The Girl Of Many Hats

Unspoken Words

2012-01-31T23:38:00.001-06:00

I think I have started and backspaced this post about 15 times now. I also just realized that I used “backspaced” as a verb and am wondering if it actually could be? Technically I guess.

I keep writing things so that they seem politically and morally correct which is a pain because I normally don’t care about those things. People are too sensitive. I care though, because I don’t want this to hurt you which in itself makes no sense.

I want so badly to be stay mad at you. It would be wonderful. I feel like I should be entitled to the feelings of anger. I feel like I have every right to want you to hurt as much as you hurt me.

But I can’t. I can’t stay mad at you. I’ve tried. Over and over again. I get to the same place every time…wishing that it was someone else that knew me so well and that had the ability to change my day as much as you do but secretly being glad that it’s you.

I did the whole “cleaning of Facebook friends” and you were still in the blocked list. I thought about taking you off of it but a part of me couldn’t do it because I don’t know that I’d ever be able to put you back on it if you did something like that again. I cleaned my messages, and couldn’t erase the ones from you.

I kept asking myself (and you too eventually) if we would ever be the same, and I’ve answered myself. Nope, we won’t be the same. I think somehow we’ve grown stronger from everything. I can’t explain why, but I always wondered what it would feel like to be told the things you admitted to me and still care enough about someone to see what happens and at least want them as a friend just so I could have them in my life.

I hate that you know me so well. I hate that you knew this was exactly what I was needing…to get all this off my chest and just type until I said what I needed to say. I hate that you can tell my day’s been bad just by me sending a one word text message that carried on conversation like normal. I hate all of those things, because I love them at the same time.

It’s A Lifestyle Change…Not A Diet

2011-12-28T14:14:00.001-06:00

I had been talking about getting in shape, changing the way I eat, etc. for quite some time as I’m sure everyone does. I was going to eat less junk food, drink less caffeine, and workout more….”starting Monday.” Monday came and went several times, and I always seemed to find some excuse to not start. I’d rationalize with myself about the fact that I’m really not fat, just needed to tone up, this that and the other excuse to not make me feel bad about failing at a goal I had set for myself.

That’s changed.

I joined a group on Facebook that has some of the most motivating ladies in it. I am clocking in right now at 5’9” and weighing around 150 lbs. I’ll get an exact weight when we get back from vacation along with pictures.

WebMD says I’m healthy and so does my doctor, but if I really want to lose a few pounds I can, but considering that I am tall anything less than 135 lbs. would look sickly. To be honest, I’m not really worried about how much I weight but more about how I feel.

I’m not going on a diet because that’s a temporary thing. I’m making a lifestyle change. Eating healthier, drinking less caffeine, and working out. Doing this, I know I’ll feel better and my wallet will be a little fatter from not drinking Starbucks at least once a day, if not more.

Here’s a picture from two years ago at the beach (I’m the one on the left). Most would throw something at me for even thinking I have anything to lose but there are things about my body that I want to change and make even better so that I look and feel my best…to me. I’m not basing it off of magazine articles or anything of the sort or plastic people, but how I feel.

In the process of me eating healthier, I’m hoping that my mom sees me eating healthier and will start doing something and I can in turn change how my little brother eats before it gets to be a huge issue.

I will do this, and I look forward to taking everyone along for the ride with me.

agnbnfs;’nXznzZBF[BDFKBDDbfzlds slhj isdetyu5ow65n

2011-12-16T00:15:00.001-06:00

As an English teacher once told me, a title should summarize the general idea of what you are writing about while capturing your audience. I thought the craziness that is the above title seemed appropriate. There was a point to that, and it wasn’t just that Bailey wanted to try her ~~hand~~ paw at the typing world.

Life has been a little hectic the last few months. Actually the last few years, but there’s a button for previous posts if you’d like to read about all that.

In the last few months, I decided that the University Of Alabama wasn’t really the place for me, which came as a shock to a lot of friends and family because it always had been. Honestly, I can’t explain it other than it just changed. Even more honesty, it might not be that it changed, but rather I changed.

I see things completely differently now. The people, the town, the fans…all of it. I still love the campus. I still love the people. Well, some of them. I guess what changed is that I stopped caring as much about sports as I used to and realized at the end of the day, it wouldn’t matter if I knew all the stats or who committed to Alabama or decommitted. I didn’t play. I didn’t practice. There were more important things in life.

As a Freshman, I really didn’t give other universities the time of day because I was an Alabama fan and couldn’t imagine going anywhere else. I thought because I was an Alabama fan, I had to go there. There are things I would do differently, but at the end of the day I have no regrets because I’m still a firm believer in that everything happens for a reason.

So, all that being said…I am moving back home over the next few days which is going to take some getting used to. I took on two part time Nanny jobs that will basically make a little more than a 9-5 week. I’ve still got basic classes to finish up which I plan on doing at Jeff State while I figure out where I want to, or if I even want to, go back to college full-time. At some point I’m going to have to, but I’m not sure if it’ll ever be at UA again.

Other than that, here’s what’s been going on the last few months:

One of the besties gets married…and I’m the “Photographer.”

I took over 2,000 pictures at their wedding so I can’t possibly post them all, but it was amazing to be honored with being asked, especially since I just do the picture taking as a hobby. Little tough to take pictures through the happy tears at times though.

Pumpkin Patch

First Trip Ever To Auburn

Yeah, that was a little different. Wasn’t sure how it would go over, but overall I loved the people and the campus. Totally different atmosphere than Alabama and ironically, the guy in the picture is now the boyfriend.

Michael’s Growing…Fast

Yeah, and getting into everything.

tap tap Is This Thing On?

2011-10-06T18:30:00.003-05:00

It has been quite a while since these fingers have started typing ready to post something to this little space of the world wide web I call mine (although it's actually Bloggers). I wish I could say I had to dust the keyboard before typing this, but for anyone that knows me they know this is certainly not the case. In fact, over the last few months I feel like I've spent my life with my seemingly new boyfriend Mr. Acer and his children Facebook, Twitter, and Gmail.

A year ago I started a business called Getting Social in which I designed and helped businesses run their Facebook pages to better meet the needs of their fans since Facebook is/was taking over the world. I did it for a family "friend" and she suggested I start my own page and get to work because she knew so many that could use the services I was offering. It started out great; I had a full client list and clients on a waiting list waiting for me to make their pages...and that's when it went downhill.

Don't get me wrong, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity I had to create for some amazing women and businesses. What some of these businesses owners went through on a daily business I would cringe at and simply couldn't imagine. I thought I just had the best clients in the world (this was the blissfully ignorant stage). I had never dealt with a customer that wasn't completely satisfied by the job I had done or the communication, etc. Naturally, I thought I had a pretty good system.

I was wrong.

During this process I was also taking a full load of classes during my Freshman year at the University that I dreamed of going to since I was little. UA doesn't seem like a dream school but once if you visited, you'd understand...or most people do anyway. Bottom line: I took on more than I could handle and wasn't giving 100% to anything I was doing. I started getting unsatisfied customers, bad grades, and just overall incredibly stressed which wasn't pleasant for anyone.

Since then, I've closed down that "little business" because it was too much for one person that was taking classes and also working another part time job. People think I'm crazy for shutting down a business that was thriving but it was what was best for me and the point I am at in my life.

I said all that to say, here recently I've realized how much time I have spent with Mr. Acer over the last year. It took away from schoolwork, family time, and from time I could have been spending possibly getting into a relationship that didn't involve a hard drive to work. This past week I deactivated my Facebook and I can not tell you how liberating it has been! I've found the joys in things I didn't even know I was missing. I've found I have much more time to focus on things I need to focus on like schoolwork and many of the other organizations I am involved in on campus. Not to mention, I have more time to write about the things I enjoy, learn new things like how to cook all these delicious looking recipes (thank you Pinterest), and enjoy the time with family and friends that God has blessed me with.

A co-worker and one of my best friends asked me how I stay connected with everyone and I told her it was simple, because everyone that I talk to on a normal basis calls me on the phone, texts me, or will tweet me if they really need me. I just had no need for the crazy stalker page anymore that gave people information on me I would rather them just assume ask me personally anyway.

So here's my challenge...deactivate your Facebook. Take it off your phone. Log out. See how many times in a week you think about wanting to log on and tally those up. At the end of the week look at how many times you resisted and think about how much time that could have been put towards something else that might have a little more meaning.

I look forward to getting back into the swing of things.

Roll Tide and God Bless,
The Bama Chick

I’m Coming Home and Day 2

2011-03-07T23:04:00.001-06:00

I never have been one of those girls to get into the reality shows. I am never in the loop on American Idol, The Bachelor, The Bachlorette, etc. They just don’t interest me. What’s the reality of finding true love on television, or not finding it and then getting a redo, or your own television show?

I will admit that I got pretty into the Grey’s Anatomy. I mean honestly though, who at any given point has that many good looking men around you at one time? Certainly not me. I wish that was my reality. Fun show to escape with. Something my MaMa and I watched together every Thursday night religiously for quite a while. Now though I am sad to say that I have no idea what is going on.

Tonight I came across a show called Coming Home. What a terrific show. I was in tears for almost a solid hour but in a good way. This show arranges for men and women in our military that are also mommies and daddies to make it home for important events in their child’s lives or just because they haven’t seen them in a long time.

One of the stories was about a high school senior that played football. His dad was his biggest fan. It came time for his Senior season to start and his dad was deployed to Afghanistan. Signing Day came…he wanted his biggest fan there and got him. This big football player was in tears at seeing his dad- his biggest fan there to share such a special moment. The rest were smaller children, and even more heartbreaking was the sight of these men in our military in tears at hearing their little boy or little girl say, “I love you Daddy.” (Seriously, I am tearing up just thinking about this).

What a terrific show. I know many of my readers have husbands and wives in the military. Thank you for giving up your time with your little boys and girls to serve our country. They say that being in the ring of fire is the hardest part, but I personally could never imagine having to leave my children and my family.

This show airs on Lifetime Sunday nights at 9pm CST. Definitely one of my new favorite shows.

With that…comes Day 2: Post a picture of someone that you have been closest with the longest.

Honestly, if we’re thinking time wise my parents would be the obvious choice and they are going to get a picture because without their guidance and strength over the years, I would not be who I am. However, along with them are other family members such as my sister, my grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, of course my brother…and of course some of the best friends a girl could ask for. They all get pictures because they have all been there and have all helped me through such important points in my life. I love each and every one of you so much.

30 Day Challenge: Day 1

2011-03-06T22:21:00.001-06:00

I know, I have been absent lately. I am not even sure when the last day I posted was and I could go check, but I am just not energetic enough to do that at the time. However, I am going to make an effort to keep this more updated as I know friends and family keep up with me through this and Facebook.

I am going to start by mentioning this 30 day challenge which you can find below:

Day 01 - A recent picture of you and fifteen interesting facts about yourself.
Day 02 - A picture of you and the person you have been closest with the longest.
Day 03 - A picture of a perfect date.
Day 04 - A picture of your night.
Day 05 - A picture of your favorite memory.
Day 06 - A picture of yourself and a family member.
Day 07 - An old picture of yourself.
Day 08 - A picture that makes you laugh.
Day 09 - A picture of the person who has gotten you through the most.
Day 10 - A picture of the person you do the most fucked up things with.
Day 11 - Something you hate.
Day 12 - Something you love.
Day 13 - A picture of your favorite band or artist.
Day 14 - A picture of someone you could never imagine your life without.
Day 15 - Something you want to do before you die.
Day 16 - A picture of someone who inspires you.
Day 17 - Something that has made a huge impact on your life recently.
Day 18 - Your biggest insecurity.
Day 19 - A letter to your parents.
Day 20 - Somewhere you'd love to travel.
Day 21 - Something you wish you could forget.
Day 22 - Something you wish you were better at.
Day 23 - Your favorite book.
Day 24 - Something you wish you could change.
Day 25 - A picture of your day.
Day 26 - A picture of something that means a lot to you.
Day 27 - A picture of a person you'd love to trade places with for a day.
Day 28 - Something you're afraid of.
Day 29 - A picture that can always make you smile.
Day 30 - A picture of someone you miss.
.

Every day, I will be posting a photo or something that relates to this challenge. Granted, it might be about other things too, but this will be included. Join with me. Peer pressure. Do. It.

So, without further ado here comes my photo for the 30 Day Challenge: Day 1.

Day 1: A recent picture of you along with 15 facts about yourself.

1. This picture is from an Alabama football game.

2. Big Al could be my best friend. This will be determined later.

3. I spend my Fall Saturdays in Bryant-Denny Stadium or in the stadium of the other team we are playing.

4. I spend some weeknights and some weekends in Coleman Coliseum watching the Bama men play basketball.

5. I spend the other weeknights and most weekends at The Joe watching the men in tight pants hit a ton of balls (with any luck).

6. I have a mommy, a daddy, a sister, and a brother.

7. I am 19 years old (will be 20 in October), have a sister that will be 18 in October and my brother will be 2 in August.

8. We all have the same Mommy and Daddy…

9. My family means the world to me and are the reason I am who I am. Which means that, you can blame them.

10. My friends mean the world to me. Most of my friends are guys because…

11. I hate drama. Can’t stand it. If I can avoid it, I do. Simple as that.

12. I own two businesses: one of which makes heat pressed t-shirts and other goodies the other in which I design FB Business pages and other business needs.

13. I am majoring in Elementary Education and Special Education because I love children which shocks a lot of people because it has nothing to do with design or sports.

14. Believe it or not, my hero is not “Bear” Bryant… or Nick Saban.

15. I am the master at giving these 15 facts without actually revealing anything about myself.

Mom’s Words Taken To Heart

2011-01-30T01:22:00.001-06:00

When I was younger, my MaMa (below mason dixin line talk for “mother”) used to tell me “If you don’t have anything nice to say, then don’t say anything at all.” This, along with many other nifty slogans if you want to call them that…helped me to grow in life.

This… explains my absence. Honestly, the last week and a half I have had absolutely nothing nice to say. Actually, I spent a few days with the innate desire to punch someone in the face and watch their tiny little frame hit the floor while I laughed.

But, my mother also said violence never solves anything…unless they start it first. And, while they did “start it”, their “it” was over a keyboard where nothing physical was done. I would have had more respect for them had they tried to throw a physical punch instead of “facebook slapping” me.

Oh technology…how you really have changed the world.

ANYWAY, while granted there have been some things here recently that have put me in a, shall we say, not so fun to be around mood there has been a lot of good going on lately too which got me to thinking…

More times than none, something bad happens and it is noticed. Something good happens, and it is overshadowed. “There’s always a bad seed that ruins it for the bunch.”

I want to say congratulations to a very dear friend of mine, actually-my best friend on her engagement. We had been not in the best of terms due to some other things but she called me with the news along with the news that I am her maid of honor and it was incredible to hear that somoene I care so much about, is well on her way to getting the life she always wanted and deserved.

In the same week, I found out a coworker and friend is also getting married which is also incredible news. Not to mention, added incentive to get my butt in shape before the Summer holidays!

This, along with some other great news regarding my work both at Bama Fever and Getting Social got overshadowed by the fact that I was mad and wanted to hate the world…and it isn’t even that period in a month when I hate my life for about a week (no pun intended of course).

I got to thinking about how many times I do this. How many times something good is overshadowed by the bad? Probably WAY more than I’d like to admit. Then I got to thinking about how many times other people do the same thing…

How many times has the fact that your child had an awesome day at school been overshadowed by the fact that you had a crappy day at work? How many times has the fact that your husband left the toilet seat up overshadowed the good things he’s done?

My mission this week is to focus on the good and not the bad. “Bad” things are going to happen, but they only effect us as much as we let them…and I choose for that to be no more than I can run or sweat off.

The Things I Couldn’t Say

2011-01-12T00:14:00.000-06:00

My PYHO this week is a private post only those extremely close to me can see and I apologize for that, but one person in particular needed to know some things…and I didn’t think it appropriate for everyone to see.

Nevertheless, this is my public post and I hope that it makes sense for those that “have” to do things.

The same person I was talking about earlier is losing his grandfather and he believes his grandmother very soon. This is sad for a couple reasons: they are really his last connection to his mother that passed away two Thanksgivings ago, they are his grandparents, and this guy loves his family.

He was telling me about what was going on and I couldn’t help but watch as tears began to glisten in his eyes. This guy though, is also incredibly strong so I knew he was not about to cry in front of me. That didn’t stop me from giving him a hug though…even though I knew he didn’t want it.

This particular guy, once a very close friend…is now someone I barely know and the same thing could be said for me I am sure; except the guy part of course. It kills me knowing that 1)He is pushing me away and 2) That as much as I would love to help him…I can’t, because he won’t let me.

His grandparents mean something to me as well oddly enough. I’ve never actually met them as every time I was supposed to I got sick or plans fell through some other way, but they mean a lot to me…because they support someone that is very important in my life.

As he was telling me about his grandparents, I couldn’t help but think how many times I tell someone “I have to call my grandmother.” I thought about how many times people say, “I have to go to work.” I thought about how many times I hear parents say, “I have to take my kids to soccer practice.”

“I have to”…odd words for such amazing things that we get to do. Not everyone has grandparents they can call. Not everyone has a job they get to go to. Not everyone has kids they get to take to soccer practice. These are all things we get to do…and are blessed to have the opportunity to do.

Once again, even though this friend of mine is really not someone in my life he impacted my life yet again without even knowing it. Please say a prayer for him and his family during these tough times. You never know when someone else might need a prayer.

So, I get to start classes tomorrow. I get to further my education. I get to call my mom and dad and tell them about my new classes and what all happened. I get to experience all these incredible things. I get to wake up early in the morning.

I hope sometime soon, I get to have this friend in my life again and that he realizes I’m there…through it all.

I hope everyone had a terrific holiday and for those near Alabama enjoyed the snowstorm that we so rarely get around here.

-Cameon

Holiday Season

2010-12-23T01:51:00.001-06:00

It’s the most ~~terrible, no good, very bad, dreadful~~ wonderful time of the year!

As with every Christmas season and as everyone else is, I am driven crazy with what to buy for people and with which parties and functions I must attend either with my friends or with my parents. Not to mention, I work in retail so this time of year is always especially ~~torturous~~ fun.

However, along with all of the craziness that this time of year brings it also brings those traditions that have been going on since I was little. Tonight started those traditions for me and my family.

Our family has a lot of traditions but one of the main ones I missed this year was helping to decorate the Christmas tree. We have two (at least): one that MaMa “professionally decorates” and one that my sister and I decorate with all of the family ornaments and ornaments we’ve made throughout the years. I came home from college, and both trees were already up.

It’s not that I expected for them to wait until I got home for the Christmas holiday to set up the Christmas decorations. My family is much like National Lampoons Christmas…seriously. No, it more so looking at the decorations and how things had changed.

This was my ornament for my 1st Christmas in 1991 given to me obviously by my grandmother.

This was my brother’s 1st Christmas ornament in 2009. Hehe. SURPRISE!!

Also, this year MaMa got us new ornaments. We’ve collected many over the years to “represent each member of our family. Some are pretty funny, and some would require explanation I don’t they would appreciate me explaining.

Last night was my Dad’s office Christmas Party. They have one every year around this time and it is always roughly the same. We eat, catch up with everyone, eat some more, ask how the family is, eat more (hey, we’re not ranked #3 in obesity for no reason), and then kiss the kids and everyone and leave.

Today will bring my Dad’s office Shop party which is different than the office party. Mostly the same people, but different setting. Everyone comes in jeans and a shirt (most of the time) and there are tables and chairs set out. There will be fried fish that’s to die for, beans, coleslaw, and pretty much anything else you can imagine. Not really Christmas food, but boy is it yummy! Not to mention, there’s always a good time to be had.

Christmas Eve we will go to my NaNa’s and have Christmas Eve supper out in Cook Springs. “Santa” used to come to our celebration, until we lost my great uncle two years ago. Quite honestly, it’s never been the same. However, it is always a reminder of how much we really need to spend more time with one another and how thankful we are for everyone. There’s gifts, food, and love…all celebrated Southern style.

All traditions. All things that I love.

And this year, for the first time since I’ve been alive at least we have a legitimate chance of SNOW ON CHRISTMAS!!

Merry Christmas everyone!

Cameon

Pour Your Heart Out Wednesday: “Choose Your Identity”

2010-12-15T03:34:00.001-06:00

As I went to comment on Helen’s post at I’m Living Proof That God Has A Sense Of Humor, it asked me to “Choose An Identity.”

“If only it were that easy,” I thought to myself.

Last week when I wrote for Pour Your Heart Out Wednesday, I was no less confused than I am today. I am not anymore sure of myself than I was a week ago. I am not anymore confident in what I want, who I am, or who other people are than I was (whatever 24x7 is) hours ago.

But in a way, I am.

I wish it were as easy as “picking an identity.”

This past week has really tested the identity that I had been picking for quite some time. Usually, I am the best friend. I will do anything and everything to protect and take care of the people in my life no matter what they might do to me. Normally, I am the girl that keeps her cool in any situation and has more patience than any person should ever possibly have. Normally, I am there for someone else way before myself. More often times, I’m taken advantage of.

This past week, I wanted to be someone that could stay mad. I wanted to not be a good person. I wanted to scream and yell and (admittedly) punch something. I didn’t want to take care of her after what she did. Not after the lies that had been told and everything that had happened. I didn’t want her in my bed because she didn’t want to be alone while she felt bad. I didn’t want to help her on her Blount paper or her Math homework.

Fail.

I did all those things, and have one less “friend” to show for it anyway.

I really do wish it were as simple as picking an identity.

Profile 1: I could be this fabulously chic girl with the designer bag and the Prada shoes to boot (get it? shoes? boot?…) I would have all the cute and super fashionable clothes that draped perfectly over my size 2 frame soaking wet. Throw in a tea-cup sized puppy that bounces when it barks and you have profile 1.

Profile 2: I could be the sport chick that goes around in her under armor and cleats most of the time trekking mud everywhere. My mood on and off the field/court is “Work Hard, Play Tough” and for this reason, there are no men in my life. Who needs men? I’m going to be a famous athlete and make millions on my own.

Profile 3: I could be every guy’s best friend. Yes, you know the girl I am talking about. That girl that most women ~~secretly~~ not so secretly hate because they connect with your man better (or so you think) than you do. I talk with your man, drink a beer with your man, watch the game with your man, etc. Funny thing is, all the while “your man” has no idea that I’m not a man. I’m the one he talks to about everything, including how much he loves you. I’m that girl.

~~Profile 4~~ Not really…that would get old fast.

I don’t pick Profile 1, 2, or 3. They aren’t who I am.

I don’t pick any of those profiles or any others that I create from my heightened sense of ~~sleep deprivation~~ creativity because truthfully, at some point or another, there is a little of everything in me.

I’m not the fabulously chic girl (I don’t even know if Prada makes shoes) by any means unless my fabulous roommates decide to dress me up in something from their closet and do my make up and hair all fancy like. In fact, my wardrobe consists of a lot of crimson in support of UA sports 97% of the time and make up…well, that just doesn’t happen a whole lot.

I’m not the sport chick, because I tore my ACL in the 5th grade and it’s never been the same. Plus, I’d rather watch than play most of the time when it comes to sports.

Ok, I could be profile 3 but only part of the time. I have a lot of guy best friends and always have and never want that to change.

More importantly though, I’m just “Cameon Shiflett.” I’m The Girl Of Many Hats hoping one day I’ll find just the right one that goes with almost everything.

You can Pour Your Heart Out too! Visit Shelle’s Things I Can’t Say to learn more!

Assignment 4- CAT 200

2010-12-10T20:56:00.001-06:00

Cameon Shiflett

December 9, 2010

Assignment 4

After reviewing several different computer systems and the software to go with them, the computer that best suits the needs of an educator and the students as well would be the Toshiba Satellite laptop. On sale at Best Buy for $349.99, this laptop has several features that make it such a great buy and has gotten outstanding reviews. This Toshiba laptop has a 15.6” inch display which makes it very suitable to work on both for educators and students. This computer also has a 2.2 Intel Celeron processor which means that it has a fast processing system allowing for tasks to be completed quickly and efficiently. This processing speed is also helpful in terms of software that an educator might want to put on it.

This Toshiba laptop has a battery life of almost five hours which is a great tool in helping with educating on the go and getting lesson plans and other software done in preparing to get things ready for a classroom. This laptop also has the ability to read a graphics card that you would find in a camera or other media device which would be helpful in an educator being able to take pictures and upload them onto a school website as far as lesson plans or other class activities.

This laptop comes with Microsoft Works 9 and Adobe Acrobat Reader which are both extremely useful tools in the education field. Microsoft Works has the Microsoft Word which will help in typing up lesson plans or other hand outs to hand to students, Microsoft Powerpoint which will help with the visual learners, and also Microsoft Excell which helps in creating spreadsheets and other things that can help an educator with organization.

Thoughtful Thursday

2010-12-09T03:56:00.001-06:00

**Yesterday was supposed to be Wordless Wednesday as well, so that was the picture. Words can’t describe how much I love this little man and how I can’t wait (but actually can) to have little ones of my own and experience this with them.**

Today’s post comes really early, or late in many cases. I can’t sleep…again. I slept amazingly well last night but alas the reason I slept so well is gone. Grrr…

I read a lot of blogs today through Shelle’s Pour Your Heart Out Wednesday. Some of them were funny. Some of them were sad…but most of all I was reminded of why I love to blog so much.

My Daddy called me out tonight about blogging and the hours in which I do so. Quite honestly it doesn’t take me that long to type up a blog but I think he was more referring to what time I usually post blogs (note to self, set scheduled time for blog posts).

I told him I blog to get away. I blog to take a break. I blog to relax and let everything that has been going on lose so that I don’t go crazy. I didn’t use to think it mattered, but it really does.

I’ve said before that my parents are my best friend. Just like any best friends our best friends our are best friends for various reasons. We have those best friends that are there for everything. We have those best friends that are there to make sure we make the right decisions and keep our head on straight. Then we have those best friends that we know we can say anything and they will emotionally be there.

Today, I called my MaMa and told her everything that had been going on. I was visibly upset even over the phone and she could tell almost instantly. I love talking to my MaMa because I know she will know exactly what to say. Today was no different. She got me through the day and said exactly what I needed for her to say.

My Daddy also called me on his way home from work and he said exactly what my Daddy needed to say. Obviously, I talked to him about classes and finals and worrying about them and other things but he told me that I needed to have the attitude of “I’ve got this. I am going to blow this out of the water!” because I could and I appreciate that more than you can imagine. I needed to hear that.

Megan, my sister was making comments in the background while I was talking to my mom true to Megan form and I also heard little man making cute little noises in the background. These are all sounds and things I needed to hear today for one reason or another. I’m so thankful to have them in my life.

I know my posts here recently have been about my family, but going to college has really made me appreciate them that much more. Most people go off to college and the first thing they do is rebel and do all the things their parents wouldn’t allow them to do. Not me, and I think it was because I knew that I could always be honest with my parents no matter what happened/what I did. Because of this, I never really felt the need to rebel.

Even now, being in a traditionally “party town” I don’t feel the need to go out and drink or start smoking or become a girl that guys see as easy and I have my family to thank for that. Right and wrong are engrained in me forever I believe.

That, and I like being in control.

Gratitude

For those of you that don’t know, meet my little brother Michael. He is 16 months old and the only man I need in my life. To say he was a surprise would be a drastic understatement but he was really what my family needed.

His little giggle makes the worst of days better and he reminds me of how much love can be in one person. I hate that we lose that sometimes as we get older.

He reminds me of how much I want kids when I get to that point in my life.

Pour Your Heart Out- Questions That Haunt Me

2010-12-08T13:36:00.001-06:00

I recently came across Things I Can’t Say. Even more so a post called, Pour Your Heart Out. The thought of just pouring your heart out about something once a week that you have been holding back was instantly intriguing and I thought today was especially a good day to do this officially.

This is my first PYHO post, so bear with me if I am not doing something right.

Dear “friend,”

My parents always told me to trust my gut. And, even though my gut has had a few mishaps here recently, for the most part it is usually pretty accurate. As much as I didn’t want to believe that it was right this time, boy was it right.

Women know. They know when someone is trying to steal “their man.” Something changes. Most often, their face lights up when they mention his name or suddenly they start talking about him WAY more than they used to. Not in a “hey we just started talking and became friends and I’m excited” talking about him but a “I’m a puppy with a new toy” kinda talkin’.

You were easy to trust. You were someone I could trust with whatever was going on. You were simple. You were there. You have a boyfriend.

My, My, My how things can change.

I wasn’t worried about you talking to him because I trusted him. I know as much as you might try and dig your claws into him there was no way that he was going to come running because quite frankly, he is completely in love with me. I saw that again last night when I mentioned this all to him.

I had to, because this thing between you and him or really just you was getting in the way of our friendship/relationship and I was not about to let that happen. He realized really quick after I explained everything why it was bothering me. Especially with everything that has happened the last few days.

I’ve come to realize that you “talk” to a lot of people that are interested in me. You talk about “me.” Oh, yes you do but I’ve read the things you’ve said and I now realize the things you said weren’t for my benefit, but for yours.

I ask you what you’d been up to all day and get “studying.” As much as I would have loved to believe this, after walking into my room earlier that day and seeing you and some other guy (the same guy that is supposed to be taking me on a date the next day) it was a little hard to believe.

I found out. They always do.

Make no mistake, this guy was not someone that I am heartbroken to lose. I didn’t even know him.

It’s you that I am disappointed in. You lied to me. You’re lying to him. You know that is not OK. You don’t care.

I’m fine. I’m not mad. I’m disappointed. In you. I’m disappointed in you.

I’m also disappointed in the fact that people know, all around our little dorm about this because it was made public. I’m now the girl that wasn’t quite good enough. Actually, most people probably don’t even know who I am. They just know you have a boyfriend and he was supposed to be going on a date with me.

I don’t care honestly. I really don’t care. I’ve been shown the last few days who my true friends are and been shown the relationships that are most important to me.

It’s Pour Your Heart Out Wednesday. This is me pouring my heart out saying, I’m disappointed in you but I am not going to do or say anything else because quite honestly, sometimes silence speaks louder than words.

They know though. They always do.

The Little Things

2010-12-06T12:21:00.001-06:00

I know how to sweep mess off a rug.

I know how to take care of someone when they are sick.

I know how to jump someone off if their car battery goes dead.

I know how to listen to someone when they have something going on and provide them with the best advice possible.

I know how to be strong and make tough decisions in life.

I know how to be who I am, and no one else and not mind what anyone thinks of me.

I know how to be strong in my opinions even if I know that someone might hate me for a little while because in the end they will respect me.

I know how to do all these things, and I never realized until recently that not everyone does. I have my parents to thank for knowing how to do all of these things.

My Dad taught me how to get mess off of a rug with a broom. I remember the day he taught me how to do that. We were on the pontoon boat and my job was to get the carpets clean. I was doing it wrong and true to Daddy fashion, he comes up behind me with his “You are doing something wrong” stance. Then the Daddy ever so patiently says, “Can I show you something?” Being just like him I resist, because I want to do it by myself and I know once he gets that broom, I will not get it back. Being insistent though, I finally give in and give him the broom and watch him get the carpets almost completely clean with just a broom.

I can do that now.

I can take care of people because my family members have taught me how throughout the years.

I can listen to people because my family members have taught me how.

I can be strong and firm in the decisions I make and not back down because my parents have taught me how to do that over the years.

I learned all of these things from my family. From my parents. From my grandparents. From my sister. From my friends.

I didn’t realize that not everyone was blessed like I am with friends and family that taught them all of these things. I didn’t realize just how blessed I was.

My parents and family members all around have really taken the time and had the patience (well, most of the time) to make sure I became the person that I am today. They made sure I knew how to walk. They made sure I knew how to talk (which they might regret now). They made sure I knew right from wrong. They made sure I knew how to take care of myself.

Not everyone is as lucky as I am.

Gratitude:

MaMa or “Mom” for those that don’t drink iced sweet tea. I am so grateful for her as she is the main one that listens when I have boy problems and am in need of that shoulder or ear to listen to me. She has taught me that it is OK to be who I am and that there are always going to be tough times. She struggles with her appearance and will probably kill me for posting this picture but she doesn’t understand that she truly is beautiful inside and out. Whenever I have a problem she helps me look at things from all of the angles and not just the “Cameon view.” Not many teenage girls have the relationship with their MaMa that I do, and I’m so thankful that I do.

Daddy or “Dad'” to the Yankees. We have an interesting relationship because we are so much one in the same. We obviously look just a like (no denying that I am his daughter), but it runs deeper than that. My Daddy is a strong man. He’s had to make some tough decisions in his life based on the decisions that he made previously but he has dealt with them and made the best out of any situation. He has always been the one that has helped me to look at things from a rational and logical point of view instead of the emotional side. Not to mention, the one that has taught me lots about how to do odds and ends things that I am eternally grateful for learning how to do.

Megan is my sister and my rock and she probably doesn’t even know it. Truly beautiful inside and out, she is who she is and doesn’t really care what anyone else thinks. My sister has the work ethic that I wish I had. She had to work for the grades she made and she has an impeccable work ethic to show from it. Not only that, she has a way with shopping and putting things together that I wish I had. Case in point: what she is wearing in the photo to the right. I would never think about wearing that or putting that together. Not her, and it looks fabulous! I really think she should go into designing of some sort. We’re different. We’re 10 days shy of being two years apart. We’re sisters though, and nothing will ever break that bond.

I have SO many people to thank and be grateful for. Which is why you will see things like this posted at the bottom of my posts from now on.

My Challenge: So many times people have no idea how much they impact your life and you don’t even realize how so until it is too late. So my challenge today is to tell at least three people today how they have impacted your life and how grateful you are to them.

With Love,

Cameon

Just Friends

2010-12-02T16:49:00.001-06:00

It’s an interesting concept, letting someone go because it is the best thing for them. It’s happened a lot lately and I guess you never understand until you have to let someone go yourself.

It was easy to stay mad at him in the beginning. Honestly, a lot of things happened that made it incredibly easy to hate him. I never wanted to talk to him again. Never wanted to see him again. Never wanted to run into him again. I wanted to be left alone. I wanted a chance to live my life the way he had a chance to move on with his.

It was easy at first. You come up with all these excuses for why you should hate him. There’s about a million and one of them.

Then you talk to him and everything comes crashing down because as much as you would like to be mad at him, you can’t. He’s a great guy. He’s doing what he needs to do. Sometimes though, it is so much easier to know that they are a butthole for lack of a better word. Knowing they still care, knowing they did care makes it that much harder in my book.

The hardest part though, is realizing that you are that person to someone else and coming to the terms that you are holding them back from the life they should be able to experience. Realizing that you have been the person you’ve been hating for almost a year. Coming to terms with the realization that at the end of the day, you have to let them go so that they can be a better person. So that you can be a better person.

Sometimes loving someone is letting them go. I never understood that until here recently and suddenly I am getting an overdose of it. Now, I am realizing that while it might hurt now and while it might hurt for a little while, it will be better in the long run.

Things I’m grateful for:

1) The sunshine. Today was one of those days when I really needed the sunshine to be out and it has been a beautiful day in Tuscaloosa.

2) Getting older. I think in many ways college has changed me. I’ve heard all of my life that college is the best years of your life. I haven’t experienced all the things that make it that yet, but I have experienced some of finding out who I am and what I need to do.

3) Finals. I know this is weird but the way I’m looking at it, the sooner I get done with finals the sooner I go home.

4) Not working. I’ve decided for the most part to not work during Christmas break. I have been running 180 mph since school began (and even before then) and I am hoping to get a little break.

5) The ability to write. I know that sounds cocky and a little odd but honestly, I have realized not everyone can do it. I’m thankful for the ability because, it allows me to go back. It allows me to recollect on the things that are written in pen that can’t be erased. They are there forever, and no amount of white out can erase it.

Tis The Season To Be Jolly

2010-12-02T03:30:00.001-06:00

As this week is dead week at UA before our final exams I figured I might as well post now because from this moment on, it will be study study study in preparation for said exams.

In the week and a half that I have been away, I went home for Thanksgiving and spent most of that said day with Michael asleep on my chest which was perfectly fine. MaMa made her sweet potato casserole, MiMi made devil eggs and MaMa and Daddy (OK, mostly Daddy) actually made a turkey that was DELICIOUS! Definitely miss home cooked meals.

Thanksgiving also got me to thinking about how quickly life is changing. I got to thinking about that day when Megan or myself has that special someone (whether fiancé or husband) and we start having Thanksgiving at our house. Since I was little we had the kid table and adult table at all of the family functions (I am still at the kid table by the way) and I got to thinking how different things would be once all the grandkids had our own families.

Black Friday brought shopping for MaMa and Megan and being at Bama Fever at 6am for me. Of course, I just didn’t go to bed which made for a long day considering MaMa and I went to the Iron Bowl afterwards.

Sure, I wasn’t happy about the result of that game but I realized that I had so much to be thankful for such as getting to spend the day with my Mommy. There is a lot more about Alabama sports than just the actual game and I am excited to have this new outlook on sports. Gone are the days where I let what happens during a game effect my mood. It simply isn’t worth it and I have no right.

While at home for Thanksgiving, we took our Christmas card pictures. We always use Photography By Tonya and absolutely love her! In fact, the pictures throughout this post (besides the ones from the game of course) are ones that she took!

Cute right?!

In other news, Cam Newton was deemed eligible by the NCAA. There is so much to say on this topic, but quite frankly nothing I say or anyone else says is going to change the ruling that was made today. SEC Commissioner Mike Slave made a lot of enemies today with his press conference regarding the issue and quite frankly, I don’t think this is the end of the issue.

This year in college football has been unenjoyable. I know many of you are getting in your cars as I type the rest of this to come check on me because for me to say college football was not enjoyable for me must mean I am deathly ill and suffering from delusions.

Me not particularly enjoying this season had nothing to do with Alabama losing to LSU, South Carolina, and Auburn. Sure, while no one likes to lose (especially following a National Championship year) I knew we would. I hoped we wouldn’t, but knew we would. No, I hated this season because more than ever politics and money were brought into the game.

Alabama Basketball has had several games and I have been pretty impressed. Someone doubted me when they asked me how I thought the season was going to be and I got my “You might have been right” admission last week. I must say, it felt good.

Tonight, they played the University Of South Alabama. Josh Jones went with me and has gone to several games with me (both football and basketball) and been my “male friend” at sporting events. Although, the last couple of games he has not been able to go so I went by myself. Of course, some guy came up to me because I was the only girl in a group of guys and said, “Hey. Which one of these guys is your boyfriend?” Appalled, I responded, “If that was your attempt at a pick up line better luck next time. If you are that stupid, don’t talk.”

Of course, the camera guy decided to film me as I said this.

Speaking of which, if you come to an Alabama Men’s basketball game be prepared to see me on the big screen. Those guys evidently get a kick out of filming me.

I hope everyone had a terrific Thanksgiving. I might be posting more often as I need a break from studying every now and then.

Roll Tide,

Cameon

Cough, Cough, Sniff, Cough

2010-11-19T12:09:00.001-06:00

Yes, there is a crimson flannel blanket, a houndstooth flannel blanket, a comforter, and a sheet along with two pillows on this bed. For the past two days, I have been bundled up in the middle of all that.

Joy.

I am one of those people that doesn’t get sick very often but when I do, it’s usually bad. This is just like any other time.

Katie is my suitemate and I can’t express how thankful I am for her and Brittany and also for Tim Neve. We were all mad at each other, and still are in some ways but these amazing friends of mine put all of that aside to take care of me while I’ve been sick, which is I know not an easy task. Especially when they themselves have been sick.

Yep. Brittany, Katie, and I have all been sick. Needless to say over the last few days there has been a lot of Grey’s Anatomy, chicken noodle soup, and Gatorade. Oh, and pizza…not sure how that last one fits in but hey, I’m on medication. I can be crazy.

So, there have been three sickly girls all in one dorm room for the last few days and it has been rather exciting. Katie was nauseated. So, being the “ttown mom” to her I made she she had something to eat because I knew we had not been eating well. Sure enough, after a burger from Five Guys she was feeling better. Her iron was low.

Mine, however, was not that simple. I woke up Tuesday with a sore throat, sniffles and just not feeling well at all. This was strange considering when I went to bed Monday night I felt fine besides a little scratchy throat which I blamed on the copious amount of screaming I did at the Basketball game the previous night. So all throughout Tuesday I felt bad. Knew I had a low grade fever but went to work anyway. Had more than a low grade fever and Katie doped me up on Robatusen and Zycam (not a pleasant experience let me tell you). Wednesday, Katie caught onto the fact that I had fever and every few hours would come in and check it and then wake me up to give me medicine. Went to the doctor thursday night for them to tell me I had an upper respiratory infection.

This is where it gets interesting.

Katie took me to the doctor. I was going to be stubborn and take myself but after walking down the hallway and almost falling down from being dizzy I decided to let my pride go and allow her to take me.

Bad idea.

We got looks. The weird looks. The looks that ask, without every saying a word, “Are they together?”

I guess it just shows how the world has changed. I miss the days when I could take a baby in a doctor’s office and not automatically be the mother. I miss the days when I could walk into WalMart with my baby brother and Dad and not get weird looks. I miss the days of being able to walk into a doctor’s office with my suitemate and not have weird looks thrown at me.

I miss the days when obviously, a young girl carrying in a baby meant it was her baby brother. I miss the days when, for the most part, people married people their own age. I miss the days when two friends that were of the same sex could be friends without automatically being homosexual.

I miss the days when people were not so quick to judge.

I am headed to Birmingham for the weekend. If you are in the area, make sure and check out MOMS Market that will take place November 21st from 1-5pm (that’s Sunday).

There will be LOTS of super cute stuff!

-Cameon

That Person In The Mirror

2010-11-18T02:30:00.001-06:00

Someone told me recently, that when they looked in the mirror they just didn’t like what they saw. As always, the person I was talking to made perfect sense to me because I felt the exact same way.

Part of college and this part of my life is finding out who I am. At one point, I thought I was sure about everything. I had this life plan all figured out. By my Senior year of college I would be engaged and me and this fabulously attractive man that I met while Studying Abroad would be set to marry soon after I graduated. We would wait to have kids so that I could be settled in my career as an educator and so that him and I could have to just enjoy each other as a couple and then after that allotted “time together” had passed, we would have a family. From there, are a lot of thoughts about tailgating every weekend with the friends I made in college and that I had kept over the years from various things.

A lot of times when playing those games of “Who will?” I always end up being the “Who will have the career, husband, and eight kids” person. That’s fine. Quite honestly, I’ve always seen myself as that PTA mom that goes to her kid’s soccer games (or coaches them) after getting off from a long day at work and then going home and getting in bed with my husband.

I have to find me first though.

Lately, there has been a lot going on that I really couldn’t explain if I tried. I know this though, I look in the mirror and don’t like the person that is looking back at me.

A once “love life” girl has become so invested in school and work and everything else that I have forgotten what used to be the most important part of my life: living it.

I don’t like how I have treated friends recently. I don’t like how I have treated family recently. Everything else came before them and I was never like that. Used to, my family and friends came first.

So, I am going to be doing a lot of soul searching. I am rather scared of what I might find honestly. Reprioritizing is what we will call it I guess. Reevaluating. Whatever you would like the word to be.

(I Corinthians 10:13) 13 “No temptation has taken you except what is common to man. God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted above what you are able, but will with the temptation also make the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”

I don’t normally do this, but I would greatly appreciate everyone’s prayers for I am realizing I am not as strong as I thought I was. Nor am I as concrete in who I thought I was.

I guess I am coming to realize that I am 19 years old, and while I am mature in a lot of ways, I am not in this.

My Challenge:

1) Take a look at yourself today and ask yourself if you are really happy with what you see. If not, make a plan to change it and reevaluate the things in your life that have caused you to be someone that you no longer wish to be.

Revelations

2010-11-15T00:04:00.001-06:00

As you can see, it is going to be a busy week. Also, I can’t write in a straight line when I don’t have lined paper (apparently).

I know, I know. I haven’t been blogging every day. My bad, things just got crazy there for a little while.

Quite honestly, I don’t have that much to write about but felt like I should. I take that back, I have SO MUCH I could write about but can’t write about any of it. Maybe that makes sense to some, and maybe it doesn’t. Either way, this will be short.

As many of you know, the University of Alabama was my place. UA was my place to escape from life. It was my place to go when everything else felt like it was crashing down.

UA is now the place I want to leave because of everything.

Crazy huh?

I’m not saying that I am leaving UA. It’s just ironic that last year at this time I couldn’t wait to get away from home and be down here and in fact spent most of the time begging my dad to let me come down to a football, basketball, or baseball game. Even a tennis match would have been reason enough to get me down here honestly.

I could not wait to graduate high school and leave home (no offense to my family) and experience new things. I had all these ideas of what college life would be like and most have them have not been the case honestly.

It could be me. I think most people were worried that I would get down to UA and get into parties or whatever else. Haven’t been to one party while down here. I think a lot of people thought I would get down here and find some guy that really made me happy (me included) and that hasn’t happened.

There were a lot of ideals and expectations that simply haven’t been true.

It’s ironic because this time last year, I was leaving home to come down to UA to escape. Now, I go home from UA to escape.

I realized tonight while cleaning my dorm room and putting up laundry that I had been putting off how much Alabama stuff that I had in my life/dorm/wardrobe. It’s really quite insane.

Yeah, and that doesn’t even cover my clothes, which is even more insane.

*shakes head* This might have gotten a little out of hand.

I say a lot of times that music can describe what I’m feeling better than words can. Below, is a song.

The song that says the words I didn’t have.

My Challenge:

1) Be thankful for the place you are now. Believe your parents and grandparents when they say that you will miss the life you have now. As with most things, they are right.

I will post more throughout the week. However, right now I am getting some sleep (hopefully).

Good night to all (because now I am santa evidently),

-Cameon

The Process

2010-11-04T23:45:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I sent a message after a few days of silence that followed someone taking my head off basically saying if they were trying to cut ties and I wouldn’t let them to let me know.

I haven’t gotten a response back.

So now, begins the process. You know the process I’m talking about. It’s the normal break up process for a lot of people. Mine, however is a little different than most granted.

1) Get mad and come up with a million reasons to be mad and hate him forever. (This lasts about a week)

2) Realize how much I cared and then let the “tough” exterior I love to pose break and end up crying. (This lasts about a day).

3) Get up, put my big girl panties on, get dressed and move on.

Be reminded of him when I come across something on the internet that reminds me of something we did.
Hear our song on the radio.
See a movie we loved to watch/quote come on the tv.
Have people talk about him like they are his best friend and then ask how we are and have to explain that we are indeed done.
Run into him and have some awkward conversation and realize that maybe it was for the best.

Run into him and have this great conversation that just reminds me of how everything always seemed to fall into place.
Remind myself that he is toxic and not good for me.
Go through steps 1-3 again.

4) Get back to dating. Seriously dating, not “I hope he walks in while I’m with this super cute guy that doesn’t know how to spell his own name” dating.

5) Eventually, let someone else in and hope they are different.

6) Get let down…again…

I know one day there will be a different step 6 and one day there will be steps involving planning a wedding and having children and yada yada yada. However, for now and for comedic relief there are just six steps. Six steps to heartbreak. Six steps to recover.

And to think: There wasn’t even any drugs involved.

Gratitude

Instead of listing five things I am grateful for today, I am just going to list one thing today because it really encompasses everything.

I am thankful for being able to live and love and make mistakes. I am thankful that I am able to learn from these mistakes (hopefully) and move on and focus on my schoolwork and what needs to get done.

Tidbits

I honestly can’t narrow down the good deeds over the past few days.

Today is a weird post, and I apologize but it is what I needed to write about. I hope tomorrow or the next day there are more interesting things for you to read about.

My Challenge:

Sometimes throwing those love notes away is hard. Sometimes deleting those emails is hard. Sometimes deleting those Facebook messages is insanely difficult. The worst part? Deleting them from your phone. Today, if you have anything like that from an ex that doesn’t have true sentimental value, throw it away. Delete it. Get rid of it. You are better than him. Otherwise, you would be with him. Plain and simple.

Uplifting By Post-Its

2010-11-04T01:09:00.001-05:00

I apparently am one of those people that would rather hold everything in than tell anyone. I am that person people come to when they have a problem to talk to and discuss their problems with. I am that person people call at 1am because they just need someone to talk to. I am that person for a lot of people.

I also don’t like to appear as if anything is wrong. Just not my cup of tea quite honestly. I would a lot rather pretend everything is fine and just go on about my business.

However, eventually after holding everything inside for a while you break and crumble to the ground.

I crumbled, and I crumbled badly.

My roommates were clearly worried about me, and told me before work I needed to be me again. They said I was the one that held things together in our room. I was the one that was always smiling. I was always the one making things happy. I was “the mom.” I was smiling, and now I was in tears and they didn’t know what to do.

Quite honestly, I wasn’t sure what to do either. Still not really, but tonight when I got home from work I found this on my wall:

The message is “Ur beautiful” and each post it has something else on it that these two love/appreciate about me.

To be clear this says my “Mom” like qualities and not man Lol.

There were a lot more, but this will probably already take a long time to load so I will cut it short. I cannot thank these girls enough. They got a smile back on my face, at least for a little while. It’s funny that for three girls that didn’t think they were going to get along, we are now so close.

Gratitude

1) Katie Brantley- This girl…cracks me up and is always there for me. She also isn’t afraid to kick my butt (even though she is barely 100 pounds) and keep me in my place.

2) Brittany Day- This girl cracks me up and is loads of fun to be around. This is my actual roommate and I have lost count of the number of late night conversations we have had about various subjects.

3) My parents- Whether they know it or not the morals they have instilled in me are ever present in mind reminding me what is right and what is wrong. Granted, sometimes louder than other times.

4) My grandparents- They too, have shown me the difference between right and wrong and constantly are leading by example (not that my parents aren’t).

5) Life. Being here. Being alive. Getting the chance to make mistakes and learn from them and loving every minute of it.

Tidbits

I think the good deeds were obviously presented earlier.

My Challenge:

Today, dance in the rain, twirl in the sun…something. Take a minute and just enjoy life. Turn off your phone, turn off your computer, and do something you want to do. Then, tell someone else to do the same…or tell them about this blog.

I hope everyone has an incredible day today.

-Cameon

A Dozen Roses

2010-11-02T23:40:00.001-05:00

Love…and relationships are a lot like roses.

I can’t take credit for this analogy because I was not the one who came up with it but to understand what I’m talking about please read the conversation below (It was actually in person, but obviously I did not record it at the time).

Me: Well what do you think is wrong in your relationship?

Him: What’s your favorite flower?

Me: What? What are you talking about?

Him: Just answer the question and stop being stubborn.

Me: Roses. Something about them. I think it’s the fact that you can show so many things with one flower: Passion, Love, Friendship, Beauty…it’s just all there.

Him: That flower being your favorite doesn’t surprise me at all. Ok, so imagine your husband knew how much you loved flowers and passed by a flower shop every night on his way home and never stopped. Or worse yet he stopped and then when he came in just threw them on a counter?

Me: I’m so sorry.

Him: Neither of those are my situations. What if he stopped everyday to get you a dozen roses or you stopped to get him his favorite coffee ever day or frequently…always going the extra mile and never got anything back

When I started thinking about what I wanted to write earlier in the day I knew exactly what I was going to write about. It was going to be inspirational. It was going to make people laugh.

Then, something happened and I realized inspiration was what I needed and this was possibly the best way to get it.

I have been giving a dozen roses for a long time and getting very little, if anything back. Looking back, it was probably my fault from the beginning but quite honestly it doesn’t take the hurt away.

I think there comes a point when you realize that one person isn’t in a relationship as much as you are and slowly but surely you either try to fix it or it all goes downhill.

Then there comes that point when you realize you are doing everything you can to keep things going how they were, and the other person isn’t interested in that at all and is trying to let go.

I asked someone today how you could hate someone and love someone so much at the same time.

Today, I am promising myself that I will not settle for anything less than a dozen roses in return…although my hope is that I meet that someone that brings home two dozen roses instead.

Gratitude:

1) I made Avanti!

2) My roommate also made Avanti!

3) I am so thankful for all of the amazing friends I have and the amazing support system in my life.

4) Another order for Getting Social today.

5) Christi Mathers: I know I already mentioned friends but this girl makes my day better on the darkest of days. I’m so excited she got accepted to Alabama and hope that she’ll end up going here!

Me and Christi ^^

Tidbits:

1) I had a good friend of mine find out some bad information regarding her husband. She spent the night with me last night. I slept on the floor.

2) I made someone laugh today that needed to.

3) Someone helped me when I needed it.

My Challenge: Today’s challenge has just one part and it can’t be done directly through one action in particular although I will offer some suggestions. With that being said, the challenge is to love with everything you have.

If you feel like the relationship you are in is headed south, talk to the other person before it is too late.

Go that extra mile. Stop by and get them their favorite drink from Starbucks (mine is Pumpkin Spice Frappicuno and I’ll be at work from 3-9 tomorrow lol). Stop by and get that bouquet of flowers. Turn off the tv and give them some lovin’.

Make them feel like they are everything in the world to you, before you are forced to live in a world without them.

-Cameon

Inspiration & A Little Insecurity

2010-11-01T22:33:00.001-05:00

For those that are also my Facebook friends, you have most likely seen posts lately about my applying to be an Avanti at the University Of Alabama. I got the email today that I was to come to room 205 in the Student Services Building to pick up my letter confirming whether or not I would be selected as an Avanti member for the year 2011. We can be there beginning at 8am. I will be there at probably 7:55. I also probably will not sleep tonight.

My roommate laughed when I told her I was so nervous/anxious and said, “You always do that. You get keyed up about everything. Everything is all or nothing.”

I got to thinking about what she said and as much as I hate to admit it, she made a valid point.

Ironically, this roommate is someone I was really worried about rooming with before the year began. Since Facebook is the ultimate creeper method these days, you can bet when I found out who my roommate was I went and looked her butt up on Facebook. Definitely super creeped this girl. I went through her photos, looked to see what her friends said about her. This was serious.

Fun Fact: Brittany was an Auburn fan. Problem 1. I am a die hard Alabama fan. (No seriously, you don’t understand).

Fun Fact: She seemed to be the “preppy” girl that I didn’t really get along with in school ever. Mainly because I was always made fun of them. Basically, I equated her with the movie Mean Girls.

Fun Fact: She has become one of my best friends.

^^^Evidence of friendship.

I’ve come to realize that life rarely happens as you would expect it. We meet people everyday and have no idea the impact we have made on them. Sometimes, doing the simplest of things can get you a life long friend.

I remember when making friends was as easy as swinging together on the swing set and then after asking the other person, “Hey, do you want to be my friend?” Bam! A friendship is made (spit in hand/pink promise optional).

There was no “backstabbing.” There was no “two faced.” A friend was a friend. That was that.

As we get older, and busy in our everyday lives sometimes our friends, and family as well, are taken advantage of. We assume that because they are such a great friend we can treat them like crap and it’s ok because they’ll be there when we need them. We go days or weeks without calling or even emailing them and then all of a sudden call and want them to drop everything.

(Be honest, you are thinking about someone right now you’ve done this to).

We’ve all done it. We’re all as guilty as the Florida QB that sent that death threat to his girlfriend.

It’s not too late though.

Gratitude

1) I got to take a really nice drive this morning to Tuscaloosa. It was a little chilly, but with my cheek warmers (otherwise knows as seat warmers) it was just about right. Add music to it, and this Bama Chick was ready to go.

2) Brittany and Katie. They gave me some awesome birthday presents even though they didn’t have to. :)

3) More people are starting to read my writing, which is awesome but slightly nerve racking at the same time.

4) Several people today got messages saying they were beautiful. I was one of them and appreciate all the sweet comments.

5) I am also pretty pumped about writing an Alabama Basketball article before the scrimmage tomorrow.

Tidbits

1) I saw several people post statuses about their favorite attribute. I can’t wait to see what the next few days hold.

2) I got to tell many people today that they were beautiful…and why. I found it to be an amazing experience.

3) Someone helped me from my car today. It was very nice of them.

My Challenge: Again, there are three parts to today’s challenge (or tomorrow’s rather)

1) Today, call or text a friend you haven’t talked to in a while. See if they want to get lunch, go see a movie, or just catch up on the phone. Apologize for being so busy. Then, do better. We all get busy, and that is no excuse to forget friends and family.

2) Let your friends know you care. Let them know how much they mean to you. Let them know you would be lost without them.

3) Post your Day 2 favorite attribute. Confused? Click here.

I hope everyone has a tremendous day! :)

-The Bama Chick

The Glitz, The Glam, and The Fashion

2010-11-01T00:20:00.001-05:00

Everyone ready for another Fun Fact game?

Fun Fact: If you type in “glitz” there are more than 7 million results that pop up.

Fun Fact: Included in this result is the definition of “glitz” which is; extravagant showiness. The synonyms are: flamboyance, flash, flashiness, garishness, gaudiness, ostentation, ostentatiousness, pretentiousness, showiness, swank. The antonymns are: austerity, plainness, severity.

Fun Fact: If you type in Toddlers In Tiaras into Google images 32,500 results pop up. One of which is this image I found to be incredibly alarming.

Fun Fact: If you type in “online pageant” into Facebook as a search option you get over 500 results (which is when Facebook stops).

Fun Fact: If you click onto any of those 500 (not including the people that have decided to make their pageant a person and not a page), there are thousands (yes thousands) of pictures that pop up.

Fun Fact: I’m about to go on a rant, so if you aren’t interested please leave now. I am not one to mince words with any issue and certainly not an issue like this one.

I absolutely hate pageants. Don’t get me wrong, some of them are great in that they offer scholarships and do good deeds and what not, but what do you have to be in order to get these things?

In order to get the scholarship or the crown or whatever the prize might be you have to look good in a swimsuit, have the best smile, be the most beautiful, be the most full of crap, and be the best at making people believe you are someone that you simply are not.

So you are fake to get a reward.

Toddlers in Tiaras teaches little girls this at a very young age. You have to be all glammed up to be pretty. You have to have the fanciest dress. You have to have the most money. You have to have the perfect walk, talk, and dance. You have to be the complete package to win.

Operation Beautiful is something I talk a lot about, partly because it is such a great organization and a great idea. The concept is simple: Leave a post-it or any kind of note in a random place with “You Are Beautiful” or another beauty, self-respecting message on it with operationbeautiful.com at the bottom of it (although the last part is optional).

When you go to her site (and I encourage you to do so) there are countless numbers of post-its that have been posted throughout the world. There are countless stories about young girls and women that have struggled with self image all throughout their life and are only now learning that they are beautiful just the way they are.

As someone that struggled with their appearance (and still does) at times, the idea for this site is one I would much rather promote than something like Toddlers In Tiaras.

However, you don’t see Operation Beautiful with their own tv show. You don’t see Operation Beautiful and things like it in the news most of the time. The primped up, glammed up, made up Barbie dolls are the ones that are getting the shows on TLC and the news time. It’s ridiculous.

Take away the fact that you are telling your daughter (and sons in some cases) that you have to be one way to be beautiful or you’re not. That fun fact about all the pageants on Facebook…think about it!

MILLIONS OF PICTURES OF YOUNG BOYS AND GIRLS FOR THE WORLD TO SEE!!

TONS OF PEOPLE JUDGING YOU AND YOUR KID(S) ON WHETHER THEY ARE BEAUTIFUL OR NOT!

Lots of people will tell me there is nothing wrong with it. It’s just fun. Just a game. It’s not a game when you have 5 year olds with eating disorders. It’s not a game when you have 7 and 8 year olds putting on make up because they think it is the only way they can be beautiful.

It’s not a game. It’s an idea you are implanting into your little girl’s mind about what beauty is.

As someone that dealt with bullying all throughout school because I was not the prettiest, most popular kid in school…there is a pressure to be a certain way. Only recently have I learned to love myself; smile lines, chubby cheeks, and all.

Beauty comes in all different shapes, sizes, facial structures, hair colors, complexions, and colors. Some of the most beautiful people I know are not the thinnest. They are not, by definition, the prettiest. They have stretch marks from where they gave birth. They have a burn on their arm from where they were trying to save their brother during a house fire. They have dealt with bad acne all of their life. Their family didn’t have money to get their overbite fixed. They don’t have the designer jeans to make their butt look fabulous.

They are ordinary, everyday, run of the mill people. They are truly beautiful and they know it. They don’t have to have a panel of judges to tell them that. They don’t have to put on 10 pounds of makeup that was probably tested on animals to feel that way when they look in the mirror.

Childhood and adolescent obesity is at an all time high.

Eating disorders at a young age can cause mental disorders at an elderly age.

PLEASE think before you enter your sons or daughters in these pageants. Especially the online ones. That is just asking for some child pervert to jack off to their picture that they found simply by becoming a “fan.”Yeah, they are a fan alright.

Gratitide

1) I got to talk to my best friend Christi tonight for a little while. I hadn’t realized how much I had missed her until this conversation. Sometimes, talking to someone that isn’t afraid to put you in your place is the best thing.

2) Christi got into Alabama! I am SO EXCITED for her!

3) I had an amazing birthday today. Filled with lots of friends, family, and cake eating. Yum!

4) I have had several people contact me about Getting Social designs which is exciting.

5) There is an Alabama Basketball scrimmage Tuesday night at 7pm! BE THERE!

Tidbits

1) I hope by posting these I am doing good for someone, somewhere…if only for myself.

2) My friend did a good deed in challenging me to do this. He seemed to realize this is exactly what I needed to do. I think he was right.

3) I am going to post LOTS of post it notes tomorrow.

My Challenge: Today’s challenge actually has two parts:

1) Everyday this week, post your favorite attribute as your Facebook status and tell your friends to do the same. Even better, direct them to this blog and then tell them to do the same.

Example: Something I love about myself is…

Do this for seven days with each day being a different thing.

2) Tell 5 people today, in some way, shape, or form that they are beautiful. It can be someone random if you are brave. I think I might actually walk up to someone in the grocery store that probably has kids and has probably had a long day and tell them this.

Leave a text, FB wall post, FB message, call them, leave a sticky note, write it on their car window with window paint, whatever.

Ready….go!

Also, I enjoy reading feedback and seeing these challenges happen. So, if you do them and post about them please link your blog. Also, pictures are always welcome and you can email them to me if needed.

What Do You Want…

2010-10-30T23:05:00.000-05:00

Over the last few days I’ve started talking to this person again. It’s that person that I said I would never talk to again. It’s that person that I said would never be in my life again. I had been let down once, and they were not going to have the chance to do it again.

Now we’re talking again.

Sometimes, I feel like I have no choice in this matter. It’s almost like I am just stuck in this situation that I can’t get out of. Then I think, you could get out you just really don’t want to.

I’m just waiting for things to go back to the way they were before…I’m already preparing myself for them to let me down again. Only this next time, it might not be so much fun I have a feeling.

It’s always easy to play like it didn’t hurt. Staying busy so you don’t have to think about it is a way to deal with it. Then you realize, that you are probably wearing your batteries down trying to keep them from entering your mind. What’s worse is when most of the things you do remind you of them.

There is supposed to be a reason for everything. I’ve always believed that. I just wish I knew what their purpose in my life was. I’m not one to regret things, but there are days when I wonder how much easier things would have been had I just not been me.

Gratitude:

1) Another GORGEOUS day of weather!

2) I picked up something I had ordered from Sew Adorable. She threw in a few extra things for helping me with her Facebook page.

3) I met several interested moms at the VES Fall Festival today.

4) I got to sit down and watch a lot of College Football…Missouri and Michigan State lost. Hopefully that means Alabama will move up in the polls.

5) All of my amazing friends and family. I am reminded everyday of what an amazing support system I have.

My Challenge: Delete those conversations you’ve been keeping. Delete their number. Don’t let them control your life, because you control your own happiness.

(Have I mentioned I’m doing these challenges as well?

Everybody Goes To “Milo’s”…

2010-10-30T02:18:00.001-05:00

(OK, good thing there is no time limit on this: October 29, 2010)

I really don’t like those people that you can’t stay mad at. They give you reason time and time again to be mad at them…but you just can’t seem to no matter how hard you try. It’s just annoying honestly.

You are all set and ready to be mad at someone for the rest of your life and then you get a text from them, or a call, or worse you seem them and suddenly everything is better. You just aren’t mad anymore.

It is the worst and best feeling in the world.

That’s what I came across last night. Which should have probably gone in last night’s post but I didn’t really think about it until today…when the regret of not being able to hate this person really hit. Ugh.

Today was a good day spent with MaMa, Megan, and Michael just hanging around the house. Michael did not however take a nap. Which was not so much fun quite honestly. He’s getting to that stage where he is fighting it…hard. Poor guy.

However, today I was questioned by a manager at Milo’s. Went there to get lunch only to come home and realize that they left my cheeseburger and fries out. Seeing as how I was incredibly hungry, I was a little mad but having also worked fast food I know mistakes happen. So I called Milo’s hoping to get someone saying, “I’m so sorry about that ma’am. We’ll have it ready when you get here.”

I guess I was spoiled at Hamburger Heaven, because that is what I would have done.

I was questioned. I was mad. Actually, me saying I was mad is a drastic understatement. I was livid. Never in my life have I been questioned about a cheeseburger and fries being left out of my order.

Needless to say, I will never go back to Milo’s.

Gratitude

1) It’s starting to feel like FALL!!! WOOHOO!!

2) Michael genuinely laughed at me today. That little chuckle could make the world’s problems go away.

3) I actually slept last night which is not something I normally get to do.

4) Michael having a little temper. It just shows how well he will fit into this family. Hehe.

5) Megan giving me that “Why are you my sister look?” Sounds crazy…but I’ve missed that look at college.

Deeds

1) I went to go get my family lunch today and took Michael with me to give MaMa a break.

2) I went and picked my sister up from her boyfriend’s house (again taking Michael with me). Sounds weird…going to pick her up was something I used to not really like doing. I miss it now.

3) I participated in another giveaway tonight for The Periwinkle Piggy on Facebook.

My Challenge: Say “hello” to someone random today and ask them how their day has been. Then, really listen. You’ll be amazed at what people take from it.

I hope everyone has a splendiferous weekend! Please be safe if you are traveling or participating in Halloween festivities.

-Cameon

Busy…and loving it

2010-10-29T02:10:00.001-05:00

(Let the records show I did not skip yesterday, this is for October 28, 2010)

I am one of those people that likes to stay busy. Call it not liking to sit still. Call it not being able to sit still. Call it whatever, but I just don’t like sitting still. In fact, it takes a lot for me to sit down and focus on something entirely. Everything gets done…and well but it really takes me concentrating, and even then I usually have to have four other things going to actually get something done.

This drives my mother crazy, and she noticed it today. My “agenda” is that of a miracle. I don’t even know how I do what I do most of the time. Somehow though, it always gets done.

This weekend however, I am taking a break from work, school, and Getting Social (which is also work). This weekend I am spending time with my family and friends that have gone somewhat neglected while I’ve been at UA trying to take it over. I adore my family, and I really don’t tell them that enough and probably don’t let them know it, which is something I intend to change.

This weekend I plan to turn off the cellphone for the most part, let the email and Facebook go, and enjoy spending time with my family. No Bama Fever, no UA, and no Getting Social. Just me, my family, and my friends.

Tonight I got to spend time with some very good friends of mine that I haven’t seen since I graduated in May. It was eye opening, because most of them said the same thing, “We just all knew how busy you would get and the awesome things you would accomplish.” While it was a compliment, I also felt terrible.

So, today is a new day…

Gratitide

1) I got to leave Alabama at a decent time.

2) THE WEATHER IS FINALLY GETTING COLDER!!

3) I had the chance to talk with a lot of good friends I’ve missed.

4) I got to see the Shades Valley Band perform.

5) I got to talk with my Daddy tonight just me and him…and it was nice. I wish we did that more often.

Deeds

1) I participated in a giveaway for Getting Social. I gave away a free FB make over and then 3 $10 gift cards.

2) A guy helped me to my car today since I had a lot of different things I was carrying.

3) I left a random message on my roommate’s FB wall today wishing her a safe trip home and telling her how much I appreciate her.

My challenge to you (something new I’m adding): Call someone you haven’t talked to in a while and catch up. Let them know you care and that you are there. Apologize for being so busy. Finally, set up a lunch date.

Now, blog about it and post a comment below to tell me about it. :)

A New Challange

2010-10-27T20:02:00.000-05:00

Fun Fact: I hate to be challanged.

Fun Fact: He made the mistake of challanging me.

Fun Fact: I secretly like to be challanged.

For those that know me, those fun facts were not surprising because you already knew all of that. Furthermore, you know how I am. I'm a stubborn person. I hate being wrong and most of the time, unless it is morally unsound, I cannot say "NO" to anyone. I am a people pleaser in terms of trying to help whenever I can.

Fun Fact: That has nothing to do with this. Just more information about me that you probably don't care about.

He challenged me that I won't be able to post a blog entry everyday for 365 days and in that blog post mention 5 things I am grateful for. With this, I also have to mention 3 good deeds I either saw or was a part of during that day.

Apparently, this is the way that many people keep up with me so I will be updating it everyday with events. For those that are subscribed, I am sorry but get used to seeing my blog in your feed as new posts. It's not spam. I promise.

So, today's update: I had my one on one interview for Avanti today and it was rather nerveracking. I am so used to being able to walk into an interview and already having a reputation for being someone dependable and someone you want on your team. Here at UA, I don't have that reputation yet.

This was the third part of the process (I swear, everything at UA is a process). The first part was the actual application. Wait. I then received an email to come in for a group interview. More waiting. I then received an email about the one on one interview. I went to this said interview today. Guess what I'm doing next? Yep. More waiting. I will receive an email November 2nd with instructions to come to Student Services and get an envelope which will contain a letter of whether I made something I really want or not.

It's a strange feeling worrying if I made something or not and is definitely not one that I am used to.

In other news, I signed up for my spring classes today. I can not believe that my fall semester of college has flown by this fast! Why didn't high school go by this fast is what I'd like to know?! In my process of signing up for classes, I signed up for Italian. Yep. Random I know, but I just wanted to take one fun class. I might end up dropping it though depending on how the rest of my schedule plans out.

I am still doing the Getting Social thing and it has rather taken off faster than I thought it would. I might have bit off more than I can chew, but am thoroughy enjoying it. For that reason, I might take a web design class just for the heck of it and learn to use photoshop and more tools such as that for fun.

There is still no guy at UA. I have also come to the conclusion that I might be a little naive in my thinking when it comes to marriage and how it is. I guess I have this image in my head of how things are...but unfortunately am learning that most of the time the ideals I have don't end up happening.

Enough of that. I will close this with the 5 things I am grateful for today ( I will label this section "Gratitude" on every post and the 3 deeds or interesting things that happened during the day.

Gratitude:

I made it through the crazy weather last night and am here typing this tonight.
Katie being able to pull the plastic out of my foot that I somehow stepped on. Seeing as how I would be spending my day in heels, I was incredibly grateful for this.
Making it to the one on one interview for Avanti.
My amazing Daddy. He turned another year older today.
Brittany and her helping me pick out an outfit for tomorrow. Could be interesting.

Tidbits:

I met a guy today while waiting for my interview to begin and he was really nice. He just striked up a conversation and got all of my information. It was great, because I needed to calm down before my interview.
I went and got Katie two Sierra Mists this afternoon because she wan't feeling well. I'm pretty sure that counts as a good deed.
The rain has finally stopped, but some guy did offer to share an umbrella with me earlier. Thank you random person.

That is all for today's update.

Fun Fact: I will be home this weekend starting tomorrow afternoon/night and will be home until Sunday night.

You Can't Teach An Old Dog New Tricks

2010-10-21T04:18:00.000-05:00

I feel like it has been forever since I last wrote on this blog. Actually, I feel like it has been a life time since I have had the chance to write anything that I actually want to write.

I've been writing...oh boy, have I been writing. However, I haven't been writing about the things I love to write about. I've been writing for my Blount class (which is not as relaxed as you would assume it to be from the name) or for my English class. There have been no BleacherReport articles and in fact, there hasn't been that much in the way of sports period.

Even now, as I type this I should be typing a 6 page paper on Discourse On Method by Descartes, but I quit. I had to take a break from the things that I am required to write about and write about something I needed/wanted to write about.

So, here I am. It is 4:08am in the morning here in Sweet Home Alabama and I am typing on a blog. This is what I am choosing to write about. I am writing about not wanting to write about writing. Makes sense huh? Well truthfully, not much in my life makes sense right now.

Everything seems like it is all just happening and leaving me in the dust. Last week, I worked 30 hours. I met Nick Saban and got a picture with him which was pretty cool, but I honestly don't even remember what happened. On top of working 30 hours, I had an English paper due and I got the prompt for my Blount paper that would be due the following Thursday that same Thursday.

I've also been going through the process of applying to become an Avanti which sounds pretty easy but it much more gruesome than I thought. There are several parts to this interview process and that in itself kills me. I hate not knowing. It is the worst feeling. So each time a new part of the process comes up I sign up for a time, go for the interview, and then wait... I am at their mercy because quite frankly I am used to getting what I want. So, I sign up, go to interview, wait and then rinse and repeat. Hopefully I will know whether I will be a definite Avanti or not in the beginning of November. For my sanity I hope so anyway.

Getting Social Inc. is also something else I've ventured into. I'm basically creating Facebook business pages for businesses. Pretty cool actually and the money is pretty good but with everything else wouldn't you know it has nothing to do with education.

Nothing does.

I do not have a class that really has anything to do with my Education degree. I have yet to realize why I need to learn Calculus when I am an Elementary/Special Education major! Why are you not replacing that with something that I will actually use?! AH!

There are lots of things I would like to rant about like the Alabama loss to South Carolina and what I think is wrong with this team and also how if Cam Newton gets hurt Auburn is screwed, but there is just no time. Nope. None.

It is now 4:17am...and I guess now I should finish this paper that is due here in 7 hours. Maybe one of these days, I will get a chance to do a proper update...or even write an article. Oh how splendiferous that would be.

Operation Beautiful In Action

2010-09-18T14:07:00.001-05:00

Everyone struggles with their self image. Point blank. Men do. Women do. It’s just a part of life.

(I know my next rant was supposed to be about Greek Like, but I have not gotten that one completely ready, and I honestly felt this was more important and would also tie in together nicely with my whole point from the Greek Like article).

This Summer, I came across a site called Operation Beautiful. It was featured on the Dr. Oz show and immediately caught my interest. You can see more about it by clicking on the website link, but in summary it is all about making sure people (mainly women) know just how beautiful they are.

To do this, people leave little post it notes in random places (bathroom mirror, mirror in a dressing room, wherever) saying something like, “You are beautiful, just the way you are.”

I have posted a few of these notes myself but had never seen one in Alabama, until the other day.

Walking through the Ferguson Center at the University Of Alabama I happened to look up at the stairs and saw this:

Talk about making my day!

I quickly (actually, not so quickly and I did get some weird looks) took a picture of this and am sending it to the site so they know just how far this has gone.

To everyone I know, check out this site and do it if you so feel inclined. You never know when you might make someone’s day. :)

Roll Tide,

Chemistry Class: What They Didn't Tell Me

2010-09-17T02:20:00.000-05:00

In chemistry class, we learn that if you keep certain chemicals bottled up inside for a long enough time frame, they combust. Last night the chemicals inside of me called anger, sadness, stressed and stubbornness combusted.

I have come to a point where I have realized that I simply can’t fix everything. This is a somewhat sad/shocking realization to me since all throughout my life I have tried to fix things. I tried to fix my doll when it broke. I tried to fix my friends when they were sad. I tried to fix my family when I thought something was wrong.

All throughout my life, I have been the girl that people come to for help with various things. Random people will start talking to me about their marriage issues or the problems they are having with their kids or their jobs in WalMart while I am buying groceries. This is all fine. I guess I just have a friendly face. Hopefully, or at least I hope, they just need someone to listen, and I am glad to be that person for them.

However, there are other times when they need that someone to make them feel better and boost their self confidence which I am also pretty good at. I’m famous for helping friends through breakups and making them realize that they didn’t need them anyway. They were better than him and his three other girlfriends (or vice versa). These talks usually contain copious amounts of ice cream or their favorite dessert and smash talking whichever person it was, until they realize how much they really cared about them…and then we have the tears. Repeat process, and you have a normal ritual of break ups with Cameon.

Last night, I came to terms with the fact that I had been playing the “I don’t need him,” “I’m better than him,” “Why do I care anyway?” card…and that slowly it was wearing off. I’m usually pretty strong when it comes to breakups. Most of the time actually, I simply walk away with not much else to say. I guess it was everything put together this week, but I finally came to terms with the fact that I really did care about him, and I probably always will. Those walls I built and reinforced like my Daddy taught me were being torn down. Worse than that, I did need him and that scared me. I wasn’t better than him, because we were pretty equal. The worst part of it all though, was realizing that I not only cared, but I cared a lot. I truly miss(ed) him.

This is all different, because I’m not used to this feeling. I’ve realized that it is going to take time to get over this if I ever really want to have another shot at a somewhat decent relationship. It’s going to take going through the sad, so that I can get to the better. But, it’s part of life and I guess everyone goes through that first bad break up. I guess I had just avoided mine until now…a good bit after the fact (talk about procrastinating).

Along with the realization that I missed him, I also realized that I once had it all figured out. I thought I was ahead of the pact. When I went off to school this August, I proudly had an answer for people when they asked me what I was going to school for. I felt bad for the people that didn’t know and I couldn’t imagine what it must feel like to not know what you wanted to be when you grew up. I’ve always had a purpose and a way of doing things in my mind.

I’m not so smug now.

Teaching jobs are incredibly hard to come by in a school where you don’t risk your life everyday going into work. Even if you get that said teaching job, getting tenured is even harder. Not to mention, parents are so distraught about the public education school system, the number of kids homeschooling has millionupled (it’s a word, look it up).

I have tons of people tell me “You need to go into Journalism,” and for the longest time I thought they were crazy. Now, it seems like it could be a possibility. Journalism is an iffy field as well though, and my greatest fear in life is being picked last, or not being picked at all (Hence why I did not Rush).

I also have a friend that is going through some hard times. I realized last night, I have no idea how to help him. Most of the time, I have an answer. I can pull out my “Cameon charm” and have someone laughing in about thirty seconds and they forget (although it might be temporarily) that they were sad or unhappy about something. Not this time. I have tried everything I know to try. At the end of the day though, I’ve realized that I can’t fix everything.

He and I are so much alike that we are too nice to each other. We both say things to the other one I think, so that the other one doesn’t get mad because we both hate to fight. Because of this, he doesn’t really let me know what’s going on, and I don’t know how to help.

I’ve come to realize, that someone can only be helped if they really want to be helped. I can be a friend. I can be a shoulder. I can be support. Other than that, I can only do what they really want to be done to them.

Obviously, the last few days have been a little hard. However, I am determined that the good guy always wins. We may not get the headlines like the bad guys do, but people do notice. Hopefully.

This is what college is all about I think: Coming into who you are. I thought I had it all figured out…

Boy, was I wrong?

Next time: Get the pedestal polished; I’ll be talking about Greek Life.

Roll Tide,

The Bama Chick

Assignment #3 For CAT 200

2010-09-08T00:37:00.000-05:00

In my CAT 200 class (teaching class) we are learning about the different learning styles and ways that children learn. As a part of our assignment, we had to take a Cognitive Learning test and a Learning Style Test both of which I found pretty cool. The Cognitive I thought proved to be more about the way a person is while the Learning Styles test was more about the best ways for a person to learn, both of which are incredibly important when teaching a group of kids.

Below are the results of the Cognitive test that I took. Let me know how accurate this depicts me.

Extraverted sensing types are pragmatic and realistic with a zest for living life to the fullest by way of multiplying experiences. Always on the alert for what needs immediate attention or what might provide a bit of action, excitement or entertainment, they engage quickly with their environment. They seek and enjoy freedom, are good-natured, direct, and tolerant and are often the ones who provide levity.

They have a way with dealing with people on a very equal platform and are not easily star struck. Rank, celebrity and status mean little when they are face to face with another individual.

On the job, they appreciate having the right tools and are quite ingenious at finding ways to fix and repair things with dexterity. They love variety and are curious and adventurous, enjoying the unexpected. Their brand of extraversion is one of deeds rather than words. As long as things are moving along, they are happy. They like to keep things simple and immediate, going with the flow. They are helpful in very concrete ways, providing the correct tools or specific service the person requires. They often have an uncanny ability to respond appropriately in cases of emergencies, often having excellent reflexes. They act without thinking. They also tend to have natural mediating skills.

They are attuned to the environment and the myriad colours, textures, sounds, beauty and the sensuousness of it all.

They are quite graceful and agile while moving through their environment. They love having fun and if things are too quiet they may provide the entertainment or distraction. They learn by imitation and are keen observers. They teach through example. Their attention will always go towards whatever provides the keenest impression on their senses.

Raisin' Em Right--A Day Of Firsts

2010-09-05T16:26:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was one filled with many “firsts.”

As many did, I had my phone set up with a calendar telling me exactly how many days/hours/and minutes I had until Alabama Football started. At 12am on September 4, 2010, it went off, and I hopped out of bed screaming in excitement that the day had finally come.

Yesterday was the first day of the 2010 Alabama Football season. It was also the first time that Bryant-Denny would have the capacity to seat over 101,000 people.

I was also now a student at the University of Alabama, and not just a fan and this would be my first sporting event as such. I was a part of it now. Yea! Alabama! was not just a cheer that I sang, and it wasn’t just a fight song. It was the fight song to the University of Alabama where I was attending college.

Michael and my Mom joined me for Gameday which was also an incredible experience. This would be Michael’s first Alabama game (recently one year old) besides A-Day, and it was hilarious to see him respond to everything.

He actually watched the game and what was going on. Although, the moments when it had been quieter and then all of a sudden 100,000 people started yelling kind of scared of. Of course, him and I had been working on our Alabama cheers before I left for school, and he looked at me and grinned when people did cheers he knew as well. ßThis part made my day.

It was the first time of the 2010 season that I would tailgate, and I got to see Michael drink out of a juicebox for the first time, which made me feel incredibly old to be honest.

Yesterday was a gorgeous day to be outside, and especially for Alabama Football. It was a great day for a win, which the Tide accomplished easily over San Jose State (48-3 actually). It was also an incredible day to get to see my Mom and little brother Michael.

Definitely one of scrapbook perfect days (and yes, we did save the tickets).

I hope everyone has an incredible Labor Day weekend and stays safe. If you were at a College Football game yesterday, I hope your experience was all that you hoped for.

Roll Tide,

The Bama Chick

Dear Facebook, I Can't Reconnect With Him

2010-09-02T14:27:00.000-05:00

Dear Facebook,

You suggested I “reconnect” with him today. Apparently, you thought we hadn’t communicated in a while, and felt it was necessary for us to do so. Well, you were right.

You got me, I’ll tell you that much.

I had finally reached a point where he didn’t cross my mind each time I went to pick up my phone to see why it was blinking at me, hoping that it was saying, “HE TEXTED! HE TEXTED!” It was finally to that point where he wasn’t constantly crossing my mind. Those times that we shared, those nights we talked, all of the things that happened that we understood but no one else did. They were our little secrets that no one else knew. With school starting, and trying to move on I had finally reached a point where honestly, I had other things going on…so it wasn’t as bad. I had other things to keep me preoccupied, and I made it to where there was no down time for me to think about him.

I had it all figured it into a clever plan, until you came along and messed it up. Now, it feels like I am taking multiple steps back. It’s not your fault though.

You told me to reconnect with him and share my latest news on his wall. What you don’t know is that there is nothing I would love more than to reconnect with him and to share all of my latest news. I would love to tell him that I love my classes and being at UA. The school, the campus, the people…are everything I imagined and more. I would love to tell him about the crazy people at work that I somehow encounter there, and in life in general and share those stories with him...mainly so that I could hear that laugh of his and picture that adorable smile, even if I wasn’t there to actually see it.

I would love to just hear his voice.

Our last conversation and those messages that I couldn’t stand to erase are still there…haunting me; Ever patiently waiting for me to press the wrong button so that they can pop up on my screen telling me, “This is what was, but it’s not now.” His voicemails that should have been deleted quite a long time ago, are still on my phone…creeping up every now and then with the question “Would you like to delete these or save them in your archive?” I always press “9”, hoping to save something…

I found myself deleting the messages and the emails…because I went through that “out with the old and in with the new period,” but couldn’t erase all of them. I went through before starting classes and cleaned out my inbox. I was still left with 16,000 unread messages, but none of them were from him. His had all been read. He made the cut. I read his, before anything else. He was first…in everything.

Sometimes thinking about him makes me wonder if I’ll ever find someone like him again. Someone that can make me feel angry, upset, happy, and thankful all at the same time. Someone that can make me laugh when I need to stop crying, but that knows when I really need to just cry. Someone that isn’t afraid to set me straight in my ways, and have a discussion with me.

Then again, I thought I knew what I wanted. I thought it was him, but I’m starting to realize that maybe I just loved the idea. Who wouldn’t?

There is no chance to reconnect though Facebook, and I am sorry to tell you that because I know that is what you strive to do on your social networking site. You strive to reconnect people. However, we can’t be reconnected, as much as I wish we could be. It is just simply not in the cards.

He isn’t here anymore. He’s gone. We’re gone. There’s no reconnecting that. I wish things could have been different. I wish the things that I said weren’t the last things he heard me say. They were though, and there is no changing that.

I can’t reconnect with him, but there’s not a day that I didn’t wish for that chance. Just to have that chance to say, “Congratulations. I love you!” just so that he would know.

The Bama Chick

Objectifying Women: What Is Too Far?

2010-09-02T01:11:00.001-05:00

I had planned to make my first post from college about my new experiences and all the friends I have met. I had planned to talk about going to my first Alabama football game as a student, and not just a rabid fan (Well, not rabid…most of the time). I planned a lot of things. I did not plan on seeing a certain bulletin board about paintball as I was taking my roommate to the library tonight.

Upon just glancing at this bulletin board, the first thing I noticed was a flyer to join a paintball team other UA students. Intrigued, I took a closer look only to find more than I bargained for.

To paint a picture of this flyer, imagine a heavier girl standing next to a guy, paintball guns in hand just smiling at the camera, both covered in pink paint from head to toe. Now obviously, this could mean one of two things. 1) The girl kicked the guy’s butt and then he gave her a hug or 2) she kicked his butt and then promptly shot herself because she forgot her gun was loaded. EITHER WAY, they were both smiling people, apparently happy that paintball had made their average drivel lives a little better (Thank you advertising agencies).

On the other side of this flyer, is a smaller picture of a woman with a paintball gun. Makeup in place, hair in tact, without a spot of paint on her she was either 1) the #1 ranked paintballer in the world, 2) the spokeswoman for new makeup and hair products that were for heavy duty sweat situations or 3) has not actually been in a match yet. This girl was thinner than the aforementioned woman accompanied by her man, and admittedly more attractive. All of the above mentioned is not what caught my eye however.

No, what caught my eye was something that I’m sure my roommate wishes I had not seen because quite frankly I have been ranting about It from the time I saw it about an hour ago…until the time I am posting this which is almost a day later (you may send Tylenol/Advil to the P.O. Box mentioned later).

Under the picture of the woman by herself, one of the nifty RAs had taken it upon herself to write, “If you do not stop using images that objectify women, I will remove the whole sign. If you have any problems with this, you may take it up with me.” (We’ll leave the RAs name out for the moment).

(Crickets chirp, dogs bark, some woman screams in the distance)

WHAT?!

I would understand if this woman didn’t have any clothes on and was simply holding a paintball gun over a certain area with a container of paintballs covering two other areas, but this woman was fully clothed! Not only that, this comment was only under the picture of the more attractive woman that was by herself and not by the picture of the heavier woman accompanied by a man.

Who’s degrading women exactly?

You chose to comment on a picture of a woman with a paintball gun. She was not in a “sexy pose.” There wasn’t nudity (much to every guy in this dorms dismay). She was an older woman…with a paintball gun…and she was FULLY clothed (did I mention that?)

It seems to me that you have chosen to degrade women by your idea that it is not ok for a woman to look slightly attractive and be in a picture that has to do with a sport that guys are mainly interested in. It seems to me that you are so close minded with what women should look like in a picture that you are degrading women and what they can be.

Where is your comment on the picture of the heavier girl with the man?

“Oh, that one is OK because she’s not good looking and she’s with a man.” I can just picture this girl saying this now.

Degrading?

You are degrading women based on your ideal that women can’t be in a picture and be semi attractive with a “sport utility” without it being objectifying or degrading. Heaven forbid there not be a man in the picture, because there has to be a man involved for a female to do anything sports related.

Personally, I thought it was a welcome scene since most of the time, all we see is men in these kinds of ads. Maybe, the person that put the flyer up was trying to make it known that this was a league that welcomed both men and women (of all sizes and appearance criteria).

I sincerely hope this RA signs up for paintball so that I can shoot the crap out of her…even if she is on my team. Oh what joy…and I might just use pink paintballs to do it, and then take a picture by myself and proceed to post it on the Bulletin Board just to prove a point.

(I intend to write a formal letter to the person that commented on this picture, stating the above in a more formal, well written argument. I will post the word document later).

However, I am interested to hear your thoughts. Am I wrong in this? What qualifies as degrading or objectifying women in your opinion?

Roll Tide!

The Bama Chick

Assignment #1 For CAT 200 Class

2010-08-25T00:49:00.000-05:00

Cameon Shiflett

Phone: 205-914-9083 Email: cnshiflett@crimson.ua.edu

August 23, 2010

CAT 200- Dr. Timothy Lewis

Assignment 1

Children, and their ability and excitement to learn new things has always fascinated me. Throughout my younger years, I would spend countless hours playing “teacher” with my sister, pretending that I was the teacher and she was the student. We would have time for Math, English, Reading, and of course discipline when needed. As I “corrected” the problems that she got wrong and made an effort to teacher her how to do the problems correctly, I soon realized that everyone learns differently and has some require a different method than the status quo. My sister was actually the main reason that I went into Education.

As a student, I was blessed to have incredible teachers. I had teachers that were not afraid to be immersed in their jobs and were teachers for more than a reason than the fact that it was an easier degree to get than most. I had teachers that took the brightest of kids and took them a step further, challenging them to be the best they could be. Making them realize that their best might not be everyone else’s best. I had teachers that recognized my ability, and placed me in gifted classes which later turned into AP classes, that enriched my life more than I can say. I had teachers that proved to be my inspiration, for what I wanted to be in life and for the kind of person that I would become. My sister, however was not as fortunate.

My sister was dealt the misfortune of getting teachers that did not really care about their jobs. They did not care about what my sister learned or what she was able to do. They took her ability, and grouped it with everyone else’s. When they were there and didn’t have a substitute teaching the class, they would watch movies that had nothing to do with the lesson they were learning. My sister is incredibly intelligent, and works very hard to make the grades that she has received, but I can’t help but think that her, along with many other children have been handicapped because of teachers that look at their profession as a job and not as an opportunity to influence children’s lives.

In the 8^th grade, I was given the chance to work with a second grade class for my enrichment period, and also asked for the opportunity to work with the Special Education children in my school. Being able to sit with these kids, I was able to see how technology helps kids learn. From being able to work with second graders that were above their average class mates in things like multiplication tables, to watching the Special Education children working on things like typing and learning how to do other things on the computer, it made me realize that technology, whether we like it or not, has a huge impact on the kids in today’s schools.

Many teachers are not “up to date” on the technologies that are out there and instead of elected officials putting money into our schools and our educators, they are focused on other things , which in my opinion, prevents the kids in their classroom from achieving all that they can achieve. There are games and programs other than Facebook and Guitar Hero that are so beneficial to a child and everything that they can learn. The second grade class that I got to be a part of used Rosetta Stone which was helping them to learn another language. The Special Education class was using technology to teach those kids how to type, and to even do simple things like surf the internet to learn more about things that interested them such as cars or history. Technology is such a useful tool that teachers have, that should be utilized in furthering children’s minds.

Behind Every Graduate…

2010-06-26T00:37:00.001-05:00

There’s a saying, “Behind every good man stands a woman,” which I have come to agree with here lately. If you look at the really happy men (truly happy I mean, not “I just got action” happy) you will most of the time find an incredible woman right by his side probably also with a few kids and a Honda Pilot.

I’ve had several people email me and ask me when my next piece would be up because I’d taken a break from writing. Truthfully, there was just a lot going on that kept me away from the computer. With that being said, I’d like to introduce “Behind every Graduate, there is an amazing support system.”

For those of you who don’t know, I graduated in May (pictures to come later). I graduated with a lot of knowledge about World War I and AP Statistics. I graduated with the lessons that I learned over the years about finding out who I was. I graduated, with mostly the same friends and family that had been there for me throughout the previous 18 years of my life. And they were still right beside me as I went into this next chapter into my life.

I’m sure there are exceptions to this rule, just like there are exceptions to every rule, but it is my firm belief that a lot of successful graduates have made it to that point because of the incredible support system that they have been blessed with. There are those that have to do everything on their own, without that parental support or guidance that still come out on top, and to those people, I commend you for going against the norm.

The reason I am saying all this, is just to thank everyone in my life for the amazing support and guidance they have provided for me throughout the years. I’m a believer in that you have a purpose for meeting everyone that you meet in your life, whether you know it or not and I have truly been blessed with getting to meet and mingle with some of the best. I would not be who or where I am without your support and guidance throughout the years and I am truly grateful. I also know that as I head into this crazy and exciting journey that I am about to embark on, there will be more advice to give and a lot more lessons to learn. I’m not nervous though, because I know I always have the incredible people I’ve been blessed with in my life to support me.

Now, all that the mushy stuff has been said, below are some photos from the last few months. I hope everyone enjoys (especially the pictures of Michael as he is growing so fast!) I hope this message find everyone well and that you continue to do well.

Roll Tide,

The Bama Chick

A-Day 2010 (Michael’s First Alabama Game!)

As you can imagine, this was a pretty big deal. My mom and I packed up Michael and we headed to T-town to join over 90,000 of our closest friends to judge just what we thought of the Tide. Michael spent almost all of the day in his baby backpack on the front of me and joined in with the cheering and clapping when he knew he should. This little man is definitely already a little Bama fan which is incredibly exciting for his big sister Cameon.

Mother’s Day

For Mother’s Day, I decided that MaMa could probably use some pictures of all three of her children besides the ones that she had made for the Christmas cards which will explain the pictures below. We had our pictures done by Photography By Tonya. She is an amazing photographer with very reasonable rates and she gets some great shots. (You’ll see her name later).

Senior Picnic/Graduation

As stated above, I graduated May 27, 2010. The pictures below are from the Senior Picnic that the school provided for us which was a lot of fun. The pictures from Graduation are from the Pre-Graduation party my family threw for me and were taken by Photography By Tonya. Again, can’t stress what a great job she does. Also, I can’t thank everyone enough for all the thoughtful gifts. I am working on thank you notes, there were just SO MANY! I love you all so much!

Summer Fun

Since Graduation, I have spent a lot of time working, but there also have been some really fun times. I went to the SEC Championship with a good friend of mine and also got to attend the NCAA Regionals in Atlanta. There have also been a few concerts and odds and ends things which are represented by the pictures below.

Until next time, (which will be soon with any luck) Roll Tide!

Lifting Up Ellie

2010-06-19T01:07:00.002-05:00

As a recent "Tweeter", I came across a post from Lance Armstrong that I found interesting. He was asking for "Prayers for Ellie" and included a link to a little girl's twitter. After visiting Ellie's twitter, and following the link to her Caring Bridge site, this little girl had me wrapped around her finger, and her story.

I could tell you all about Ellie's battle but it is best described by the people that love her and have been around her through this time, because everyone's battle and experiences are different in this terrible disease. Her parent's have been told by the hospice people that their daughter has about a week left here on this earth. I'm including the link both to her twitter and website so that you may be touched by this little girl's story as I was.

Cancer is such a terrible disease and for anyone that has been through it, or been around people that have been sick with it, you know what a terrifying experience it is. From what this little girl's mom has said though, she has kept a high spirit, as most children do.

I've always said that we can learn so much from children, and this little girl proves to be no different. I hope you'll take a moment to let her impact your life as she did mine and so many others. I hope you'll take a moment, go to her website and read her guestbook and her mom's postings about her little girl. I'll also include a link to a song that singer/songwriter Dusty Hughes wrote for her that just shows how incredible this little girl must be.

After reading her story, keep her family and friends in your prayers and hug the ones you love. Life is short, and we never know how short it really is, until the ones we love are taken away from us. If you feel inclined, share her story with the people you know.

May God Bless,
Cameon

LINKS TO ELLIE:
Twitter: http://twitter.com/LiftUpEllie
CaringBridge: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/elliepotvin/journal
Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SUjB2uRVJIA

The Perfect Catch

2010-05-22T22:24:00.002-05:00

The Perfect Catch
It’s so serene at times.
So placid, yet comforting with that gentle breeze hitting you every now and then,
running through your hair.
So warm, as the sun beats down on you, lighting you up with fire inside that you know if you’re not careful, will burn you and then peel away.

Sometimes, you’re successful- getting exactly what you want.
Other times, you don’t get anything.
So even though you worked hard, tried everything you knew how to do,
Put your best game forward, and never gave up
The fish just weren’t biting.

So you fish that same spot,
Hoping that something will change.
Hoping that someday, your hard work will pay off,
And you will get that perfect catch.
Even just a nibble will do- Just something
To show it hasn’t all been for nothing.
Something to show that there’s at least something there.

There are trips where nothing goes right.
The rain hits, followed by thunder and lightning
And everything seems impossible.
Even on a sunny day after multiple trips,
You don’t catch anything,
wondering if “the perfect catch” is even out there.
You give up, and might even put your rod away for a while.
Never fear though, you will go back to fishing and one day,
Catch exactly what you’ve been looking for.

Even worse, you have it- just for it to be taken away.
It took almost nothing- the bite was almost instant.
The reel in was almost effortless, and by the tugging
You can tell that it’s something good,
Something big and thrilling.
That adrenaline that comes with the possibility
Of finally having it.
Its so close and then it lets loose, afraid of what will happen.
And this happens over and over again- it’s a tease.
A tease for what you could have and came so close to having,
But at the end of the day just weren’t good enough.

Then there are times when that hard work
And dedication pay off.
The amount of time to get there doesn’t matter.
The work it took is not even a present thought in your mind.
Seeing that, in your eyes, perfect catch is all that matters.
And yet, even though it would be easy to keep it, you put it back in the water,
Because you know that with time it will be even more beautiful
And enjoyable for someone else.
Gently letting it go, you imagine its friends and family welcoming
It back home to the life it had before,
Knowing you made the right decision.
Because sometimes loving something is letting it go.

On the even rarer occasion, you catch the perfect catch.
There’s not a doubt in your mind because everything feels right.
You realize that without the bad days, the teases, and the “almosts”
You wouldn’t have reached this moment.
The marveling and appreciation wouldn’t be the same.
You would never have experienced the perfect catch
That other people envy.
You now have that tale to share with your kids and grandkids
On summer night in the rocking chair on the porch about the perfect catch,
And all of the other “fisherman’s tales” you had to endure to finally how to get it.

Perfection

2010-05-03T17:58:00.001-05:00

I’ve tried many a time to put into words what I feel for this guy but these attempts have all failed and I think I know why. You see, it’s hard to describe something so perfect with words, and that’s exactly what he is to me even though he shouldn’t be. To others he might have faults and things that make him crazy but to me those faults are omnipresent I guess because I adore him. This wasn’t supposed to happen I know that for sure but everything happened so fast and without thought I ended up falling regardless of how hard I fought.

There’s not a point where it all happened, not a moment where I can explain that this wasn’t just two friends but from the very beginning we promised the other we would always remain friends until the very end. It could have been that twinkle that shined through those blue eyes. Maybe that sparkle that reminded me of the moon, moving in with the tide. In those eyes I drowned fast, that much I can’t deny and I can’t explain why. Maybe it was seeing him for who he really was and not the person he acted for everyone else. Seeing the kind of man he was and wanted to be threw me for a loop and I was weak at the knee. Not sure how it all went down, honestly I have no clue, but it was something we both wanted to pursue.

Incredible he was from the very beginning. I didn’t stand a chance against someone that was so outstanding. Seems like everywhere I went, no matter what I did he crossed my mind. He’s something so exciting and yet a way for me to unwind. There’s comfort in him that isn’t anywhere else. Nothing has to be said, but I know he cares. He gives and gives without a second thought, made me crazy until he gave me what we both fought so hard not to want. There was something in his lips that didn’t have to do with shape or size. When it was electric and new, yet calm and routine I realized he might be my demise.

It could have been the adrenaline that came from him just being near but it could also be the way my heart melted when he called me dear. Sitting there in his arms with them wrapped around me, I turn around and make sure he is able to run free. Loving, affectionate, and passionate to boot made him much better than a puppy although he is cuddly and cute. Trying times came around and I was sure he would run, then he didn’t and I knew it wasn’t just about having fun. Nothing had to be said and we could go back to normal after not speaking for a while. We were both so understanding, and he never feared going the extra mile. His voice is that of an angel, so comforting in the worst of times. Always making me smile and long for the next time my number would be the one he dialed. Nothing could make me reach higher than him saying, “Love you” and it was then that there was nothing I couldn’t do.

It seems strange that for something so perfect that no words could describe it there were two pages typed. Truthfully though, these pages don’t compare to the actual hype. There’s no way I can put everything he is to me on paper. To me he’s just himself and that’s all I’ll ever need or want him to be.

Dear University Of Alabama Baseball,

2010-04-27T18:22:00.003-05:00

Dear University Of Alabama Baseball,

I think it’s time you and I had a talk. During this time of year, even though the pollen is out and the rain is usually coming down, I make an effort to still come and watch you perform. I cancel Friday night dates and Saturday night slumber parties just so I can drive to Tuscaloosa and watch you play.
The suggestion has been made that I have my dates at Sewell-Thomas but honestly, most men don't like competing with you. And I can't say that I really blame them.

I am dedicated in this relationship. Can you say the same?

Just last Friday for instance, I was sitting in the stands during the monsoon, thunder, and lightning just hoping that we would get to finish our night in good terms. Instead, you kept teasing me…pulling out the tarp, removing it, warming up…only to take the tarp and put it right back over the field. I know it wasn’t really your fault, but I have to blame someone for getting all wet and cold. And who better to blame than the cute guys in really tight white pants?
In all honesty, the sound of the ball “pinging” off the bat as you make a comeback from a 9-0 deficit or the sound of the umpire yelling, “STE-RIKE!” as you send yet another batter back to the bench they came from are sounds that I long to hear. There’s something about it, and I can’t even explain it, but it soothes the soul…much like that old time rock n’ roll.

Another thing, I know that I am supposed to be the woman in this relationship but please don’t hesitate to get those uniforms dirty. Sliding is always an option when you have protection, and the dirtier you are the better. I have my Tide To Go Pen plus an array of laundry detergents that can take all those mud stains right out. Have you not seen the commercials? I guess it’s the adrenaline of not knowing if you are going to finish or not that just sends me over the edge.

Also, every little thing matters which I’m sure you already know. Losses to teams that you should beat but don’t for whatever reason is a little thing that could cost you this relationship down the road. Then again, we both know that isn’t true because, like the dedicated girlfriend I am, I will be there for better and for worse. But please, do it for me. I want to be there with you at the Hoover Met kicking some tail in June, and if you don’t finish what you start we won’t be able to take it to the next level I’m afraid.

You came out strong, and have had some ups and some downs. I say you finish strong. Because unfortunately, in this relationship you don’t have the luxury of being able to start strong and finish strong with what happens in between not really affecting your performance at the end. Size doesn’t matter; it’s just the win that counts right now. Although, bigger is always better.

I know I am a somewhat recent fan and that I am not as knowledgeable about you as I am football but just give it time. I’m trying here…and I think I’ve made a lot of headway in the short time we’ve been together. But, I can’t learn everything overnight and this is a marathon - not a sprint.

I hope you understand where I am coming from and that we can work this out. Like the faithful girlfriend I am, I will be tuned in at 6:30 (five minutes earlier than game time) so that I can hear how everything is going.

ROLL TIDE ROLL,
Cameon

Taking The Leap Of Faith In Faith

2010-03-23T20:01:00.001-05:00

Faith can cover a wide variety of things. People that have faith in God or whatever religion have faith that whatever happens, it is all for a reason. People die, people are born, buildings are torn down, toast is dropped and it must be meant to happen, “because God has a plan.”

People could also have just the faith that we can cross the street because the light is green. We can go sailing because it’s gorgeous outside without a cloud in the sky. People have faith that they won’t be let down by the people in their life.

So what happens when faith doesn’t get us anywhere but hurt? Why do we put faith and trust in other people to not hurt us? It’s almost like we put faith in someone else to keep us happy, and make our world. Then, when we’re let down we wonder why it hurts so much and why everyday seems to be dark outside even if there’s not a cloud to hide the sun.

So why?

We’ve been taught that not having faith in people will also leave us lonely because we’ll never trust/love someone enough to get hurt. Therefore, we are never truly happy.I guess then you’d be fake happy.

All in all, we take a leap of faith, in faith. Ironic huh?

We trust that people we love won’t let us down. We have faith that we are safe in their arms or words. Then, even when we are let down, we have faith in that it will all work out, and that it’s for the better. Simply put, we want someone to believe in, and someone to believe in us. Even running the risk, that along with more than half of the couples in the U.S., our leap will end with lots of money owed along with our broken hearts.

Faith doesn’t cover the unexpected. It doesn’t cover when suddenly there are huge, dark clouds in the sky. It doesn’t cover when your best friend is hit by someone that ran a red light.

Faith, like the weather, is temperamental to some. To others, it is how you make it through. Faith that everything will get better, eventually…and you can move on. Because what else can you really do?

Any Other Day Rain Would Be Fine

2010-03-21T12:41:00.001-05:00

Any other day rain is welcome in my life, but not today.

Two years ago today, they all died too young. Two years ago today, countless lives were changed and four were ended. I think of their happy personalities and their cheery smiles that they all had most of the time, and then I look at the sky.

Today is not representative of them. Today’s clouds and rain and fog is not who they were. They were sunshine, 70 degrees, with a slight breeze. They were comfort.

Two years ago was a reminder that accidents happen and that sometimes, we can’t control what happens. Two years ago, a lot was changed. My school came together for the first time in a long time to mourn two of our own, but really four because they were around each other so much. Two years ago, we were all reminded how short life can be, and how quickly it can be taken away.

Two years ago, I was preparing for a week of funerals. A funeral for two sisters that included doves that represented Stephanie and Lyndsey perfectly. A funeral for a guy that was attended by almost every motorcycle rider in Alabama, because Joel wanted to be free like that with a casket that held all of people’s memories written on it. And Zach’s, that contained a mother that let her emotion just run over at the loss of her son. Each funeral was packed, because they were who they were.

Today is not them. They were sunny. They were happy. They were them. So this week, as much as I love rain, I need sunshine. Lots and lots of sunshine.

R.I.P. Joel Swinford, Stephanie and Lyndsey Baker, and Zach Livingston. We miss you!

When You Realize That You Don’t Know A Thing

2010-03-20T12:14:00.000-05:00

I thought I had it all figured out. Most people my age do. We think that love will and can conquer the world. We think that the person we might have been together with for a short time, let’s say a year, will be the person that we can spend the rest of our lives with. We think we know all of life’s enjoyments simply because we can watch “R” rated movies without an adult with us. Because well, we think we are the adult.

I realized last night, that I don’t know much, if anything at all.

Yesterday was a beautiful day. Around 70 degrees with the sunshine out, I thought, “Spring is finally here!” Once again, as I look and see that it’s supposed to be a high of 50 degrees tomorrow, I am shown how little I know. Yesterday was the perfect day for T-Town and getting away.

This was my Spring Break, and while many of my friends went to the beach or Mexico and got into Lord knows what, I stayed around Birmingham and worked. Going to T-Town this weekend was the only thing I really wanted to do. It’s a nice little drive, there are great people, and Baseball. Plus, unlike the rest of the week, the weekend was supposed to be gorgeous. I was looking forward to my little vacation.

During my drive down there with the windows down, phone thrown in my purse, and the music up I wasn’t focused on anything else but the road. It was during the game, when everything hit me.

Alabama, in a lot of ways, defines me. Or I thought it did anyway. Alabama has become that place that I can escape to and not worry about anything. It’s where I can go on the weekend and get away. I was thinking all that and then came to the conclusion I had no clue who I’d become.

At one point, my life was defined by my family and friends. They came first, no matter what. Now, I really don’t see that as the case. Don’t get me wrong, I still love my family and friends and will be there for them no matter what. It’s not the same as it once was though. We are all into our different things, and even though we know what kind of flowers each other likes, we don’t take the time to stop and get those.

I don’t know who I am, what I want, and even worse, how to get where I think I want to go. I’m not sure how I’ve gotten to where I am. So I drove around Tuscaloosa last night trying to figure out what to do, and I realized, that I have no clue. Even worse, it’s something that I have to figure out on my own, because if someone helps me, I’m becoming who they want me to be.

Sometimes, I wish life were as simple as having to learn that if you put your hand on the stove, you will get burned. At that age, you are probably as close to who you’ll ever be as you might ever get. And while doing so, you live, laugh, and love without a second thought or worry. But it’s not that easy now, and my biggest fear is getting burned and getting into something I can’t get out of. Or even worse, being afraid of getting burned, and missing out on making the best meal of my life.

I’m not worried about things defining me because those will come along the way I think. I’m not worried about what other people think of me and how others see me. I’m worried about how I define myself, and if there even is a definition. I’m worried that I’ve tried so hard to not let people see who I really am, that I forgot who I really was. Or even worse yet, that I don’t even know who that person is myself.

Very few people have it figured out. I guess I’m wanting to be the exception, and not the rule…as always. So, I might be quiet here in the next week or two. I might not be as cheerful as I usually am. I probably won’t respond to your emails or messages…but it’s not because I don’t love you and it’s not because I don’t want to be there for you. This is just my time for me, and I’ve missed out on that.

Between A Dark Cloud And Sunshine, With A Rainbow Connecting The Two Worlds

2010-03-18T00:40:00.001-05:00

Ironically, a week ago I posted a parody between rain and love. Make no mistake, I do love the rain and everything that it represents. However, I have realized that sometimes, you can have too much of a good thing.

This past week in Birmingham, it has rained and been cloudy most of the time. Making days seem much like days seen only in horror movies with clouds, gloom, and a haze covering everywhere. Except Saturday.

Being sent to Target for baby items is not uncommon for me. I guess having a daughter that’s old enough to drive and get those things is just one of the added bonuses that my mom gets for having an 18 year old and then a 7 month old. So, after my normal routine of going into Target, getting dirty looks, getting asked how old my baby is, and then filling in whichever person decided to actually be so bold, hearing the laughter when I explain that it’s actually my little brother, and walking out…I decided to go to Starbucks.

Sitting in line at Starbucks, I see what would have been the perfect picture of life. And of course, I had no camera.

Sitting in front of me, was half of the street as bright as can be with a few clouds here and there. Fluffy and white, they were the kind of clouds that reminded you of bunnies and laying on your back in the grass during the Summer. On the other side of the street were huge dark clouds, looking as if they were ready to strike with their venom any second. And, connecting these two words, was one of the most amazing rainbows I have ever seen in my life.

Each strand of this rainbow was a magnificent color. Bright and vibrant, even against the dark clouds, you could see every one of them with impeccable clarity. It was at this moment that I realized, sometimes it takes life being dark and dreary to be able to see the things that are truly wonderful, and when they do occasionally it makes them just that must better in contrast.

This rainbow was connecting two very different worlds. At one end, you saw sunshine and at the other, you saw nothing but darkness. Two worlds that created something amazing to see. Two worlds, that individually might not have been so amazing, but when brought together, made everything seem so much better.

All of this while enjoying a White Chocolate Mocha with a shot of Toffee Nut. It doesn’t get much better than that.

The Melody of Rain

2010-03-02T22:26:00.002-06:00

Tip tap, tip tap goes the rain as it plunders down from the clouds to the ground outside my window. It's a melody I have missed hearing.

I love snow, don't get me wrong, but nothing compares to rain. Rain is the melody for love…and it's something I've been missing.

I love rain for the droplets that plummet to the earth, making me wonder where they came from, and if falling that fast and that hard is a scary thing to do. I love rain for the way it can be slow and steady, or fast and passionate. I love when there are spurts of both, to make the perfect storm.

I love rain for the comfort it brings. Rain proves to be the rhythmic beating of a heart, beating faster at times than others, but ever presently beating.

I love rain for the fact that it is just about everywhere. No matter where you go, you can usually find rain.

Sometimes, even in unexpected places. Rain isn't afraid to show up in places that it's not usually found. It also seems to show up just as people start to lose hope that it will never show.

I love rain for how you can dive right into it, get all wet and enjoy it. I love rain for how you can choose to stand back, and watch others bask in it. Sometimes, it proves to be better to stand back and watch others enjoy so that you can see what you can have, and that you don't have to settle. Sometimes, it's better to wait.

I love that rain allows you to do both, and it is just as lovely and comforting either way.

I love how rain is responsible for so many emotions.

Rain is there to make you laugh, as you decide to run through it with a friend or someone you love, laughing and smiling as you realize that there will be colds received from this endeavor. That doesn't matter now though. The future doesn't matter, because all that matters is now; this moment. Rain can make you cry as it shows up on a perfect sunny day as you lay a loved one down to rest, or go through an experience that you want them to be there for. It's there to remind you that no matter what, they will always be there. Rain can make you mad upon stepping into a puddle, reminding you of the experiences that once were and that all you have now are the after socks. Rain can lead to heartbreak though, as too much of it can cause problems. Yet, we always welcome it back with open arms, hoping that it won't hurt us this time.

Rain, much like snow, can be enjoyed with your tongue. Rain is clean, pure, and natural.

Rain is a reminder that the perfect storm is out there, even if you have to go through a few bad ones to reach that peak.

Book of Life

2010-02-28T22:04:00.001-06:00

There are different parts of my life that are changing every day, whether I like it or not. Old chapters and sections of my life are closing and new ones are beginning.

Some of the characters that have been in previous chapters aren't in my current chapters. Some of the characters that have been in previous chapters, are in the ones now, and will always be in future chapters. Then there are those that will pop into my life for however long, and I won't know how they impact my life until maybe it's too late to go back.

The previous chapters in my "Book of Life" were written in permanent ink and I'm starting to realize that the ink used doesn't go away. While it might fade, it will always be there. The mistakes that were made can't be erased, because like when you make a mistake on a typewriter, you might be able to backspace and cover it with an "x", but it will always be there. That "x" will always be there to remind you that the mistake was made.

Some of the mistakes were learned from, some weren't. Some weren't mistakes after all, but things that scared me, and so I tried to mark them out…trying to hide what was going through my head from everyone else. And what better way to do that than to mark it out to where no one else knows what it is other than me?

There are characters in my previous chapters that I miss. There are characters that made a quick appearance and then left, not leaving much of anything to remember or miss. Then there are those characters that were once prominent that for some reason just disappeared. Those are probably the ones that I wonder about most.

I'm closing a lot of sections in my life this year. I closed the section of marching Friday nights with the Shades Valley Band. I had my final Homecoming where I would wear "SV" stuff to support the guys. I had my final high school Christmas Break. I'm coming up on my last high school Spring Break. I'm closing the high school part of my life.

I've closed sections in my past that have made me into the person I am today. It might have been hard to follow at times, even from my point of view, but through the fragments, run-ons, and bad verb choices, the point was still somehow made.

As I endeavor on to new things, saying I'm scared would be an understatement. While it's exciting to see that everything will be changing, it's also terrifying. I have lived in the same house, with the same parents, and mostly the same friends, for the eighteen previous chapters in my book. Now, all of a sudden, my setting and main characters are changing.

I'm excited about these new chapters I get to write, but it's in the back of my mind that the ink will always be permanent and I can't go back later and erase what happened.

I'm excited about the chapters where I meet new friends, and get to experience new things. I'm excited about the chapters where I get to learn new things, and start on my career. I'm excited about the possibility of having a significant other in a chapter…and maybe him staying there for more than a brief moment for whatever reason. I'm excited about writing about sports and all the activities that I've gotten involved in at school. Maybe I'll dive into religion and have a whole new chapter. I'm excited about, a long way down the road, writing a chapter about my husband and me taking the kids to their first Alabama game.

I've even excited about the chapters where I experience pain that makes me stronger, because like in previous chapters, those were what made me who I am today.

I'm excited about the life, passion, and love that have yet to be written about.

I've learned that no one can write anything in my book that I don't want them to. I write what I want to write. I give people the ability to influence what I write. That's my decision, and if it's someone that shouldn't have that ability, it's my place to remove the pen from their hand. People only have as much influence on my writing and my mood, as I give to them.

Something I've learned is that sometimes, the best chapters and events were things that I never meant to happen. They are the chapters that I look back on now and ask myself, "How did that even happen?" So, I'm going into these new chapters with the outlook of writing a mystery and not being scared of what might happen. I'm diving in heart first, because I've learned that if you dive into things head first all the time, you end up trying to rewrite things that were perfect the way they were before. Worse even, you could change something before you even get a chance to write it that could affect the whole book.

I want to write my chapters with the current word being my focus, and not the whole idea all of the time. I don't want what I want to happen in my future chapters, to blind me from what's going on in the current chapter. I want t enjoy every paragraph, every sentence that makes up that paragraph, every word that makes up that sentence, and every letter that makes up that word. I want to appreciate the small things, so that the big things are even better.

I don't want to rewrite anything. I want to be the person I am. I want to become who I am…I want to develop all throughout my book of life. I know I will have main characters with me that will help me through all the bad times, as I'm sure there will be more to come. These same people will be there through the good times, and probably through some of the trouble. Then there will be the new people that will have a lot of catching up to do.

What I want most though, is to impact someone in my book or with my book. Doesn't matter which chapter, I just don't want my book to end up like some of my friend's textbooks (Never opened).

So, here's to my book. Here's to your book. May you have an incredible time writing yours and impact someone with it, no matter how big or small.

-Cameon

Looks Like Cupid Came Early For The Bama Chick: Alabama vs. Arkansas

2010-02-14T01:02:00.001-06:00

Looks Like Cupid Came Early For The Bama Chick: Alabama vs. Arkansas

First off, I would just like to mention how refreshing it is to not have to write about a one point loss, a 30 point loss, or a loss at all when it comes to the Alabama Crimson Tide Basketball Team.

Tonight, I get to write about a win as the Alabama Crimson Tide defeated the Arkansas Razorbacks this afternoon 73-68. It was a win that most didn't see coming. It was a win that I hope will be the first of many. It was a win that was of the utmost importance to the Tide for several reasons.

There was no doubt that the confidence in this team was falling and had been for some time. From the players to the coaches, it was evident the disappointing losses to teams such as Vandy, Florida, Tennessee, and most definitely Ole Miss were taking a toll on this team and what they set out to accomplish. The will to win was slipping. Old mentalities from former coaches were slipping through. Faith in this new coach was starting to fade.

It seemed after loss after loss after loss and at Coach Grant's confession that he didn't really have answers either, that this team might just need time. Or they might need a new plan.

A new play book was exactly what they got.

Throughout this season, we have seen the Tide start out strong, leading by as much as 23 points at the half only to end up losing a game in the last ten minutes of the second half.

In today's game against the Razorbacks, the Tide was down at the half by nine. With eleven turnovers, one attempted three pointer, and Arkansas scoring the second most points against Alabama in the first half with 38, it seemed that the Tide was going to have a heck of a time defeating this team.

The second half proved to be the yang of this yin and yang team. With a 49 percent performance from the field (second highest in SEC play this season), putting up a 70-point game for only the second time in the season (the first was against Tennessee State), coming back from a loss, and finally keeping a lead…this team was improved.

Rather, Coach Grant realized that this team could get by in the first half. Just keep it close enough to be able to come back, and then come out on fire the second half. He realized he had talent, but he had no depth and these guys couldn't play a 40 minute game the way it needed to be played. He stopped making excuses, and figured out a new plan. He overcame defeat, as did the players.

This team won 73-68 against the leader in the Western Division.

At asking several people what sports has taught them throughout life, Leroy Watson Jr. said, "Sometimes, you have to get that first victory, that first triumph, that first reason to feel good about yourself - and then, the sky is the limit."

Alabama Basketball received that light in my opinion tonight with this win. For themselves, for the 13,151 fans in Coleman Coliseum, and for everyone else that dares to notice.

Now, it's what they do with this new found light against Georgia next week in Athens that will determine if it's an actual light, or just the glow from the arrow Cupid stuck the team with this afternoon to get them to win for my Valentine's Day present.

Happy Valentine's Day Bleacher Creatures and Roll Tide!

Sports: The Duck Tape of the World

2010-02-12T09:41:00.001-06:00

People always joke with me about how sports seem to consume my life. Honestly, I've always just laughed at them. Granted, maybe at them and not with them, but I've laughed none the less.

Not until today did I realize that they might not be wrong, and that it might also not be the worst thing that could consume my life or have an impact on it.

I've written before about spending those moments with my dad and sporting events. Whether it was throwing a ball outside, watching a game from home, or even going to a game, they are all precious moments. These are the moments that will never be forgotten and are even now, becoming more and more precious to me as I realize that we will all be parting ways here in a few months when I leave for college.

Sports have always given me something to talk to my Dad about. They have given him and I something to discuss when he gets home from work, clearly not wanting to talk about his hectic day at the office. They have given him and I something to talk about when I get home, clearly not wanting to talk about whatever boy has done me wrong this time. They have given us something to talk about on summer nights, winter days, and fall mornings.

Suddenly, the day's craziness might be temporarily forgotten by one of us mentioning the latest news about a new recruit that signed with a school, a game that's supposed to be coming on, or maybe our in-depth analysis of a game that was played that night or earlier on in the week. And yes, we do analyze these things as if we knew what we were talking about. Or I do anyway, true to female form.

They have given a teenage daughter and her dad a way to bond. More importantly, they have given us something to talk about as I head off to school, when life won't be at home anymore.

Sports have given me that ability to have all kinds of different emotions. From happy as I watched the Alabama Crimson Tide win their first National Championship since I was born, to nervous as I waited to see if Mount Cody really could pull off a second field goal block in a game, to sad as the Basketball team loses a game that they came so close to winning. (There were too many to mention here recently, so I just left it open ended).

Sports have shown me that it is perfectly ok to be passionate about something. It's ok to be happy that they won. It's ok to be sad that they lost. It's ok to be mad when they can do better. It's ok to be passionate and dive into something heart first.

Sports have taught me that being better is always an option. Whether it was a basket that you could have made but didn't, or a play you could have run better, or even a free throw that you know you could have made had you been paying a little more attention to your form, you can do better. There is always room for improvement.

Sports have taught me that no matter how bad it may be, it will always get better. I remember after September 11, 2001, people being worried about holding Football games or any other sporting event because of the mass number of people that would be gathered. They were scared that another terrorist attack would happen.

I also remember arenas holding games anyway, because they realized that for so many people, it was their place they could go to escape. It was their place to escape their loss of a loved one. It was their place to escape the hurt that they felt at the attack on their country. It was their place to think about their son or daughter that enlisted right after, so they could go and fight.

It was normalcy, even if for only a couple of hours. It was moving on.

Sports continue to be that break, even for just a moment, to so many people. It's the break from everyday life that gets us boggled down sometimes.

It's that reminder, that you can still enjoy things, when times are tough.

Sports are what fuel me to be the person that I am. They have helped me into becoming the person I am in some small ways. This is how they have impacted me, and I'm curious to know how they impact you.

Tidbit of information: The case that encloses the famous button that controls whether or not the United States anilities another country is called "the football." Coincidence? I think not. If it proves to be crimson…well, that would just be brilliant.

An Unexpected Reminder

2010-02-03T23:33:00.002-06:00

People laugh when I tell them that my Mom had a baby 5 months ago. Why? Well, probably because there are 18 years between this little guy and myself and 16 years between my younger sister Megan and Michael.

"Starting over" is what a lot of people call it, and people have proven to be exactly right.

In the everyday chaos that life has become with school, work, college choices, sports (the list could go on forever) we had all forgotten how to laugh and appreciate what I like to call "the small things" in some ways at my house as I'm sure everyone does.

We had forgotten that arguments are best ended in laughter, that laughter is contagious, that smiling is contagious, and that most of all, nothing is too small to appreciate and be amazed by.

Michael has been the blessing and the glue that has kept us from all going crazy in my opinion in these crazy times of Megan driving, me picking colleges, and MaMa and Daddy having things going on of their own.

A terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day suddenly turns into a ray of sunshine at the sight of this little guy grinning at you when you walk in the door and ask him how his day was. Suddenly, as this little guy is grinning at you with no teeth, you realize that maybe everything isn't so bad after all.

An argument that once seemed so very important and heated suddenly becomes funny when Michael starts giggling at whatever is going on. (He also laughs at the mentioning of him being naked…not sure about that one yet, but it's still funny). At the hearing of this little giggle, you can't help but laugh because you realize how trivial this all must be in the end and more importantly, that a five month old sees it and you don't.

Sleep suddenly becomes something I treasure as work has died down and I've been able to come home and take naps with the little guy in the afternoon. He's gotten used to the routine and so have I honestly. Those little (and when I say little I actually mean rather large) arms of his reaching for me as if saying, "Hey! I know we are about to go get a nap so let's go!" is possibly the best thing to come home to in the afternoon. Although, there have been several pictures taken by my parents of their oldest and youngest children sleeping side by side under the Bama blanket that will eventually end up on Graduation videos much to my dismay I'm afraid.

It's that little face that looks so innocent when he's asleep as if all the world's troubles are just forgotten. It's also that little grin that he gets when he's asleep that makes you wonder, "What in the world is he dreaming about?" that makes this little guy so amazing.

It's his love for cleavage (yes, you read that right) that makes him hilarious to watch around women. For some reason, no matter who it is, that little hand is going to that ladies cleavage. (Mental note made to never take him to Hooters as an older child).

It's his love for Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide (he gets silent if anyone from the team gets on TV or I start singing Yea Alabama!) that solidifies the fact that he must be my brother. Not to mention, he looks amazing in Crimson. J

It's him and I sitting on the couch watching the Crimson Tide beat Texas for the first National Championship won since I was born or another sporting event, that make me anxious for our first game together and how he will react.

It's his desire to watch and learn everything he can from the people in my house that amazes me. I take things like eating solid food for granted. Poor guy has to deal with that nasty cereal looking stuff, and you can bet he gives me the eye every time I go to take a bite out of a cheeseburger.

It's the realization that things are changing in my life as they will in all of ours. It seems like only yesterday I was walking into 5-K and now I am making plans to go to college. I can't help but wonder what things will be like for this little guy, and also realize that I will hopefully be a part in his life and who he becomes.

I have already made so many memories with this little guy, and he has already taught us all so much. I can't wait to see what will happen in the future, but at the same time, I'm a live in the moment kinda person so I am enjoying every minute of this.

Yes, my parents did "start over" but Michael has brought so many new beginnings that I don't think of that as a bad thing. In fact, I would say the complete opposite is true. I love you Michael Stephen.

Alabama Basketball: The Younger Sibling To Alabama Football

2010-01-22T00:05:00.001-06:00

For any of you that have siblings and had the "pleasure" of being the younger sibling, I'm sure you know about the younger sibling mentality. I personally have never gone through it because I'm the oldest in my family, but my sister tells me about it all the time. Teachers ask her if she's "Cameon's sister" frequently, teachers compare her to me, and they expect her to be like me in everything that she does.

Alabama Basketball has become the younger sibling to Alabama Football, but I think that can/will change with the fan's help and support that has diminished over the years.

Let's face it, in the last few years Alabama Basketball has taken a backseat to Nick Saban, SEC Championships, National Championships (dreams of before this year) and recruiting. Nick Saban and the Football program as a whole have become the bigger sibling in the absence of a good Basketball coach and a lack of, let's be honest, ability to win from the Basketball team.

Luckily for Alabama Basketball, they have more similarities with Coach Saban and Alabama Football as a whole than my sister and I have.

Coaches

One thing Alabama Basketball had been missing for a long time was a decent coach, and that problem was alleviated with the hiring of Coach Anthony Grant in March of 2008.

Coach Grant said when he first came to the University of Alabama that he wanted to bring the passion back into the sport for the university. This guy has a process, just like Saban does, and if you look at them, these two guys aren't that much different.

Coach Grant expects a lot from his players, all the time, just like Coach Saban. He doesn't tolerate one guy wanting to be "the man," and he doesn't tolerate less than 100% at all times. He has a process. He knows what he wants from his players, and he knows what needs to be done to get there.

Remember that Coach Grant is playing with someone else's players, but it's clear that these guys have bought into the process that Grant has talked about and you can tell that from the way they play.

With all these things that Coach Grant has against him, including terrible officiating, he doesn't except excuses or make excuses for the team losing. In fact, he has said before that they should have had games like Vandy won before the last :06 seconds when the bad call was made.

This team's record is by no means perfect (11-5), but remember that Saban went 6-7 his first year at Alabama, and the season is far from over.

Players

Coach Grant has made some vast improvements in these guys and the game they are playing. Their dedication, determination, and want/power to win have improved by one million percent. Not only that, but the maturity of this team on and off the court, has improved.

These guys have bought into what Coach Grant has told them. They are believers that they can and will be better with work, dedication, and by listening to their coaches and getting what needs to be done taken care of.

Sound familiar to another sport at the University to me.

(Remember earlier when I mentioned that my sister aren't very similar, this is when that comes into play)

Fans

Bryant-Denny Stadium is filled to capacity at almost every home game. The waiting list to get season tickets was over five years the last time I checked. Alabama Football fans are there whether it is in snow, rain, tornado, or hurricane. At least 92,138 people (respectively) show up to support "their" Football team and there are more people that want to be there but don't have the means to be there.

Where are these fans during Basketball season?

Coleman Coliseum has a capacity of 15,316 people. That's less than a fourth of what Bryant-Denny can hold. Surely, being the Alabama fans that we are, we can fill that place up for EVERY home game.

Getting to the game way earlier than expected, I got to hear Chris Stewart make a speech to the students. His request was to come to the games, bring a friend (he really emphasized this point) and make some noise.

That's my request to you, and while I may not be Chris Stewart, voice of Alabama Basketball and Baseball, I hope I have some influence, if for no other reason than I'm younger and female. J

Alabama Basketball is making a comeback, and they need your help and support just like the Football team did coming out of the Shula period and Saban's first year.

15,316 fans screaming, sporting their crimson gear, getting involved in a program that is getting better and is a part of the University we yell so loudly for every Fall. Let's keep it going. I am even including a link to the schedule and the Alabama Basketball Community page.

Roll Tide!

Question: Please describe something that changed your life, in a good or bad way

2009-12-10T23:46:00.000-06:00

Every now and then, we have the chance to meet someone that truly changes our lives. They can change our lives in a small way, a huge way, or maybe even change it without even knowing it. I met five people like this, and I will never forget the lessons that they taught me at my middle school almost five years ago.

Gym class was not my favorite class. Dodge-ball just didn’t provide the entertainment for me that it did for the other kids so I tended to stand over to the side, which is when I noticed some other kids doing the same thing. It wasn’t until later that I realized they were actually the Special Education class that had been in my PE class the whole year without me noticing. Suddenly, after an hour spent with them, these were the kids I wanted to spend time with and help learn. Since we had an opportunity to choose what we wanted to do during our “recreation” period this year it was the perfect opportunity for me to ask my principal if I could volunteer to work in their class, and I did.

J.J., C.J., Jeffrey, Michael, and Nathan are five kids that changed how I looked at life. They helped me to realize that using the word “retarded” like so many people do was wrong and offensive to them, so it became a pet peeve of mine when my friends did it. They helped me to realize how to love people, and give everyone a chance. I learned new ways to help kids with any disability learn and get the concept of new things from addition and subtraction to table manners.

Most importantly, these kids helped me to become the way I am in that they were passionate about everything. Emotion was raw in just everything they did, and I fell in love with that. A hug that could take your breath away from J.J. was unlike any other. Michael talking to you about basketball was the best thing, because he loved it so much. Jeffrey fell in love with a song that we sang at lunch to help him to remember to stay seated when he was supposed to and would sing it all the time. Nathan had a passion for learning whatever he could and C.J. had a passion for cars and history. They were all passionate kids that taught me to be the same about everything I get involved in.

They are the reason I chose Special Education as a career. They are the reason I am so passionate about life. I had inspiration. These five kids, without even knowing it, helped me to realize that I could also make a difference. Later that year, two more kids volunteered to work with these kids, and the next year a few more volunteered. They just wanted to be around normal people, but normal kids had never tried. They taught me that one person can make a difference. I’ll never forget the times I was able to share with these kids, and how they influenced my life.

The Calm After The Storm

2009-12-10T22:09:00.001-06:00

Today was just another example of why I love storms. Storms, and the day after storms, provide the best metaphor in life.

As I sat in my bed Tuesday night, (I think), I couldn't believe the storm that was rumbling on outside. The lightning was illuminating the sky and making shadows of the tress on my windows that always creep me out a little bit. The wind was blowing so hard that I thought it was rain, knocking over our inflatables that were bringing our street Christmas cheer (and my parents a huge power bill). The rain was pounding on the roof and I got to hear from my mother, for the up tenth time, that Daddy really needed to call the guy about the roof. (Which seemed a little late if you ask me)

Trees were blown over, red lights were rocking back and forth and blinking with strange colors, electrical lines were over the roads. I couldn't help but think that this was the end as I knew it, and, as it seemed a little immature to go and ask my mommy and daddy if I could sleep with them, I just sat and listened.

This storm was nothing like some of the storms/tornadoes that have occurred in the past. I remember in the 3rd grade sitting down in our "kiss your butt goodbye" position and the doors of the school flying open and my side of the hallway being drenched with water as the fury of the wind flung open the doors and brought nature into us. I also remember hearing about the tornado that hit Enterprise a few years ago and the students that were killed in that awful storm.

Buildings were torn down, trees were uprooted, families were torn apart, schools mourned, cars were toppled over, and life as people knew it would never be the same. Then, the day after happened.

Days like today (which was the whole point of the story) remind me of the storms of life. A slight breeze, the sunshine winking at me through a few clouds, and just cold enough to remind me that I still need to get a few Christmas presents, made today the perfect day.

Sometimes we have storms in our life that take away the things we treasure most. The things that we think we will never get back and can't live without. At the moment, everything...your house, family, car, job, makes you feel like the world might be against you. Then days like today happen, and the world reminds us that, even though we sometimes go through hard times, there are still pretty days ahead.

Kids still play outside, the sun will still shines, and people are still there to help you through whatever might be going on. Its the calm after the storm and it's what gets me through the storms.

Topic 4: Tell us about something that fascinated you, something that you are amazed and intrigued by, and tell us why.

2009-11-23T23:40:00.002-06:00

Remember the days when everything was new and exciting? Those nights outside catching lightning bugs and playing outside until Mom or Dad called you inside to wash up and eat dinner. Those days when you didn’t dare touch the stove because Mom told you that the burner monster would get you if you did. The days when flying seemed like a real possibility because the birds could do it. Nothing seemed impossible. Waking up for school every day was exciting because learning something new was thrilling beyond belief. These were the days of being a kid.

Kids represent everything I want to be. The way they are able to see everything with a newness and excitement intrigues me. The way that they are able to take little things like hide and go seek and playing with twigs and make them into hour long activities or how they make two cars into a whole NASCAR race make me inspired by them and their imaginations. Their unconditional love for people also fascinates me because, not only can they love unconditionally no matter what a person looks like on the outside, but they can also see the bad in some people right off the reel. A child’s diligence to put every piece of sand back in the sand box, or rather, take every piece of sand out of the sand box, is a work ethic I admire. Mostly, a child’s love for life and everything in it is what fascinates me. A child’s ability to be blunt and honest and not be afraid to be themselves is something I miss being older.

In these times when we are giving kids Ritalin to calm them down and telling kids to be like everyone else, I will never understand why or how we are capable of doing such things. Maybe it is because we have lost our inner child. Maybe it is because, in the everyday hustle and bustle, we need to get out that coloring book and crayons and remember what it is like to color outside the lines. Carl Gustav Jung once said, “If there is anything we wish to change in the child, we should first examine it and see whether it is not something that could better be changed in ourselves.” Children fascinate me because they are children, and everything that entails.

This Just In: Adam Lambert Is Gay (GASP)

2009-06-09T12:13:00.001-05:00

I have one of those fancy clock radios that plays music when I wake up in the morning. I find that usually it soothes me and helps me to get up. I mean, how could waking up to Keith Urban singing about staying in the bed all day not wake someone up right?

Occassinally, I wake up to the news which usually makes me want to hide back under the covers. There are car wrecks, thunderstorms pounding one of the coasts, robberies in 4 counties overnight, and a church that has burned down all while I slept.

But, the "BREAKING NEWS!" this morning was that Adam Lambert came out in a Rolling Stones interview and said he was indeed gay.

I was dumbfounded. I didn't know what to do. I didn't know what to say. My life was changed forever as I knew it. What would I do now?

And then it hit me. HEEEEELLLLLLLOOOOOO??!! EVERYONE KNEW THAT!

This guy is a joke if he didn't think no one had caught onto that. If he was trying to hide it, maybe he should have not commented on Paula's ensembles on air.

But the thing is, he did know people knew because he said the reason he lost was because of his sexuality. Hummm...someone hath called the media and told.

And maybe he did. Or, maybe it was because people liked Kris better. Maybe it's because parents watch that show and they weren't impressed by his dapper costumes and bedazzling abilities.

Maybe it was because teens were kinda freaked out by him. Or maybe, he was close but just not close enough.

MAYBE IT WAS RIGGED!!

Adam was talented. I will give him that. I thought Kris was better and not trying so hard he became fake...but hey, I'm only one person. Although Adam also mentioned how cute Kris was and how he was a distraction. (Watch out Mrs. Allen)

But this Adam, surely he knows after the Clay Aiken incident that people are accustomed to gay American Idols. I'm sure Adam will come out with a record deal. I'm even willing to bet my bedazzler on it, and it's never been used.

Bottom line, Adam Lambert is gay. I just thought everyone should know so that your life could be changed as much as mine was.

I have done my deed.

A Life Or Death Situation: How Far Would You Go To Help A Rival?

2009-05-24T00:40:00.004-05:00

I'll admit I have recently taken to BleacherReport again, but I would love everyone's help on this subject that I recently wrote an article about which you can check out here.

Let me know your comments.

Roll Tide,
Cameon

On To Something Serious

2009-05-19T19:24:00.003-05:00

As many of you know, I write for several sports sites when I am not writing on here. And if you didn't know, well you do now.

I have posted links to many of my articles in an effort to get my writing noticed, but more for the fact that I tend to write inspirational things dealing with sports.

This one, is even a little more different.

When I first joined BleacherReport.com I was a little skeptical. I was one of very few females, I was very young, and the only things I had ever written were things for school and recreational pieces.

But there was one guy in particular by the name of GrayGhost that encouraged me to keep writing. He told me I had great talent, I could touch the hearts of many, and get people to thinking. I was 17 years old, female, and getting compliments on a sports site.

Words could not explain how thrilled I was.

Gray even wrote an article talking about the young writers, and had no order except girls first (the only girl I might add). He promoted our work with nothing asked in return except to keep writing.

For that, I thought I should do something in return.

Gray's 4 year old grandson was diagnoed with a malignant brain tumor. I wrote an article on BleacherReport which I would love for everyone to read here.

I hope that you will help with the message shared in that article.

Thanks,
Cameon

Grace In Small Things

2009-05-11T14:00:00.003-05:00

Recently, I joined an online community called "Grace In Small Things." I stumbled upon this community from a friend's blog and was curious when I saw all these lists that had things like "the sunset, hearing my dad laugh, and some various other things." When I asked her about it, she said she had joined a community that strives on bringing out the positive things in life instead of the negative, which seems to be the more popular choice in these times.

I got to thinking about this and quickly realized how much perspective we lose when we get older. Sure, we gain persepective in some areas, but we lose the most important thing: Gratitude for the small things in life.

When we are younger, we tend to appreciate things more than when we get my age and my parents age because we are new to the world and have so much to take in. Then, when we get into retirement age, we are able to slow down once again and appreciate the small things because we realize how short our time here really is and how much there is to see. And, unfortunately for the loved ones, but some people are made aware of how big the world is and how much it has to offer when they are told they only have a few months left to enjoy it.

I can't tell you how grateful I am to be able to be around kids all the time. After all, they help me keep my "young" perspective on life and nothing is out of the realm of possibilities. When you are that little, you think that you can do anything. You can be the President, an NFL star, and a lawyer and still be home for dinner at that age. Stars are amazing and watching the clouds roll by can provide entertainment for hours. Lightning bugs were meant to be caught and then let go and competitions on who could catch the most were always on. Supper came when your mom called you and your dad inside to wash up or else, because you ate as a family. Boys and girls were strictly friends and beyond that had cooties. Some of the best Saturday cartoons came on and you were always up to watch them, clad in your Bama pjs with coco puffs in hand. Nothing was little. Everything was big. Everything meant the world to you.

This was a time when friends were your friends to their face and behind their back. You wouldn't dare think of being nice to someone's face and then turning around and being mean to them. If someone punched your best friend, you can bet that he'd have a crowd around him, waiting to get revenge. Nights were shared with slumber parties and movie nights. Gameboy rocked and then got even better when it came out in color. Family television was really a time the family could sit down, watch a movie, and not be worried about who's sleeping with who in the newest show. Anxious to give a hug to anyone and never missing a beat when your parents wanted a kiss. $1 was like $50 and you couldn't believe your fortune. Weekends at the grandparents house were so much fun, because well, let's face it, they just can't say no. A time when little things were big things.

So much of the time when we get older, we lose sight of the things that used to be important to us because we are in such a hurry to get to the next appointment or get to the television faster. We don't take time to focus on the stars at night or even to recognize that there are stars in the sky. Instead, we are focused on what the kids need for lunch tomorrow or what homework we haven't done. We would rather focus on the fact that we didn't get that promised raise instead of focusing on our loved one's laughter and the ability for us to make them laugh.

So, my challenge to everyone is to find 5 things everyday that you are grateful for. Small or big things. And, you do this for a while year. I am going to take this challenge on as well and start a seperate blog specifically for this purpose. I encourage you to do the same thing, and keep track of other's and encourage others you know that are doing this as well. And why not start today?

I hope everyone sees the small things in life today, and every other day.

Roll Tide,

The Bama Chick

When Your Parents Are Right

2009-05-09T22:36:00.002-05:00

Unfortunately, I have reached another point in my life where my parents were right. And, I really hate to admit that for more than one reason. First off, this isn't the first time this has happened. Secondly, I know that it will happen again. And finally, I am scared of what they might be right about next.

Let's face it, no matter what age we are, it is hard to admit that our parents are right. It just seems unnatural to admit that someone that can't work a television set knows about a lot of other things.

I mean, the fact that they can't figure out how to text message and yet they have all this philosophical knowledge befuddles me. They can't figure out T9 but they know all about relationships, school, jobs, and they have all this experience...in everything, except, of course, anything dealing with a remote, sliding your finger, or pushing a button. (No sexual innuendos intended)

So, back on track...once again my parents were right. They have been right about the guys that weren't going to be good for me. They have been right about the guys that seemed to be good guys, but really weren't. They have been right about school and the importance of it. They have been right about how leggings would come back in style (good job MaMa). Although the most recent thing they were right about was the fact that eventually, my guy friends would get girlfriends that didn't like their having a female best friend.

If you don't know anything about me, I love football and every other kind of sport. I work at Bama Fever and basically plan my dating calendar around Alabama Football. (And now the importance of being a Bama fan becomes important when dating me becomes apparent). I also love politics and...ok...maybe guys aren't interested in that. Not to mention, I am a girl (in case you haven't heard). So, they think I am all into the female mind, although, I hate to tell them, I try and get as far away from that as possible. And, apparently, "I speak 'guy' ." And, to be perfectly honest, I can't figure out if that is a good quality or not.

I guess, for all the above reasons, I am the best "girl friend" to a lot of guys. That is how it has always been. I never saw that changing. Life was good.

Girls are complicated. I will never understand how a man learns to understand one enough to marry her and continually tick her off every day or every other day. There is so much drama and talk of shows and clothes and Coach bags. $300 for a bag?! That could buy a signed Tim Tebow jersey ladies. Maybe even two depending on if he was feeling charitable that day or not.

All the above reasons are probably another reason that I have kind of migrated to guy best friends. The relationship is simple. I have a guy problem, they go and beat him up. I have a football need, I ask. They have a football need, they ask. They have burping contests and I judge them. I occasionally hear the story about the girl last night and scold them for talking about girls in such foul ways all the while secretly thinking how preposterous this story must be.

Ah...with some chips and salsa, this would be the perfect relationship right?

But, like every other story, there is an evil villain...the girlfriend.

My Daddy warned me that eventually, I would come to an age where girls didn't like their boyfriend having a girl for their best friend. Apparently, "this is awkward and just drives girlfriends crazy." I can honestly say, apparently, is not a true statement, because it does. No doubt.

Suddenly, you are not the girl that has been their best friend for four years. No, you are the girl that wants to steal him away. You are not the girl that all the guys hang around with on Saturday to watch football with. Nope, you are the evil mastermind planning to pick their boyfriend, buy plane tickets, escape with them to Barbados, and dance the night away under the stars. You are also not the girl that has grown up with him. You know him really well, so you must like him.

I can't say I understand this honestly. First off, in four years if I have "stolen him," why would I wait until now? Secondly, I wouldn't spend money on plane tickets. That is just way too expensive. And, I don't dance except to Yea Alabama. And finally, if we have grown up together, chances are I know him well enough to not ever want to be anything more than friends and think of him as a brother. That is how life is.

I guess the time has just come where I have to understand that these girls are insecure about the relationship and are afraid that someone might come in and steal them away. In fact, I might just make a leather costume and name myself "BS." (Boyfriend stealer, this is a clean blog folks). And the best part would be, I could be on Smallville with Tom Welling!

But my question is why ladies?

Why can you not see that having a female as his best friend is one of the best advantages? She has all the dirt, she doesn't have gross habits (mostly), she understands when you need to be together, and she can help him to understand you better (sometimes.)

Why can you not see that if he is going to be stolen, it doesn't have to be the best friend to do so? Most likely, if he is willing to be stolen, the feelings weren't that strong at the beginning and its better you find out now isn't it? If a guy is going to run, he is going to run, and there isn't squat you can really do about it.

Why can you not see that we have nothing to hide so we'll tell you whatever? Sometimes relationships end and you beccome really good friends instead. Your boyfriend is going to have a history. And, more than likely, you will to. But it is just that, history. Whatever is going on now is just friendship, (again, for the most part.)

...So, until things change and women realize that a guy having female friends is actually a good thing most of the time, I am auditoning for a new best friend. I might get a Lab. They are friendly, cuddly, and good listeners. They do slobber though... oh wait, so do human males.

Ah...well, it seems as if I'll never win.

And the scary thing is, I've been told eventually I will hopefully care enough about someone to get jealous of friends that my guy might have. Male or female...Oh happy days.

A Car Ride That Could Change Things

2009-05-03T22:12:00.003-05:00

More than likely at some point or another you have heard a story about "the good ole' days." This morning, was one of those ocassions for me.

All throughout my childhood I have heard stories from various people about the Titanic sinking, WWI, WWII, The Great Depression, The Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Each one of them serving a different purpose and a different moral that I was to learn from them.

The stories ranged from morals dealing with hunger, starvation, poverty, fighting, patriotism, being strong, to having to stand up and fight for things you didn't necessarily believe in. Each one of them most of the time, too graphic for a young child to be hearing about. But at any rate, important none the less.

Now, I hear stories from family members that had loved ones trapped in the World Trade Centers on 9-11 or family members that had loved ones on the planes or the rescue crews. I hear stories from soldiers that went and fought in the War in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Although I have heard all these stories, nothing hit me quite so hard as what my grandmother happened to mention in the car this morning.

While driving to Church this morning, my grandmother started talking about her trip to the Galleria the previous day. She was annoyed that she couldn't find a table to sit at by the carousel but, not caring enough, she went and sat in the area where there are birthday parties taking place. In the midst of talking about her lunch, she looked at me and said,

I can't believe how far we have come. I guess it's just something about the times that I grew up in, but seeing black and white kids sitting together still seems a little weird to me.

Now, please understand that my grandmother is not a racist. But, the simplicity and profoundness of this statement just hit me all at one time. I got to thinking about what I will be telling my grandkids later on in life. Then I got to thinking about what would seem strange to me that they would look at me and just laugh at with that, "Oh grandma, you are so funny," expression on their face.

In her child hood, my grandmother grew up with segregated schools. She grew up with women staying at home and taking care of the kids for the most part. She grew up with all of these different things that seem strange to her now.

She didn't grow up with the computer, the television, the IPhones and ITouches, or even cell phones for that matter. No, she just grew up with simplicity.

I got to thinking about things that might happen later on that might effect me and my grandkids. Besides the government (and I'll leave that for another posting), what about gay marriage, stem cell research, abortion, health care, AIDS, cancer, God, and biracial relationships?

Will these things be run of the mill by the time I have grandkids and will they simply look at me and think of how old I must really be? Will I go to tell them about the attack on the World Trade Centers and still remember every detail as I do now?

I hope so. Because the stories I've heard have changed my life. And so did the simple statement that my grandmother made on the way to Church this morning. And the funny thing is, I bet she didn't even think her lunch was that important.

Why? I'll Tell You Why? Our Liberal Media

2009-04-19T13:43:00.004-05:00

Wednesday night, my Dad and I decided to attend the "Tea Party" at Valleydale. Excited that I would get a chance to meet other people that realized what is wrong in this great nation I posted a facebook status. It was fairly simple and to the point. It just said, "Cameon bought her new Portuguese Water Dog with the Stimulus Package. Going to the rally."

OK, so I did take a stab at the new Portuguese Water Dog that was bought by the President, but I thought it was pretty clever. (Please contact me if you would like a bumper sticker)

At any rate, before even 5 minutes had passed there was a "facebook war" taking place on my facebook. Insults were being thrown back and forth, words were being exchanged, parents were telling their kids to hide in the closet, and Obama was sicking his precious Water Dog on the infidels.

Finally, my Godfather stepped in and said, "This is some kinda cat fight you have going on here. I am curious though as to what GW Bush did that was so wrong in the eyes of your generation. Don't get me wrong, I don't agree with everything he did, but on the whole, he did most of what we elected him to do. Hell I think Ronaldus Magnus was the greatest president this nation has ever seen, but I did not think he did everything right.What did Bush do or not do?"

This, is my response to that question.

It wasn't a cat fight first of all. That would require that the other side said things that were intelligent and that wasn't happening. At all. Which brings me to my next point.

I have a feeling that if you ask most of the people in my generation why they think George W. Bush was such a bad President, they would either spout off "I dunno," or all the crap that the media has filled their parent's brain with, which went directly to them.

So, the usual reasons for people in my generation to hate Bush?

1. Operation Iraqi Freedom

"They kill babies while they are in Iraq." HELLO???!!! The media has convinced people in my generation that our troops go over their and shoot up everyone with no regard to anything but themselves. If only these people took the time to do some research they would find that the people in Iraq use kids as mortars. That's right. They strap bombs to their kids and send them out to play because they know that American soldiers won't shoot a child at first, giving them just enough time to set off the bomb and destroy an American life and their own child's. But it won't just be one American life, it will also be that soldier's potential family. His wife, kids, parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters...all of those American lives that will be changed forever. To these people, one life that can be replaced is worth destroying American lives.
"We are destroying their country." The media has also convinced people in my generation that the American soldiers are destroying this fine country. I mean obviously, because it was so splendid before. But that's beside the point. What the media doesn't let on is that the terrorists in this country use their schools, mosques, and other buildings to place bombs in. They place bombs in playgrounds knowing that the American soldier will then have to make the choice of destroying a school or the bomb that will potentially kill more people. When they go in, they are obviously accused of running into a school full of Iraqi children...or a religious center even if the bomb was centered right under Ala.
"We are losing American lives for nothing." If you believe that they are fighting for nothing, that is your problem. However, the guys fighting over there have to believe they are fighting for something or they would be dead pretty quickly. The minute you give up what you are fighting for, is the minute you lose a reason to keep fighting. And that is when all of a sudden you just stop.

2. World Trade Centers

"He didn't respond fast enough." The media has it implanted in our generation that George W. Bush had all of this intelligence that would have stopped the World Trade Centers from being hit. People in my generation say that it's his fault for letting that happen. But, at the same time, when there are reports that Iraq has nuclear warheads they are planning to use on the U.S. we are supposed to not go over there and stop them. WHAT KIND OF SENSE DOES THAT MAKE??!!

3. He destroyed the economy

"It's his fault that we are in this huge mess. He's a Republican." Once again, the media and no research on their part. Little do these people know that even before Bush came into office the Congress was Democratic and he could not get anything passed except what they believed would be "the right thing to do." Granted, the bail outs weren't such a great idea, but in other circumstances and with other action taken, they could have been.

Charlie,

To tell you the truth, the reason that people in my generation think former President George W. Bush was so horrible is because the media has told them so and because they haven't taken the time to research anything that might be different.

People in my generation are too concerned about Facebook, American Idol, and the latest fashions to be worried about death rates or anything else. They are too worried about those things and not worried enough about the principles that this country was founded on.

People in my generation don't have principles or morals for the most part. The idea is that everything goes and that you can do anything because parent's can't discipline their kids the way they used to in fear of being sent to DHR for abusing their kids. Everything is given, and nothing is earned.

People in my generation lack the ability and the passion that the people in say my grandfather's generation possessed. People in my generation haven't had to face hard times or difficulties because everything is just handed out.

People in my generation don't care.

Except for the very few.

And Hopefully This Will Ring Bells To David...

2009-04-09T23:05:00.003-05:00

I have thought about the best way to approach David's latest blog response and I'll admit, I was running out of ideas. Until I read one of his own blogs about a video he posted on YouTube. (Which by the way is very interesting)

When David was explaining his video he said that he was so proud of the kids that came up to him because they asked questions. They didn't just accept something for what it was. They became curious and decided to ask questions about the crazy world we live in.

Well David, I decided to do that a long time ago with a specific word and a specific group of people. (And if you don't know what that is by now, you came in a little late)

About 4 years ago, I was in the gym playing dodge ball when I realized that there were a group of kids in the gym that weren't like the rest of us. And, no one was playing with them. Taking it upon myself to be the outgoing person that I always have been, I walk up to them and introduce myself and am instantly aware that these kids aren't like me. No, they are part of the Special Ed class.

I then start to wonder why I am the only one interacting with these kids...was there something wrong with them? Were they the kids that my parents told me to stay away from because they might have smallpox or lice? No...they were just different. They weren't normal. So, naturally, they stayed with their group and we stayed with ours.

Until, at least, I decided that I wanted to question authority and do something about this.

That same afternoon I wrote a note to my Principal asking if I could use my remediation block helping with this classroom. She was shocked because no one had asked to do this as was the teacher of the classroom, but I was welcomed with open arms. Literally.

I walked into this classroom the first day and saw these kids that were my age or younger and yet were so much different. They didn't judge me because I wasn't the most popular kid in school, they didn't judge me based on the clothes I was wearing...they were just open to whatever happened and the person I was.

After meeting and getting to know these amazing kids and how much they loved life I started realizing how much the word "retarded" is used in a negative way. And, honestly, kids my age are the worst offenders but it is moving to younger adults and even adults in their 30's. I was guilty of this as well, until I realized that being retarded isn't really a bad thing. But, generally when we call someone retarded or say someone's actions are retarded it is because they are acting stupid. They aren't doing something right, or they something wrong, or they forget something they should have known...things that can be controlled. This is very different from being mentally retarded.

Words like stupid, idiot, moron, and many others are associated with the word retard now. And it's our own faults that we let it happen. Those words though, aren't supposed to be synonyms for retarded. They used to have a very deep meaning in music meaning to slow or impede. But it's used for a lot more than that now.

Instead of just standing there and avoiding the problem like the people did in the mall David, I took a stand against it. You might think it's wrong. You might think it's completely idiotic. But the thing is, I don't care. I took a stand for something. I asked questions. I didn't just stand there while some guy stood in a mall reading a book with a sign. I didn't avoid the problem. I attacked it head on.

You might think that I'm just very sensitive about "a word." But it's not just a word to me. It's the meaning that we have given the word that simply isn't true. You might not have meant it in a negative way, but it wasn't meant as a personal attack on you. Just a reminder of the misuse of this word.

You are right, we do have the Freedom Of Speech in this country. However, the men that fought for this freedom might not have meant for their hard work and killed friends and family to have fought for something that most people take for advantage these days. I certainly don't mind you asserting your point of view. But at the same time, I want my point of view to be heard as well.

Maybe this will make a little more sense. And, if not, at least I tried and didn't avoid the different looking guy in the gym that day because he was something different that I wasn't used to.

***Argument about the Texas thing will be in a different one. This needed to be said first.***

Poor Cameon? Yeah...right.

2009-04-06T23:03:00.004-05:00

Well, David posted a reply to my blog that I wrote in response to his original blog. I'm aware this was several weeks ago but I wanted to take some time and cool down before I wrote an article about it so that I can attack every point logically without anger.

Unfortunately, I have a short temper with people that like to repeat things in hope that they make themselves sound correct, when in reality it just makes my job easier. And I like challenging things.

With that being said.

David thought it would be cute to attack my knowledge of the subject with a vocabulary lesson. And, apparently, retard means to cause to move or proceed slowly; delay or impede. Which, evidently I was unaware of, even though he got that information from my website and his extensive musical knowledge.

And David was right, (nice copy and pasting there). Retard does mean to slow, delay or impede something. However, I still stand by in saying that you calling the people in Texas retarded is offensive to those that actually have relatives that are mentally retarded.

He brings up the point about how if I think of mentally challenged people when I hear the word retarded, that's my problem. And he's right, although I don't consider it a problem. I consider it a privilege to fight for these kids and what they represent.

These kids represent something that you will never be able to David. And that is the love for everything. That is the ability to love unconditionally, no matter their opinion. That is their ability to take what life has given them, and still believe that they can do absolutely anything. It is their ability to be thankful for truly smallest things in life, that we all overlook everyday.

**A quote from David's blog: "I stand by calling Texas retarded. And they are acting retarded still."**

You say retarded as if it's a bad thing, but does it sound like these kids are so bad off to you? Most definitely not. So yes David, I do get offended when you say that these people in Texas are retarded. Not because of the people in Texas, but because of the negative connotation you gave the word. Because of your lack of understanding to the word.

If, you had said for instance, that Texas imposing these ideals would retard the children of the school systems, that would have been something entirely different. But you didn't. You wrote the first thing that came to mind. Just calling the people retarded. After all, being "politically correct," doesn't mean anything. In fact, I don't care about political correctness. I do care about the fact that you don't know how to use a verb correctly.

David keeps going on with making himself like an illiterate human being that doesn't seem to understand the concept of letting everyone have their own views towards things.

I could argue about the fact that it seems as if you would only like your idea of evolution taught in schools because that is what you believe. (David is an atheist) Well, David, why not teaching the children all of the things that could have happened and then let them choose on their own? Why don't you stop trying to take God out of discussions, and start putting things like him and evolution into discussions more instead of being so focused on your one way that it could have happened.

Why don't we allow the future generations to believe in whatever they choose to believe? Why don't we allow them to choose for themselves after being given all of the information? "BUT THAT WOULD BE LOGICAL CAMEON! WHY WOULD WE DO THAT?!"

Here's why.

When you squash things that have been taught for years to come, you squash a lot more than what you have been promoting. When you take things out because you think it's right, you are squashing the ability for future generations to think on their own and make their own decisions. We are making a class of "Stepford Wives" that think just like the kid next to them because they are taught that is the only way.

I'm all up for evolution and God. Some people believe that the things that happen are too complex to just have fallen into place. Some people believe that every single little tiny detail and things that have to go right for a baby to grow inside a mother's stomach, are too complex to just have fallen into place. That is their belief system.

You believe yours. Let them have a chance to form their own. Maybe one day, they will get on here and school you on how you will be wrong.

Your response? "But little girl, you are basing this off of a repulsive book that was written my some mad guy over several years."

I, for one, hope she can slaughter you with information to prove you wrong about every single one of your arguments. And, if she uses that "repulsive" piece of literature correctly and doesn't give up, she will be able to.

Joe Nichols More CMT Music More CMT Music Videos

Dear Zero, GROW UP!

2009-03-25T08:42:00.003-05:00

For anyone that keeps up with my blog, you've probably noticed that Zero and I blog against each other quite a lot. We are both very opinionated people with very different views...which makes for interesting debates. Not to mention, we are both intelligent people...or so I thought, which makes for debates where the light bulb actually turns on every now and then. However, I think it's time that Zero get a dictionary because it seems he has taken a specific word and turned it into something that it is definitely not.

I encourage you to first read his blog here. OK, now that you've read that, let's begin.

Dear Zero,

Maybe somewhere along the line someone dropped you on your head or did something else to make you think that the word retarded has the connotation of being a bad thing. I would hope something like that happened because otherwise, you just look stupid by using it in the wrong way.

I'm also guessing you don't know anyone that is mentally challenged, retarded, slow, or any other synonym because if you did, you would also know that the word retarded does not mean what you think it means apparently.

By definition, retarded means: To cause to move or proceed slowly; delay or impede. Hum...that doesn't sound like the people you are referring to at all. Your welcome to think that those people making the decision are stupid, dumb, inconsiderate, and the list could go on. However, you are not welcome to call them retarded because they are not.

Retarded people have a mental illness that prohibits them from doing things that you and I take for granted everyday such as talking, walking, being in line with our emotions, growing up physically and mentally at the same rate, controlling our bodily functions, being able to form a sentence, being able to understand when someone is doing something they shouldn't be doing and many more.

Stupid people have the capability to make good decisions. The problem is that they just don't. Stupid people have the capability to do anything, but they are too lazy, don't care, or think they've made a right decision when they really haven't. They are more worried about American Idol than the real issues. They are more worried about their basketball bracket than the economy issues. They just don't care period.

You, Zero, have made a terrible error in your vocabulary. Anyone that has a relative or friend that is, in fact, retarded takes offense when you use that word in a derogatory way because it's not a bad thing. It just means they are different than regular people. And, even though they are different, they are some of the nicest, most loving people you will ever meet in your life. Different is OK contrary to popular belief.

And speaking of being different, what makes Texas stupid for wanting to eliminate evolution from the textbooks? Isn't it the same as banning teachers from talking about God or not having "One Nation Under God" in the Pledge Of Allegiance? You seem to be perfectly fine with people doing those things because it comforts your little belief system. But when someone attacks what you think is true, you get your drawers in a wad. There's something wrong with that isn't there?

In my opinions, neither one of them should be eliminated. Students should learn about both of them and then have the opportunity to choose which one they think really happened. That way, you are giving kids the opportunity to think for themselves. Which is something that is highly lacking in today's society.

Just because someone doesn't think they same way you do or believe in the same things you do, doesn't mean they are stupid. And it definitely doesn't mean they are retarded. Debate with that person. Make it known that you disagree. But what makes you right and them wrong? What makes you intelligent and them stupid? What gives you the right to say that someone else is completely wrong and must be retarded for thinking that?

I'll give you a hint...your answer should not be, "Because I Said So."

Sexism, Racism, and Ageism?

2009-03-23T20:40:00.001-05:00

I know for those that are reading this you are wondering what the heck "ageism" is. Well...let me explain.

Ageism is by no other definition, being afraid or judging someone based purely on their age without knowing anything else about the person. You won't find this word in the dictionary (or at least I don't think you will) because I just made it up. I figured though, that if badonkadonk is a word used by Webster, surely ageism could be. Especially when it seems to be such a large issue.

I have always been mature for my age physically and mentally. People thought I was 4 when I was 2 and 21 when I'm only 17. I am the definition of 13 Going On 30 except in a different way. My friends joke that I am a twenty something year old in a teenagers body. Except not even that. Ok...get my point?

Not too long ago, I began writing on this site called BleacherReport. It's a site where a bunch of people (mainly men) go and write about sports. Very cool site. I have gotten a lot of comments and compliments on the site. But it took a while to get those. At first, people would read my article, and then apparently go back to my profile, realize I was 17, and then go back and comment on how young I was but how amazing the piece of work was. I got sick of people saying something about my age. Even if it was a compliment. Why? Because age isn't everything.

I work at Bama Fever and my coworkers would laugh at the older guys that would come in there and hit on me. Some of them even in their late twenties or early thirties. They all got a laugh when they saw the poor guy's facial expression when he was told that I was just 17. Poor guys...they had no idea. But when they did realize how old I was...out the door they went. The conversation that had just taken place was completely thrown out the window...because of my age.
Ageism striked again when I went to join an online community that a friend of mine mentioned to me. He mentioned that it was a group of guys that did say some foul words but that ultimately, it was a good group of people. I went to join and was a member for maybe three hours. This "unmoderated site with no rules" had decided to revoke my membership because of my age. I got a little peeved...and here's why.

One of the guys from the site sent me and email which you can find here. I obviously had to tell this guy what I thought. It was nothing against him. But you can find it here. He then sent one back which you can read by clicking here. This is my response to his last email and really all the people that seem to think it's ok to judge people based on their age alone.

First off, Tim says that he won't argue my points because I'm exactly right, but then goes on to argue them anyway. Apparently seeing things in extreme situations helps people to see things and then he uses an example of a 10 year old attending a sex show. He then points out that obviously I am not the 10 year old and that their board isn't a sex show..but this example proves a point because it seems to be the middle ground. So here's my point.

At 17, I am able to attend R rated movies. R rated movies these days can contain and usually do contain nudity, sex scenes, profanity, naughty jokes, and violence. Now, if this board is worse than an 'R' rated movie maybe there should be some moderating going on. Maybe, these people would feel bad about me seeing this kind of thing because they are slightly ashamed at the kinds of things that go on there themselves.

These people seem to think it is their responsibilty to shield me from life. But here's the deal and maybe it is something that they need to understand. When you shield and "moderate" people from everyday life then when can they learn who they are and the person they want to become? How can they learn to be someone they want to be? How can they learn what is right and wrong? What is unacceptable and what is?

Not only that, but who gives these people the right to judge me based on my age? I'm 17, yes. But ask anyone, and you will quickly find that I don't act like I'm 17. As a society, we seem to be so caught up on issues like age, race, and gender. We forget about actually getting to know the person and letting them have a chance. We think that because someone is 17, they automatically have to be like every other 17 year old. We think that because someone is female, they automatically don't know anything except for things dealing with shoes, clothes, and drama. We think that because someone is african american, they automatically don't have motive except to receive welfare.

We are so quick to judge. And yet, we tell people that they shouldn't. That makes you hypocritical. It makes everyone hypocritical. And there is so much of it, that I'm afraid we are going to dig ourselves into a hole so deep that we will never be able to get out of it.

And now, I'm receiving an invitation to join this group. I guess the guilt finally hit all of these people about the slippery slope that they would eventually slide down. And yet, there are still those that are wanting to question my parents and what they allow me to see. To all the people on that site...my parents are fully aware of those things because I am close with my parents. Again, you don't know me or them so what are you judging me based on?

Tim's Counter Rebutal

2009-03-23T15:10:00.001-05:00

Your first sentence made me laugh.

I'm not going to even try to argue with you because you're right. The truth is that we (CTF Group) are guilty of making a decision based solely on your age. I wouldn't call that "judging" someone though, just a decision based on the facts at hand. Okay, maybe that's judging. Where's my dictionary? Oh well. Let's move on.

Sometimes it's easier to look at a situation by looking at the extremes. If a 10 year old child wanted to visit a live sex show and it was your decision whether or not to allow the child to visit, would you allow it? Given just that information, my answer would be 'no' and I hope your's would be too. I can't imagine any circumstances that would lead me to answer 'yes' to that question. The 10 year old is simply not mentally mature enough to handle such.

You are not 10 years old and CTF is not a live sex show (at least not yet), but looking at the extremes brings the middle ground into clearer focus. You ARE the middle ground, at least in the minds of the folks on CTF.

You touched on so many of the issues that have been bought up in the past day, particularly the slippery slope idea. I want to quote for you a couple of threads that occurred on the group regarding your situation so that you can see what I'm talking about.

This first one is an exchange that went on between three people. I'm taking there names off, because that's just the way I am. You've got to read from the bottom up.

--quote--
On Mon, Mar 16, 2009 at 8:49 PM, :
Yabbut, when some idot invites them, I would feel a little guilty. I don'tlike feeling guilty.
- Hide quoted text -

----- Original Message -----From:To: <crimsontidefans@googlegroups.com>Sent: Monday, March 16, 2009 7:12 PMSubject: RE: So here's whut I'll tell her...>> My point exactly. WE shouldn't need rules to protect THEM - that's their> parents job. Finally, someone gets it.>> >>> -----Original Message----->> From: >> Sent: Monday, March 16, 2009 2:42 PM>> To: crimsontidefans@googlegroups.com>> Subject: Re: So here's whut I'll tell her...>>>>>>>> If one of 'em finds us by accident, and they jump right in, or get all>> flustered at the forum, then maybe their parents aren't watching their>> child's online activity enough.>>
--endquote--

Next is from a guy who has been arguing vehemently in your defense. The slippery slope. This post happened before the ones above.

--quote--
On Mon, Mar 16, 2009 at 11:11 AM, xxxx wrote:
Okay, I'm wrong. So tell me, Decider-For-All-Of-Us [since we don't havemoderators, and you need a title if you are going to make the decisions]what is our age limit?18 [old enough to elect a president and die in a war]? No wait, we talkabout alcohol a lot...So, maybe 21 [old enough to drink in the US]? Of course, I know some veryimmature and innocent 21-year-olds...way more immature than this girl is[based on her blog].Maybe we better make it 25 to be on the safe side - we want to make sure themodera^H^H^H^H^H Decider-For-All-Of-Us is comfortable with the cutoff.

You can dress it up and slap lipstick on it, but it is still being amoderator. I don't really care which way you decide, but stop smuglytelling yourself there is no moderator and no rules on this list if youdecide to ax her because *you* are uncomfortable. If the decision to stayor leave is not hers, then the decision is, de-facto, moderated.

I'm trying to decide if I should point out the obvious solution...ok, I'llsuck it up [although I've enjoyed this whole moderator discussion]]. She'sstill legally a minor; get her parent or guardian to join for a week and letthem decide if she can join. No moderator, no Decider-For-All-Of-Us, andstill no rules. And let's face it, her guardian knows best what she isready for (and if he is her father there is no way in hell he lets herjoin!).
--endquote--

I hope you can see that this is not an easy thing. It's a good thing, makes everybody think. Most good things are not easy things.

Have a good day and Roll Tide!

My Response To Tim

2009-03-23T15:05:00.003-05:00

Tim,

The first few words of your email made me think I was the new subject of the next horror movie. Ha. If you would like to add my email feel free to do that. I think Larry is more blind sided by something else going on.

I read your email, and would just like to say that for a site "that doesn't judge people based on their age," it sure sounded like it even from the explanation you provided in your email. My joining did cause a discussion because I got the emails up until a point. You couldn't have had a discussion about me simply because of the fact that none of you know me. (Larry might know a little but he would be the only one). I understand being in a group where there are no barriers. I also understand being free spirits...but your group, Mr. Tim, is not a free spirited group if you base a decision on someone's age.

I'm curious to know if there are is no moderation and no rules how it was made that apparently you have to be 18 to get in. That sounds like a rule or moderation to me. I understand the language part. I understand the posting part. All of this I understand. I also understand wanting to protect your children. The thing is, I'm not a child. At 17, when you have lost four family members within the year, lost 5 friends in a car accident that were all fatal, lost 3 friends in Iraq, and had to overcome all the evil in the world to prove that you are a good person and not like the others, you come out a 25 year old in a 17 year old body. Actually, not even that. Ha.

If you turn down a die hard Bama fan because of his of her age then what comes next? Not allowing someone in because of their gender? What would you blame that reasoning on then? The fact that you have a mother and you wouldn't want her to be exposed to such things so she's not allowed in either. Guys club only?

I won't get into the age 18 become an adult thing because that is a completely different discussion. One that would require more brain power than I am currently able to give.

I'm sorry, but I highly disagree with the decision from this group. I will continue to. And being accepted doesn't mean a damn thing to me actually. It was based purely on the fact of my age. With no reguard to anything else. To hell with logic and passion, it's all about the stereotypes today. And now, if it is argued about further, it will be because some people want it and some don't. I like to join in places where I am welcome. Otherwise, it's a waste of my time and effort. I'll take my "childish" thoughts, opinions, and writing ability somewhere else if it's all the same to the "no rule" community that you affiluate yourself with. I'm an opinionated person. I have to stand up for myself in this world or people would run over me. I'm an attractive girl that happens to be madly in love with Alabama Football. Not to mention, every other sport. I also love politics and debate in general. I have to overcome sterotypes all the time. It's something I've learned to do.

My birthday is 10/31/1991. Yes, it's Halloween. And yes, it's the same as Nick Saban's. (He was born on October 31, 1951 in West Virginia). I'll be 18 then. Old enough to vote, join the army, and get a tatto or body piercing without my parent's consent. But not old enough to be taken seriously in this world.

Thanks for contacting me. Please realize that I do appreciate someone from that "community" contacting me. Also, thank you for the kind words about my writing on both B/R and my site. If you would like to post this for the other members to see feel free to do so, and also feel free to include my email.

Roll Tide,
Cameon

Initial Email From Group Member

2009-03-23T15:04:00.000-05:00

Cameon,

You don't know me, but I'm one of the folks on the Crimson Tide Fans Group on Google Groups. Larry posted your response to him and the big dummy didn't redact your e-mail address, so I took it upon myself to contact you. I hope you don't mind. I'm copying Larry on this too.

I looked you up on Bleacher Report and from there followed the link to your blog. You are a very impressive person.

You mentioned that you didn't have any interest in being on a site that judges people based on their age. I can certainly understand that but I want to take a moment to let you know that really is not the case. Your prospective membership caused quite a discussion amongst our group, but NONE of it had to do with judging you or anything of the like. The group consist of a bunch of free spirits that gravitated to it after being in many other groups that have rules that consist of the very judgment that we all detest. We are not the least bit judgmental, but most of the members have children and we use language and talk in a manner that none of us would in public or around children. You are 17. Not exactly a child. We realize that. We were founded on the principle of no moderation, no rules, anything goes. We've never turned down a member unless it was an obvious spammer. Now we have this situation where after bitching at each other about for the last 24 hours, we have turned down a true died in the wool Bama fan for no good reason other than their age. It doesn't sit well with any of us, but it's the parental instinct that led to it and believe me, it's not over. Some folks aren't happy with it including me. I'm one of the most opinionated folks on the group and I'm an official "fence straddler" on this issue. I'm conflicted.

Anyway, we decided that this fantastic society in which we live has determined in it's infinte wisdom that when you turn 18, all the spoils of adulthood (save the consumption of distilled spirits - WTF?!?!) is bestowed upon you. Whoopy! Therefore, at that point we wish to welcome you with open arms. It's arbitrary as hell I know, but I guess it's some sort of compomise.

Would you be willing to give us a try then? I can understand if not, but I hope so. Slip me your birthday and I will personally send you the invite.

I hope you don't hate us too bad.

Roll Tide!

Tim Boozer

PS You and I share a little bit of scholastic history. I attended both Shades Valley and JCIB, only way back in the stone ages, JCIB was in it's infancy and known as RLC (Resource Learning Center). Of course SVHS was not in it's present location either. Times change.

Technology Will Take Over The World

2009-03-03T16:43:00.004-06:00

So, David posted this in a blog talking about his lack of belief in God but instead about his thoughts about what humans can achieve.

He got this from a lady named Jan who talked about how God had blessed the world with all of these amazing gifts.

I'm posting this because I think they have both overlooked something VERY important!

In 10 years or so, computers will be doing everything. In 10 years or so, computers will be telling us what to think, what to wear, what to eat, calculating our finances...But wait, aren't they already doing all those things?

Not to long ago, I sat in a fourth grade class and helped these students with their math problems. They were learning long division and I was trying to help them. When asked what 30-10 was he simply looked at me and said "Hold on and I'll put it in the calculator."

I was flabbergasted.

The calculator? It was 30-10. The answer was 20. You carry down the 0 and subtract 1 from 3 and BAM you have an answer. But this little boy plugged it into the calculator while I tried to place myself back on the chair that I had fallen off of.

But then I got to thinking...these kids and I were roughly 6 years apart in age at the time. 6years. Not that great of a distance...except for the simple fact that I could drive and they were learning long division. I never understood the distance until I realized that teachers weren't teaching long hand anymore. Why should they when it can all be plugged into a calculator?

The technology is amazing true. What is more amazing is the kids that are learning how to use it. I babysit and continue to be amazed at how these 5, 6, and 7 year olds know full well how to program their television to what they would like to watch. They are all about the video games and the DVD player...and I'm fainting in the floor as I watch all this take place.

But what good are we doing our kids by not teaching them long hand and by letting everything be technology. Especially when something happens to all that technology. One day, your finances will be completely controlled by a computer. There will be no paper records.

What happens when those computers break?

What happens when everything collapses?

What happens when one huge virus (generated by those same kids that are geniuses at the DVD players no doubt) wipes everything out?

I'll tell you. Everything is gone. And everyone will run amok. Everything and everyone will run around in a frantic panic questioning what to do and trying to find some technological device that can calculate the price of a cheeseburger and a fry and add tax. OH THE HORROR!

While Jan and David are talking about God or the non existence of God I would rather focus on technology and what will happen when it all comes crashing down around us...

The Girl Of Many Hats

Unspoken Words

It’s A Lifestyle Change…Not A Diet

agnbnfs;’nXznzZBF[BDFKBDDbfzlds slhj isdetyu5ow65n

*tap tap* Is This Thing On?

I’m Coming Home and Day 2

30 Day Challenge: Day 1

Mom’s Words Taken To Heart

The Things I Couldn’t Say

Holiday Season

Pour Your Heart Out Wednesday: “Choose Your Identity”

Assignment 4- CAT 200

Thoughtful Thursday

Pour Your Heart Out- Questions That Haunt Me

The Little Things

Just Friends

Tis The Season To Be Jolly

Cough, Cough, Sniff, Cough

That Person In The Mirror

Revelations

The Process

Uplifting By Post-Its

A Dozen Roses

Inspiration & A Little Insecurity

The Glitz, The Glam, and The Fashion

What Do You Want…

Everybody Goes To “Milo’s”…

Busy…and loving it

A New Challange

You Can't Teach An Old Dog New Tricks

Operation Beautiful In Action

Chemistry Class: What They Didn't Tell Me

Assignment #3 For CAT 200

Raisin' Em Right--A Day Of Firsts

Dear Facebook, I Can't Reconnect With Him

Objectifying Women: What Is Too Far?

Assignment #1 For CAT 200 Class

Behind Every Graduate…

Lifting Up Ellie

The Perfect Catch

Perfection

Dear University Of Alabama Baseball,

Taking The Leap Of Faith In Faith

Any Other Day Rain Would Be Fine

When You Realize That You Don’t Know A Thing

Between A Dark Cloud And Sunshine, With A Rainbow Connecting The Two Worlds

The Melody of Rain

Book of Life

Looks Like Cupid Came Early For The Bama Chick: Alabama vs. Arkansas

Sports: The Duck Tape of the World

An Unexpected Reminder

Alabama Basketball: The Younger Sibling To Alabama Football

Question: Please describe something that changed your life, in a good or bad way

The Calm After The Storm

Topic 4: Tell us about something that fascinated you, something that you are amazed and intrigued by, and tell us why.

This Just In: Adam Lambert Is Gay (GASP)

A Life Or Death Situation: How Far Would You Go To Help A Rival?

On To Something Serious

Grace In Small Things

When Your Parents Are Right

A Car Ride That Could Change Things

Why? I'll Tell You Why? Our Liberal Media

And Hopefully This Will Ring Bells To David...

Poor Cameon? Yeah...right.

Dear Zero, GROW UP!

Sexism, Racism, and Ageism?

Tim's Counter Rebutal

My Response To Tim

Initial Email From Group Member

Technology Will Take Over The World

tap tap Is This Thing On?