Hello Everyone! Wow. It's been a while huh? I'm sitting down for the first time all summer to write a blog... since well.. Feb!!!!! Yikes. That's a hefty amount of updating so I'll keep it simple. Today wrapped up the final summer Family Fun Festival concert with Ralph's World!!! ((breather.) I can't believe we're already into the month of September. Where did the summer go? I'm exhausted. Between a full-time & a part-time job... my energy is diminishing. I've got to find a way to rejuvenate...seriously.

I'm just now getting started on my thesis.  Not exactly what I was anticipating but, I've had to wait on work in order to get the ball rolling. Meetings with the sponsor, timeline with the Executive Director...yadda yadda... you name it! Sheesh.

No worries. My goal is to be DONE by Dec/Early Jan... yes, it's doable!! I'm firm in my answer and most of you know I'm true to my word!. I'm just gonna have to get my act together and kick some major butt with the writing (ahemm..)

The weather is changing and fall is when I seem to miss home the most. Actually I just miss home. I'm in dire need of a break from the city and rest in my own bed.... I think it will be a while so I better suck it up and kick some major butt up here. ((sigh))  

Here's my latest blog. Feel free to comment. It's just how I've been feeling lately. I'll update soon.

I hope joy, love, and graceful conversations are never to far away. Miss you all!!!

RETREAT & REFLECT
Current mood: determined
Category: Life

Life can be so confusing. There are so many choices for us as we decide the values that will govern our lives … the roads we will take, the losses we accept, and the challenges we overcome. Lately I've been doing a lot of thinking and it seems that when I think I have it all together… I fall short. So many questions, so many thoughts left unspoken.

Life can be so confusing. I'm feeling stagnate in my direction even though I have so much going in my favor… a wonderful full-time job, a part-time job slinging coffee at Starbucks, and a masters degree that's nearing completion. All bias aside, I enjoy what I do and have good faith that my hard work and dedication will be worth every ounce of frustration, tear, and extra hour I put into it. On the latter, I also understand that I'm only young once and that I should take every new opportunity that's presented to me; this obviously has limitations but, you the reader (my friends, family, and acquaintances, etc.) recognize this just as well as I do.  

Life can be so confusing. I have a tendency to hold grudges even though it doesn't happen a lot. I've realized that the best gift I can give myself is to let go, hold my head high, and find a way to move on. I have lots of things I need to work out for myself for my own peace of mind and inner tranquility. I know better than anyone the subtleties of human nature and I know that I do not live in a fair world. Believe me, I've seen more than my share of injustice over the past two years of my life here in Chicago but I've been equally as blessed by examples of generosity. What a whirlwind of mixed emotions and challenges I've faced. I know I'm stronger for the risk…

Life can be so confusing.  Relationships – this is a bold statement in its own right. Friends are important to me. I've learned that faithfulness and consistency are two things of heightened importance, especially when it comes to relationships – friendship or otherwise. I may not have given a 100% to everyone but, I recognize my short comings and I am trying to make some changes.  People I thought would always be a part of my life have left me sorely disappointed and for this I'm sad. I know people change….its inevitable. On a positive note, I'm blessed with more "true" friendships than I ever imagined. (Thank you!)

"Love" has been misleading at times and I still find myself in search of something fulfilling... maybe when it finds me I'll be ready. There's no point is dwelling on the past and wishing for something different; we live and learn. Who knows what the future holds right?  Often we spend so much time looking at the closed door, that we miss the beauty of a new beginning.  

I truly believe that 'love comes to those who still hope even though they've been disappointed, to those who still believe even though they've been betrayed, to those for whom love still heals, even though they've been hurt before…'  I'm learning to be patient.

Life can be so confusing. I'm learning that as I become more clear about who I really am, I'm able to decide what's best for me the first time around. I have a constant desire for God to be the true guide in my life… I strive to know HIS will & direction more completely. My prayer is for strength and for a continued optimistic outlook in the future… where ever the road leads.

Hello all! Things are continuing to go well for the most part - Job(s) included. Everything is pretty much busy... go go go.. what's new eh?

Classes are going well but I know the next few weeks are going to be crazzzy!  All the major projects are due... yadda yadda. I'll pull through with flying colors and have a lil' fun in between! (I hope...lol.)

Today all the lights went up on Michigan Avenue and Macy's opened their grand Christmas window exhibits!! I must say it's quite a sight - quite beautiful. The city tree is up and the ice skating ring is open.... the holiday spirit is officially in full swing!! Unfortunately this also means people are a lil' more crazy than they were last month...haha. Regardless, the holidays make me happy!!!

I'm flying to Indy for thanksgiving to spend time with my sister Christy and Ashley. I'm so anxious to get away from the city for a few and have a little time to visit and just chill.. no schedule... just go with the flow. Doesn't sound like me huh?! haha.... yeah well.  And Lastly, I should say...

THE BEST FOR LAST:

 (I should have posted this a week or so ago... but my free time has been scarcely slim!!!)

Soooooo, I shall venture to say that I've had one of the best experiences in my lifetime.... maybe I should say it was a once in a lifetime experience!!

My boss (at the Chicago Theatre) gave me and several other employees $350 tickets to see Barbara Streisand in concert... for FREE! All the cool people went of course!! LOL! (Honestly, I think only a few of us were true fans but who cares... I had a blast!) This was my face as soon as she walked on stage:

----->   Speechless!!! I think I sang every song word for word and I know at one point she brought tears to my eyes. I swear I'm a 55 year old woman trapped inside a 25 year old body!!! hehe..

I know you're probably laughing at me for saying that but I don't care about that either! It was more about the experience. I'm a performer at heart; it was just refreshing and inspiring. I needed the boost...  It's kind of funny - I remember being a little girl standing in the middle of my momma's bed - singing her songs - even the old ballads.... little did I know then - how my path would change and bring me where I am today. I have the heart and desire to be somewhere on stage.. to sing 'til I'm so tired that I have to push myself through the next performance.. This is truly where I do some of my best work. I enjoy the challenge... 

Anyway... the concert was absolutely AMAZING and it was truly inspiring. I just wanted to share...

NOW - if I could only see... Bette Midler, Liza Minelli, Patti LuPone, Celine Dion, Madonna, and Cher.... HA. What a mix of characters that would be!   

Anyhoo... I guess that's the very brief update. I hope everyone is doing well..

Honestly, I keep looking at my suitecases... I think they're ready to be filled with all of my treasures and headed for TN... if only for a few. Hence, I'll be home in a month. I hope we can hang...

Later Folks...

Verse for today:

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.
    --Psalm 119

 Hello Everyone!!! I am long over due - I'm writing this as I enjoy my first cup of coffee... yum!! My favorite part of the morning  

Things have been kind of crazy since my return to Chicago. As most of you know- my wallet was lifted from my bag the first wk I was back....  <--- This is my angry face! CRAZZZZY.

Most everything has been replaced- the important stuff that is... I did however lose some sentimental items- I'm sad about that but I suppose it just gives basis to start new memories...

Overall, things have been going fairly well. I've had tons of internship and jobs interviews within the last week, etc. Honestly I'm exhausted but I feel pretty good about everything and I'm trying to pace myself. I figure if I put myself out there - God will open the door and everything will fall into place with HIS timing.

My stress level has been somewhat minimal. I am trying to stay positive and see the bright side of every situation- good and bad. I'm making sure to get good rest and breakfast in the morning- this has made such a difference! Surprise!!!! Hahah.

I'm beginning to adjust to the new location. Our apt is in a nice quaint little neighborhood called "Logan Square" - its mainly a Hispanic community with some rough edges- to be expected anywhere. Tons of fab Mexican restaurants/grocery/ and liquor stores- that's about it right now...lol!! 

The area is developing and more and more students are moving into the location. There are mainly families in my neighborhood- lots of little kids - they always make me smile. Gabriel (the little boy below us) has been wearing his "ZORO" costume for the past two weeks...lol! He also has a "magic cape" which helps him jump from the second level apt. (He hasn't ever actually jumped from the 2nd level - somehow his mother manages to grab hold of him before he succeeds!) His ambition/ determination inspires me...he's a feisty little thing!

The ice cream truck comes through 2wice a day- It's now a mission of mine to identify all of the songs... I've figured out 2 so far- "When the Saints Go Marching In" and the theme song from "Lamb Chop" lol...  For some reason I always think of Amanda Lamb. haha. It's probably because she used to encourage me to grab ice cream with her instead of practicing voice.....no worries Laura! I chose practicing instead... AH...those were the good 'ol days.

Classes are going well. I currently have class Tue.- Thurs. and I start 2 more classes in another week so I'll have class Mon.- Sat! YAY! - ok I'm being sarcastic... anyhoo, hopefully I'll learn a thing or two..lol! I'm currently taking Financial Management, Presenting Live Performances, & International Arts Management- the other two additional classes will be Labor Relations and Human Resources.

I actually have an international mentor. His name is Lamine Fall and he is the prominent Founder/Production Manager of Gadiaga Productions in Dakar Senegal, Africa. Together we will be developing and implementing a project which incorporates his specific culture and/or art. I'm thinking that we'll prob. assemble an international exhibit of his music to be show cased at the Hokin Gallery of Columbia College Chicago. All of that is still up in the air considering that the logistics need to be mapped out- legal arrangements, budgets, etc. I'll keep ya posted on that one....

I recently attended a VIP Party a few weeks ago. It was basically a showcase of young Chicago Performers... I met some really neat people- two specifically from TN!!! One graduated from Belmont and the other is from the Nashville area. They are both extremely nice- both Christians. Cyndy invited me to visit her church, etc. So I'm excited about the visit and the opportunity to get to know them both better.

All in all, I guess that's about it... I must start to be somewhat productive today .... lol. I'll try to take some pictures of the apt and send them out... feel free to email me!!!

I hope this finds everyone well...Arrivederci!

Well today is Saturday, May 6th...it's 10am here which means it's 11am at home and mom is just about to walk across the stage for her Masters Degree!!!!! I'm so excited- she's worked hard. However, I am a little sad that I can't share this moment with her and the family. Instead a white rose is sitting in my place... I just wish I could share my joy with everyone. Today is another stepping stone; one of many things my mother has accomplished! She continues to inspire me; she is one of the strongest and most loving individuals in my life. Congrats Mom!!!! (Muwahh)

So I finished up my last week of classes, let's not discuss the enormous list of work and projects that must be completed in ONE SINGLE WEEK!!!! Ah...the joys of finals

The weeks have been extremely busy. I have been filling hours with two additional internships on top of the work load!! I'm trying not to complain - they have both afforded me wonderful opportunities. I have been meeting some fabulous people!!!! (some have asked for me to send my resume  I'll say "YESSSSSSSSS!" to that! LOL! Most of my efforts have been spent with the Sondheim Festival!

I've actually been able to use some of my musical knowledge - picking choir music for the Chicago Children's Choir (I'm slowly working my way in!!!) and the Chicago Gay Men's Chorus. We're working with over 50 professional Chicago performers. They will each have 10-20 minutes worth of Sondheim material to perform over a three day celebration honoring Stephen Sondheim himself. He's actually going to be present for some of the events. The only thing is - I'm not anticipating that I'll be able to see this project through! Performances are in July so I'm trying to see what I can work out ((crosses fingers)).

The weeks (and streets) have been filled with immigrant protests, etc. This experience has certainly been an eye opener; most often it has led me to much contemplation about the sovereignty of our nation, the uneasiness that is created by terrorism, the immigration policy, the continous cut of funding at many levels; how can we say that "no child is left behind" when our school systems are continuously filled with low expectations, illiteracy, and self- doubt. This is (even more so) an "in your face" issue considering that I see people on the streets living in card board boxes; the fact that I live across the street from a prison thats filled with those who have "fallen between the cracks"....the list could go on. The reality- it is a never ending battle....I am certainly not one to push political views/issues. No matter where you are politically- these issues serve a position of utmost importance. It's just easy (as an everyday American) to be blinded by the reality that surrounds us.

Anyhoo, enough about that.(my apologies).. one week to go and I'll be home for a few!! I can't wait to see everyone...I'm actually looking forward to doing yard work!! (Mom will be encouraged by this...lol.)

Ok, I'll try to write more later...I gotta get busy!! Hope everyone is well! HUGS!

Hello all! I figure it's time to give a little update on things...

I've been on Spring Break all week which has been great-I just wish it felt like Spring!

Anyway, Eric was able to visit this week and we did something new pretty much everyday. Some of the girls came up on Friday for St. Patty's and spent the weekend!  (Girls: Katy Monroe - Sports Journalism Grad student at American Univ. in Washington, Peep (nickname), and Courtney)

Talk about craziness- Chicago has one of the largest celebrations for St. Patrick's Day! There were so many people celebrating that you could barely get in and out of places...It was a fun experience though! I made sure to wear my green!!  

 Eric's good friend Mike and his girlfriend Morgan came up for the weekend as well. I was able to use a contact to get 8 free $50 tickets to see URINETOWN at the Mercury Theater! The show was great and we all had a blast! Monday, Eric and I went shopping and site seeing, Tuesday, we went to the Art Institute of Chicago, Wed. I worked a concert with IMF and then Eric and I won $25 lottery tickets to see WICKED!!! OMG! The show was absolutely amazing!!! I am so going again! I kept putting it off b/c of all the publicity and people but, after working with the company I had to go! Later that night we went to Second City (I won tickets last semester) so, we had a fun filled week and now I'm exhausted! LOL! I've tried to stay as far away from my computer as much as possible-I know when classes start back I'll do nothing but stare at a 10 inch screen....((harrumph.)) Only eight more weeks or so...

I've finally talked to Daniel.(Lunsford) I was sad to hear that he's already moved to Memphis. He and Nikki have set a wedding date for October 7th (next fall), Stephen Young is getting married in July, Michael Bowman is engaged now and planning to be married in 2007, friends Corey and Erin just found out that they're expecting...my friend Lore is getting married in less that 30 days....wow its been a whirlwind...

We are all growing up...its sad and exciting all at the same time. I guess as long as we all stay in touch and always feel young at heart, I don't see getting older ever being a problem. It's just scary to think about sometimes but, I know it's inevitable. As Kathy C., has told me many times before, "Life is change...you can resist it or embrace it." It's so true. Life is what we make of it. In my opinion life isn't really about 'finding' yourself, it's more about creating yourself and learning from experiences....

I know it's easier said than done. I constantly juggle three questions: Where am I? Where am I going? and How will I get there? They turn up in my daily walk and in prayer. Life seems so hectic and busy, often confusing.....I get so wrapped up in my "save the world" mentality that I neglect my life and my relationship with God. It's kind of coincidental how Rev. Ellen Fisher mentioned this in a News Letter not too long ago. It certainly hit home- I mean this is something that I constantly deal with. I guess we all do huh? I know God is using me- I may not always have the answers; I may never have the answers... I just pray that I focus less on details and more on loving and sharing God's love with others.

I guess thats all for now...I'll write more later. Hope everyone is well.