Life After 30......

Music Mondays!

2012-01-09T05:00:00.000-06:00

This is sort of an extension of yesterdays post. Never underestimate what someone can accomplish....disabilities are only limitations in some aspects. Everyone on this Earth has a purpose and an ability for something.

Happy 2012...

2012-01-08T20:47:00.003-06:00

I know...I know....I've been absent for a WHILE here. But you know how the holidays are. Shopping, decorating, friends, family, presents, and parties. Overall, I had a fabulous holiday season. Went to my parents in Houston, spent time with my big sister Kellie. Had a great time teaching my folks how to use their new smart devices (mom got a Kindle Fire and dad an iPhone 4S). I feel like they are getting so grown!

I welcomed in 2012 with a few of my favorite people at one of my favorite hole in the wall bars. Toasted midnight with champagne and crossed my fingers that they Mayans were wrong and that 2012 is not in fact the end of the world.

As a teacher, I enjoy the two weeks we are given to enjoy our holidays and to decompress from all the stress in our lives. And like most teachers, it's hard to wake up on that first day back and get back into the swing of things. However, this year, something unexpected happened to me. Going back to school made the first week of 2012 the best new year of my life. On my first day when I walked in, I found out that I had been funded for a grant through the Autism Society of Acadiana. It provided me with funds to buy an iPod for my classroom to use as an assistive technology device for my non-verbal students with Autism. And then on Friday, one of the best things that has every happened in my 9 year teacher career took place. A student of mine who up until that point had not talked all year, shouted "I'm jumping" while on the trampoline and asked what he was doing. Those two words brought tears to my eyes to the eyes of many many more who knew his journey.

This school year has probably been one of the most stressful ones of my career. However, at the same time, it has also been the most rewarding. It has reminded me why I do what I do. Why I sing silly songs, believe in Santa, and put up with paint covered hand prints on my clothes.

And after this week, I was reminded about the mystery of Autism and how I can be a part of placing that puzzle together.

By the way I know this kid. Check out his mom's journey!

Music Mondays!

2011-12-05T05:00:00.000-06:00

The Road to the Final Four....starts now!

Music Mondays!

2011-11-28T05:00:00.000-06:00

This one's for you Mom!

I Don't Celebrate Birthdays...

2011-11-27T20:02:00.005-06:00

Nope. Not at all. And its not because I'm afraid of growing another year older.....it's because I prefer to see it as a trip around the sun. Each year in my life marks another successful trip around the sun. Today marks my 31st trip around the sun. Pretty good if you ask me. When I look back on it and reflect I think of the many things that have happened to me in this past year. Some good....some bad....some made me better....some made me humble.

My Birthday Balloon from my Mom

Momma Makes the Best Birthday Cakes

Seeing that I was born on Thanksgiving, I have always imagined my birthday to be different than people who don't have birthdays that surround a national holiday. However, I have something that most people don't have. I am always guaranteed to be surrounded by loved ones on my special day. And I never need to worry about a birthday dinner....mine is always full of home cooked treats that we only sink into once a year. Instead of pie I always have a tasty chocolate cake.

It's hard to measure a year...but it all adds up to a pretty good trip around the sun. So here's to one more trip around the sun....and many many more!

Music Mondays!

2011-11-21T21:42:00.000-06:00

Music Mondays!

2011-10-31T05:00:00.000-05:00

This is a special video with a song a love. I found the video amazing and it reminded me that as humans, we many think we only touch a life for a little bit. But our impressions last a lifetime.

Fill in the Blank Friday! Happy Fall Ya'll!

2011-10-21T05:00:00.000-05:00

1. Nothing says fall like going to the pumpkin patch, enjoying cold weather, Big Blue Madness, and seeing KY number 2 in the preseason basketball polls.

2. My favorite autumn tradition is going to the pumpkin patch with my class. It is so exciting to see the look on their faces as this is many times the first pumpkin patch experience for them.

3. My favorite fall treat is Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte!

4. Fall makes be think of Paducah because of all the wonderful memories I have of Fall Festivals, jumping in leaves, and seeing the season's change.

5. Autumn free form word association go! pumpkins, cool weather, open windows, no humidity.

6. My go-to outfit in the fall is leggings and a sweater dress.

7. My favorite holiday is (Halloween or Thanksgiving) I have to say I am very partial to Thanksgiving. I was actually born on Thanksgiving Day 1980. Because of this, my birthdays were a bit different from other....pie instead of cake. However, now that everyone is grown, my family always celebrates my birthday on Thanksgiving. When I was little I would get upset because I couldn't have a birthday party like other kids, so my mom would always tie a balloon to my bed for me to wake up to on my birthday to make it extra special. She still does sometimes.

Music Mondays.......

2011-10-17T05:00:00.000-05:00

Heard this on the radio the other day and my mind went back to the mid-90s for a little while.

Fill in the Blank Friday!

2011-10-14T20:44:00.003-05:00

1. The most selfless thing I have ever done become a teacher at an at-risk school. It has given me a true sense of empathy and the knowledge to know how to make a difference.

2. When it comes to working out I am inconsistent. I have a true love hate relationship with it. However, I went to they gym for the first time in a while this week, and it did feel pretty good after.

3. A woman should always know how to hold her liquor. No one likes the drunk girl crying int he corner.

4. I wish I could pack my bags and move to NYC tomorrow. And then I'd erase that off the bucket list!

5. A best friend is someone who knows all the trash, and still loves you anyway.

6. I can't get enough of Donnie Wahlberg.

7. This weekend I am going to enjoy an extra day off work, go to UL Homecoming, and catch up around this house!

Meeting one of my heroes

2008

Music Mondays! 20 Years of Nirvana!

2011-10-10T05:00:00.000-05:00

This music revolutionized a generation...and me.

Steve Jobs

2011-10-07T19:37:00.012-05:00

"You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something-your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life"

-Steve Jobs

As we all know, the world recently said good-bye to someone who had a huge role in changing it. It was Apple co-founder, Steve Jobs. He was a modern day Thomas Edison or Henry Ford. He revolutionized technology for all of eternity. And what is perhaps is one of the biggest irony's of his passing, is that much of the world found out about it on the very device that he helped to invent.

I want to take a little time to share with you a few of the things that Steve Jobs has done for me. First of all, he got me in trouble in the 2nd grade. You see, our class had an Apple computer. You know, the ones that were "portable and light weight", but needed about 3 boxes to transport? Yeah, that kind. This was also when floppy disks were actually floppy and had that hole in the middle. Well, one day, while on the computer, I was taking one of the disks and swirling it around my finger. Which in turn, ruined the disk and the game that was on it (Perhaps Oregon Trail?). Anyway, what I remember about this incident was that I was so afraid that I was going to be in big trouble. When the disk stopped working, our school secretary (who had grown up with my dad) came in to see if she could figure out the problem....which she then determined to be that my swirling had permanently damaged the disk. I remember she jokingly (I think) said, "I'm gonna tell your daddy". I think that I spent the next few days fearing that she would, in fact, tell my daddy.

He has also had a huge impact on my career and how I teach. It really bothers me when I hear people say "Who really NEEDS an iPad/iPod/iPhone?" Well, I'm going to go ahead and tell you about some people who really NEED an iPad/iPod/iPhone. You see, Apple products have for a long time been embraced by those in the disability community because of their adaptive features. People who are visually impaired benefit from the enlarged print and screen that is easy to access, as well as the text to speech and the new speech to text features. Those who are hearing impaired can have access to subtitles while watching movies and television on other devices in real time. Individuals that have motor impairments can manipulate the touch screen with much more ease than a keyboard or paper and pencil. In turn, it is easier for them to do everyday tasks such as pay bills or make a grocery list. And individuals with Autism benefit form the the many communication applications that help them to use pictures to communicate and often reduce their frustration that can develop by not being able to convey their wants and needs to others.

One thing that my mom has always said and I believe as well, that everyone's life has a meaning and a purpose. But the irony here is that Steve Jobs' life meaning and purpose was to revolutionize technology. And in turn, this technology helped to provide meaning and purpose to other peoples lives.

Fill in the Blank Friday!

2011-10-07T17:06:00.002-05:00

1. Something popular that I can't stand/just don't "get" is the whole Harry Potter and Twilight craze. It just doesn't do anything for me.

2. Something unpopular that I secretly love is The Brady Bunch. It is my all time favorite show. I could watch it over and over and over again.

3. When I've had a bad day I sit in a quiet room, call my mom to vent, and then watch some good trash TV.

4. I'd prefer staying up all night to getting up early any day.

5. Something that makes me nervous is flying. As much as I love to travel, I still get nervous every time I get on a plane, and I don't calm down until I'm back on terra firma.

6. Something worth fighting for is standing up for what you believe in. Solidarity!

7. When people think of me, I hope they think that I am a fun loving individual that is independent and goal oriented.

One Picture

2011-10-04T05:00:00.000-05:00

Today's is the final day in this 10 day challenge about me. It turned out the be a quit difficult one. You see, the challenge was to post one picture of my self. Seems simple, right? Wrong. You see, I love pictures. Not because I'm narcissistic and love to look at myself, but because pictures hold so much meaning. So much value. Pictures are the only thing on this Earth than can capture a split second in time that will never come or go again. What really amazes me is that I can't tell you off the top of my head what was going on in my life 10 or 15 years ago, but show me a picture, and it all changes. I can tell you if I was sick that day, what the other people in the picture were up to that day, and why I was wearing a certain outfit. Hell, I can even give to the correct excuse as to why my hair wasn't looking good that day.

With all that being said, it was a challenge for me to only choose one picture to share. One picture to tell my story. There are so many pictures, or moments in time that mean so much to me, it's hard for me to just share one with the world. So, I decided to cheat just a little. Instead, I made ONE picture slideshow that helps to tell my story of who I am and how I got here!

A slideshow by Smilebox

Music Mondays!

2011-10-03T05:30:00.000-05:00

I've been listening to a lot of my old favorites lately....love me some Pearl Jam!

Two Songs

2011-10-03T05:00:00.000-05:00

I have always been a music lover. I remember as a little girl sitting the the back seat of the Oldsmobile and singing along to Madonna's "Poppa Don't Preach" and not even knowing what the song was REALLY about (I think it was about a girl who's dad didn't like her boyfriend). There are many songs that I love and hold dear to my heart. Many times, they have a special meaning or significance to my life. I think that's what I like the most about music. A simple song can transform you back to a place in time that you may have otherwise never thought you would go back to.

ONE

This song gets me every time. I remember being made to learn the lyrics in school. Little did I know, that on day in the future, I would no longer reside in the Bluegrass State and this simple song would take me back to the hallways of Morgan Elementary School. I also look forward to going to a big Cats win and singing this along with a few thousand of my closest friends!

TWO

If there is one song that encompasses me...this is it.

Three Films

2011-10-02T05:00:00.000-05:00

I've always found it interesting how the genre of movies that a person likes in many ways often parallels their life and their personality. Personally, I've never really been into horror films or action adventure movies. And if you want some proof, I didn't even see The Sixth Sense or Saw II, both of which have Donnie Wahlberg. I tend to like two kinds of movies: off color comedies that require the viewer to have a wicked sense of humor and a taste for dirty jokes. The other type being chick flicks. Like many women my age, I have often watched a chick flick and laughed and stood in awe of the many ways in which it paralleled my own life. Here are three of my most favorite movies:

ONE

Riding in Cars with Boys. I love everything Drew Barrymore. I love her style, her sense of adventure, and her pride in being an independent woman. On many, many, many occasions, I have had both strangers and friends tell me how much I remind them of her. I take it as the best compliment that I could receive. And I LOVE her movie Riding in Cars with Boys. It is one of those movies that I could watch over and over and over again and never get tired of it!

TWO

Dirty Dancing. Who doesn't want to be Baby? When I found out that this movie was actually based on someone's real life experience, I must admit that I was a bit jealous. Every girl, and I don't care who you are, has watched this movie and dreamed of what it would be like to take a simple vacation and have a torrid affair with a bad boy. No matter what else is going on, if I'm flipping through the channels and this movie is on, I stop and relive "Nobody put's baby in a corner". I also have to give my mom credit for introducing me to the classic film...she was CRAZY FOR SWAYZE back in the 80s.

THREE

The Hangover. And why? Because it reminds me of people I know and have hung out with. Not that any of my nights have ever been that crazy, but trust me, there have been a few that I have woken up from and wondered how I made it out alive.

Four Books

2011-10-01T05:00:00.001-05:00

I have never been much of a reader. I'm not really sure why. Growing up my family always had books in the house and my parents would read to me all the time. And my older sister Kellie is addicted to reading. I honestly believe if she could put books into a syringe and inject it in her veins, she would! However, from time to time, I come across a book that I love and can't put down.

ONE

Someone Like Me. I stumbled across this book by pure accident. I was trying to find children's books that had characters with special needs. However, along my search, I found this wonderful memoir of a many with Cerebral Palsy and no limits. This books depicts how he lived with CP and overcame the odds to achieve his dream of being in the United States Navy.

TWO

Eat, Pray, Love. When I started reading this book, I couldn't put it down. I love the story and the author's real life sense of adventure and finding herself. After reading this book, I was truly inspired and began to not only think of how I would "eat, pray, and love" my way through life, but I also began to search for my "word".

THREE

The Color Purple. This is one of those books that I could read over and over and over again. I first read it in the 9th grade and I fell in love with it. I just love the story and the many meanings that lie with in this great piece of literature.

FOUR

The Last Lecture. I was first introduced to Randy Pausch and his book The Last Lecture a few years ago while watching Oprah. I was so moved by his story of living and dying with pancreatic cancer. I was amazed at the bravery and courage that it must have taken to write a novel that depicts how someone would tell their own life story for the last time.

Five Foods

2011-09-30T05:00:00.003-05:00

I love food and I love to eat! It's amazing, because as a child, I was the pickiest eater ever. I survived my childhood by living on PB&J and cereal. And now as an adult, there isn't anything I won't try! Here are my top 5 most favorite foods!

ONE

Hands down, the best thing that I ever put in my mouth, was my MaMaw's fried chicken. She could fry a chicken like it was nobody's business. I have many fond memories of her in the kitchen with that big black, iron skillet frying up a chicken like only she knew how. And she would make a white gravy and homemade biscuits to go along with it. I remember she gave me some good advice once when she was teaching me how to make gravy. She said, "Don't forget. People Bitch when their gravy is runny". I still haven't forgot MaMaw! Her kitchen was filled with much more than food. It was full of laughter, stories, good times, and memories!

TWO

Sushi. It wasn't until I was in my 20s that I dared to even try sushi! Maybe it's because sushi has such a bad rap with people. However, I have learned in recent years that it's something I love. It goes to show that it is true, you don't know until you try it!

THREE

Ice cream! I mean, we all scream for it don't we?! Personally, I think there is no better treat in the world than ice cream. One of my favorite ice cream treats is a peanut butter milkshake made with chocolate ice cream! To this day, the best peanut butter milk shake that I have ever had was at United Dairy Farmers...a delicious ice cream place that I have only seen and experience in the Cincinnati area!

FOUR

Breakfast....but I don't really ever eat it in the A.M. I love breakfast food, but not when I wake up! I love a great brunch or breakfast for dinner!
FIVE

My momma's chicken and dumplings. It is my most favorite thing that she knows how to cook. My mom is a great cook, and I'm not just saying that. It is a very rare occasion that she makes something that is not very well received. Many times I hear people that chicken and dumplings are too hard to make, but not for my momma! They are slap ya momma good!

Six Places

2011-09-29T05:00:00.002-05:00

Today the challenge is 6 places. I love to travel and see new places. There are many places that I have been and many places that I still want to go. I love traveling and experiencing different ways of life. Here are my top 6 places to visit. Each of them have significance to me, some I have already seen, some I am still dreaming!

ONE

New York City. In 2009, my sister Kellie and I had the opportunity to travel to NYC. It was something that I had always dreamed of and it took my breath away to finally have that dream come true (although I am still dreaming of going there with my Mom some day). I will never forget the feeling that I got when I got off that train in Grand Central Station, rode the escalator up, and landed on the streets of NYC. While we were there we ate in Little Italy, took a tour of Brooklyn, had an interesting experience at The Empire State Building (it is NOTHING like Sleepless in Seattle), saw Lady Liberty up close, and took a tour of Ellis Island. Now, I'm not one for the mellow dramatics, but I literally got chills walking through those halls knowing that my Great-Great Grandpa Murphy walked the same halls years ago when he came over from Ireland.

TWO

The Pacific Northwest. The past March, I had the unexpected opportunity to travel to Olympia, WA/Seattle, WA/Victoria, B.C. The scenery there was like traveling through a post card. Pine trees, snow capped mountains, sea planes going in and out of the water, and the Original Starbucks!

THREE

Chi Town! I love Chicago. I have had the chance to visit there twice and I loved it both times. It has such an old historical feel mixed with a modern and contemporary vibe! Although I am a life long St. Louis Cardinals fan, I had a blast going Wrigley Field and drinking an Old Style beer (which may be the cheapest and worst tasting beer I have ever put in my mouth). I also got to go to the top of the Sears Tower, see Navy peer, and eat some Chicago Style Pizza!

FOUR

Washington, D.C.. I believe that no matter what your traveling preferences are, every American should visit our capitol at least once in their life time. My sister Kellie and I went around 2006 for a day trip. While we were there I took my first subway ride, had a Capitol tour, saw Joe Lieberman on the floor, saw Dorothy's red slippers (bucket list check!), and learned that the Washington Monument is not as close to the Capitol as it looks and you should not attempt to walk the two miles to get there!

FIVE

Paducah, KY, AKA, my hometown. At first thought, you may think that there really isn't much in Paducah, but here are some fun facts for you. It is home to the National Quilting Museum and the Annual Quilt Show which attracts quilters from all over the world. Bruce Willis and Demi Moore's first baby Rumer was born there. It's annual telethon is the biggest small town telethon in the nation and attracts an array of celebrities annually. In addition, it is also the birth place of Vice-President Alben W. Barkley.

SIX

Australia. This is the one place in the world that I have never been and dream of going to. I have always been fascinated with the country, it's people, it's culture, it's animals. I honestly can say, had I been in the Oprah audience when she gave away the Australian adventure, I would have been one of those fools crying because I was so over joyed!

Seven Wants

2011-09-28T05:00:00.001-05:00

Today was easy. There are many things in this world that I want. The challenging part of it all was narrowing it down to simply 7.

ONE

To travel the country of Australia. I have always been fascinated with this country. I dream of going there and experiencing all that there is to experience in the Land Down Under.

TWO

To see my Kentucky Wildcats cut down the nets after winning the Final Four. Last year, I got to see them play in the Final Four, only to witness a heartbreaking loss to UCONN. However, my sister Kellie and I already have our tickets to the 2012 Final Four in NOLA this year. I'm ready to cross this off of my bucket list.

THREE

To have something I've written published. It is one thing to have your mother tell you that you are a good writer, but it is completely different when someone you don't know loves what you have written so much, that they think you should share it with others.

FOUR

A Lexus. As a teacher, you sort of come to accept it that you get summers off, but will never make enough to drive a luxury car.

FIVE

To visit NYC with my mom. It is something that I have always talked about and a dream that I know will come true one day.

SIX
To be on a game show. When I was in college, I auditioned for "Wheel of Fortune"...only to be cut in the final round. I plan to rectify this one day.

SEVEN

Be great at something. I have always wanted to be a "go to" person on a topic or subject for other people.

Eight Fears

2011-09-27T05:00:00.000-05:00

Today's challenge is 8 fears. I think that fears are something that are difficult for us as human beings to face and admit to. When we admit to having a fear....it becomes real to both ourselves and to those around us.

ONE

Mice. And for those of you who want to say, "They are more afraid of you than you are of them"...you're wrong. Finding on in a washing machine after you have done a load of laundry really helps you to form an opinion on them.

TWO

Flying. Which is an interesting paradox considering I am a frequent traveler. However, to overcome this fear, I pop a Benadryl and sleep the entire flight.

THREE

The dark. No, I don't sleep with a night light or anything like that, but I'm also uneasy when I hear something and I can't see where it is coming from.

FOUR
Failure. The thought of not achieving all the goals I have set for myself or not being accomplished in my career terrify me.

FIVE

Death. It's not that I'm afraid of what comes after death, I'm afraid of leaving this world before I have done everything that I have wanted to do.

SIX

Over sleeping. As much as I hate getting up early, I hate being late even more. If for some reason I do oversleep, I go into a total panic. I'd rather show up to work with no make up than show up late.

SEVEN

Not getting A's and B's. I know it sounds like I'm an overachiever (which I am), but when I am taking a class, I don't settle for anything less than the best.

EIGHT

Not knowing who I am in old age. I've witnessed what it's like with my own eyes, and I wouldn't wish it on anyone.

Nine Loves

2011-09-26T05:00:00.007-05:00

There are many things in this world that I love and adore...it's very hard to narrow them down to just nine. But after thinking about the nine things I love the most, here they are:

ONE

Kentucky basketball. It is a sports tradition like no other. Unless you are a part of the Big Blue Nation, you will never fullly understand it.

TWO

Writing. It is a passion that I have had since I was a kid. I credit my 4th grade teacher Mrs. Bach for being the first person to give to me a love of writing.

THREE

Traveling. I love to travel and I start to get the itch to go somewhere if too much times lapses between my trips. I have to take at least one big trip a year, and I make sure that I have several road trips in between.

FOUR

Coffee. Although I do enjoy indulging in specialty drinks such as a pumpkin spice latte, I love a hot cup of black coffee. I'm a firm believer that if you put sugar and milk in it, it's not coffee anymore.

FIVE

Donnie Wahlberg. I loved him in the late 80s when he had a rat tail and I still love him today.

SIX

My job as an early childhood special education teacher. I get to finger paint and change lives all at the same time. I couldn't ask for better.

SEVEN
Laughter. I truly believe that laughter is the best medicine. Even on the worst days of my life, I have managed to find something to laugh about.

EIGHT

My grandparents. My MaMaw and PaPaw both had a tremendous influence on who I have become today.

NINE

My family. They have seen what my hair looks like in the morning and they still love me anyway!

Music Mondays! Fireworks!

2011-09-26T05:00:00.005-05:00

Ten Day Challenge

2011-09-25T05:00:00.004-05:00

Something that is trending right now in the blogging community is the 10 Day You Challenge. (Which should probably be called the 10 day ME challenge since it is in fact all about me). Today's challenge is to reveal 10 secrets about myself. Enjoy!

ONE

I'm a democrat. Not really a shameful secret...and certainly not a secret to everyone. I just don't think some people know this about me.

TWO

I can sometimes be forgetful about putting deodorant on in the morning. So I put some on at night just in case I forget.

THREE

I'm not a natural red head.

FOUR

If I don't wear my clothes long enough to get them dirty or sweaty, I will forgo washing them.

FIVE

I had a crush on Kirk Cameron in the 80s. FAIL.

SIX

I have always wished that I could have been a hippy of the 60s. I truly believe that if there is such a thing as past lives, that I was one.

SEVEN

In reference to number 6, if that is the case, I want to come back as an attorney in my next life

EIGHT

Sometimes when I'm bored or can't sleep, I'll play on the Internet and find random information or look up things I've always "wondered about".

NINE

I'm not the best housekeeper in the world. My house is by no means filthy, but there have been occasions where I have been afraid for people to stop by.

TEN

I still listen to boy bands!

Fill in the Blank Friday! (A Day Late)

2011-09-24T20:26:00.002-05:00

1. The best thing I did all week was ended it. Certainly was not my best week ever.

2. Traveling to new places make me super happy.

3. Pets are something I miss and have been thinking of getting.

4. My family is the best thing about my life.

5. With the cooler weather I am looking forward to not baking in the heat and humidity every single day.

6. Something that's on my "wish list" right now is a new iPHone...I'm hoping the one I have holds up until the 5 comes out.

7. This weekend I am going to to absolutely nothing for the first weekend in a very long time.

Music Mondays! Go Big Blue!

2011-09-19T05:00:00.000-05:00

In honor of my anticipation for the 2011-12 Road to the Final Four in the Big Easy! I'm ready for #8!

Fill in the Blank Friday!

2011-09-16T20:15:00.004-05:00

1. You should always take time to to find the humor in a bad situation. There is always something to laugh about.

2. The unique differences of many people make(s) the world a happier place to be.

3. I can hardly wait for college basketball season to start! GO CATS!!!

4. Saturday is my favorite day of the week.

5. Something totally dumb and ridiculous that I love is "Sister Wives", "Strange Sex", "Extreme Couponing, etc. Other peoples dysfunction is my guilty pleasure.

6. If I could I would pack my bags tomorrow and head off the NYC and live for a year.

7. I rather like a big cup of hot black coffee .

My favorite river front....where the Ohio meets the Tennesse

Paducah, KY

2007

Music Mondays!

2011-09-12T05:00:00.000-05:00

Fill in the Blank Friday!

2011-09-09T21:24:00.003-05:00

NKOTB NOLA 2008

1. Somewhere someone is indulging in a guilty pleasure .

2. Writing is my muse.

3. It would suck if pumpkin spice lattes were no more because, I would have to find a new fall time hot beverage.

4. See my students learn and grown is my favorite thing about today.

5. Life is kind of like a carnival. There are all kinds of rides. Scary ones, fast ones, slow ones. There are some you love, some you are afraid to try, and others that you like a little more than you expected .

6. If I could have anything I wanted I would want a month long vacation to Australia .

7. A funny thing happened the other day... when someone asked me if I was a dancer after seeing my DMB Firedancer sticker on my car. I can barely walk two steps without tripping, much less dance….

Music Mondays...Living the Good Life!

2011-09-05T21:14:00.001-05:00

College Colors Day

2011-09-02T20:40:00.005-05:00

So, today is know to many college sports fans as "College Colors Day". It is an annual event held the first Friday before college football season kicks off. It is the day when sports fans, both crazy and sane, adorn the colors of THEIR team.

However, today, I was unable to wear my KY blue to work and had to wear my UL (University of Louisiana NOT the University of Louisville) red, which was perfectly fine because I got both my undergrad and graduate degrees from the Home of the Ragin' Cajuns! UL also holds some extremely fond memories for me. Late nights followed by early mornings, sorority meetings and parties, and forming friendships that will span a lifetime!

But days like today, always make me long for the Bluegrass State. The place where basketball is everything, and the rest is just the details. I say this a lot, but others just don't get it. In KY, the Wildcats are more than a just a team, they are a dynasty. Fans are not just fans, it's practically a subculture. I have seen grown me cry and little old ladies cuss out referees at games and no one bats an eye.

I think that most everyone has a team that they are die hard for. They don't miss a game, take a loss personally, know the history, and dream of the future. On days like today, I miss "my people". Sure, I have met a few random UK fans along the journey, but it's not the same. Sometimes, I long to be in a pub, drinking blue beer, and screaming C-A-T-S at the top of my lungs. But until then, I will just have to remember that on days like today, I'm wearing my Blue on my heart!

Fill in the Blank Friday!

2011-09-02T20:15:00.012-05:00

1. One thing that is completely superfluous, but that I could never give up is Donnie Wahlberg. True, if he had never risen to fame, I would still have lived and breathed. But through the ups and downs, changes, and seasons of my life, my crush and fantasy world of him has been a constant. I think that no matter how old we get, we need something that allows us to retreat from reality in order to maintain sanity. I look forward to the watching "Blue Bloods", finding sexy YouTube clips, and the next New Kids concert tour!

2. Hugs from people I don't know make me feel awkward.

3. I can't imagine my life without my family to be there to support me. No matter where our differences my lie, I always look forward to our laughter and good times together!

4. Ice cream is my favorite snack.

5. Lately I've been thinking about going back to school (again). When I first embarked on my journey in to education, I never thought I would want to be an administrator. But now, the wheels are turning in my head!

6. If at first you don't succeed stop, calm down, and remind yourself that Rome wasn't built in a day!

7. Fall is my favorite time of year. But not the fall in the south. Every year when fall arrives, I get nostalgic for my home state of KY. I look back on fond memories of jumping in leaves, getting excited for "The Road to the Final Four", and reminisce about the Fall Festival at my elementary school.

Music Mondays! Rise and Grind!

2011-08-29T05:30:00.000-05:00

On many blogs that I read and follow, I often see Music Mondays! So, I have decided to follow suite! My first Music Mondays is something by one of my favorites: Mr. Donnie Wahlberg of NKOTB fame. I love listening to his sexy voice! I also love the hidden sarcasm in this song! Time to Rise and Grind and get ready for the week!

Dream a Little Dream

2011-08-26T21:22:00.009-05:00

"Keep your face in the sun and you will never see the shadows" -Helen Keller

After a recent conversation with my mom, I was reminded that it's OK to dream and that dreams are free. Following this little heart to heart that we had, I began thinking. And what I got to thinking about is that as a child I could dream the biggest dreams and live out the biggest fantasies that could come to mind. However, as the years came and went, something happened. I stopped dreaming. Perhaps it was because I got busy and forgot to keep dreaming. Or maybe it was because as I got older, I thought that maybe dreaming was silly and a waste of time. Maybe I was even afraid to dream out of fear of what others may think.

However, after that conversation the wheels started turning in my head. My mom was absolutely correct, dreams cost nothing. They are absolutely free. And they are perhaps the one thing that no one can ever take away from you.

I also began thinking of the dreams that I have had, the ones that have come true, the ones that are on their way, and the ones you just never know about. My dream of becoming a teacher and working with children with special needs is one that I had for a long time and something that I always knew would come true. I have seen my KY Wildcats play in the Final Four, but I'm hoping that the dream will be complete and they take the title in NOLA in 2012 (which in a way would make my life full circle seeing that I started out in KY and ended up in NOLA). I have yet to travel the country of Australia, but I know that one day I will be Down Under having my breath taken away. I still haven't woken up with Donnie Wahlberg (or as my Dad calls him, the guy from Blue Bloods and Band of Brothers) in my bed, but you just never know.

So I have decided that I'm going to keep on dreaming. I think that the day we stop dreaming, is the day we throw in the towel. I believe that humans always need to have something to look forward to...something to keep them going. Sometimes the biggest obstacle that we encounter is mind over matter...and if you focus on the mind part...you just never know what can come to matter.

Victoria, B.C., Canada

March 2011

Communication brings an entire world to a child

2011-08-05T20:48:00.003-05:00

Please check out my classroom at adoptaclassroom.org

NKOTB...& BSB

2011-07-10T22:18:00.005-05:00

Just like many young girls who came of age in the 80s and 90s I LOVED the New Kids on the Block. There was nothing more exciting that opening up the latest edition of Tiger Beat and taking a look at the latest pics, gossip, and if you were really lucky....a pull out poster of your favorite guy. Mine was and always will be Donnie Wahlberg.

A few years ago, a girlhood dream of mine came true...NKOTB got back together. Myself, my sister, and millions of twenty and thirty something girls all over the world became overwhelmed with joy as we found out the 5 boys from Boston were going on tour again. And of course, we bought our tickets and saw them in the Big Easy!I can honestly say I never thought I would see the day that I would hear the stylings of Step By Step and Hangin' Tough on Bourbon St, but I can also assure you I couldn't have asked for better that night. Then the next year we saw them again in Houston.

There is nothing like that feeling when the curtain goes up. You begin by sitting there thinking that you're grown now and your going to handle it like a lady. Than all of the sudden, the music swells and you see the silhouettes of the 5 boys from Boston who's songs you love to hear. And before you know it, your jumping in screaming as if 1989 had suddenly come back to life!

And this year, as luck would have it, they got together with Backstreet Boys and came to my own city, Lafayette, LA! The concert was wonderful! I couldn't have asked for anything better! We were on the 6th row and were eye witnesses to sexy overload! And as luck would have it, Mr. Donnie Wahlberg himself acknowledged my sign with a wink!

Overall, the night was a blast! It took me back to my childhood. For that night, I was able to let go of the worries of work, school, bills, and relationships and got to let go and have a good time. I got to enjoy as a woman, something that began when I was a girl! Thank you Donnie, Joe, Jordan, Danny, Jon, Nick, Howie, Brian, and AJ. You made me a very happy girl!

The Era of Martha

2011-06-20T19:34:00.007-05:00

"Life can only be understood backwards;
but it must be lived forwards."
-Soren Kierkegaard

I've been away from the blogosphere for a little while. The reason being my grandma (otherwise known as MaMaw to me and many others) went on to Heaven. I miss her terribly, but I know she is in a better place. I know she is up there laughing with her one of a kind laugh and telling stories only the way that she could tell them. She was a special woman to me, my sister, mother, father, and everyone else's life she touched. I wanted to share her story and her life with the world. She touched many lives. Even though she is no longer here, I know that she will continue to touch them.

The Era of Martha

I want to share with you the story of “The Era of Martha”. It began in 1925 in Clarksville, TN with a young girl from the country who grew up as she began loving life with her 4 sisters and 2 brothers. She walked the country roads on adventures, sat in her Daddy’s lap at the end of the day, and spent her summer’s making memories on her Aunt Minnie’s farm. She grew up and left that town for a bigger adventure in Louisville. It was there she met the love of her life, Burlond. From there, they headed to Paducah to live out their dreams.

This is when the Era of Momma began. They built a happy home in that brick house on Mississippi St. And as the years came, so did Mike, Janet, and Doug. The adventures continued as she built a happy family. During this era, Momma raised two teachers and an attorney and even held the honor of Mother of the Year.

Time flew by and soon the Era of MaMaw began. It began with Kellie, followed by Katie, Timothy, Kerry, Erin, Emily, and Kyle. The Era of MaMaw was filled with homemade breakfast, hand written letters, Christmas surprises, and the best homemade fried chicken and biscuits around.

Throughout the entire Era of Martha, she was a firecracker who would never back down and would give you the shirt off her back at the same time. She could light up a room with a story. Telling ones so enriched with details that it could transcend anyone back in time to Clarksville.

The Era may be over. We will never hear the stories about the Smith girls again. No one else’s fried chicken and biscuits will ever taste as good. But the legacy will live forever. It will live on through her son Mike who will carry on her love for music and listening to old songs while going on about the day at home. It will live on through her daughter Janet who took her love for being a homemaker and a true confidant. Her son Doug carries her ability to always to what is honest and just. The legacy will continue on even more through her 7 grandchildren whom she always loved unconditionally. It will live through Kellie, to whom she gave a love of cooking and trying out new recipes. Through Timothy, who takes from her a sense of adventure and doing what he sets his mind to. Kerry will keep her spirit alive by continuing her compassion for taking care of those who are in need. Erin took from her a love for children and watching them learn. There’s Emily who keeps her love for art and creativity alive. And Kyle, who got her will and determination to try new things. And as for me, I think I got her love of a good story and an off color joke.

To many she is Martha, to one she is a lifetime love, to 3 she is Momma, but to me and 6 others she will always be MaMaw. Even when I’m someone’s MaMaw, she will still be my MaMaw.

She always gave me the courage and strength to do whatever I could set my mind to. She was one of the first people who encouraged and fostered my love for writing.

Day 30: This Time Last Year...

2011-06-20T19:32:00.004-05:00

My final challenge is my favorite song this time last year. This song was a challenge because I really don't remember. So, I had to channel myself back to last summer, and it all came back to me!

Day 29: A Song From My Childhood....

2011-06-20T19:29:00.002-05:00

This one was easy. When I was a little girl, I loved the movie The Wizard of Oz. And to this day....I still love the movie. At night before going to bed, my mom and I would sing this song together. A memory I will share for a lifetime.

Day 28: A Song that Makes Me Feel Guilty...

2011-06-20T19:27:00.001-05:00

This challenge is a guilt song. I must confess, I don't really listen to music when I feel guilty. Guess that would require me to confess my guilt. However, if I had to pick one........

Day 27: A Song I Wish I Could Play....

2011-06-20T19:24:00.001-05:00

There's nothing like some good Dave and Tim. I was fortunate enough to see them play in Vegas a few years ago. It left me wishing, I had an ounce of musical skill (unfortunately, it does not extend beyond the recorder!)'

Day 26: A Song I Can Play on an Instrument

2011-06-12T21:56:00.001-05:00

My musical abilities are very much limited. However, in college, I had to take a music class. And in that class, against my will, I had to learn to play the recorder. So, with that being said, here is the only song I can play on an instrument.

I think they are a little better at this than me!

Day 25: A Song that Makes Me Laugh

2011-06-10T16:21:00.001-05:00

This one speaks for it's self...

Day 23: My Wedding Song

2011-06-08T22:41:00.002-05:00

Today's music challenge is the song I want played at my wedding. However, I don't believe in jinxing things, this is what I want to feel on that day....

Day 22: My Sad Song...For My Sad Days...

2011-05-30T23:55:00.003-05:00

This music challenge was very easy. It took no time at all for me to think of a song that I listen to when I'm sad. I love this song and the message that it carries within the lyrics. Listening to it reminds me that there will be days of our lives that are not as good as others and days that are filled with sorry rather than joy. However, it also reminds me that at the end of all that...life is good and ment to be lived.

Day 21: My Happy Song!!!

2011-05-30T23:54:00.001-05:00

Anytime I get happy or overjoyed about something, I love to celebrate it with music! There is just something about being excited that makes me want to jump up and down and do a happy dance!

Day 20: My Angry Song

2011-05-30T23:52:00.004-05:00

Event though we all get angry from time to time, I don't really think of myself as an angry person. However, I guess that things do happen in life that invoke this emotion in me. And when I get angry, I don't want to be around anyone. I just want to sit alone and pout (at least I admit it). And when I'm sitting in my room with a bit ol' pouty face, this is what I'm listening to....

Day 19: My Favorite Album

2011-05-30T23:46:00.004-05:00

Today the challenge that has been posed is to find a song from my favorite album. To do this, I must first think of what my favorite album is. I don't really have a lot of complete albums, rather just many songs that I like and have downloaded over time. However, I must say that one of my very favorite albums is The Beatles Greatest Hits. I suppose that there is someone out there that does not like The Beatles, but I'm sure that they are few and far between. No matter what the generation, there will always be people who love and appreciate the music of The Beatles. What sets them apart to me is the way the revolutionized music and how we as a society perceive music. There moment in history will never come or go again. I'm pretty sure that in my lifetime, there will never be another group that will hit the radio and change forever the way music is played and listened to.

Day 18: I Wish...I Wish...I Wish....

2011-05-30T23:43:00.003-05:00

It's hard to think of a song that I wish I could hear on the radio, being that if I want to hear a song in the car, I just flip on my iPod and rock out. However, there are certain songs that I love to hear and will never get old. With that being said, I love me some Donnie Wahlberg and some Cover Girl. I remember as a pre-teen while crushing on him, I would watch the video over and over again, dreaming that I would be the girl from the audience that he chose to sing to! I still dream that dream from time to time!

Day 17: A Song I Hear Over and Over....and Over Again...

2011-05-30T23:39:00.003-05:00

The challenge for today is a song that I hear often on the radio. In this age of technology, it is hard to think of a song that I hear over and over again. Mainly because there are multiple stations to flip through, satellite radio, and my personal favorite. However, I was able to think of a song that I hear a lot on the radio and it just happens to be a song I like and one with a great memory. It reminds me of my recent trip to the Final Four to see my Cats play. I heard it a lot during that weekend trip to Houston and it just reminds me of the greatest tradition in college basketball!

Day 16: To Everything there is a Season

2011-05-30T23:34:00.003-05:00

As I have reached and surpassed the halfway mark of this music challenge, I have to say that I have enjoyed it. It has been nice to take a stroll down memory lane and reflect on songs that bring back memories for me. Songs that take me back to a place in time and songs that bring people back into my life. I honestly think that that there is a healing power to music. It helps us have fun, reminisce, and get over humps in our lives.

Today's challenge is a song that I used to love but now hate. This song takes me back to middle school. I remember it was the summer after 7th grade and my dad told me he was taking me out for a surprise. And what was it you ask? My very own CD player. Seeing that it was still the early 90s, this was a big treat seeing that I was still listening to tapes. So the two of us got into the car and headed out to Circuit City where he let me pick out my very first stereo (which might I add, took up much more space than my current iPod). Before we left, he let me pick out my first CD. It was none the less than Ace of Base. When I listen to them, they sound kinda weird now, but at that place in time, I couldn't have asked for better!

Day 15: A Song About Me

2011-05-20T19:01:00.002-05:00

I won't even use words to describe this one....I'll let the music do the talking..

Day 14: I Love Eminem!

2011-05-20T18:58:00.006-05:00

People, might not think this from the first time meeting me, but there is just something that I love about Eminem's music! True, he's obnoxious and is really good a pissing people off, but you have to hand it to him, he's got mad skills. I remember coming home in high school, flipping on TRL on MTV and jamming out to some Slim Shady. And I still love his music today....he just keeps the hits coming!

Day 13: Guilty as Charged...

2011-05-20T18:55:00.003-05:00

There was no two ways about it when asked what my musical guilty pleasure is. Hands down....Kelly Clarkson. Laugh if you want, but I really enjoy her music. I've never even been an American Idol fan, but I just really like her music. She just seems like my kind of girl!

Day 12: Love to Hate Them

2011-05-20T18:49:00.001-05:00

When given the challenge to post a song from someone I hate, I must reinforce that I do not hate them, I simply can not stand their music. And with that said, there is just something a little creepy about Creed.

Day 11: NKOTB...They'll Never Get Old

2011-05-20T18:45:00.004-05:00

Like most young women who came of age in the 90s, I can't get enough of the New Kids on the Block. There is just something about the first "boys" that you had a "crush" on, that will never get old. And I can't even begin to tell you how elated my sister Kellie and I were when they reunited. We've seen them twice to date, but the number will be 3 after June 24. The first concert we went to in 2008 was one of the best experiences of my life. We were sitting there, waiting for the curtain to go up, thinking we were grown now and we would act like ladies. However, when the curtain rose and across the jumbo screen the words "20 years ago....five boys from Boston" scrolled across, we were jumping and screaming as if 1991 had suddenly returned. I think we may have even hugged and held back a few tears of joy. So here it is....a little pop mixed with some eye candy...hope you enjoy it as much as we do!

Day 10: Sleepy Time

2011-05-20T18:42:00.002-05:00

I have to say, I can't stand to listen to music, or anything else, when I'm sleeping. When I sleep, my body demands quiet. However, if I had to think of a song that I would want to be able to sleep to, I would say it would have to be...

Day 9: Everybody Dance Now!

2011-05-20T18:39:00.004-05:00

Chances are, I'm probably not as good of a dancer as I think I am, but I do love getting out on the dance floor from time to time and shake my groove thang with my favorite girlies! There is just something fun about having a random girls night that ends up with a few shots and dancing to the nastiest song ever written. (With that being said, ever notice how you never see a group of guys in a circle on the dance floor saying "Go Todd! Go Todd!)? But, if I can only chose one, I would have to say it's Footloose. It's fun, everyone know it, and it brings back so many memories of sorority formals, weddings, and random nights on the town.

Day 8: Every Last Word

2011-05-20T18:36:00.003-05:00

It wasn't hard at all to think of a song I know all the words too. Chances are, most people out there know all the words to this one. It's just a fun song and no matter where you are in the world, I'm sure you'll find a bar full of drunk folks raising their glasses high while singing along to the Journey classic!

And my favorite Don't Stop Believing memory....Leesville Toga Party...beer pong table...2007.

Day 7: Me, My Dad, & a Little Bit of Nose Candy

2011-05-20T16:05:00.003-05:00

The challenge for today is a song that takes you back to a certain event. It was about 2001 or so and I had gotten my dad tickets to see Eric Clapton in New Orleans. It was something he had always wanted to do, but something he would never have bought for himself. So the two of us had a little father daughter date and went to the show. It was awesome and pretty neat to see my dad jamming out to some Clapton. He was even rocking out to Cocaine. You haven't lived until you've seen your own dad jamming to some Clapton and even calling his friends so they could hear too.

Day 5: More than a Memory

2011-05-20T16:03:00.003-05:00

Todays' song challenge was to find a song that made me think of someone. However, this blog is between me and the universe. Recently, someone came back in my life through a little bit of luck and fate.

Day 6: Going Back to that Place in Time

2011-05-20T16:02:00.003-05:00

In middle school, my across the street neighbor Elizabeth and I became the best of friends. We always had the best of times together, that included but were not limited to sipping icees, jumping on the trampoline, and tubing in Lake Erie. However, the summer after 8th grade, my family and I left KY and set out for NOLA. However, every year for Spring Break, Elizabeth's mom would take us to Key West. It was the best of times we could have ever imagined. Our Senior year in 1999 was the best out of all our trips. I will keep it a secret all the things we did that year, but it was sort of a coming of age for us. I was really into Oasis that year, and every time I hear the song Champagne Supernoava, I go back to that warm beach with the sand between my toes.

Day 4: In the words of Billy Ocean: There will be sad songs that make you cry

2011-05-17T21:18:00.007-05:00

Today, I have been challenged to find a song that makes me sad. It's kinda weird to think of a song that makes you sad. No one wants to channel sad thoughts or bad memories. For me, this song makes me sad in a good way. It is sort of bittersweet for me. It reminds me of my childhood home, that I often miss. I miss it because of the circumstances of my life journey, I haven't lived in my childhood home since the early 90s. Although I love going home to my mom and dad's house, the house they live in now is one they moved to in my adult life. I will never get to sit in the same living room Christmas morning as I did as a child nor will I ever be able to take my own children into my backyard and show them where I used to play and built a fort. This song just makes me want to revisit the house that built me one more time.

Day 3....Sweet Serendipity

2011-05-17T21:02:00.006-05:00

So today's music challenge is a song that makes me happy. There are several songs that make me happy for several reasons. Some songs remind me of a certain person or place and some of them help me to travel back in time. But this song I chose, is one that simply makes me happy to be alive.

This song has a story to go along with it. For those of you who know me best, know I'm always looking for a sign from the universe. Recently, I took a quick trip to my hometown of Paducah, KY. I was driving around looking at childhood memories and just thinking about life in general. I was thinking about how many things had changed in my life and how I had gotten to where I am today. And as I often do, I was thinking about how my life may be different if my family had not moved around as much. And as fate and the universe would have it, the song Sweet Serendipity came on the radio. It was a friendly reminder that life is all about unexpected surprises. Recently, I've been reminded that sometime people, places, or things, can be an unexpected surprise in your life. This song makes me happy because it reminds me that life is a journey, not a destination....

Day 2: And the loser is...

2011-05-17T20:44:00.005-05:00

Choosing my least favorite song was almost as challenging as finding my favorite song. I'm not really sure why. There are tons of songs out there that force me to turn the station when they come one. I have to say overall, I must say I loath songs that "whine" about something or how awful the world is. So, with that being said, I have to say the loser is Tim McGraw's Back When. I have to say that Tim really missed the mark on this one. The song is just so silly and so cheesy and I hate when people whine about how life was so much better years ago (and for those who still think so, go check out Billy Joel's We Didn't Start the Fire. Not only is it a wonderful account of history, it also depicts how the world has always had issues and how we, as humans, have always been trying to get rid of them).

Don't get me wrong though, I do enjoy and appreciate MOST of Tim McGraw's music, but I think someone lied to him in the studio when they said this was a hit.

30 Days....30 Songs....30 Things about me...

2011-05-17T20:08:00.004-05:00

So, after seeing many people on Facebook do the 30 day music challenge, I have decided to do one myself. Like most people, music is a huge part of my life. I credit my dad for giving me my love for music...especially classic rock. I have fond childhood memories of him driving our Oldsmobile Cutlass Cierra and singing Janie Got a Gun. Also, it amazes me how a driving in the car and hearing a simple song on the radio, can flood my head with memories and feelings that that had gotten lost somewhere over time.

My first challenge was to pick my favorite song. Although it seems simple, it is hard to pick just one song to deem my favorite. I have a deep love for all types of music...everything from 2 Live Crew to soft rock.....to 80s pop. However, I was forced to only chose one. So, because I'm a huge Dave Matthews fan, I have chosen my favorite song to be The Best of What's Around. I love the message that it has. I sort of see it as the theme song to my life.....it's all about making the most of what you have in the world around you...what is what I intend to do while I enjoy my stay here on Earth.

The Road to the Final Four

2011-04-07T20:41:00.003-05:00

The term "The Road to the Final Four" is known by college basketball fans as the journey each team begins at the start of the season as they chase the ultimate goal: The National Title. This year, I was fortunate enough to watch my KY Wildcats take a crazy journey through the season and end up in the Final Four in Houston. I was even lucky enough to see them play, but sadly we did not make it to the title game. However, as I reflected on my life and the years that led up to me having a seat at Reliant Stadium in Houston, the term, "The Road to the Final Four" took on a very different meaning for me. It somewhat became a metaphor of sorts for me.

You see, I'm a huge believer in fate and destiny. And as I became overjoyed with the excitement that I was going to get to see my Cats play in the Final Four, I began to reflect upon the years, people, places, and events that led up to me sitting in that arena.

Picture it, Mandeville, LA, 1996. That was the first year that my family lived in Louisiana. I hated it. I hated just about everything about it. I hated the weather, I hated my school, I hated the food there, the way people talked. I HATED EVERYTHING. Also, in April of that year, my Cats also made the journey to the Final Four and clinched the title that year. Their first since 1978. I remember like it were yesterday, watching the game in our living room with my family, so proud to see our boys take it all, and a little sad that I wasn't in the Bluegrass State to celebrate with my fellow Wildcat fans. I was even fortunate enough to share the same feeling of pride when we won again in 1998.

Fast forward to present day. I have come a long way from that living room in Mandeville. I have made my peace with moving to Louisiana and I have even learned to love some things about it. I even take credit for recruiting some new members to the Big Blue Nation.

Last week, I found myself sitting with my family in Reliant Stadium watching the Cats as they made a memorable run for the title. And as I sat there I couldn't help but all the events that had taken place for me to get there. Had I never left KY, I may never had such a passion for KY basketball (ok...that's a lie...it's like religion in that state). Also, if my family had never made that first move to Mandeville, would my parents have eventually ended up in Houston, which made us going to the Final Four convenient? There is no way to know. But what I do know, is that fate has lead me to where I am today. Even on my saddest days, when all I could think of was how my life might be better if I still lived in KY, I had fate that it was all for a reason. I had fate, that one day I would know why destiny took me on so many moves and changes through life. Also, several recent events and random twists of fate, have helped me to realize that it was all for a REASON! When, I look back on the years I spent bitter over a move, I realize that had I not moved, I would have missed out on some many wonderful people, places, things, and experiences. People who have come and gone, things that I may not have otherwise tried, places I may have never seen, and experiences I would never have gotten to cherish.

My Road to the Final Four was a crazy journey. But I wouldn't have traded sitting in Section 115, row AA, seat 19, the other night for the world!

FATE: the will or principle or determining cause by which things in general are believed to come to be as they are or events to happen as they do : destiny

There are just some things you always love.....

2011-03-31T21:32:00.000-05:00

Thirty for 30

2011-03-15T20:59:00.010-05:00

Recently, I was reading my grandmother's sister's granddaughter's (so I guess that makes her my 3rd cousin) Whitney's blog: Witty Whits Words, and she did an awesome entry entitled "28 for 28", which was basically 28 random things about her life for her 28 trips around the sun. After reading, I was inspired to compose Thirty things for 30. Although, it would rather be 18 for 18 or 21 for 21 again, I realize that my 30 trips around the sun have been purposeful and I must pay them respect. After all, this blog was inspired in the beginning by my turning 30 in the first place. So here it goes: Thirty for 30. Please don't judge me!

1. I love my hometown of Paducah, KY. For people who have never moved around, they may not understand the love that you can have for a place that you lived that you are no longer close to. I love going back to visit and try to go once a year. Also, I plan to make the trip once a year for the rest of my life so that I never forget my roots, where I came from, or how peaceful it can be to sit where the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers meet and be at peace.

2. I love to write. I have always loved to write. However, it's only been in my recent adult life that I have been confident enough to share it with the world.

3. I love college basketball (especially KY). Although I love most sports, I think that football and baseball are just buffers between March Madness and the Tip Off Classic.

4. I had the mumps when I was 3. I may never win the lotto, but I had a one in a million illness.

5. I have a tattoo of a shamrock on my back. My mom hates it, but I love it. It reminds me of my Irish heritage and the people who came before me so that I could live the privileged life that I have.

6. When I was 6, I told my mom I wanted to be a special education teacher. Guess there are some things in life you are just sure of.

7. The first time I flew alone was when I was 14. I flew from NOLA to Miami to meet my friend Elizabeth and her mom to go on spring break in Key West. I still can't believe my parents let me do that.

8. I believe in signs from the universe. I always have. I agree with Oprah calls them, "God Whispers". I think that sometimes, God or the Universe whispers a little something into your ear to remind you that it's going to be OK.

9. I honestly believe I have the worst hair ever. I know every girl says that, but I wake up in the morning looking like Flock of Seagulls.

10. The older I get, the more I realize the importance of family. I also realize that they have and have had my best interest at heart, when I didn't think so.

11. I the year 2006, I got in 3 wrecks, none of which were my fault. I'm convinced my insurance premium will never recover.

12. I love to eat Jack in the Box....sober.

13. I drink black coffee every morning and I have since I was 4. Every morning I would go to my grandparent's house before school and my PaPaw and I would each have a cup of coffee. Occasionally, we would each have a pipe (mine blew bubbles).

14. When I was in second grade, I was on Good Morning America. They did a spotlight on Paducah and I was one of the school kids picked to be filmed standing in front of City Hall, waving and saying "GOOD MORNING AMERICA". I still have it on VHS for all who are interested.

15. I'm a democrat and proud to be one. And no, I'm not one because I jumped on a bandwagon or I listen to rhetoric from one news outlet. I have always considered myself one and I believe that my core values are those represented by that party. There was a time when I was scared to say my beliefs out of fear of offending people, but I now realize that life is too short to run scared.

16. When I was 4, I was at a baseball card show with my dad and St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Famer Ozzie Smith came over to me, picked my up, and asked my what my baby dolls name was.

17. I am absolutely terrified of mice. Finding one in your washing machine after you've done a load or two really does you in on the little critters.

18. I love to take road trips alone because it gives me the opportunity to clear my head and get back to reality.

19. I want to sky dive.

20. I'm a sucker for reality TV. The trashier.....the better.

21. I really enjoy school. I love teaching it and I love going to it. I started preschool when I was 3 and have been in school pretty much every year since then, with only a brief hiatus for 2.5 years when I was deciding on what to go to graduate school for. And although I'm done with grad school, I found myself back in school.

22. My sister Kellie and I are just about as opposite as you can get, but some how manage to be the best of friends.

23. I realize now that I took the time I had with my MaMaw as a child for granted. She was one of the best story tellers that I have ever met. She could tell a story that made you felt like you had traveled back in time.

24. I want to travel Australia one day. As far back as my memory reaches, I have been fascinated with the country.

25. When I was say, about 4 or so, I was completely over taken by Mary Lou Retton. I had a Team USA leotard that I would wear everywhere in hopes that people would think I was her.

26. Donnie Wahlberg is my favorite New Kid and is my one celebrity gimme!

27. I'm a news junkie. The first think I do every morning is check the news on my phone so that I can know what is going on in the world.

28. I still hate Laettner.

29. I sometimes tell people I'm a natural red head. It's up to them if they want to believe me.

30. I've recently come to realize that it's OK to take chances and go at something with a leap of (blind) faith.

Waiting to Shave...

2011-02-18T23:08:00.003-06:00

Recently, I had a conversation with a friend of mine about how excited we were as little girls to get to shave our legs. It just seemed so exciting at the time. We just couldn't wait. As a kid, there was just something that seemed so grown about it. I think I felt as if shaving was like crossing the threshold from a little girl to a woman. As our conversation progressed, we began laughing about how now its like a chore...almost like dusting or vacuuming the house.

After I had that conversation, I began to think and reflect on it. How, waiting to shave my legs, was kind of like a metaphor for how impatient we get to go through life. How we are wanting to always hurrying through things. I was so preoccupied with wanting to shave and "be grown", I was forgetting to stop and smell the roses. Because trust me, if I could turn back time now, I would laugh a little more and enjoy being young an innocent more than I ever thought possible.

Also, as I continued to reflect, I thought of all the things in my life I couldn't wait for, and now they're gone. I dreamed of high school and college, and now I'll never get that experience ever again. I couldn't wait to be grown and live life on my own. Now, I often miss those family dinners where we would discuss our day. I also realized, that there are many, many other things ahead of me in my life I can't wait for, but this time, I'm going to stop and smell the roses. I'm going to make it my personal quest to live life one day at a time, and not worry about what the future holds. Before I know it, the future will be the past. I realize now, that it's OK to be just where you are.

Wrigleyville Rooftop; Throwin' some bags

Chicago 2008

The End of 10......

2011-01-12T19:14:00.002-06:00

I'm a little behind on my blogging. It's crazy how we get so overwhelmed around the holidays. But it's a good kind of busy. Enjoying friends, family, fun, laughter, and delicious treats that for some reason we only indulge on at the holidays. And here we are in 2011.

Although this sounds cliche', I can't help but stop and think about is where does the time go? It seems like it was not that long ago that we were fearing Y2K. Now, we have surpassed the first decade of the 21st Century. So much has happened during this decade, that it's impossible for me to even recall half of it. I began the 21st Century as a wide eyed and somewhat naive 19 year old, and I leave the first decade this Century as a 30 year old on the brink of living a wonderful life. In those fist 10 years, I have learned so many things. Things that I will carry on with me through the decades to come. I have learned the value and benefits of a good nights sleep, how a song can take you back to a wonderful place and time, how to be a good teacher, and how years ago can suddenly seem like yesterday.

Many people, places, and things have come into my life during these 10 years, some have quickly gone, some have stayed for a while, others will last a lifetime. Here's to the next 10!

30 Great Trips around the Sun......

2010-11-28T21:28:00.002-06:00

8th Birthday

1988, Paducah, KY

(I've always had bad hair)

As of 8:08 pm yesterday, it's official. My 20s are gone, and a new decade has been born. Hard to believe that I've had 30 trips around the sun. Some trips were better than others, but any trip around the sun, is a good one. I've met many people, learned many lessons, and fallen in and out of love. It's amazing how things that happened years and decades ago, seem like they were only yesterday. Here's to the past 30 trips around the sun, the many more to come, and the fabulous journey along the way!

A Party: 30 Years in the Making

2010-11-21T20:51:00.004-06:00

This past Saturday, I had my Dirty Thirty party. Although I have a few days of my 20s left, this past Saturday was the time to celebrate. The theme was "A Funeral to my 20s", because I wanted to give them the honor and respect that I deserve. My 20s were filled with fun, adventure, laughter, and tears. Some of my closest friends even read to me eulogies to my 20s, in which they recalled their favorite memories. It was almost surreal to to sit back and think of the many things that have come and gone in this decade. The things we did and the things we should have never done.

I've also realized, that my life may not be where I "think" it should be, but it's right where it is suppose to be. Had the things that I "thought" were suppose to happen in my 20s took place, there is so much that I would have missed out on. My number of Dave concerts would be significantly lower, I may not have seen Times Square in NYC, or celebrated my 29th birthday in Vegas. I may not have the friends that I have now, and would not have those girls to laugh with and call up to cry with.

Turning 30 is only a stepping stone in my life. It's the dawning of a new decade in my life, new people, new places, and new things. Also, time to start thinking of my Fabulous Forty party!

When Fall Arrives....

2010-10-22T22:07:00.005-05:00

For some reason, when ever fall arrives, I find myself getting a little homesick and missing KY. I can't help it or explain it. This time of year always finds me thinking back and wanting to go "home".

I'm not really sure what it is. Perhaps is that I miss the changing of the leaves. I remember every year when fall would come, my dad would rake and blow the leaves in the back yard and my sister, Kellie and I would run in the back yard and jump around in them. Maybe it's because I can't go to an apple orchard. A tradition of many in my hometown of Paducah, KY, was going to Schmidt's Farm, picking apples from the tree, taking a hay ride, and playing in hay stacks. And chances are it could be that some of my fondest memories of childhood are the annual Fall Festival at my school, Morgan Elementary. It always seemed as if it would fall on a night with the crisp autumn air was at its best. Or it could be because fall marks the beginning of college basketball season and I miss how excited we would get as the Cats began the road to the Final Four.

I guess there is a lot of truth to the saying that you don't know what you got until it's gone. I'm sure that I didn't always want to go to the apple orchard, that I thought the fall festival was uncool, and I would complain that that my dad was hogging the TV when the Cats played. I guess then, I didn't know that there would come a day when I would long for those moments.

Recently, someone questioned me as to why I love Kentucky basketball so much if I don't live there (as if to say that you must have a permanent residence somewhere to be a fan of their team). My response was simple. I politely looked at them and said, "If you left Louisiana, would you suddenly forget the things that made Louisiana special in your heart?" I think the understood after that.

Although I'm far away now and I truly believe that there is a reason as to why faith has taken me on the journey that it has. However, there will always be a piece of my heart that finds itself in the Bluegrass State.

The Evolution of a Blog=The Evolution of Me

2010-10-06T22:58:00.003-05:00

As far back as I can remember, I've always enjoyed writing. I find it a stress free way to share my thoughts and feelings with myself and with the world when I choose to do so. I write all the time (more than most people realize it). If I ever kick the bucket early, chances are I'll be like Anne Frank in the sense that people will find my journals all over the place (for some reason I don't keep just one. I have tons of notebooks, pads, and journals that I have written in over the years).

When I first set out with this blog about a year ago, it's only purpose was to document my 29th year. However, it has evolved into much more than that. It has become my link to the rest of the world to share my thoughts, feelings, memories, hopes, and dreams. In writing and keeping up with this blog, I've feel like I have reinvented myself. I have found out more of who I am, who I was, and who it is I want to be. However, I am no where near done evolving. I believe that there is always room for change and room for improvement.

A year ago, I was literally terrified of turning 30. It scared the Hell out of me. For some reason, I had this notion that your 20s were the time in your life when it was OK to be silly and live for the day and that when I hit 30 I was going to be old and have to give up "childish" things. However, blogging has helped me to reflect on the past, present, and future. And in doing so, I have realized that turning 30 is just another bump in the road and there is a lot more living left to do. Although I've done a lot and lived to tell about it, I plan on doing much more. I'm no longer going to worry about what I perceive as the social norms of what I should be doing at this stage in my life. Rather, I'm going to live in the moment and cherish each day.

The other day I was thinking if I would have to change the name of my blog after my birthday. And after thinking, I realized that if it were not for "Katie's 20s Farewell Tour" I might not be as ready to turn 30. I will keep the title, keep up with it, and watch it evolve alongside me!

NCAA Tournament

NOLA 2010

GO BIG BLUE!!!

20s: The Dry Run Decade

2010-10-03T17:14:00.004-05:00

I've spent the last year of my 20s living off of fear and faith. Fear that I'm getting old and may not do all the things that I want to and the faith that everything falls into place when it's time. Recently, while out in Dallas, I had a conversation about turning 30 with someone who was about to turn 40. And as I expressed to them my fears about entering a new decade, they gave me some pretty practical and good advice. Your 20s is pretty much a dry run for the rest of you life. Although it seemed a bit strange at the time, the more I thought about it, the more sense it made to me.

For me, my 20s was my first shot at being a real live, bill paying, 9-5 working adult. It's the first experience in being 100% self sufficient. I had to do my own laundry, get the oil in my car changed, pay bills on time, and along the way I made some mistakes and learned many lessons. It's almost like my 20s have been a dress rehearsal for the rest of my life. I've learned how important it is to save money, live on a budget, and have something tucked away for those unexpected expenses. I've also learned that if you let the laundry pile up for too long, you wake up with nothing decent to wear to work.

So, although I've been rather fearful of hitting this new decade, I'm slowly coming to grips with it. Although I'm sure that it will teach me many more life lessons, I also have the life experiences to go with it this time. So, if your out there listening 30: BRING IT ON! I'M PREPARED!

LaFonda's

2008

Nothing But the Road and the Radio

2010-09-23T20:04:00.004-05:00

People often ask me how I can get in the car and drive alone (which I don't get. It's the 21st Century, girls can do that sort of thing now). I know that for many people that getting in the car, fighting traffic, and navigating for hours can be so tedious, but for me, it's complete and total relaxation.

We all have different ways of dealing with the stresses in our lives. Some of us run, some of us drink (ok, we all know I'm lying if I say I don't do that), some of us take a walk, but me, I prefer being behind the wheel of my car with nothing but the road and the radio (with a mix of junk food, Starbucks, and diet cokes). I have a very diverse mix on my iPod; country, 80s rock, 2 Live Crew, and everything in between. And when I'm behind that wheel rocking out, the stresses in my life seem to disappear momentarily and reflections of the past, present, and future run through my mind.

For me, a road trip provides me with an overwhelming sensation of excitement and relaxation. I'm excited because I'm heading to some place fun and possibly new to see a great friend and/or wonderful family member. And I'm relaxed because while in that car looking at the road ahead, my mind is at ease and I achieve a sense of peace. A sense of satisfaction because I have nothing to do for the time being except to enjoy the road and the radio. And I get to do it all while being a first hand witness to our beautiful country.

Guest Post from Senior Chief Petty Officer and Author: John Quinn

2010-09-12T21:23:00.010-05:00

Recently, I was surfing the web for children's books that have characters with children of various ability levels for my classroom. The reason behind this is because I believe that being exposed to various abilities, is just as important as being exposed to various races, ethnicities, and cultures. However, as I was searching, I came across author John Quinn, who wrote the memoir: Someone Like Me, An Unlikely Story of Challenge and Triumph over Cerebral Palsy. It is written in his own words and tells his story of over coming Cerebral Palsy and becoming a Senior Chief Petty Officer in the United States Navy; the second highest rank for an enlisted person in the Navy.

As a special educator, I was very inspired by his story. Because one thing that I try to instill in my students early on, is that their disability is not a limitation on their life. Instead, I try to help them discover what their ABILITY is.

Mr. Quinn was gracious enough to be a guest blogger on my sight today to share with all of us his take on the word disability. I also invite all of you to read his book and check him out at: www.johnquinn.com

Pushing Yourself to Find Your Ability

The word disability really bothers me. Look at the word again. I am not an English major, but I know that the prefix “dis” means the absence of. So the word disability means the absence of ability. If that’s the case, then yes, I have a disability. I cannot do fractions. In fact, when it comes to anything having to do with math, I struggle mightily. When it comes to home improvements or car repairs, I don’t know which end of the screwdriver to hold. Another disability.

But there are many areas of my life in which I am very capable. Some big, others small. Everyone has some ability to offer this world. You just have to find it. It might be hidden deep down inside you, just yearning to come out. For my disabled friends, don’t let your handicap hold you back. Don’t listen to the people that tell you it cannot be done. My parents told me that I could do anything that I put my mind to and I believe that to be true for anyone, regardless of obstacles faced. If you don’t push yourself to find your ability, who will? Franklin Delano Roosevelt suffered with polio and became President of the United States. Albert Einstein didn’t talk until the age of three and was severely dyslexic. The English author/poet Milton lost his sight at the age of 43 and then wrote the classic tale Paradise Lost. How about Bonnie St. John who won silver and two bronze medals in the 1984 Paralympic Games as a ski racer; graduated with honors from Harvard University won a Rhodes Scholarship to Oxford. Did I fail to mention that Bonnie has one leg? What would the world be like if these people had given up? Can you imagine FDR saying, “I can’t do it, it’s too hard.”

Have you always wanted to paint but thought it was a waste of time? Perhaps you've felt a strong desire to get up on stage in your community theater but were ridiculed when you shared your dream out loud? I have been laughed at. Most people thought it was nuts for a guy with cerebral palsy to even dream of joining the Navy. Mocking turned to cheers 20 years later when I retired as a Senior Chief Petty Officer. When I decided I wanted to write my memoir, some scoffed. “You’ve never written anything before. “What makes you think you can write a book?” Well, Someone Like Me, An Unlikely Story of Challenge and Triumph over Cerebral Palsy was published this past April. It appears that I have the ability to put my thoughts down on paper is such a way that others enjoy reading them.

You might not become President of the United States, discover new math theories, or write an epic novel. But then again, you might. So I ask you. What’s your ability?

My Bucket List

2010-09-06T22:17:00.007-05:00

With 30 looming on the horizon, it has really made me look at my own mortality. It's not that I think that I'm going to shrivel up and die once I hit the Big 3-0. It's just that it makes me realize how precious our time here on Earth is. After all, these 30 years have flown by faster than I would have ever imagined. It seems like only yesterday my PaPaw was walking me home from kindergarten. And here I am.

I have also realized that there are so many things out there that I want to see and do before I die. And if I don't write them down make the list immortal in cyberspace, I may never do them all. So here it is: Katie's Bucket List

1. Go skydiving. I can't really explain it. It is just something that I have always wanted to do; free falling through the sky and landing in nature. I can't think of anything more exhilarating and peaceful all at the same time.

2. Visit Australia. As far back as I can remember, I have always wanted to go to this country. I am fascinated by all it has to offer. It has such a vast array of people that extend from city goers to Aborigines.

3. Take a road trip to no where. Half the fun of traveling is getting there. Well, I say double your fun and make the whole trip about getting there! I just want to get in the car with nothing but a fun friend, good tunes, and my GPS and set out to NO WHERE! I think it's a wonderful way to experience life, culture, and our wonderful country!

4. Learn to scuba dive. Ever since my dad rented me Free Willy to watch on a snow day when school was canceled, I have been fascinated with marine life. I would love to one day be at one with them. Experience their world.

5. Visit NYC with my mom. My mom and I have both visited NYC on separate occasions and both have a love affair with the city. However, we have not been there together. We talk about it all the time, and one day, it will happen! I envision us going to the statue of liberty and visiting Ellis Island and walking through the same gates her great-grandfather came through when he came over from Ireland. I can't wait to see a Broadway show with her and eat a gourmet cupcake in Times Square. Hell, we might even dance the night away in Harlem!

6. Have Something Published. I have always had a passion for writing. It has something that I have enjoyed since I was a kid. Not sure why. I have always found at as a means of relieving stress and worries from my head. And although having your mother and friends tell you you have a knack for writing, nothing would make me prouder than to have something I created, published, for the world to see. And nothing would mean more to me than to have people, who have nothing invested into my life, to pick it up and enjoy what I have to write about.

7. Visit Every State in the United States. Although I have been to many different states, I want to see them all before I leave this world. I truly believe that we live in the greatest country on the planet. And I want to see every wonderful and different people, place, thing, food, and fun that it has to offer.

8. Go On A Game Show. I feel like I've already been cheated out of this one. When I was in college I tried out for college week on "Wheel of Fortune" and I made it all the way to the final and didn't get picked. But I WILL redeem this one day. I have a few games shows I would like to go on, but other than that I'm not picky about which one. However, I would prefer Wheel (if they'll have me this time), Price is Right, Let's Make a Deal, or Press Your Luck (if it ever comes back on!).

Skyline Chili
Cincinnati
2008

My Word: SPONTANEITY

2010-09-06T20:53:00.006-05:00

My last blog was about the wonderful book/movie Eat, Pray, Love. For those of you who haven't read the book and/or seen the movie, one thing she does while on her journey is to find her word. The word the defines how she lives her life. And THAT is what I'm going to share with you today.

I had to think long and hard to find the word the defines how I live my life. I mean, there are many words that can define who I am. Sister, daughter, friend, teacher, writer, smartass. But I wanted the word that defines how I will live my life. That word is: SPONTANEITY. Which is the act of being spontaneous.

Although I believe that there is a certain amount of planning and organization that is necessary in order to carry on day to day, I love setting out with no plans and having the time of my life. The best memories of my life are from days, nights, and in the wee hours of the morning when I had absolutely no plans. I could go on for hours with the things I've done out of spontaneity, but I'll just give you a brief run down. There was Spring Break '99 when me and a life long friend of mine had a very adventurous night in Key West that involved a beach and a Navy base. Probably not one of the wisest choices that we ever made, but surely one of my fondest memories of high school. Then was when I got my tattoo. I was walking down Canal St. in NOLA with my girl Andrea and decided I wanted one (I had always wanted one, but was scared my mom would be mad at me!). So we stopped, and I did it. Got a shamrock on my back. And to this day, I don't regret it and don't think I ever will. I can't wait 'til my own children ask about it one day and I tell them about getting it. And how their grandmother didn't like it when she found out and still doesn't like it! Then there was the day I met Bill Clinton. I remember it was a Friday, because that year I didn't have students on Fridays. I read in the paper that Bill Clinton was going to be making a campaign stop for Hillary. Since I had always been fond of the Clintons, I wasn't going to miss this for the world! So I took a half day off, got there first, and shook hands with #42. When I told him I was a teacher, he thanked me for being a teacher. Words that echo through my head every time I have a bad day and feel defeated at work. Then there was the infamous 2 Live Crew Concert. I had gone out for sushi and drinks with some girls from work, and ended up sneaking into the show and danced to nasty music all night long. There are many other moments of spontaneity in my past. Many random road trips to NOLA and ending up in the only hotel in America with no phone book and a number to a cab that was disconnected. Going out for a quiet evening and partying 'til the sun comes up with complete strangers. There is even the time I found out my Cats were playing in the tourney in NOLA and minutes later I had tickets in my hand.

I love living life without a plan. It adds variety to what would be an otherwise mundane existence. I think there is a lot of truth to the saying "The best laid plans fall flat". Because the best memories of my life, were not planned out at all. I would like to say that I wish I knew what the rest of my life had in store, but that would that the spontaneity out of the whole thing.....

Katie & Jen

Leesville Toga Party

Circa 2007

Eat, Pray, Love

2010-08-22T20:46:00.008-05:00

The novel Eat, Pray, Love has for a long time been one of my very favorite books. It is the wonderful and almost unbelievable, but true story of a woman's search for self-realization. Although her life is wonderful, she realizes that there is something that is missing. So she sets out for a year long journey to find out who she really is. She spends four months eating her way through Italy, four more praying her way through India, and the final four loving her way through Bali. At the end, she finally has a sense of peace and a better understanding of who she really is.

Now that this wonderful novel has become a motion picture, I have realized once again what a great story it is; a story I think that all young women should read and learn from. Last week, Julia Roberts was on Oprah, and Oprah asked her and others what the words Eat, Pray, Love mean to them. So, I've decided to share with the blogoshpere what those words mean to me.

EAT
Webster's dictionary defines the word eat as: to take in through the mouth as food : ingest, chew, and swallow in turn. However, there is much more meaning to it than that. For many women, including myself, the word eat and the action of eating is almost a taboo thought. From a young age, many women are made to feel that by eating, we will ruin our figure and in doing so, we will change or perhaps damage the perceptions that people have about us. However, as I get older, I realize that tomorrow is never promised, so while I'm here, I should enjoy eating the best foods and savoring them while I can. I should eat what I want, enjoy it, and not worry about how it may affect my love or social life. After all, like it says in the book and movie, no man ever left the room with a naked girl after he saw her stomach. He was just glad to be in the room with a naked girl. Also, I think that there is a social pleasure that also comes along with eating. I love getting together with friends both old and new over a good dinner or a girls lunch. It's such a pleasure to enjoy savory foods while catching up on each others lives.

PRAY
The word and action of praying takes on variety of meanings to people all over the world. I would even venture to say that most people would describe the word pray in vastly different ways and give it different meanings. To me, pray and praying takes place at the end of the night when no one else is around. It is accepting that there is something, a power, in this world that is bigger than me. Although I am not always sure who or what it is, I believe that there is someone or something out there pulling the strings of the universe. I honestly believe that there is no such thing as a coincidence and that things that happen, happen for a reason; even though we may not realize until way further down the line. So when I pray, I talk to the person pulling the strings. And for whatever reason, I whisper. Not sure why. Just what I've always done. Also, it's a part of my routine every night....I can't go to sleep without doing it.

LOVE
Initially, when we think of love, we think of flowers and roses and romantic dates. But I believe that love extends into having a passion. Whether it is a passion for a person, place, hobby, or thing. I believe that in order to add purpose to my life, I should try as hard as I possibly can to love every aspect of it...both good and bad. I love my job and the impact that it has on this world. I love to travel and experience new cultures so that I can better understand the world in which I live in. I love my friends and family because they are they keys to my past, present, and my future. I love the look on a parent's face when I told them their child spoke for the first time in class. I love the feeling I get every time I step off a plane in a new travel destination. I love the excitement that takes over my body every time the Cats win. I even love sleeping in on the weekends, drinking a cup of black coffee, and catching up on reality TV, because it truly is the little things that make life worth living.

With all that being said, I plan to Eat, Pray, Love, my way through the rest of my life. I feel that by doing this, like in the book and the movie, I will find the truer meaning of my purpose in this world.

And for those of you who have read the book and/or seen the movie, I'm still in search of my "word". The word that will define how I live my life!

Over Halfway There........

2010-08-01T18:50:00.004-05:00

The other day, I recently realized that I am over halfway finished with my 20s farewell tour. And in just four short months, I will hit the Dirty Thirty. Although I'm still not thrilled about it, I'm slowly coming to terms with it. After all, it can't be that bad. People have turned 30 for years and have lived to tell about it.

I do have to say that so far, this last year of my 20s has been an awesome one. A roller coaster ride of sorts. I have learned more about myself and others than I ever thought I would. I used to think I liked red wine, and I've learned that I love white. I've even rediscovered my love for the Counting Crows through the magic of Pandora Radio. I'm also slowly learning that each and every year of my life has a significant purpose and lessons to be learned. Maybe 30 won't be as bad as I thought and I can't wait to discover what the next decade is holding in store for me. Life, after all, is all good.

Sometimes a Song Says it All.....

2010-07-14T18:42:00.002-05:00

Late Night Ramblings

2010-07-14T00:29:00.004-05:00

I'm a free spirit and I don't ever plan on changing.

I'm a free thinker and I use that to inspire my everyday life.

I love my job because I get to change lives and finger paint all at the same time.

I love to laugh so bring on the funny.

On the worst days of my life I have found something to laugh about.

I love to read and learn because it helps my brain grow.

I love to travel to new places because it opens up my world.

I love my friends and family because they are the links to my past and the keys to my future.

I believe that the differences in our world is what makes it worth living in.

Inspiration

2010-07-09T22:28:00.003-05:00

http://www.parents.com/app/voting/index.jsp?id=/templatedata/parents/voting/data/1269982405784.xml&mediaItemID=/sharemy/06062010/20837085

I recently came across this link. It is the Parent's Magazine annual contest for the cover baby. This is Solona who was born with Down Syndrome. She is currently in first place. If she wins she will be the first baby with Down Syndrome to grace the cover. Let's make this happen and promote equality in our world.

When We Were Young

2010-06-22T21:04:00.005-05:00

Recently, I stumbled across a shoe box full of old photos from my years at college. As I dug my hands through the box, I found moments in time captured on paper. Nights that I can't remember, with friends I won't ever forget. Looking through these pictures reminded me of laughing with friends, heartbreaks, secrets, and studying the night before an exam.

I remember vividly growing up hearing my mom tell stories of her college days. She told stories so animated that one would have thought that she had partied at Studio 54. When in actuality she was at Murray State University. Before I knew it, I was in college making my very own memories to share with my daughter someday.

I'm pretty sure that as we were out there making memories, we had no idea how fast time was passing, and in the blink of an eye, we would be grown. Too old to go to bars and dance on the table.

However, looking through this once forgotten box of photos, reminded me how important it is to hang on to the memories of our youth. Hanging on to these memories help us to remember the people we once were and what has happened in our lives to shape the people we are today.

I posted a few pics on Facebook and an old friend and sorority sister made the comment "We look so young". Well, it was because we were. However, being young is a very purposeful part of our lives. It is the only time in our lives where we can make bad decisions and have our friends help us to justify them the next day. It is the years where we are allowed to waste money on food, beer, and clothes, and call our parents because we need a little extra to make it to the end of the month. If we are never given the chance to be be young, we will never have the time and experiences needed that mold us into the adults we will later become. As I was looking through these photos, I realized that the same girls I would party and gossip with then, have become such magnificent women today. They are teachers, nurses, physical therapist, business women, and mommies just to name a few. Thanks ladies for helping making memories!

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-20T20:04:00.003-05:00

Happy Father's Day to the man that gave me the genetic predisposition for a love of beer, sports, dirty jokes, horse racing, education, and rock music. I love you and wouldn't be here without you!

Katie Woodling, M.Ed

2010-06-20T19:59:00.004-05:00

So part of the reason I was slacking in the spring, was because I was busy finishing up a little project, Grad School. But on May 15, 2010, I made it!

Katie's Paducah Sojourn

2010-06-20T19:31:00.012-05:00

So, I've been a slacker lately...my apologies. I have no other excuse than general laziness. But I wanted to take a moment to discuss my trip back to Paducah, KY...my hometown. I was born there on Thanksgiving Day 1980. Although I left when I was 10, piece of me is always there and will always be there.

I just so happened to be lucky enough to visit during the Nation Quilting Expo (for those of you who may not know, Paducah is home of the National Quilting Museum and is know by Quilters near and far as "Quilt City USA".

I also mad a stop by one of my favorite hole in the walls in the world, Starne's BBQ. It hasn't changed a bit since I was a kid and I love it. The menu is very simple: pulled meat sandwiches, RC, and Tom's chips.

Also, while I was there, I sat on of my favorite riverbanks...where the Ohio meets the Tennessee. I spent so much of my childhood there. Playing, eating ice cream with my family, and enjoying the annual summer festival. And as faith would have it, I just so happened to unknowingly sit on a bench there that was dedicated to the memory of my late neighbors.

And there was even something new there: A WINERY! I thought I had died and gone to Heaven, but Donnie Wahlberg wasn't there with me. But I did enjoy some good wines and even bought a case to bring back!

And while I was there, I took a ride through my old neighborhood to see my grandparents house and the house that built me. Going there brings back many bittersweet memories. I love going back to visit and every time I'm there, I can't help but wonder what life would have been like had I never left....

Going "Home"

2010-03-15T18:46:00.007-05:00

We all have things that are a special piece of our lives. Something that we carry close to our hearts. Many times these are things that mean so much to us and we love so much, that others just can't comprehend it. For me, it's Kentucky Basketball. As far back as my memory reaches, I have loved KY basketball. It really wasn't an option in my house. You loved them...end of story. I remember watching the games as a little girl and even dressing up as the KY Wildcat one year for Halloween. I remember the heartbreak in '92 and the return to greatness in '96. No matter where my life goes, I will always bleed blue.

Although I love where my life journey has taken me, I still get homesick for the Bluegrass State. I long to be where basketball is life, and the other sports are just details in the fall. I miss the excitement that came with March and how our teachers would let us watch KY play, rather than doing work on that day. I love taking part in that "GO BIG BLUE" cheer as the boys enter the stage. I miss it all.

But this weekend is a homecoming of sorts for me. My boys are playing in New Orleans in the tournament and I have tickets. I can't wait. I don't think my friends quite get why I'm so excited. But the thing is, I can't just get in the car and drive back to the Bluegrass, but I can go to NOLA to cheer on the boys with a few thousand of my closet friends. Who says you can't go home?

I will always be a part of KY and they will always be a part of me!

But for those of you who might not understand, this song says it all:

The Carnival: A Metaphor for Life....

2010-03-05T22:16:00.007-06:00

I never imagined that I would be on the verge of 30 and being a real live grown up. But here I am. And like most people, I often had to hear my parents give that classic lecture "you'll be an adult someday and understand". And like most people, I rolled my eyes and said it wouldn't happen to me. But here I am. I GET IT!

I feel like I'm at a crossroads in my life. I'm 29, single, have a career, completing my Master's, and not a clue about what I want to do with the rest of my life. And like most people out there, I often compare my life to that of others. What they have done, where they have been, how they live. When in reality, no of us have any clue as to what internal struggles that others face. For all we know, they could look at our lives with envy. However, it doesn't change the fact that I'm having my own internal struggle with what it is I want to do with my life. I thought by now, it would all be laid out. But the fact of the matter is that I'm just as lost as I was as a little girl.

However, it occurred to me the other day, that a day that the carnival is a perfect metaphor for live. It is filled with fun and adventure. Some of the rides are fast and fun. Others are slow and relaxing. Sometimes, they even scare you. It is always filled with food that is not good for you and things on a stick that you try just for fun.

The people at the carnival also play a very important role. It is always filled with such a variety and mixture. There are people that go with a group of friends just to have a good time. There are people that are there for the adventure. Families come to create memories that will last a lifetime. Sometimes people are afraid of the rides, and sometimes they try something they never thought they would. Others stick to the ones they know are safe.

I realized, that I'm going to enjoy the adventure of the carnival. I'm going to try all the rides and get one the ones that I think are going to scare me. After all, trying new things that can scare you are just part of the fun.

In addition, I recently compared my life to looking into Pandora's Box. I just never seem to know what's going to pop out. But someone reminded me, there's always hope at the bottom of the box. That's what I needed to hear today.

You never know where you're going to find hope. After all, I ran into it the middle of Times Square once.

You live. You learn.

2010-02-23T21:23:00.009-06:00

As I slowly make my exit from 20s and approach the 30s on ramp, I realize that there are a ton of ignorant people out there. On being Kansas state delegate Bob Marshall of Kansas. Who had the nerve to say that parents who give birth to children with disabilities are being punished by God because they had abortions. Seriously?

I have spent the past seven years and have dedicated my career to working with children with special needs and their families. Children with special needs are no punishment at all. In fact, I think that they are Gifts from God sent to us from Heaven. They teach us so much more about life than we could ever teach them. They teach us that the littlest things can equal the greatest of accomplishments. They teach us that you can be presented with the greatest adversities that life has to offer, over come them, and achieve beyond any means that we could have ever imagined in our own lives. Their families are presented with challenges that the average person would not dare to take on themselves. They take on this challenge without being asked.

And who does Bob Marshall think he is? Whom or what gives him the right to pass judgement as to why someone has a child with a disability? The schools in Kansas must have failed him. Most disabilities can be scientifically linked to a gene or a chromosomal abnormality (or is that reserved only to those of us that believe that science exist?).

http://www.newsleader.com/article/20100222/NEWS01/2220318

Me and Mr. Wiggins

2010-02-08T22:57:00.003-06:00

This past weekend I got the opportunity to go see my Kentucky Wildcats play. It was awesome. It's hard to explain the passion that the Big Blue Nation has for its team. They're die hard, life long fans. They love their boys win or loose. They sell out every game. Their fans show up and hour and a half early for the games to see that warm ups. I was in Heaven at the game. Sitting with my fellow Big Blue Nation Followers chanting "Go Big Blue!".

While we were there early, we saw an gentleman by the name of Mr. Wiggins. He's truly a life long Wildcat fan. He has been to nearly 700 games in a row. Both home and away. I had to introduce myself to him, because someone who is that dedicated is just as much of the team as the players. I hope that one day I have the same passion as Mr. Wiggins.

Being 20 something...and trying to figure it all out.

2010-02-04T20:17:00.002-06:00

Theres's a lot to be said for being in your 20s. And early 20s hardly compares to late 20s...I mean, how can they? When I was in my early, early 20s, my biggest worry was getting to class on time, meeting the girls for lunch, and keeping up on the latest drink specials. And now, I worry about bills, family, grad school, and figuring out what it is I want to do with the rest of my life. I mean, I kinda have an idea, but no real plans. I know that I want to work with children with special needs and truly make an impact on their lives. But other than that, I'm clueless. But, like the quote says, "We must be willing to let go of the life we have planned so as to accept the life that is waiting for us". My life may not be where I though it would be, but maybe that's a good thing. At one point in time I wanted to marry Kirk Cameron, and look at that crazy bastard now.

2010.....Let's Get It On!

2010-01-01T22:44:00.003-06:00

Well, I can pretty much sum up the year 2009 with one of the suckiest years of my life. It's not that anything life altering or Earth shaking took place, it simply just wasn't my year. Oh, but I must get psyched up for 2010...after all I have a great big Dirty 30 party waiting for me in November!

Also, I plan to make 2010 the year that counts! I made a New Year's resolution to try one new thing each and every week. It may be big or small, simple or complicated, but I am going to do it. I'm also going to say what's on my mind more often, rather than keep it to myself because I don't want to upset others. They sure aren't worried about upsetting me. But most of all, I plan to make things happen this year....big things...new things....and changes!

It's not just basketball....It's KY basketball!

2009-12-21T22:51:00.002-06:00

Growing up in Paducah, KY, I always thought that people all over the nation shared a passion for college basketball. It wasn't until I left the Bluegrass State and headed to the Dirty South that I found out that the passion that people felt in KY was one in a million. It is like no other. As a little girl, I remember my dad getting so worked up watching the games on the TV and how excited everyone (and I mean EVERYONE) would get when March finally arrived. They are truly a dynasty. And until you've been to a true blue game, you will never understand. It is something that can't be explained...only experienced.

Tonight, my boys became the first team in NCAA history to reach 2,000 wins. I have never been so proud to Bleed Blue!

20s Farewell Tour First Stop: Vegas

2009-12-15T20:39:00.002-06:00

About 3 months ago my older sister, Kellie (or Dr. Woodling as our mom likes to call her) called me up and asked me if I would go to Vegas to see Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds, her gift to me for hitting the big 2-9. Pretty much, a great big Hell yeah was in order. I mean, why would I say no.....

So this past weekend, off we went. It was an adventure from the moment I got to the Lafayette airport. First of all we were suppose to leave at 6:25 am. Well, at 6:15 no one had showed up to the counter to tell us to board our plane. Next, some crazy lady who was on the flight, took it upon herself to pick up the phone at the ticket counter and call someone to tell them we needed to get on our plane. When we finally go onto the plane, guess who was in my seat, the crazy lady. Next, the flight attendant proceeded to tell us all to be quiet, that she wouldn't talk over us, and that if we missed our connections it wasn't her fault.....nice. Well, after running through the airport, I finally made my connection.

Vegas was awesome, and Dave was sensational as usual. There is just something about his music that mesmerizes me. He even played few of my favorites such as Two Step, Loving Wings, and You and Me. However, Dave was high as a kite, but put on a terrific show none the less. And Tim Reynolds was a genius......listening to the two of them play is almost like being on a natural high.

While I was there, I realized that being "almost 30" really isn't that bad. And everywhere I went to drink, I was carded and told I didn't look old enough to drink. I was thinkin', I'm on the edge of 30 buddy.....

Anyway, many thanks to my sister and I can't wait to see what my next adventure will be.....

Thank You Santa!

2009-12-10T20:58:00.000-06:00

If she knew what she wants.....

2009-12-05T14:34:00.002-06:00