Thursday Thawing

Today is Thursday.  But the events of the day can't be found on my Cozi calendar.  This is not a typical day.  Today, many businesses are closed.  Additionally, several schools are closed across the state of Alabama.  You see, Tuesday, the South was taken by surprise when a huge winter storm came our way.  What was forecast as a "light" dusting of snow turned out to be what so many have deemed, the Snowpocalypse.

Hundreds of motorists were stuck in their cars overnight as they frantically raced to pick up loved ones from schools, daycares, and other locations.  One of my friends spent the night in her car because what started out as a routine drive home from work quickly transformed into an unsolicited invitation to a gridlocked interstate.  And, two days later, some people are still waiting to wake up from this nightmare. 

Instead of pointing fingers, as so many people have chosen to do.  I instead want to take a moment to thank God for keeping my friends and family safe.  I spent much of Tuesday and Wednesday calling and texting to check on friends and family members. Despite their circumstances, everyone I talked to was in good spirits.  I am thankful to be surrounded by such positive people of faith. 

Now that I know that everyone is safe, warm, and reconnected with their loved ones, I can now look out on the white blanket of snow that covers my lawn and smile.  It's not very often that we see snow here in Alabama! 

Why I Love Living in Alabama

For thirty something years, Alabama has been my home.  When I try to think of the reasons I love living here, so many things come to mind.  But somehow, I was able to narrow my absolute favorite reasons to these:

1.  The Beaches - Alabama is home to some of the most beautiful white-sand beaches!  My favorite getaway place is the beach and living in Alabama makes it easy to take a quick beach trip at a moment's notice. 

 

2.  The Colleges - There are over 60 colleges in the state of Alabama.  I love that our student have so many choices for post-secondary studies right in their own back doors!

Well of course I was going to choose my Alma Mater for the pic. War Eagle!

3.  The Food.  Alabama proudly boasts being home to numerous award-winning restaurants that serve the finest (and tastiest) southern cuisine!  You can check the calendar at just about any given month and find a food festival of some sort going on somewhere in the state.  From crawfish boils and shrimp festivals to barbecue cook offs and pie contests, Alabama is the place to be for some good cooking and eating!

 

4.  The History.  It is an honor to live in a place that is so rich in history.  I've lived in Alabama my entire life and I'm still learning the historical value of this great state.  One year of Alabama History in grade school is surely not enough to educate yourself on all the figures and events that shape and mold who Alabama is today.  

Old pic traveling in from vacation.

 

 5. The gardening.  I know that I don't have a green thumb, but on the surface, no one can tell!  Growing a garden in rich Alabama soil coupled with the perfect Alabama weather makes even the novice gardener appear to be Farmer John's niece! 

My raised-bed garden. 

These are just a few of the many reasons I love calling Alabama home!  What do you love about where you live?

Getting to Know You: A Linkup with AWB!

When the thought of blogging first began to tickle my fancy, I was really nervous.  I also lacked confidence that my blog would attract readers.  Now, over 1,500 views later, I'm building my blog confidence.  (My blog is just over one month old.)

With the help of my friends and the support of Alabama Women Bloggers, my blog is slowly gaining the momentum it needs to help me secure a spot in the blog world.  Thanks AWB!!

Today, I'm doing a "self-interview" link-up post in connection with AWB.  So read ahead to find out more about me.  Also, you can click on the button below to find out more about some of your other favorite women bloggers who call Alabama home!

1. What part of the state do you call home?


I'm a native of Talladega.  But, Pell City has been my home for the last 10 years.

2. How long have you been blogging?


I have been blogging for almost two months.

3. Why did you start blogging?


I fell in love with my friend's blog, Hems for Her.  She encouraged me to give blogging a try.  Since I love writing, I figured I'd give it a shot!

4. What is your favorite part of being a member of the Alabama Women Bloggers community?


I love the support that the AWB community provides.  It's so encouraging.  I also like reading all of the different blogs.  There are so many talented women bloggers in Alabama!

5. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?


In five years I'll have much more time on my hands, but less money in my pocket.  My kids will be driving, which means they'll probably want to spend less time with me and want more of my money for gas and fun!  LOL

6. If you could choose an actress to play you in your life, who would you choose and why?


Angela Bassett, duh.  She's almost as hot as I am!!  (In my dreams, anyway.)

7. Name 5 things on your Bucket List that you hope you’ll check off before you die?


-Learn to play the piano WELL (I dabble, but nothing major.  I need more lessons.)

-Meet and hang out with Oprah Winfrey!  (I've been a fan since I was about 11!)

-Vacation in Bora Bora (And stay EXACTLY where they stayed in the movie "Couples Retreat")

-Go skiing (I'd have to learn first)

-Go sky diving (Not really, but everyone puts that on their Bucket List, so what the heck?)

8. If you could be known for one thing, what would it be and why?


Being a great teacher.

9. Describe the best moment in your life.

I have two best moments in life:  the day that I became Jordan's mother and the day that I became Kaylen's mother.  Best moments in life.  No doubt.

10. If you could “be” anything (no consequences, no fear), what would you “be”?


That's a tough one.  I think I'd be a travel agent so that I could travel the world and then help people plan exciting vacations!

11. What or who inspires you to blog?


My life inspires my blog.  I blog about things that I experience.

12. We’re headed to your neck of the woods… what restaurant would you recommend?


The Tavern of St. Clair.  It's a quaint little family owned casual-dining restaurant and pub.  The Hubs and I are regulars there.  We went there the other night for a birthday dinner and one of the waitresses hugged me.  If you're there, I highly recommend the Ribeye Ravioli.

13. What’s a southern tradition you and your family have?


Big Thanksgiving meals.

14. If you could pick your favorite blog post from your blog this year, what would it be?


My very first blog post.  I will never forget the fear that I felt when I clicked the "publish" button.  I am proud of myself for having the courage to do something different.  Here's the link:

Introducing...ME!!!

15. We all love social media, tell us your links so we can follow you!

Click on these buttons to find me:



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