Coming Home

Kaden is coming home friends! The last time I saw him I stood there in the Meridian, MS airport in a daze. I left the airport, turned my shoulder one last time to see Kaden and his friends boarding the plane bound for Afghanistan. I drove 3 hours home, stopping first in Tuscaloosa to get a Wendy's chocolate frosty to somewhat help me from not crying. As I drove, Kaden texted me one last time saying what a trooper I was back in the airport. Driving home, I had no clue what this deployment would bring me, him, or us but I had faith in myself that I could stick it out through the sleepless nights and trying times. I kept telling myself, "You can DO this, Catherine," since my brother and many good friends have been deployed 3-5 times.

The following months consisted of phone calls from the USO (where I could actually hear Kaden clearly), Skype dates, and writing him a letter every single day. Other days brought me frustration where I didn't hear from Kaden for nearly a week because his internet went out and he was too lazy to walk to the USO to tell me he was ok. (Sorry honey :)

The Post Office started to see me every other week, wondering what in the world I was sending him next. Such things included:

Care packages wrapped in Alabama Crimson Tide duct tape, neon duct tape care packages, a message in a bottle that included 30 things I loved about him- one for each day of the month. The best package was by far the Blown Up Beach Ball I sent him as I asked everyone who came in contact with it to sign it. 4 or 5 postal workers signed it along the way and when it arrived in Afghanistan 6 DAYS later (inflated and all), someone came up to Kaden and said, "Uhh, man, you have something waiting for you in the mail room, your girlfriend just outdid herself."

It took 14 days for the first batch of letters to arrive in Afghanistan, and when they finally arrived he received 14 in one day. He said I broke the record for the most letters in one day! Bam!

I tried my hardest to be a supportive and loving girlfriend because Kaden deserved to hear a happy and upbeat voice on the other end of the line. Sometimes I would be so frustrated with the internet connection (because I couldn't hear a single word he was saying) that I would take it out on him. I give Kaden props for putting up with all of my sassy-ness and know-it-all moments. As I reflect back today, I can finally say "WE MADE IT." We made it through laughs, tears, long conversations, and the adversity of a deployment. While it's definitely not an easy thing, it is doable.

Sorry for the ranting and raving readers, I'm nearly done :)

If I had one thing to say to anyone who asked about my experience and what it taught me, I would tell you

ENJOY THE TIME WITH THE PEOPLE YOU LOVE

We all know life can get in a routine that may be monotonous at times, but if you have someone special or even your family, Enjoy them at all times. I just spent nearly 180 days without going out to dinner or even just having a face to face conversation. Saying that, 180 days is usually short when dealing with a deployment because other branches may sometimes go a year.

The other night at work, (Buffalo Wild Wings), I was closely watching this couple on a date. It was clear to me they weren't just "brother and sister" and as I observed, I noticed myself getting jealous. They were sitting there at dinner, less than 2 feet away from one another, texting away on their dang cell phones. She was texting and he was texting, and they were paying NO attention to one another. They were on those stupid things for nearly the whole entire time they waited and it took every single thing in me to hold back from saying something to them. Jokingly of course, I would have said "Do you know what I would give to be in your shoes right now?" That's merely just one example of spending your time efficiently.

So my fellow blog readers :) it's my time. Time to go on a date and time to hold my boyfriends hand again. To all of you out there, thank you so much for listening to my stories and being an uplifting friend to me. Thank you for all the persistent prayers throughout this time. It's been a journey and we are finally near the end!

And Kaden, THANK YOU for being one of the most amazing men I know. You have made me laugh countless times, made me cry just a few times ha, and assured me that we were going to make it. Babydoll, we made it! I love you with all of my heart and I'm so ready to not say, "What was that?" "Huh" "Baby, I can't hear you." :)

SEE YOU NEXT WEEK!!!

Happy Labor Day!

NO LUCK! Someone in 1998 won 6.2 Million Dollars at this Hole-in-the-Wall

Half in Georgia/Half in Alabama

It's been about a month since my last post and a lot has happened.

1. I graduated from The University of Alabama.

2. I've done a lot of cooking since moving back home.

3. I re-finished my first piece of furniture.

4. I sent Kaden a beach ball to Afghanistan and it didn't pop!

5. I got a job at Lonestar in Trussville to make some money and pass the time.

6. I am completely addicted to Pinterest. Ready to start making things!

7. I bought a vintage Iron Table and 2 Chairs at an Estate Sale for $17.

8. It's been 3 months since Kaden's been gone....Getting Closer.

9. On September 9, I mail out Letter #100 to Kaden.

10. I sent him an Alabama care package wrapped in Bama duck tape.

11. Dad and I went riding bicycles on the Chief Ladiga-Silver Comet trail. 30 Miles of riding bikes.

12. I bought $15 worth of lottery tickets and won absolutely nothing.

I hope everyone is having a great Labor Day in this rain! If you need me, I'll be on Pinterest trying to find my next project!

Cheerful

I'm currently sitting on my bed, listening to my fan shoot back and forth as I breathe in the scent of my favorite tea-light candle. Thank you Bed Bath & Beyond for making those cute little things for my enjoyment. My room is COMPLETELY cleaned & organized, with every thing I own in a particular spot. Many of you may know that I love to keep stuff and I'll keep it for as long as I can (until my Mom makes me give it away or throw it away) For the past few weeks, I've been tackling my room. I never wanted to start it because I knew somewhere under my bed I would have to get rid of something that brought a smile to my face. Before I moved home, I started with baby steps. Igot rid of 7 bags of clothes....Go ahead, say it.... "You go girl!" But anyways, I've tried to make more room for everything because in all reality, I don't need my pencil pouch from the 6th grade or all of my sparkly little picture frames that held all of the hilarious pictures of my friends and I.

I officially did it. I did keep my pencil pouch to save all of the other little knick-nacks I just couldn't get rid of. Most of them are very important to me, like all of my seashells from the beaches I've been to, or the bookmark that my sweet baby brother made for me that says "Merry Christmas" with the most ridiculous looking Elf on it. I just can't bring myself to do it. However, I did suck it up and donate tons of stuff to the Thrift Store. I'm definitely a regular there now, don't worry. It's been fun sorting through all of my memorabilia!

On a different note, I've kinda-sorta...okay you caught me...Got addicted to something. Pinterest.com is the coolest website I've come across so far. It is just a board where people pin stuff they think is cool. For example, recipes, DIY projects, wedding ideas, photography, and travel. I love it and I have come up with some pretty ideas. Well, I actually stole them from someone.. :) I found an idea called "52 Things I love about You."

First, I made a list of 52 things I love about Kaden. Second, I typed them out and glued them on a playing card. I used a whole deck of cards (52). I punched holes in it, put rings around it, and made a cute cover for it! BAM, that's it people. Just call me Crafty Catherine. Here is the final product:

I thought it turned out so great! Kaden absolutely loved it. I also sent him a "Christmas in July" care package because who doesn't like getting Christmas twice a year! I individually wrapped every thing I bought him! He opened it on Skype and his facial expressions will forever be burned in my mind!

Sorry for all the transitions, but I graduate from The University of Alabama on August 6th, then off to my friend Katie's wedding!

What an exciting day! I'm excited for graduation and remembering the April Tornado. Tuscaloosa will always have a very special place in my heart!

Also, our family minus Zach took a camping/hiking trip to Cade's Cove Tennessee last week! We didn't fully rough and tough it, but we didn't have a shower for a week. Calm down, I'm only kidding! National parks do not have showers so we had to pay 5 bucks to take one. I took 2 showers, thank you! We hike 2 trails...Abram's Falls (5 miles) and Mt.

Leconte (10 miles & Tennessee's 3rd highest point.) Of course the Page family cannot go any where without having a good time. We saw a black bear, ate at the Pancake Pantry, bought our dog an Alabama jersey, grilled hot dogs, listened to the crickets, scared Dad a time or two, slept good in a tent. I will always forever be grateful for my parents taking us on trips. I've been to some pretty interesting places with my friends and

family! Next stop....Kentucky!! Another state I can mark off!! #23 Woop!

Well, thanks for reading (if you read this far!) I'm continuing to catch up with all of my friends.. MISS you guys!

Deployment

For the last five years, I've spent a huge part of my time sending letters and care packages to my brother, friends, and complete strangers.

For most people, it's not a matter of life but for me the military has become my life. My older brother has gone on 2 deployments, both lasting 4-6 months. Saying that, my emotions have sky rocketed from really high to sometimes quite low. Whether it's watching interviews on TV, or seeing pictures of Military homecomings, I always see it somewhere.

Kaden has officially been gone a month. Thankfully, we have had the opportunity to talk every single day (besides 1 day). He calls me when he can and when I see the long number on my phone, my face lights up! It's a very reassuring feeling the very moment I talk to him, see him on Skype, or receive an email. Nearly 37 letters and 4 care packages later, we are officially 1 MONTH down on this journey. A journey that sometimes seems to fly by, yet other times drag on. The summer always gives me an opportunity to relax but I must say I'm ready to get back into the swing of a routine. I'll be subbing this school year as I look for another part time job. I fully believe the Lord will guide me wherever I need to be.

Thank you to all of you who have faithfully prayed. As I sit here blogging, I'm reminded of the verse, "Draw close to God, and God will draw close to you." How comforting!!

I hope that everyone is having a fantastic summer in this Alabama heat, whew! And if you ever want to make a day, send Kaden a letter :)

A1C Goodell, Kaden S

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First phone call

Today was a great day! I received my first phone call from Kaden! He called right when I walked in the door. I saw an unfamiliar phone number and I knew it was him. We talked for about 2o minutes or so. He sounded very tired but happy to be off the airplane! The time difference is so different. It was 2:30 p.m. here and 1:30 a.m there.

I missed his skype call tonight and I feel terrible. I think I'm just going to always stay logged in now. Last night was a rough night for me because I barely talked to him any yesterday. I lost a lot of sleep last night worrying about him. However, I did get to take a 3-4 nap today so I'll probably be up all night.

Please continue to pray for us. I'm hanging in there! 1 week down....only 9 more months to go.

Thankful

Well, well, well. Let me first apologize to the few followers I have for being a slacker! 2011 has brought me some unexpected happiness. I graduated from The University of Alabama in May but I still haven't walked across the stage. When the tornado ripped through Tuscaloosa on April 27, 2011, they decided to postpone the ceremony until August.

Anyways, my life has been non-stop since then. I've been in Mississippi with Kaden the past few weeks enjoying our last days together before he deployed. On Tuesday, I drove to the Meridian airport knowing that would be the last time I saw him for nearly 9 months. I held up much better than I thought. I just have to keep my head up and remember that God has a plan for my life! For those of you who want to write Kaden, here is his address.....(he would love a letter or card from anyone!!

A1C Goodell, Kaden S

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Hannah's wedding was absolutely perfect and she couldn't have looked more stunning on her wedding day! She went to Mexico for her honeymoon and by looking at her pictures it looked like they had a fantastic trip! Hannah's wedding was so special to me because she is one of my very best friends. She constantly encourages and prays for me. Who wouldn't want that as a best friend? I admire her and Tyler's God-centered relationship and I pray for the same for myself one day.

I've missed all of my friends and for those of you who read this, I'm sorry I've been such a sketch the last few months! Hopefully you'll understand the circumstances with Kaden! Without you guys, I don't know what I would do!!

Hope everyone is doing great and I can't wait to see you soon! Please keep Kaden and I in your prayers while he is in Afghanistan.

Time Flies

It's been nearly a month since I have blogged! Where has the time gone?

I'm finishing up on my last two weeks in Kindergarten and I must say that I absolutely love the little kids! They make me laugh harder than I ever thought. I'm teaching a unit on animals and I've taught some fun activities to spark their interest. Since we were learning about Pandas, I brought in Bamboo for the children. They can't wait to take it home!

On a different note, my life has changed a lot in the past month. I met an amazing guy, Kaden, who truly lights up my life. We met about a month ago in a random situation, ended up talking for the rest of the night, and I've talked to him every day since then. He respects me and who I am and values our time together. He's in the Air Force so he doesn't have too much longer in the United States before he's deployed :( I believe this time apart will help us grow closer to God and ourselves. I can honestly say I'm really happy with life right now.

Last weekend, we went to the RODEO in Auburn, AL and boy what a weekend! I have never seen so many crazy people in my life! We had a fun time and Blake Shelton put on a fantastic show :)

Last night, the Sugarland concert was cancelled due to Tornadoes in Tuscaloosa. I was really upset because the girls from work,(LT, Madeline, and Kelly) were all off for the concert! We had it all planned out. We ended up going out on the town and it amazes me how God can put the perfect people in your life. The girls from work, or the CORE 4 as I would say......have meant the world to me my last semester of college. We constantly encourage one another and without them, my days wouldn't be so bright!

Today is A-DAY, but I have to work!! Hope everyone has a great weekend!

Breaking A Bad Habit

For as long as I can remember (and from what my Mom has told me), I have ALWAYS bitten my fingernails. It's one of those weird, nasty habits that I'm not proud to say I have. As my mom says, I don't even realize I'm biting my fingernails until I'm on finger #10. I bite them when I'm stressed, when I'm bored, and when I'm tired.

Well.....the time has come to....STOP.

My motivation first came when a new friend at work, Lauren Taylor, always had the cutest painted fingernails. Nearly every time we worked, I noticed she had a different coat of paint on her nails. I asked her why she always painted her fingernails so cute, and her response was simple. She used to bite her fingernails and her grandmother told her she would take her to get her nails done if she went three days without biting them.

On Friday night, LT, Madeline, and I had a slumber party at Lauren Taylor's apartment. We had such a good time, and she even painted my fingernails a fun and Spring Purple color.

GOOD NEWS.....GOOD NEWS...
-I haven't bit my fingernails since Thursday, and today is Monday!

I went and bought some hot pink fingernail polish this afternoon!! It is a perfect color for the Springtime :) I'm excited, because even though it sounds silly, it's a huge accomplishment for me!

I've been home since Saturday night and it feels great to be home. Hannah's bridal tea was yesterday and it turned out so good! She got some awesome gifts and I know they are just so excited. I'm coming back to Tuscaloosa on Wednesday to work, work, work! Hope everyone is enjoying Spring Break (if you have one), and keep me in your prayers at night that I can "BREAK A BAD HABIT!!"

Here are some pictures from this weekend!

The Bride to Be!!!

Fortune Cookie

I'm probably one of the biggest fans of "Fortune Cookies." Whoever writes these silly sayings knows how to make me smile for sure. So, I have a funny story! 2 nights ago after work, some friends from work and I went to Kobe to eat some Japanese! Of course, as we were paying....I spotted the fortune cookie on my check. I like to think that when I read fortune cookies that they were made especially for me (selfish I know haha) but a lot of the times, they really relate to my life. This is the one I got Tuesday night.

"You will make many changes before settling down happily."

Good fortune, right? Ya it is! Well, I stuffed it in my purse, payed and went home on Tuesday not thinking anything else of it. Tonight after work, I got another craving for some Sushi and Rice, so I headed back to Kobe by myself for a take out order. I just got finished eating my meal, and it was fantastic! As I spotted my fortune cookie laying in the bottom of my bag, I reached for it excitedly!

GUESS WHAT? There was no fortune cookie in there!!! So, do I eat the cookie or not? I decided to just eat it and make up my own fortune for the night. I'll share it once I think of a good one.

I just thought it was funny because of all things, a small cookie can make me smile. Tomorrow is my last day in 5th grade and I'm going to miss those sweet kids dearly! They have made me mad, made me laugh, and almost made me cry. Each and every one of them have a special place in my heart and even through the good and bad times, I've put a smile on my face. It's been a great first half of the semester thanks to my cooperating teacher, Mrs. Todd, my kiddos, and my friends. Not to mention my AWESOME Gigi's friends. Working at Gigi's has opened my eyes to a different variety of people but I wouldn't trade it for anything. I'm worn slap out at the end of the day after teaching 5th grade, then heading straight to work, but somehow at the end of the day I'm still smiling and wanting to go back and re-do the whole day again.

The Lord places special people/things in your life at the exact and perfect time and I couldn't be more happier/busier than I am right now. Kelly got us a "HAPPY" as she calls them: a fun, cute surprise :) She got 3 of us the most precious cupcake cup!! I love it!

Well, bed time is approaching, my feet are hurting, and my eyes are fading fast. The next few weeks are going to be jam-packed and I'm excited! Hannah's wedding showers are coming up and I cannot wait to share all of these special memories with one of the most Godly women I have ever known. It's going to be a blast! Time for bed, sweet dreams friends :)

2-27-11

This weekend I worked, ate too much, and attended an Education Conference here in Tuscaloosa. On Saturday, I spent most of the day cleaning up a local school. I dusted, swept, and cleaned anything in sight. It was such a beautiful day & I enjoyed the fellowship with new friends!

This morning I went to campus to hear 2 different seminars. The first one was on Bullying and the second one was on Special Education. Here are some notes I took from the session about "Bullying." It really opened my eyes to the problem schools have with bullying. I've always told myself that if I can achieve anything when I become a teacher that I'm going to try and have a positive attitude when dealing with my students. I want my students to become productive citizens in society, but I believe more teachers need positivity and careful preparation!

-When it comes down to it, the issue is power. Every parent believes their child is an 'angel.' The responsibility falls on the teacher when a parent's "baby" becomes a bully.

-Power gives you the opportunity to distribute the blame.

-Just because you're loud, doesn't mean you're right!

-You have the opportunity to create an environment that's different from the outside.

-Students will adapt to a consistent environment. You have to alter their environment.

-We need to start teaching coping skills again: patience, forgiveness, courtesy, etc.

-"I remember when common sense use to be "fairly common."

-Everybody has a plan until you get hit in the mouth. -Mike Tyson.

~So overall, I really enjoyed the Bullying session. Students are exposed to so much and it's amazing how the environment has a huge impact.

-On the other hand, I'm still enjoying working at Gigi's, and I have some great co-workers! There are 4 of us "THE CORE 4" that work really well together and these girls have made my days soooo much better as we sell cupcakes!! Well, I'm off to write lesson plans! Kelly and I ate seafood, and I'm constantly reminded of our great friendship!

Life Lately

Well I turned 22 on Thursday and considering I was sick, I still had a great birthday! I don't quite feel 22 yet, but I'm sure it will sink in soon. I worked on my birthday, but it was great because I was working with my 2 new friends, Lauren Taylor & Madeline. Kelly brought me a pink crown to wear while I was at work, and afterwards we met her at a Japanese restaurant. A few of our friends came out too and it was great to see them!! Kelly bought me some Junie B. Jones books, magnets, a coffee cup, a candle, and tons of candy! I was soooo excited, I'll be ready when I start teaching!

This week has been so beautiful and I wish I had time to enjoy it. I worked 30 hours this week and that's on top of my internship in 5th grade. I am really tired, but I love to work so it's been a fun experience.

I'm finally not sore anymore! My right knee is a little tight, and hopefully I didn't do anything to it! Well, time to catch up on some homework. Come see me at Gigi's!

Mardi Gras 1/2 Marathon

Let me start off by saying there is "Power in Prayer." For the past month, I have been struggling with a possible stress fracture in my left foot. Two weeks before the race, I didn't run one time. I decided letting my foot heal for at least 14 days would be best for me in the long run. I told several people to keep me in their prayers as the race was approaching. I prayed for my foot every single day, and if you think I'm kidding I'm not. 2 weeks ago I went on a run, and I only made it 0.5 miles. Yes, that's right....1/2 of a mile. Well today...

I ran 13.1 miles.

I was beyond nervous for the race because on Saturday afternoon we walked around New Orleans and my foot was giving me problems simply walking around. I just knew there would be no way I could possibly run 13.1 in less than 24 hours. At 5:45 a.m. this morning we were off to the race site to load the shuttle bus. Shortly afterwards, we made it to the start line with "Eye of the Tiger" playing in the background.

I walked to my race corral number and begin warming up. It was quite chilly this morning but with all of the body heat from the runners, I was fine. I talked to a older lady beside me who was running her 1st half-marathon, and I wished her luck. I plugged in my I-pod, and the race was on. As I began running, I immediately began praying for my journey I was about to try to conquer. As I reached the 3 mile mark, my foot was in good shape as I grabbed some water from a volunteer. Then, at mile 6 (almost the half way mark) I saw a lady on the side of the road holding up a sign that read,

PAIN IS TEMPORARY, BUT SUCCESS IS PERMANENT!

My eyes nearly filled with water as I passed a complete stranger knowing she had no idea how much more she just motivated me. I continued running, when I reached mile 9. I started running behind a group of older men who had a good pace. I kept pushing on. At mile 10, my legs started feeling extremely tight, and my foot was beginning to give me discomfort. However, as I ran past a woman wearing a sign on her back that was in memory of her 1 year old son that had passed away, I trekked on. Mile 11 and 12 were tough. I slowed down a lot, not even meaning to. My body was telling me to STOP but my mind was telling me to FINISH! When I came to the 20K part of the race (12.4 miles), I saw the end in sight. I kept telling myself that in less than a mile, I would be crossing the finishing line and heading to the food table to stuff my face. As I turned the corner, my I-pod started playing "Glorious Day" by Casting Crowns. It is a personal favorite that will make me cry on a drop of a hat. Then it happened. I saw hundreds of complete strangers cheering me on, and that in itself made me smile from ear to ear. I crossed the finish line as a medal was placed around my neck.

I stocked up with a bagel, 2 fruit packs, Cytomax (like gatorade), and headed to find the meeting spot.

It felt so nice laying down on the pavement with the sun shining on me. It was a fantastic feeling knowing that my foot didn't give me much trouble. The race was amazing and I had a wonderful weekend!! I also beat my personal record from my 1st half-marathon by close to 20 minutes. But just remember, when you think you can't do something, keep pushing through. Life is full of battles but it is possible to overcome them. I'll post pictures later......

After I take 2 more Advil and a NAP!

Lots of love,

CAT

Helloooooooo 2011

May I just start off by saying, “GOD IS GOOD.” 2011 is shaping up to be quite the year. So as you all may know, I love cupcakes. Yesterday Kelly and I went to the new cupcake place in town called “Gigi’s.” Well, we left with a cupcake in hand (I got wedding cake) and headed to her apartment. We printed off an application and tonight we both got the call that we are both hired!! Tomorrow is our first day!

Last night I was reading my Bible and many of the stories I was reading involved people having FAITH. How easy is it to say, “Yes, I have faith” but truly mean it? I’ve prayed countless times that the Lord will truly lead me down the path that is meant for me. I’m graduating in May, and starting a new chapter of my life. Just to brag a little…I absolutely have the best family and friends anyone could possibly ask for. They cheer me up and make me smile. What more could I possibly want? I’m writing this post tonight with a smile on my face and a wonderful feeling in my heart. God has provided me with more than I deserve and growing closer to him each day is what I desire.

If I could leave a mark on anyone, say a stranger or a friend, I would say “BE THANKFUL.” You may think there are people out there who have a better life than you or drive a nicer car, but the Lord looks at our heart. My relationship with the Lord is something that no one can ever take away from me, and I think that’s worth celebrating for!!

Have a Happy Wednesday and remember, you’re always more attractive when you Smile!

Lots of LOVE

CAT

Goosebumps

Last night Obama was on TV and I thought I'd share with something that gave me chills up and down my spine.

"To every young person tonight contemplating their career choice, if you want to make a difference in the life of our nation, if you want to make a difference in the life of a child, become a teacher. Your country needs you."

Doctor Visit

In less than a month, I'll be running 13.1 miles in New Orleans. Since I've been back, I've been really dedicated to the gym. This past week, my left foot started hurting really bad when I ran. Yesterday, I ran about 6 miles and I had to stop and sit down to see if I could work out the pain. I kept pushing through, because I kept telling myself it was all mental.

I am so frustrated. I went to the doctor this morning and had an X-Ray. The doctor said I may have a stress fracture but you can't see them in X-Ray's, only MRI's. He wrote me a prescription for some pain medicine so hopefully it will ease the pain.

I have to push through this. Sorry for such a depressing blog post, but keep me in your prayers!!!

5th grade

My internship has officially started. I am placed in 5th grade and Kindergarten this semester. For the first six weeks, I am at Verner Elementary in 5th. The last six weeks, I'll be at Cottondale Elementary in K. Friday was my first day, and I really enjoyed it. 5th grade is way different than I thought. The kids are so independent, and that's something I'll have to adjust to.

This weekend has been nice. Friday night, Kelly Peacock and I went and ate at Mellow Mushroom (pizza) and I definitely stuffed my face. Last night we went and ate at Logan's, and we enjoyed their yummy yeast rolls! Afterwards, we watched MISS AMERICA!!! We had a great time & our pick for the winners were very accurate. Kelly is just a joy to be around & I'm blessed to call her one of my best friends.

This past week I started going to the classes offered at the gym. I went to Kickboxing, Boot Camp, and Zumba!!! I am hooked. I also continued to run this week in preparing for the half-marathon coming up :) Well, I hope everyone is having a relaxing weekend. I know I am! I've been watching COPS most of the day :)

Kickboxing and College

2 Things are on my mind tonight: Kickboxing & College

1. I went to a Kick boxing class tonight and it literally "kicked me in the butt." Well, not really but I LOVED it. One of my best friends, Kerry and I went together. The gym was packed out. I see a lot of people made Working-out their New Years Resolutions!

2. Tomorrow is my LAST semester of college. I feel like a kid waiting for Santa Claus tonight. Am I really that close to being finished? Thankful, blessed, anxious, and jumpy are just four words that describe my state of being right now! God has provided so much for me over the past 4 years and I have him to thank!

-I'm starting in Genesis, and yesterday I read the story about Abraham's son Isaac finding a wife. He ended up with Rebekkah, who put 100% trust in the Lord and Abraham's wishes. Th rest of the day I kept thinking about how I need to be more aware and fully trust in the Lord. I have a great feeling about 2011. It may just be the best year ever :)

Let it SNOW, Let it SNOW!

Ok, I'll admit it. When I see snow, I act like I'm about 5 years old. I can't help it. The snow is covering the ground here in Oneonta, Alabama and as of about 9 p.m. we had 2 inches. My dad got out the sled and Jason, Zach, Dad, and me went sledding in the dark. It was quite the adventure. We went to a huge hill in our neighborhood and when I started down it, I could barely open my eyes. Adrenaline rush, if I must say. I can't wait to wake up and see how much more we have! I sent my picture into FOX6 of me sledding and it made the 10 o'clock news! 2 for 2!

On a different note, Church was amazing and very eye opening to me today. With only 9 days into 2011, I feel that I'm about to start a new adventure in my life. But... I don't need to WORRY about it. How easy is it to worry about the future, or even what the day will be like tomorrow?

We need to live by FAITH, not by FEAR.

That's what I need to keep reminding myself in 2011. God is in control! Heading back to Tuscaloosa as soon as I can (I'm definitely not use to these Winter Storm Warnings!) Stay warm, and hopefully you have milk & bread if it's snowing where you live! Ha :)

-Lots of LOVE

~Cat

Mardi Gras Half-Marathon

Time is creeping up on me. In about 4 weeks, my shoes will be laced, and I'll be surrounded by thousands of others half-marathoners. I'm happy to announce that I'll be running in The Big Easy the weekend of February 11th, 12, and 13th. The race is Sunday the 13th. I haven't put in the miles I hoped for over Christmas break but come Monday, it's grind time. I know how my body reacts to running long miles so I'm confident I can run 13.1 come February 13th. My birthday is 4 days after so it will be a nice birthday weekend!

Happy New Year!

I am 6 days late but Happy New Year! This is one of the first times I really haven't came up with New Year Resolutions. I got to thinking about it though and I do have quite a few I want to share.

1. Be a better friend

2. Be more active. Run at least 2 Half-Marathons

3. Read through the Bible.

4. Do things I've never done before.

5. Quit biting my fingernails

I'm on a journey in 2011 and I'm ready to experience more than I ever have. I say that a lot, but this time....I'm serious. I'm heading back to Tuscaloosa on Monday and I start my internship on Friday!! I'll find out next Wednesday what school and grade I'll be placed at.

Last semester of college, last time to enjoy freedom before I began the job-search.

Bring it on, 2011.