The Best Is Yet To Come

Merry Christmas Eve all! Can you believe it? My how time goes by! It feels like it was just yesterday when my family and I were getting matching tattoos for Christmas!

This past year sure was a roller coaster ride for me but I couldn't wish for a better ending. Since I will be spending the rest of the year with family and the beginning of the new year with friends, I will not post until next year. So with that, here is a little recap of my life this past year:

January- This is actually when my family and I got our matching tattoos. Talk about family bonding! I started my first "big girl job" at Sedgwick CMS. At the time I was dating Justin and his best friend Amanda got me the gig. I was working at Longhorn for most of the month and life drastically changed for me by the end of the month when I began my new job. While I was a server, I was partying every night and waking up past 11am. When I started working 7:30am to 4pm, my sleeping patterns definitely changed. Although I miss going out with the Longhorn girls, I've saved a lot of money and probably my health too.

February- Luke celebrated his 20th birthday and my Dad celebrated his 52nd. I went to my first Supercross race in Atlanta. Jen, my little sister in my sorority asked me to be a Bridesmaid for her upcoming wedding this April (2010). I started to play on a co-ed softball team at North Park. I got my insurance license. Boy was that insurance class a bore! I got my iPhone- I remember because you could not have found me without it. I was always playing wurdle and reMovem and was playing on the internet and on Facebook. It sure came in handy during that insurance class!

March- This month was a rough one for me physically. My foot problems began to get worse and I had to get shots in the bottom of my feet nearly once a week for my Plantar Fasciitis. I also got these awful foot splints that I am supposed to wear. I also found out that Aaron and Coley were pregnant on the way to our Stoney River dinner for Mother's Day... how fitting!

April- I decided to donate my hair again. Although I did not donate as much as last time, it still felt pretty darn good. I went to the Fleetwood Mac concert, courtesy of my second employer 97.1 The River, where I ran into several sorority sisters outside the show. My family and I also spent our first Easter in Macon, which was also my first visit to Luke's house down there. We had a blast playing football and Bocce ball.

May- I got my motorcycle permit again. We took out the Vespas a lot in the nice spring weather. At the end of the month, I frequently attended pool parties and made several trips to the lake. It was a lovely month since it was not too hot. My parents and I started to argue more, which was very difficult for me since I am very close to my family.

June- My Mom turned 52. I decided to move out of my parent's house and live on my own. I had lived at home for 2 years after being away for college and decided it would be best to be on my own again. My old friend Carol got hitched at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens. I was also a bridesmaid in Ashley and Brandon's wedding at the end of the month. I attended all of Ashley's showers and bachelorette party. What a fun month it was!

July- This was by far the toughest month of the year for me. Although it started off well, with our first annual Insana Family Reunion in Ohio. Family from Ohio, Michigan, New York, and Georgia all came together and we had a blast! A couple days after my return home, Justin broke up with me and I experienced my first heartache. Looking back, it was definitely a blessing in disguise though! The only thing I really miss from this relationship were some of the friends that I lost in the process. Although I did find out that some of them started drama and gossip, so who needs them anyway? Our softball team won the Championship at the end of the month. I also got promoted at work this month, which I was thrilled about since I had only been working for the company for 6 months! I frequently went out, went to pool parties, and went on dates and had an overall blast by the end of the month.

August- This was a huge month for my family. Aaron and Coley got married on August 9th. I was a bridesmaid and we had a wonderful time at the wedding! It was so good to have family in town. The bachelor/bachelorette parties were awesome! I turned 25 the day after the wedding. Although I felt like my birthday was being overlooked, my best friends Ashley and Christina threw me a surprise birthday party that was truly amazing. They even invited some of my family and friends that they never hung out with. Tyler turned 20 this month and Aaron turned 27. I also went to "Shoot the Hooch" down the Chattahoochee in a tube, which was a great time with old friends from West Georgia. I also got baptized - what a wonderful experience!

September- I spent most of my weekends on the lake on the huge houseboats in Cocktail Cove. I spent most of my time on Barry's boat, drinking and dancing. My Mother and I also took a road trip to Kentucky and picked up my new bundle of joy- Bella. Jack was not a happy camper about this. I also began to start running again because my feet had been getting much better.

October- I went down to Savannah for Katie and Stephan's wedding this month. It was definitely an unforgettable trip and it was so nice to hook back up with some old West Georgia sorority sisters and friends. I also ran the Kaiser Permanente 5k with my friend Greg. The Halloween parties this year were the best I've been to. Brandon and Ashley's was epic and I had my picture taken a lot ;).

November- This month our family friend Janet turned 40! I ran the Strong Legs 10k in the beginning of the month with my friend Steve. I went up to Lake Burton and to the farm for Thanksgiving and saw my Dad's side of the family. I rode my first dirtbike! My cousin got engaged that weekend. She is pregnant too. It is amazing to see our family begin to grow. I love it! I frequented church a lot this month too.

December- The beginning of this month started out rough. I got the flu, which I hadn't gotten in years. I began exclusively dating Jason and the poor guy had to see me in my worst condition. It was definitely a bonding experience! Then, I got him sick. I felt so bad! We went to several Christmas parties which were a lot of fun! We went to our first Thrasher's game together last week. He will be joining my family tonight for Christmas Eve... I still can't believe tomorrow is Christmas! Then on Sunday we leave for Chicago to ring in the New Year with his family and some of my friends from Ohio and New York...


Although I was challenged a lot this year, I could not have made it through without the love and support of my family and friends. There were so many twists and turns and ups and downs but I am so thankful for the way things have ended up. This year has really shown me how AMAZING God truly is and that everything works out the way He planned, not us. I believe that this is the year that I found myself and truly began living. I am so thankful and blessed to have you all in my life! And as the saying goes... THE BEST IS YET TO COME!

Merry Christmas!!! <3

This is what happens when I get too excited about something...

About a week and a half ago, my Sony camera died. If you are my friend then you are well aware that I carry my camera with me everywhere and am a picture whore, if you will. I was extremely upset and was on a mission to find a new companion to record my memories.

Over the weekend, Jason and I went to Best Buy to look for cameras. I began to look at the new Nikon s70 with the touch screen. I decided that I should look online and check out other cameras and prices and make a decision in the beginning of the week. On Monday, we went back to Best Buy to buy the camera but they were sold out. We made it to Wolf Camera right before they closed and were told to come back tomorrow and they would match the Best Buy price. Man, all I wanted was that darn camera and now it had been nearly 2 weeks without one! Anyway, the next day we went to Wolf Camera and I finally got my new, red Nikon s70... it was beautiful!

We immediately got home and I plugged up the camera to charge the battery and read the whole manual, cover to cover. Since it was about bedtime, I could not play with my new toy because it wasn't charged. How sad!

The next morning on my way to work I decided that it would be a fabulous idea to play with my new camera while driving on my way to work (or to at least play with the settings). As I turned on my camera, the language screen popped up. Being a touch screen camera, all I had to do was to push the English setting and I was good to go. Now, I know this sounds like an easy step but I was trying to pay attention to the road and to the camera. All of a sudden I look down and noticed that I accidently made the camera language Greek instead of English. Ultimate fail!

This was the point where I was sorry that I "Go Greek" and didn't know Greek. I remembered some of the letters from sorority days but by no means can read it. I nearly wrecked trying to figure out how to change it back (thank goodness I am a fabulous and responsible driver and paid attention to the road well).

So of course, my first mission at work was to change the language back to English. About 20 minutes later, I finally figured it out and was good to go.

Moral of the story? Sometimes I get a little too excited about new toys. Pictures from my new camera to come soon! :)

Interesting facts

I love to to find out how things come about and why some things are the way they are. I received an email today that went along well with the previous post, so I figured I'd share it with you...

INTERESTING STUFF


In the 1400's a law was set forth in England
that a man was allowed to beat his wife
with a stick no thicker than his thumb.
Hence we have 'the rule of thumb'

------------

Many years ago in Scotland, a
new game was invented.
It was ruled 'Gentlemen Only...
Ladies Forbidden'... and thus,
the word GOLF entered
into the English language.

-----------

The first couple to
be shown in bed together
on prime time TV was
Fred and Wilma Flintstone.

------------

Every day more money
is printed for Monopoly
than the U.S. Treasury.

------------

Men can read smaller
print than women can;
women can hear better.

------------

Coca-Cola was
originally green.

------------

It is impossible to
lick your elbow.

------------

The State with the
highest percentage of
people who walk to work:

Alaska

------------

The percentage of
Africa that is wilderness: 28%
(now get this...)

------------

The percentage of
North America that is wilderness: 38%

------------

The cost of raising
a medium-size dog to the age of eleven:

$ 16,400

------------

The average number of people
airborne over the U.S.
in any given hour:

61,000

------------

Intelligent people
have more zinc and copper
in their hair.

------------

The first novel ever
written on a typewriter:

Tom Sawyer

------------

The San Francisco
Cable cars are the only mobile
National Monuments.

------------

Each king in a deck of playing cards
represents a great king from history:


Spades - King David


Hearts - Charlemagne


Clubs - Alexander, the Great


Diamonds - Julius Caesar

------------

111,111,111 x
111,111,111 =
12,345,678,987, 654,321

------------

If a statue in the
park of a person on a horse
has both front legs in the air,
the person died in battle.
If the horse has one front leg in the air,
the person died because
of wounds received in battle.
If the horse has all four legs
on the ground, the person died
of natural causes

------------

Only two people signed the
Declaration of Independence on July 4:
John Hancock and Charles Thomson.
Most of the rest signed on August 2,
but the last signature
wasn't added until 5 years later.

------------

Q. Half of all Americans live
within 50 miles of what?


A. Their birthplace

------------

Q.. Most boat owners name their boats.
What is the most popular boat name requested?


A. Obsession

------------

Q. If you were to spell out numbers,
how far would you have to go until you
would find the letter 'A'?


A. One thousand

------------

Q. What do bulletproof vests,
fire escapes,
windshield wipers
and laser printers
have in common?


A. All were invented
by women.

------------

Q. What is the only
food that doesn't spoil?


A. Honey

-----------

Q. Which day are
there more collect calls
than any other day of the year?


A. Father's Day

------------

In Shakespeare's time,
mattresses were secured on bed frames by ropes.
When you pulled on the ropes, the mattress tightened,
making the bed firmer to sleep on.
Hence the phrase...
'Goodnight , sleep tight'

------------

It was the accepted practice
in Babylon 4,000 years ago
that for a month after the
wedding, the bride's father
would supply his son-in-law
with all the mead he could drink.
Mead is a honey beer and
because their calendar
was lunar based, this period
was called the honey month,
which we know today as
the honeymoon..

------------

In English pubs, ale
is ordered by pints and quarts...
So in old England, when
customers got unruly, the bartender
would yell at them 'Mind
your pints and quarts, and settle down.'


It's where we get
the phrase 'mind your P's and Q's'

------------

Many years ago in England,
pub frequenters had a whistle
baked into the rim, or handle,
of their ceramic cups..
When they needed a refill,
they used the whistle
to get some service.
'Wet your whistle'
is the phrase
inspired by this practice.

------------

At least 75% of people who read
this will try to lick their elbow!

------------

YOU
KNOW YOU ARE LIVING IN 2009 when....

1. You accidentally enter your PIN on the microwave.

2. You haven't played solitaire with real cards in years.

3. You have a list of 15 phone numbers to reach your family of three.

4. You e-mail the person who works at the desk next to you.

5.Your reason for not staying in touch
with friends and family is
that they don't have e-mail addresses.

6. You pull up in your own driveway and
use your cell phone to see if anyone is
home to help you carry in the groceries.

7. Every commercial on television has
a web site at the bottom of the screen

8. Leaving the house without your cell phone,
which you didn't even have the first 20 or 30 (or 60)
years of your life, is now a cause for
panic and you turn around to go and get it.

10. You get up in the morning and
go on line before getting your coffee

11. You start tilting your head sideways to smile. : )

12 You're reading this and nodding and laughing.

13. Even worse, you know exactly to
whom you are going to forward this message.

14. You are too busy to notice
there was no #9 on this list.

15. You actually scrolled back up
to check that there wasn't a #9 on this list

~~~~~~~~~~AND FINALLY~~~~~~~~~~

NOW U R LAUGHING at yourself.

Go on, forward this to your friends.

You know you want to!

Go lick your elbow.

12 Days of Christmas

A little history for you. You learn something new every day:

There is one Christmas Carol that has always baffled me. What in the world do leaping lords, French hens, swimming swans, and especially the partridge who won't come out of the pear tree have to do with Christmas?

This week, I found out.

From 1558 until 1829, Roman Catholics in England were not permitted to practice their faith openly. Someone during that era wrote this carol as a catechism song for young Catholics. It has two levels of meaning: the surface meaning plus a hidden meaning known only to members of their church. Each element in the carol has a code word for a religious reality which the children could remember.

-The partridge in a pear tree was Jesus Christ.

-Two turtle doves were the Old and New Testaments.

-Three French hens stood for faith, hope and love.

-The four calling birds were the four gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke & John.

-The five golden rings recalled the Torah or Law, the first five books of the Old Testament.

-The six geese a-laying stood for the six days of creation.

-Seven swans a-swimming represented the sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit--Prophesy, Serving, Teaching, Exhortation, Contribution, Leadership, and Mercy.

-The eight maids a-milking were the eight beatitudes.

-Nine ladies dancing were the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit--Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self Control.

-The ten lords a-leaping were the ten commandments.

-The eleven pipers piping stood for the eleven faithful disciples.

-The twelve drummers drumming symbolized the twelve points of belief in the Apostles' Creed.

So there is your history for today. This knowledge was shared with me and I found it interesting and enlightening and now I know how that strange song became a Christmas Carol...so pass it on if you wish.

Merry (Twelve Days of) Christmas Everyone!!!

The Evolution Question

In the third debate hosted by CNN on June 5, 2007, Mike Huckabee responded with great eloquence about his stand on creation, evolution, and God's role in that process.

In my opinion, this is one of the best responses I have ever heard in regards to the evolution question. I thought his answer was very well put after "Wolf" asked if he "literally" believed that God created in 6 days. Huckabee goes onto say if anyone wants to believe that they are descendants from a primate, they are more than welcomed to it but that we are unique creations of a God who knows us and loves us and created us for His own purpose. WOW!!!!

Life Lessons

Regina Brett's 45 Life Lessons and 5 to Grow On
By: Regina Brett
Sunday May 28, 2006, 10:13 AM
To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me.
(Sent to me via an email. I don't know who Regina Brett is but her list is too lovely not to share. Plus, she wrote it for a column in The Plain Dealer, my hometown newspaper in Cleveland, Ohio.)

It is the most-requested column I've ever written. My odometer rolls over to 50 this week, so here's an update:

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.

3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

4. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

5. Pay off your credit cards every month.

6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.

8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.

9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.

10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.

11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.

13. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.

15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.

16. Life is too short for long pity parties. Get busy living, or get busy dying.

17. You can get through anything if you stay put in today.

18. A writer writes. If you want to be a writer, write.

19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.

20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.

21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.

22. Overprepare, then go with the flow.

23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.

24. The most important sex organ is the brain.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: "In five years, will this matter?"

27. Always choose life.

28. Forgive everyone everything.

29. What other people think of you is none of your business.

30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.

31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

32. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.

33. Believe in miracles.

34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.

35. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.

36. Growing old beats the alternative - dying young.

37. Your children get only one childhood. Make it memorable.

38. Read the Psalms. They cover every human emotion.

39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.

40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.

41. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.

42. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.

43. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.

44. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

45. The best is yet to come.

46. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

47. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.

48. If you don't ask, you don't get.

49. Yield.

50. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.

All I Want for Christmas is a Pink Toy Chainsaw

As I was driving to work this morning I was thinking about how fast time has flown by. I can not believe it is already almost Christmas 2009. Seriously, where does the time go?! I was thinking back to how magical Christmas used to be when I believed in Santa Claus...

To be honest, I must have been one weird child because I remember asking for some of the strangest things for Christmas. My yearly request was a sister, but Santa (at the mall) told me that I needed to ask my Mom. I never understood why. Boy are kids funny! Anyway, my older brother, Aaron, was my hero and I wanted to be just like him. So when he would write his Christmas list to Santa, set out his milk and cookies, and went to bed- I did just the same. I copied everything he did and requested all the things he wanted because I wanted to be just like him. Actually, let me take that back. I requested everything he wanted... but in PINK!

So one year, I must have been 5 or 6, for some strange reason Aaron wanted a toy chainsaw for Christmas. He must have seen my Dad using one and wanted one for himself. So I remember that Christmas when all I wanted was a pink toy chainsaw. My Mom kept telling me that Santa has a lot of requests and that he might not give me a pink one but he would surely give me one that I would like. This was unacceptable to me because I wanted a pink one. As we were opening our presents, I opened one after another but there was no pink chainsaw. Finally, there was one present left. I opened the present and lo and behold there was my beautiful pink toy chainsaw, wrapped up in all it's glory. You can imagine my excitement and I immediately opened up the box and began playing with it. Aaron and I were running around with our chainsaws and we were the happiest little kids alive.

I have no idea how my Mother actually located a pink toy chainsaw (she didn't even have to paint it!). I guess that's just the magic of Christmas.

It's memories like this that remind me how grateful and blessed I am for my family. I can not wait to spend this Christmas with them, all sitting around the tree, opening presents and drinking eggnog. And next year is going to be especially fun because I will have a new neice or nephew to spoil. ((sigh)) I love Christmas!

Taking Out The Trash

The past couple of months I have had an itch to start going back to church more frequently. I have been trying to make more of an effort and I was even baptized this past summer. I guess I used the "I'm too busy" excuse and at one point, pretty much stopped going all together. I kept telling myself that I needed to change, but did not put forth much of an effort. So yesterday I thought that I should go to Free Chapel's Wednesday night service, which is a decision I'm very glad I made.

Yesterday, I was supposed to hang out with my neighbor Lori but she emailed me last minute and explained that she had to cancel our plans because something came up. Usually on Wednesday nights I have softball but the season just ended and my night had an unexpected opening. I remembered that my favorite church, Free Chapel in Gainesville, has a Wednesday night service. Although there are many other things that I could have gotten done around the house... vacuuming, laundry, cleaning, finishing the book I've been wanting to finish... I decided that I may as well put it all off one more day so I could make it to church. I had an inner battle with myself regarding the near hour drive to and from church but I knew I wouldn't be able to go to church much in the next couple of weeks (due to the holidays, parties, etc.) so I really felt I needed to go. So there I was, driving at 6pm trying to make it to church by 7pm.

To be honest, when I first arrived to church I was very nervous. The first thing I thought was that Justin's parents go to church at Free Chapel for the Wednesday night service and I did not want to run into them. I haven't seen them since we broke up and I knew that it would be very awkward. Lord only knows what he told them- not that I care, but still. Anyway, I found a seat in the front center and plopped my bottom down. A feeling of relief came over me and I was glad that I decided to come.

The first 20 or 30 minutes we spent worshiping. This is my favorite part of the church service because even though I'm in a room that is crowded with people I still feel like I'm in my own place, just me and God. Worship last night was beautiful and I got into it more than ever. Closing my eyes and praising Him.

After worship, Jentezen Franklin took the stage and began speaking. The sermon was about Taking Out The Trash. In other words, cleansing our spirits. He read from 2 Corinthians 6 & 7 and from 2 Chronicles 29.

I think this sermon affected me so much because I have had a lot of emotions and stuff build up this past year. A lot has happened and instead of working through it, I just shut my feelings out, figuring that they would dissapate on their own. I am one of those people that always sees the glass half full and figured that I should not waste my time being upset over the past and moved on. I never realized how good it would feel to "take out the trash" and let those feelings go. Last night, as I was sitting in church, I decided that it was time to forgive all of those who have done me wrong. I will not be bitter, upset, or waste any more time thinking about those who have hurt me in my past for it is them who have made me who I am today, and for that I am thankful.

I think it is ironic that the sermon was titled "Taking Out the Trash" because that's what Justin's upcoming business is all about. He is starting a trash pick-up service for apartment complexes. That business caused such a strain in our relationship and his relationship with my family. I feel like it is another one of God's ways to tell me to let it go- to trash it. Not to say that I am not over him, because trust me I am, but boy does God have a sense of humor.

Afer the service was over, I walked out of church with an overwhelming sense of relief. I was no longer nervous to run into his parents- and glad that I didn't. It felt so good to let go of everything that was bubbling over inside and to trash all my negative feelings that have been holding me down. It was as if a burden was removed from my soul. I can't even tell you how good it felt.

So now I ask, have you taken out your trash lately?

Cyber Monday

If you are my friend, you already know that I love to shop, which is why today is quite significant to me. Today is Cyber Monday! It is the Black Friday for online deals. Online shopping is one of life's greatest pastimes, so go online today and buy some great stuff at great prices. You know I already did!

National Kick A Ginger Day- Nov. 20

Being a Ginger myself, when I heard on the news about National Kick A Ginger Day I was quite amused at first. Although I don't really watch TV, I did happen to catch the South Park episode referring to Gingers. In case you didn't know, according to the episode, Gingers are "people with red hair, freckles, and pale skin - are disgusting, inhuman, inherently dumb, have no souls, and are unable to survive in sunlight." I can appreciate that type of humor and I thought nothing of it, knowing that it is just a silly TV show. That is until I heard about all those who took it upon themselves to act violently towards "Gingers" by beating up redheaded children at school on National Kick a Ginger Day, which began from that South Park episode.



The following article is only one of the many regarding this past Nov. 20, Kick A Ginger Day:

Kids Attack Redheads on 'Kick a Ginger' Day
By Katherine Thompson| Posted Nov 23, 08 4:31 PM CST

Inspired by a Facebook page, kids in Vancouver spent a day kicking and punching redheads for fun, the Vancouver Sun reports. Trouble is, being hit hurts. "I was amazed by the amount of people that kicked me," said 13-year-old Aaron Mishkin, who figures he was assaulted about 80 times. An online group promoting "Kick a Ginger" day started it all.

The group's 14-year-old creator, who based the page on a South Park episode, apologized and said it was intended as a joke. But after students went home with injuries and 20 kids were suspended at one middle school, the RCMP is investigating the group, saying it may have spurred a hate crime. "It's really unprecedented," one cyber-bullying expert said.



This type of behavior really struck home because when I was younger I was made fun of a lot for having red hair and freckles. Being from Ohio and attending private schools, I was pretty much the only person in the entire school that was a redhead and I always got teased and made fun of. I got called carrot top, red hot, fire crotch, big red... you name it. Boy are kids cruel!

Now I look back at the names I was called and I laugh because people now compliment me more than ever for my red hair. I don't think I have ever gone into a hair salon without people commenting on how gorgeous and healthy my hair is. They always tell me that they can tell I don't dye it because of how shiny it is. I have even had several friends try to dye their hair my color, which we have learned is impossible to match (just ask my friend Meghan... poor thing!).

So for all you Gingers out there, keep your heads up and don't let anyone tell you that you are anything but beautiful.

As my idol Lucille Ball put it, "Once in his life, every man is entitled to fall madly in love with a gorgeous redhead."

Eve of the Eve

For those of you that don't know, I am going to Chicago for New Years to spend it with my best friend, Ashley (from NY). We try to spend every New Years together and this year we are visiting her brothers who live in Chicago. A couple of my other friends from NY are meeting us there as well. On Dec. 30th, we are going to a large black-tie event called Eve of the Eve. I have heard great things about it and can't wait. If you know me at all, you know that I love to dress up! Sooo excited! :)

Here are the details:



UNION STATION

The EVE of the EVE takes place the night before New Year's Eve and all proceeds benefit HighSight's scholarship program. This black-tie optional event offers more than 2,000 young, hip, urban professionals the opportunity to mix and mingle, while jump-starting their New Year's celebrations. The party takes over the entire Great Hall of Union Station, where guests enjoy cocktails, heavy hors d'oeuvres, a live band and dancing. This much-anticipated event is truly one of Chicagoland's hippest extravaganzas and the premiere holiday choice for partygoers year after year!

My Bucket List

I know I am young but figured I may as well write a list of things that I want to do before I die. Tomorrow is never promised! :) P.S. They are in no particular order.

1. Swim with a dolphin.
2. Learn to speak a foreign language.
3. Learn how to play an instrument, preferably the guitar.
4. Learn how to surf.
5. Visit Australia, Costa Rica, Paris, London and Thailand.
6. Move out of the country.
7. Learn to ballroom dance.
8. Fall deeply in love--helplessly and unconditionally-- and get married.
9. Have children.
10. Drive across America from sea to shining sea and see all 50 states.
11. Visit the Mall of America and shop my heart out.
12. Run with the bulls in Pamplona.
13. Drive the Autobahn and speed as much as I want.
14. Run a marathon.
15. Go on a hot air balloon ride.
16. Go snorkeling and scuba diving.
17. Visit the Holy Land.
18. Write a book. You know I have stories! :)
19. Ride in a helicopter.
20. Be on TV and on the radio.
21. Host a radio show.
22. Learn to cook well.
23. Dye my hair.
24. Learn to sew.
25. See the 7 Wonders of the World.
26. Adopt an orphan.
27. Send letters to a prisoner.
28. Set foot on each of the 7 continents.
29. Volunteer at a homeless shelter.
30. Go on a cruise.
31. Learn to become more artistic.
32. Go on a mission trip.
33. Teach a class.
34. Own my own house.
35. Stay in the ice hotel.
36. Complete a triathlon.
37. Go sailing.
38. Get my pilot's license.
39. Read the Bible from cover to cover.
40. Go on a safari.
41. Get a picture published.
42. Try fencing.
43. Swim with sharks.
44. Go to Mardi Gras in New Orleans.
45. Go couchsurfing.
46. Become a Wine Connoisseur.
47. Watch Turtles hatch and run for the ocean.
48. Participate in La Tomatina: Food Fight!
49. Collect something.
50. Buy something for someone that I can not even afford for myself.
51. Swim with stingrays.
52. Catch fresh Tuna and eat fresh sushi on a boat.
53. Go horseback riding on the beach.
54. Go para sailing.
55. Go base jumping.
56. Climb a pyramid.
57. Buy a round of drinks for everyone at the bar.
58. Tip a server an extra $100 for no reason.
59. Learn to drive a 5 speed.
60. See the Northern Lights.
61. Go rock climbing.
62. Save someone's life.
63. Go caroling.
64. Go to a film premiere.
65. Invent something.
66. Have a job that I love.
67. Free an animal.
68. Shower in a waterfall.
69. Be arrested for doing something I believe in.
70. Visit a desert.
71. Discover something that has never been discovered.
72. Become financially stable so I don't have to work again.
73. Walk for Breast Cancer.
74. Live on the water.
75. Take a vacation on a private yacht.
76. Stomp on Grapes.
77. Solve the Rubik's Cube.
78. Get my own motorcycle.
79. Take a spontaneous trip for no reason.
80. Become a Grandma.
81. Help someone in need.
82. Go dogsledding.
83. Become a cowgirl for a weekend.
84. Fish for blue marlin.
85. Visit a rainforest.
86. Go back to school to get my Masters or PhD.
87. Change someone's life for the better.
88. Go to a nude beach.
89. Kiss at the top of the Eiffel Tower.
90. Learn to belly dance.
91. Buy a big hat and go to the Kentucky Derby.
92. Go on a pub crawl.
93. Take lots of pictures and actually print them out and use them.
94. Blow a month's wages on shoes.
95. Spend a night at the Opera.
96. Try to trapeze.
97. Take pole dancing lessons.
98. Build something.
99. Send flowers to someone for no reason.
100. Live every day as if it's my last.

Strong Legs 10k at Turner Field

This past Saturday, I ran the Strong Legs 10k at Turner Field. It is one of my favorite races. This is the third time I have run this race in the past couple of years. My all-time favorite race to run is the Peachtree Roadrace, which is on the 4th of July. This year would have been my 10th year running it, but I was in Ohio for my family reunion. Someday I hope to run a marathon, if my feet will allow me. Hopefully this upcoming spring I will run a half marathon. For those that don't know, I have plantar fasciitis in both of my feet. It has been a challenge (and quite painful) running with such bad feet.

In case you don't know, Plantar fasciitis (PLAN-tur fas-e-I-tis) is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It involves pain and inflammation of a thick band of tissue, called the plantar fascia, which runs across the bottom of your foot — connecting your heel bone to your toes. Plantar fasciitis causes stabbing pain that usually occurs with your very first steps in the morning. Once your foot limbers up, the pain of plantar fasciitis normally decreases, but it may return after long periods of standing or after getting up from a seated position. Plantar fasciitis is particularly common in runners. People who are overweight, women who are pregnant and those who wear shoes with inadequate support are at a higher risk of plantar fasciitis.

"I always loved running...it was something you could do by yourself, and under your own power. You could go in any direction, fast or slow as you wanted, fighting the wind if you felt like it, seeking out new sights just on the strength of your feet and the courage of your lungs." - Jesse Owens

Live everyday like it's your last....

Today we have higher buildings and wider highways, but shorter temperments and narrower points of view.

We spend more, but enjoy less. We have bigger houses, but smaller families. We have more compromises, but less time. We have more knowledge, but less judgement. We have more medicines, but less health.

We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values. We talk much, we love only a little, and we hate too much.

We reached the moon and came back, but we find it troublesome to cross our own street and meet our neighbors. We have conquered the outer space, but not our inner space.

We have higher income, but less morals… These are times with more liberty, but less joy… With much more food, but less nutrition…

These are days in which two salaries come home, but divorces increase. These are times of finer houses, but more broken homes.

That’s why I propose that as of today -- You do not keep anything for a special occasion, because every day that you live is a special occasion. Search for knowledge, read more, sit on your front porch and admire the view without paying attention to the needs. Pass more time with your family, eat your favorite food, visit the place you love. Life is a chain of moments of enjoyment; it isn’t only survival.

Use your crystal goblets. Do not save your best perfume… use it every time you feel you want it. Take out from your vocabulary phrases like, “one of these days” and “someday”. Let’s write that letter we thought of writing “one of these days…”

Let’s tell our families and friends how much we love them. Never pass up a chance at adding laughter and joy to your life. Every day, hour, and minute are special… Because you never know if it will be your last…

Makes Me Think

I am obsessed with stumbleupon.com. As I was "stumbling" this morning, I ran across a cool website that is the opposite of FML, called Makes Me Think (MMT). Just thought I would share it. You guys should check it out if you have time. The site is makesmethink.com. Enjoy!

Freckles

As I was washing my face this morning, I looked into the mirror and noticed my freckles more than usual. Since I have been tanning recently, they have come out more because the formation of freckles is triggered by exposure to sunlight. Most of you know that I hate my freckles, as it characterizes me as being a ginger- pale skin, freckles and bright red hair. As I looked into the mirror I noticed the faded white line on my nose that did not contain freckles and was reminded of a story of my childhood.

Back in the Summer of '92, my family and I lived on Marco Island in Florida for the summer. My Dad was taking a sabbatical from preaching and we lived in a sweet little condo right on the beach. Although I remember it being tough having six of us live in the small condo, it was one of the best summers of my life. My brothers and I ran around catching lizards, fishing with my Dad, and shopping at Piggly Wiggly with my Mom. Now, being from Ohio, I thought that that was the craziest name ever for a grocery store but I loved it. That summer we spent nearly every day at the beach and I was the most tan little red head you ever did see. Although my body would tan, sometimes my face would burn. One day, I remember getting burned on my face and then having a blister form on my nose. I began to pick at my blister and realized that a couple of my freckles were coming off. Not realizing the full effect of my actions, I began peeling the blisters to remove my freckles. My Mom caught me doing so and made me stop, but my full intention was to peel the freckles off of my entire face. That's how much I hated them. Later that summer, for some reason my Mom had a bad feeling and thought that we needed to leave Marco Island a couple days early. Just three short days later, Hurricane Andrew struck without warning and demolished the island. God was definitely looking out for us because our whole condo was washed away.

It is amazing to me how one glance in the mirror can bring back so many vivid memories.

Ohhh Bella Mia...

Preface: A couple nights ago I was outside with Jack and Bella letting them run around in the backyard. It was the first time Bella had been outside to play since she has finally gotten all of her shots and she was running around like crazy. My neighbors were outside and told me to be careful because several hawks like to hang out in the trees behind my house. I looked up and there were two hawks in the trees looking at my little pups. I decided to bring them in the house and we continued to play. Since then, I decided to only let Jack outside when he had to use the restroom since I didn't want them swooped up by the hawks.

Well, yesterday when I got home I followed my usual routine of letting Bella out of the bathroom (where she stays when I am not home) and then I let Jack outside to go potty. I have a door in my room that leads outside, since I live in the basement, and I always leave the door cracked so he can go out real quick and come right back in. As Jack was outside, I began to change out of my work clothes. I had just stripped down to my tank top and panties when I noticed that Bella was being awfully quiet. I looked around and did not see her and then I looked over to the cracked door. Sheer panic fell over me and I looked outside and Jack and Bella were outside playing in the yard. I looked up and saw the hawks. At that very moment, I had a decision to make. Go back inside and put clothes and shoes on and then get the puppies or run outside and get them and save them from the hawks. Being the near-perfect Mommy that I am, I chose the latter of the two and ran outside barefoot, in my thong and all. Now this was surely a sight because not only does Bella run away from you when you call her name (because she knows she is going to be put up) but there were also dog poopies everywhere from all the neighborhood dogs. So there I am, prancing around barefoot in my thong and tank top, trying to run around the piles of doodoo (as if they were landmines) all while trying to save my puppies from the evil hawks. I finally got the dogs back in the house and I pray that none of my neighbors saw me! Now if this isn't love, then I don't know what is.

This is how smart some people are...

I just thought I would share a couple of stories from work today that I thought would humor you all. For those of you that don't already know, I am a claims examiner and my account is The Home Depot. These are the type of people I deal with on a daily basis...

First, I spoke with a man who we will call Dick because that's precisely what he was. He filed a claim at a store on behalf of his friend who injured his left pinky finger on some tile in the store. He filed the claim two days after the incident occurred for his friend. I called the number that was provided for the customer who was injured at the store and lo and behold, Dick answered the phone. I asked to speak with the injured party, as he is the one who the claim is regarding. Dick then explained that he is the customer's advocate and would be speaking on his behalf. I kindly explained that I would need to speak with the injured party or his lawyer, if he had one. Dick then got upset and stated that he was sorry he didn't have a law degree and couldn't speak with me. I told him that I didn't know who he was and could not talk to him regarding this matter and that I am uncertain as to why I was speaking with him in the first place. He then starting talking about the weather and said that he thinks I was talking to him because he thinks I like him. At this point, I was irritated that he was wasting my time and I began to get sassy. I told him that I didn't care who he was unless he was the injured party or the injured party's lawyer and that I don't speak with advocates. He then stated that he was an advocate of justice and just wanted to help out The Home Depot. He stated that he has some very valuable information regarding a fraudulent claim pertaining to The Home Depot from 5 to 7 years ago that he thinks would be helpful, since he is an advocate for justice and all. I started laughing and told him to have the injured party to call me and then I hung up. Thank you Dick for wasting 20 minutes of my life that I will never get back. And no, I don't like you.

The second claimant I spoke to was a man that we will call Mr. Fix It. This good ol' country boy has a claim that dates back several months. I requested estimates from him way back and told him to fax me one estimate if it was less than $500 and two if it was more, regarding damage to his vehicle at the store. The customer agreed. The customer never sent in estimates and the file was closed. Today, I received an "estimate" from the customer that was written in Microsoft Word that had the customer's business letterhead (a boat repair shop) on top and then in the middle of the page it stated "Estimate = $500". I called the customer back and explained that he could not come up with an estimate on his own for any old dollar amount and that it would need to be from a repair shop with parts and services with their prices listed. He stated that he loves to fix things and figured he could do it with $500. I told him that that would not work and that I would need a legitimate estimate. The customer still did not seem to understand this concept but finally agreed and hung up.

These stories are nothing compared to the toilet claim, vicious frog claim, or the long distance dater claim but they will do for now.

Just a little insight into the life of a claims examiner... :)

Halloween :)

I must say that this past Halloween weekend was one of the most fun weekends I've had in a very long time. It all started on Friday night, when Wes texted me to meet him and Matt for dinner at the Tilted Kilt. At first I declined the invitation because I was already dressed up in my cat costume for the night. I later decided that I didn't care what people would think and I went anyway, costume and all. Matt knows the owner, Bo, and we had several drinks and shots before we went to Jaime's Halloween party. We even took a bottle of Goose with us on the way out. We then went to Jaime's apartment for her pre-Halloween party was held. I was so excited to see a bunch of my sorority sisters and friends from West Georgia. I had a lot of fun dancing and playing beer pong with everyone. I think I partied a little too hard the night before Halloween. I did not get up the next day until 4pm!

On Halloween, I went over to Ashley and Brandon's for their Monster Mash. All of my best friends were there and we had a wonderful time. We even have the pictures to prove it! ;) My brother and his girlfriend Daphne even made it, which made me so happy. We played several games of beer pong and danced our little hearts out. I swear I always say that it was the best party ever, but it really was.

I am so thankful to have such wonderful friends and family in my life. Being all dressed up makes it even better!

Treat or Trick?

Okay, so I know I am probably going to get hell on this post, but I don't care. One of my favorite things about Halloween is seeing children and dogs dressed up in Halloween costumes. And yes, I said dogs.

I love how there are so many creative costumes for dogs. I'm sure you have all seen the hot dog bun that a wiener dog wears. That's one of my favorites. A couple years ago Jack was Frankenstein but he hated it because he had to wear a little hat thing that he kept taking off. This year he is going to be Superman again (like last year). Unfortunately I didn't have much time to get him a new costume and he isn't going a party with me this year anyway.

While in Savannah for Katie and Stephan's wedding last weekend, there was a trick or treat for dogs down River Street. Dogs of all sizes dressed up (well their owners dressed them up) and went from shop to shop getting treats. I think this is a fabulous idea and wish we had something like that near us. Although Jack would probably be scared out of his mind, Bella would love it!

Which brings me to my next point: I wish we were more pet friendly. "We" as in the U.S. When I lived in Italy you can take your dog(s) anywhere with you. You can take them to the grocery store, a restaurant, and sometimes even work. Right after I got Bella, my Mom, Janet, and I went to order food to go from The Olde Blind Dog in Alpharetta. Being that Bella was only 5 weeks old and not wanting to leave her in the car, I took her inside (holding her) to look at a menu. The manager immediately came over and kicked me out. I mean, I understand that people don't want pets in restaurants, but she was itty bitty and I was only going to order my darn food. So anyway, we got kicked out into the cold and I had to wait on my Mom and Janet outside while they ordered for me. Bella was quite popular that day though. Several servers came outside to meet her and play with her. She sure is little miss popular pretty much all the time though. But enough about that.

I hope you all have a happy and safe Halloween. I'll be sure to post pictures from the parties that I will be attending, I'm sure they'll be interesting.

P.S. In the pictures, Jack is the one in the Superman costume and the others are just random pups!

Carpe Diem!

Well, I don't even know where to start with this one...

The last couple of days I have been doing a lot of thinking. I think it stems from reading too much. I've been going through books like crazy!

Anyway, I must quit stalling. As a preface, I would just like to say that I LOVE my life. I have had opportunities to do many things in my 25 years that some have not done in a lifetime. I have lived abroad in Italy, been skydiving and graduated college, among many other wonderful experiences. Not to sound cocky, but I do think I am better off than some of my friends. I have an awesome family, a decent full-time job where I was recently promoted, I work a second job part-time on the weekends for extra cash, I live in a nice area, I drive a nice car, and I have two sweet little pups to come home to every night. Then why, you ask, am I writing this?

Well, I guess I feel like I have more life to live. Although everything is great and wonderful, I feel like I am missing something. And no, not love like you guys might infer per my semi-recent break up. It is quite the opposite I suppose. I think now is the time to live in the moment, "seize the day", if you will. Carpe Diem!

As many of you know, I lived in Italy in the summer of 2007 and absolutely loved it. I told myself, and many of you, that as soon as I graduated from college I would move back for at least a year or two. Well, after reading my last book, I figured why not? I am young, single, independent, and love new adventures. Sure, all the logistics would have to be planned out ahead of time- a place to live, a job, and money to get there- but why couldn't I just pick myself and move away for a while? Move to Italy? Well who knows... but what I am saying is that I am ready for something new, something exciting, and something not so mediocre. I mean, I am 25 years old and I already feel like an old lady with the same old routine going to a job that I am indifferent about. Not that routine is bad, but I think you get the gist. I don't think it helps that the majority of my friends are getting married and are having kids and that I am no where near that point in my life.

The whole married and having kids thing is foreign to my best friend, Ashley, who lives in NYC. She can't believe how many weddings I have been to just these past couple of months. The culture sure is a lot more different down here than it is in New York. I was talking to her tonight, in fact, explaining to her how I was feeling about life and such and that I am ready for something new and refreshing. She instantly tried to convince me to move to the city with her. Although she has several good points- that I already have friends and family up there, that I could live with her as long as I needed, and that she would find me a job- I'm not sure if New York would be a place for me. But then again, could I really leave Atlanta, the home I've known for so long?

Okay, so that was probably a lot for you guys to take in. Am I really just going to pick up and move somewhere? Who knows. Any insight would definitely be appreciated. I wish I could just win the lottery and travel the world. I guess that means I would have to start playing, eh?

P.S. The picture is from Positano, Italy... my favorite place in the world! (so far!)

Being Passionate About Your Beliefs

Last night, my roommate Katy and I stayed up pretty late talking with the boy she had over (I forgot his name already) about their beliefs. We stayed up until after midnight which tells you how much I enjoyed the conversation, being that I am usually in bed by 9 or 9:30pm. Anyway, Katy and the boy are both Mormons and live their lives unlike most of us, which I find quite intriguing. I'm sure many of you already know, but Mormons have different guidelines to follow in the ways in which they live. For instance, they dress more conservatively, they don't drink or have premarital sex, and they go to church for 3 hours every Sunday (among other things). Last night they let me ask them all sorts of questions, which was entertaining and quite educational. They are much more conservative than most but also are much more passionate in their beliefs (and also very knowledgeable) and do not care what others think. After speaking with Katy and her friend, it reminded me of when I publicly acknowledged my beliefs and passion for Jesus Christ this past summer, which is an experience I will never forget.

For those of you that do not already know, I was baptized in August at 12Stone church in Lawrenceville. My parents and I met up with Jeremy for church that Sunday when they happened to have an open baptism call. Baptism has always been something I had wanted to do. I think it is very important to publicly acknowledge that you love and want to live for Jesus Christ. So, we were sitting there watching person after person being baptised at the end of the church service. I looked at my parents and Jeremy and told them that I would be right back and went up there, in my street clothes and all. I don't think my parents thought I was going to go get in line- I'm pretty sure they thought I was making a trip to the restroom or something. Anyway, after I was baptised in front of the whole congregation, I went to a room and met a 22 year old girl named Jessica who prayed over me. She congratulated me and was such a warm little lady. Overall, it was a life changing experience. I am so glad that I had the opportunity to share my love for Jesus without caring what other people think.

All in all, I think it is important to be passionate about your beliefs and to be true to yourself. Oh how refreshing it is!

"Baptism is, in fact, much more than a ritual conferring membership in a community, as many people conceive it nowadays. It is a process of birth, through which a new dimension of life opens out." ~Peter Seewald

About the pictures:
*The first picture is a picture I took the beginning of this summer when I was going through a very rough time. It made me realize how small my problems are in comparasion to the grand scheme of things. I think it was a direct sign from God telling me that there is light at the end of the tunnel and that behind every cloud there is beautiful sunshine.
*The second picture is blurry but it is from the Sunday morning I was baptised.

Oktoberfest

Well, this past Sunday I went up to Helen for Oktoberfest with some of my besties and we had a wonderful time. I love that we spend pretty much every Sunday together. I wouldn't have it any other way! Here are some pictures!

Keep The Change

As most of you already know, Barack Obama just won the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize- one of the most important awards in the world. I think this was a huge shock to us all. What really baffles me, is that he was nominated only 12 days in office. Can someone please tell me what kind of accomplishments this man has actually come through with while he has been in office, let alone in the first 12 days? I truly do not understand why this man receives so much praise.

On a NY Times blog someone wrote: "What did Obama do to deserve the nobel peace prize?" Someone else wrote, "What he has done is not be George Bush." That was followed by several others with "You're an idiot" and my favorite..."Congratulations for not being George Bush, here is your prize. Love, Europe."

The award has previously gone to exceptional people, such as Mother Theresa, Martin Luther King, Jr., and several other truly amazing people. By giving this award to Obama, I think it really diminishes its value and importance. It is so shocking that Obama would be acknowledged and be given this award for his "Change." The only change that I have experienced is my view of our country and how much of a joke it has become.

Bella Mia

Well, I have officially had Bella for 3 days now and what a doll she is! She is spunky, sassy, and sweet. We've had a couple rough nights (keeping me up with her crying) but she is totally worth it. Last night, my Mom and Janet came by and brought her a bunch of toys and food. Her favorite toy is a little pink bone chew toy that fits perfectly in her mouth. I need to take a picture of it. She also met a bunch of my neighbors who all fell in love with her. She has only had 1 out of her 3 sets of shots so unfortunately she can't meet any other puppies or be set on the ground since I don't want her to get Parvo or worms. Overall, she is a true joy and I can't wait until she and Jack become BFFs! :)

I'm an old fart!

So this has been a great week so far. It went by so quickly and I feel like I got a lot accomplished, both at home and at work. Yesterday, like pretty much every other day, I got home and went running. I ran about 6 miles which is starting to become my regular routine. After running, I showered and decided to cook a nice dinner for myself. It was the first time I had cooked something nice since I've been at my place, which is pretty sad since I've been there for 4 months now. I cooked chicken parmesan with fresh mozzarella over some thin pasta. As an appetizer, I made a caprese salad with basil and balsamic dressing- a little piece of heaven, if you will. I topped off this fabulous meal with a classy glass of Two Buck Chuck Cab. Mmmm. Anyway, I am sitting at the dinner table by myself, with Jack begging for food at my feet, when I came to a very sober realization- I am getting old. I am 25 years old. I have been out of college for a year and a half. It was 7:30pm at night and I was exhuasted. I don't go out during the week anymore and I was all alone (which I was happy about). Where does the time go? It was about that time that I figured I would go to bed early at 8:45pm- my usual bedtime being 9:30pm. Pretty sad, I know! I'm not saying that I don't like my life or anything like that but man has my lifestyle changed! For those of you that know me, I was always the last one out partying and having a good time and always the first one to wake up for work the next day (hangover free of course!). My body just doesn't work the way it used to. If I don't get at least 7 hours of sleep, I'm not a happy camper the next day. I love my life and I love that I have a regular schedule but boy do I feel like an old fart. These past couple of years have flown by so fast. I guess that's the way the cookie crumbles. On a side note- I am feeling pretty darn good and rested today and I am sooo ready to party this weekend with some old and new friends! :)

Best Website Ever!

http://www.peopleofwalmart.com/

I highly recommend this webite for all those who need a good laugh and/or are bored at work. It puts a smile on my face- ALWAYS! :)

New puppy!

So, I have decided to get Jack a friend since he is home alone a lot. I figured he would enjoy some company while I am at work. Although he is spoiled right now and might not like it at first, I think it will definitely be a good thing for him in the long run. I bought a little girl puppy who I think I am going to name Bella. She is the same breed as Jack, a chorkie (yorkie-chihuahua mix). Full grown, she should weigh between 2-3 lbs. She is the runt. I will be picking her up from Kentucky this coming Sunday. I am super excited! This is the only pic I have of her right now but you know that will soon change as soon as I pick my little baby up! Enjoy!

Does God Exist?

Did God create everything that exists? Does evil exist? Did God create evil?

A University professor at a well known institution of higher learning challenged his students with this question. "Did God create everything that exists?"

A student bravely replied, "Yes he did!"

"God created everything?" The professor asked.

"Yes sir, he certainly did," the student replied.

The professor answered, "If God created everything; then God created evil. And, since evil exists, and according to the principle that our works define who we are, then we can assume God is evil."

The student became quiet and did not answer the professor's hypothetical definition. The professor, quite pleased with himself, boasted to the students that he had proven once more that the Christian faith was a myth.

Another student raised his hand and said, "May I ask you a question, professor?"

"Of course", replied the professor.

The student stood up and asked, "Professor, does cold exist?"

"What kind of question is this? Of course it exists. Have you never been cold?"

The other students snickered at the young man's question.

The young man replied, "In fact sir, cold does not exist. According to the laws of physics, what we consider cold is in reality the absence of heat. Every body or object is susceptible to study when it has or transmits energy, and heat is what makes a body or matter have or transmit energy. Absolute zero (-460 F) is the total absence of heat; and all matter becomes inert and incapable of reaction at that temperature. Cold does not exist. We have created this word to describe how we feel if we have no heat."

The student continued, "Professor, does darkness exist?"

The professor responded, "Of course it does."

The student replied, "Once again you are wrong sir, darkness does not exist either. Darkness is in reality the absence of light. Light we can study, but not darkness. In fact, we can use Newton's prism to break white light into many colors and study the various wavelengths of each color.

You cannot measure darkness. A simple ray of light can break into a world of darkness and illuminate it. How can you know how dark a certain space is? You measure the amount of light present. Isn't this correct? Darkness is a term used by man to describe what happens when there is no light present."

Finally the young man asked the professor, "Sir, does evil exist?"

Now uncertain, the professor responded, "Of course, as I have already said. We see it everyday. It is in the daily examples of man's Inhumanity to man. It is in the multitude of crime and violence everywhere in the world. These manifestations are nothing else but evil.

To this the student replied, "Evil does not exist, sir, or at least it does not exist unto itself. Evil is simply the absence of God. It is just like darkness and cold, a word that man has created to describe the absence of God. God did not create evil. Evil is the result of what happens when man does not have God's love present in his heart. It's like the cold that comes when there is no heat, or the darkness that comes when there is no light."

The professor sat down.

The young man's name - Albert Einstein

Perception

Washington, DC Metro Station on a cold January morning in 2007. The man with a violin played six Bach pieces for about 45 minutes. During that time, approx. 2 thousand people went through the station, most of them on their way to work.



After 3 minutes, a middle-aged man noticed there was a musician playing. He slowed his pace, stopped for a few seconds, and then hurried to meet his schedule.

4 minutes later:
The violinist received his first dollar: a woman threw the money in the hat and, without stopping, continued to walk.

6 minutes:
A young man leaned against the wall to listen to him, then looked at his watch and started to walk again.

10 minutes:
A 3-year old boy stopped but his mother tugged him along hurriedly. The kid stopped to look at the violinist again, but the mother pushed hard and the child continued to walk, turning his head all the time. Several other children repeated this action. Every parent, without exception, forced his or her children to move on quickly.

45 minutes:
The musician played continuously. Only 6 people stopped and listened for a short while. About 20 gave money, but continued to walk at their normal pace. The man collected a total of $32.

1 hour:
He finished playing and silence took over. No one noticed. No one applauded, nor was there any recognition.


Findings:
No one knew this, but the violinist was Joshua Bell, one of the greatest musicians in the world. He played one of the most intricate pieces ever written, with a violin worth $3.5 million dollars. Two days before Joshua Bell sold out a theater in Boston where the seats averaged $100.

This is a true story. Joshua Bell playing incognito in the Metro Station was organized by the Washington Post as part of a social experiment about perception, taste, and people's priorities. The questions raised: "In a common place environment, at an inappropriate hour, do we perceive beauty? Do we stop to appreciate it? Do we recognize talent in an unexpected context?"

One possible conclusion reached from this experiment could be this: If we do not have a moment to stop and listen to one of the best musicians in the world, playing some of the finest music ever written, with one of the most beautiful instruments ever made.... How many other things are we missing?

Rain, rain, go away!

So lately I have begun to feel like I live in Seattle. It has rained for several days now and according to weatherunderground.com, it will rain for about another week (if not more!). I thought that I moved down here from Ohio to get away from the clouds and the rain... WTF! Until I moved down here, I never realized how much the weather contributes to your "Qi" if you will. I have found that people down south are happier, maybe because they live in the sunshine states. Although lately, people haven't been very happy with this weather.

Many articles, such as one written online MSN.com in the Health in Fitness section, state that weather does not really affect our mood. I beg to differ. I have not heard so many people talk about the nasty weather and begging for sunshine. The only glimmer of sunshine that I see coming from this is that our lake is filling up, which is definitely a great thing!

Bodies Exhibit

I recently read the book Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers by Mary Roach. It was one of the most interesting books I have read in a long time and is now one of my favorites. After reading Stiff, I have wanted to view the Bodies Exhibit in Atlantic Station to see many of the bodies that have been donated to research. Before reading Stiff, I had no interest in seeing an exhibit with dead bodies. Stiff opened my eyes about the way our bodies function and how they can be used after death and in research.


If you don't know what the bodies exhibit is, I have included below a portion of their homepage online:

Bodies-The Exhibitation

Celebrate the wonder of the human form at BODIES... The Exhibition, a phenomenal exhibition about the amazing and complex machine we call the human body.

This Exhibition--which features actual human specimens--allows people of all ages access to sights and knowledge normally reserved only for medical professionals. Take the opportunity to peer inside yourself, to better understand how your elaborate and fascinating body works, and how you can become a more informed participant in your own health care.