Family Time

The holiday's are filled with Christmas parties, family get togethers, and being taken out of your normal routines and put into situations that you just aren't always use to.  This holiday season was a little different for me because it may be my last Christmas with my family.  Next year, I could easily be working on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. (The perks to working in the service industry. Not!)

This Christmas I was lucky enough to get two weeks off to come home and spend time with my family.  Four years ago, you couldn't have paid me for those two weeks off with nothing to do but spend time with my family.  As I get older, I am starting to realize what is truly important to me.  My family.  I am lucky enough to have two great-grandmothers still living! I am extremely grateful that my grandparents are walking distance from my house.  I took that for granted in high school... a lot! 

The one thing that I never thought I would say only a few short years ago, but I have thoroughly enjoyed spending two weeks with my parents.  My Dad and I have taken long runs together and my Mom and I have shopped and enjoyed baking/eating together.  Who would have thought that my parents would be some of my best friends? Like my Papa always said, "One day you'll realize just how smart your parents really are" and I have come to realize that very quickly.

This year I was lucky enough to be roommates with my brother.  In high school, I would have dreaded this situation but it has helped us develop a stronger brother/sisterly bond.  Spending time with him as been a blessing this holiday season as well seeing as he has a bowl game to get to tomorrow.  He as only been home three days but it has been a lot of fun having the whole gang together.

My little sister Jaime has had an exciting two weeks (when does she not?).  She was accepted to Auburn, she's had dance/band practice almost everyday, she went to her last DD Dance, and still managed to keep a social life and see the family (a little bit).  I have given her a hard time these last few weeks because I don't see or talk to her that much because I'm in Auburn and she's here in Oxford.  But I know she is still being the social butterfly she's always been.  I can't fault her for being herself.  

My mom mentioned yesterday, "there is something about having everyone together" and there really is.  I'm not a mom (and won't be for A WHILE!!!!!) but when we are all together, yes we drive each other crazy sometimes, but it's like the puzzle is completed.  All the weird, unique pieces fit together to make this crazy family and I wouldn't trade it for the world!

Merry Christmas everyone,

Kayla

Happy Holidays!

This year, for some reason, I have been in extraordinarily holiday spirited! (haha) Christmas music isn't always my favorite but I find myself only wanting to hear Christmas music.  For the past two weeks, all I've wanted to see is Home Alone (my favorite Christmas movie).  I haven't seen any Christmas movies until tonight when Brenden texted me and told me Home Alone 2 was on. YAY! I want to watch old cartoons like Frosty the Snowman and Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.  Buying Christmas gifts has been on my mind for about two weeks now and I think I am over half way finished now.

Normally around the holidays, I like to decorate but I try to stay away from the normal Christmas routines.  This year, I have been complete opposite.  Don't let the holiday blues come over you.  Yes most people are in a bad mood this time of year because of the crowds (and who wouldn't be if you went out to the stores or tried to get anywhere in under 10 minutes).  Let the little things carry you through the holiday season.  Share to one person this year what the true meaning of Christmas is.  Giving and receiving is always fun but the real meaning is that Jesus Christ was born.  Let that be the reason to have extraordinary holiday spirit be because of Him.  Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Black Friday

Today is a day of strength, courage, and endurance.  I however have none of those qualities today, at least for the shopping aspect of Black Friday.

But Black Friday is something completely different for me.  Today is the eve of all eves! The night before the Iron Bowl.  This is not just any Iron Bowl.  It is my last Iron Bowl as a student.  Well, it is my last football game as a student.  Oh how these four years have flown by.  Saturday's in Auburn, in the fall, during college, will forever have a place in my heart.

I will always remember the four Iron Bowl's I had the pleasure to experience during college.  My first Iron Bowl was with my dear friend Kristen in Tuscaloosa.  The weekend was fun but we lost that year and I spent my Saturday evening surrounded by Alabama fans celebrating a year of bragging rights.

The next Iron Bowl was finally in God's Country.  This had to be my favorite Iron Bowl of the four.  For some reason, the state thought the Iron Bowl would be best played on the Friday after Thanksgiving.  So my family and our close family friends had our Thanksgiving meal at the tailgate spot.  That Friday, Auburn played their hearts out and that was the first time I cried about an Auburn loss.  However, that Friday night was also the first night I hung out with Brenden and his friends and got to met his Dad and two younger brothers.  This was an Iron Bowl to remember, even if we did lose.

The next Iron Bowl was back in Tuscaloosa and again on Friday.  This year my family spent Thanksgiving at my Great Aunt Lou's farm in Birmingham and woke up bright and early that next day to drive the rest of the way to Tuscaloosa.  The game was cold and wet and Brenden and I sat at the very top on the last row in the end zone with Alabama fans surrounding us.  We only stayed until half-time but man I wish I would have stayed to see that comeback and yell War Eagle (just once) in Bryant Denny Stadium.

This year, I get to celebrate the Iron Bowl on Auburn's turf with the people I love, in the town that I cannot get enough of.  This place means so much to me.  It has given me the strength to know I can do anything I set my mind to, the courage to try new things in life, and the endurance to know that no matter what comes my way I will not give up.  I am so excited to go to my last student football game in Auburn AND it's the Iron Bowl.  This will be a day I will never forget.  I will probably cry (win or lose) but it will be happy tears either way.  Because being in Jordan Hare Stadium was the first time I felt like I was apart of the Auburn Family.  I will always be apart of this great big family but I will never have the same experiences like I have had as an Auburn student in the student section during an Auburn football game!

WAR EAGLE!

-Kayla

Do You Know Your Strengths?

Yesterday, I had an extremely long day.  It started with a 6am-2pm shift at the hotel followed by an SOS/Camp War Eagle (CWE) retreat that lasted from 3:30-7pm.  I was excited to go but went into it thinking it would be just a long staff meeting.  It most definitely was not.

The last part of the meeting focused on our goals and expectations for the next spring which was a great way to get us all focused for the next semester and training new orientation leaders.  But the first part was very interesting.  The career services came and spoke to us about an assessment each one of us took to learn what our strengths are.  This test is called Strengths Quest.  The assessment reveals your top 5 strengths out of 34 talents (or strengths).  My top 5 strengths are Achiever (no surprise), Significance, Focus, Activator, and Responsibility.  All of these I thought were just like me except for Significance.  After reading the description I thought, "Oh, I know exactly why that describes me."  The brief description for significance is you are independent and want to be recognized.  The old me would say that being recognized is the most important but now I would say that being recognized is not what it is all about.  It's about doing things for people whether they know you did it or not.  I like to hear thank you's from people but I'm not going to be upset if I don't hear one.

The interesting thing about this assessment is that there are 34 talents (or strengths) that you can be assessed.  You can take it as many times as you like but your top 5 do not change much.  Studies show that you will stay within your top 10 strengths and vary little.  If you have a strength in your top 5 that you do not think matches you well, it is probably a strength you haven't developed yet.  Focus on that strength and make it stronger than ever.  A successful person knows what their strengths are, what they need assistance with, and is not afraid to ask for help when they know they aren't good in certain areas. Do you know what your strengths are?

Small Town Girl with Big City Dreams

I have lived in Anniston/Oxford, AL for my entire life.  When I first came to Auburn I told everyone I was from Anniston because if I said Oxford everyone stared at me like I had three heads.  Small town USA is how I always referred to my hometown.

Everyone says to remember where you came from.  Know where your roots grow.  I love the adults in my hometown.  They helped me grow into the young lady I am becoming, they pushed me through hard times, and I never had to worry about my safety or well being when adults were around.  But when it came to high school aged people my worries were always high.  I was never secure after seventh grade.  I didn't believe in myself, I questioned everything, I wanted attention, but did not know how to make friends.  Is it bad that I don't necessarily want to remember where I came from?

I have dreamed, since the seventh grade, about moving to a big city and making all my dreams come true.  I have wanted to live in a high rise, with a dog, a great job, and a rocking life.  I always said I would never get married, have kids, or live in a big house.  Some of my dreams have changed but for the most part they still remain the same.  I still find myself, almost daily, dreaming about my future and what could be.

Auburn has been a great place for me to be these last four years.  It was just far away enough from all the pain I felt towards Oxford and it was just a tad bigger.  Although, Oxford is probably the same size as Auburn is now.  Anyways, these past four years have gone by fast but I think that is just another way of saying it's time for a new chapter.  Each day I feel myself getting closer and closer to the dreams I've always had for my life.  I cannot wait to see what the future holds for me.

I want to make a disclaimer on this blog because I don't want anyone to feel unappreciated.  I greatly appreciate all the adults who have shaped my life.  Without them, I would still be lost and Auburn would not have been as fabulous as it is/was.  Also, I want my family to know that I do not blame them for any of my hatred to Oxford.  I brought it upon myself.  You all just got the unsatisfactory job of dealing with my stubborn/difficult self.  I want to thank you for having patience with me.  I have become a better person because of the patience you all had with me.

In closing, I do not think there is anything wrong with moving on.  I will never forget where I came from but I will always be looking forward to the next big thing.  However, I am truly scared that I will not make it in this big city dream of mine.  Please pray that I continue to grow and learn so that I will be able to live the life I've always dreamed of having.

God Bless,

Kayla

Giving Blood

Yesterday I gave blood for the Beat Bama Blood Drive.  The last two years we have dominated and we always do the blood drive the week before they do. (WHOOP WHOOP!) They passed out the cutest stickers that read: "I bleed Orange and Blue!" (so true!)

Anyways, giving blood is my favorite way to give back at this point in my life.  I don't have much money to give but I can take the time out of my day to help 3 people in a quick 30-45 minutes (depending on if I pass out or not).

People always ask, how can you give blood or why do you like it so much?  Honestly, I think it was much more of a thrill when I was in high school and I was able to miss class to give blood or that I thought I was a badass for getting a huge needle stuck in my arm.  Now that I'm growing up and realizing how insane liking to give blood is, I start to get really queazy when I give blood.  This is normally how my appointments go:

I walk up to the registration table just fine and read the tips/facts book (just skim really because that is when the butterflies kick in).  After "reading" the tips/facts book, I rush to sit in the lab chairs.  The quicker I can answer the questions and get my finger pricked, which isn't that bad now (compared to a huge needle in your arm).  I never get worried about my iron because I think my blood is only made of iron (it's ridiculous how heavy it is).  But I always get worried about the questions.  I have no idea why because I haven't been on medication, or been paid for sex, or lived over seas.  But when they ask about going out of the country I start recalling every place I've been (which isn't much) but I don't want to lie so I get so nervous.

After the intimidating questions, they lady always says "Okay, are you ready?" and I take a deep breath and say "Yup."  Walking over to the table I start thinking about how my veins roll, I always get light headed, I can't get sick, I really need a drink, I don't know if I can do this.  Once they scan all those millions of barcodes they have to scan she says squeeze the stress ball.  I squeeze once and she says okay you can stop squeezing I can see your vein without any problems.  Which means I never get the purple marker (which is a plus because that thing never comes off) and her face turns into an excited child.  Before she gets too excited though I make sure to tell them "Yeah, my veins roll.  So you should be careful."  But of course they always miss.  The first 1-3 minutes isn't that bad but then I begin to lose feeling in my fingers and my face goes white and I start to breath really heavily.  Right before I feel sick I think about all the people I am helping with this tiny bag of blood.  It definitely helps me get through the last 10 minutes (I'm an extremely slow donor.)  Once the lady has asked twice now, "Are you sure you're okay?" I finally tell her, "No, I think I should lay down."  This always makes me nervous because the needle is still in my arm and laying down makes it move.  This time I did it with success and handled it like a pro!

The best part about the SGA blood drives is that (1) You get pizza! (2) This time they had corn nuggets! (3) There is almost always a t-shirt involved! (WINNING!)  But this volunteer project isn't for my great night of sleep I get afterwards or the t-shirt.  It's about the people it helps and how it will change their life.  I explain my experience because it has nothing on the trauma the people who receive the blood have gone through.  One of the thoughts I always have is I would love to know where my blood is going and how it is helping people.  I wish the Red Cross would put a tracker on all those crazy barcodes so we could see how it is helping people.

If you have never given blood before I have probably scared you away, but I encourage you to go and give (if you can and meet all the crazy questions they ask).  Do something for someone this month. It will make you feel better about yourself and it will most definitely make the people you help feel better as well!  There is two more weeks until Thanksgiving and I cannot wait to be around the people I love the most.  Be thankful for what you have!  There are some people who don't have anything!

God Bless,

Kayla

I Am Thankful

This month, I am trying to change my status on Facebook everyday to something I am grateful for.  It's the month of Thanksgiving but not only that it's about time I start thanking people and noticing all the blessings I have in my life.

When one of my friends said "You should do the 30 day: I'm thankful statuses" challenge I thought to myself, 30 days of things I'm thankful for? I can't have 30 things I'm thankful for.  Then I thought, if I don't have 30 things I'm thankful for I need a reality check because I have been beyond blessed during my life.  I have a wonderful family that loves and cares for me, friends who get me and know how to pick me up when I'm down, a job that I enjoy, my health, and so many other things.

But most importantly I'm alive.  God chose to wake me up for another day.  For some reason, he thought I deserved to live.  My job is to seek that purpose and live it to the best of my ability.  Today, I am not complaining, I am not getting angry, and I am choosing to be a better person for myself and everyone around me.  And you can do the same thing.  Make a conscious effort to choose your attitude today and live for the moment.

God Bless,

Kayla

Is It Always Necessary to Say How You Feel?

I wanted to write a different blog today but had some emotions on my shoulders.  Yesterday, Auburn beat Florida! WAHOO!  The game was amazing because 1. it was Florida 2. they are in the SEC which always makes for a fun game and 3. it was a night game! The only thing not enjoyable about the game were this two guys sitting in front of me bashing Auburn the entire game.  And might I add, they were Auburn students.

I'll start from the beginning (sorry if you have already heard this story): The first kick of the game, Florida receives.  The two guys in front of me begin... "Trotter sucks.  I hope he realizes what he's doing to us.  I can't believe they would let him start this week."  Let me remind you, we are on DEFENSE!!! Trotter is not even on the field.  So I bite my tongue.  We get on offense and Trotter has a few bad plays but everyone makes mistakes.  Let's move on.  Oh no! These two guys insisted on yelling and screaming about everything he did, every play the coaches called, and everything else that could have possibly been good or bad on the field (If we scored, they didn't like how we did it).  By this time maybe 5 minutes has passed in the first quarter.  I am not going to be able to enjoy this game unless I say something to these guys.  I tap the biggest one on the shoulder (because he was making the most comments) and yell with my shaker pointed at his face "Listen, are you a full time athlete and a full time student? I don't think so.  You couldn't do any of that even if you wanted to because you are a fat a**!!" So he yells back and me and his friend gets involved and says "We went to high school with Trotter so we are allowed to talk about him like this." EXCUSE ME! No you are not! He is a human being and is busting his butt at practice and in school and you think you can just put someone down like that? No! All of this happened right in the middle of our first touchdown.  This makes me mad because I can't even enjoy the touchdown because I am shaking with furry! This guy has made me miss the touchdown and I can't believe he is dogging our players and coaches like this.

After a few plays, Trotter throws a completion and I realize I am not going to be able to sit like this for the entire game.  So I politely tap him on the shoulder again and apologize for calling him names and calmly explain how it infuriates me that people put down other people to make themselves feel better.  He says he appreciates my apology and he shouldn't have gotten that worked up.  But for the rest of the game, his friend continued to dog cuss our players and coaches every move they made under his breathe.

Now if Brenden would have been at the game with me this whole situation would have been avoided because he would have never let me get in someone's face like that.  I am so embarrassing.  haha But it happened and I am glad I did it because these players go through a lot of crap.  Whether they are on scholarship or not these players put in long hours, get yelled out by the coaches, get dogged by the media, and still have to go to school and live their lives as normal as possible.  I don't know how they do it.  I hope these players know that a true Auburn fan would never put them down like those two guys and half of the student section does.  A true Auburn man or woman stands up for their family and would never consider them any lower than themselves.

          "...I believe in a sound mind, in a sound body and a spirit that is not afraid, and in clean sports that
          develop these qualities... and because Auburn men and women believe in these things, I BELIEVE IN
          AUBURN AND LOVE IT!" ~Lines from the Auburn Creed, George Petrie

Hard Work Deserves a Reward

I am two semesters away from graduating and I cannot be more excited.  I stayed in Auburn every summer and took classes, I came in with 22 hours from Dual Enrollment classes, and I have managed to passed all my classes with mostly shining colors! And after seven and half years, I am a semester and half away from graduation.  Since all this hard work was put in on the front end, I believe it is time to reward myself.

This semester I am taking nine hours and next semester I am taking eight hours.  This light load is not because I want to make my life any easier.  Lord knows I am busy with millions of other things.  No, the light load is because those are the only classes I have left until I graduate from college.  I put in the work in the beginning and was able to make it less stressful so I could focus on finding a job, enjoying my last year as a college student, and really focus on my upper level classes.

A simple joke this semester has been about my light class load but another joke from the past three years I have been in the Hospitality Management program is, "Oh, you are here to get your MRS degree." While I have met an amazing guy, I do not plan on living my life through his to make sure I can stay afloat.  I am an independent person and I plan on living that way for a while.  I am in Hospitality Management because it is what I am passionate about.  I love serving others and meeting others expectations.  I guess this came about because I always had to have everything my way when I was little.  Now, hopefully, I can give guests exactly what they want and more.

This major is by no means easy.  Yes, it may be more interesting than watching fungus grow in a lab, or punching numbers into a calculator, or listening to children scream all day, but you made your choice to do those things with your life.  I made my career choice in enjoying the finer things in life.  So the next time you call my major an "MRS" degree or an easy way out of college, think to yourself, where would I stay on the business trips I have to go on for my job if it wasn't for that degree, where would you eat, would there be such a thing as vacation? Probably not!

Why Should You Not Be Motivated?

Lately, people have said to me "You are so positive." "You are so motivated." "How do you do everything you do?" Most of the time my response is, "No I'm not. I just know how to time manage my time." When really I should just say, "Yeah, I guess I am." Without motivation from people in my life I would not make it through some of my days.

I like to stay busy. I like having numerous things to do and challenging myself to get all those things done in one day. But without someone saying to me "You can do it." every once in a while I would be really down sometimes. It's a nice reminder to know that there are people around me that want to support me and want to help me through life.

But you have to have a drive within you as well. I feel very blessed in my life. I'm healthy, have great friends and family, I have a part time job, and I could not ask for anything more. I think about the people in this world who aren't as blessed as me. That motivates me to be the best I can be. How could I be miserable when I don't have anything to complain about?

Yes, I have problems. But dwelling on them isn't going to help me. And those extra pushes from those special people in my life that just tell me that one sentence "You can do it." make the world of difference in those situations. I hope you all can find those special people in your life so you are able to make the most out of your life.

God bless,

Kayla

Fears

Everyone has fears and most of the time no one can understand why someone would have that fear unless they both share the same fear.  But how do we get fear in our lives? From past experiences, from reading/watching books/movies, or is it because of the unknown? Whatever it may be, we all have a fear of something.

Today on my short run, I began to think about fears that people have.  Heights, being alone, spiders, love, etc.  Then I began to think of all the fears I have when I run.  What if I get hit by a car? What if I get hurt on my run and no one stops to help me? What if I run by someone else and they hurt me? What if my house is broken into while I'm running? What if I get bitten by a dog? What happens? I realize most of these fears are a little childish but then the quote "Everything happens for a reason" ran through my head.  Does everything happen for a reason? I began to ponder this.

I believe most things happen for a reason.  Every situation that is put in front of you has some impact on your life.  Whether it be breaking a bone, being hurt by someone else, or losing someone.  The troublesome part is why it happens.  Most of the time we will never know why something so wrong could happen to us, someone that doesn't deserve these types of pains.  I guess we just have to live with what we have.  This task is simple for me because I haven't discovered much pain in my life but for others this could easily break them down.  Right now, in my life, without experiencing my hurt, I can say stay strong.  Know that there is someone out there, even if it is just one person, that will love you until your last day.

Facing my fears,

Kayla

September 11th, 2001

Today marks the 10 year reunion of the biggest tragedy I've ever experienced in my life.  I was in the 6th grade when the world trade center towers fell to the ground.  It was a unusual Tuesday because by lunch time no one was in school.  There was enough to keep all the teachers and faculty there but it seemed so empty.  In eighth period, the last period of the day, Mr. Berry told the four out of twenty-five kids left what was going on.  The middle school decided it would be better if we did not know what was going on so the teachers weren't allowed to say anything about the matter.  But with five minutes left of school Mr. Berry, my history teacher, told us what had happened that morning.

I began to walk home right after this thinking, what is the world trade center? What is a terrorist attack? Why did everyone check out because of that? When I got home, my mom was sitting on her bed watching the news.  For an hour I sat there and watched the news trying to figure out what this problem was all about.  Mom tried to explain it to me but a little 6th grader who has no idea what a terrorist attack is doesn't listen very well.

On the one year anniversary, I was in Mr. Ward's government and civics class when an announcement came over the intercom to stand for a moment of silence in remembrance of all the people we lost on that day.  I remember standing there praying and hoping that everything in the world would go back to normal.  Since that day, in 2001, things have never been the same.  Walking home after school isn't an option.  Playing in the neighborhood until 8 or 9 at night is not an option anymore.  Watching your Dad fly off to a conference at the gate is not an option.  Being carefree is not an option.

I am forever grateful for the service men and women who lost their lives on that day.  I look up to those families who have spent the last 10 years trying to explain to their children what happened and make it through this crazy world alone.  I am inspired by the strength those people had who worked in the world trade centers.  It can't be easy to be in a building knowing you are going to die and there is nothing you can do about it.  This day will forever be embedded in my heart.  September 11th changed this nation but we will always be united because of that day.  Tragedy makes faith grow stronger and that's exactly what this country needs every single day.


*This blog is written in remembrance of the September 11, 2001 victims and their families.*

Family Matters

"Other things may change us, but we start and end with the family." -Anthony Brandt

Family. They are the people that know you the best.  They are the ones who will always be there no matter what.  They are always going to love you no matter how stupid your choices may be.  Yes, you having falling outs with family members and may not speak for years at a time.  Sometimes you may never speak again and other times the distance made your relationship stronger. 

Sometimes your family drives you crazy.  Sometimes you don't want to be anything like them.  Sometimes you wish you could be as far away from them as possible.  But without family, what would you be?  

Family isn't just your mom, dad, brother, and sister.  Family is the people that raised you and the people that cared for you when no one else would.  Everyone's family is a little different.  Rather it be in the people or the characteristics of their family.

Don't take your family for granted.  You never know when the last time to see them might be.  Even if you are trying to be selfish and do your own thing, make time for your family.  They make you a priority, so you should too.

What happens when you add people to your family? How does the puzzle fit? I'm sure it's a complicated situation and not everyone ends up happy.  Compromise seems like the best option but I have no experience in this situation.  Thinking further in the future, I think about combining holiday's, not having favorites, balancing my time, and making sure everyone's happy.  I have plenty of time to think about these things but I just had these thoughts rolling through my head.

Main point: don't let your family go without letting them know how much you appreciate them and how much they do for your life.  You wouldn't be where you are today if it wasn't for your mom giving birth to you, your dad helping make you, and your family members raising you, you wouldn't have gotten very far without those precious people.  Every person you come in contact with has an effect on your life but family makes a huge dent in the whole picture.

Kayla

Lifting Weights

I am debating with myself about strength training.  Most magazines I read say that strength training is necessary to keep your muscles strong and growing.  After a certain age though, muscle density begins to lessen every year.  A lot of trainers say you cannot lose weight unless you add strength training into your cardio workouts.

I have lifted weights since the eighth grade.  Every summer my high school required student athletes to attend 30 workouts throughout the summer.  These workouts consisted of an hour of cardio (ex: sprints, stadiums, long distance, intervals, etc) and one hour of lifting weights.  I loved lifting when I was in high school.  Max day was my favorite.  I was so competitive with myself that I would push my body to limits it probably shouldn't have been going as a 15 year old.  My squat max as a 15 year old girl, 125 lbs, 5'4" was 185 lbs! I must say that is a little ridiculous for a 15 year old to be lifting.

I would never consider myself fat in high school.  Yes, I had baby fat but most of all I had muscle mass.  So after high school, I banned weights from my workouts completely.  I ran occasionally, ate what I wanted to, and went to the student act once or twice a month.  So my workout routine went from working out everyday for 2 hours with cardio and weights to once a week just doing cardio.  Freshman year I lost 15 pounds of baby fat and mostly muscle mass.  I had no big arms anymore (my biceps actually fit in a fitted t-shirt), my tights finally fit in jeans without leaving lines on them when I took them off, and I was happy with the way I looked.

Until last year,  I was still eating whatever I wanted and doing the rare workout.  I decided I wanted to be toned again.  So I began training for a half-marathon.  My legs (I must say) were to die for! My calves were finally sitting up high instead of 2 baby calves looking for their momma cow! But I still didn't have the definition I wanted.

So I go back to my first paragraph where all of my fitness magazines tell me that weight lifting needs to be apart of your usual workout.  At least two times a week.  I tried P90X last summer hoping that would change things and I got huge (muscle wise).  I think some women gain muscle differently than other women.  There is nothing wrong with that but how do you determine what is good enough for your body?

Today I attended a BodyPump class by Les Mills at my gym (Gold's Gym).  I'm always afraid this class is just going to make me bulk.  I think I've decided to incorporate it into my weekly workout routine once a week.  I just want to see what it does for me and if it will truly help me tone all the places I want toned.  Give me your feedback on how you feel about lifting weights.  Does it help you, does it make you bulk, just tell me what you think.

Hope you enjoyed the blog,

Kayla

Understanding Health & Fitness Articles

Do you become overwhelmed by all the health information that is out there to read and implement in your life?  I know I do.  I read a lot of fitness/health magazines and Yahoo! articles that tell me to eat this and not that.  Don't drink that but drink this and every article says something different to substitute. How can you make sure you are doing all the right things for your body with so much information?

I take it one article/step at a time. Exercise is easy for me to follow.  If an article says try these new exercises to flatten your tummy or lift your butt and tone your legs, I try them at least once or twice.  Nutrition is where I fall short.  I have a mega sweet tooth and a fascination with drinking wine.  All the magazines say that you should do these things in moderation.  Then other articles say but only dark chocolate and only red wine.  Limiting myself to what I can eat and can't eat makes me fall of course even more.  So I do take in moderation but not to the specifics.... to anything I feel like having.  

Another article I read says to treat yourself nicely when you fall of track.  It makes it easier to get back on track.  I tend to be pretty hard on myself and tend to push it 100% harder in my next workout.  Or I lay on the floor and do crunches while I spoon feed myself ice-cream.  Another great article says to limit yourself 100-calorie intake of sweets a day.  A few years ago, I never ever could have done that.  But now with all the 100-calorie pack treats and super sweet yogurt that says it has 33% of your daily fiber but tastes like the fattening smoothies you use to drink as a kid, it makes it easier to do those sorts of tricks.

But instead of becoming overwhelmed with everything the magazines/TV/articles tell you about health and nutrition, implement one article at a time.  Soon they become habits and the rules are a little easier to follow.  Think of each article as a goal, reach it, and you will feel so accomplished.

Taking it step by step,

Kayla 

Schedules

There is something about having a schedule that makes life so much better.  It may be the structure it provides to your life, the accomplishment of doing something that day, or just knowing you won't be lying around doing nothing with your life.  Some people (free spirits) may not like having schedules and set agendas because it inhibits them to explore life.  My schedule allows me to explore life even more because I know what I need to get done and at what time it needs to get done.  I just hope after college my job (if applicable) provides me the same satisfaction of crossing things off my "To Do List".

Another great thing about schedules is it keeps you accountable.  Don't feel like working out today or feel like doing it later? Setting a time to workout or attending a fitness class makes you workout.  Even if you don't feel like going and putting in the effort, go anyway because it's on your schedule of course and I promise you won't regret it afterwards.

I don't understand the art of procrastination like most people do.  If I have something on my schedule, no matter what it is, it will be accomplished way in advance of the due date.  Post-poning activities is not an option for me.  Flexibility in schedules is a good thing and I might move a few things around to make it flow better.  But waiting until the last minute to get things done has never been my style.  Some people call this "being a nerd".  I call it "productivity".

So get a planner or a calendar or a bright stack of Post-Its or all of them and start making schedules.  Your life will have so much more joy.  At least if your a planner (like me).  You free spirits... I have no idea how you make it through your days.  I commend you on making it this far in life!

Blog written... Check.

-Kayla

Summertime is Coming to an End

WOW!!! This summer could not have been any better.  What a way to end summer-hood... next year there might not be a summer (cross your fingers there won't be one... meaning I'll have a job!).  Let's have a recap on this whirlwind of a summer.

I began my summer in Napa Valley, California.  What a way to kick off the summer.  I learned so much about the wine industry and met people that gave me the realization that anything can happen.  After Napa, I came home and went straight back to Auburn for SOS and a week or so after that I started two classes that lasted for six weeks! I got an A in one and a B in the other.  I took a break for three weeks to work, travel and visit people and places, read and lay out.  Then I got bored really quickly so sporadically signed up for a class that has lasted TEN days!  This class has allowed me to appreciate beverages but has also ended my summer the same way I started it.  WOW!  Tomorrow this class ends and summer is almost over.  With two more weeks left, I plan to go to the beach for one week to relax and get ready for my last year of college and the second week come to Oxford to visit with my family since I was only able to go home once this summer.

Just because those are the events that happened this summer doesn't mean that is all that happened.  I learned a lot about myself during this short summer.  Some were good things and the other things I realized that weren't so good and so I began to make a change.  I realized that space is a good thing.  Not too much, but enough that you can still be your own person.  Spending every moment with someone makes you forget how special the people in your life are.  "Distance makes the heart grow fonder"  Now I understand this quote.  I also learned that in a time of need it is okay to ask for help.  Trying to be "grown-up" and "independent" is not heroic.  Having people in your life to support you and back you up in decisions, problems, and down times is key to making it through this life.  Do not walk alone.  It's not as fun without someone to laugh and cry with you.

Take a moment and reflect on your summer.  It has gone by with a blink of an eye.  It's weird to think this time next year I will be a "big girl" and out in the real world by myself.  But really, I won't be alone because I have some very special people in my life that I know will be with me through anything.

Best Regards,

Kayla

My Passion

Have you ever had that moment where you realized exactly what you were made to do in this life?  Have you ever had that moment and then realized it may be too late?

I was sitting in class the other day listening to my professor lecture on America's obesity levels and how food has such an impact on our lives.  And as I listened to this lecture I began to realize that I started to ache inside my body. I wanted to do something about these numbers.  I had a burn inside of me to make a difference.  So, I started to drift from the main point of the lecture and caught myself thinking, "What if?" What if I had come to college and known how to study and manage my time better? What if I didn't make the decision to switch majors? Then a huge cloud of regret began to weigh on me.  I love my major and the things I am learning but for the past couple of days I've thought what if I had stayed in Nutrition & Health? I could have easily fulfilled my passion.

If you haven't caught on yet, I have discovered that my passion is to inspire people, motivate people, and help people realize how important nutrition, exercise, and mental stability are.  To target my passion, obesity has weighed heavily on my heart. The Biggest Loser is one of my favorite shows (Thanks Mom!) and those people inspire me more than these super skinny models and people who have always been fit.  They make me want to be better because they are making themselves better.  I want to help people who are having trouble making it all "click".  I want to inspire people to make themselves better.  Is this still possible with the study course I've chosen? I sure hope so.

I am hoping to make my first move towards this goal by becoming certified in a spin class or aerobics instructor.  After graduation, I hope I can find a career that stays within the boundaries of Hospitality Management because quality service is another huge passion of mine but staying parallel with nutrition and health.  I don't like to say that I have regrets so I am going to make the best out of everything I have.  I may not have chosen to study Nutrition & Health but taking Food & Beverage Management courses and Food Production classes, I have a feeling my major is going to help me find exactly what I need to do.

Reaching for the stars,

Kayla

Forgive and Forget

Why can I not seem to let the past be in the past? Learn from it and move on? When I have free time I often think about my past and how I wish I could go back and change everything that has ever changed me for the worse.  I have rejection issues because of problems I faced in high school.  I have jealousy issues because of boys I dated.  I have a need to please people, make everyone happy, and completely disregard my feelings because of manipulative people that have been in my life.

The saying "forgive and forget" is such an easy statement to say but it is extremely hard to believe.  I have forgiven everyone who has ever hurt me in my past.  The only thing is I can't forget about everything that has happened and how it has effected who I am today.  I want so badly to put everything and everyone that is from my past behind me and continue moving forward.  Somedays are great and not the slightest memory will pass through my head.  But other days, on the the long, nothing to do except run days, I think about everything that has ever hurt me.  I get mad, upset, disappointed in myself, and it takes me a while to just stop torturing myself.

Someone asked me last week, are you honest with yourself? I believe I'm extremely honest with myself.  Sometimes too honest.  I could live without the negative thoughts running through my head on these low days.  I write most of my blogs to remind myself to stay strong, motivated, and happy and to help other people that might be going through the same thing.  Today I write this blog to be able to look back and see that bad days can happen and I have to find a way to let the past be in the past.  I have to continue looking forward and never turning back because my future is bright.  Auburn, the people I've met here, and the things I have learned, and God have shown me I don't need to look back because my future is going to be great.  The present already is.  Taking one day at a time is much better than dreaming into the future.  Before, I could only hope for the day I would be this happy.  Even on my low days, I'm still way happier than I ever was in my past.  I'm grateful for the lessons I have learned through all of the trials but I just hope there is a way to let everything go.

Moving forward,

Kayla

Childhood to Adulthood

Lately I've been thinking a lot about how everything in your life effects who you become.  The people you have spent your time with, the habits you created as a child, and the things you spend your time doing have all had an effect on how your personality is shaped, your values, and your physical self.

Being a 2-year-old seems like the perfect life.  Your parents took care of you, fed you, bathed you, and someone was always watching over you.  Every decision your parents made for you as child effected who you became today.  Stay at home mom, being an only child, the house structure you lived in all had an effect on your mind, body, and spirit.  How amazing.  I can't even recollect what my life was like for the first five years of my existence.

But as we get older and start to reflect on our childhood, you can see where something had a certain effect on you.  Being picked on in school probably made you have rejection problems or commitment issues.  Getting whatever you wanted as a young child made you demand things as an adult (and made you a huge brat).  Building relationships with other kids at a young age effected who you chose to be your friends today.  Most of these things are imbedded in us and rooted so deep that it is almost impossible to change who we truly are.  BUT we can better ourselves.  It takes work but it is possible.  You may always have the tendency to put people down to make yourself feel better but you can make a conscious effort to think about what you say to people before you throw them under the bus.

Another problem that really bothers me is over eating.  No one is obese because they want to be or because they love food that much.  Obesity is a disease and has a psychological meaning behind it.  Over eating can become an addiction and take over who you are.  Making fun of someone who is fat is not going to help their problem.  To help fight the disease you have to dig deep to find the real meaning behind eating that much food or that poorly of food.  I am a sucker for sweets and french fries but I make a conscious effort to limit myself and take care of it in the gym shortly after.  It is amazing to me how quickly pounds can add up if you do not do something about them.  Prime example is the Freshman 15.  Without work to keep the weight off, it is extremely easy to pack on the pounds because fast food is offered in the student centers and if there is free food at an event on campus I can promise you it won't be salmon and asparagus.  It will be a greasy pizza from Hungry Howie's because it's cheap and will feed a lot of people.  Making that conscious effort to take care of yourself will make you a happier person.  Fight through the addiction and do something for yourself.  If you are not obese be lucky you have everything in the right state of mind.  If you have come from obesity and are fighting the fight we all fight everyday, keep up the hard work.  I promise it pays off at the end of everyday you fight.

Make these decisions when you are younger or if you are a parent, soon to be parent, or college kid thinking about kids one day.  Know that every decision you make effects you or somebody else.  Don't be so over protective you can't experience life but realize that there is a reason things are in your life and they can shape you in many different ways.  Only you know who you are and what changed your life for the good or bad.  Make smart choices.  You only have one life to live and it is imperative you make the most of it.  Becoming an adult is a lot more informative than I would have ever thought (because I knew everything in high school [sarcastic voice]).  I learn something new about myself everyday.  I can see how the things that happened in my younger years effected everything I have and want today and in the future.  Continue reaching for the stars and developing yourself because it is intriguing to learn knew things about yourself and about life in general.

Dreaming big,

Kayla

The Past Year

It's been a long time since I last blogged.  I finished summer classes and have been working and traveling for the last couple of weeks.  I went home for Father's Day, had company in Auburn the next weekend and I went to Destin this weekend for the Fourth of July.

As I was in Destin, I began to reflect on how fast this year has gone by.  A year ago a few weeks ago my parents put my Dad's dog to sleep.  I remembered this this weekend because my Mom called my boyfriend to break the news to me because she knows how much I love animals that I wouldn't take the news lightly over the phone.  Also a year ago this weekend I lost someone who was a dear friend to me and my family, Dr. Lynch.  His family touched my life in so many ways and he had such an impact on who I was coming into college.  I still try to be the person he helped me be today but I find myself slipping back in to my old ways.  Dr. Lynch also encouraged me to run and finish what I always wanted to do.  With that motivation, I completed my first half-marathon this year and am currently training for my second one right now.  I was also reminded how fast this year has gone by when my boyfriend's mom asked me how long we had been together.  A year and a half in a week.  The time sure has flown.

Starting this blog has helped me grow as a person and remember all the feelings I've endured in these last few months.  I hope it continues to inspire people and maybe teach them something about themselves that maybe they did not realize until reading a blog post.  Lesson of this blog is to not take life for granted.  I have never realized how fast time flies until I reached college.  The last four years have been the best times of my life and they have certainly passed quicker than any other time in my life.  Live in the moment and do not live for the future or in the past.  Life is too short to take waste the precious time we have been given.

Living life to the fullest,

Kayla

Father's Day

Father's Day means different things to different people.  Everything that has happened in our lives thus far has had an impact on how we celebrate father's day.  Some people do not have a father figure and chose to celebrate someone who played that role for them in their lives. Some have a father but do not have a relationship with him because of damages he may have caused or they may have caused.  Others have lost their father and this day is extremely hard for them. And many of us have a father so special that on this day we take the time to honor him and think about how we should celebrate him more than just on this day.

I fall into the last category.  My dad has always been in my life and actively apart of it.  He is such a special man and I could not have asked for any better Dad! When we were younger he was the tickle monster.  I would run away because I would be tickled for hours.  When I got a little older he let me get up with him and eat breakfast and watch Sportscenter before he left for work.  When he would leave, he would always wink at me and I spent years trying to learn how to do that! [I've finally got it down pat! ;)]  Then I became a teenager and my dad was my worst enemy.  We would fight and fight and fight him but little did I know he only did and said these things to protect me.  Now, I'm in college and take my Daddy for granted all the time.  He still spoils me, does anything and everything for me, has bought me three cars in the five years I've had a license, and supports and loves me in everything I do.  I always notice these things and say thank you but I never realize how much all those little things mean to me until this day every year, Father's Day.

To the best Daddy in the world, thank you for always being there for me.  Even though we don't talk as much as I wish (that's my fault!) I love you more and more everyday.  You are always trying to make me a better person and because of you I know what love is suppose to be like.  You make me smile and brighten my days when I'm lost and confused about this whole growing up thing.  Thank you again for EVERYTHING you do for me.  I cannot wait to see you this weekend.  I really don't see you guys enough!

Love,

Kayla

Excuses, Excuses, Excuses

When ever something doesn't go the way we plan or things don't get done when they need to get done we, as humans, make up excuses.  It's the easiest way to cover our own mistakes but the excuses more than likely will involve another party.  Examples: "I can't workout today.  I'm a mother of little kids and I work." "I made a bad grade on that test because my friends made me go out." "I can't pay you now because my boss hasn't given me my check yet." In all reality those are all your own fault.

It is time to start taking responsibility for our actions.  Excuses should not be the reason why we don't do something that needs to get done.  Other people are definitely not the reason you did not do what you were suppose to do because if you really wanted to do something, you would make time to do it.  So is it the excuse that justifies why things don't get done or is it adding someone else into the excuse that makes it okay? Personally, there is no other excuse except yourself.  You can make time to workout if you really want to workout.  No one makes you do anything.  You have the option to make a smart decision and stay in and study or the dumb decision and party so hard you can't even remember what class you have a test in.  Not having the money to pay bills is your own fault for not saving your money.  Instead you went out and bought a magazine subscription, Sonic's Happy Hour drinks, dinner with your friends including margaritas.... you had the money, you just chose to spend it elsewhere.

If you find that you make excuses for everything take a step back and re-evaluate why you really didn't workout, make good grades, or pay your bills on time.  There is a real reason and it probably has something to do with yourself.  Take responsibility for your own actions and get things done.  Procrastination is a terrible problem.  The only time I ever find myself procrastinating is when I have something to do that I have absolutely no interest in doing.  An easy fix, do those things first.  The quicker you get the not so appealing tasks out of the way the more time you have to enjoy everything you actually wanted to do in the day.  So stop making excuses.  It's only rational if you admit to being the problem and even then it should bother you so much that you don't make an excuse anymore and you get done what you set out to do.

No more excuses,

Kayla

Communication

How important is communication? Is it possible to have zero communication with someone and still have a connection with them? I personally don't think so.  I don't know how to function without communication.  I think that is why I blog, Facebook, Twitter, text, email, call, etc.  I do not like to not be connected to people.  People make me happy and happy people make me happier! Making people happy makes me the happiest, but when communication falls short what do you do?

I am probably not the best communicator.  Maybe I should have majored in communications to learn how to communicate.  I wonder if I'm terrible at communication because I always have to be right or because I am so spoiled I only want things my way.  I don't know but those two characteristics are probably not good to have when making people happy is what makes me the happiest.  They seem to clash, don't you think?

How do you communicate exactly what you want? How do you express who you are through communication? Why does arguing seem to never solve anything? That's communication isn't it?  I'm so confused right now because communication keeps failing me.  You can't get things across the exact way that you want to via technology.  It will never happen.  Things are always misinterpreted and then it makes communication go sour.  Maybe that is why I'm such a terrible communicator because the only way I communicate is via technology.  Even so, I don't know how to express things differently to get my point across.  Even if technology fails me on almost all occasions I am a horrible....

It just hit me what may be my problem.  Listening.  I do not take the time to listen to people when they talk.  It is always about me talking and getting the most out of the conversation.  Why can I not be a selfless person? I'm so frustrated with myself right now and I know this blog is making no sense.  I treat this blog like a journal so this entry is one of those blogs I'm trying to figure out who I am.  I just hope that one day I can figure out how to be selfless, a good listener, and an even better communicator.  Pray for me as I seek help in these areas.  Maybe a nice run would help me get back on track.

Living and learning,

Kayla

"Do I Know You?"

Do you every do the awkward stare thinking I know that person but I don't know if they know me?  I do that a lot!! I guess I'm afraid of "rejection".  I put in quotation marks to use the term loosely.  I do not like to be wrong or feel wrong so I guess seeing someone I know and if they do not know me could be a form of rejection.

Another reason I might do that awkward look is because I'm just hoping I have the right name.  Most of the time I do I just don't want to make a fool out of myself by not saying the right name.  But another thing that I need to work on is knowing that you know someone and you know they know you too but you don't want to say hey because it's been forever since you have seen them last and then what do you say to them.  I think this is the most awkward situation out of all of these scenarios.

But why are they so awkward? For some people none of this seems awkward it just seems silly that you wouldn't just say what is on your mind.  Other people might agree with me or other people are reading this thinking does she have a point.  Yes, I do.

The only way to grow in life and meet new people is by taking that leap of faith and talking to the people you probably know and they know you too you are just scared to say the first word.  This world, I think, is built on relationships.  Without communication we cannot learn what is going on, who people are, how they tick and so on.  So what I'm saying to all of you and to myself is say something.  The worst that can happen is they look at you strange and then you can continue the conversation by finding a new friend or building a relationship that was lost along the way of this crazy hectic life! The more people in your life the happier, I personally feel, you will be.

Happy Talking,

Kayla

Money, Money, Money

Don't you wish you had all the money in the world? I know I do.  When I sit down and write out how many things I want, need, and desire to have, there is no way I will ever be able to obtain all that I want.  Money just seems to rule everything we do.  I was very blessed growing up that my parents never made money a reason why I could not do something.  They always pushed me to do and be whatever it was I wanted to be.  Isn't it weird how parents are the ones that suffer when they are the ones that worked for all the money they spend on their kids? I know children have a lot of rewards but right now I think I'm to selfish to think about kids.  There are so many things I want to do and see and experience and buy that I cannot imagine working eight to five everyday and the money I earned going straight to someone else.  I must give you parents mad props for being so selfless.  Maybe one day I will get to that point.

But why does money seem to control everything we do? Every decision you make, more than likely, one of the reasons you decided on anything/something is because money was in the back of your mind.  It seems to never leave us.  I just finished balancing my check book (Yes I do that. I know you are proud Mom. haha) and noticed I have sporadic sprees of spending money.  There are four or five days where I won't spend anything and then one day there are ten charges to the most random places.  I do not know why that happens or how it happens because it seems like I spend money every single day on something.

Whether we like it or not money is always going to have control over us.  I'm just curious to figure out how we let ourselves get this "Money is King" attitude.  Either way, there is one thing my parents have always taught me: save! It seems silly because there are so many things I want/need/desire right now that I do not know what the point is.  But because I'm not in high school anymore and my parents aren't out to get me they probably know what they are talking about.  Finances are only beginning to start for me but I know they are not something to take lightly.  Saving is a huge deal and it will only benefit me in the long run.  Another thing my parents have not pushed but highly encouraged of me is to try Dave Ramsey.  If anyone of you are worried about having financial problems or do he is the perfect person to help.  Go to daveramsey.com and try the 7 Baby Steps to becoming Financial Stable.

Best of luck to all of you out there.  We are all fighting a money battle!

Kayla

Looking Back

WOW, how time flies.  My sister is officially a senior in high school.  Ryan has finished his freshman year and I will be looking for real jobs in less than a year.  I feel like it was just yesterday we were all playing in the streets with Logan until 8pm when Mom would yell at us to come in.  (GOOD TIMES!)

Now that I have been in college for almost four years and I have had the amazing opportunity to help transfer students get acquainted with Auburn and helped Freshman students figure out what classes they should take to help them succeed in the next four years, I've had some time to reflect on how much I wish I would have known and figure out just how much I have learned.

Coming into Auburn I really wish I would have known just how fast those four years really go.  People always tell you, "It will be here before you know it" but you really have no idea how fast it sneaks up on you.  Even though I still have one more year left, I just keep thinking about how fast these last three went by and I know this year is going to go even faster.  And with the time flying by so fast, you really have to enjoy every minute of it.  For the most part, I feel like I've done that.  I did things I never thought I would do and I learned so much about myself in the passing time.  I tried out for numerous clubs my freshman year with unsuccessful attempts.  I died my hair on numerous occasions with my first best friend at Auburn, Morgan.  I joined a sorority which I never thought I would do but I met the most amazing girls and I do not know where I would be without them.

Doing all these things taught me a lot about myself.  People can tell you who you are all the time but you won't truly know who you are until you do things for yourself.  Do things that make you uncomfortable (but that you know are moral, lol).  Do not NOT do something because a significant other things you shouldn't do it.  If they really love you they will support you with whatever decision you make.  Take advantage of every opportunity placed in front of you because you never know what the future may hold.

Coming into freshman year, I thought I knew everything (on the outside) but really I didn't know a thing.  The year from graduating high school to ending freshman year made me realize just how much I really did not know.  Ask for help, get to know your professors (they will help you get jobs! They know people!), get involved, study but do not turn down the opportunities to go places with friends, and most importantly do not forget who you are.  First off, learn who you are and then stay true to yourself.  You might find out you are nothing like who you were in high school and that's okay.  I discovered that and I think I'm doing better now that I have could of dreamed for myself to do in high school.

To my sister who is about to start her senior year: Do not live in regret.  Remember that there is a bigger world outside of Oxford, AL! It's huge and there is so much to do and see!

To my brother who is in the midst of a wonderful college career: keep doing what you are doing but do not be afraid to do something out of your comfort zone.  Try new things and enjoy every second of everything you do! You will be a senior before I can blink!

And to all my readers: read this blog again if you ever find yourself not living life to the fullest.  Be happy and do not let things bring you down.  Grudges, fights, bickering, complaining and negativity will not give you what you want.  Stay positive, happy, and smiling.  Even if you are having a rough day, putting a smile on your face will always make it better.

Until Next Time,

Kayla

Summer and School Shouldn't Mix

It has been quite some time since I last wrote.  Since I got home from California, I feel like I haven't slowed down.  School started four days after we got back and the school work hasn't stopped.  School finishes the last week of June and I cannot wait.  It is weird to think in one year, I will not have any classes left to take.  I will actually be able to do what I want when I want (after the work day of course).

Why is working so scary for some people? Yes, it is what you will be doing for the rest of your life so I can see how that could get boring but to have the time to clean, cook, workout, shop, travel, etc. just seems more relaxing than stressing over a textbook.  There is an importance to learn and I completely agree with getting an education but I think I'm much better suited for the workforce.  I have had a job since the age of 16 and it has always been something I've enjoyed doing.  School on the other hand has always seemed like a task.

This blog really has no meaning.  I've been wanting to write for a few days now but I have been searching for the right thing to blog about.  The only thing that seems to be on my mind is summer, classes, and graduations.  I have been to two graduations in the past week and I take away something different from every ceremony.  Graduation is such a special time.  It is signing off on a chapter you have lived in for so long and beginning a brand new chapter.  Your life is like one big chapter book.  We go through stages in our lives and in every chapter we learn and develop more into the people we are meant to be.  I love starting over.  Having a blank page and a new story to write makes me feel like I have the world at my fingertips.  After graduation, take risks.  Find out who you are and stay true to that.

So in conclusion, get an education, stay focused, do what you want, and live for today.  Enjoy your time on Earth because you never know how long you will be here.  I use to live for the future but I finally find myself enjoying the present and taking each day one step at a time.

Until Next Time,

Kayla

California Wine Tour: Day 6

I cannot believe today was our last day of the wine tour.  It was an outstanding day and couldn't have ended the trip any better.  This morning we woke up early and headed to Bouchon Bakery which is owned by Thomas Keller.  He also owns and operates The French Laundry if you are familiar with that.  We enjoy fresh croissants and freshly brewed coffee.  Chef Matthew showed us around their tiny property and also gave us a kitchen tour of The French Laundry.  Also while we were in Yountville, we were able to tour The French Laundry's garden.  Yes, this restaurant is so prestige it needs it's own garden.  This garden was massive and everything is grown organic.  They make a list of availability of items the night before and the chef changes the menu daily based on the availability of items.  In the morning, the gardener harvests the crops and walks across the street for the kitchen to beginning cooking for 70 tables.

After our visit at the fabulous bakery, we headed to Domaine Carneros.  This winery is owned by Tattinger in France.  Tattinger (as most of you know) is a famous champagne company.  One cool thing I learned this week is that the only difference between champagne and sparkling wine is the name.  The only reason it is called sparkling wine is because of the treaty in the 1930's that prohibited the US from naming their sparkling wine champagne.  This wine was unlike anything we had had all week because it was sparkling.  Everything we've enjoyed has been stilled.  The interesting thing about sparkling wine is that the fermentation process happens within the bottle to build carbon dioxide.  The bottles are stored sideways and the cage they are located in shakes once every three to four hours and then turns the cage upside down.

After Domaine Carneros, we were finally able to relax and enjoy an all american lunch.  We had lunch at a place called Gatto's Roadside.  This place is famous for the hamburgers and milkshakes.  I did not get a milkshake but their hamburger was absolutely delicious.  And of course I got a side order of french fries and man were they delicious.  They also offered garlic fries and after I got my lunch figured I probably should have ordered those for my Mom's sake.  This meal could not have come at a better time in this trip because I was craving some usual (typical) food.

Leaving the fabulous burger joint, we headed over to the Culinary Institute of America (CIA).  Today was graduation and instead of graduation caps, they throw their chef's hat.  Pretty cute.  Their gift shop was amazing and we learned about classes they have that specialize just in Beverages and Wine.  These classes are very serious but help with catapulting your career to the next level.

From 3:00pm to 9:40pm, we spent our last night at Trinchero.  This family and estate were so welcoming and taught us all soo much.  We learned how to pair food and wine and how to smell different aromas.  We enjoyed a short reception and then chowed down on the delicious dinner.  After dinner, every student stood up and said what the trip meant to them and thanked all the people involved.  I honestly didn't think I would become emotional but man it was a tear jerker.

This trip has seriously changed me more than anyone will every know.  I have this opportunistic look on life.  I honestly feel my horizon has been expanded and I can see that there is so much this world has to offer.  There is no point in doing anything in life if you do not have a passion for it.  Without the passion and education you have nothing to fulfill your life.  Living life to the fullest is definitely my mentality now.  There is no reason to be miserable in something that you easily have control over.  I'm taking away from this trip so many valuable lessons and one of them is the importance of giving back.  We talked a lot about this tonight at dinner but I can only hope I'll be well enough off that I am able to donate to this program and give students the exact same opportunity these donors gave us.

So blessed,

Kayla

California Wine Tour: Day 5

Wow, this week has gone by fast.  I could tell today that my body physically and mentally was completely worn out.  This marathon keeps testing me but I’m still trying to soak up every moment I can.

This morning, bright and early, we took a trip to Seguin Moreau.  This is the number one barrel company in the US and France.  They use French oak and American oak.  The men that make the barrels are called coopers.  After a cooper crafts barrels completely by hand (with no machine) for four years, they earn the name Master Cooper.  Today we were shown how to change a staff out and rebuild the barrel to make sure that it wouldn’t leak.  Seguin Moreau is completely sustainable and you might think that is weird since they cut down trees for their product.  But the French government overlooks everything they do in France and they can regulate the sustainable rules.  I have a lot of respect for barrel making now and can really appreciate aged wine in barrels.  Seguin Moreau sells 90,000 barrels a year but only 2% of the whole wine industry is barrel fermented.  

After the cooperage, we took an hour and a half drive to Sonoma County and pulled onto 1,700 acres on MacMurray Ranch.  This is the property I was in charge of studying and found out a lot of great information before coming there but nothing can compare to actually seeing the ranch.  We were able to walk through the two original barns that Fred MacMurray (Hollywood star in My Three Sons) built.  Also, we walked through the MacMurray’s house with all the furniture that was originally in the house.  This property has so much history and was extremely special to see especially since I studied it before hand.  Bridget was our host today.  She works for E & J Gallo, which is the company that owns the MacMurray Ranch.  I took so many pictures at this place because it was absolutely stunning.   I can only wish one day my everyday will consist of sitting on a wrap around porch sipping wine and looking out to beautiful property.

Leaving MacMurray Ranch we had about a thirty-minute drive to the restaurant Cyrus.  This restaurant was extreme luxury.  The Maître d’hôtel, Nick, was very nice in explaining their history and giving us advice on how to go about designing and taking a risk in being an entrepreneur for the restaurant business.   His executive chef, Chef Douglas, was very VERY honest about what he sees in the restaurant business and how he is also changing the menu to help cut food cost and make the biggest profit.  We only spent an hour there but learned a lot from this two gentlemen.

The last (semi-last) place we went was Gene’s house owner and entrepreneur of Barbers Q.  This restaurant is designed off of Memphis BBQ and he wanted to bring the concept to California.  Before I get into the restaurant, Gene opened his house to us and we enjoyed a two-hour reception with Rob Sinskey’s wine from his vineyard.  After the reception and seeing his beautiful property, we headed to Barbers Q.  The restaurant as this ambiance about it that is very modern.  The music is fun and energetic.  The tables are black with silver chairs and silver flatware.  This is BBQ at it’s best.  My food baby was massive after dinner. 

This week I can almost guarantee I gained at least 5 pounds.  Coming back to Auburn is going to be great but I will definitely miss this place.  California, especially the wine industry and food industry, have so much to offer to a young hospitality graduate.  Moving out here would be like a dream.  Being young and taking risks is how we are going to become successful.  If we keep ourselves in Small Town, USA we won’t maximize our greatness.  And I know our group is going to do wonders for this industry.  I cannot wait to start looking for jobs and venturing out into this huge world.

Dreaming big,

Kayla

California Wine Tour: Day 4

Today was a marathon.  OMG! I should have trained a little bit more but I must say today has been another fabulous day.  We visited four wineries today.  Yes, all in a matter of 13 hours!!

The first winery we visited this morning at 9am was Opus One.  This winery is closed to the public unless you set up an appointment to tour the facility with a tour guide.  Michael, the winemaker, never speaks to the public and every year feels it is necessary to speak with our group.  How could we be so lucky? Opus One makes only one wine, Cabernet Sauvignon.  Michael is extremely intelligent and was pretty much way over my head with most of the words that he said.  But it was amazing to be in his presence and listen to the art of winemaking, different growing techniques, and the harvesting, sorting, and pressing process.  After we toured the fermentation room we were able to go into the tasting room that out looks the barrel room.  Michael revered to that window as the hospital window looking onto his babies.  I thought it was a great analogy for any winemaker.

The second winery we visited was Quintessa.  This winery was extremely special because we had Auburn's very own alumnus giving us the tour through the property.  Katie, the alumnus, actually went on this trip five years ago and visited Quintessa and came back during the summer after the trip to go through harvest and see what it takes to make this wine.  Quintessa also makes only one wine.  It is a blended wine (as is Opus One).  The winemaker, Charles, gave a very great insight on what Quintessa strives for in their wines.  It's nothing particular but it's what makes the best version of the grapes grown on the estate.  After visiting with Katie, Charles, and Gwen (the marketing director) we had lunch on the back porch of the proprietors house.  The Huneeus were extremely welcoming and were great company to sit with and talk to at lunch.  The Huneeus founded their land and planted the first grapes and are completely biodynamic in farming (which means they rely on the earth's energy to help the growth of the grapes [Opus One is also taking on this way of farming]).

The third winery we visited was Franciscan which is my favorite wine (at least before we came here) because of the price range and the quality it presents.  Franciscan is also a blended wine.  They produce Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley vintages and just released a brand called Magnificat in 2004.  This wine is a mix the three winemakers decide on together.  Every year is different (as Jay, one of the winemakers) said.  They aren't striving for a specific taste but for dynamics that make the wine stand out.  At Franciscan, our group participated in a blending competition.  We were able to make our own wines in two categories: drinkable wine (as in now, the present) and age able wine.  My group (Dr. O'Neill and Mrs. Sue) were in the category of drinkable wine.  We competed against three other groups that submitted wines and my blend won.  I made a 60% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 25% Malbec.  This exercise was a lot of fun and introduced us to a new side of wine making.  Also my prize for winning the competition was a magnum bottle of Magnificat.  My only worry now is how am I going to get it home?

The last place we visited tonight was a resort by the name of Solage Calistoga.  This property is one of seven in their company and is completely sustainable and organic (without the certification).  They strive for modernization and going green.  Their spa on the resort specializes in mud baths and the town of Calistoga is actually known for its mud baths.  At every villa, there are two bicycles that they provide for the guest to ride around the premises on.  After touring the property, we were able to talk to the General Manager Richard and a master sommelier, Emmanuel.  Emmanuel actually came to the hospitality gala this year as a featured winemaker so it was nice to see such a successful person in the industry again.  After mingling with them, we sat down at a huge table and enjoyed a four course meal! Every course paired with one of Emmanuel's wines.  We tasted a Sparking wine during the reception, a Chardonnay paired with oysters, a Pinot Noir paired with tuna, a Cabernet Sauvignon paired with short rib, and a Shyrah paired with goat cheese.  The dinner was absolutely divine!

The biggest lesson I learned today was that this industry is built off of hard work.  These things don't just happen for most of the people in this business.  The industry isn't just about passion; it's about education, passion, and hard work.  I definitely have much more appreciation for the wine I drink because of all the hard work that goes into making each wine to perfection.  I am taking more life lessons away from this trip that I could learn in a lifetime of working.  Thanks to our amazing donors and sponsors this trip could never be possible and I only hope that one day I'm able to give back to this growing program.

Blessed beyond belief,

Kayla

California Wine Tour: Day 3

Well friends, I definitely wrote way too early yesterday.  I wrote before dinner and did not have time to share about dinner that evening at Bernardus Lodge and the "treat" we received after dinner.  Right after I wrote the blog yesterday, I walked down to the wedding garden at the lodge where a reception was hosted and we were able to mingle with the general manager, Mike; grape grower, Matt; the wine master, Mark; and the executive chef, Chef Cal.  This reception consisted of walking through the beautiful vineyard that is planted in the entrance way to the lodge.  Adds a romantic touch, right?  Well the vineyard was beautiful and we listened and asked questions to Matt, the grape grower.  After that, we switched groups to walk through the garden were Marinus and Wicked (the two restaurants on the property) grow all of the ingredients they use while cooking every single meal.  During this time we talked with Chef Cal and wine master Mark about the farm to table method and the beautiful wine cellar they have below the property.  At dinner, I tried my first experience with Foie Gras.  If you do not know what that is, it's duck liver.  Everyone kept going on and on about how amazing this food was so I figured I must try it.  Well, I did the mistake and ate it by itself (Chef Leo would have killed me).  Chefs make dishes for everything to be eaten together but I grew up eating on sectioned plates that I wouldn't touch another food group until I was finished with the first one.  So, next time, I was ordered to put it on top of the beef like it was served.  During dinner, I had the honor of sitting next to celebrity Chef Cultino.  This man has done so many things throughout the years that I could only sit there and take in the wisdom he had to offer.  He has won so many awards, worked with chefs on TV shows, and has opened his own culinary school.  He began in the industry washing dishes.  AMAZING!  After dinner, we were whisked away by Lisa and brought to the spa where we indulged in chocolates, cake, cupcakes, and the biggest strawberries I had ever seen in my life!  In the spa, we were treated to coffee AND seven minute chair massages!! I have never had a massage before and after last night I think I'm going to find a way to spend $50-75 a month on a massage. I felt like a new person.  After all the sponsors and faculty left, we all sat by the fire and talked about how blessed we are to be out here at this point in our lifetime.  It's indescribable.

WOW! So that was just last night.  Today we were able to leave a little bit later but had to check out of the gorgeous Bernardus Lodge.  We drove an hour and a half to a vineyard that will never be open to the public: Pisoni Vineyard.  Unfortunately, this year, our group was unable to meet the famous Gary Pisoni who is the owner of Pisoni Vineyards.  The way business is done with him is by a hand shake and only if Gary likes you.  Luckily, we were blessed to spend the day with his son Mark (the grape grower of the family business) and his beautiful wife.  This morning was so relaxing! We enjoyed lunch in Gary's man cave (literally) of food that the Pisoni's hunt off of their land.  The meal was HUGE and it was only lunch time.  I did discover my new favorite wine and Brenden is going to kill me.  It's named Lucy and it is a Pisoni brand but it's a rosa wine that is so light on the palette.  It is extremely expensive but all Pisoni wines are. :)  After lunch, we were able to take the famous jeep ride with Mark through the vineyard and we got some amazing shots of the grapes and the scenery.  This place was a once in a lifetime opportunity!

Pisoni ended (unfortunately) and we rode on a bus from St. Lucia Highlands to Napa Valley, a three and a half hour drive!!  Our group definitely had a lot of fun on the bus but I was able to squeeze a quick nap in before we transferred to our new hotel River Terrace Inn.  This place reminds me a lot of the Hotel at Auburn University but in California they have wine in all the mini bars!  We were able to check in, put our luggage in the room, and run out the door to our next location: Far Niente.

Arriving at Far Niente, we were greeted with a glass of Chardonnay and Beth, the owner herself in a barn filled with old fashion cars.  Beth use to own this winery with her husband Gill until he passed away about seven years ago.  Her story is just amazing but the neat thing about their winery is the name.  When they discovered the old abandoned stone building Far Niente was carved in the front.  In Italy that translates to "doing nothing".  Well, as Beth told us, Gill emphasized that Far Niente was meant to be how they enjoy the wine not how they make it.  And man was their wine fabulous.  We enjoyed a four course meal in what use to be Beth and Gill's apartment in the top of this exquisite estate.  We enjoyed four wines tonight.  Far Niente specialize in the King and Queen of all wines: Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.  But for dessert, Far Niente has a winery within the winery called Dolce.  This is a dessert wine and is made to smell like a white wine but to taste like a jubilance of flavors.  Far Niente was so nice and let us enjoy 1999 Dolce.  One bottle alone sells for $200!  AH! I don't even want to know the retail value for this trip.

But the retail value will never compare to the amount of knowledge I am gaining from this experience.  I cannot express enough how blessed I am to be on this trip.  Not only on it but on it as a junior.  My outlook on experiences and life have completely changed because of this trip.  I have learned more about what I am interested in, what I want to do after graduation, and where I want to end up.  This opportunity could not be any better.

Soaking up the greatness,

Kayla

California Wine Tour: Day 2

I'm writing a little early today but this is the free time that I have and didn't want to miss any details.  This morning we enjoyed a wonderful breakfast at Marinus.  This restaurant is on location at Bernardus Lodge but is rated a top restaurant to go to in California.  (A guy we meet in Carmel said HE thinks it is better than The French Laundry, which is a really prestigious restaurant.)  After three cups of coffee, we listened to a lady by the name of Carol who is the destinations manager for CCM&E.  This traveling company has helped plan our whole trip.  Listening to Carol this morning solidified my desire to work with people and make their dreams come true.  She plans fabulous events and meetings for people all over the state of California and all over the U.S.  The events/meetings she plans are unlike any other because they are all specialized for each customer.  Carol cares about her customers and it shows.  She puts thought into details most people wouldn't think about.

After soaking up all the information I could about working with events, we hopped on the bus and headed to Sleepy Hollow where the Talbott Estates Winery is located.  This winery was so much fun to go to.  We listened to their winemaker, Dan talk so honestly about the winemaking process.  Simple put, he says, "It isn't winemaking.  The grapes know what to do.  They were designed to make wine.  There is no art in winemaking and I'm not a winemaker."  Talbott is a family owned winery and all of their wines are named after Mr. Talbott's kids (Kali Hart and Logan).  We were able to walk through their vineyard, talk and ask questions with Dan, and see the fermentation process.  The most interesting thing is how different everyone's wines are. Everyone has their own style of "winemaking" and Talbott is simply a wine that mimics exactly what they grow in their fields.

One thing I have learned today from numerous people (sponsors, sales director, random people in Tiffany's) is that you can have a plan of your life all you want but you can never plan everything.  Being passionate about something and taking steps to pursue that passion is the most important thing you can do for yourself.  As long as you are doing what you love and are talented in it you will be a happy and successful person.  What I'm taking away from today is following my heart and passion.  I have a lot of passions so following just one will be the most challenging part.

Tonight, we are dining at Bernardus Lodge in the wedding garden.  Bernardus is also a winery so we will be enjoying their fine wines along with a fabulous dinner prepared by Chef Cal.  If you have a passion for food and wine this is the place to live.  The food is spectacular and the wine matches every dish just perfectly.  My body is going into shock the amount of food I have consumed in the past day but I'm indulging in every thing that is put before me on this trip.  As Dan says, why enjoy an aged wine when you can enjoy what is here in the moment?

Living life to the fullest,

Kayla