Kindness and Encouragement

*Imported from A (Lindsey) Christmas Story*

Last week I registered for the final two classes of my master’s degree program. It’s completely surreal to me that come May 2016 I will have a master’s degree, especially since I never thought I would go to college. In high school I wasn’t interested in academics, and unlike my naturally genius husband, I have to work really hard to make decent/good grades. While most of my friends went straight from high school to college, I was busy figuring things out.

What in the world am I going to do?

That was the resounding thought that played over and over in my mind. I was 20 years old at this point and it had been two years since I graduated high school. All I had to show for it was a few insignificant jobs, a move to Laguna Beach, CA, many mistakes, and some unmentionables. I did enroll at a stenographer school in New Orleans during that two-year span with the hopes of learning the trade and becoming a court reporter, but I quickly decided that wasn’t for me. So, I withdrew and went on my way.

My grades in high school were average, and the thought of college was terrifying. I didn’t think I was smart enough, and certainly couldn’t afford to attend. I was lost and confused, and then I gained employment at Jesse Duplantis Ministries working as a data entry clerk.

And it was a breath of fresh air.

This was my first true office job and the atmosphere was wonderful. I loved the structured 9-5 job and really enjoyed the company of my co-workers. I was content and happy. One day an older co-worker inquired about my future, and I told her that I had no idea what I was going to do with my life. Then she said something that would change my life forever.

“Why can’t you go to college? You are smart, and you know that you can do anything…right? You truly can. You just have to believe that.”

Woah.

Was she serious?

Could I really do anything?

That got me thinking…if this woman believed in me, why didn’t I believe in myself? She stirred up hope and made me believe I could dream big. And not only dream big, but succeed big!

It wasn’t long after that conversation that I began searching for a college to attend. I found Regent University, a Christian school in Virginia, and applied to their distant learning program. My GPA barely made the cut, but I was provisionally accepted and began my college career in January 2007! I started out as a Communications major, but God had other plans, and I ended up graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice in 2012. It took me 6 years, but I finished.

The morning of the commencement ceremony, 8 months pregnant with Arabella.

Now, I’m almost finished with my master’s, and honestly I don’t think I’m stopping there. My desire is to go to law school, and while the timing has yet to work out, I have faith that one day I will be a lawyer. I want to fight injustices and speak up for those who are unable to speak for themselves (Proverbs 31:8-9). I want to protect babies and prosecute criminals and rehabilitate troubled youth. I want all of that and more.

All of this because someone believed in me.

My extended family and friends believed in me, too, but it was my co-worker who got through to me. I don’t even remember her name, but God used her in a BIG way. I am so thankful for this sweet woman who reminded me that I could achieve greatness. Sometimes all it takes is a little kindness and encouragement to change a life. Remember that the next time you’re given the opportunity to lift someone up with your words or actions. You never know what the outcome will be!

No. 15 - Learn to Play Tennis, No. 30 - Further My Education

#15 - Learn to Play Tennis

I have no idea why I never wrote about tackling number 15 on my 30 Before 30 list, but on my birthday (in January!) my husband taught me how to play tennis! It was a pretty cold day, but we were determined to play for a little while. I wasn't very good, but we did manage to play a decent set. I'd say that my biggest challenge on the court was controlling the ball. I would hit it so hard that it would fly way out of the court area and we spent a considerable amount of time searching for the tennis balls! 

Overall, I really enjoyed playing, but unfortunately haven't played since. I'm hoping that as my kiddos get older I will have more time to work on perfecting my tennis skills. :) 

January 2013, taking a break from my tennis lesson

*****

#30 - Further My Education

On October 26th, I began my first semester of graduate school at The University of Cincinnati! I was accepted to their Criminal Justice distant learning program and am currently wrapping up my second class. While UC seems like a great on-campus school, I am highly disappointed with their online CRJU program. I feel like I'm paying for a degree but I'm not learning anything. The classes are large and I never have contact with the professor, but instead a facilitator. Also, in my current class I've only had two assignments -- a midterm paper and final paper. I know that I shouldn't be complaining, but I want more! So, I will be leaving UC and heading to another online program at Liberty University. 

I was accepted to Liberty's Master of Business Administration program with an emphasis on Criminal Justice and will begin in January. I took a semester at Liberty for my undergraduate studies and I think this is going to be a great fit. Plus, my new major is definitely going to make me more marketable in the workplace. While my ultimate goal is to be an attorney, this educational route works best for my family at the moment. :) 

Playing Catch Up

It's been two months since I've last written and so much has changed. For starters, I am happy to report that things are much better since my last post, where it seemed like my family and I were under attack. Here's what we've been up to:

* We moved again! For the fourth time in three years, my family and I have relocated. We are now living in North Carolina, in the lovely town of Mooresville (just 30 minutes north of Charlotte). This move was very sudden, but it is a great one for my family. Keith works mostly in NC, and now we will be seeing a lot more of him. :) So far we are loving Mooresville and cannot wait to start this new chapter with our kiddos.

* I started graduate school in August! I am currently taking my second class and enjoying the material. I'm in the online criminal justice graduate program at the University of Cincinnati, and currently contemplating transferring to a different school to enroll in an MBA program with an emphasis on criminal justice. Regardless, I am happy with this decision to further my education. :)

* Arabella is now four-months-old and Gavin is now 20-months-old! These two sweet (and sometimes crazy) kiddos keep me very busy, but I absolutely adore it. Being a mom is my greatest joy and I love that I get to spend my days at home with them. 

* We are selling our house in Charleston, South Carolina! Obviously we've moved to North Carolina, and we have decided to sell! The last time we moved we rented our house, but that experience was awful. So we're going to try and sell our house. This is such a huge decision for us. My husband bought this house back in 2008 when he was only 23-years-old. It was his first major purchase and means a lot to him. The fact that he is willing to sell this house means the world to me. Once it is listed, I'll post information for anyone who is looking to buy in the Charleston area.

*Halloween came and went, and while we don't really celebrate it I couldn't pass up the opportunity to dress up my kiddos. My little Eric and Ariel. :) 

That's all I've got for today. I'm off to unpack our new home and to spend time with my babies! I'm really hoping to write more. I feel like writing helps to not only document this beautiful life, but to also give me a second to reflect on everything, and have some "me time", too. :) 

I hope you guys have a lovely Monday!

(Halloween pictures were taken by the same lovely photographer who took my maternity and Arabella's birth and newborn pics. Tamara at Bump Meet Baby Studio. :)

Graduation!!!

* Hello, blog readers and friends. Before I start this post, I'd like to comment about my previous post. You know, the one where I declared that my family's NYC trip was absolutely going to happen? Yeah...I need to remember that I do not control everything. Particulary, the excruciating back pain that filled my 28 week pregnant (at the time) body the week before our trip. Needless to say, the trip was postponed. Please note that I am getting pretty tired of writing about pending trips that end up not happening, so in the future, I will not be posting about travel plans until the day they happen.*

This past weekend, my family and I made the 6ish hour drive from our home in Charleston, South Carolina to Virginia Beach, Virginia so that I could attend my college's graduation ceremony. We left on Thursday morning and arrived to gorgeous 70 and sunny weather. The ceremony wasn't until Saturday morning, so we had plenty of time to relax, recoup from the drive, and spend time together. During this time, we visited campus for the first time, had dinner with my in-laws, and I was treated to a much needed mani/pedi.

 My school!

Come Saturday morning at 5:45am, I was wide awake and prepared to face the day. Technically, I had already finished my studies in December 2012 and actually already had my diploma at home. But, there is just something about wearing that silly cap and large gown that makes a person rejoice. It made the last 6 years (yes, six) of my studies come to life.

While the ceremony was quite lovely, the weather was not. It was around 50 degrees and misting non-stop. You know, the kind of mist that gets you soaking wet but doesn't show up on the forecast? Yep, our outdoor ceremony was a bit damp. 

But it didn't matter.

It didn't matter that I was 32 weeks pregnant, cold, and wet.

It didn't matter that so many times I wanted to quit. That over the course of my studies I was beat down and exhausted and just plain ready for a break.

What mattered was that my husband, son, mother-in-law, and father-in-law were on campus, watching me graduate. 

What mattered was that my Louisiana family was in numerous locations (Baton Rouge, Houston, TX, and Mississippi), watching me graduate via the live video feed. 

What mattered was that my daughter, who was extremely active that morning, would be carried in my womb and cross the stage with me when my name was announced.

What mattered was that in this moment, all of those exhausting days were over. I had accomplished something that seemed impossible.

It's hard to describe the emotions I felt on this wonderful day. There was so much happiness present and I am just extremely grateful. I am beyond proud to be a Regent University graduate. The Christian education I received has shaped me into the person that I am today. The discipline I learned from being an online student is absolutely invaluable. The many professors and classmates that I have worked with have challenged me and helped me grow. And while I am sad that this chapter is finally over, I am excited to see what the future holds. Praise God for all of His blessings!

No. 5 - Graduate From College

On December 15th, I submitted the final assignment of my undergraduate career. :) Last week, I received an email confirming that I have met all of the requirements and will be receiving my diploma shortly. I have earned a B.S. in Criminal Justice. :D

It took me six long years, but I finally finished my undergraduate journey at Regent University. During this time, I became engaged, got married, was pregnant, had a baby, am pregnant, and moved six times. I've grown so much over these years and my life is drastically different from 2007.

 March 2007 - Feels like a lifetime ago!

I have so many mixed emotions about completing my undergraduate studies. Of course, I'm so very excited to wrap everything up and to finally have a college degree. More than anything, I am thankful that I found what it is I am passionate about and the field that I am called to be in. But at the same time I am truly sad. I loved taking classes, and these past two years allowed me to dive into my criminal justice curriculum. I miss the challenges, the papers, the interaction with my professors and classmates, but most of all I just miss learning.

With my sweet son turning one in a month and a half, and my precious daughter arriving in this world in June, I am definitely in a different season of learning. And I love it. While I miss school, I know that my educational journey is not over. Until then, I'm embracing this time with my amazing husband and son, and awaiting Arabella's arrival.

In May, my family and I are heading to Virginia Beach so that I can participate in Regent's commencement ceremony. I will finally get to wear that cap and gown, meet fellow classmates and professors, and have a very surreal moment that I have been waiting for since 2007. :)

Relaxing on this Miscellany Monday

Source: flickr.com via Lauren on Pinterest

Good morning, sweet readers. How are y'all doing today? I'm feeling great! Keith and I just finished the last of our assignments and are officially on Fall Break for one week. YAY! Anyway, Happy Monday y'all! I'm full of miscellaneous, so that's what I'll be writing about today. 

* I know it's only Monday, but I am beyond pumped for Friday because....Keith and I are finally going on a date! :) It's been months since our last one and this quality time is much over due. Plus, I'm totally pumped to get dolled up and explore Charleston with my man. :D

 Our first Charleston date, January 2009

* So, my Yanks are in the playoffs, but it is so hard to be happy when Jeter is out with a broken bone in his ankle. He is without a doubt my favorite ballplayer and it just doesn't feel right seeing someone else play shortstop. The Wall Street Journal posted an article yesterday called Without Jeter, These Playoffs Feel Like a Funeral and boy are they right. I'm praying this injury doesn't end his career. I'm praying that he is back next year and playing like himself again.

It may sound silly, but if this is it for him...if he doesn't come back, I will truly be heartbroken. Besides the fact that he's The Captain and is just a damn good player, I am hoping he's okay, selfishly, so that I can see him play in person. I've yet to do that, but it hasn't been without trying. (Remember my honeymoon?) My logic is this -- it's like living in the era of DiMaggio and never making time to get to NYC and watch the greatness in action. Especially now that Gav is here, I just really want to share the experience with him. *sigh* Sorry to ramble, but this is important to me.

* I don't know what the weather has been like everywhere else, but here in South Carolina it has been bliss. Anywhere from the 60's to 70's and sunny. We've also had hotter days and rainy days, but man have those sunny fall days been wonderful. Gav and I have been going on walks and I am really just thankful for these days.

* After one month of avoiding fast food, I decided to splurge yesterday on a Whopper combo from Burger King to celebrate Fall Break. Let's just say I deeply regret this decision. I was so nauseated and felt terrible. Almost like I had food poisoning. Blah. I guess we really are what we eat! I don't want to say too much yet (don't wanna jinx myself) but over the past 5 weeks I've lost a considerable amount of weight (we're talking double digits!) and I am 1 pound from reaching my pre-baby weight. Thank God! (I'm going to write about my results once I reach my goal.) Eating that awful BK meal yesterday was definitely poor judgment, but I'd like to note this experience for the next time I am tempted to eat fried, processed, food...DON'T DO IT LADY!!! (Also, is anyone on My Fitness Pal? If you are, send me your username! I'd love to have more accountability and offer up some encouragement.)

Well, that's all the rambling I have for now. I'll be spending today with Gav and relaxing without feeling guilty. I've been wanting to have an Audrey Hepburn marathon, and I think that's exactly what I'll do. On the lineup? Roman Holiday, Sabrina, and Breakfast at Tiffany's. :)

Happy Monday, readers! 

Skip September, Welcome October!

Hello, sweet readers of mine. How are y'all doing? :) I apologize for my month and a half hiatus, but it was much needed.  I have missed blogging so much, and I'm finally ready to begin writing again on a consistent basis.There were a few times last week where I could have written, but it's been difficult finding the right words to say. Where do I even begin? 

Well, for starters, life is slowing down considerably. Still busy, but slowing down. My family and I moved back into our house and we are beyond thankful to be back home. So much has happened since my last post, and the easiest way to catch-up will be to do a recap....so here we go!

* For Labor Day weekend, Keith, Gavin, and I took a trip to Gatlinburg, TN with my bro/sis-in-law, Stephen and Ivey. If I had to rate this trip, I'd give it a 4. Our cabin was crawling with bugs, Gav's ears were hurting from the altitude, we got stranded in Ober Gatlinburg thanks to some bad weather, and we kept comparing everything to our much more pleasant 2010 cabin trip. We weren't completely  miserable, but  I don't think we'll be heading back to the mountains anytime soon.

Gav hanging out in Tennessee

* I slightly mentioned that we had trouble with the tenants that were living in our house, but I've never really explained. To sum it up, last July Keith and I moved to Atlanta for Keith's job. We rented our home to what we thought was a nice family. Well, we were wrong. They rarely paid on time, and come July of this year they stopped paying all together. We filed for eviction, and one month later we regained possession of our house. We discovered a trashed, abandoned house. They turned off the electricity and left meat in the freezer...and the smell that came from our house was worse than anything I've ever smelled. Keith and I, along with many family members and friends worked very hard over the last month and a half to make our house a home again. We succeeded, and here is the finished product.

This was definitely a learning experience for us and I don't think we'll ever be renting property out again. If we can find them (apparently they've moved out of state), we'll be taking the tenants to small claims court. We know that we'll never recoup the money that we've spent fixing everything, but at least they'll have consequences. There has to be consequences for behavior like this.

* On a much happier note, baby boy is CRAWLING! On September 19th I placed him on a blanket and said "Spread your wings little buddy! Crawl!" And he totally did! It was such an amazing moment and I am very proud of Gavin. He is getting so big and I am just cherishing every season with him.

After he crawled the first time, I grabbed the camera and filmed this video. :)

* I am two weeks away from finishing two of the last three classes of my undergraduate career. My final class begins at the end of October and wraps up right before Christmas. And then that's it! Undergrad will be DONE. Praise. The. Lord!!!

* Last week, Gav and I took a walk with my mother-in-law, Pam on what is a Charleston landmark, The Ravenel Bridge. This was his first time experiencing the bridge, and while he didn't enjoy the walk, he did enjoy hanging out at the park afterward with his Grandma. :)

The top of the bridge :)

Gav and Grandma Pam

I think I covered everything! I'm really excited for October, as it is one of my favorite months. Mellowcreme pumpkins, MLB playoffs, pumpkin spice candles....OH I just love it! I'm not a huge fan of Halloween, but there's just something about the month that ushers in Thanksgiving and Christmas that makes me happy. Plus, you can't beat the cool weather. I'm off to spend some sweet time with my son. What are your plans for the day?

A Full Plate

I have been a sporadic blogger ever since little man entered this world. I've accepted that there just aren't enough hours in the day to accomplish everything on my to-do list, in addition to blogging. And that's okay. But I miss writing, and I miss you guys. Right now, Keith and I are in an extremely busy and exciting season and I'm just trying to juggle everything. My plate is beyond full and until I clear some things off, blogging will be on the back burner.

So what's on my plate?

Well...

 

* On August 6th the eviction process with our tenants finally ended and we regained possession of our property. Since then we've been busy emptying our house of trash. Here's a lovely picture of what used to be our dining and living room.

Yes, that is an aquarium and yes, the tenants did leave their fish. Awesome, right? Luckily we were able to hire Molly Maid and then had the carpet professionally cleaned. Everything looks much better. 

* We are moving. Again. For the third time in one year. In 2 weeks!!! Back to our house we go, and we've got tons to pack. And we haven't started yet...

* This silly boy. He is quite the handful and I'm loving every minute. :)

He likes to roll himself up in his blanket.

* Have I mentioned that my final semester of my undergraduate career starts on Monday? I'm taking 3 classes...

* And I'm still editing part-time for my grandmother's videographry company.

Well, that's all folks. I'll try to write when I can, but I'll likely be neglecting my poor little blog until sometime in September after our move, and when I can catch my breath. I hope you all are have a truly wonderful day. 

Until next time...

It's a Crazy, Wonderful Life

Lots has happened since the last time I've posted on my blog. So much so, that I'm afraid I'll need to sum everything up in order to avoid any further blogging procrastination. I hate that I haven't been able to write much, but the most amazing little boy has been keeping me busy. :) And I simply adore spending my time this way.

Tons of this going on. I love, love, love him!

Alright, here we go with these updates...

* For starters, we've moved! We're now back in South Carolina and living in Summerville (which is about 30 minutes from downtown Charleston). The move happened this past weekend and was very exhausting. Since the house that we own is being rented, we've settled into a lovely apartment. It's a very nice, peaceful community and I have a feeling we're going to love it here. 

In the past, I've been pretty vocal about my distaste for Charleston, but I'm feeling different this time around. I realize that I never really gave it a chance. Now that we're back I am vowing to become a tourist and truly experience the Lowcountry. I want to explore this charming city and immerse myself in the culture, history and all that Charleston has to offer. Let the adventures begin! I am so excited!

* Come June 4th, I will be heading back to work part-time at the disaster preparedness company that I previously worked at in Charleston. They have graciously offered me my old job back and are allowing me to go back on a part-time basis until I'm ready to go full-time. I'll be working 9-5 Monday thru Wednesday and am really excited to be going back to work. However, I am also extremely sad when I think about leaving my sweet boy. :( I currently have separation anxiety when I leave him to take a shower, and I have no idea how I'm going to manage leaving him for work. BUT, I think it's going to be great for our family and for me to work part-time.

* Last week was Keith's first week solo at his new job and he absolutely crushed it! He met the quota that his company set for his first month in the first week! My husband is severely blessed with his ability to sale and I am SO proud of him! :) 

Gavin and I actually joined Keith on his first week of travel and during our stay in Wilmington, NC I found the location of One Tree Hill's river court! The bad news is that since OTH is over, the court has been demolished. :( The only thing left is a patch of dirt, but it was still pretty cool to be at this spot. Wilmington is gorgeous and Keith, Gav, and I will be heading back for a mini vacation.

* I previously mentioned that I may have finished the Spring semester with two A's...and I did!!! (Well, an A and an A-, but hey, that's two A's!) I have three classes left until I graduate with a Bachelors in Criminal Justice and I am beyond thrilled. It's been a long road (6 years!) and I am finally finishing my undergraduate studies. Pending an Academic Petition to substitute one of my required classes and an Independent Study request for my CRJU Senior Research class, I will potentially be taking all three classes this fall and then THAT'S IT! :D Come May 2013, I'll make my way to Virginia Beach and walk across that glorious stage! Thank you God!

* A few days after Gavin was born, I found out that I was awarded a 50% scholarship to an amazing LSAT Prep Course -- Blueprint! Keith and I could not pass up the deal and we purchased the course for me to begin studying for this beast of a test. I will be taking the October administration of the test here in Charleston and will begin studying May 1st. This gives me plenty of time, but with a newborn and my hectic schedule I'm definitely going to need the extra time! I am very anxious about this test and can't wait until this step of the law school admission process is over.

Whew I think that's the just of everything. I hope you guys are doing awesome! Hopefully I'll be back sooner than later. :) 

Updating Life on a Miscellany Monday

 via

~ I want to start by saying thank you so much for all of your kind and encouraging words about my last post. I was so discourage by the crazy midwife, but after hearing from you guys I just know that everything will work out. :) I have a doctor's appointment on Thursday and I will be voicing my concerns about this midwife. I'll also be telling them that I will refuse treatment from her (in a civilized manner) if she is there that day, so please pray that the response I get is a supportive one. 

~In other baby news, I have decided to have a doula with us to support me at Gavin's birth. After the crazy midwife fiasco I called a doula that was recommended to me at the childbirth class Keith and I took a few weeks ago. Her name is Amber and she is coming over tonight for our consultation. We've only spoken once, but she comes highly recommended and sounds wonderful. Since I'm only 2(ish) weeks out we'll be fast-tracking everything and confirming everything tonight. I am so excited about this! Not only will she support me in my desire for a natural birth, but she'll also be the buffer between me and the medical staff. (Especially if the crazy midwife is there!)

~ I wanted to let you guys know that we still haven't heard anything about the job that Keith interviewed for back on February 1st. We didn't think it would take this long to hear back, but it's apparently a long process. We've heard from a little birdie that Keith is being highly considered...but that's all hearsay for now. We're hopeful that we'll hear something soon and that it will be good news...so fingers crossed! :) Prayers are certainly appreciated.

~ Today begins my final week of classes for the spring semester!!! YAY! Y'all, I was so worried Gavin would come early and I'd be stuck playing catch-up, but it looks like I'll be able to get everything completed. What's even better? The fact that I'll have an A in Criminal Evidence and (possibly) an A- in biology! I'm 1 point away from this A-, but I think I can pull it off. This is HUGE for me because I despise biology, but by the grace of God I pulled it off! Thank you Lord! 

~ My little sister Lacey is flying to Atlanta on Saturday and I am so pumped! She's coming to stay with me and Keith as we wait for Gavin to arrive. Since school will be over, Lace and I will be sending out baby shower thank you cards, doing a belly cast, and preparing for Gavin. :) 

How cute is my sis? :)

Warm wishes on this chilly Monday! :)

Just Another Miscellany Monday

~ Words cannot describe how happy I am that last week is over. It. Was. Crazy!!!! I'm ecstatic to report that I was able to get all of my schoolwork (a few discussion posts, 5 tests and a lab) completed and am now up to date on everything. Thank you God! Life is still busy, but the weight of being behind on everything is off of my shoulders...which of course means back to blogging. Yay! :)

~ Had I know that LSAC was going to email me the results of my fee waiver appeal, I wouldn't have stalked the mess out of my account. Unfortunately, my appeal was denied and I won't be getting any fee waivers. :( While it stinks, it's not the end of the world. Keith and I are in a pretty new, unique financial situation, and I can understand why they would deny me the waiver. Thankfully, it seems like things are looking up for us and we'll be a-okay paying for LSAT tidbits. Bring it on!!!

via

I know I haven't destroyed the LSAT (yet), but this was just too cute not to post.

~ Okay, does anyone watch The Mentalist? Keith and I have been catching up on older episodes and we are completely hooked. It is so cleverly written and we just love Patrick Jane! We've just seen the season 3 finale and cannot find season 4 (the current season) online anywhere...except the Canada iTunes store! Lol we've tried to purchase the first episode, but low and behold, we're not in Canada and the transaction won't go through. Does anyone know where we can find these episodes?

via

~ Taylor Swift and The Civil Wars recently released a song called "Safe and Sound" that will be on The Hunger Games soundtrack. It is absolutely beautiful, and in my opinion, the best that Taylor has sounded. But, there's a singer by the name of Savannah Berry who recently covered the song, and dear goodness she will take your breath away. This little girl is amazing and I can't wait to see her career take off. 

Happy Monday!

Is Today Really Thursday???

I cannot believe that it's been over a week since my last post. Things have been absolutely crazy and I don't even know where to begin. Due to the fact that things are still very hectic and I must play catch-up with my schoolwork, I'll make this post short and sweet.

* Keith and I left for Charleston, SC last Thursday evening. This was a planned trip, and we were heading to the Lowcountry for our co-ed baby shower/to spend time with friends and family.

* Our baby shower was on Saturday and it was absolutely lovely. We are so blessed to have such amazing people in our lives.

* After the shower, Keith received a call from a potiential future employer about a job interview! So, on Tuesday of this week, we headed from Charleston to Charlotte, NC for my hubby to interview with a new company. The interview went as well as it possibly could have...so now we wait. :)

* Two words: Swollen. Feet. After our drive to Charlotte this awesome pregnancy symptom kicked in, and boy is it uncomfortable. I shouldn't complain too much though...I've had a pretty easy pregnancy.

* Here's a sneak peak from our Maternity shoot. I adore these pictures and can't wait to see more.

all from here

That is all for today. I am overwhelmed by the amount of things on my to-do list for this week...and apparently today is Thursday, which leaves not much time for anything! I'll be back with a baby shower re-cap, an update on my LSAC fee waiver status, and hopefully fantastic news about the interview. Wish me luck! 

The First Miscellany of the Year

~ Today is January 2, 2012. And while I am filled with all of the hope that a new year brings, I can't help but feel anxious and nervous. In approximately 9 weeks, my son will be born and life as I know it will change forever. So many questions fill my mind and it amazes me how much impact one tiny person can have. But whether we are ready or not, Gavin Josiah will be here soon...and I am thankful that Keith and I were blessed with the miracle of life. For all you new moms out there -- How did motherhood change your life?

~ Today is also the first day of school for the spring semester. I am only taking 7 hours, with 4 of them being Biology 101. Ladies...I am absolutely dreading this class. I have never been good at sciences, and this class is extremely intimidating. We are expected to devote twenty hours per week to classwork, and week one includes an original 500 word post, two responses, three quizzes, and a lab. Lord. Help. Me. 

~ On the bright side, I am also taking Criminal Evidence and am SO pumped about the layout of this class. Written assignments are given in a law school final exam format, and I can't wait to see how I'll do! It's definitely perfect timing since I'll begin studying for the LSAT in a few months. 

~ One of the most special gifts I've ever received from Keith was a bracelet that he gave me for Christmas. It is a James Avery charm bracelet, and while I've never been a big fan of charm bracelets, this one has completely stolen my heart.

I love the charm and how it shows the embrace between a mother and her child, and Gavin's name engraved on the back truly makes this bracelet perfect. Thank you to my sweet husband for this wonderful gift that I'll treasure forever.

Have a lovely Monday, readers!