Insight on Authority

Life has been somewhat of a world-wind lately; between changes at work, family and wedding planning I have hardly had time to reflect on all the things happening in my life. Most importantly God is working in my life and I am so grateful. I could not have made it through the past two weeks without my amazing parents, supportive fiance and strength found in prayer. God taught me an incredible lesson this past week and yesterday in church it was all summed up; it felt as if the Paster was speaking directly to me. I am thankful that I could hear God's word so clearly because it was exactly what I needed.

There were some changes in my life that filled my heart with anger and resentment. I was absolutely miserable and knew I couldn't keep living with this emotion so heavy on my heart. As my Pastor put it yesterday morning, I was in the mist of spiritual warfare; my human flesh was seeking revenge and my spirit was seeking submission and forgiveness. Each morning I would pray to accept the changes in my life and find peace; although it was hard I would pray for the people that were unfair.

Last week God taught me how to be submissive, he brought me peace and acceptance over the things for which I have no control over. Sometimes in life you must give into the urge to seek revenge and make a decision to give it all to God. We sometimes need to be reminded that He puts people in authority over our lives and it is our job to be submissive; if unjust things occur we must pray for God's will in authority.

"It is God's will that your honorable lives should silence those ignorant people who make foolish accusations against you." ~1 Peter 2:15

"You who are slaves must accept the authority of your masters with all respect. Do what they tell you-not only if they are kind and reasonable, but even if they are cruel. For God is pleased with you when you do what you know is right and patiently endure unfair treatment." ~1 Peter: 2:18-19

"For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps."  ~1 Peter 2:21

"Don't repay evil for evil. Don't retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and he will bless you for it. If you want to enjoy life and see many happy days, keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies. Turn away from evil and do good. Search for peace, and work to maintain it. The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right, and his ears are open to their prayers. But the Lord turns his face against those who do evil." ~1 Peter 3:9-12

I'm Engaged!!!

The Proposal

Micah and I decided to have a relaxing Saturday evening so we went to dinner and saw Promethus in Southlake. Promethus was intense and scary so I jokingly said that we needed to go do something upbeat and fun after we got out of the theater. Micah said, "Let's go, I know just the place." When we got in the car Micah was trying to lighten the mood so he started up a little karaoke session. I couldn't stop laughing as he attempted to sing and dance to songs he didn't know the lyrics to. Micah wouldn't tell me where we were going and the suspense was building as we drove to Fort Worth. He pulled into the parking lot at Trinity park (our favorite place to have a picnic lunch during the week). We went for a stroll through the park and he stopped me in-front of our favorite tree (Micah and I have spent countless hours talking and laughing about life underneath this tree) and he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. I was overwhelmed with happiness and cried tears of joy as he placed the rose ring on my left hand. It was so dark outside he had to pull out his phone to show me the ring! Things couldn't have been more magical as we embraced each other fireworks began going off behind the trees in the park. Words can't expressed how excited I am to be engaged to my best friend and love of my life! The past four months have been amazing and filled with more love than I could have ever imaged!

The Ring

I have always worn a rose ring on my right hand as a symbol and reminder of the love I want to have in my life. On our third date Micah asked me why I always had on the rose ring and I told him it was symbolic for the love my Grandparents had. My Grandma Rose and Papa's house was one of my favorites places to be when I was a child. My Grandma Rose always filled the house with so much love and my best childhood memories are of our family at Christmas. It has always been so important to me to find someone to create that love for our family. I wanted to find the love that could withstand anything...the love that fills your heart with joy and kindness. For the longest time I wasn't sure I could find the kind of love I dreamed of and then I met Micah. He is the most incredible person I have ever met and he has forever changed my life. He is patient, humble, caring and thoughtful...he has the biggest heart of anyone I know. He makes me laugh, fills my heart with love and my soul with joy. Today Micah replaced my rose ring with a rose gold engagement ring to symbolize the love that we have together...the love I have always dreamed of finding. 

"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away." ~ 1 Corinthians 13:4-8

"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love." ~ 1 Corinthians 13:13

Let me simply say... 11.12.13 will be the best day of my life!

Plans for a Lifetime

When I was baptized ten years ago I was asked to share my favorite verse and I chose to read Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." This verse has always meant a lot to me because I am a planner and time and time again God has shown me that his plans are bigger than mine. "Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand." ~Proverbs 19:21

As I look back upon this verse now I have a different perspective. For the longest time I've been waiting for this grand event to happen in my life. In college I believed that pursuing my degree would allow me to fulfill my purpose later on in life. Then I thought that if I found the perfect job I could start living out His plan. I have been living my life based upon an agenda; a checklist of events. What I realize now is that this verse isn't about a single event, but His plans for a lifetime.

My purpose has already begun to form through my relationships. Life is about the relationships you build and the love you share along the journey. I have learned that it isn't about where you are in life, but rather who you are with. I am joyful that my life isn't about a single event, but a lifetime full of plans to fulfill the purpose He has for me. We are all designed for something signifiant and we were implanted with dreams from God.

Let me simply say... its time to stop waiting and just start living!

For the Long Haul

I used to fear long term relationships. I would put in minimal effort just to keep things going, but never enough to be vulnerable and grow. I am so thankful to have found a love without fear. A love that allows me to be vulnerable. I have never had such peace and joy in my life like I do now. This is the kind of love and happiness that I never thought I would find and I want nothing more than to cherish it each and everyday for the rest of my life. My pastor recently did a sermon on life long commitment that really hit home for me. I just wanted to share a few of the things he said as they pertain to this new journey in my life.

I have been the girl who was always in a relationship and my parents have seldom approved. According to my parents they were never the "right one" and it is not until now that I understand why.  It is so important to have the same perspective on life; a singular set of values. As humans we tend to look for external things and believe that those are the things that hold us together; we are sorely mistaken. There has to be so much more than the external things in a relationship because if you have a relationship built for the long haul you will always see the beauty in the person you love. Our values must line up as we make a commitment to do life together as a team.

It's also important to have a managed mind. Love is a decision, not an emotion. The emotion forms in the beginning of the relationship and it is hard not to get wrapped up in it. A relationship built for the long haul is based upon the decision to love that person each and every day. We must pick our battles and not lose site of the big picture when the little things consume our mind. Trouble is normal in life and we must accept that we won't be happy everyday. Most of all, we must not allow our love to be destroyed by life, but grow in God through prayer.

Love must roll with the seasons. The emotion is so strong for me right now and I want to skip to the next season, but I must ground myself from jumping ahead too soon. It is important to experience and enjoy each season of love; from courtship to engagement, to marriage and kids, each season is filled with ups and downs and we must cherish each and every one because their will be a day we look back overwhelmed with joy of seasons passed.

A relationship built for the long haul must share the same activities. It is important to experience romance, fun and laughter together. Our courtship has only just begun and we have spent an incredible amount of time together enjoying different activities from a comedy show, the zoo, the Rangers game to just afternoons spent talking and laughing under a big oak tree in the park. I absolutely love every second I spend with him and it doesn't matter what we do together; I just want to be by his side. We are growing to love the different activities in each other's lives and finding new ways to share and enjoy them together as a couple.

Lastly, a life long commitment must share the same spirit. A marriage for the long haul is the death of two people and the resurrection of one flesh. When you die to yourself you handle situations in marriage the way God would. "And he said to all, 'If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.'" ~ Luke 9:23 God has a plan for each marriage, but it has to be aligned by him.

Let me simply say... I am so blessed and thankful to have found this love.

Finding Peace

What does having peace really mean? This world is filled with so many quick fixes. After a long and stressful day I will go to the gym, shop or have a glass of wine to help me relax, but nothing I do actually fixes the heart of the problem. These peaceful remedies are only temporary bandaids. I have been using a lot of bandaids lately and it's about time I face the problem with an actual solution.

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid." ~ John 14:27

I sometimes go to God with shame because I feel like what I am going through is irrelevant in the grand scheme of things, but that is part of problem. I must remember to go to God daily and stop trying to find peace in worldly things. I had a rush of emotion come over me today during worship and it wasn't until today that I realized I am exhausted from the failure of trying to find peace in this world. I am looking in all the wrong places.  

"Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me. I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world." ~ John 16:32-33

Let me simply say... I have found spiritual peace.

Patience is a Virtue

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." ~ Galations 5:22-23

In life there are challenges that I must overcome, opportunities that arise and important decisions that must be made. My Dad always tells me that the most important thing is that you complete everything you put your mind to and that it is not what you do in life, but how you do it.  One of the hardest lessons I have had to learn is that you can't make plans and then learning how to let go of those plans when you realize that God's plan is bigger than yours. I used to make these grand plans for how my life would unfold and now I look back and laugh at how silly I once was. I find so much peace and joy from Jeremiah 29:11 and it is a verse that provides me reassurance that I don't carry the burden of making plans.

"For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." ~ Jeremiah 29:11

As of right now I have no plans, which absolutely terrifies me. I think the scariest thing is accepting the fact that I have no control. Instead of a plan I have a vision of what God wants to do with my life and I must now learn the virtue of patience. We live in such a fast paced society it is natural to expect instant results and gratification. I sometimes wonder why my vision seems so distant and then I remind myself that although I can't currently see God's work in action, I know in my heart that behind the scenes he is preparing a way to use my life. I must wait patiently for him to put my vision into action and understand that it is His timing and not mine.

Sometimes I wonder why things happen the way they do, but it is through those unexpected challenges that I see God work in my life. Through the hardships I realize that He is preparing me for things to come.

I waited patiently for the Lord; He turned to me and heard my cry." ~ Psalm 40:1

Let me simply say...He has shown me time and time again that anything is possible!

KONY 2012: The Power of People

I watched the compelling and emotional Kony 2012 video that went viral last week and I was at a loss for words. I am so thankful for people like Jason Russell who stand up for what they believe in and are passionate about making our world a better place!

One of the most powerful things Jason said in the video was "we share what we love and it reminds us of what we all have in common." The thing that makes the Kony 2012 campaign successful is people from around the world are connecting for one cause using social networks, public figures and publicity.

I liked that Jason included another viral video example, the video of the first time Sarah Churman heard herself speak. I had the opportunity to hear Sarah Churman speak at Cowboy Way Church a couple months ago and her story was both inspiring and hopeful. It is truly amazing how videos become viral and people have the ability to share their story with millions.

Some people think our society is too "tuned" into social networks, but they have become such powerful tools and created a new way of connecting with people around the world, not only people but causes, such as Kony 2012. As a professional in the marketing and communication field I am so proud of the Kony 2012 campaign and the movement Invisible Children has created. I can only hope to be a part of something that big one day!

To all those people out there criticizing this campaign: Please remember that we don't choose when or where we are born, but because we are here we all matter. The location of the problem is irrelevant; it is our duty as humans to live with integrity and make a difference in the lives of one another. I believe we can put a stop to people like Kony and the various other world problems that have yet to receive the necessary publicity and attention.

Let me simply say...the power lies within the people!

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The Journey to Fulfillment

This past Sunday I was at home relaxing and channel surfing when I came across a seminar from Tony Robbins on OWN. For those of you that don't know, Tony Robbins is a worldwide life coach who helps people reach their full potential. I've always been intrigued by leadership and read countless books on how to be successful; from The Secret to The Flip Side.

I think my interest in leadership sparked when I was fourteen and graduated from Rapport Leadership International. As I look back now attending that training forever changed my life and is one of the biggest blessing my parents have given me. Rapport taught me the importance of effective communication, team work and the power of my mind. I experienced some of the biggest emotional highs and lows, but most of all I was pushed outside of my comfort-zone, overcame my fears and learned that I have the ability to accomplish anything.

With my focus, determination and energy I broke a block of wood and bent a metal bar with absolutely no pain; I still have them as a cherished reminder of my break through. Those who know me, know that I don't have an ounce of physical strength and that is one reason why those two challenges made such a drastic impact to my way of thinking. Attitude greatly impacts day-to-day life! I sometimes think many people are missing that potential to succeed because their mind is in the wrong place. Our minds are so incredibly powerful!

I'm a thinker and I love to observe people. Here lately I have been thinking a lot about what it means to be happy in life.  I've realized that so many people are searching for happiness and are continuously let down because life isn't about happiness; it's just a brief state of mind. Life is about fulfillment. The big question is...do I feel fulfilled at the end of the day through my relationships and work?

This may seem random, but on my way to work each morning I see a man sitting on the corner of Summit Avenue. He never has a sign or asks the passing cars for money; he just sits there each morning. He never makes eye contact with me; he just glances into the horizon with contentment. So many cars pass by him and don't notice him, yet I can't get the image of him out of my head. I want to know what his story is, what he thinks about and observes each morning.

I became very passionate about the homeless community after reading the book Same Kind of Different As Me. I even visited the Union Gospel Mission to get a better idea of where the book took place. I get so disappointed in the way our society handles issues like poverty. This may sound weird, but I hate when people just toss their money into the tin of a begging person on the street. Why don't we attack the problem at the root? The people on the streets of Fort Worth are no different than the working class and throwing money at them is not going to help them in the long run. It takes dedicated volunteers filled with love like Deborah Hall and places like the Union Gospel Mission to build up confidence and trust in those who are lost.

We are all born with a powerful mind, if we learn how to focus and control our attitude, we will all have the potential to do great things in this world. It is not about the haves and have nots because we are all the same...the only thing that sets us apart is our story. Life is not about happiness, it is about how we pursue fulfillment.

Let me simply say... I am going to break through my fear and do something big one day!

TCU's Flawless Crisis Communication

I typically only blog on Sundays, but how could I pass up an opportunity like today? Two of my favorite things, public relations and Texas Christian University...I just had to chime in.

For those of you that don't already know 17 TCU students were arrested today for selling drugs on and around campus. Although this is disappointing news for the TCU community, it is also a great example of flawless crisis communication. It is unfortunate that the community is currently not focused on the men's basketball victory, or the release of the first Big 12 Conference football schedule. 

In all of my journalism courses, I was taught that the only way to make the best of a bad situation is to confront the issue and TCU did just that. Here is a short outline of proper crisis communication and how TCU executed their crisis plan with perfection:

1. Express genuine empathy

TCU released statements, press releases and conducted a conference stating their shock and disappointment.

2. Own the message quickly

TCU was prepared and responded within hours of the arrests. They stated the clear expectations they have of their students; to behave in an ethical manner. They also expressed that the students' actions were not compatible with TCU values and the students involved in this activity were immediately separated from the University.

3. Commit to full transparency

TCU is owning this story and the actions of their students. They are releasing information and statements in order to decrease the amount of rumors and spread of misinformation. TCU's transparency also showcases their confidence in their core values and their ability to not let this event define them. 

4. Put a face on the industry

Chancellor Victor J. Boschini has been the primary spokesperson and has responded in a professionial and positive manner. As a well-respected figure of the TCU community, Chancellor Boschini is reminding the public of the University's dedicated students and faulty, and their commitment to higher education and leadership.

5. Propose an action plan
Dr. Kathy Cavins-Tull, the Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs proposed the plan to examine new programs and procedures needed to prevent this type of behavior in the future.

I can only hope that the greek community responds in a similar fashion. Compared to other crisis situations involving Universities and businesses, TCU has upheld their vision to be a world-class, values-centered University. 

Let me simply say...I am a proud TCU Horned Frog Alumni! 

The Power of Friendship

Both of us at our favorite
place, Bear Creek Park

I'm not sure where to even begin. This week has been one of the longest and hardest weeks I can recall. On Monday my best friend's mother tragically passed away and he also lost a part of his home. Growing up I would hear stories of horrible things, but it hits you like a ton of bricks when it happens to someone you know. It is times like this that you wish the world would stop, but the hardest part of all is that life doesn't slow down...not one bit. 

There aren't enough kind words to say about Kelli Hundt. First and foremost she loves her son more than anything else in this world. She was always looking out for him and did everything she could to make sure he grew up to be a fine young man. I know she will still be watching over him from above. 

She was genuine, loving and one of the most patient people I have ever met. She was always giving and had everyone's best interest at heart. Whenever I got mad at my parents in high school, I would "runaway" for a couple of hours and it was always to the Hundt's home. Looking back now I laugh at how childish I was, but I spent a lot of time in her home and she always made me feel welcomed like a part of the family. She will be greatly missed.  

This week really showed me how life can change in a matter of minutes. Always, always, always let your loved ones know how much you appreciate and care about them. Life can be so scary; each and every moment is unpredictable. Above all else, cherish your friendships. I can't thank Erin and Randy enough for their support this week. I don't know what I would do without both of you. Please pray for Kamron and his family as they deal with this tragic loss. It breaks my heart to see him go through this, but at the same time I have never been more proud of him than I am now. 

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed." ~Psalm 34:18

Let me simply say... relationships are the most important thing in life. 

Best of the 2012 Superbowl

The best part of the Superbowl is of course the commercials. Here are a few of my favorites this year:

M&M: Sexy and I know It

Super cute and clever! This commercial made me laugh.


Doritos: Man's Best Friend

I am always impressed each year by Doritos' commercials. They definitely didn't let me down this year. This commercial is just precious!

Doritos: Sling Baby

Gotta love the granny and baby!

Volkswagen: The Dog Strikes Back

Absolutely love Volkswagen and I look forward to their commercials. I watched the Bark Side Teaser and thought that was great, but this took it to another level.


Bud Light: "Here we go" Rescue Dog

Yet again another commercial featuring a dog....must be the theme this year. Loved the connection to dog rescue at the end. Make sure you check out their Facebook and vote! 

Let me simply say... I love advertising! 

Lessons Learned in the "Real World"

It is hard to believe that I started my career six months ago...time has flown by. I am a strong believer in higher education, but there are some things that can only be learned through experience. I am looking forward to grad school in two and half years, although I am amazed at how much I have grown in the "real world."

Here are a few of my lessons learned as an Account Manger... I am sure there are many more to come!

• Respect grows out of performance and performance grows at each and every interaction with clients and coworkers.
• Always triple check deliverables. Reputation and trust are built over time and can be destroyed in an instant. 
• Be up front, be open and admit mistakes. The best solution to any problem is to address it immediately with honesty and a plan to move forward. 
• Always accept more responsibility. Quality is the measure by which you rise to the challenge and exceed expectations. Meet, beat and repeat. 
• Service is where transactions are transformed into relationships. Practice what you preach, meet deadlines, follow through and never let clients down. 
• Learn something new each day. Creativity, passion and knowledge are contagious. Surround yourself with a talented team.
• Listen more and talk less. The ability to listen is an overlooked skill and one of the most powerful communication tools. Listening insures effective execution. 
• There is never too much communication. The most successful relationships are built upon a foundation of constant communication.

Let me simply say...my career is off to a great start! 

Success to Significance

The past four years of my life had an emphasis on success. I had a fear that I may struggle to find a position in the marketing field due to the current economic state. I was determined to do everything in my power to be successful. Everything I did was focused on my performance in order to create the perfect resume. I felt this deep need to prove myself.

My church started a new series this month called Identity Theft and it has really been an eye opener for me. One thing that has touched me these past few weeks is that my identity is determined by God's love and not by my performance. I sometimes lose sight of the fact that God loves us before we have anything figured out and that His love never diminishes. My dreams seem so far away right now and I find comfort knowing that I don't have to figure everything out. I have faith that through Him I will find my way.

Moving forward I must learn that life is not based upon success alone, but rather the significance of relationships. I believe that one of the most important things in life is finding a way to incorporate success and significance daily.

"One day as Jesus was walking along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers-Simon, also called Peter and Andrew-throwing a net into the water, for they fished for a living. Jesus called out to them, 'Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!' And they left their nets at once and followed him." ~Matthew 4:18-20

Let me simply say...shifting priorities.

My 7 Highly Effective Habits

1. I am insanely terrified of bees.
I have never been stung before, but the second a bee is within a yard I run and scream like a three year old little girl. Unfortunately, one of my favorite things to do in "bee season" is swim and layout by the pool - Most people need a lifeguard, but I require a "bee guard" (someone who is constantly on the lookout for approaching bees).


2. I take shots of queso.
I could probably say with great confidence that queso is my absolute favorite food - Italian of course would follow as a close second. In the rare occasion that I would actually pick a restaurant, that decision would be based solely upon the ranking I have placed upon their queso. My best friend and I eat out frequently and he always laughs and says, "Gez Lauren, skip the chips and just drink it already." I just might have to try that sometime.


3. I always Eat Pray Love.
This is odd but I must admit that my all time favorite move is Eat Pray Love...I'm sorta obsessed. My family has learned to never let me pick out a movie because I always want to watch Eat Pray Love. The movie is a combination of all my favorite things...food, culture, religion, friendship and love. Nothing beats cuddling up with my horned frog pillow pet, a glass of wine and some Eat Pray Love.


4. I am addicted to shopping.
Shopping is like a game to me. When I shop I am a woman on a mission and my wardrobe is like a collection. I love finding the perfect match to an item I bought a couple months back. One positive thing about my shopping addiction is that I am a huge sale shopper. I rarely ever buy anything that is not on sale...unless of course the item is literally one of a kind. I don't consider my week complete unless I buy a new pair of shoes.

5. I like to eat other peoples' dinner. 

My ideal dinner is an appetizer sampler and I honestly think the best strategy for eating out is to take a bite of everyones' food. The truth is maybe I just don't know how to order or I am completely indecisive, but seriously everyones' food always looks and tastes better than mine. However, it may be an Italian or Secchio trait because I am definitely not the only person in my family that does this.

6. I secretly want to be an Interior Designer.
As a teenager I would spend countless summer hours watching design shows and I would redesign my room each year. There is nothing better than recreating your space with a fresh and new look. I used to love helping people design their home when I worked at Pier 1 Imports. It was a great job, minus the fact that a majority of my paycheck never actually made it to the bank.


7. I want to be the next Bachelorette.
I have watched every season of the Bachelor/Bachelorette and I must say I have received some great dating advice (what not to do 101) from all the crazy people that embarrass themselves on National TV. I don't believe that people actually fall in love on the Bachelor, but it would be a pretty awesome social experiment to be a part of. And dating 25 guys at one time...what girl wouldn't want that?


Let me simply say...I'm a bit quirky.

A Girl's Best Friend

This week I had to say goodbye to one of the best dogs I have ever had. Growing up I always had a dog, but I was never really attached to any of them like I was to Cole.

One of our last pictures together 12/25/11

Six years ago my Mom and I were at the carwash and in the lobby there were two little schnauzer puppies. As we waited for our car we played with the two pups and to our surprise learned that the owner was trying to find a home for them. We had no intention of getting another dog, but it was one of those moments in life when you know you were brought together by fate. My Mom and I knew immediately that Cole would be the perfect addition to our family. Right before I picked him up for the first time he peed all over the floor and that is one of the things that got him his name...we knew he would be a little spit fire and he was black like coal.

Cole immediately became a huge part of our family. He was so bright and took hardly no time at all to train. He followed us around the house everywhere we went, ran to greet us when we came home each evening, and best of all at dinner he would lay his head on our laps and grunt like a pig as he begged for us to share our dinner. The running joke in our family is we should have called him Wilber because he looked and sounded like a potbelly pig.

He was quite the character. He absolutely hated the doorbell and splashing in the pool. His favorite foods were popcorn and fruit loops. He loved this stuffed animal dog I got him named Ikey. Ikey was half the size of Cole and he would carry him around everywhere. At one point in time Ikey even lost his head and we had to sew it back on. Cole was a spunky little guy and would always alert us when someone was outside our house. He was also a great judge of character. He knew best and let us know when he wasn't particularly fond of one of our boyfriends, friends or visitors. Lastly, we think he was partial cat...he loved attention and when you pet him he purred.

My favorite memory of Cole is the way he would cock his head to the right and perk up his ears when I said his name. I believe there is a place for dogs like Cole in heaven. He brought so much joy and unconditional love to our family. I was truly blessed to have Cole in my life. He taught me so many things and I will cherish the memories we had together forever.

Let me simply say...Cole will be greatly missed.

In memory of all the loved and lost dogs in my life. 

I am a Dreamer.

One of my favorite pictures I took in the park

Growing up as a kid I spent a majority of my time outdoors. I loved to climb trees, make forts, spin around on a tire swing until I fell over and figure out just how many different ways I could climb up a slide. Although I am not as daring as I used to be, I still love to spend my time outdoors instead of playing video games or watching TV.


There are so many beautiful things in this world that we take for granted everyday and something about spending time outdoors helps me appreciate the things I often forget about in my day-to-day life. When I am outdoors I feel completely disconnected from the world, receive peace of mind and feel closer to God than I do in church.


I hope one day I have this little house that is surrounded by trees and near a lake. The house would have this huge wrap around porch with a swing and comfy seating. There would also be a reading room off the back of the house. The room would basically be nothing but windows and all of my books. This would be a place I could go to reflect, think, write and read.


I think my biggest fear in life is that I am not doing what I am called to do. Don't get me wrong I have huge career goals and I enjoy what I do. But I often ask myself how am I serving God each and every day throughout my life? Society requires a lot and sometimes I wonder am I doing what I have to do or what I am supposed to do?


When I was young I had all these plans for my life and I wanted to experience so many things. Now that I am grown up, I keep asking myself when will I do all of these things I have dreamt about for years, the things that God is calling me to do. Time goes by so fast and the answer I keep receiving is the time to start is now.

Let me simply say...I am a dreamer.

A Foot of Knowledge on 12

In honor of 2012, here are a few interesting and random facts about the number 12:

1. The number twelve is attached with beliefs of mystery and authority.

2. Time is measured in two groups of twelve hours. While 12 noon is the descent of the Sun, 12 midnight is the ascent marketing the turn of events as well.

3. The significance of the number 12 in the Bible is reflected by the twelve Apostles, twelve fruits of the Spirit, twelve tribes of Israel and twelve gates.

4. There are 12 days of Christmas.

5. The number 12 is found 189 times total in the Bible.

6. Number 12 signifies governmental perfection. A jury is usually made of 12 jurors.

7. There are 12 months in a year.

8. The number 12 is the perfect number, the result of  4 (corners of the horizon) x 3 (Trinity)

9. Twelve people have walked on the Earth's moon.

10. In astrology there are 12 signs in the Zodiac representing basic personality types of characteristic models of expression.

11. There are 12 pairs of ribs in the human body.

12. There are 12 dialing keys on a telephone including 0 and hash.

A Year at a Glance to New Beginnings

This blog was originally started for a class project which I neglected immediately upon completion of the course. However, it's a new year and along with that brings new beginnings, so why not start blogging again? We'll see how long it lasts...

Before I make my new 2012 goals, I want to reflect upon my accomplishments in 2011.

First and foremost, I graduated from college. I somehow managed to finish my degree in four years despite transferring, major changes and countless hours in my advisor's office. Its crazy looking back because it seems like I just graduated from high school yesterday, at that time 2011 felt like light years away. Little did I know at the time that those four years would be the best and quickest years of my life. To say the least, graduation day was bitter sweet.

I am now an employed college graduate working in the real world. How did I become a grown up so fast? Somedays I wish I could step inside the Delorean and take a trip back to the days of playing in the sand box. However, I am truly blessed and thankful for all of the amazing things that happened in my life in 2011. Two months after graduation I found my dream job as an Account Manager at Ilfusion, a creative marketing firm. I am so blessed to have the opportunity to work with such an amazing team that brings joy to my life every day. People always say, "Find a job you're passionate about and you will never work a day in your life."

Culture intrigues me and I have always had the desire to travel more. In general, just to see unique places and experience new things. Growing up most of my family vacations consisted of trips to the beach, either Florida or cruises. Don't get me wrong, those trips were awesome, but there is so much more in this world to see besides the beach. So this year I took my first business trip to California and then took a trip to Chicago to see my best friend from college. Both places I have never been before and I had a blast. Chicago was a bit too cold for me, but I could definitely see myself living in California in the future.

As for 2012, I have no idea what this year will bring...I guess that's the beauty of life. It is such a relief to know that God has a plan for my life because I am completely clueless. Without further ado, here are my goals for 2012:

1. Learn how to cook amazing food - I believe a cooking class is next on my todo list.
2. Read more - Reading is a passion of mine but during school I just didn't have the time.
3. Get my own place - Still living with my parents to save money and pay off school loans but at some point you have to leave the nest and spread your wings.
4. Write more - Hence revisiting my neglected blog. I love writing and so glad I no longer have to spend my time writing research papers.
5. Volunteer - There is nothing more rewarding than giving back to the community. One of the many things I miss about college is my involvement in community service.

That's all I have got for now. Most importantly and above all else I hope to continue to strengthen my relationship with God, family and friends, love unconditionally and serve the world.

Let me simply say... I am excited about what is to come!