I know I just posted a new blog, but I wanted to keep my "column" separate from my really personal updates.
Things are going pretty well. I'm still struggling with my eating habits. I miss bread!!! Of course, who doesn't cheat. I know I have. And I've limited my bread intake to once a week. Plus, regular sodas are down to once a week as well. I'm trying to drink more water and diet sodas. It's hard, but I'm making it. I'm also trying to eat more veggies, which is odd for me since I'm always getting something on the go before work. You guys would be surprised how many total carbs and calories fast food places have!! I got a book a while ago with all of that kind of info and I'm really using it now. :)
My sugar levels have been decent lately, but not perfect. I've had a few days when they've been on track, but only once when it's been at 200. At least most days it's close to the max after eating, even if I haven't eaten yet. That's progress at least! I'm proud of myself for doing this. And I'm hoping that with controlling my diet and taking the pills the doctor prescribed, that I'll be able to lose some weight and get healthy. That's something that I've been needing to do for a while now. My weight has gotten completely out of control. I haven't weighed myself since I went to the doctor, but my jeans are getting seriously baggy. I take that as a really good sign!
I spoke to my sister (half-sister from my dad's first marriage, but to me she's my sister no matter what) through email and she told me that my mom got diabetes just before she got pregnant with me. I'm going to double check on that with my Uncle Robert when I get a chance to talk to him. He caught me at the mailbox last week and I told him that I'm type II diabetic. Just knowing when and how mom got through being diabetic will help me, I'm sure. I remember watching her take shots twice a day and checking her sugar twice a day. I remember watching my Aunt Dot (my mom's best friend) do the same thing. I don't want to end up having more problems because of this disease and I do want to have children some day. I want to get it under control, along with my high blood pressure and my weight. My sister told me that blood pressure problems, spider veins on the legs, and heart problems run on my dad's side of the family. Ulcers, heart problems, asthma and diabetes are on mom's side. Plus, I'm still mildly anemic.
I want to get in better health so I can donate blood. I found out the first time I tried to donate that I have a rare blood type. I can't remember if it's AB neg or AB pos, but it's one of the two. I'll have to check with my sister and see what she has and what my dad had. I can't remember if the kid's supposed to have mom's blood type or dad's. That show's how much I payed attention in class, doesn't it?
I told my boss this week about my diabetes and what I'm going through. Hopefully, less stress will follow after Monday's over. We publish our Profile section - which comes once a year - on Tuesday. I know God has better things in store for me. I only hope that things will work out soon so I can find a job I'm more suited for. I want to write! And if I have to move to make that dream a reality, I'll do it! I just finished reading a really wonderful book on this kind of topic - The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. It has really helped me to think about my dreams and hope that I can work toward them. I can't give up my dreams because I'm at a stand still. I have to do something about them or they'll never come true! If you haven't read this book and you're looking for some way to get back on the path, I'd recommend this book! It's really simple and it does have some religious/spiritual parts to it. I'm definitely going to re-read it before it has to go back to the library next week and when I get a chance, I'll definitely buy it! (Plus, it's my favorite guy's favorite book - Christian Kane!)
I'm trying to think of more interesting things to tell you guys, but I'm out of things to say. I hope all of you are doing well! I want to congratulate Carrie on getting a job after months of searching! This really shows how God works in our lives and answers the prayers of His children! I'll be trying to catch up on other blogs this weekend at work where I can look at pictures without killing my dialup.
Take care and God Bless!
Heroes live on through us
Two years ago last month, I lost one of my real life heroes. My real life hero wasn't a medical doctor, a pastor, a singer or an actor. He had a monotone voice when he spoke in class, but the days when he dressed up as Julius Caesar or Shakespeare were days you knew you should stay awake.
I had no idea what I wanted to do with my college education, but with a great adviser, came a great mentor and a father figure who was always there to lend a hand any way he could. My days at LBW were the best because of the man who I've come to think of as my personal hero.
Mike "Doc" Daniel wasn't your typical adviser or history teacher. Doc was extraordinary - a wonderful professor to do work-study under and a mentor to every student could help. He might have gone to extremes to get the attention of his class and was too kind with extra credit movies for his Western Civ II classes.
As Doc's work-study, I learned that most geniuses have too much stuff for their offices. i learned that being shy was not a good quality if I wanted to be a lawyer, which prompted me to shift my degree to journalism. I know I learned more from Doc than from any of my other teachers because he was such an exceptional mentor. His dry humor, costumes, and goofy grin will always be missed by his students and those who came to know him so well.
There are no words to really say all that Doc was, so I'll just talk about two of my favorite "Doc moments."
I was part of Circle K when I was at LBW. There were only a few of us, but I was always at every meeting. On awards night, just before graduation, Doc asked me to be there and "dress nice." Of course, I had no idea what was going on. That night, I received a plaque for Outstanding Member of Circle K. I'd never really received recognition for anything - unless you count third grade when I got first place and $25 for a poster contest. What made the award even more special was the fact that Doc was the one who presented it to me. I'm glad that I have that memory and photos of that night along with graduation.
My two years at LBW were the best. I made it through the required courses and some amazing classes that I'll never forget. Doc's Ethics and Government classes were definitely among those. Even through the loss of my uncle and having my heart broken, I had the best times of my life at LBW.
My second favorite Doc moment was when I'd been told to interview someone for one of my journalism classes at Troy (State) University. Doc was my first choice. I couldn't tell you what the class was (probably interviewing) or who the professor was (probably Dr. Padgett or Mr. Spurlock), but I remember the conversation with Doc.
We sat down in his cluttered office with a tape recorder, pad and pencil. I had ten questions to ask - mostly centered on his schooling and degrees. I'll never forget my "bomb" question because I had to keep a straight face when I asked him. My last question was out there. I asked if he'd ever been propositioned by a student and if he'd ever gone beyond the student/teacher relationship with any of them.
I'll always cherish the memory of that interview - learning all the things I'd never asked Doc when I was his work-study. And I'll always fondly remember Doc for putting me on the path to being a writer/journalist.
I have so many more reasons for why Doc is my real life hero. Doc never failed to give of his time or even his money when it was really needed. He was one of those rare people who always considered others before himself. For that, and for always being a pleasure to work for, Doc is my hero.
I know so few of us recognize those who have touched our lives while they're here to taid us in our trials and tribulations. I know this is so true for me. We get so busy with our lives and work that we forget to send messages to those we care about and those who have touched our hearts. I regret not keeping in touch with Doc as I should have, but life just got in the way and then I ran out of tomorrows to chat with him.
Tell your real life heroes that you admire them and thank them for touching your life. You never know when that next tomorrow might never come.
I had no idea what I wanted to do with my college education, but with a great adviser, came a great mentor and a father figure who was always there to lend a hand any way he could. My days at LBW were the best because of the man who I've come to think of as my personal hero.
Mike "Doc" Daniel wasn't your typical adviser or history teacher. Doc was extraordinary - a wonderful professor to do work-study under and a mentor to every student could help. He might have gone to extremes to get the attention of his class and was too kind with extra credit movies for his Western Civ II classes.
As Doc's work-study, I learned that most geniuses have too much stuff for their offices. i learned that being shy was not a good quality if I wanted to be a lawyer, which prompted me to shift my degree to journalism. I know I learned more from Doc than from any of my other teachers because he was such an exceptional mentor. His dry humor, costumes, and goofy grin will always be missed by his students and those who came to know him so well.
There are no words to really say all that Doc was, so I'll just talk about two of my favorite "Doc moments."
I was part of Circle K when I was at LBW. There were only a few of us, but I was always at every meeting. On awards night, just before graduation, Doc asked me to be there and "dress nice." Of course, I had no idea what was going on. That night, I received a plaque for Outstanding Member of Circle K. I'd never really received recognition for anything - unless you count third grade when I got first place and $25 for a poster contest. What made the award even more special was the fact that Doc was the one who presented it to me. I'm glad that I have that memory and photos of that night along with graduation.
My two years at LBW were the best. I made it through the required courses and some amazing classes that I'll never forget. Doc's Ethics and Government classes were definitely among those. Even through the loss of my uncle and having my heart broken, I had the best times of my life at LBW.
My second favorite Doc moment was when I'd been told to interview someone for one of my journalism classes at Troy (State) University. Doc was my first choice. I couldn't tell you what the class was (probably interviewing) or who the professor was (probably Dr. Padgett or Mr. Spurlock), but I remember the conversation with Doc.
We sat down in his cluttered office with a tape recorder, pad and pencil. I had ten questions to ask - mostly centered on his schooling and degrees. I'll never forget my "bomb" question because I had to keep a straight face when I asked him. My last question was out there. I asked if he'd ever been propositioned by a student and if he'd ever gone beyond the student/teacher relationship with any of them.
I'll always cherish the memory of that interview - learning all the things I'd never asked Doc when I was his work-study. And I'll always fondly remember Doc for putting me on the path to being a writer/journalist.
I have so many more reasons for why Doc is my real life hero. Doc never failed to give of his time or even his money when it was really needed. He was one of those rare people who always considered others before himself. For that, and for always being a pleasure to work for, Doc is my hero.
I know so few of us recognize those who have touched our lives while they're here to taid us in our trials and tribulations. I know this is so true for me. We get so busy with our lives and work that we forget to send messages to those we care about and those who have touched our hearts. I regret not keeping in touch with Doc as I should have, but life just got in the way and then I ran out of tomorrows to chat with him.
Tell your real life heroes that you admire them and thank them for touching your life. You never know when that next tomorrow might never come.
An update on me
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
In my last post I didn't know anything specific because I hadn't been to the doctor yet.
So here's what's going on with me. I knew I had a kidney infection, which the doctor confirmed and thankfully through the antibiotics I'm all well on that point. My mother had diabetes and had to be on insulin shots, so I knew I was at risk to have diabetes as well. I've just been waiting for the shoe to drop on it - well Thursday the doctor had the nurse check my glucose levels - and it was bad. Not as bad as it could have been, but still enough to diagnose me with Type II diabetes. I know I can deal with this, but it's been very hard. With being sick while the kidney infection was knocked from my system, I didn't really eat much, but now I can't have bread or anything "sweet." Now, the sweets aren't too bad of a thing to say no to - I can have fruit. The bread on the other hand is VERY hard to give up. But it's only for a month until I have to go back and see how I'm doing. When she tested me my glucose level was around 300 - that's over twice what it should be after eating. Needless to say, I need to make some changes.
I'm on a pill, not a shot right now and I'm supposed to check my glucose level every other day. I checked it yesterday and it was down to 264, which is better. Let's hope it keeps dropping! The doctor gave me samples of the pill I am taking and a prescription for another pill for 3 months. I'm hoping that what she told me about the prescription will help me lose some weight - I'm seriously in need of losing over 100 lbs at this point.
I know I don't want to have to go on the shots of insulin and that I do want to lose some weight and be healthier. But the stress of my job (which has gotten moreso lately because of my not feeling 100%) is not helping at all. Here's hoping that things turn around on that front. The doctor thinks most of what is happening with my health is stress related. And there's more stress to come this month - but after it's over things should get better for a little bit.
So, I still need you guys to keep me in your thoughts and prayers as I go through this. I have people that I know who deal with diabetes every day, so I have friends and family to talk to about it. But I know how much easier it would be if my mom were here to help me through this. And going through this makes me miss her more than I have in a very long time. But I know with the prayers and my faith in God, I can make it through.
Love you all!
So here's what's going on with me. I knew I had a kidney infection, which the doctor confirmed and thankfully through the antibiotics I'm all well on that point. My mother had diabetes and had to be on insulin shots, so I knew I was at risk to have diabetes as well. I've just been waiting for the shoe to drop on it - well Thursday the doctor had the nurse check my glucose levels - and it was bad. Not as bad as it could have been, but still enough to diagnose me with Type II diabetes. I know I can deal with this, but it's been very hard. With being sick while the kidney infection was knocked from my system, I didn't really eat much, but now I can't have bread or anything "sweet." Now, the sweets aren't too bad of a thing to say no to - I can have fruit. The bread on the other hand is VERY hard to give up. But it's only for a month until I have to go back and see how I'm doing. When she tested me my glucose level was around 300 - that's over twice what it should be after eating. Needless to say, I need to make some changes.
I'm on a pill, not a shot right now and I'm supposed to check my glucose level every other day. I checked it yesterday and it was down to 264, which is better. Let's hope it keeps dropping! The doctor gave me samples of the pill I am taking and a prescription for another pill for 3 months. I'm hoping that what she told me about the prescription will help me lose some weight - I'm seriously in need of losing over 100 lbs at this point.
I know I don't want to have to go on the shots of insulin and that I do want to lose some weight and be healthier. But the stress of my job (which has gotten moreso lately because of my not feeling 100%) is not helping at all. Here's hoping that things turn around on that front. The doctor thinks most of what is happening with my health is stress related. And there's more stress to come this month - but after it's over things should get better for a little bit.
So, I still need you guys to keep me in your thoughts and prayers as I go through this. I have people that I know who deal with diabetes every day, so I have friends and family to talk to about it. But I know how much easier it would be if my mom were here to help me through this. And going through this makes me miss her more than I have in a very long time. But I know with the prayers and my faith in God, I can make it through.
Love you all!
Prayers needed
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Hi guys. Personal post this time. I'm having a few personal problems - health problems and work issues that I need to decide about very soon. I'm asking you guys to lift me up and pray for me. I know what the power of prayer can do. I know that God listens to His children when they are humble before Him. I know I'll be getting down on my knees this week and asking Him for guidance in these decisions I need to make.
I hope all of you are doing well. I will be posting more Top 3 blogs soon!
I hope all of you are doing well. I will be posting more Top 3 blogs soon!
Top 3 people I'd love to meet
Saturday, February 28, 2009
I've decided to do a little something different with my blog for the next couple of weeks. I'll be doing a Top 3 or 5 every week and making and making personal posts in between. I want to invite my followers to submit things they'd like to see as well. I have a list of about 10 as of now and will be using them until they run out.
My first list came to me when I was trying to think of five people I'd love to meet in real life. Unfortunately, I could only come up with four, so I'll include the last one in this blog as a bonus.
Top 3 people (alive) that I'd really like to meet:
1. Christian Kane
2. Joss Whedon
3. Sherrilyn Kenyon
I'm sure you're looking at these names and wondering who they are, so I'll do a little intro on them to help you out. Then I'll tell you why I want to meet this person.
Christian Kane
Christian has played many roles since he first began acting. His most recent role is that of Eliot Spencer on TNT's Leverage. But most of us remember his role as bad boy lawyer Lindsey McDonald on Angel - the spin-off of Buffy. He's also made appearances in Dawson's Creek, Las Vegas, and a short lived series called Close to Home. You've probably glimpsed him in movies like Secondhand Lions, Taxi, Friday Night Lights, Just Married and Life or Something Like It.
This soon-to-be 35-year-old is talented in several ways that have people following him on every venture he sets out on. Not only is Christian a soulful country boy actor, he's also a singer and songwriter. Though the band Kane is now under Christian's solo name, he and friend, Steve Carlson have written several Americana/Country songs. The song More Than I Deserve was actually in Christian's movie The Crooked E: The Unshredded Truth About Enron and Sweet Carolina Rain was the song that Christian sings as he walks down the hall to his hotel room.
The reasons I want to meet Christian are many, but mostly I want to meet him because he's never given up on his dreams. He left home to go to LA to pursue his acting and though he's still not as famous as some actors, he's stayed around, making a name for himself. Through all of his hardships in the business, Christian has always pushed through with the unending love and support from his mother.
With his talents, his laid back style, and his country boy attitude, I know that Christian is an excellent person to know and be around. Just the easy way he makes himself humble - thanking people and being polite - he's one of those guys I can honestly say "his momma raised him right!"
Joss Whedon
If you haven't been watching television for the past 10 years, you probably don't know this guy. For those of you who can't place him, think Buffy the Vampire Slayer! Writer, Director, Producer - Joss Whedon is obviously a jack of all trades kind of guy. So, unless you've been living under a rock, you know who this guy is. For you rock dwellers, I'll give you the bio. Joss is the creator and writer and often director/producer for such shows as Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, Firefly and most recently Dollhouse. He's written for the tv show Roseanne, where he got his start. Joss is famous for his quick wit and rewrites of scripts such as Speed.
Joss is one of the funniest, most gracious people that have the luck to become great and work with great people. There are so many reasons why I'd love to meet this man - he's smart, talented and the world's best boss to those he directs. For all the shows he's done, Joss has put his mark on them, showing us his funny side as well as his serious side. He's written things that have made us think about things. He's made supernatural beings become our best friends and people that we can related to - he made Buffy a girl we could all want to be like. He made Angel the dreamy, brooding guy that girls would love to go out with - despite his "problem" of being cursed with a soul. All of these are great reasons why I'd love to meet this man. He's a legend who has created pop icons for us to follow and grow attached to. That's why he's great.
Sherrilyn Kenyon
Sherri is one of my very favorite supernatural erotic authors. She's known for her Dark Hunter series, which includes the Dream Hunters and other interesting supernatural characters. The series is known for its twist on Greek mythology and Artemis being the "bitch goddess" who turns another god into a servant she can control - only she makes the mistake of betraying him. Acheron becomes more powerful than her - gaining his own powers as the Destroyer - the last living god of Atlantis. Her writing style and her ability to draw in her readers are things that make Sherri's books go to the bestseller's list.
Sherri's way of interacting with her fans and love of writing have made me want to write even more. To be able to meet someone who inspires you is one of the greatest things you can ever do.
All of these people inspire me in their own ways and I'd love to meet them and tell them how they've touched my life.
The fourth person I'd love to meet should be obvious since he wasn't on the list of the top 3. In high school I became a big Smashing Pumpkins fan. Billy Corgan became one of the heroes of my life through his music. I'd love to meet him because he's inspired me on so many levels. He's kept going even though the band broke up - and he's always kept on writing. That's the kind of people that inspire me.
I hope you guys have found this amusing at the least. It's way past bedtime and I've got a headache. Sweet dreams and happy thoughts for the future - maybe I'll actually meet these people in real life one day!
ETA: I knew I should've done this when I was more awake and when I was at work because the pictures really slowed down my connection and made me have several typing errors. I hope you guys enjoy these! Look for the next one tonight or tomorrow!
My first list came to me when I was trying to think of five people I'd love to meet in real life. Unfortunately, I could only come up with four, so I'll include the last one in this blog as a bonus.
Top 3 people (alive) that I'd really like to meet:
1. Christian Kane
2. Joss Whedon
3. Sherrilyn Kenyon
I'm sure you're looking at these names and wondering who they are, so I'll do a little intro on them to help you out. Then I'll tell you why I want to meet this person.
Christian KaneChristian has played many roles since he first began acting. His most recent role is that of Eliot Spencer on TNT's Leverage. But most of us remember his role as bad boy lawyer Lindsey McDonald on Angel - the spin-off of Buffy. He's also made appearances in Dawson's Creek, Las Vegas, and a short lived series called Close to Home. You've probably glimpsed him in movies like Secondhand Lions, Taxi, Friday Night Lights, Just Married and Life or Something Like It.
This soon-to-be 35-year-old is talented in several ways that have people following him on every venture he sets out on. Not only is Christian a soulful country boy actor, he's also a singer and songwriter. Though the band Kane is now under Christian's solo name, he and friend, Steve Carlson have written several Americana/Country songs. The song More Than I Deserve was actually in Christian's movie The Crooked E: The Unshredded Truth About Enron and Sweet Carolina Rain was the song that Christian sings as he walks down the hall to his hotel room.
The reasons I want to meet Christian are many, but mostly I want to meet him because he's never given up on his dreams. He left home to go to LA to pursue his acting and though he's still not as famous as some actors, he's stayed around, making a name for himself. Through all of his hardships in the business, Christian has always pushed through with the unending love and support from his mother.
With his talents, his laid back style, and his country boy attitude, I know that Christian is an excellent person to know and be around. Just the easy way he makes himself humble - thanking people and being polite - he's one of those guys I can honestly say "his momma raised him right!"
Joss WhedonIf you haven't been watching television for the past 10 years, you probably don't know this guy. For those of you who can't place him, think Buffy the Vampire Slayer! Writer, Director, Producer - Joss Whedon is obviously a jack of all trades kind of guy. So, unless you've been living under a rock, you know who this guy is. For you rock dwellers, I'll give you the bio. Joss is the creator and writer and often director/producer for such shows as Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, Firefly and most recently Dollhouse. He's written for the tv show Roseanne, where he got his start. Joss is famous for his quick wit and rewrites of scripts such as Speed.
Joss is one of the funniest, most gracious people that have the luck to become great and work with great people. There are so many reasons why I'd love to meet this man - he's smart, talented and the world's best boss to those he directs. For all the shows he's done, Joss has put his mark on them, showing us his funny side as well as his serious side. He's written things that have made us think about things. He's made supernatural beings become our best friends and people that we can related to - he made Buffy a girl we could all want to be like. He made Angel the dreamy, brooding guy that girls would love to go out with - despite his "problem" of being cursed with a soul. All of these are great reasons why I'd love to meet this man. He's a legend who has created pop icons for us to follow and grow attached to. That's why he's great.
Sherrilyn KenyonSherri is one of my very favorite supernatural erotic authors. She's known for her Dark Hunter series, which includes the Dream Hunters and other interesting supernatural characters. The series is known for its twist on Greek mythology and Artemis being the "bitch goddess" who turns another god into a servant she can control - only she makes the mistake of betraying him. Acheron becomes more powerful than her - gaining his own powers as the Destroyer - the last living god of Atlantis. Her writing style and her ability to draw in her readers are things that make Sherri's books go to the bestseller's list.
Sherri's way of interacting with her fans and love of writing have made me want to write even more. To be able to meet someone who inspires you is one of the greatest things you can ever do.
All of these people inspire me in their own ways and I'd love to meet them and tell them how they've touched my life.
The fourth person I'd love to meet should be obvious since he wasn't on the list of the top 3. In high school I became a big Smashing Pumpkins fan. Billy Corgan became one of the heroes of my life through his music. I'd love to meet him because he's inspired me on so many levels. He's kept going even though the band broke up - and he's always kept on writing. That's the kind of people that inspire me.
I hope you guys have found this amusing at the least. It's way past bedtime and I've got a headache. Sweet dreams and happy thoughts for the future - maybe I'll actually meet these people in real life one day!
ETA: I knew I should've done this when I was more awake and when I was at work because the pictures really slowed down my connection and made me have several typing errors. I hope you guys enjoy these! Look for the next one tonight or tomorrow!
Family and inspiration
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Tonight while I was driving home from work, I was thinking about all those profile sections that Troy, Brewton and Atmore have been doing in the past few weeks. I know ours for the Star-News is coming up and of course I was thinking about who would make the best stories. Naturally most profile stories are about people - feature stories on people who have impacted the communty.
So, I came up with the three people who have been inspiration in my life.
The number one inspiration on my list would be my mother, especially since she raised me on her own since I was six. My mother was always there for me, even when I wasn't the best daughter. She raised me in the church, taking me to Sunday school and Vacation Bible School throughout my young years. She taught me about God and Jesus and how to always put my faith first and trust in God. Through all her trials, my mother was strong. She went through losing my father, back surgeries, and a stroke that eventually led to her leaving this world.
My second inspiration would be my Uncle Clyde - my mom's brother. Those of you who have known me for a long time probably remember my Uncle Clyde. He lived with us all of my life and he was the one person that was constantly there for me after my mother passed away. He and I were close and we took care of each other - more me taking care of him since he only had an eighth grade education. He went to church every Sunday and was there for every service. He enjoyed singing in the choir, though he couldn't really read that well, he knew almost every song in the hymn book. Uncle Clyde was with me through my first year of college and in the fall of 1999, he fell on a fishing trip and broke his hip. He underwent a hip replacement and complications set in. He went to USA hospital in Mobile to have his stomach removed and never came home.
My last inspiration would be my Uncle Robert. I know I don't talk about him much and there have been times when I deeply dislike him, but he is a great man. He has always put his faith in God first and led his family from his study of the Bible. My Uncle Robert and Aunt Gloria moved from Pensacola in 1995 to Andalusia so they could become my guardians. I know it was a hard transition for my Aunt Gloria, who loved the city. But it was never a hardship for Uncle Robert. He loved the country - and the country life. He loved the old home place - "the country house" that belonged to my grandparents. He still lives there to this day - even though he's well over eighty. He and Aunt Gloria made Andalusia their home and Mobley Creek their home church. Uncle Robert willingly took over Sunday school duties and leading the choir. If anyone in my life knows God's unfailing wisdom and will, it is my Uncle Robert. Uncle Robert knows the Bible better than anyone else I know. He has notebooks full of notes on every book in the Bible that he uses for his Sunday school classes. He never fails to go to church every time the doors are open. Through his trials and the loss of my Aunt Gloria, he has always been strong. He has had a mild heartattack and does not hear so well anymore, but still he presses toward the mark - to the high calling of God.
These inspirational people have touched my life and have made me the person I am. They have taught me to always be strong and even through my faith wavers at times, to always keep God in my life to guide me.
So, I came up with the three people who have been inspiration in my life.
The number one inspiration on my list would be my mother, especially since she raised me on her own since I was six. My mother was always there for me, even when I wasn't the best daughter. She raised me in the church, taking me to Sunday school and Vacation Bible School throughout my young years. She taught me about God and Jesus and how to always put my faith first and trust in God. Through all her trials, my mother was strong. She went through losing my father, back surgeries, and a stroke that eventually led to her leaving this world.
My second inspiration would be my Uncle Clyde - my mom's brother. Those of you who have known me for a long time probably remember my Uncle Clyde. He lived with us all of my life and he was the one person that was constantly there for me after my mother passed away. He and I were close and we took care of each other - more me taking care of him since he only had an eighth grade education. He went to church every Sunday and was there for every service. He enjoyed singing in the choir, though he couldn't really read that well, he knew almost every song in the hymn book. Uncle Clyde was with me through my first year of college and in the fall of 1999, he fell on a fishing trip and broke his hip. He underwent a hip replacement and complications set in. He went to USA hospital in Mobile to have his stomach removed and never came home.
My last inspiration would be my Uncle Robert. I know I don't talk about him much and there have been times when I deeply dislike him, but he is a great man. He has always put his faith in God first and led his family from his study of the Bible. My Uncle Robert and Aunt Gloria moved from Pensacola in 1995 to Andalusia so they could become my guardians. I know it was a hard transition for my Aunt Gloria, who loved the city. But it was never a hardship for Uncle Robert. He loved the country - and the country life. He loved the old home place - "the country house" that belonged to my grandparents. He still lives there to this day - even though he's well over eighty. He and Aunt Gloria made Andalusia their home and Mobley Creek their home church. Uncle Robert willingly took over Sunday school duties and leading the choir. If anyone in my life knows God's unfailing wisdom and will, it is my Uncle Robert. Uncle Robert knows the Bible better than anyone else I know. He has notebooks full of notes on every book in the Bible that he uses for his Sunday school classes. He never fails to go to church every time the doors are open. Through his trials and the loss of my Aunt Gloria, he has always been strong. He has had a mild heartattack and does not hear so well anymore, but still he presses toward the mark - to the high calling of God.
These inspirational people have touched my life and have made me the person I am. They have taught me to always be strong and even through my faith wavers at times, to always keep God in my life to guide me.
It's my life...and what's going on...
Saturday, January 31, 2009
I'm a crappy updater, but I figured it's time. Right now I'm sick - allergies and weather changing is getting me all messed up. Other than that things seem to be going okay. I'm hoping to get a short story published soon, but I won't know anything until much later next month if it goes in or not. It won't be much for payment, but it'll be a start in the right direction.
Jonathan's been going through a lot lately. He called me frantic the other night and I didn't get his call until two hours later. He's got an ulcer from all the stress he's been under. So keep him in your prayers (and me! that I get over this cold quickly). He's stressed big time right now because of a lot of stuff that's going on with the DoD and the Navy. I can't really say what, but it still looks like he'll be going away to basic training at some point.
Work is the same. I'm sick of it, but I still have to make a living. I've learned some HTML and CSS, so I know pretty well how to make a webpage. It's interesting what makes a webpage work, but I wouldn't want to sit around doing it all day. Here's hoping I get a little bitty raise for my trouble.
I'm so glad I finally got my car fixed. I don't know if I mentioned that in previous posts, but I'd had problems with the heater core for over a month. It's a blessing to have it fixed with the cold weather that's coming our way. Now I can turn on my heater and be warm while I'm driving home.
I've been talking to a very sweet guy I met online - just online chatting and emails so far. I'm not hoping for much - just some new friends would be great. I'm so busy and not very social these days, that it's impossible to get to know someone unless they email/chat/call me regularly. Yes, I know I'm horrible! I can't help it. I'm trying to keep up with everyone better one step at a time.
I just found out recently - because I was putting up the obits on Star News website - that my best friend from high school's dad passed away. Brandi and her family have been distanced for a while, so I have no idea if she came home or not. I really do hope so. I know her mom and her sisters probably need her right now.
I've got things to do besides sit here and blog, so I'd best get on with it. I hope all of you are doing well.
~ Esther
Jonathan's been going through a lot lately. He called me frantic the other night and I didn't get his call until two hours later. He's got an ulcer from all the stress he's been under. So keep him in your prayers (and me! that I get over this cold quickly). He's stressed big time right now because of a lot of stuff that's going on with the DoD and the Navy. I can't really say what, but it still looks like he'll be going away to basic training at some point.
Work is the same. I'm sick of it, but I still have to make a living. I've learned some HTML and CSS, so I know pretty well how to make a webpage. It's interesting what makes a webpage work, but I wouldn't want to sit around doing it all day. Here's hoping I get a little bitty raise for my trouble.
I'm so glad I finally got my car fixed. I don't know if I mentioned that in previous posts, but I'd had problems with the heater core for over a month. It's a blessing to have it fixed with the cold weather that's coming our way. Now I can turn on my heater and be warm while I'm driving home.
I've been talking to a very sweet guy I met online - just online chatting and emails so far. I'm not hoping for much - just some new friends would be great. I'm so busy and not very social these days, that it's impossible to get to know someone unless they email/chat/call me regularly. Yes, I know I'm horrible! I can't help it. I'm trying to keep up with everyone better one step at a time.
I just found out recently - because I was putting up the obits on Star News website - that my best friend from high school's dad passed away. Brandi and her family have been distanced for a while, so I have no idea if she came home or not. I really do hope so. I know her mom and her sisters probably need her right now.
I've got things to do besides sit here and blog, so I'd best get on with it. I hope all of you are doing well.
~ Esther
Labels:
personal
A historical day: Obama sworn into office
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Today, January 20, 2009 was one of the most historical days America has ever known as a nation. We have successfully put the first African-American president into the highest office of this nation. He is now our commander in chief, the head of our armed forces and the leader of our nation.
Though I still have my concerns about President Obama, I feel more secure in the fact that he is looking out for our best interests. He wants this country to be great again - just like every American wants. And that is enough for me to stand up and get behind him as president.
We know that change needs to occur. And we should know that change does not occur over night. Sometimes it takes months and even years and decades before change is sufficient enough to notice. But I believe if we all stand up and let our opinions be known and show this president that we want our nation to be one of the best in the world - he will help us to achieve that collective goal.
Over the past 100 years we have seen many changes for the better. We have seen slavery be outlawed. We have seen African-Americans be given the rights to vote. We have seen women take on more roles than just being homemakers - and the big right to vote and make the choice about their bodies through abortion rights. I agree with all of these changes. I am glad they happened. I'm glad we are no longer segregated by the color of our skin and that we can come together as many Americans did on this day and watch as our 44th president is sworn into office.
This is a day that we will remember for the rest of our lives - because we were the first to do it. And when change has come, when things get better in the next four years, maybe we will finally be ready for a female president.
I am proud of our country. I'm proud that so many people came together to celebrate this day - a day of change.
To quote President Obama from his inauguration speech: "For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus — and non-believers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth; and because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace."
We must do whatever we can to bring peace and pride back to our country. And we must do whatever we have to do to make this country stable again. Our economy needs a turn around and we have to step up - we have to have more jobs created and more resources to make this economy grow again.
Here's hoping the next four years are as good as we all hope they are.
Though I still have my concerns about President Obama, I feel more secure in the fact that he is looking out for our best interests. He wants this country to be great again - just like every American wants. And that is enough for me to stand up and get behind him as president.
We know that change needs to occur. And we should know that change does not occur over night. Sometimes it takes months and even years and decades before change is sufficient enough to notice. But I believe if we all stand up and let our opinions be known and show this president that we want our nation to be one of the best in the world - he will help us to achieve that collective goal.
Over the past 100 years we have seen many changes for the better. We have seen slavery be outlawed. We have seen African-Americans be given the rights to vote. We have seen women take on more roles than just being homemakers - and the big right to vote and make the choice about their bodies through abortion rights. I agree with all of these changes. I am glad they happened. I'm glad we are no longer segregated by the color of our skin and that we can come together as many Americans did on this day and watch as our 44th president is sworn into office.
This is a day that we will remember for the rest of our lives - because we were the first to do it. And when change has come, when things get better in the next four years, maybe we will finally be ready for a female president.
I am proud of our country. I'm proud that so many people came together to celebrate this day - a day of change.
To quote President Obama from his inauguration speech: "For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus — and non-believers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth; and because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace."
We must do whatever we can to bring peace and pride back to our country. And we must do whatever we have to do to make this country stable again. Our economy needs a turn around and we have to step up - we have to have more jobs created and more resources to make this economy grow again.
Here's hoping the next four years are as good as we all hope they are.
Labels:
history,
inauguration,
president
Life isn't like what you read in books...
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Life has been...well, busy lately. I've still been working a whole lot. Yes, this job keeps me busy and so do all of my online friends. I roleplay a good bit and that keeps me entertained. I'm writing a book - well, still working on finishing a book is more like it. I'm just about done - just need to get the plot finished. And I'm working on a story for an eBook an online friend is collecting stories for - well stories to consider. I hope mine makes it, but I don't have high hopes right now. There are people out there far more talented than I am.
My writing has gotten much better in the past few years. I think roleplaying helps a good deal - getting to write a story with someone else and seeing yourself in that character doing every action they do is really fulfilling. If I can just get a beta for my short story and a good beta that I trust for my book, I think I'll be on the road to being a real author.
I'm proud that I wrote 50k in 30 days, but I know I'll be even prouder when I can have it finished to start sending to publishers. I really want to have something I'm proud of in book form - even if very few people will actually read it. I've always been a dreamer. I've always had things in my head - pictures of events and people and I know that's why I've always been writing. Journalism was just another way to write, but I want to be creative when I write. Sure, being a reporter can help with that, but you've got to make it interesting and hook in your readers - and trust me, there are NOT any journalists here at the paper now that can do that - well save maybe one (our copy editor). Human interest. Features. Telling something isn't how to hook someone - you have to SHOW them what happened so they can picture it. Yes, that's the way to go.
Okay. I'll stop being a writer now and let you guys know I'm still alive even if I'm getting a little bit sick right now. I know it's because I've been driving around in my car without heat for over a month and because I go from a heated room to a colder room every night. Plus, allergies aren't fun right now with all the weather changes. Here's hoping the weather will make up it's mind for the next few months. But hey, who knows. We could have snow in south Alabama! lol
I hope all of you are doing well. My resolution for this year is to keep in touch with more people by reading their blogs or whatnot. So I'm going to strive to get on MySpace more and try to check Blogspot better. I really have enjoyed catching up with everyone that blogs. I find it's really nice to be able to write about your day and let people read about the things you're doing. It's a great way to get encouragement and communicate.
My writing has gotten much better in the past few years. I think roleplaying helps a good deal - getting to write a story with someone else and seeing yourself in that character doing every action they do is really fulfilling. If I can just get a beta for my short story and a good beta that I trust for my book, I think I'll be on the road to being a real author.
I'm proud that I wrote 50k in 30 days, but I know I'll be even prouder when I can have it finished to start sending to publishers. I really want to have something I'm proud of in book form - even if very few people will actually read it. I've always been a dreamer. I've always had things in my head - pictures of events and people and I know that's why I've always been writing. Journalism was just another way to write, but I want to be creative when I write. Sure, being a reporter can help with that, but you've got to make it interesting and hook in your readers - and trust me, there are NOT any journalists here at the paper now that can do that - well save maybe one (our copy editor). Human interest. Features. Telling something isn't how to hook someone - you have to SHOW them what happened so they can picture it. Yes, that's the way to go.
Okay. I'll stop being a writer now and let you guys know I'm still alive even if I'm getting a little bit sick right now. I know it's because I've been driving around in my car without heat for over a month and because I go from a heated room to a colder room every night. Plus, allergies aren't fun right now with all the weather changes. Here's hoping the weather will make up it's mind for the next few months. But hey, who knows. We could have snow in south Alabama! lol
I hope all of you are doing well. My resolution for this year is to keep in touch with more people by reading their blogs or whatnot. So I'm going to strive to get on MySpace more and try to check Blogspot better. I really have enjoyed catching up with everyone that blogs. I find it's really nice to be able to write about your day and let people read about the things you're doing. It's a great way to get encouragement and communicate.
Labels:
books,
journalism,
personal,
resolution,
thoughts,
work,
writing
Esther is very bored...lol
Monday, January 12, 2009
Here I am bored at work again and I know there's about 10 things I'd rather be doing or should be doing. I should be working on my book or the short story I started to submit to a friend for an ebook. Of course, those things are on my personal computer at home and I'm at work so I can't do anything with them right now.
I know I should probably update my journals on LiveJournal and InsaneJournal, but I'm not in the mood. Besides, there's not much new with me anyway, so I figure I'll save people the trouble of reading "blah, blah, blah" all over again.
Don't get me wrong, I love that I have a job, but sometimes it's not all it's cracked up to be. Especially the pay and all the things I usually have to do in my day before I get to go home around midnight or 1 a.m. I'm grateful that I can get out of bed and come to work and that I do have some pretty amazing people to work with. But sometimes I just have those days where I look at my life and think "why am I still here?" or "why am I still doing this?" Come Saturday the 16th, I will have my 3rd anniversary with the newspaper. Yep. 3 whole years I've been here. Who knows, I may be here another two years or I may find my niche in the writing world in two months. No one knows. I go wherever life takes me. I let God guide me and hope for the best.
As inauguration day draws nearer, I still wonder if this country is ready for the changes Obama is proposing. I wonder if they are for the best - if these changes will take us deeper into depression or if we will come out of it quicker in the long run. Will our health care really be reformed? Will we have free clinics and free insurance for those who don't have it? Will the government give us more money back when we file our taxes? Will other nations look at us and be proud or are we giving them a reason to attack us by our choice in president? These are the questions still floating in my mind as the day draws nearer and we will put our 44th president into office. I can only hope and pray and put my faith in God that our country will go forward instead of back.
Now, I've found something to occupy my time until something else comes in. I hope all of you are doing well. I spoke with Karen last night for a few minutes and it was good to catch up with old friends. I'm doing my best to keep in touch with everyone, but with my work schedule it's become very hard to socialize at all. Take care all!
I know I should probably update my journals on LiveJournal and InsaneJournal, but I'm not in the mood. Besides, there's not much new with me anyway, so I figure I'll save people the trouble of reading "blah, blah, blah" all over again.
Don't get me wrong, I love that I have a job, but sometimes it's not all it's cracked up to be. Especially the pay and all the things I usually have to do in my day before I get to go home around midnight or 1 a.m. I'm grateful that I can get out of bed and come to work and that I do have some pretty amazing people to work with. But sometimes I just have those days where I look at my life and think "why am I still here?" or "why am I still doing this?" Come Saturday the 16th, I will have my 3rd anniversary with the newspaper. Yep. 3 whole years I've been here. Who knows, I may be here another two years or I may find my niche in the writing world in two months. No one knows. I go wherever life takes me. I let God guide me and hope for the best.
As inauguration day draws nearer, I still wonder if this country is ready for the changes Obama is proposing. I wonder if they are for the best - if these changes will take us deeper into depression or if we will come out of it quicker in the long run. Will our health care really be reformed? Will we have free clinics and free insurance for those who don't have it? Will the government give us more money back when we file our taxes? Will other nations look at us and be proud or are we giving them a reason to attack us by our choice in president? These are the questions still floating in my mind as the day draws nearer and we will put our 44th president into office. I can only hope and pray and put my faith in God that our country will go forward instead of back.
Now, I've found something to occupy my time until something else comes in. I hope all of you are doing well. I spoke with Karen last night for a few minutes and it was good to catch up with old friends. I'm doing my best to keep in touch with everyone, but with my work schedule it's become very hard to socialize at all. Take care all!
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