Sunday, July 10, 2011

Sweet Summertime

This time last month, I was staying at a Residence Inn in Maine. I had flown into Boston, inhaled the fresh air from the city I love and was about 70 minutes north. I had seen Bush's compound in Kennebunkport, watched the Bruins fall to the Canucks (sweet revenge came back) and downed some clam chowder and an entire lobster at the Weathervane. It was just like what you'd see in Country Living - small cottages by the sea, retired people hanging out, families by the pool, the smell of the warm ocean breeze and pleasant temperatures that made being outside manageable.
The following six days would be spent in Boston. My prior post was dedicated to that trip, so I won't go back and elaborate on the beauty of it. I am however craving a bowl of clam chowder from Legal Seafood in Seaport. Best chowder you'll ever put in your mouth.
I genuinely miss Boston and everything with it, and I find it hard to believe that this time next year (God-willing), I'll be up there. Everything just needs to fall into place, and shazam!

On a different note, I watched The Social Network for the first time ever (I know...being a Facebook addict, you might find this hard to believe), and I loved it. I grew a stronger appreciation for Facebook, even though Mark Zuckerberg spoke way above my level of understanding at times.
And while I'm talking about smart people, I have recently envied those with an outstanding intelligence compared to others. I wish I could use big words and flattery (without cheesing it up) and be able to really swoon people with my knowledge of every subject out there.  I wish I could go out and score straight As on everything just from studying the night before (or heck, morning of), talk politics without sounding like a ditz (no really...I can't deal with politics) and be able to hold firm the ground of the point I'm trying to make (ahem, law stuff).
I'm happy the way I am, even if I'm not the most intelligent person on the planet. I like the fact that I can have loads of fun and enjoy Ruston, despite the fact that 100 days out of the year, I complain about how boring and dull it is.
So anywho, this concludes tonight's blog about smart people. Maybe one day I'll study up on really big words, gain some intelligence on broader subjects, get into law and politics and become a better well-rounded person (and a nerd).

Monday, July 4, 2011

Boston and Everything With It

A little over two weeks ago, I came back to Louisiana after visiting home. While yes, I am from the south, Boston is definitely home. The people were friendly as ever, the Bruins won the Stanley Cup (it was beyond amazing) and I found some areas I would love to consider moving to.
Riding the subway at rush hour was the cherry on top of me wanting to move there. You're crammed into this small train with hundreds of others after a long day at the office, and you have your own set path to get home. You could just look at some people and tell how their day went. The journalist in me wanted to sit down and ask them how they ended up here (I'm pretty sure some people had a dream like mine and left everything to follow their true passion).
If you know me, you've heard me talk at least once about Boston, its sports teams or the desire to live up north. I know several factors could prohibit me from going: falling in love with someone who wants to live elsewhere from Boston, sudden illness in the family or something happening to me. My desire now is that it's not my personal wish to be up there, but rather it's my purpose.
Below are some pictures from my amazing time in New England :)



























Sunday, April 10, 2011

Two Months

Two months from today, I'll be in Boston. Until then, I have many changes to make.
When I move to Beantown, it'll be treated like a fresh start. I think that's why I'm such an avid fan of the song "Boston," mainly because I don't really know anyone up there, and I feel compelled to move there immediately.
Tomorrow will be the first of many changes, as I'm getting back on Alli. I'm hoping it'll have the same effects on me as it did senior year (I lost 25 pounds in one month). I kissed bad eating goodbye today after devouring Cajun Chicken Pasta from Chili's, a brownie dessert and a milkshake from McDonald's this afternoon (it was accompanied with fries).
So as I start my new journey tomorrow, I hope I'll learn much about myself the next few months. I want to lose 40 pounds before I go to Boston. I want my pre-hypothyroidism body.
I want to write about my accomplishments and post before and after pictures, satisfied with how I did this.

Sunday, March 20, 2011

A Father's Love

This morning in church, I was taken back by this cute little redhead girl sitting in front of me. She was with her family -- a young, hip mom, preppy dad and super adorable brother (he was definitely a Ralph Lauren baby).
The entire service, I watched her as she sucked her thumb and glanced around. She was the quietest little girl I've ever seen, especially having not been older than three (we've all seen those toddlers in church that talk or whisper the entire time...she didn't do squat!).
During the sermon, her dad gently picked her up and placed her on his lap. She curled up in his arms, thumb in mouth. Her dad kept holding her tight and gently played with her hair. My heart melted like cookie dough on a warm baking sheet.
I was reminded of how we are with God. We can sit in his lap and accept his embrace anytime. We can chill and just stay there, doing absolutely nothing. I loved the visual image I got.
In general, I love watching young families at church - the mom who rushes in, making sure the family looks all nice and presentable, the dad carrying the baby bag with little Ella on his hip and Timmy toddling behind the family, kicking rocks as they walk in. I can only imagine what all they go through just trying to get out of the house, but seeing young families in church make my day.
It shows that they're following through their tradition. They're raising their kids properly. How I long for the day when I get to walk in church with my husband and kids. I love seeing godly husbands take their wives to church and being the spiritual leaders in the household. It's refreshing to know that there are still men like that out there.
I saw Pam Tebow Thursday night, and she gave my friends and me some words of advice I genuinely hold to heart.
"Ladies, God has the perfect man out there for you. All you can do is wait for Him to bring him to you. Don't settle for anything less. If God is big enough to create the whole world and you, He'll bring the right man along."
That hit me like a brick wall. I think girls these days believe they have to change themselves to cater to a guy. Here's the thing: you are fine as you are. Don't lose the extra 20 pounds for him - do it for yourself. Don't cake on extra makeup in hopes that he'll notice. Do it to boost your self esteem. Don't give in to what a certain guy wants. If he really wants you, he'll look beyond your flaws and like you for who you are.
And here's a key for guys: Sure, looks are big when scoping out the ladies, but go for the heart. For all you know, she might not be able to help that she has some extra weight (ever heard of thyroid disease???  I'm speaking from experience here). Never refer to a girl as "fat" in front of other women. And the final note: you don't always have to have a girl by your side. Personally, it's a turnoff when I see guys who date girl after girl or always have to be in a relationship. Be independent. Learn things about yourself while single (this definitely applies for the ladies, too).
I know a lot about being single, and trust me...I've learned much. It's nice having that person to chat to at the end of the day and knowing that you're always cared for...and it's nice having free food (for the girls, at least), but if you know it's not going to last, why waste your time?

So that's my spiel on it all.

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Home

I came home from quarter break on Thursday and have had a surplus of time to clear my mind. I've enjoyed the little things in life - sunsets on the river, breezes, drives around town, local sushi, smiles and Target (yes, I threw this in the list).
I've gotten more sleep than imaginable, and I feel like a new woman. My mind has had plenty of time to clear as I prepare to tackle yet another quarter. It's hard to believe that I graduate in less than 15 months. College has been the best thing to happen in my life. I've learned from mistakes, made new friends and got to know people I never thought I would.

I have to go run to a doctor's appointment, but I figured I'd spend some time blogging :)

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Finding Comfort in the Storm

While laying out the sports page for the school paper this morning, I got an urgent phone call from my mom. She usually calls and asks if I'm busy then spills. I was in the middle of doing something really important, and when I asked if it was urgent, she begged me to stay on the line.
My heart stopped.
I million things raced through my mind.
Then she spilled.
The next words that came out of her mouth reminded me of the horror in June. We had gotten in from a boat show in Gulfport, and it was just past midnight. I was about to climb into bed and turn off the light before she broke the news.
My grandpa had been rushed to the hospital due to a swollen stomach. The doctors found him at stage 3 stomach cancer, and he died 10 weeks later. This summer was the worst of my life and so hard, yet I learned so much.
As my mom started to tell me the urgent news, I took a deep breath.
My grandma, who has lived in San Antonio for years, fell yesterday morning. She was taken to the hospital (against her will), and the doctors ran a bunch of tests.
"Sarah, it's not looking good," my mom said, startled. "Just keep her in your prayers. I don't know -- my heart just breaks. First it was Paw Paw and now this."
Hearing her choke over the phone made me force myself to hold back tears. I went off in the corner, took a breath then went back in.
I hate acting like everything is okay, but what I hate even more is people knowing I'm upset about something -- I tend to lose it and break down in tears. I immediately went to the bathroom and just sobbed for a few minutes, thinking how much this sounded like June.
My grandma and I are pretty close. Out of all the grandchildren, I look just like her (which isn't a surprise -- my dad looks just like her as well, and I'm a spitting image of him).
Her husband passed when my dad was 16. He died of a massive heart attack while my dad was at school, and the last my dad saw of him was on the hospital table, the doctors trying to revive him. All attempts failed, and he left behind seven children -- the youngest an infant.
I have so much respect for my grandma. She's held strong, raised her children in a loving, Christian home and cares so much for her grandkids. She's the super cool grandma who's driven me around San Antonio and loves to talk to me about life.
We lovingly call her "Meemaw," and I shudder at the thought of losing her. I guess that's why I'm up at 2:18 a.m. writing this. I couldn't sleep, and insomnia has returned.
I had plans next week to see her. She turns 80 later this month, and our entire family is going out to visit her. My grandma has brought such joy and life to our family -- and we're extremely close.
I don't think I'd be so shook up about the news had I not just lost my grandpa. I think about him daily -- his blue eyes, smile, the way he would tell me he had green beans for me and sports talks.
I have constantly prayed all day for the health of my beloved grandma. I don't know if I can handle losing another loved one, especially in the span of a year.
I know God won't give you anything greater than your control, and He is always with me. I've been a terrible Christ-follower lately, and I'm not the perfect Christian (news flash: no one is), but I know that I can do better in my daily walk to fulfill His glory.
Please keep my family in your prayers. This isn't an easy time for any of us.
I have so much respect for my grandma and hope to grow old with the strength and wisdom she does. I know she loves her family and sees to it that we have all of our needs met.
I will blog updates as I hear more, but for now this is all I know.

Saturday, January 8, 2011

2011

So the new year is finally here, and I am so excited about what 2011 will bring. Last year was the hardest year of my life, and I was so ready to greet midnight Dec. 31.
I've made resolutions since 3rd grade, but this year, they're genuine. They're obtainable. So here goes:
-Love daily
-Eat plenty of fruits/veggies
-Save money
-Cook more
-Improve posture
-Become culturized
-Stay organized
-Rest plenty

I know they're the most random resolutions, but I put a lot of thought in them. The local paper back home suggested improving posture and saving money. It suggested going a month without buying anything (besides groceries), and I was genuinely inspired. I could really go without buying clothes or things I just don't need. I always put that into consideration when buying now, and it has made a world of difference.

Anyways, I'm headed out with my roommate and her friends, but I hope everyone has a stellar 2011! Go Pats!

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Thanksgiving...A Month Late

I finally have time to get on here! We're leaving tomorrow for Christmas (I have four), and I'll be out of touch for awhile. Here's what's been going on...
We had a new addition to the family in June - Tanner Augustus. He's 6 months old, and he's sooooo adorable! My grandma got a new dog to keep her company. He's beautiful. and his name is Sam. He reminds us of the dog from The Proposal (but he's gray). I also discovered a new hair product that keeps my hair PIN straight. Bigtime. It's called straight sexy hair, and it was only $7 at Marshall's. Woop woop, sales!
This quarter started with Tech Talk, athletics and life picking up. I'm still looking for jobs and apartments in Boston like crazy. I know God will provide, but it's hard having that security that a job and apartment will be there - and that I can afford it.

So more recent.
I got home last Thursday night around 11. My dad and I met in Vicksburg (he had to meet with clients all day), so we ate at Rusty's. It was SOOOO good!
On Friday, I got an iPhone 3GS. Yes, folks...Sarah is in touch with the world. It's been the best thing I've ever done. And it has a pink OtterBox. Oh yes.

Slater, one of my best friends from high school, moved back home from Dallas. We've been hanging out A LOT, and apparently we're awkward and loud in public. Poor people around us. We try out the massage chairs in Bed, Bath and Beyond and pick out bedding and china like we're getting married or something. That's totally not going to happen, but it's fun to hear people ask if we have kids, are dating, are married or are engaged. The stories we come up with are great.

I'm finishing some packing and such for tomorrow, but I attached pics with narration! Merry Christmas, y'all!


My annual pic by the Christmas tree!
My grandma's new dog, Sam! He's precious!


The Nobles had a Christmas gingerbread party.
Here's Katherine and me reppin' class of '08!
Slater in BBB. This is probably
why people give us strange looks


This is my absolute dream bed!







Monday, October 25, 2010

Updates

I finally have a little bit of time to update this thing! I have an 8:00 Spanish class, so I need to leave in five minutes. Yikes!
Okay so I totally wish I had the schedule I did last year. I thought life was so hard as a reporter. I loved the interviews, but it interfered with my social life. This year? I don't know what a social life is. I kind of like that - keeps me on the books, but I miss my friends. I LOVE what I do- attending sporting events, covering stories, getting to know my reporters and writing more about sports- which is my love.
This is a brief look at my week (every week...hardly a change, unless the other sports ed does the layout)
Monday- class, journalism lab for a few hours, Sonic, babysitting, possibly back to the lab, Zumba, bed
Tuesday- lab, class, Sonic, babysitting, staff meeting, Zumba or remain in the lab till late, bed
Wednesday- class, lab for final edits, babysit, Zumba, bed
Thursday- (one day to sleep in), class, Sonic, babysit till about 6, Zumba or a volleyball game, bed
Friday-class then my one and only free day....oh wait, I spend it laying out the next week's page and doing a ton of homework.
Weekends? Football games and homework,
Note: I cram in some time to get homework and studies done throughout the week.
So that's basically my life for now. Nov. 18, I'll get a two week break. Hallelujah.

Thursday, October 14, 2010

A New Change

October has been one of the most stressful months in my life. Tech has take off in the athletic department, and time has not been on my side. I feel like a terrible person for neglecting friends, putting off homework and not spending time with Christ. After all, He is the one who gives me a new day and constantly shows His love for me.
I'm heading home next weekend, and I honestly cannot wait. I'm not a fan of the shampoo and conditioner I have here, so that's one thing I can't wait to change out (lame, I know). My parents came up Sept. 25-26, and I can't wait to watch football with my dad and drive around my hometown. I can't wait to do laundry, eat out with my parents and stay connected with them. I've learned so much about their sacrifices recently, and I'm eternally grateful to have such amazing, loving parents.
I've decided to go through another music change. I get caught on secular music so much, and it seems that I never have time to listen to Christian music that lifts me up and draws me closer to my Creator. So anyways, I'm off to bed. I needed to update my blog and get some stuff off my chest!