The Mississippi Chapter of Life

2011-11-17T14:14:00.001-06:00

Stationery card

View the entire collection of cards.

Christmas Card

2011-10-26T11:01:00.002-05:00

So now that I have started a new life that consists of living with a boy it is time that we start our own Christmas traditions. We had basically the same Christmas traditions growing up but it is now time to create our own for us. We are excited to start it off right this season.

One thing that is a must this year is to send out Christmas Cards . It is a very difficult decision to decide between this one , that one , or maybe even this one .

Be checking your mailboxes during the Christmas season!! Married life is great and we can't wait to share some pictures of what we have been up to this Christmas season!

Tennis

2011-04-14T12:31:00.002-05:00

There was one sport growing up that as a child of David Farnsworth we were required to learn to play. That sport was tennis. I always remember enjoying my tennis lessons growing up but I always wanted to be really good and be able to volley back and forth for a while. When I started I was just small little girl weighing in at no more than one-hundred pounds (because let's face it I never reached the one-hundred mark until I was teenager) so I am sure that muscle development factored into my arching lobes and inaccurate ball placement. Even today I still have those occasional lobes and my ball placement is hardly ever where I want it.

Last summer I picked up the game again. I met my friend, Sheri and she introduced me to a nice group of fun ladies in Starkville that I enjoy getting to hit some tennis balls with about twice a week. While I may have only won a few matches it is the competition, sweat, and hard work that I enjoy. Today my legs are sore from a match that I had last night. But there is just something that I love about getting out on the courts and hitting that little yellow ball as hard as I can (I realize that makes me sound violent but I am not). It is just a good way to clear my mind and have a little fun!

One day soon I am sure that I will have to return my borrowed racket from sister Helen. She keeps asking when she is going to get it back. But for now I will keep it and keep playing this sport that was once mandatory but now is played for fun!

I Am Going to Live with a Boy!

2011-03-26T08:56:00.003-05:00

So I guess that I should start at the very beginning. Buckle your seat belt.

It all started last summer in the parking lot of the Barnes and Noble Bookstore in Starkville. I was meeting my friend Katherine to pick up a present for another one of our friends wedding showers. About ten minutes after I left I got a text message from Katherine asking if I would be willing to be set up on a blind date. I was very hesitant at the time and thinking that it was not the greatest idea. I gave some excuse how school and work were really busy and I just did not have time for anything else in my schedule at the time. So Katherine waits. Talks with me about it again. I think that I was little more open to the idea at that time but still thinking that maybe I should not go and thinking there is no way that this was going actually going to work. I think that I kinda agreed to something but I can't really remember. Well she calls a third time and I agree to meet for "happy hour" after work one night. Katherine says that she and Jarrod will come too so that it won't be awkward. I think well I don't have anything to loose -- why not, right? Many of my long time Starkville friends had moved in the past six months so I was up for making a new friend (thinking that it would just be that, a friend).

It was a Wednesday afternoon on a hot July day. We all met at Bin 612 for drinks. That was the plan... only drinks. I first lay eyes on this boy and awkwardly introduce myself across the fence; we shake hands and he stands until I am seated (secretly impressed by his gentleman acts immediately). I order some white wine and thus begins the conversation. We chat about being from Sylacauga, my favorite university Auburn, life in the real world and I can't really remember what else. I am sure that we talked something about politics... oh yes, we compared notes from our summers in DC. Drinks were going so well that we ended up staying for dinner. Conversation was flowing and I think that it was like four hours later when it was time to leave. He walks me to my car and awkwardly asks for my number (it was awkward because he could not get his iPhone to work). So I give him my number and I leave town for a week the next day. I knew that he would call but I had no idea when.

So the next week I get a phone call from a random 601 number... it was The Boy. He asks me to dinner the next day. Our dinner date at Anthony's lasted 3-4 hours too. He drank white wine because that is what I wanted and he hates white wine (come to find out later). It was a pretty good first date.

Remember me blogging about Cooking School? Yes, he won my heart with some cooking in the Delta of Mississippi.

I think that it is about time that I get to the engagement :) If you had asked me on Sunday afternoon if I thought that Lee had talked with my Dad I would have told you no way. I was convinced that he had not talked to him because when would he have? I just did not see a time or place where they could have met. And I knew that he had not bought a ring. I knew that he had looked at some but I thought that he was just trying to get educated on diamonds because I knew nothing about diamonds. So I really would have made a large bet with you if you had made an offer.

We had spent the weekend in Memphis with some friends. It was a really chill and fun weekend. On the way home Lee handed me a book that we had been going through together. It has 101 questions to ask and I always knew that we would be finished with the book before we got engaged. We were close to the end and Lee insisted that we finish it before we got home. I just thought that he was ready to finish the book because had spent three months working through it. So we finish the book and I ask so when are you going to propose. I was completely kidding (and he knew it) because I was convinced that he had some business to tend to (i.e. purchasing a ring but more importantly talking Dad) and his response was "today". I started laughing and told him to get to work then.

We pull up at my house and things are as normal as they can be. We unload my stuff and walk into the house. I notice a package from Mom sitting in the foyer, see that my roommates made a mess in the living and I was a little frustrated with that so I just start walking to my room. Lee asks were are you going and I responded to my room he says don't you want to look at the stuff in the living. I was thinking no not really because it's not my stuff and I left that room clean and now it is dirty. He drops his stuff and walks into the living room and I decide to follow.

When I walk in I notice that there are pictures of us and a screen printed picture of the Auburn and MS State University seals over lapping on the coffee table (INSERT BACKGROUND: it is Auburn tradition to not walk on the seal because you will either not marry an Auburn grad and/or your children will not go to Auburn; Lee knew the background and had said numerous times that if/when he proposed that he was going to do it on the seal and I told him that he would have to find another girl then). So when I saw that I realized what was going on and I whip around and ask what are you doing? And that point he is down on a knee and I sit down next to him because I am so shocked. Somehow I get out a yes before the tears come.

We then proceeded to call parents and friends. And then our sweet Starkville friends brought over champagne, strawberries, and dinner. For the rest of the night we got to spend it with friends and just rejoicing the fun event!

To fill in some gaps... Lee met my dad in Tuscaloosa the same day that I met my dad in Tuscaloosa. Lee told me that he was headed there for work (which was not completely out of the ordinary because he does some work with UAT). I guess that he showed up at work for about five minutes before he spent the next four hours getting drilled with questions by my dad. It was at that lunch meeting that my dad gave Lee my grandmothers diamond that was used in her engagement ring and told Lee that he would be honored if he used it but to not feel any pressure. He bought the ring the weekend that I went with my friends Karis and Sheri to Gulfport for Mardi Gras (more on that to come later). He told me that he and Drew needed to go home because Drew had left some stuff that he would need for job interviews (I completely bought it). Not only did he go home but he went to New Orleans to do some purchasing.

So there you have it. Our engagement story :) Save the date for October 8, 2011!!!

Day of Birth

2011-02-14T16:01:00.002-06:00

I mean I complained for weeks about getting older on Feb 13 and then my mom goes and tells someone that I was turning 25. So I guess that either means a) I act younger than I am b) my mother is getting old and can't remember how old her children are. I will let you decide your spin on that situation.

What did I do to celebrate you may ask? Well, it was a long and awful week at work. I already had the attitude of it's just another year we don't have to do something that exciting. As you can imagine after a long stressful/exhausting week at work the last thing I wanted to do was celebrate. Well, Lee and my parents convinced me that I should keep my original plans and go to Sylacauga/Auburn for the weekend. So I picked myself out of bed on Friday morning and packed my clothes to head out of town. Lee picked me up and he drove the entire weekend. I did not pay for gas or anything.

We made our way to Birmingham to do a little shopping for The Boy, spent time with Anna Lucy and ate some good eats. Saturday morning we left for the beloved Plains. Ate lunch with Andrew, Elizabeth and Wilson. Walked around downtown, drank Toomer's Lemonade, chatted on the bench in the Quad and enjoyed nachos at Mamma G's. Pretty perfect day. Went to the Auburn vs MSU basketball game in which my Tigers won! Yes, that is their second SEC win and it came against none other than the Dawgs. I was happy; The Boy was sad. Dinner was disaster that the blog world doesn't deserve to remember because my favorite restaurant had a 90 minute wait at 9pm at night.

Sunday (my actual birthday) Dad had a stomach virus. I use to always be sick on my birthday. Mom made a delicious lunch. As you might remember my birthday present was the trip to Arizona which yes it is still worth it but they also surprised me with an electric sander that I had wanted. I can't wait to see what my next project will be.

So there you have it.... birthday 2011 and 26 years of living! Here's to the next 26!

Bowl Games Round 2

2011-01-25T14:52:00.004-06:00

National Championship Game. War Eagle.

Let me first say that no one unless you have graudated or attended Auburn University will you honestly be able to enjoy winning the National Championship like I did. I have to admit that in my short 25 years of life that it might be one of the most enjoyable, exciting, and memorable days I have ever had. (Granted I realize that I have yet to get married or birth any babies and I do hope that those days trump this day but this day will always be close in comparison).

Thankfully we had decided to fly from Mobile (because we had a wedding there the night before). Due to all the weather issues that north Alabama and Atlanta were having I was thankful that we had a smooth flight(s). Due to flying through Denver we were able to see Leslie and give one my best friends a hearty War Eagle en route to Phoenix.

We arrived early to find a sea of orange and blue. So many Auburn fans. I would walk aways and see people I knew and chat then continue on. I mean between two Auburn grads and one Auburn student I was surprised to realize that we saw so many people that we knew. But who am I kidding? This is the Auburn family. We tailgated with friends, attended organized tailgates by the Fiesta Bowl and just walked around to see the sights. All day I was surprisely calm and ready for the game to start. I guess that I just had a feeling that we would win. I don't know why.

Well game time hits. I start literally freaking out. I am a nervous wreck. I am screaming all the cheers, singing the fight song at the top of my lungs. I am surprised that I did not loose my voice before the game even started. All during the game I am nervou, can't sit still, up, down, talking to whoever will listen. So they tie the game up with oh two minutes left. I have to run to the bathroom because a) if we win I will wet my pants b) I am not sure I want to see the rest of this. So I take off running; literally running. I miss maybe one play and I am back. I see the run by Dyer. Start freaking out that we might actually win this thing. Then I pray for Wes Byrum's mother because I don't think that I could be her. I freak out when Cam tries to run because he could loose that football. Then Wes comes out. I am thinking you can do this. He has done this numerous times no big deal -- just the National Championship on the line this time. Think oh yes I already admitted that I would hate to be his mother right now. Dad and I look at each other and say well here goes. All I look for is for the refs arms go up. They do. I process that means a) we win b) game is over c) we are the National Champions.

Pure excitement. Pure joy. Tears of excitment. Amazement. War Eagle. Singing. Yelling. High fiving everyone in the section. Hugs all around. Yes, we won!

War Eagle!

Round 1 of Bowl Games 2011

2011-01-19T11:38:00.006-06:00

Gator Bowl.

It was the first of my two bowl games for the 2010 post season in college football. Once one starts dating a graduate of another university there are just somethings that you have to learn to deal with. It is a good thing that I do love football and I am typically always up for going to a game. In this case it provided me an opprotunity to travel about 11 hours to the east to visit Jacksonville, FL.

Lee and I headed out before the sun was up on Thursday morning to meet our travel buddies, Justin and Kelly. We traveled old-school style with the men upfront and girls in the back. It was a lot of fun to have a car full of people to drive with. We laughed a lot, Kelly and I played back seat driver a little too much, and Justin was always willing to toss out a comment that would send me laughing.

Friday we enjoyed a day at St. Augustine. The weather was beautiful and warm :) Then I experienced my fist shopping experience with a boy. Coming from a family with all girls I have never had a need to shop for boys. Well, this boy is picky (not a bad thing) and I got a tutorial in shopping for males. We rang in the New Year by celebrating at the MSU Dawg Pound Party. Lots of music, friends, dancing and a few drinks is what filled our night.

Saturday brought the reason that we had traveled so far. I learned that Michigan fans are similar to Alabama fans: think that they are better than anyone else and have a right to win because they have such a rich history in college athletes. Well, MS State introduced them to the new version of college athletics and sent them into a panic (so much so that they fired their coach). I always (unless it is Alabama) enjoy seeing an SEC team prevail in bowl season. MS State not only prevailed they dominated. Yes, the Dawgs routed Michigan 52-14.

Sunday meant that it was time to return to Mississippi. I slept most of the way to Birmingham. It was good to be home and rest up before I started bowl game round 2....

A Fab4 Engagement

2010-12-28T14:40:00.004-06:00

The oldest member of the Fab4 became engaged over the Christmas holiday! What a wonderful phone call it was to receive. Sarah Marie met this boy at the annual Peachtree House Christmas party in 2009. Little did she know that the tall dark haired boy that sported glasses would one day propose to her. Their first few dates were in Jackson when the water pipes had bust so while they dined at elegant places around the Capital City they were served on paper plates with plastic utensils. (I just think that is so unique).

I realized that this might be going somewhere when I had a phone chat with Sarah Maire. We had been playing phone tag for a few days and she was just awful at returning my calls. Finally (yes, finally) she returned my phone call. We have never been the best phone chatters but this particular phone conversation lasted over 45 minutes because all SMarie could do was gush over the things that this boy was doing for her. She said that they talked almost nightly and it was for at least an hour each night; which if you know anything about SMarie you realize that is a long time for her to be on the phone everyday. So I knew that there was something special.

I had the pleasure of meeting this gentleman in Jackson several weeks later. In many ways I feel like he has been around for a while. It was fun to finally put a face with the name and learn a little about his personality. We chatted for a long while about our love for sports ... yes, he does love "The School Up North" and he doesn't hate the Auburn Tigers (which is ultimately important) I think that I can approve.

I could not be more thrilled for Sarah Marie and Alan! So, I welcome the first "in-law" to the Fab4!

It Was a White Christmas!

2010-12-27T14:38:00.002-06:00

Believe it or not but Alabama experienced a White Christmas this year! We woke up to it snowing but not sticking to the ground but within a couple of hours it started sticking around. We allowed a little of the snow to accumulate before we went to play in it. Trust me I got hit with numerous snowballs by none other than my Dad. Sadly, all the pictures were taken with my parents camera despite the fact that I got a new camera. I will try to snag some photos from him soon.

Now I am experiencing a short week at work to prepare for my first of two bowl games. I am leaving for Jacksonville on Thursday.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T11:11:00.003-06:00

Good morning my faithful readers! Merry Christmas to each of you :) I am about to leave work and begin the drive to Alabama for the (short) holiday weekend. I will spending Christmas with some of these people below. I hope that each of you enjoy the time off and time with your family! Merry Merry Christmas!

Under the Christmas Tree

2010-12-23T09:58:00.003-06:00

Last night The Boy and I exchanged Christmas presents. Like always he always goes over the top and leaves me speechless. Last night was no expection. After a yummy dinner we went back to his house to unwrap presents and to watch Christmas Vacation (somehow I have gone all these years and never seen the full movie). I don't really have much to say other than, "wow!" So here it is...

Christmas Presents

2010-12-21T11:28:00.002-06:00

Ok, I am doing some playing around with the design of the blog .... if you are good at design and want to do something fun with it please let me know! I just don't understand exactly how it all works.

Christmas is in fact 4 days away. As a little child I was the one that would pick up, shake and even try to peak at the presents. Sometimes I was rather good at guessing while more times than not I failed. For the past few years I have not been home for many days before Christmas so I have not taken the time to search for my presents and see the size of the box, etc to try to guess what it may hold. While I am not at home this year there is a present for me at The Boy's house under his tree. I am very perplexed as to what this is. He won't let me pick it up or even touch it (booooo). But it's a big box. He claims that I have never asked for it before; although I am not sure that is entirely true. So I am just plain stumped if he is that good and was able to buy me something that I have never asked for. I guess that tomorrow I will figure out what that box holds.

I have completed my Christmas shopping and even wrapped my last few presents this morning BEFORE work! So once work is over on Christmas Eve I can start celebrating! (Although Santa has already come it will still be fun to watch Mary Emily open ALL of her presents!)

Stocking Stuffed

2010-12-16T11:31:00.003-06:00

On December 4, 2010 I asked Santa to stuff my stocking with a ticket to the National Championship football game in Glendale, AZ where my beloved Auburn Tigers would be playing the Oregon Ducks on January 10, 2011. I called Santa on the phone (yes, I do have a direct line to Santa so don't be jealous) that night and there was laughter at the other end. No promises were made but I stated my case very clearly: all I wanted was 1 ticket to the game and a place to lay my head at night (I even offered to cover the airfare to get there). I hung up the phone to begin the wishing. I would stalk with Internet daily for flights, hotel deals, and even ticket prices but there was just no way that I could afford it all. So I started to think of backup plans and trying to talk myself into the idea that they would be just as grand. For I knew few things surrounding that day: I would not be in the state of Mississippi watching the game (I would not handle listening to disgruntled MSU fans about the fact that we do have Cam Newton on our team), that I would surround myself with family or college friends and that I would prefer to watch the game in Auburn if possible. Well, all of those backup plans were tossed out the window recently. I am going to Arizona! Santa said now you have been a very good girl but this will also count as your birthday, Valentine's Day, Easter, Graduation, Halloween, etc presents. None of that mattered to me... There was flight booked, hotel reservations made, car rented and a ticket in hand. I was in fact going to see my Tigers play one more game this magical season!

BCS Got It Right .... This Time

2010-12-13T14:06:00.004-06:00

The year was 2004 and Auburn had just completed a perfect football season. I was a sophomore at Auburn at the time. I remember belting at the top of course voice in Byrant-Denny Stadium, "Hey Alabama! We just beat the hell outta you!" It was a glorious moment. Then my sister and I traveled to the SEC Championship game. We tossed oranges on the field afterwards and a guy carried a sign that read "FedEx me to Miami". Instead we ended that perfect season in NOLA at the Sugar Bowl. Still a dream season and I honestly did not know if I would see that happen again.

Fast forward 6 years ... here we are 2010. Auburn in undeafeted and this time we are playing for the National Championship! My college days are gone but I am still an avid fan and might be a little more ridiculous now that I am gone. Only this time around we have a Heisman Trophy winner and we are going the big game! I will admit this football season has been awful on the blood pressure... one moment we are fine the next I am about to jump out of my skin. But through it all the Tigers have answered every point the other team has scored. My only hope is that this will continue into 2011 (esp on Jan 10)!

It has been a fun season! I hope that it continues!

Say Cheese! Time to take the Christmas Card Picture!

2010-12-02T11:28:00.004-06:00

Growing up it was one of the most dreaded photo shoots of the year for the Farnsworth family. If you know my Dad at all (I do love him!) then you will realize that he loves taking pictures and being in charge of the photo shoot. But there was hardly ever a year when there was not a fight about taking the Christmas card picture. Maybe we have grown up in the years or maybe we have not because there is still that someone (and, yes, it is sometimes me) that will blurt out that we have a better way of doing things. But if you are friends with my parents you will receive a Christmas card from this year I am sure!

But let's talk about a Christmas card picture that we actually had fun making! It was the members of the White House. We used Shutterly.com to create the perfect card that symbolizes us! http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-photo-cards?sortType=1&pageNumber=2&DCL=true
or
http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery I am not going to reveal which creative design we used just yet because I want to leave you anticipating that in your mailbox. I will admit that we had a great photographer that made out photo session all the more fun. We chose to use Shutterfly because all the unique and personalized designs that we were able to choose from!

Another tradition that we have going in the Farnsworth household is yearly calendars. http://www.shutterfly.com/calendars My aunt started this a few years ago and they continue to be a favorite. I feel like every present my dad picks up he asks, "is this the present that we all need to open together?" -- meaning is this the calendar? Once the calendar is finally opened everyone spends the next while looking and commenting on the cute pictures and memories of the past year.

It's a tradition of Christmast that will continue on for some time ... we did it as roommates and I hope to make Christmas cards with my family one!

Class = Over!!!

2010-11-19T12:18:00.001-06:00

Yup, I survived. I made it through my last class, test and final!!! I am done :) Now onto the thesis work.... Any one good a writing papers?

And I would like to thank my friends who celebrated with me last night at The Veranda! Fun times and good for the soul!

A Royal Wedding!

2010-11-17T08:42:00.003-06:00

I have always enjoyed learning about the Royal Family and now it is time for a Royal wedding. I secretly, well not too secretly, have always thought that it would be fun to live the life of a Royal for a few weeks or so. Now Prince William is about to get married! Yes, I will be one of those silly American girls that gets up at the crack of dawn in the US to watch the wedding (if it is televised).

And look at that rock on Kate's hand! Wow.... I mean it was Diana's which is sweet but also a little weird.

The Grove Experience

2010-11-02T12:18:00.004-05:00

Yes, I have been to Oxford before so this is my third experience of The Grove. While I will never claim to be an Ole Miss fan there are somethings that just make each football experience unique. And if you have never been to The Grove then I think that you need to go. It is an experience like none other. Would I want that to be my tailgating experiencing each week? Probably not but that is for me to decide and not to cast judgement on those that want that to be their tailgating experience.

I took two unsecpecting Grove freshman with me (Karis and Lindsey). They were troopers and even pleased their guide by wearing a little orange. We attended Tiger Walk and saw that Cam Newton had just as much security as Gene Chizik. Although we were too far away to high five any of them there is just something about being in the crowd that is yelling the Auburn cheers that I love so much.

I got to see many Auburn friends. Daniel/Cabray (DanBray), Sarah Marie, Laura Jane, Glenna and Byrne are just a few of the names that will dropped today. It was fun to see faces that I had not seen in a while and ones that I did not expect to see! So for me it was just what I needed... a little piece of my past to make me love the present all that much more!

It was a great road win for my Tigers. We have improved to 9-0 (but you don't need me telling you that when you have ESPN).

It's a Big Weekend!

2010-10-21T16:17:00.001-05:00

This time tomorrow we will be pulling into one of my favorite places in the souteast: Auburn, Alabama! It is a HUGE weekend, Auburn (#4) vs LSU (#6). And not to mention many of my best friends from college and I are all staying under one roof! Let's get this party started!! And, War Cam Eagle!

Happy Birthday Karis: Cooking School Birthday Party!

2010-10-21T14:21:00.002-05:00

Last Friday night we celebrated my dear roommates birthday. We had a blast might be the best way to summarize the evening. Lindsey and I started planning this event a couple of weeks ago and I might have to admit that I had just as much fun planning it as I did preparing the food. (We got this idea because The Boy took me to Viking School a couple of months ago ... so we just created our own rendition) The menu included:

Butternut Squash Risotto
Cornbread, Sausage, and Apple Stuffed Chicken Bundles
Fall Harvest Green Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette
Sweet Potato Biscuits
Mocha Espresso Mousse
... and many concoctions of martinis

There was more laughing out of the White House on East Lee than one has ever experienced. The kitchen was busting at the seems too. We were very detailed with our instructions and split everyone into teams so that the food would be ready about the same time! Oh, I can't even explain to you how good the food was. It was a really fun night! Maybe we will get to do it again!

Auburn Came to Starkville

2010-09-29T10:18:00.004-05:00

It is an event that only happens every other year. Many times I feel that I am out of my element when it comes to college football in Starkville, MS. I have grown to appreciate many things about Mississippi State football but it will never (ever) win my heart like the Auburn Tigers did twenty-something years ago. It was two years ago when I experienced my first Auburn-MS State game as a Starkville resident. I never thought that I would still be living in this town two years later but here I am! Two years ago brought many friends to town and Bulldog Bash. It was a blast showing all of these friends my new found home and then sharing in an awful 3-2 victory by my Tigers.

Now it is two years later. This game was on a Thursday night so only sister Helen and Mom and Dad came to town. We tailgated with some Auburn faithful, dropped by the Columbia, MS tailgate (for introductions) and spent time with my second family (the Allisons) in Starkville. As you can see from the pictures it was a hot day and lots of sweating (but that has to be football in September).

After a near heart break in the 4th quarter I was glad to see my Tigers pull out a win on the road. It was a loud environment (one in which the cowbells were not rang respectively). I am so grateful for Cam Newton because Auburn would be in trouble without his contributions this fall.

Here are some pictures from that Thursday. War Eagle!

It It Here!

2010-08-30T16:10:00.002-05:00

War Eagle! That is my battle cry all year long but it gets really loud come fall. In less than one week Jordan-Hare Stadium will be packed out and Auburn will take the field to start off the 2010 season! I get goose bumps just thinking about it. There is just something that I love about Auburn football and that will always be apart of me. My dad instilled this love at a very young age and it has only grown stronger over the years. So let the season begin! And hopefully there will be many chances to roll Toomer's Corner!

School on Saturday?

2010-08-24T09:49:00.002-05:00

Yes, I think so! This was no ordinary school; it was Viking Cooking School. I had read about it many times and thought wow that would be so much to attend but I never really thought that I would actually go. It has been written up in many different publications and being in the nutrition world I had met other people that had gone. No one had ever come back disappointed from what I had heard.

Well I am here to tell you that cooking school was everything and more than I expected. I could have spent $100s in the cooking store attached to the kitchen. Every appliance and kitchen gadget I picked up was perfect. (and they come in basically every color... I think that colorful kitchen gadget such as spatulas, knives, cutting boards, etc are a must!) We got to cook on Viking cooking ranges (gas just cooks so much better) and use the most amazing pots and pans. Basically I could go on and on about all the fun gadgets that I got to use.

What was on the menu I am sure you are wondering.

Lamp Chop "Lollipops" on Baby Spinach Salad
Lobster and Wild Mushroom Risotto
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Individual Tiramisu Trifle
Petite Cheese Course

All of it tasted amazing. I loved that our instructors were careful to provide instruction but also let us experiment. From pulling the lobster meat out of the tail to cutting the lamb off the rack it was all an experience. It was a wonderful feast when we sat down to enjoy a night of hard work!

I would love to go back and I recommend that if you have ever had the desire to go because it will not be a disappointment.

Last First Day of School (Ever??)

2010-08-19T14:56:00.002-05:00

Tonight I will go sit in my Exercise Biochemistry class. This is the last class that I have to take to finish my Masters in Nutrition. Yes, I am very excited that I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. There is still a Thesis hanging over my head but I will worry about that later. Right now I am just celebrating the fact that this is the last class. (I am sure that come 8:30 tonight I will be frustrated that teacher kept us the entire time on the first day.)

But I am celebrating the fact that this is the last time I will probably walk into a class room as a student for the first day of class!

Quarter Life Mark and Interns

2010-08-13T13:08:00.002-05:00

Today is my 25.5 birthday. Has it really been six months since my 25th birthday? Oh snap, yes it has. I will admit that being twenty-five is not all bad. It's been a fun year thus far. I guess that this officially means that I am now closer to 30 than 20. Oh how I remember by 20th birthday ... Riverboat in Memphis for Farmhouse Formal. I really remember thinking it was all down hill from there but really it has only gotten better.

Today I was introduced to my second group of Dietetic Interns. This time last year I was scared to death (maybe I still am). The positive thing this go round is that I am credentialed and all official. Maybe they will learn a thing or two from me... or they may leave more confused than ever! It will be a fun fall for sure!

Gainfully Employed!!

2010-08-11T08:52:00.004-05:00

Congratulations to Jane Gray on getting a job! I am so excited that the Lord has provided in this way. She was so diligent all summer studying for boards and then selectively applied for jobs that were of interest to her. I am so excited that she will start treating patients in the field of dietetics. Welcome to the real world Jane Gray!

Haircut

2010-08-09T11:27:00.003-05:00

It is an attraction that is well documented if you know me well. Tim Tebow has been my one constant crush for the past three or so years. He received this "awesome" haircut over the weekend. I mean I understand the ritual behind it and I am sure that he got the "best" haircut due to his celebrity status.

I do think that it is an awful haircut. I think that he should just shave his head. But I guess that may be going against tradition. I am hopeful that his hair will return to normal soon! So Tim please do something else with you hair. I still think you are hot but we must do some minor adjustments!

Spray Paint

2010-08-02T12:45:00.003-05:00

Who knew that a cheap $3 can of spray paint could do so much? I am having lots of fun with it right now. In the past week I feel like I have become a spray painting expert. My list continues to grow of the things that I have improved around our house with just a can of spray paint. I have also introduced my friend Lindsey to such a great tool!

Last weekend I painted the chairs for our front patio. This past weekend Lindsey and I painted her desk and two bookcases. It is just so much fun and provides a new chapter of life to old things!

Tis the Summer of College Roommates Getting Married: Laura Allyson

2010-07-28T08:45:00.006-05:00

It all started in the lobby of Graves Hall as we were waiting to go to one of our first Alpha Gamma Delta new member meetings. I was in need a black suit for my upcoming Freshman Forum final interview. Laura Allyson looked to be a girl that was about my size and I thought that it would be perfectly normal to ask a girl that was at that point was basically a complete stranger if she had a suit that I could borrow. Well she did! That was just the beginning of our friendship.

We were two girls that lived on "The Hill" which is not necessarily the ideal location that most Auburn freshman girls like to live; but we enjoyed having each other so close. Freshman year we walked almost daily on the ~4 mile loop around campus. Through these walks we began to share our history and grow together through the fun college times.

The next year we moved to the Alpha Gam dorm. Lived across the hall from each other in the cubby. We saw each other walk through some difficult struggles in college but also were there laughs and fun times. Our junior year we once again lived in the Alpha Gam dorm this time as roommates. We enjoyed our green tea every morning, watching soap opera's over lunch and Dr. Phil in the afternoon. We both studied like there was no tomorrow for our intense chemistry loads that year. She was accepted in Pharmacy school and I changed my major to Nutrition. By these two moves we both knew that we would be staying in Auburn an extra year.

Our dream of living on Gay Street came true the next year. We had houses across the street from each other. Continued our walks although they were rather inconsistent due to our stressful work loads.

Then she started dating this boy from Mississippi. I will admit that at first I was skeptical because who is ever from Mississippi? (I laugh now because I am an official MS resident) But the boy grew on me and I could not help but love his baby face. I remember her telling me that this was the boy she was going to marry one day. I could tell immediately that Laura Allyson was just crazy about this Mississippi boy; and he was quite crazy about her.

So a couple of months ago LA married that boy. It was the wedding she had always dreamed about... Her dad married them, reception at the Stewart Field Mansion on the campus of Spring Hill College, nice little band in the back yard and food that was oh so delicious.

Glad that I could be apart of the celebration! Can't wait to visit my pharmacist friend and the hubby in Troy!

Starkville: A Transitional Place

2010-07-26T15:52:00.006-05:00

The summer time always brings the good and bad in a place like Starkville, MS. It means that dear friends are moving onto the next chapter life but there always new friends waiting to be made. I guess that this is my first summer to really feel the pains of Starkville. Over the last 8 weeks I have seen many dear friends leave this dear little town. First is the was the Akins and Donald (read previous post) and now it is Jane Gray/Allan and Mary. JG and Allan hit the road hard and win the prize for moving the furthest ... California! Mary started her big girl job today in Memphis.

In a way I can't believe that both Mary and Jane Gray were my interns last year. They seemed more like great friends not my students. It was through the world of nutrition that I was able to meet these girls and now we are all working (well, JG will be soon) in a field that we love.

Over the last 48 hours I have wanted to text them and ask if they wanted to go for a walk or grab coffee and then I remember that they are no longer Starkville residents. It makes me sad to realize that they are gone but I am excited to see each of them flourish in their new home. And I will be visiting before too long but always know that I have room to welcome you back to Starkville for a weekend.

Auburn Reunion: Jackson, MS Style

2010-07-26T15:42:00.006-05:00

A couple of weekends ago I went to Jackson to meet up with what I consider to be some of my best friends from college/friends that I will have for the rest of my life. I never knew when we first met what these girls would bring to my life. But they have changed it in ways that are unexplainable. Sarah Marie and I both live in Mississippi and Leslie in Nashville.

Going to Jackson is always a highlight because I feel like I am going to the big city. I drove down early Saturday morning just in time for breakfast at my favorite local Jackson spot, Broadstreet. Then they graciously allowed this small town girl the joys of a Target run. The rest of the afternoon was sat around talking, eating cucumber dip and drinking some spiked lemonade. It was the perfect afternoon.

Then the boy (SMarie's boy) decided to join in on the fun. I am sure that he was overwhelmed by us but he handled it with ease. We approved of him. The rest of the weekend basically included lots of good food (Julip and Berry Berry Yogurt). It was difficult to return to reality that Monday morning but I always know that there will be another visit soon.

North Carolina Roadtrip

2010-07-26T12:10:00.006-05:00

I am considering North Carolina as my next home. I mean there is nothing not to love. As we were driving into the state I was speechless with the mountains, beauty and everything else. Why on earth am I not living there now? Ok, I realize that there is much business to be taken care of here in Mississippi (I am loving Starkville at the moment; more to come on that -- there is a new house!). But getting to experience Winston-Salem with a dear friend, Kate and seeing what she will be doing at Wake Forest in the fall made so excited that she is going to get to live in North Carolina. On the way home we stopped in Charlotte to see the Akins. I have missed them in Starkville and they have only been gone for a matter of weeks. But it was great to see their new neighborhood and get a glimpse of what this chapter of life looks like.

I decided that this North Carolina has it all. My love for the mountains and the beach all in one state?! What more could a girl ask for? Sign me up!

A Dan-Bray Wedding

2010-07-26T10:35:00.010-05:00

It all started three years ago with a simple phone call. Daniel told me that he was interested in dating a girl that I had recently developed a good friendship with named, Cabray. At first I was skeptical because Daniel had a history in the recent months of getting crushes on girls and he would tell me about them. So when he called to tell me about what I considered to just be his latest crush I told him that he better really do some thinking about this one and that at this time I would not "help" him in asking her out. I said think about it for a week and if you are still interested we can talk about it. Well, like clock work, the boy called me back; I was a little surprised honestly. So from there we put a plan into action!

After many (many) months of trying to convince Cabray that she should really give Daniel a chance at more than just a friendship she agreed to a date. I have to give Daniel bonus points because he truly pursued this girl. He can write a book about how to pursue a relationship; his patience is unmatched to anyone I know. I seriously may have to ask the guy that trys to date me to call Daniel to get a few pointers. Daniel has set the bar high. Ok, as things would turn out she would come down with an illness the day of what was to be their first date. I took Cabray to Wal-Mart to buy some medications. Daniel is calling me freaking out that his "perfect" evening will not happen. I am trying to avoid letting Cabray know that I am on the phone with Daniel so I keep running off and coming back. Finally, Danial settles on some pick up food and brings it to Boyd Hall. I am sure that they watched Friends or something like that and ate their take out food.

That was just the beginning of what would turn into a great relationship. As they progressed I stepped more into an onlookers role rather than the one that knew way too much information from both sides. Trust me when they were both telling me their sides of the story it got complicated and I felt like I knew way too much info. They dated until their senior year at Auburn. It was one of those relationships that are fun to see develop. I honestly can't think of two more perfectly matched people. It's like a puzzles --- they fit together so well.

I had the joy of being a bridesmaid in the wedding. We enjoyed a weekend in a Carpet Capital of the World. (aka Dalton, GA). The wedding was worship service of seeing people come together through the vows of marriage. Then we partied until the late night hours. You name the dance song... it was played. I have said it before but Auburn weddings are by far the best weddings to attend. It was great to see friends from all over the country. Weddings bring us together and it was always hard to part. Daniel and Cabray left like I have dreamed to leave my reception.... Everyone shaking an Auburn shaker and singing the fight song!

5th Auburn Grad!

2010-07-01T21:29:00.002-05:00

This is very late getting posted but I figured as long as I had it posted by the time she returned from Africa she might not notice! But back in May, Mary Emily walked across the stage (and might be the last graduating class to walk across the stage a Beard-Eves Memorial) to receive her Auburn diploma. We were a very happy family! I think that dad laughed and said, "I got a pay raise"!

Auburn has meant so much to our family. It is sad to think that in just 3 short years all of our days will be done there. I can speak for our entire family and say that we all learned a lot (not just from an education perspective) during our years there.
We (The Farnsworths) believe in Auburn and love it! Congrats, Mary Em!

Miss Farnsworth and Mr Tebow

2010-06-15T00:19:00.002-05:00

Thats right I got a wedding invitation addressed to Tim and I. Can anyone help me in locating his contact information so that I can send in the RSVP card? Maybe just one day ya'll will get a wedding invitation that has my name it along with his name. Ok, I realize that is a little far out thinking ... but can't a girl dream a little? But forever and always, War Eagle!

It's Not Good Bye but "See You Soon"!

2010-06-02T19:58:00.006-05:00

"See you soon" is a saying that I have uttered frequently lately. I absolutely hate the words "good-bye". If you want honesty on this blog; then you will get. I have been a basket case the last few weeks as Starkville is showing it's true colors of being a very transitional place. I have cried when I think of fun things that I have done with friends over the past 2 years. There is no other way to say it than the past 2 years have been amazing. Better than I thought or imagined. There have been many late nights, dance parties, football/basketball/baseball games, engagements (and even dates, I will admit it), tears and some really good food. These friends have been here since day 1 of my Starkville experience and now, they are gone. I have cried more tears in the last few weeks than I thought possible.

I helped to end their Starkville experience with a night out on the town. We started at City Bagel with dinner, Stromboli's for Cookie Dough Bites and finally at Old Venice for drinks (at a special rate). (See pictures from the night!)

I know that this chapter of Starkville life is changing and God will be faithful in the next chapter. But these little blessings (some short and some tall) will always remain dear to my heart. Like I have said ... see you soon (where ever that may be!)

It's Hot In Here!

2010-05-23T21:32:00.003-05:00

The air conditioning in my house is out! Yes, out!!! Basically, it is freaking hot in here. It's the first really hot weekend in Mississippi and my air conditioning does not work. I called my rental office on Saturday morning and they said it would be Monday before they could get over here. Then they "politely" told me to try to turn the air down further to see if it kicks on. I kinda think that they did not believe me when I told them it was not working.

I turned down the AC and left for the afternoon... you figured what happened. Came home and air had gone up 7 degrees. I think that we have a problem. So I called the office back and explained on the answering machine the problem. All I can say is that I hope that they fix it tomorrow! It is entirely too hot in this place!! Too hot! So please, air conditioner come back to me!

Boston

2010-05-22T13:09:00.004-05:00

Sarah Nell and Pete moved to Boston soon after their wedding in July 2008 (yes, that was the summer I did something like 5 weddings in a matter of weeks). I always knew that they would live there long enough for me to make the trip. It just took me a little time to actually have the funds to make the trip. Over Christmas I talked more seriously about the timing of the trip and what we would do. I asked Leslie to join me on this adventure. So on a Friday night I boarded a plane out of Jackson, Miss headed to Boston via Detroit. (Interesting side note, sat next to a dude on the plane from Jackson to Detroit that asked me to dinner on my layover -- I had to break his heart and say no; although I guess it was a nice gesture.) Arrived late but we sat around and drank some wine to celebrate arriving in Boston.

Saturday morning started with brunch and then the tour of the Freedom Trail. Completed the historical stuff (because you can't really do to Boston and not do that) later in the afternoon. Headed to a Kentucky Derby party (yes, I am making plans to attend next year). It was great to meet some of their friends from Boston and get a glimpse of what it is like to live in Boston. Had a blast!

Sunday we went to their church and then had a picnic lunch on Harvard Yard. I was expecting to gain some brain cells from that visit but they must still be developing because I still don't feel any smarter (sad). We shopped along the expensive street (ok, it was just window shopping). Then we went to eat some great Italian food for dinner!

On Monday, Leslie and I enjoyed a breakfast at Appletree. Did I mention that we were in Boston when the water line busted so the whole city was under a boil water notice thus Starbucks (and everywhere else could not make coffee). But we survived. That afternoon I dragged Leslie out to Fenway Park to experience the Boston Red Sox's stadium. We enjoyed a little ballpark tour and then a beer.

It was a great trip and fun to see college friends! Oh where will the next trip to visit friends take me?!

Bean Town

2010-04-28T08:04:00.003-05:00

One of the perks of having a "real job" is that I do gain a little income that can be put towards traveling. It has always been a dream to venture to the northeast so that is exactly what I am doing this weekend. My dear friends, Sarah Nell and Pete are going to graciously host Leslie and I. While it will only be for three days I know that I will gain insight to what life in Boston really looks like.

I will report back with plenty of pictures! Happy hump day to all!

Monday

2010-03-14T21:23:00.002-05:00

I am hoping that Monday will be the best day of my professional career to date. For the last 10+ weeks I have been flying solo in Food and Nutrition. Tomorrow, March 15th my boss will return to the office!!! So this means I will get to return to working on the clinical side of nutrition and dealing with patients. So join with me and singing the hallelujah chorus as I walk through the doors of the hospital tomorrow morning!

Home Again

2010-03-01T09:14:00.001-06:00

What a fun weekend and one that I desperately needed. I am now back to the working world. I just have to share the good news that 2 weeks from today I will get to return to my normal job of clinical dietitian. No more interim department head for me! While the experience has been irreplaceable I am rather excited to get back to the job that I love!

I will post house and trip pictures soon!

Nashville!

2010-02-25T20:37:00.001-06:00

I am going to see this girl in a matter of 24 hours! Nashville ... here I come!!! I feel like it's Christmas Eve! I need to go pack :)

Hymn

2010-02-25T09:51:00.003-06:00

We sang this on Sunday at church and it is possibly my favorite hymn of all time. I am in a weird mood this morning but I just read over the words and I feel that they are so rich.

Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart;
Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art.
Thou my best Thought, by day or by night,
Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light.

Be Thou my Wisdom, and Thou my true Word;
I ever with Thee and Thou with me, Lord;
Thou my great Father, I Thy true son;
Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one.

Be Thou my battle Shield, Sword for the fight;
Be Thou my Dignity, Thou my Delight;
Thou my soul’s Shelter, Thou my high Tower:
Raise Thou me heavenward, O Power of my power.

Riches I heed not, nor man’s empty praise,
Thou mine Inheritance, now and always:
Thou and Thou only, first in my heart,
High King of Heaven, my Treasure Thou art.

High King of Heaven, my victory won,
May I reach Heaven’s joys, O bright Heaven’s Sun!
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
Still be my Vision, O Ruler of all.

Olypmics!

2010-02-12T13:30:00.002-06:00

I love the Olympics. Winter - Summer it does not matter. I just love the competition, the personal stories and the hard work that goes into it competing in the Olympics. So for the next several weeks I will be sitting in front of my tv each night watch the events unfold. I also hate finding out who wins before it happens. So I will be avoiding ESPN for the next few weeks too.

I think that I may have found my dream job .... the Olympic village hires Dietitians to monitor the food and to create diets specifically for athletes. There is always a few on site too at the Olympics. Watch out... I might be applying!

Good-Bye...

2010-01-28T23:08:00.002-06:00

Tomorrow will be my last night as a resident of Cedar Lane. My clothes are packed, drawers cleaned out and everything is mess but that is the sign of moving. Not that I am leaving Starkville just moving about a mile away. I will miss this house. I already miss parts of it. Leanne is off in the big girl world of working for Target. She was the reason that I got to live in this house. There are so many memories here... supper clubs, random dance parties, snuggling on the couch, tears were shed, an engagement happened in our kitchen, some of life's first happened while living here (getting jobs). I took some of my first big girl steps while living here. I will miss the vibrant color (we know that I can't decorate like this). I will be sad to leave. And I will even miss our crazy old neighbors. But I will keep Cedar Lane on my running path!

Update from Mississippi

2009-12-06T14:51:00.007-06:00

I am really struggling on where to start... I have taken such a long vacation that I feel so lost. But I will do my best to update you on the important things of life in Mississippi and the surrounding states.

The trip to Charleston was just as amazing as I had dreamed; maybe even better. There is just something about Charleston I love. We celebrated the upcoming (well at that time) marriage of Jessica (she is now happily married). We ate good food, party hard, did a little shopping and enjoyed fun fellowship. Also, the B92 (radio station) provided the music for many dance moves in the car and around the house. Oh, how I love good dance party music.

I enjoyed seeing Auburn beat up on Ole Miss. Living in Mississippi now allows me to enjoy these moments even more. I had a bet with my boss that if Auburn won he would have to carry around an Auburn shaker and tell everyone War Eagle. He loved the embarrassing moments that it brought as he is a very outspoken Ole Miss fan. And the whole betting idea was his idea. I also got to see Alabama beat Ole Miss. Although I was sitting in the Bama section does not mean I was cheering for the Tide. I was not. I was just a person to help make the stadium look full.

On that day in October when Auburn beat Ole Miss I also got asked to be a bridesmaid. Going to the store to buy another dress is what I am about to do. I mean I kinda needed a spot in this wedding because I practically talked Cabray into going on a date with Daniel. So he kinda owes me a big thank you present. I also attended a rather fabulous Auburn wedding with a great dance party. Yeah, Auburn weddings are my favorite when the right people are involved.

I have recently decided to make it official that I will not marry an Alabama fan. I can marry anyone that is a fan of any other school. I really think that I could even handle UGA or LSU. But some moments over that last few months have made it very clear to me that I will be able to marry an Alabama football fan.

Caroline and I were in a wedding together. We come as a pair so if you are looking for a couple of cute and really fun bridesmaid we can be hired out for a fee. Our nutrition friend, Catie got married. Pretty big deal wedding. Some good food was involved... I mean Catie is a dietitian so you would expect nothing less.

Over Thanksgiving we spent a good bit of time in Auburn. Tailgating is what we do. It was so much fun to spend Thanksgiving with some of my favorite people. Yes, my family is pretty cool and I love them all. But the chance to have the Fab4 together is special. Leslie, SMarie and my family all tailgated together and ate until our hearts were content. The only thing that I was uncontent about was the outcome of the Iron Bowl. Nathan reminded me once during the game that this is why we did not go to games together while in college. I think that I am little too much for him to handle.

Life in Starkville is about to change. Leanne graduates on Friday and will be moving to Jackson. Makes me sad. But I am going to enjoy the last week that we have together.

Thats about all I got for now. I will do a better job of posting!

Marriage Is What Brings Us Together

2009-10-01T15:18:00.002-05:00

Heck no, I am not getting married. Have you lost your mind?!

But my friend Jessica is! So, it's time to celebrate and off I go to Charleston in just a few short hours. The suitcase is packed. The only thing standing in my way is a little more work and class tonight. But I am hitting the road to Bham ASAP after class.

Ready for the weekend!

The Bash

2009-09-29T20:38:00.003-05:00

It is that time of year again in Starkville, Bulldog Bash. The whole Cotton District turns into one big party. Of course I joined in on the fun because I am not going to miss something that exciting. My friends Jany Gray and Allan live in the Cotton District and were nice enough to invite me over to the party. I must admit that it was a grand ol' time! We drank beer, talked and just listened to music all night long. Jeanie and I decided that we should brave the real crowd and go see Third Eye Blind that was the headliner down on the big stage. So we went. But I should mention that Jeanie is pregnant (she is married to a guy named Grey, they already have a sweet daughter named Lucy). Looks like she is 22. So we laughed that this knocked up college kid (she has graduated from college just looks young for her age) and I were walking around the Bash. It was a sight. We left after we got one beer split on us and when people started fighting us for our position on the sidewalk underneath the cross walk sign. It was fun while it lasted but I would rather sit on the porch and listen.

So it was a White Out (wear white to the MSU game). Problem: it is pouring down rain outside. Solution: wear a white shirt and put the green northface over it. Problem: northface will not keep you completely dry. Solution: Ask Jane Gray to borrow a shirt when I randomly showed up at her house. I biked to campus because I thought that it was going to be better than driving. No, I got soaked. Bad decision on the white shirt too. I waited until half-time to go the MSU game. Good decision. We left the guys at the apartment and the girls went on our happy way. Well, it was happy until that goal line stand.

Overall, great weekend! Lots of fun! Can't wait for next weekend.... Charleston!!!

RD, LD

2009-09-23T16:06:00.002-05:00

My social life for the last several months has been lacking in many areas due to the fact that I had to take boards. I started studying in May and continued almost daily until this past Saturday. But the good news is that I passed!!! I cried for joy when I found out. I am sure that the people sitting next to me though that I was crazy. I am sure that I gave my parents a scare when I called crying (but then again maybe they know me well enough to know that I cry easily).

I celebrated by purchasing a new pair of running shoes. I guess now I have to start training for another half (suggestions of ones to run??). I should also say that Sarah Marie helped me celebrate by buying me a cupcake... yes, a Registered Dietitian ate a cupcake to celebrate passing boards. It's all about portion control and I am not willing to give up the things I love!

Thanks for the prayers over the summer! And sorry if I hurt any of your feelings by not telling you when I was taking boards... I wanted to keep it quiet.

Finally!!!

2009-09-07T20:41:00.002-05:00

If you know me at all then you know that there is one thing that I love... college football and especially Auburn football. This Saturday brought a smile to my face because it marked the return of Auburn football and new era at Auburn.

I started off the day tailgating at MSU. This time last year I was still getting settled into the Starkville chapter of life but this past weekend I felt like a local. I bounced around between several tailgates and ran into friends. After watching the Jackson State Sonic Boom band I decided that it was time to leave the game. I walked to my car only to realize that I had been blocked in. Thankfully the Allison's live close they graciously came and picked me up from campus. I watched the Auburn game at their house because ESPN-U does not come with our cable selections. Auburn has many improvements to make but that is expected after any first game!

In 4 days I will be in AUBURN! I could not be more excited! Lets hope that this week goes by really fast!

Interns!

2009-08-17T21:50:00.002-05:00

So I have been meaning to blog for weeks now and I have had plenty to blog about but I just never sit down to do it. I will do better.

So today I freaked out. I had interns start their rotation with me! HOLY CRAP! It was just a year ago that I was in their place and now I am teaching them. Crazy to think what has happened in a years time! But it is really exciting! I will keep you posted on how it goes. Thankfully, I have a great group and I am sure that they will continue to get better with time!

Life Dream

2009-07-05T21:30:00.003-05:00

You might laugh that I have spent a good amount of time this past weekend thinking about this. I guess that it is because this weekend marked a fun weekend in sports that I really enjoy. I have been blessed to attend some pretty amazing sporting events in my life... Olympics, Tour de France, college football games all across the southeast and lots of MLB games. But there are two sporting events that I would love to attend one day...

Growing up we would tape Wimbledon and watch it after church...today's match was just amazing!

Although I can't play golf at all I think that it would be so much fun to watch golf on such a beautiful course! Maybe one day I will have the chance to go to both of these!!!!

The Planner in Me....

2009-07-01T21:20:00.002-05:00

Ok, I am sure a planner. Yes, I plan things and I like to plan lots of things. And I like to plan things a long time in advance too. One things that really gets under my skin is when plans fall apart. I had some great 4th of July plans and now it appears they are no more. It makes me sad. Now, I will just need new plans... suggestions/invitations?? hahaha (J/K!)

The Joy of Cedar Lane

2009-06-19T07:02:00.004-05:00

Summer nights are so wonderful. Neighbors are so amazing. We are constantly saying how we want to be better friends with our neighbors. After a long day at work I came home to Patrick and Leanne playing with Jack in the drive way. This led to us grilling out together and then sitting around the kitchen table until after 10pm. What fun neighbors we have! It can't get much better than Cedar Lane.... and I will write later about our not so amazing neighbors.

Sweet Summer Time!

2009-06-17T21:28:00.002-05:00

A couple of things that I love about summer...
1. The extra day light
2. Long runs that cause me to sweat
3. Laying out by the pool talking with good friends
4. The Cabin
5. Grilling out (although I am yet to master that skill)

That is all.

Amy Farnsworth, L.D.

2009-06-14T16:42:00.002-05:00

So I am official at the hospital now. My very own name badge came in this week and there has been no turning back since. I have been seeing patients for over a week now and my responsibility continues to expand. My hours are flexible but I am keeping them about 8-5 each day. Some days I stay later and others I get to leave about 4. My boss Connie has been a huge blessing and so helpful. I am continuing to ask questions daily but she takes time to explain them and ensure that I am getting along well. My office is still naked because I am waiting to see my parents this weekend to pick up my framed diplomas and to get a poster framed for my office. But I will post pictures soon enough.

Overall, I am loving what I do and I can't believe that I actually get paid to do it. The funniest part thus far is that I already have a student under me. Technically I can't sign off on any of her checklists but she makes rounds with me and does what I tell her. Granted, I think that I am cool because I was just in her shoes so I really don't want her to do some of the crap work that I had to do. I hope that she thinks I am not making her do that.

I promise to have a little more fun with the next post. Sorry that this one is just so dry and boring....

The Real World Starts Tomorrow!

2009-05-31T19:55:00.002-05:00

So the big day has finally arrived. And no I am not talking about my wedding. I am sure that some of you were just holding your breath, hahaha! Tomorrow will mark the first day of my working career. Tomorrow I officially become a big girl. I will start to get a pay check, work approximately 40 hours each week (maybe more) and have my own office. As I sit here and think about it I am a little scared but also very excited. Little did I know back in 2003 that I would one day be a dietitian. I always thought that I would be a nurse. But the Lord changed my desires and here I am the night before my first job! Let the adventure begin!

Happy Graduation Helen!

2009-05-28T10:10:00.002-05:00

Today is the day that my baby sister Helen graduates from high school! Wooohoooo! I know that she has been looking forward to this day for the past year. It has been so much fun to see Helen grow in so many ways this past year and even since I left for college. Granted we are six years apart but we really are similar in many ways. Last summer we were the only children that lived at home and had many bonding experiences. And even over the past two weeks we have had so much fun. I am so excited that she will be continuing the Farnsworth tradition and going to Auburn this fall. We will see if she continues the trend of choosing a different sorority. Happy Graduation Day, Helen!!!!

Second Family

2009-05-22T22:52:00.002-05:00

I just have to write about my love for Dell and Carolyn Hill. They are in many ways my second parents. At times I feel like my own parents get a little jealous of the time that I spend with them. Normally, Dell and Carolyn get a call right after my own parents if I have a big decision to make (i.e. job). They are sweet enough to take time out of their busy schedule when I am home to sit down and spend time with me. Lately, it is normally over a bottle of wine but other times it has been riding the golf carts, playing in the garden, riding 4-wheelers or countless other things. I have truly been blessed by their friendship and words of wisdom over the years. And tonight was no exception! I was blessed to join them at a local favorite restaurant, Buttermilk Hill. They were just written up in Southern Living so if you are ever in the Sylacauga area I recommend it!

A Very Fun Weekend

2009-05-20T22:05:00.003-05:00

I am several days late posting about my fun weekend. It was life changing in a couple of ways.

1. I finished my dietetic internship and that means I am officially ready to start work. That honestly scares me a little. But I did not stay in school 6 years for nothing so it is time to actually start making a pay check!!! YAY!!! My parents were able to come over for the graduation ceremony and we enjoyed a great lunch at the Veranda. And yes I have started my study program for the RD exam. I am spending lots of quality hours at the Sylacauga Public Library, it's great!

2. I got to see Coldplay in concert!!! woooohoooooo!!!! Sarah Marie had been asking me for weeks if I wanted to go. I finally yes and I really don't know why I wanted so long to comment. By far the best concert I have been to. It was amazing and I am now singing along to every Coldplay song I have in my car. And I have a crush on Chris Martin!

I will try to find fun things to update you while I am home in Sylacauga. Although my life is rather boring at the moment. If you have fun plans for Memorial Day and want some company.... just invite me! Hehe!

Done!!

2009-05-14T12:34:00.000-05:00

I have finished my internship! woooooo hoooooo! Only thing left is graduation tomorrow!

Employment

2009-05-13T14:27:00.002-05:00

Graduation is Friday!!! Only 2 more days of internship!!!!!!

So I have a job and I start it in less than a month. To be honest I am a little freaked out by the fact that I am about to be a big girl. This past year I have liked to think that I am a big girl but reality is about to hit. I will soon be responsible for patients, support groups, outpatients and so much more. Don't think that I am not excited about this opportunity because I really am it is just a lot to take on. But I mean I have to start my first job at some point. I will post pictures of my office when I get moved in!!! Wooo hooo!

The Start of Wedding Season 2009!

2009-04-29T15:59:00.003-05:00

What a fun weekend! I did basically no school (which was a bad thing, but I got over that because I took a "personal day" yesterday to makeup for my lack of work over the weekend). On Friday afternoon I drove to Auburn to see some friends before they all left for summer vacation. I was so excited to get there that I did not even stop in Sylacauga (I know, I am a bad daughter). I got to eat at one of my favorite Mexican places -- Larado's! Kate is (finally) 21 so went to 8th and Rail and enjoyed an alcoholic beverage together. This is showing my age but by midnight I was ready to leave and call it a night.

Saturday morning I woke and went on a walk with Laura Allyson. I want to be in shape like she is. We use to walk every day together but this past time I about lost my legs. If you look up power walking in Websters I am sure that you will see her picture next to the definition.

Mary Martha, Allie and I got breakfast at Big Blue Bagel :) It was great to see these girls and hear about life. Allie is about to be my favorite Texan because she is moving to Dallas this week!

Wedding season 2009 has started. I kicked the year off with my life long friend Alana's wedding. She grew up 2 blocks down the street from us. There are so many memories of tea parties, forts, riding bikes, playing softball and the list goes on of our growing up together. There were 5 girls and we were all really good friends and I am now the only one that is single. But I think it is great ;)

On Sunday I surprised Caroline at church in Bham. Her face was complete shock and confusion. She looked at me with the look of "this is not on my calendar -- why are you here" look. It was priceless. We were able to sit by the pool and ensure that we were getting our daily vitamin D intake.

Now I am back to reality.... one presentation down, one to go! After Friday I will be home free!

The Mississippi Journey!

2009-04-19T19:53:00.003-05:00

It was one year ago today that I was awaiting for the computer to tell me where I would be spending the next year (or possibly more now) of my life. My sweet friend Mary Martha waited up with me until midnight. She even distracted me with things to do so that the time would pass quickly. And she gave me a few glasses of wine to help me relax. I never thought that I would love Mississippi as much as I do!

This past weekend was Super Bulldog Weekend. What is that you might ask? It is packed with activities like baseball, arts festivals, brunches, more baseball, tailgating, football, and time with friends. I welcomed two friends to Starkville for the weekend. I will say that our guest room has been put to great use! Sarah Marie and David both come north for the fun packed weekend. This was David's first time to get the full Starkville experience. Sarah Marie made her second visit of the year.

Friday night our Supper Club got together and went to the baseball game. It had been a while since we had all (well we were missing a few folks) gotten together. After the game some of us continued to the evening with a game of Scattergories. Saturday morning some girls from my program got together for brunch. Poor David was the only guy so we turned on ESPN so that he would feel more comfortable! We walked around the Starkville Arts Festival and ate lunch at the Deli. The baseball game went to extra innings but in the bottom of the 10th on a homerun won the game for the Bulldogs. We wanted something really low key on Saturday night because we had been out all day. Sarah Marie, David and I all made dinner for Leanne and Nathan and Jessica and Donald. We hung out and talked for a while and then played some cards.

It was a wonderful weekend! Misssissippi continues to be a blessing :)

Congratulations David!

2009-04-10T23:56:00.002-05:00

So my life long friend and one of my favorite boys in college has found the girl that he will marry. My dear friend David Peake dropped to one knee today and asked Mary Beth to marry him! So very exciting!! YAY, for an awesome wedding that I will be attending very soon!

FIJI Semi-Formal

2009-04-05T18:27:00.007-05:00

So I thought that my days of fraternity formals were over. But I guess that you can never say never. Last night I attended FIJI Semi-Formal in West Point, MS (about 20 minutes road the road). How it worked out was one of Leannes friends (Hunter) had a friend that needed a date. He called to get Leanne to go but she could not so for some reason I said that I would go. Guess that I was just in the mood for something totally random. And that is what it was ... totally random. Never met/seen/talked to the guy until he showed up at my house to pick me up. I have to admit that I miss all the dancing that goes with formals. There is just something about being able to look like a fool with everyone else and dancing to some good Motown music. While I do think that my fraternity formal days are now over it makes me excited for the next wedding and a really good band. I think that I am going to make it a requirement for it to be a good wedding there must be a band! So over the years I have had some great formal dates. Ones that know how to dance, ones that need improvement but I think that they all were a lot of fun! Here is a trip down memory lane of my Alpha Gam and fraternity formals.... (I could not really find some pictures from freshman and sophmore years)

Blessed by Friends!

2009-04-02T12:52:00.005-05:00

I can't believe that I have not blogged about my two previous weekends! They were so much fun and a true blessing! I must admit that I have the best friends in the world. Even if I did not see you in the past two weeks I still think that I am very blessed by the friends God has provided!

Weekend #1: Nashville!!!
I had been telling Leslie that I would come visit for her for a while but I had never been able to follow through on my plans. I was finally able to skip town from Starkville and head north. This was my first experience in 24 years of life to not have a spring break (I did not like it too much). But I did get one day off from rotations and class. Sarah Marie was also able to drive up and spend the weekend with us! Friday afternoon was spent shopping (not that I had any money) in downtown Franklin. My theme was- when I get money I will buy this for my house. That night was spent cooking dinner and drinking wine and catching up on life. Saturday morning we enjoyed breakfast at the Pancake Pantry and then did some window shopping. That night some friends of Leslies from church had a Gumbo Fest. Those boys sure know how to cook some gumbo. I must marry a man that cook at least cook I decided (hahaha!). Sunday we enjoyed a brisk walk around the neighborhood and lunch with Julieann and Ansley. Then I had to drive the 5 hours back to Starkville. It was so hard to leave. But I left encouraged and looking forward to my next visit to Nashville and with Sarah Marie and Leslie!

Weekend #2: Mary Martha came to Starkville
I always love visitors and I dont get them that often. Because I am not sure what the future holds and if I will be in Starkville for only 7 more weeks or possibly the next couple of years Mary Martha decided that she needed to hurry and get here. We had the most chill weekend ever! I made dinner on Friday night and we enjoyed some Bops custard. Then Leanne took us on a campus tour and we had to listen to the fight song at the Chapel at 10pm. Leanne is such a RoadRunner! Saturday we slept in and then ate at my favorite little place, Little Building Cafe. To be physically active we took a walk around campus and I pointed out a few of my favorite study spots and buildings. That night we enjoyed some wine and sitting on the couch reading. I dont think that you can get more relaxed than we were. But it was so much fun having Mary Martha here!

I am excited because Auburn is coming to Starkville this weekend for baseball! I plan to be at all three games! War Eagle!!!

War Eagle Moment

2009-03-14T20:07:00.002-05:00

This past week as I am charting in the ICU I had a doctor walk in and sit next to me. Being just the Intern I turned around and asked if he needed my chart. He noticed my little Auburn badge and immediately said "War Eagle"! As you can imagine I was thrilled and responded with a very strong "War Eagle". I felt like I had just become best friends with the Neurologists. We proceeded to talk for about the next 30 minutes.

Then today as I was running a car passed me with an Auburn tag. I rarely see tags with Auburn on them in Starkville. Over the past few weeks I have missed my Auburn friends, Auburn teachers, and many things about Auburn. Granted I love my life now and were the Lord has me. But Auburn was a great blessing!

Becoming a Morning Person....

2009-03-06T21:19:00.005-06:00

Believe it or not but this is what my alarm clock reads Monday-Thursday mornings. I have never been a morning person but I am slowly learning to accept that if I want to get everything accomplished in a day I must get up at this hour. I have found that if I snooze for 3-5 minutes then it makes getting up a whole lost easier. By the time 5:30am roles around I am usually at ....

The Sanderson Center!
This is MSU's really nice student activities center. I absolutely love it! It is one of things that it beats Auburn on (there are not many but this is one). I spend about the next 30 minutes or so working out. Then I have just enough time to meet the girls for our drive to Tupelo at 6:30am.

So by 6:30am I am feeling very productive because I have worked out, showered, and at least somewhat awake. But this early rising does have it downside... I am normally moving towards bed at 9:30pm and have the light off around 10pm.

The Heart Monitor

2009-03-04T18:36:00.005-06:00

For the past 48 hours I have had the joy of wearing this little monitor. I could not shower (sponge baths are not fun and washing the hair from the side of the bathtube is awful), it was a pain to wear with jeans, and this only names of few of the troubles that I have gone to over the past 48 hours.

So you might be asking why I was wearing one of these little devices. On Monday morning I was interning with the renal dietitian. We were standing by the nurse's station reading over charts. Kerrianne (the dietitian) was pouring knowledge into me so I was trying soak up every word she was saying. Not really sure when I started feeling bad but I started getting dizzy and really hot. I finally told Kerrianne that I thought that I needed to sit down. Well I took about two steps toward a chair that I thought that I saw. Needless to say, I did not make it to the chair. I ended up on the floor and when I came back to I had about ten nurse's taking my blood pressure, blood sugar, and temperature, and I can't count the number of times they asked if I was pregnant (I mean really??). After spending four hours in the ER, having blood drawn, EKG, and failing a pregnancy test they let me go. But they made me wear this heart monitor because they wanted to make sure that my heart was ok. I kinda thought that the whole thing was a little over kill. My heart is fine I am sure.

Mid-20s???

2009-02-08T14:32:00.005-06:00

Well in less than a week I will ring in the mid-20s. I feel old for just saying that but there is nothing that I can do to stop it. I am not sure I would consider myself a grown-up yet... but something about mid-20s screams that it is time to get a job and actually have an income. Other things that come to mind are car insurance, health insurance, looking forward to the weekend so that I can run all my errands, getting closer to being able to rent a car.... I guess that I could go on and on.

Twenty-three has been a great year no doubt about that. I do think that it will be a hard one to top. Here are some random/serious/funny things that have happened over the year.

- Continued the Farnsworth tradition of backpacking on the AT... we made Dad promise that we would pack from now on because he brought the kitchen sink and all the toiletries that one would need for a year.

- Traveled down to New Orleans with my sophomore friends... For some reason they thought that I was cool enough to go along and not too old.

- After 5 years of taking my parents money I said goodbye to Auburn University. But it came at the expense of lots of tears on that May afternoon. I still want to go back... the days trips that I have taken just are not getting the job done for me.

- Had a pair of shorts with my name and phone number disappear out of my suitcase and then resurface in front of ~700 people. Someone thought that I would not find friends in Starkville... they were wrong. I will say that those shorts did lead into a romantic (haha) walk on the beach later that night. And believe it or not a guy in Starkville really did get my number off the shorts and take me out on a date or two. But I had to let him down gently that I was not really interested.

- Speaking of dating... I think that I have had more dates since August than I had in the last 2 years at Auburn combined. Don't know what that means. Haha. And I am not really sure if I should broadcast that fact. But, to answer all of your burning questions.... I am NOT dating anyone!

- I think that I attended 7 or 8 weddings in my 23rd year of life.

- It was a very disappointing year of Auburn football for me. My only hope is that we will get better... And I might have shed a tear the day that Tommy "resigned". At least I did not write him a note like my dad did.

- I ran another half marathon. It was still really hard... did not get any easier. But I think that two halfs should make one whole, right?

- Who would have ever thought that I would move to Mississippi after graduation. It was not even on my radar until like February of last year. What a difference a year makes. I have now called this state home for 6 months.

- I learned a few Mississippi State athletic cheers. I do yell them when I attend sporting events but will refuse to use them if Auburn is playing. For some reason I don't hate Ole Miss either. I have no regrets about yelling Hotty Totty when Ole Miss beat Florida last fall.

- This is sad but I am now use to the idea of waking up around 6am. I did not even do this in high school. Like Thursday morning I woke up ready to go... it was like I was waking up at 10am but it was 6am.

- And I have also learned how to do some cooking this year... I am not domestic but I pretend. I put on my apron and I think that I am on the food network or something.

Well, I could go on and on about random things in my life this past year. Like I said 23 will be hard to top.... the only thing that might be better in the land of 24 is that there might be a paycheck coming... that would be exciting!

It is Great to be Home for Christmas!

2008-12-24T13:19:00.003-06:00

So, semester one of grad school is behind me. All went well and I am now enjoying one of the perks of still being in school... Christmas vacation. I think that this is the first year that I have fully appreciated the break. This past semester has given me a taste of the "real world" and I can say that I am not ready for it to hit. I have one more semester and then I have a few big decisions to make ... like, do I stay in Starkville for another year and work on my masters full time or do I find a job and finish my masters on the side although that will take a little longer. But I will be saving those decisions for later on and I am going to enjoy my break from school.

After spending the weekend in Tuscaloosa with Dads family I arrived in Sylacauga late Sunday night. I am glad that I decided to stay in Tuscaloosa for a few extra hours. I was able to go tacky Christmas caroling with friends from Trinity. Fun times are promised when you combine the Lucys, Brewbakers and Farnsworths.

If you know me well you know that I love to live by a schedule. Well, I decided that it is a good thing to live by the seat of your pants once in a while. Monday afternoon I got a text message from Nathan Lucy telling me that I needed to come to Birmingham for the Red Mountain Christmas concert and good fellowship. So I debated for a couple of hours if I would go or not. I made the best decision and decided that I would go. I packed in about 15 minutes and left Sylacauga with an overnight bag in hand but not sure where I would be spending the night. It was the perfect night. I got to hang out with Leslie, Sarah Marie and Anna. After two years the four of us were together again. Although we did not get into deep conversation just being around those three girls was worth the trip. Not only did I get to see them many other friends were there. I spent the night with my former roommate, Glenna. We stated up way too late talking and watching movies.

The next day we had lunch with another roommate, Laura Jane. We went to an Auburn favorite, Momma G's. They just opened in Birmingham. Wow, a Momma's Love has never tasted so good. As I was sitting at lunch my friend Catie walked in. We were both kinda bummed that we were not going to see each other because our schedules did not work out. The look on my face was priceless when I saw her. I think that she was stalking me.... And later that afternoon I got measured for my bridesmaid dress so that I will be in her wedding next November. To round out the day... I got to hang out for a couple of hours with my other half. CBJ and I spend about 2.5 hours talking and laughing. We are so much alike that it is scary. It was the biggest blessing getting to have lots of serious talk with her and get some thoughts on the decisions that I will be making over the next few months. Although, she really pushing for me to move to Birmingham.

Well, it is off to Birmimgham. We are going to start celebrating Christmas! Merry Christmas!!!!!

Top 10 of Fall (thus far)

2008-11-10T21:51:00.010-06:00

1. Starkville Supper Club
I will start off by saying that the Lord has blessed me with some amazing friends here in Starkville. It was my prayer all summer/spring to find Godly friends wherever I moved. We have formed a Supper Club composed of about 6-7 people. It is something that we look forward to about every third week. We rotate houses and cooking responsibilities. We also love to play games on these nights.

2. Beth’s Wedding
My 7th wedding of the summer but what better way to go out than with my own sister’s wedding. It was a full weekend after a long week of rotations. We had so many family and friends in for the wedding. My friend Leslie was able to come down from Nashville. It was great to see her because we really had not had a long catch up time since May. The rehearsal dinner was at Selwood Farm (one of my favorite places on earth) and then the reception at the Sylacauga Country Club. We had a great band and we had lots of fun dancing the night away.

3. MSU-Auburn game
The Auburn Tigers came to Starkville and so did many of my friends from Auburn. It was a blast about 8 girls at my house. I loved showing these people my new home and some of the treats around Starkville. On Friday, was the annual Bulldog Bash. It featured Matt Wertz and Gavin. You can ask Mary Emily about her upcoming wedding to Matt Wertz. It was a ton of fun because we were almost on the front row for Matt’s concert. We had a great time tailgating all day before the game. I was thrilled to learn that my friends Nathan and Anna Lucy were coming over from Tuscaloosa for the day and to go to the game. The game was very frustrating (really 3-2??). I have never left a football game more frustrated especially after a victory! But it was so much fun to have several friends come visit me!!!

4. Return to Auburn
I was able to make my first trip back to Auburn for the TN game. It was so much fun to be back in the place that I called home for 5 years. But at the same time it was a little weird. It made me grateful for the years there but I also realized that God has me in the perfect place right now. It was so much fun to drive down roads that I use to run almost daily. Our family had a typical tailgate and so many great friends were able to come by. I got to see my Alpha Gam friends that I had not seen since the spring. Auburn pulled out a win too (always special)! Saturday night Leslie and I were able to sit down with Kate (our wonderful hostess) and talk about the fall and the challenges and joys that we have each faced. It is always great to be back in Auburn! War Eagle!

5. Chicago
I have now finished the top 5 cities in the world that I want to visit. Never thought that it would be finished at the age of 23. But now I get to come with another list! If was there for the national American Dietetic Conference. Ok, I am a super big nerd… I loved all of the seminars that I went to and actually learned a lot from them. One of the highlights was getting to eat lunch with Dr. Fellers from Auburn. We had a great time talking about my internship and the decisions that I will be making in the next few months. We were able to eat some deep dish pizza, visit the Art Institute of Chicago and shop on Miracle Mile. The last night I went with my friend Lauren from Auburn and we went to the Hancock Building to the 96th floor and got a drink and looked over the city. It was so much fun and beautiful! Chicago was awesome and I hope to go back one day!

6. Elizabeth Came to Starkville
My friend Elizabeth from Auburn and Marannook came to Starkville for the weekend. It was something that we had been planning for a while and I was so thankful to see actually happen. We ate downtown at one of my favorite places, Old Venice. We rented a movie and just hung out in our pj’s talking. It was so much to hear about the house she and Andrew have bought and how Crusade is at Auburn. The next morning we went to City Bagel to meet up with one of her friends from Murray and then shopped downtown. I was so glad that she was able to come because it is always a joy to see friends!

7. Trip to Oxford
It was a last minute decision but I went to Oxford, MS for the Auburn game. I thought that I was the good luck charm because Auburn had won every game when I was in attendance up to that point. The main reason that I went was to spend time with Anna Lucy. We had a great chat on Friday night. It was just so special to spend a few hours of just talking. I have decided that is one thing that I love the most – one on one time with people! I was also able to see Kira and Oliver Aaron in The Grove on Saturday. I love seeing Auburn fans and friends wherever I go. Beth and Michael were also there. I did decide that Oxford is not my favorite place in the world. It was good to visit but I was glad to leave.

8. Clinical Dietetics
Yes, the reason that I am in Starkville…. My school work. So I guess that it is only fitting that I at least share what I love about it. For the last month I have been rotating with the Clinical Dietitians at Baptist. I guess the best way to describe it is that I love it! I loved reading medical charts, making nutritional
diagnoses, talking with patients, counseling patients, and everything else that comes with dietetics.

9. MSU Senator
So you might laugh but I was elected to the MSU Student Association Senate. I decided to run because I thought that it would be a good way to make friends and make MSU my own experience. I really had no idea what to expect when I started. But over the last several months I have really enjoyed being a Senator. I have met several friends and thus far enjoyed my experience.

10. Election Returns Party
While the results did not turn out the way that I wanted we still made it a fun night. Leanne and I hosted several friends to watch the returns. We had lots of food and other yummy things. We gave everyone a citizenship test to take during the evening to help pass time. It was fun to see how much everyone remembered from American history. This is another testament of what great friends I am building/finding in Starkville!

Life in Starkville

2008-08-31T19:56:00.003-05:00

Wow, it has been a long time since I have updated my blog. I don't know if it because I have been too busy to do it and or not really been sure what to say. Maybe a little of both. I hope that I don't bore you with my thoughts of the past few weeks and what is to come over the next few.

I think that the last time I wrote it was my first day of clinical dietetics. I have now finished three weeks. While I have learned lots I still have miles to go. Kelly and Kim (the dietitians) have turned over all iron supplement educations and most other diet educations over to Meghan and I. We all have lots of projects to do. I have created a fiber presentation and give it last week. I am working on a flax seed presentation currently and will give that in a couple of weeks. Not to mention we have numerous case studies to do. As you can tell they are keeping us busy. But I really love what I am learning. So I think that I made the right decision about going to grad school.

Many of you have asked if I am making friends. The answer is yes! My roommate, Leanne and I have the best relationship. Just this afternoon we planned out our menu for the next 10 days and then went to Wal-Mart to purchase our goods. We are also very dedicated to our school work. Yesterday for about four hours we sat in our kitchen and did nothing but work on homework. I am so thankful to have someone that is just like me and loves to be on top of school work. I have been very thankful that she keeps inviting her friends over to our cute house. I have become friends with most of them. I am also very thankful for the RUF intern, Jessica. We have hit it off great and talk pretty much every day and try to see each other as often as possible. So the Lord has provided friends, one of my answers to prayers.

I think that yesterday was the day that I missed Auburn the most since May. It was Auburn's first home football game something that I had not missed in at least five years. Because it was not on TV I found a local radio station that carried it and listened in to the pre-game show and thoroughly enjoyed every second of Auburn football. I am thankful I had friends at Jordan-Hare that were texting me and sending me pictures! While I was listening to the Auburn game on the radio I had the TV on the Miss State game. My new team did not fare as well... they lost their season opener. A couple of friends kept getting on to me because I referred to Miss State as your team... they said that I had to say our team because I am a student at Miss State too. Still working on that one. Don't worry you Auburn fans I still bleed orange and blue! War Eagle!

I will be leaving this upcoming weekend...Beth is getting married. Crazy! How are we old enough to be getting married. This will be my fourth wedding to be in this year and I think that it is my tenth or eleventh wedding to attend this year. Phew! I guess that it is just the phase of life. It is exciting though!

I promise to update more often from now on! If you are in Starkville or the state of Mississippi let me know!!

Policies and Procedures...

2008-08-11T20:34:00.002-05:00

Well today was my first experience with clinical dietetics. Meghan (my rotation partner for the next year) and I were sent to the cafeteria with a couple of huge notebooks to read the hospitals policies and procedures and to study for our diabetic exchange quiz that we will take tomorrow morning. After about three hours of reading we return to the dietetics office and they told us we were free to go home! What?! Not what I expected but I did not complain. I enjoyed a relaxing afternoon kicking around Starkville with my friend Drew from Auburn and working out at MSU's awesome rec center. Wow, this is the only thing that I have found that I like more than Auburns version.

This past weekend I got out of Starkville for a short vacation. A friend since birth, Claire Woods (Maddox) got married in Birmingham. It was a beautiful wedding and my sixth to attend this summer. It was a Farnsworth-Woods-Weiznecker family reunion basically. Seth and I decided that we could join in on the sibling dance because had know them just as long as their siblings. Lets just say that our parents got a huge laugh when they saw Seth and I out there cutting up. This was the third wedding in a years time and Beth's will make a fourth. Busy year for these three families.

Have I mentioned that I am excited that my roommate is finally joining me in Starkville. Leanne is set to arrive in about an hour and I am so excited. She was here last week for a few days but left for Mobile to finish out her summer. This big house was getting lonely by myself so I will finally have someone else here! Yay! ....we love guests too!

Let the Internship Begin

2008-08-05T21:07:00.002-05:00

I have two days under my belt. While I am still very much overwhelmed I am starting to settle in. I knew from the beginning that I would feel overwhelmed and a little stressed. I must say that these past two days I have been so grateful for my Auburn education. While there were days at Auburn I hated my degree and wanted to change I can now say that they were preparing me for what I am doing right now. So it is exciting to see the hard work pay off!

I must say also that Dr. Fellers is a legend. Whenever I say that I am from Auburn University their next comment is, "oh you are one of Dr. Fellers students". I will complement her on a great job of teaching. I seriously don't think that I would be at this internship if it had not been for her and all the connections she has all across America.

Leanne left me to go home again today. We have determined that we are going to be the best roommates. We like to do so many of things around the house the same way. As we were cooking dinner together Sunday night we kept discovering similarities that we have. We have set a cooking schedule too...we are going to cook at least 2 nights a week and make enough for us to share a meal together and then there will be left overs that we will eat on the other nights. I am pretty excited about expanding my cooking abilities.

Thanks for your prayers for me while I am in Starkville! Life is going well and I can't wait to post the next adventure!

Trip to Starkville

2008-08-01T17:02:00.002-05:00

My day started off rather earlier considering I had a late night. My dear friend from Auburn, Cabray spent the night with me on her way to Auburn. We played Spades but got our butt's kicked by my parents. Then we got really excited together about Auburn football. A little after 1am we decided that it was bed time.

It is just over 3 hours from my house in Sylacauga to my house in Starkville. But I like to take my time getting places (well actually normally not). But today I did a Tour de Alabama en route to Starkville.

My first stop was Selwood Farm. I had to return a dress and drop off a printer. The Hill's were incredibly generous and had muffins and coffee waiting on me. What a sweet send off to the next chapter of my life. I stopped in Birmingham to do some returning of items. My highlight though came at lunch when I ate with Caroline. We had not seen each since Sarah Nell's wedding and this was the last time that we will see each other for several weeks. This past week I realized that we were really splitting ways and that I would not have her at my side each day in class and to help work on each project. We think so much alike and it just makes me want to cry to know that we will be completing grad school at different locations. But we both feel very strongly that this is were the Lord is leading us. It was a teary good-bye! Then I headed to Tuscaloosa. Did some more returning. Dad suggested that if I went to see Papa I might get some gas money out of the deal. Well I did! Ok, it was worth the stop for other reasons too. He seemed in the best mood that I have seen him all summer (that is saying a lot). Across the river I went to the Lucy household. Anna and I enjoyed some good catch up time. And Nathan was home...he got a haircut! What? Very short and something that completely took me off guard. Not bad though.

The hour and half drive seemed to tick by ever so slowly. I thought that I would never get to town. But I finally did. The unloading was easy and I really did not have much to do in the room. So thankful for that!

Mrs Lydia Allison came and picked me and took on a tour of Starkville. I learned how to get to Wal-Mart and several good coffee shops. I don't know what I would have done without her help. It was just a great evening of learning my new surroundings!

Best Friends and the Lake

2008-07-29T18:02:00.004-05:00

So I am in my final week at home before I leave for Mississippi. As many of you know all summer I had been planning to go to Colorado with the Hills and their daughter, Mary Lyn and her family. About 2 weeks before the trip we had to cancel it for many different reasons. It was heartbreaking because I was really looking forward to the trip. In the end it was a wise decision. The timing was not the best. I have 4 projects that are due the first Monday of class. If you know me well this does stress me out. I am working hard and they will be done!

But to the exciting news of the weekend. I was able to see Leslie and Sarah Marie! They have a yearly family weekend at the lake and I got invited. How could I pass up a time to see some of my best friends at Auburn and not to mention the lake! So I jumped in. Although it was just a day it was so much fun. We played in the water, rode the boat, had some gentle tubing action, and enjoyed jumping off the pier. Not to mention I got to work on my tan! It was just a blast. I am excited to know that I will see Leslie at Beth's wedding in about a month and that Sarah Marie and I will be living only 2 hours apart instead of 4!

Today was my last day at Selwood. It was so sad. I cried and cried when I left. Mrs Hill and I did yoga together like we have done almost every day this summer. I have so enjoyed that time with her. We are able to spend it praying together and laughing together. Dell and I are like a pair together. As we hugged we both just cried and cried. I know that one day I will return!

I never thought that I would actually have a blog...

2008-07-25T21:55:00.002-05:00

So I have to admit that this is a little weird for me. I have always enjoyed reading everyone else's blogs but I never thought that I would get one. I secretly wanted one a little bit and for some reason I told a couple of friends who said that it would be a great idea. So I gave in and said why not! They tell me that it is addicting...great one more thing for me to do instead of study while in Grad School. But I'm on board!

I am home alone for the weekend while the rest of the family is at a shower for Beth and Michael. It's not all bad having the house to myself except when mom leaves the frig empty. She did that to me this weekend. What cook? Mmmm. I thought that I would enjoy not cooking for a few more days. There went that great idea!

I have 2 days left of work. I really can't believe that the summer is over this fast. It has been fun with lots of different things going on. Weddings almost every weekend, the beach a couple of times, lake a few times, and random visits with friends. We are all starting to get sprinkled all over the United States. I am accepting sky miles if anyone would like to donate! Haha!