I'll Fly Away...

Yesterday, I heard that news that Mr. Doug Wilhelm had passed away. While I know the grief is unbearable for his family and friends, I started thinking about how this journey has impacted many people. For me, I am thankful that my faith has been rejuvenated through the readings of Mrs. Nicole's posts. Although I knew Mrs. Nicole because I babysat her wonderful daughters, I now know her differently. She has taught me strength, faith, and love, and I am forever grateful to Mr. Doug for giving the world his incredible daughter. I also believe that through this difficult time, many people have understood that life is short, and you should always tell those special people in your life just how much you love them. In church Sunday, Pastor Eddie talked about your "welcoming committee" in heaven. I am sure that when Mr. Doug arrived, his welcoming committee was filled with smiles and said, "Look how many people prayed because of you." The prayer that surrounded Mr. Doug during all this was tremendous and powerful, to say the least. I thank God for Mr. Doug and the way he has truly impacted not only Aiken, but the world. Somewhere in the Bible states that through weakness we gain strength. I believe this is true. Although this is an extremely difficult time, I know that God has a plan. Some of it has already been shown, but I know there is more to come. Please continue to pray for the Wilhelm/Simmons family at this time.

Football and Fun...

So, I do realize that it has been a while since my last post. Now it is time for some "catch up". Since my last post, the Clemson Tigers had an amazing game beating the Auburn Tigers. I was back and forth between my phone and a tv watching the game. Georgia finally won against Coastal Carolina...and it's a dang good thing. In other exciting news, I won tickets to the Clemson vs. FSU game! So, we took the beautiful trip up to Clemson for my second time but first actual football game. I was overwhelmed by the whole experience but loved every minute of it. I got to spend some quality time with my wonderful friend, Kathleen, and the Clemson Tigers pulled off another amazing victory. The three of us even made it onto ESPN. Truth be told, I am still recovering from the excitement. Kathleen, her mother, and I wore ribbons to support the Simmons/Wilhem family. Here are the pictures from one of the best days I think I have ever had...

For those of you who are wondering, I have not abonded my Georgia Dawgs. I was catching glimpes of the Ole Miss game during tailgating, and was so happy to hear that Georgia won. However, there is something 'bout them hills! Oh, and I am still trying not to complain even though the six days are over. I catch myself every once in a while, but after a weekend like this what do I have to complain about?

Bring On the Germ-X...

So, tonight I am going to see Contagion, and I have to admit I am nervous and excited at the same time. I have always been raised on expressions such as, "God made dirt, and dirt don't hurt; so put it in your mouth, and let it work." I've been convinced that the world is a little too "germ crazy", and that's what is causing all the sicknesses. However, the idea that whatever happens in this movie is even slightly possible has made me contemplate whether or not I should be concerned with germs more. Knowing me, I'll probably see the movie tonight, be a "clean-freak" for the next couple of days, and then go back to my old ways I've inherited from my Grandma. And to give you an update, I have not (to my knowledge) complained in two days, and I have never felt better. Keep the Wilhelm/Simmons family in your prayers during this difficult time, and remember to "always be content".

School and Volleyball...

Today, I had another "ahha" moment. After being late to Spanish class, I probably could've had a lot to complain about, but I am trying to remember my six day challenge in honor of Mr. Doug Wilhelm. After being late, I deciding volunteering to write my homework answers on the board would somehow balance out the lateness. My answer was wrong, but I wasn't alone. To make a long story short, we were placed in groups after my professor's frustration. I noticed that someone in my group who I will call "quiet guy" was clearly not understanding the work. That is when my "ahha" moment happened. After explaining the concept to him, his face completely changed, and he looked at me and said, "Thank you, you actually explained that better than she did." I smiled and thought to myself, "This is why I want to become a teacher." To see a person understand something right before your eyes is what makes me smile. Only two years to go...watch out future students, my smiles are coming your way! On a different note, the first church league volleyball game is tonight. Well, it's technically the second, but we were at the beach last week and missed the first one. However, we had a "formal" practice on the beach, and I think we are all ready to go. So go Millbrook! Let's just hope I won't hit anybody in the back of the head this time with my serves...

The Six Day Challenge...

"...for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content."   -Philippians 4:11

I try to stop myself from complaining, but I do it quite often during the day. I now have a new reason to stop myself from complaining. During the summer, I babysat two girls named Madelyn and Meredith. On one of my weeks off, their grandfather suffered a heart attack, and has now been in the hospital for six weeks. Madelyn and Meredith's mother, Nicole, has been the epitome of strength and faith during this time. Everyday she posts a new update of her father's condition. On the post today she gave us another inspirational homework assignment: to stop complaining for six days. I take this challenge head on because of my love and support for this family and the necessity to truly be content in my life. Truth is, I have no reason to complain. I am incredibly blessed. I challenge you to take this challenge, as well, and to pray for the Wilhelm/Simmons family. If you want to learn more about this incredible family, you can read Mrs. Nicole's amazing updates at caringbridge.org/visit/dougwilhelm.

Sweet Tea and Picker Sisters...

So, unfortunately the boyfriend is working nights again tonight. However, this frees me up to cook a supper for the family and sit down to my new favorite show, Picker Sisters. I have become crazy about this show lately. I've always enjoyed old, worn down things, but seeing them being transformed into incredible furniture pieces has made the wheels turn in my brain. I think I have become annoying. I am constantly seeing things that I want to transform. So is it safe to say I am a "picker sister"? I think so. Maybe in the posts to come you will see my creations. Watch Picker Sisters tonight. I know I will be!

A preview of what's to come...

Football...

Food...

And just pure fun...

So stay tuned!

There's a first time for everything...

After realizing the world needs a few more southern women to speak their minds, I decided it was time to give in to my blog obsession. I hope this site will benefit my fellow southern ladies. Enjoy y'all!