a blast! He even got to do a little surfing in Malibu! Cameron and I have had a pretty un-eventful weekend besides his iPhone breaking. Just the screen, and he's ordered a repair kit on Amazon to hopefully fix it himself instead of paying $199.00 for the Apple "Geniuses" to fix it. 


Tomorrow I'm going to be cleaning like crazy and doing a mountain of laundry that I've been ignoring. Dora (Cameron's mom) flies in Wednesday afternoon! She'll be staying for a few days. We are very excited that she is coming- she hasn't made it out here yet so it will be exciting for her to see everything out here as well!

G-mail makes my life simple

Now, I've tried this blogging thing before, and to my knowledge, the other one I have still exists but I can't remember how to get to it, and if I did, I wouldn't know the username or password. Thus, a new one.

Which actually works better because it's attached to my G-mail account. So as long as I'm on my computer, there's no need to remember usernames or passwords. So it works better for me this way.

I went back home to Wilmington, NC April 27-May 1. Got to see a lot of my family and a few friends. Keri Dawn even came down from Greenville just to see me!! And that was Fabulous! I was totally in need of some girl time. Don't get me wrong, I love living in LA, and Cameron... but I haven't been lucky enough to find my "go to girl" for LA. I loved being able to spend time with my mom, and going shopping! Although we did go a little over board. But, as I have put on several pounds since August 2009, I immediately went through everything I have here in LA and took two huge bags full to Good Will. (Yay me! Good deed!)

After doing that, I actually had room for what my wonderful Mother got me in Wilmington.

The only bad thing that happened on my trip home was losing my Nanny job. Friday mom and I ran to a coffee shop downtown and the phone rang, it was Stacey the mother that I was working for. It went to voicemail and I called back once I got to the car. Apparently they are going through some financial issues and had to let me go. At the time I was perplexed about the situation. 1- the money was amazing, 2- I had applied to Gap Kids here in LA for the same job I had in NC and was hoping to get that after 4 interviews (Including a phone interview with the district manager!) So by the family letting me go, it made the situation easier if I got the job with Gap. However, Gap decided that they didn't want me as a manager in the same job that I had before, but as a sales associate making less money than before and with no guarantee of the amount of hours I would have. So, Cameron and I decided it would be best to look for something else.

Long story short, it's been two weeks and I still have no leads. But the resume has been dusted off and here's to hoping to find SOMETHING!

Andrew, a friend from church that I grew up with came to Visit on Monday and leaves tomorrow. First time to LA and he's loved it!

I really hope I actually keep up with this, this time. Thanks G-mail!