Happy Father's Day, Dad!!

This guy is by far my best friend. From teaching me the importance of good vodka, how to play blackjack, being the best spiritual leader (or leader in general) for our family, always always providing for us in every way, never giving up on me, teaching me to take responsibility, pushing me to always be better, helping me get back up every time I fall, and always carrying my many shopping bags (haaa)- you're the best!!!!

So, we're in West Virginia. It's just Dad and I- so I, being the golden daughter that I am, told him we could do whatever he wanted today. So, what did we end up doing?? Oh you know, started the morning off with fly fishing, came back for breakfast, church then a grilling demonstration/lunch. Although slightly manly (to say the least), it has been SO much fun! I now know how to fly fish (sort of) and how to smoke a beef tenderloin! Just call me Dad's favorite son :)


Happy Father's Day to all... and especially to mine- God blessed me with one of the best :)

WEDDING WEEKEND!!

I have a new sister in law! This past weekend, Rob and Katherine got married in Clarksdale. One of my favorite weekends all around!

Thursday, Rob and I drove up to Clarksdale. Our immediate family stayed at a great bed and breakfast, which was conveniently in the middle of town and three doors down from the Ross's. Thursday night I got to have dinner with my friend, Strohm, before she left for NYC. It was so good to see her! Friday was the bridesmaids luncheon, rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. Almost ALL of our entire family made it for the wedding festivities, so it was a blast getting to see everyone :)

Another bonus, my friend Amanda was in town for the wedding and staying with Strohm. Amanda and Strohm were so awesome and came over to do my hair and makeup for the rehearsal dinner and wedding. It was so nice to have good friends with me! I sure do miss those two :)

Saturday, we went to the out of town luncheon- which, again, was conveniently right down the street. Then it was show time. We all began to get ready for Rob and Kat's big day! The wedding was absolutely perfect and VERY Katherine and Rob.

I couldn't be any more excited to have another sister in law. Rob found a good one, which, obviously isn't surprising to me :) I feel so blessed to not only have three amazing older siblings to look up to, but also three in laws as well.


On to other news, Monday Mama and I moved a bunch of stuff around in my apartment in Starkville. It's really starting to come together. Perfect timing, considering I start school on July 2nd! Tomorrow, Daddy and I head to West Virginia, where I'll be until it's time to start at the W. I will be taking a side trip to NYC to visit Strohm!! Exciting next few weeks ahead :)

Clarksdale bound :)

And now, ALL ready for nursing school.... I hope!

Eye of the Storm

I went on a walk with Dad the other night after dinner. While we were walking and talking, I told him I felt like I was in the eye of a hurricane. I had just gone through finals, a big move, and finishing up work. Now I have NOTHING going on and nothing to do. BUUUTT come June, my online class starts, wedding festivities really get going :):) and I leave for West Virginia for a couple of weeks then return just in time to start nursing school in July.

Everything has been so exciting and fun for me lately, and it's about to get exciting and fun again. But, for now, ya girl here is pretttyyyy bored. I'm trying to enjoy and relax (which I totally am!) but I've began to get creative when it comes to entertainment.

I have spent a lot of time with my sweet parents, tagged along with Daddy to some work things (again, I just smile and nod because I usually have noooo idea what they're talking about), and the best- spent time with my sweet friends from high school. There is something SO refreshing about being able to pick right back up where we left off.

But, one of my favorite things I've been doing during my "down time" is COOKING. Don't get too excited, I can't cook anything special... but I sure have made progress! So far, I've made lots of veggies, a pork tenderloin, and my latest- salmon!!! Next goal?... GRILLING. Yep, I'm making Dad teach me to grill this week. Stop right now, and say a quick prayer that our house is still standing after this lesson!

Just wanted to update while I'm enjoying time at home with no schedule and no schoolwork and no responsibility... it sure has been fun! Now bring on some more chaos, I 'm well rested!

I really moved out... I might still be in denial?

Doing lots of back yard lounging... I don't mind it one bit!

MY PORK TENDERLOIN!!

Salmon, mushrooms and broccolini. Typical, I couldn't wait and took a huge bite out of salmon before taking a picture :/ I was hungry...oops.







I'm off to do something really productive... like watch a movie or something. Until next time y'all.... :)

Flashback Friday (Saturday Edition)

MY COMPUTER IS FIXED! There is a miracle worker in the I.T. department at Puckett Machinery, I swear. I was so excited when he said he had fixed it. SOOO excited that I began rummaging through all of my folders of pictures, just glad that they hadn't been erased!

While looking at pictures, I got the bright idea to do a "Flashback Friday" and show a couple of my old favorites :)  ....... then I realized it was Saturday. Sooo... just pretemd it's not!

Hands down the best freshman roommate :)

This picture makes me laugh SO hard. Like it NEVER. GETS. OLD.

Just the BEST big sis I could ask for!! :)

Tacky Tourist Swap... and we NAILED the tacky look.

Last but not least, I just moved out of my house with these three girls, and man, do I miss them already!!

I hope y'all enjoyed my little blast from the past, I really enjoyed looking back at pictures from the past few years. I am so blessed to have the friends that I've made... and the PLENTY of fun times :) 

Andddd... My Computer Crashed

Yep, that's right. The night before my last final, my computer crashed. It was the end of finals week and I was TIRED. So, being the rational, non-dramatic person that I am (HAA) I burst into tears. Needless to say, that didn't bring my computer back to life. Anyways, I'm still computerless- hence my lack of posts lately!

I have finished at State! I have moved out of my Starkville house and its officially summer! What a weird feeling... a very nice one though :) I was so sad to leave my house in Starkville though. Maybe when I (hopefully) get my computer back, I'll post my favorite memories and pictures from there. I lived there my sophomore and junior year, and goodness I think we had some pretty fun times there!

Last Wednesday, Buck and his sons came to Starkville to help me move out. We were rolling and finished in no time! They were so sweet and moved everything heavy for me. I moved all of my stuff into my parents condo in Starkville (where I will live). Nothing is set up yet, but I suppose that's a minor detail. I had orientation for MUW nursing school on Thursday. It was so strange seeing my new classmates and school. I think my class is 65 of us so hopefully I'll make some friends that don't think I'm a total dork. I feel very informed and will be prepared as much as I can for July 2nd, when I actually start there.

Friday morning, I flew up to West Virginia to meet my family. A Caterpillar convention was in progress. I got to attend a few events and considering the fact that I'm SUCH a business whiz (again, HAAAAA) I kept my mouth shut, or tried :), and just smiled. I loved getting to see Dad, Hastings and Rob so in their element. I just dropped everyone off at the airport a little while ago. Mama and I catch another flight tomorrow afternoon. We're looking forward to some Mother's Day bonding time :)

Speaking of Mother's Day, shout out to the world's best, Mother Mary. This woman has seen me at my absolute worst (usually taking the brunt of it all) and somehow still loves me and takes care of me. Mama, I don't know what I would do without you!! Oh, and have I mentioned she's the BEST shopping partner (Sorry Daddy!) HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY MAMA :)

I'm Still Here!

Hello, strangers. It's been a hot minute (or one week) since I've updated. I feel like I've been all over the place lately. And as strange as it sounds, I'm loving every second of it! My little brain is going 90 to nothing with lots going on but man it's lots of excitement :)

Since I last updated: I have had my final days of class, I went to Jackson, Birmingham AND Oxford. I returned back to Starkville this afternoon exhausted and broke... but sure did have a blast seeing sweet friends at Double Decker this weeekend!

On the agenda this week is two finals, packing, then back to Jackson this weekend for my future sister in law's bridal shower. I can't wait!

On the subject of packing, anyone want to pack up my house and move for me? PLEASE?? I bought boxes today and haven't even gotten them out of my car. I feel like I've been planning and planning and planning and now it's here. It doesn't even seem real. In  a week and a half I'll be finished at State and moved out of my house. I am so excited about everything in the future, but it sure is bittersweet. The past three years here have been the best. I've made the best of friends, and had PLENTY of fun..... and that's an understatement.

I should probably go be productive and pack a box or two.... or do something wild like study for my finals. Whatever. Cheers to some big changes! Preparations and plans for everything have been made and it's time to take the step. I'm weirded out but excited. Happy week to all, and anyone in the Starkville area is more than welcome to come pack my stuff for me :))

Sunday Cooking Expeditions

Happy Sunday, everyone! Hope your weekend was a good one! Mine sure was.

Anyways, I went through a phase where I LOVED baking. I still love it, but due to a little unwanted weight gain, I haven't been in the kitchen much. Well, today I was on pinterest (of course) pinning up a storm- food for the most part. I then realized that I really miss my attempts to cook. So, I decided that just because I now watch what I eat, it doesn't mean that I can't find SOMETHING to make. I began searching for healthier options. I was in the mood for chicken and found the easiest, most delicious chicken breast!

Since I cook just for me (I don't trust myself enough to serve food to anyone else... any of my close friends remember the baked chicken incident of last summer?? yeaaahhh...) I only cooked one chicken breast, and am using the rest of it for the crockpot tomorrow. Just call me Martha Stewart (minus the jail stint....hopefully :)) I threw in some broccoli and red bell peppers and called it a meal!

The chicken recipe (found at http://www.food.com/recipe/easy-garlic-chicken-5478 ) is SO EASY and I didn't use as much brown sugar as it called for (and I used Splenda brown sugar blend). I didn't feel like I missed out by not using as much.

Anyone else have any good (EASY... baby steps here) recipes I could try?? I'm on a roll over here! Maybe I should skip out on nursing school and move on over to culinary school (Mama and Daddy, if you read this, I'm totes kidding).

Tuesday Inspirations

Taking a break from my big philosophy project (Don't eveeennnnn ask... or get me started on how useful I think this project is!) and doing a little bit of daydreaming and pinterest browsing. I came across these few quotes. If you ask me, it's just the extra little boost needed to power through the week :)

"Eat Well Travel Often" Hmm... sounds like a plan to me :)

Here's to finishing the semester ASAP so that the traveling and dining (.....and drinking?) can begin!! :) Goodnight, y'all!

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes

I woke up this morning with the realization that this is my last full week of classes at Mississippi State. Woah baby. Not going to lie, it's a weird feeling. But, I'm so thankful to know that I have a plan, a new place to live, and an acceptance letter from a nursing school. I'll take it :)

This semester has FLOWN by. My next four weekends are booked... with tons of fun plans including Super Bulldog, maybe a trip to Oxford (I'm really missing my high school friends there), a little Jazz Fest in the Big Easy, and last but not least- the Greenbrier. I'm working on soaking it all in, having as much fun as possible. For some reason though, these things called school and work keep getting in my way! How annoying.

On the subject of my last few weeks before moving and a family wedding and starting nursing school, my devotion this morning hit the spot. Perfectly. These two verses really stuck out at me, and was a great reminder of how I should approach each day. Things are certainly hectic right now, but in the BEST way possible. I am beyond thankful for not only all of the amazing opportunities and things I've been given, but also to have the promise from the Creator himself, to take care of me. Always. So here's to walking by faith, not by sight. :) Happy Monday to all!

"Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you" 1Thessalonians 5:18

"For we walk by faith, not by sight." 2Corinthians 5:7

Cheers, Y'all.

I mean, SERIOUSLY. My week of tons of school work has come to a close. I started the week off with a paper due Monday (after Easter... WHO does that?!) then a HUGE physiology test on Tuesday. I never went to sleep on Monday night. Everyone that knows me well, knows that I absolutely nerd out in that class. After that 3:30 date with hell on Tuesday, I had another test Wednesday afternoon. But it's totally okay for these reasons:

1. It's finally the weekend for this girl- and it's chalking up to be quite a fun one :)

2. I made an A on that physiology test... I was beyond excited!

3. A dress that I bought at the Greenbrier was delivered to my doorstep this afternoon (it had to get hemmed first... of course). It's Caterpillar yellow so even Daddy thought it was a great purchase!

4. On the Caterpillar yellow topic, it has so worked in my favor that yellow is in right now. "But Daddy, it's Cat yellow... the prettiest color in the world" works like a charm. Every.Time.

5. I have finally decided what to purchase with my casino winnings. I decided that it's so rare for me to win big, that I MUST buy something that A) I would normally not spend the money on and B) will always remind me of the night the Puckett's dominated the blackjack table (that might be a taaadd exaggeration... whatever) SO, I opted for a sequin little skirt. I'm so excited!! 



On the weekend agenda: All Sig Day tomorrow.... MAN I love this day. and Saturday, a sweet friend's 21st birthday. Maybe I'll post some unfortunate pictures on here on Sunday... if you're lucky.

Until then, happy weekend to all.. SO glad it's here :))

Easter Update

Happy Monday!!!.... is there such a thing? That's debatable.

I had the most amazing weekend in West Virginia. We arrived Thursday night and went straight to dinner at the Lodge. Apparently, this girl was hungry because I ate my entire NY Strip. Oh, okay. Friday, Mama and I went to the spa :) and to swim a few laps at the pool. If we're being honest, I swam a whopping six laps before feeling like I was going to drown. I sense a new goal for me on the horizon........

Friday night after dinner at The Summit, Dad, Rob and I hit the casino. What a clutch decision that was! We ALL left there with big winnings from the blackjack table. I've had my eye on a skirt since the NYC trip, so I won enough money to purchase the skirt and promptly cashed out! No gambling problem for me... shopping problem- on the other hand........

Saturday, after Mom and I had another spa trip (we couldn't decide on just one service. oops?) I went to the golf course with the boys. I loved watching them and occasionally pretending to be a caddy. Honestly, who needs the Masters when you've got Rob, Richard and the Greenbrier. Pros. Right there. Just kidding, but we had a great time, and it was a beautiful day outside.

We cooked out at the house Saturday night and sat around the fire pit. It was the perfect night for it and while Dad isn't being a pro golfer or a tractor man, he could be a chef. Dinner was the bomb.com.

Sunday morning we went to the Episcopal church in town. The church is so cute. So cute that I planned my entire Greenbrier destination wedding. Seriously, everything but a minor detail.... the groom.
After church, the Lodge had a buffet. Oh. My. Gosh. All I have to say is YUM... and I now weigh 58603 pounds but it was worth every bit!

 back porch :)

All in all, it was wonderful to relax and spend time with some of the family. I hope everyone else had a relaxing weekend as well. I have a test tomorrow but I'll check back soon with stuff that I promise to be more interesting than my personal life :) Here's to a speedy week for all!

If I can just make it to tomorrow I'll be.....

If I can just make it to tomorrow night (not really 'if', because I totally will!).... THIS WILL BE MY VIEW!!!!!!

Not the greatest quality, but it's the only picture I could find! And, yep- West Virginia bound tomorrow afternoon with Mama, Daddy and RP. I can't wait to get up there for the Easter weekend!

When my class gets out tomorrow morning at 10:45, I'm heading straight to Jackson for a quick (hopefully) doctor's appointment. Yuck. But it's totally okay because when that's over with I'll be heading to the mountains.

On the agenda? Oh just some lounging, a spa trip with the mama, hopefully a hike or two, and the casino. I'm a champ at black jack.... NOT!!

In the spirit of my little Lent challenge coming to a close (I'm really going to miss having a reading schedule and the Bishop's notes), I'll share a passage from the other day's readings.

It is VERY self-explanatory, and it's a subject that, shamefully, I struggle with, so I won't comment on it. Without any more rambling.... Here's a story I need to be reminded of:

"they said to Him, 'Teacher, this woman was caught in the very act of committng adultery. Now in the law of Moses commanded us to stone such a woman. Now what do you say?' They said this to test him, so that they might have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger on the ground. When they kept on questioning him, he straightened and said to them, 'Let anyone among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.'"

Woah Nelly. That's some major food for thought for this girl.

Happy Easter weekend to all :) Check back soon!

Relaxed Day :)

Well hey everyone... I have had the BEST day today!! Lately, my Sundays have been filled with traveling back from wherever I spent the weekend (not that I mind that :))) but I stayed in Starkville ALL weekend... and man, was it fun! Toooo much fun.

Today, I went to the Palm Sunday service at the Episcopal church here in Starkville. Dan Mullen and his family was there... if our church isn't true maroon, then I don't know what is!
I then went to lunch and got to catch up with my boy bestie, Parker. I spent the afternoon working on some homework at my favorite coffee spot then a jog outside. Gosh, it was such a pretty day... it made me actually WANT to go running. Woah.

I came back from my run, showered and cooked dinner. Hands down, I must be the most abnormal 21 year old in the world. For dinner, I made roasted brussel sprouts and zucchini, and grilled halibut. Oh, and I started with arugula and spinach tossed in oil and vinegar. While the rest of the college population eats like, Ramen, that's what I whip up. Suuuucks for me... don't judge.

My plan for this week includes cardio at least 5 days this week... that's huge for this out of shape girl! Feel free to check back next Sunday to see if I'm still alive?

Hope everyone had a relaxing Sunday and is ready for the week! I'll report back soon with some Easter fun and MAYBE a mortifying/funny (now that time has passed) story from the weekend...I can't wait :) Good night!

Short and Sweet

Well... as usual, I had quite a weekend! My brother Rob and his fiance Katherine (hurry up and get married so I can just say my sister in law!) had their engagement parties this weekend. Yes, parties... as in plural. Friday night was in Jackson and Saturday night was in Clarksdale. They were so much fun AND to make the weekend even better, my sister and her husband flew in for the events. I sure do miss you Suz, no one else gets my humor quite like you :)
I returned to Starkville Sunday, in time to go to work... greeatttt way to end the weekend! Just kidding, it was a very smooth afternoon/evening in the ER.

I got off work last night at 11, just in time to start studying for my history test that was today. I HATE HISTORY. Anyway, had that test today then went back to work and just got off. Very productive few days, if I do say so myself!

I just gave y'all a recap on my happenings (and I'm sure you could care less about them... which I so don't blame you for!) for this reason: I caught myself multiple times today getting tired, overwhelmed, and wanting to jump off a bridge... if we're being honest here :) But, it was a beautiful day, I have amazing friends and family, a roof over my head, I just had an awesome weekend, and everything I could ever even think of wanting. So, I decided maybe I should just quit whining and get over myself :) because obviously, things could be waaayyy worse.

So, here goes my new challenge... and for all of you that know me oh so well, its a big one: QUIT COMPLAINING SO MUCH. Wish me luck... I can be awfully whiney at times... sorry bout it.

 I wouldn't mind if I were there....

 Ooorrrr... here

Happy Monday... Here's to a wonderful (and hopefully fast) week! 

BEST EVER

As many of you know, I am reading the four gospels for Lent. I read Luke chapters 11 and 12 a few days ago. I came across such an amazing passage. I've heard it in bits and pieces, but for some reason it really hit me in a wonderful way the other morning, so I thought I'd share :)

Luke 11:9-13:

"So I say to you, Ask, and it will be given to you; search, and you will find;

knock, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and everyone

who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.

Is there anyone among you who, if your child asks for a fish, will give

a snake instead of a fish? Or if the child asks for an egg, will give a scorpion?

If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children,

how much more will the Heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!"

Well... if I'm being honest, some things in my life have certainly not turned out how I wanted or thought it would. But looking back, it has all worked out perfectly. I couldn't ask for anything more, or better, and have been given the best situations and opportunities ever. As I start to think about the future, and begin to make big steps towards that future, it is so comforting to know that, maybe the Lord won't give me exactly what I pray for, but He'll provide me with SO much more.

So, here's to moving forward to whatever you may be going towards and knowing/trusting His plan. It is perfect... and I, personally, cannot WAIT to see what unfolds!

Sorry for the cheesy/preachy post. Tomorrow I'm off to a Jackson engagement party then a Clarksdale engagement party Saturday for my sweet brother and his even sweeter fiance. So excited for all of their wedding festivities and even more excited to have Kat as an official part of our family!! :) Happy weekend!

I am, in fact, still alive!

Whew... crazy week(s)! But absolutely no complaints from this girl! Last week was spring break... and I was lucky enough to go to New York City!!!

Last Saturday night (as in two Saturday's ago) we arrived in the Big Apple. My crew: my best friend from high school, my mama, her best friend Kerry, and Kerry's future daughter-in-law, Maggie! It was SO good to have a few days with my best friend that I feel like I never see... it was so refreshing! I won't bore everyone with the details of our trip but I can sum it up REAL QUICK with this: I came home 1. broke (did I mention that Richard Puckett should become a saint... love you dad :)) 2. heavier. But let me tell you, I am happier than ever :) Mom, Kerry and I even extended our trip an extra two days... again, THANKS DADDY!!!

We got home on Friday and Mom, Dad and I went to dinner. It was so good to spend time with them. I've noticed as I've gotten a little bit older, that I really, really enjoy spending time with my parents. I have the world's best y'all.

Speaking of how amazing my mama and daddy are, Friday they gave me a gift- one that is probably my favorite thing they've ever given me (as if I didn't get spoiled enough in NYC). They gave me the Book of Common Prayer used by the Episcopal Church and in the book is also the Bible. I know that seems odd but I have so enjoyed reading my Lent readings in it and browsing the Book of Common Prayer. This morning I spent a solid hour exploring its contents. I'm weird I know, but it is seriously one of the most special gifts I've been given :)


All in all, I couldn't be any happier! Tomorrow, I'll share with y'all a little something I learned from my Lent readings. I'm reading the four gospels for Lent and the episcopal bishop sends out his notes from the day's reading via email. Stay tuned :) Here's some NYC pics:

 KP and I just browsing some shoes :)

 Anne McCaslin and I after Phantom of the Opera!!

Sure do love you, mama!!

A Few of my Favorite Things

Yes, it's midnight on a Friday night and I'm in my bed reading blogs, browsing at some of my favorite online shops (JUST looking, I swear Daddy!) and catching up on some reading. Seriously, I couldn't be any more content :)

Y'all, in my mind, spring has SPRUNG. March 1st hit and I can't stand it any longer- I'm slowly pulling out my spring wardrobe and whipping out color. Now, I realize that, by no means, am I a fashionista and I know I'm not trendy, but I sure have enjoyed looking/researching fashion lately. This spring I am LOVING all of the color. I know I know, spring=color (duh) but this year's is brighter than ever and I LOVE IT. I am loving the color blocking and the fact that my mama got me a hot pink Kate Spade purse that I can shamelessly wear with pretty much any color (Mom, you're the bomb.com). Who knew hot pink could be universal? Well, I don't really know if it is, but in my book... YES. Here are a few of my favorite things... I'm really feeling color right now and I even purchased lavender jeans (if you know me at all, this is huge y'all. Like... wild).

I love red and pink together

 I might've just ordered some red scalloped shorts... LOVE.

Now, if only my legs/backside looked like this. But, you have to have at least some appreciaion for the infamous "Puckett Bubble Butt" :)

One final note: Most everyone knows my absolute LOVE for Sex and the City (I may or may not be watching it right now as a matter of fact!) Although I don't exactly think Sarah Jessica Parker is attractive,  there's something about her... I just love. She does feminine so well. I love her messy, maybe even frizzy, curls she rocks in the early seasons. I found this on pinterest and DIED... is that hair not perfection? It looks super easy to create and looks like perfect summer hair for ya girl here. Just thought I'd share :)

Good night to everyone... if you happen to spot a big blob of hot pink or any bright color, fear not, it's just me loving that spring time is FINALLY here!



I think God is an Eavesdropper!

So, I woke up early this morning, or early for me. I had a HUGE urge to skip my 9:30 and go on a jog instead- I thought 6:45 was just too early to run outside… alone. Buuut, being the studious star student that I am (HAAAA), I decided I should go to class. So, I walked all the way to my class to find that teacher had canceled it! I mean, as much as I appreciate NOT having to sit through that class, say it with me ma’am… ‘EMAIL’. Nonetheless, I am enjoying coffee and blogs instead of philosophy.

On to the explanation of my weird title…. Yesterday, while riding around looking at houses, one of my sweet roommates, Mary-Susan, and I were having a mild freak out about growing up. She graduates in December, and well, I just feel weird leaving State and beginning a new school and still have no idea where that will be. (I’m a planner, so this is a tad bit difficult for me). Both very exciting, but sort of scary to talk about moving out of our parent’s house (like that will ever REALLY happen… sorry mom and dad J) and things of that sort.

This morning, while reading my devotion Jesus Calling, one of the passages I read was Philippians 4:6-7. Side note: if you’re looking for a short but wonderful daily devotion, I highly recommend that book! Back on subject, the passage reads:

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

BAM… You showed me, God. I think He was listening to me and Sue whine and worry. If that doesn’t give you some comfort, I sure don’t know what will! Happy Thursday!!

I'm BAAAAAACK!

I’ve been all over the place lately… literally!

This weekend, I went to Aspen to visit my aunt Helen and her boyfriend. WHAT a blast we had! (and that’s putting it mildly!)

My weekend began Thursday afternoon. After my developmental psychology test, I hopped on a plane with Mom, Dad, my aunt Mary Lee and my uncle Ben. In Aspen, we met up with Mary Lee’s sister, Keith (my roomie for the weekend!) and her daughter Maddin that lives up the street from Aunt Helen and my “honorary uncle” Jim. I’m sure Jim is just thrrillleeeeddd to be considered an honorary uncle :)

The weekend consisted of skiing (maybe more falling than skiing), the most amazing meals- including my aunt’s unbelievable cooking, lunch at the private club on Aspen Mountain, the restaurant at the Little Nell and a gorgeous sleigh ride to dinner where an elk loin and hot cider/rum awaited us. There was also plenty of vodka (oops) and OH MY GOSH probably one of the most fun live music shows I’ve ever been to. It was a three person jazz band from New Orleans, and although I didn’t think I was very jazzy, I had SO much fun! I might’ve gotten low… in front of my parents. It’s totally fine. 

Besides a little incident with the icy driveway- which ended with me literally bear crawling up the hill in the wee hours of the morning- this Mississippi girl fared well in the cold. I had so much fun skiing with my personal ski instructor (AKA Helen’s boyfriend Jim) who was beyond patient as he painfully watched me ski over my poles, run into the side of the mountain, and many more uncoordinated tumbles.

I also loved getting to see my “cousin” (not really but sort of) Maddin… she’s always so much fun and I loved getting to catch up!

A huge thanks to our sweet host and hostess, Aunt Helen and Jim. I loved getting to be a part of such a fun weekend! Helen does the “mountain woman” look in a very chic fashion, y’all.

Here’s a few pictures (clearly I only had my camera one night) :

"cousin" Maddin

 Sweet Sweet parents :)

 Jim and Maddin and I... Thanks so much for everything Jim!!

Daddy, Maddin, Uncle Ben and I

Well, I'm off to the gym to try and work off everything I ate and drank over the weekend... totally worth it though! Happy Monday to all! :)

LENT!!!

Good evening to all! I have a test tomorrow, so naturally what am I doing?... Everything BUT studying. I'll get to it, I promise!

Well, as I'm sure everyone knows, today is Ash Wednesday... the first day of Lent. Considering that I set lofty new year's resolutions which include:
no diet coke (or any soft drink)
no beer
no wine
no carbs/sugar

.....I decided I am NOT giving anything else up. I just don't think I could! So, I have signed up (through the Episcopal Diocese) to read all four Gospels in the 40 days of Lent. Dad introduced me to this deal, and it sounds pretty cool. I have a schedule of what to read each day, and each day the Bishop sends his notes on that day's readings. I am so excited to get started!

Tonight, I read Mark chapter 1. Sometimes, there's nothing like just reading God's Word. Devotion books are great, but it alllll stems from the Bible. So, I'm sure I'll have plenty of updates on these next 40 days! Nerd Katie (or intellectual badass as my sister, Suzy, put it) is fascinated by the Bible... I love just studying it and hearing other people's thoughts on scripture. Will let you all know how it goes :)

What are y'all giving up (or taking on)??

P.S. I fly out to Aspen tomorrow for the weekend and I could not be any more excited!! I've had my outfits planned for like a week now! Anyways, let's all send up a prayer or two that I don't compleeettteelllyyy make a fool of myself or break anything while attempting to ski... we all know how coordinated I am :(

Weekend Update

Happy Sunday, everyone! I have big news... sort of. I cooked fish and asparagus for dinner tonight! And the 'big news'... not only was it edible, it was actually GOOD! Clearly, it's the small things that make me happy :)

This weekend was wonderful. We all went out Thursday night.. it was ladiez night y'allll. Friday morning, I got up and went to work for a few hours, got my nails done and headed to Jackson. I got there in time for dinner with my parents (ate the ENTIRE 8 oz. filet from Ruth Chris and could've kept going... skinny). Then Saturday included breakfast with the brother, my nephew's basketball game, lunch with my Young Life leader and shopping with Mama (duh). My sweet nephew's basketball game was hilarious. He's 6.. so I'm sure you can imagine! And to make things better, my brother is one of the coaches. I can't decide who was funnier to watch- Hastings or Peyton. Anyways, the only thing that would've made the day better was if Suzy (my sister) and her family were in town... if y'all didn't know already, I have the best family in the world. Hands down. Sorry bout it.

This morning, I went to church with Rob and his fiance. They have started going to the Fondren Church in Jackson. Anyone in that area- go check it out... it was GREAT. I am so blessed to be surrounded with not only a loving family, but one that also seeks the Lord.

This morning before church, I read a passage from Habakkuk (okay okay I admit it, I had to use the Table of Contents for that one :/)

"Even though the fig trees have no blossom, and there are no grapes on the vines; even though the olive crop fails,and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation! The Sovereign Lord is my strength! He makes me as surefooted as a deer, able to tread upon the heights."
Habakkuk 3:17-19

Weelllll, I had to do some research, considering I'm not exactly familiarized with this particular book. However, it really struck me. Pretty amazing that, throughout all of the tough conditions Habakkuk has to endure, he is still rejoicing in the Lord. He is still faithful and surefooted. I think this is an amazing example of FULLY relying on the Lord. So, I'm starting off the week with the goal to fully rely on the Lord, or more importantly- remain joyful in Him, not just in good (or bad) but in ALL conditions!

I'm off to hit the treadmill for a QUICK jog... Hope this week is amazing for everyone :)

Top Ten Workout Songs :)

So... Everyone (in college at least) gets motivated at the gym this time of year for one main reason: SPRING BREAK! Here at State, everyone tends to go to Destin. I mean EVERY.O.N.E. So, obviously, bathing suit + all of your friends = weight loss (or in my case, just whining about being a beached whale the whole trip... freshmen year anyone?)


Well, this SB I'm going to the Big Apple with Mama and a few of her and my friends! I literally cannot wait! Even though I'm not going to the beach, I'm still motivated to get fit for one sole purpose: SHOPPING. Clothes just look cuter when you feel better about your body. (Or that's what I think at least :))


My point of this post is this: I finally revamped my workout playlist to, what I think is, perfection! Thought I'd share my top 10 faves. It's extremely random, ranging from oldies to rap... some say I'm weird, I'm choosing to claim 'versatile'. Just a warning- some might be slightly vulger. But I listen to them only because I like the beat..... or that's the excuse I'm sticking to.


1. Teenage Dream (Katy Perry)- any of my best friends have witnessed my absolute love for this song. It will NEVER get old to me. ever.


2. Starships (Nicki Minaj)- Nicki. Enough said.


3. Kerosene (Miranda Lambert)- Random, I know. But honestly, who doesn't love a girl plotting revenge??

4. Stereo Hearts (Adam Levine and Gym Class Heroes)- Cheesy but I love.

5. Forever Young (Rod Stewart)- I am my mother's child when it comes to Rod :)

6. Dancing in the Moonlight (King Harvest)- Good start up song.

7. Like A Prayer (Madonna)- This song, and Madonna, will NEVER get old!!!

8. Ass Back Home (Gym Class Heroes)- Sorry for the bad word :/

9. Pretty Girl Rock (Keri Hilson)- "All eyes on me when I walk in..." okay well if that were EVER the case, I better not look like a whale.

10. Part of Me (Katy Perry)- Last but certainly not least: my absolute favorite. Take that for dumping my girl KP, Russell Brand. Nothing motivates me more than revenge (hypothetically speaking, of course ;))


ENJOY and happy running, y'all. I'm off to get ready for a night on the town with my besties- sure do love them. Speaking of besties, shout out to my roomie KATHLEEN for dragging me out of bed at 7am and making me go to the gym with her, despite the nasty things I miiiiight have yelled at her in the process of waking me up. Sorry bout it, girlfriend.

Happy weekend to all, I feel another post coming on tomorrow :)

Valentine's Day

Hey all... I have a confession: I LOVE VALENTINE'S DAY! I have never ever had a boyfriend on the day, but I love the holiday. I love the pink and red combo, the abundance of chocolate and flowers. I mean really, who doesn't love chocolate and flowers??

AND to make it even better... my sweet mama ALWAYS sends a happy my way. Talk about the best mama ever ( love ya May May :))

We ALL know I love a good baked good :)

And lastly, let us not forget the best love of all :)

Wishing everyone a happy happy day!

Blogger Fail

I've been MIA... majorly. My bad, my bad. As I told in my last post, I had a weekend trip to Texas Tech. Short and sweet but mannnnn was it fun! After returning to Starkville on Monday, I immediately hit the books to study for a Physiology test on Tuesday. Mmmm.. confession: I LOVE biology classes (the material, not the studying part). Closet nerd- right here. So, there's my excuses for not blogging!

Doing my devotion a little late today. I usually start my day off with it, buuut I overslept. Sorry bout it. Anyway, the passage I read was Matthew 14:28-32 and was a story I've heard since I was in, like, pre-school. But, what I love about stories that you've heard a million times, you hear something/learn something new from it each time.

This is the story of Peter, who is fishing, and Jesus tells Peter to walk to Him. So, as Peter steps onto the water, wind and waves hit him and he begins to sink. He cries out to Jesus to help him, and Jesus does. Soooo, when sinking, look to the Lord. Do not get discouraged...He knows our weaknesses (better than even we do) and will meet us there. Something I should  quit telling other people to do and work on it myself! So, I think I'll add that to my list of things to work on :)

Sorry to sound preachy, but I thought it was cool that such a common Bible story can STILL give insight, even after reading it a bazillion times!

Here's some weekend pics:

It was an 80's party.... I swear.

aaaand I'm bored with pictures now... sooo that's all! Good night and GO DAWGS (we play Ole Miss tomorrow night!! :))

Procrastination Station

Happy hump day y'all! I have a test tomorrow, clothes waiting to be folded, and a suitcase to pack.... buuuut in typical Katie fashion, I'm avoiding it :) It's a skill... really it is.

I can't contain my excitement because after my test tomorrow, I'm headed to Jackson to catch a flight Friday morning to Texas Tech! What's there, you ask? Ohhh, just an awesome friend I met working at a Young Life camp in British Columbia a few summers ago. Alex and I both worked at Malibu in BC and became fast friends. We've kept up since then and I CANNOT wait to see her this weekend! Other work crew friends, be jealous... and probably a little bit worried- y'all know what a disaster we are when we get together! :)

Alex visiting State my freshmen year! (This was clearly before the freshmen 15 kicked in..)

I LITERALLY DIED when I saw this... struggling back there?

Last but certainly not least, our pride and joy. We were in charge of those coffee makers. We're legit, I know. We messed up and they overflowed at least once a week. And Harold yelled at us, at least once  a week.

Happy rest of the week/weekend to all.... Look for a new post Monday- with PLENTY of good stories I'm sure! :)

P.S. Birmingham was fabulous Sunday/Monday- thanks to all for the the thoughts, calls, messages and prayers. The Lord sure has blessed me with far more than I deserve:) NOW- still keep your fingers crossed, I sure did love the Birmingham area.  

I have NEWS!!!

Hello everyone... Yes, it is prime time on a Saturday night and I'm bloggging. I'm sooo cool.

Actually, I'm feeling a little bit under the weather and, with a trip to Birmingham tomorrow (including a meeting with the nursing school to review my prerequisites) I DO NOT HAVE TIME TO BE SICK. So, I found a doctor open today, got a shot and an array of meds. He promised me I'd be ready to roll tomorrow.

Well, I said I had some news- and boy do I! Friday around lunchtime, I got some awesome news. Ya girl here got accepted to the MUW nursing program!! Talk about a relief! I am still waiting to hear from two others, but I at least KNOW I'm in somewhere!! With the date party being last night, I had even more reason to celebrate- and I sure did! My sweet date probably heard "I'm gonna be a nurse, y'allllllll" about 9 million times throughout the night... sorry bout it! God is so good and certainly is looking out for me! I am so thrilled and a little bit freaked out that I will being leaving State after this semester. It is definitely bittersweet, but every season is a change and I feel extremely blessed for the amazing opportunities ahead.

With that being said, my game face is still on. There are two more acceptance letters that I would LOVE to come my way :) Mama, Daddy and I are headed to Birmingham tomorrow to check out the area then on Monday I meet with the nursing advisor. Applications aren't due until April, so I won't hear from them until May or June. June will be SO EXCITING with my brother's wedding- so, I want to have a game plan in case I do get in and decide to go. Here's to a potentially crazy exciting summer! 

Thank you to everyone who has sent sweet messages, been there for me when I obnoxiously freak out about the future, and the many prayers that have been said. I am really excited for the future and whatever it holds... and relieved that I won't go 0 for 3 when it comes to applications!

Nurse Katie... sure does have a scary ring to it :) Happy weekend... hope yours has been as amazing as mine!

help a sista out!

Good morning!!! I woke up at 6am WIDE awake and couldn’t go back to sleep. It’s fiiiine. So, I hopped up and went on a short jog (to my car…. That I left at the bar last night. At least I was responsible AND got some exercise?).

Now, I’m sitting here drinking coffee, watching the Today Show and reading a bit. When did I become an old woman??

Anyways, I need help! As I was jogging this morning, I realized that my running playlist needs a bit of a face lift. I’ve had the same songs from like… two years ago. And it’s getting old. So, if anyone has any suggestions PLEASE help a sista out! Suzy, I know you’ve got some, so send them my way :) 

Also, I need help again! I know, I’m very needy today. I’m going to Birmingham to look at UAB nursing school (fingers crossed) and I would like to also look around at areas to live in. I’m by no means jumping to conclusions or assuming that I’ll get in, but if I do, I’d need to find an apartment pretty quickly. So, anyone familiar with Birmingham? Hit me up with some good areas!

On a final note, I’ll leave y’all with a lovely vision… we have a date party tonight, 20’s themed! And due to a little bit of online ordering issues, I’m wearing a dress about 7 sizes too small…. My date is SOOOO lucky! Just kidding.

I’ll leave y’all with a little excerpt from my devotion this morning: Link your hope not to problem solving in this life but to the promise of an eternity of problem-free life in Heaven. (From Jesus Calling) 

Amen to that! I’m off to work on making a budget for myself… woah.

Post #2

Well hey.. really creative post title, I know! Excuse my absence yesterday (actually, I’ll probably never be a daily blogger). For some reason, I didn’t have any “get up and go” yesterday- as my mama would call it. But I finally did get moving, went to class, then step class at the Sanderson. I LOVE a good step or aerobics class.

This morning, I woke up before my alarm and couldn’t go back to sleep, so I went on a jog with my friend Madelon. It was a gorgeous day today! So gorgeous that, I later went on a walk with Strohm. Just call me cardio queen….

Speaking of working out, I have this issue where, I feel like I often worry too much about looking good enough or being good enough in general. I think that’s a typical problem for people. BUT…

Last week I was driving back to Starkville from home one morning, when a song came on. It was called “Someone Worth Dying For”. I’ll admit, I am not the most avid Christian music listener, but I enjoy it every now and then. This song really hit me in a great way. Pretty self-explanatory, but it was saying that Jesus thought we were worth dying for, and He didn’t endure an easy death at that. So I started thinking, who am I to question whether I'm good enough? Jesus thinks we’re worth dying for, so why are we questioning it?  Soooo... I’m hoping to focus more on just being who I am, and not worrying about the rest!

I’m off to study for a test that’s NEXT TUESDAY (just call me studious… Mama, I hope you’re reading this :)

P.S. My prayers are with the Branning family… God received quite an angel today!

Give me a break, I'm new!

Bear with me, I absolutely suck at this!

Well.. I sure never thought I’d be doing this. Buuuut here I am, blogger KP. And I have my reasons for doing so..

1.    I love reading blogs.

2.    My main reason: I have this severe discomfort when talking about faith related things. I’m extremely private when it comes to my walk with the Lord. I think, subconsciously, I feel not worthy to discuss my relationship with God. Like it’s not good enough or something… which it’s not. But, really, no one’s is. It’s a relationship that must be worked on daily, like any relationship. So, here’s to getting over that discomfort.

One of my many new year’s resolutions for 2012 (I have many lofty goals for this year :) watch out!) has been to write down my prayers. My dad/best friend (its whatever) suggested the book “Letters to God”, which provoked this resolution. It’s an amazing book with a very simple message and I highly recommend. Like, you HAVE to read it. But warning, you will cry. A LOT. Anyways, writing down my prayers has led to journaling which led to this. So, get ready for my odd thoughts that will be alllll over the place, some thoughts on what the Lord has showing me, and probably some cheesiness.

So, this morning- I read Proverbs 3:5-6 (Trust in the Lord with all your heart; Do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do and He will show you what path to take). Well, for a girl trying to get into nursing school, and having no idea where I’ll be in the fall, that was unbelievably comforting. See, I have this problem, where I know what I want, and I have a hard time understanding why it doesn’t always happen. Spoiled. Rotten. I know... I’m working on it. I know that I may not get into the nursing school I want (or any for that matter) but I have a calmness because I know it’s the Lord in control, not me. Continually seeking Him is hard stuff, and I usually (okay- always) fall short… but I’m giving it my best efforts. He hasn’t led me wrong yet; I have the most amazing life and am beyond undeserving. So, from this morning’s devotion, I want to work on continuing to seek Him, striving to do His will, and trust that He will take care of me. Contentment is a great feeling… happy Sunday, y’all!