Hey everyone!

A lot has been happening to me recently; a lot of good. First of all, I am no longer working at Hastings. Last week was my first week at the Family Christian Store and I LOVE it! It's so much fun and the people are great. The atmosphere is so much more "me" than it was at Hastings. There has been a of speculation as to why I quit. It wasn't really the money. Money only played a VERY small role in why I left. I just got fed up with selling Porn and other items, and I almost felt ashamed to do so. That is the truth: it was just no longer the right place for me. I never imagined I would lose some of my "friends" from Hastings just because I quit, so to everyone who has supported me and remained my friend, THANK YOU! I look forward to keeping in contact with you.

I also now have a little sister through "Big Brothers, Big Sisters." Her name is Destiny, and she is one of the BEST things that has ever happened to me. She's eleven years old, and we share many interests. Like myself, she is a STRONG Christian and an avid reader. She loves to sing, as do I. She also loves chasing Lizards. I've honestly never done so in my life, haha, but I'm looking forward to spending some quality time with her and who knows? Maybe it'll become one of my favorite things to do! :) Her mother, Sherri, will also be a huge part of my life and she truly cares about Destiny. They've both been through so much; more than anybody should ever have to go through, but I feel so amazingly blessed to get to have them in my life at this point. I can only grow stronger in character. I couldn't have asked for a better "match."

Last night, I found out that I am going to be granting my first wish for the "Make-A-Wish Foundation" soon. It will be in about two weeks because the girl is in Albuquerque recovering from treatment for a Chronic Kidney Disease. She's thirteen years old, and I will be contacting her family soon to quickly earn her trust and get her to confide in me. What she will confide will be perhaps the most important decision she'll ever make. One wish. Sky's the limit. I look forward to meeting her.

On that note, I just want to take a quick moment and explain how I'll survive being in this kind of atmosphere. I cannot imagine how bad it's going to hurt to get involved with children, think the world of them, and have the chance that they will die. BUT, where would the "Make-A-Wish Foundation" be without eir volunteers? Yes, it will be hard. It WILL be emotional; I'm sure I will shed many tears: tears of sorrow and tears of joy. But, I also want to be there for the parents. How hard would it be for a parent to have a sick child? How hard would it be if that child didn't get better and that parent had to bury them? Sure, I have my doubts. How will I stay strong when facing a child who is struggling to live? It seems like such an injustice, but what would I do and how would I feel if I was that parent? I would want someone to help my child. And, how exciting would it be to see that child's face light up as their BIGGEST wish in the world gets granted! That's what gives me strength: knowing that I will be making a difference in a life that desperately needs it. God will give me the strength and courage I will need to face whatever lies in store for me. It's bound to be one memorable ride.

What a perfect time of year to really be getting involved with these individuals, especially around Thanksgiving! I mean, I have always been extremely thankful for everything I have when it comes to Thanksgiving and Christmas, but this year I know I will have MORE to be thankful for and that's something to rejoice in!

I have also been exclusively invited to join another blog tour! This tour is to promote the book, "For Parents Only," by Shaunti Feldhahn and Lisa Rice during the week of November 26-30th. How these blogs have changed my life!

I hope everyone is doing well and staying warm! :) Best wishes for a happy and safe holiday season!

--Kathy

"The Prayer of St. Francis" (My life goal)

Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace

Where there is hatred, let me sow love

Where there is injury, pardon

Where there is doubt, faith

Where there is despair, hope

Where there is darkness, light

Where there is sorrow, joy

Oh Divine Master, grant that I may

Not so much seek to be consoled as to console

To be understood, as to understand

To be loved, as to love

For it's in giving that we receive

And it's in pardoning that we are pardoned

And it's in dying that we are born into Eternal Life

Amen.

I Will Remember You
As I pull away from the gates of our local cemetery, I can't help but get an eerie feeling that a life that was once so vital to my own is gone. It has been nearly three years, but it feels like yesterday when this remarkable individual came into the lives of my family and I, changing them forever. The morals, lessons, and values that have been instilled in me because of this experience are extraordinary.
I remember being ten years old when my family first met Sandy by chance, but because of this chance, I am a firm believer in everything happening for a reason. At first, I couldn't see this reason, and looking back, I don't think I was supposed to; some things are just meant to be and I can't imagine what my life would have been like if it hadn't been for Sandy. My family's relationship with Sandy all started because of my parents and their generous hearts.
From the very beginning, we knew that Sandy was ill with COPD (a combination of asthma and emphysema.) She did not want to live anymore because at times she couldn't breathe, but mainly because life was lonely for her, and even though some of her family members lived just up the street from her, they rarely visited. So my family, particularly my mom and sister, would go visit her or bring her a meal. It really made me see my mom in a different light, and my sister too. I was fortunate enough to be able to bear witness to how giving and selfless others can be, and what instant gratification truly does mean.
Sandy's inspiration mainly came from her spiritual beliefs. Like my family, she was a Baptist as far as religion goes and her faith in God was amazing. She always praised Him throughout the course of her illness, and she was so sure that He was going to give her a miracle. She never gave up on her beliefs and she was never bitter. The Bible was her daily guide to life, and there wasn't one day that went by that she didn't pick it up to read. Not only did she read it, she would study it and apply it to her everyday life.
Some of my life's richest joys came through experiences shared with Sandy. One year, around Christmas, Sandy finally decided to spend some of the money she had been saving for a new bed. Her old one, a twin-sized bed, had a crease in the middle and was terribly uncomfortable, but being one to rarely complain, she lived with it. After she bought the new one, she asked my dad to take the old mattress to the Salvation Army and he did. However, when he arrived at the Salvation Army, they didn't want the mattress, but they said they'd take the frame. My dad told them no, and was just about to put the mattress back into the car when he was approached by a man with two little boys.
"Excuse me sir, but I just happened to notice that mattress you have there, and I wondered if anyone was going to take it. I know a family that could benefit from it, so if you don't have somebody in mind to take it, can I have it?" The man asked.
"You are more-than-welcome to take the mattress." My dad replied and helped the man tie the mattress and frame onto the top of their station wagon.
As my dad and the man were both getting ready to pull away, my dad overheard one of the little boys say, "Daddy! We are actually going to have a bed to sleep on tonight."
Upon hearing this story, everyone was touched, but especially Sandy for it had been her bed, and any time someone asked about the story, she could never re-tell it without breaking into tears. That's how kindhearted she was; so much empathy for others.
After I heard that story, my attitude about life changed greatly. I began to realize all of the many blessings I have that I take for granted and ever since this, I have always been inspired and challenged to help others in any way, shape, or form I can.
I also gained a great amount of insight about my mom, dad, and sister through watching how much each of them meant to Sandy. My mom, for instance, was nothing short of Sandy's angel-on-earth. After about three years or so of just being the friend who would bring meals and come to visit, my mom became Sandy's caregiver through Basin Home Health. She was responsible for Sandy's well-being and she was so wonderful at it. There just aren't enough words to describe how much my mom meant to Sandy and vice-versa, but I gained a new perspective on friendship and what it means to be so selfless in the sense that you place somebody else's wants and needs above your own. The amount of dedication my mom had to Sandy was unbelievable and I learned what it means to follow through with every promise made and its importance.
My sister, Michelle, literally kept Sandy young. To Michelle, Sandy was her best friend; she looked up to her for guidance and support. When Sandy was staying with us at our home, Michelle would sleep on the couch in the den next to Sandy's bed and the two of them would have "camp-outs" and they'd pretend they were having campfires and such. Sandy was given a reason to use her imagination and the two of them shared something so rare.
My dad was one of the only men in Sandy's life whom she could trust. In her past, she had been physically abused by her husband, so meeting my dad turned her life around. She admired him for the man he is and for all that he does for my family. That right there pretty much sums up their entire relationship: respect and admiration.
And for me, Sandy was one of my heroes. My only regret in having known her is that I didn't tell her she was one of my heroes. Almost every single conversation I had with her was deep and meaningful and she could always manage to get me to see the bigger picture. The other possessions I shared with her were not material items, but rather my passion for music. I would put on little concerts for her and she knew how much music meant to me. It meant a lot to her too. The one thing that sticks out most in my mind though of all we shared was one conversation we had shortly before her death. I was really frustrated because I had my provisional license, but no car. She kept telling me to be patient and that I would get a car. Ironically, she died shortly after and I did get a car: hers.
On December 29, 2004, Saundra Jane Rinehart took her residency in Heaven, leaving behind an incredible legacy; she had finally been granted her miracle: the chance to live in a perfect place. To this day, my family is closer than ever because we had to unite in order to make her life better and also to readjust to life without her. I am only a greater person for having known her, and not only is her spirit in my heart, but it's in my character. She is in the actions I take every day, and when I become a counselor in the future, she'll still be there.
I am now living out my dreams and I wish more than anything she could see everything that is happening for me. And as I stand at the cemetery, I look at the headstone that simply does not do justice to the life of Sandy for she was so much more than a name. To me, she was one of my saving graces, a driving force in my life, somebody who had an immense amount of support in me, and that can never fade away. As I leave and memories begin to flood my mind, I smile, and every time I see a picture or smell the scent of sunflowers, I will always smile. For that is Heaven's way of telling me that Sandy is still very much alive.

Hey!

I am so blessed to be able to write this blog right here. Out of every single blog I've written within the past year, this one means the most. It's symbolic of everything I am.

Seeing, not to mention MEETING, Reba McEntire was one of the greatest nights of my life without a doubt. But, I have been a fan of Amy Grant for much longer, and seeing her in concert was something I never thought I'd get to do.

BUT, I did. Last night, September 11th in Rio Rancho, to be exact. It was so exciting, and as I walked away from the Santa Ana Center, I couldn't help but smile at the beautiful person who has been one of my lifelong inspirations.

Ever since I was a little girl, I've loved everything about the person Amy Grant is. I loved the fact that her first love of music was Christian and that things were right in her life bc God was in the right place. I loved and admired the fact that she could go back and forth between christian and pop music without ever losing sight of "WHO" is most important. Her career and life just amazed me to no end. I wanted to be like her, and my CD player always consisted of one of her CDs.  Many of my childhood memories, not to mention friendships (Jessica :D) had the music of Amy Grant playing as the soundtrack. Not very many kids my age even knew who she was, but that's a quality I've always loved about myself. I like what I like and I don't care if it's not considered to be "popular."

SO! Fast forward many years down the line, and there I am sitting on the floor of one of her concerts. (We were really close to the stage; we were no farhter back than like the tenth row, but I could look them right in the eye! It rocked!)  It was "Vince Gill's Friends and Family Tour," but obviously since she is his wife, she had a significant part in it.

The show started at 7:30, and Vince Gill opened. Vince Gill is one of the funniest people I've ever seen in my life. Some of his humor was rather crude, but it felt so good just to be able to laugh for so long. He played for about an hour and then the Del McCoury Band played. WOW, how to describe them, LOL. Their genre is really old Bluegrass. I literally felt like it would never end because I really don't care for Bluegrass that much, but I do have to admit that it takes a lot of talent to play those instruments at their speed, so they did a good job.

Finally, Amy Grant came out. She opened with "Baby, Baby" followed by a new song called "If I Could See what the Angels See." I love the stories she told and this particular one had to do with the fact that both she and Vince Gill had been singing and touring from young ages. She sang in churches, he sang in bars. "In time though, you begin to realize they're the same people," she said half-jokingly. "Sooner or later, everyone finds their way to their knees, and this next song was written after a long period of being on my knees." That song just happened to be one of my all-time favorites, "Carry You."

 Then, she began introducing the next song. "This is for all of you who are having a bad day. Maybe the drive out here was longer than you thought and you barely rolled into the parking lot, missing the first two songs. Or, this is not the day, month, or year you expected it to be. This is a song to remind you that sometimes it just takes a little time." Vince Gill then kindly informed her that this was not the song they were planning to sing. "Forget that. We're not going to sing that song; but the next song does have the word 'parking lot' in it. :)" Amy responded. So they sang Joni Mitchell's classic (which was also a huge hit for Amy) "Big Yellow Taxi." "Don't it always seem to go that you don't know what you've got 'til it's gone." Everyone knows that song for it's applicable to everyone's life. Halfway through this song, though, Amy messed up on a note or something. It was obvious to everyone that she was frustrated with herself for messing up, but I realized something from watching that, aside from nobody's perfect. When it comes to the people we love in our lives, whether they're family members, friends, or entertainers, we love them unconditionally. You don't look down on them. You have empathy for them and you continue to love them as if nothing even happened. After having an amazing career for over twenty-five years, I highly doubt Amy Grant is going to get "booed" off the stage! Ha!

After "Big Yellow Taxi," Vince asked Amy, "What song do you want to sing now ? And she replied, "It Takes A Little Time." They were supposed to sing it all along; she had just gotten the order mixed up, and I honestly didn't understand why he didn't just sing it before "Big Yellow Taxi," so he wouldn't have humiliated her in front of everyone. I really felt bad for her, but she made a quick comeback. That's a quality in her I just love!

The next song was "I Will Remember You," and Amy told a story about her and Vince Gill's youngest daughter Corrina. Corrina leaves voicemails on Amy's phone while they're touring and she left a voicemail saying," It's not that I don't remember what you look like, but I don't remember the last time you were here." That's when Amy Grant and Vince Gill knew it was time to go home. The point Amy was making though was that memory is powerful and even if someone is really gone (as in passed away) but you remember them, they never can fade away. Her challege to us was to think of somebody we had lost and to remember them while she sang the song and she would do the same thing. Needless to say, I did :)

There was a short intermission (the concert ended up being three and a half hours long!) and then Vince Gill came back followed by the Del McCoury Band. Amy then came back and sang a new song called "True Love" which she wrote for Vince Gill, and "House of Love." Vince closed with "Liza Jane," and the show was over.

It was eleven and we drove back home right after the show ended. We got home around two, and I instantly fell asleep, but the whole way home I listened to my CD player and was just so incredibly thankful to my family and to God for letting me experience such wonderful things. Anymore, my life consists of exciting adventures every day, whether I make a new friend, learn something new, or go to a concert.

My life is pure joy. I am just so infatuated with it. My family, my friends...anyone who supports me beyond what they have to. You all keep me going and I love writing these blogs because I get to share a glimpse into my wonderful life with you, and it is my hope and prayer that when you finish reading the very last word:

You'll smile.

Hey!

As most of you know, I started college on Tuesday, August 21st at good 'ole San Juan College! My first day experiences were nothing short of horrible, but it has really turned around, and is becoming a positive experience for me. I didn't realize how diverse, liberal, and just different college was from high school, so that was a major contributing factor to being horrified. I never really thought that professors would purposely try to intimidate students out of their classes, but they do. I'm thankful in the sense, though, that all of my professors have really mellowed out.

I am taking English 111, Introduction to Psychology, Introduction to Sociology, and Math 096. Each class is a challenge in its own way, but the class I live and breathe for is Sociology. It is so much fun. There are only about twelve or thirteen students in there, so we bonded instantly. In fact, before the professor even took role on the first day, she gave us ten minutes to talk to every person in the class, and write one fact down about them. We then moved our desks into a circle, and took turns talking about each other. It was fun and we learned so much about each other. I believe that's why we all get along so well. Each of my classmates has an amazing story to tell about their own lives, and we all have huge hearts. It's just indescribable. I'm truly grateful to be in this class, and I know I will always be able to laugh in there from all the insanity that takes place, but the amount of honesty is also very surprising. We pretty much tell each other everything. It's one of those classes that you always pray you'll be a part of, and it's my turn this time!

Speaking of Sociology brings me to my next point, and current highlight of my life. Terry Swan, our professor, recommended that we all take part in service learning. Service learning is when you go out into the community, usually some kind of foundation or organization, and you volunteer. She's only requiring us to put in nine hours throughout the semester, which really isn't a lot if you ask me. So, I thought long and hard about where I wanted to go, and then it finally hit me: Big Brothers and Big Sisters. I've always wanted to be a part of that, mainly because I have a huge soft spot in my heart for kids, but I had always been too busy with school and work to truly devote enough time for a child. The guidelines there have changed however, and the requirement now is spending time with your little brother/sister once a month. Now, if I can't manage to do that, then I'm wasting my time and being a little selfish. SO, I have an interview there next Friday, September 7th, at 10 a.m. My background check/reference check will then take place so I can be matched up with a little sister. It shouldn't take longer than one month, and they're going to try and rush it since I'm also going to use nine of the hours for my service learning. I still fully intend to be a part of the "Make-A-Wish Foundation," whenever they choose to contact me, but I know the importance of having someone in your life you can look up to for guidance, and I pray with all of my heart I can do this for a child. I'm really excited because I know it's going to be so much fun, and when I give my presentation at the end of the semester, ten minutes won't do it justice because of the different ways the experience will be rewarding. I will be sure to let everyone know when I actually begin my volunteering.

I pretty much have a busy schedule. I'm working on Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. I have classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and then Fridays will be a catch-up/volunteer day. With this being so hectic, please keep me, as well as my sanity, in your thoughts! :) I hope to see everyone soon if I don't already see you at SJC because I miss everyone!

With that being said, keep in touch and know I love you all so MUCH!

Love,

Kathy

Hey!

I couldn't let the summer just slowly fade away without writing a blog about all of the blessings and life-changing events I've experienced over the past few months.

It all started with Graduation back in May. In my eighteen years on this earth, I've never experienced such a bittersweet day. It was such an exciting day, full of so many goodbyes, but it clearly had a huge impact on me because I still have dreams about that day, and they are always changing, much like my life! My life is never the same, but that's okay. All of my life, I've been the girl who let fear drive, but not anymore! It is my hope that by the end of this blog, at least one of my friends reading this will have a different outlook on life or even just crack one smile :)

The BIGGEST event in my summer was obviously my excursion to Tennessee; the trip that everyone has heard about! Ha! Needless to say, I am not going to go in great detail about it; I'm simply just mentioning it because it would be wrong not to. It was an incredible experience...a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and there isn't one day that goes by where I don't realize how blessed I was to take part in it.

As soon as I returned home, my life started changing in ways I didn't see coming. I never could have anticipated what was going to happen next.

I met a girl named Natalie. I met her through Facebook, and upon receiving her friend request, I already knew she was a fan of Reba. Her display pic was a pic with Reba taken a few months earlier. We started talking and my mind became a curious thing. As far as I knew, the only VIP deal for Reba's tour this summer was a charity auction, and there was only one person who would win per concert. So, the wheels in my mind started turning and I wanted to know how she had managed to meet Reba because I wanted in on it. I was being so selfish. Here I had just returned from "CMA Music Festival," and I wasn't content with it; I was already thinking of how "I" could make another concert. Then Natalie's response hit me like a ton of bricks. She was a candidate for Canada's "Children's Wish Foundation," and it had been her wish to meet Reba. I knew what they meant. It meant she was sick and it must be pretty bad because foundations like that are out great expenses for each wish they grant. I felt like the most ungrateful person in the world. That was the last day I wanted to make another concert so badly.

A few days after this experience, I signed on with the "Make-A-Wish Foundation." Natalie wasn't my only inspiration for this..many people were. I knew in my heart of hearts though that it was the perfect time. Although I am still waiting for a training session to be scheduled, I haven't given up on volunteering and I know that something will come together soon.

In the meantime, I began working at least twenty-five hours per week at Hastings, and I really began enjoying it. In the past, I had had the world's WORST attitude about my job, but I really started getting to know my co-workers, and establishing those relationships and actually putting some effort into enjoying my job saved me. After a year and a half, I am still working there.

I'd be lying if I said I didn't try to leave though. I went on two job interviews during the summer, and they were certainly for interesting jobs! One was working for Vector, a company that specializes in selling high quality  cutlery and the other was as a support instructor for PMS's Project Shield. I couldn't figure out how on earth I managed to score such odd interviews as a teenager, but I know God has a sense of humor and He was very creative in getting me to realize that I have a good job.

I do have to admit that I seriously thought about taking the job at Project Shield. My heart was torn. I wanted to help others in any way I could, but I just wasn't ready for the amount of responsibilty it required...not when it came to the life and well-being of another. I think I did them a favor by turning the job down. I know now that I was trying to rush into a career instead of a job. AND, there is something else I know now too: I can make a difference working at Hastings by being dependable, by smiling at someone who needs it, by asking (and truly meaning it when I ask) "how are you today?" And, every once and a while, someone comes through my line and makes a difference in my day. I even got nominated into the top four for the All-Star Award. I didn't win, but then again, I didn't deserve to win. Being nominated was enough.

This summer, I've realized that I've made a difference in at least one life just by being who I am...and that is a person who cares. I'm a girl who would do anything for a friend, and sometimes my heart is too big and I end up getting hurt, but that's okay. Things are supposed to be that way.

I've started looking at the lives of ppl around me in a psychological way. I want to know about the different factors that have made that person who they are, and I've learned a lot about the ppl in my life. I'm amazed at how many of my friends were abandoned by one parent, who lost a loved one in a tragic way, who constantly get criticized and feel like they can't do anything right, who have had babies at a young age (the perfect example of how something that seems like a huge mistake can in fact be a blessing.) I'm amazed because they are amazing human beings who still live in positive ways. They're able to take a chance and love again after losing everything when I, who have lost nothing, can't even be that brave at times. I have the BEST friends in the entire world. I'm lucky. In Eighteen years, I've managed to seek more happiness than some people who live to be 100 do. I'm loved and appreciated. I love and appreciate others. Everything that I'm going/gone through has value to somebody out there because it makes the road they're traveling on a little bit easier and I can't think of how many lives will be saved just by that.

Come Tuesday, I begin COLLEGE. I begin my journey into becoming a counselor/psychologist and I can't wait. I'm going to have a career that seeks to improve the quality of life for another human being and I'm psyched! :) THIS is what life is: laughing, loving, helping, sharing, caring, and appreciating every single thing you've been given.

This summer was amazing, not to mention fun. I've cherished every moment and I've really started loving the people in my life more. I've watched my parents, who have been together for twenty years and I SEE commitment. I see what it means to say, "I do," and then to actually carry out that promise. I've laughed until my face hurt. I've cried when I've seen someone I love getting older or going through a hard time and I know why. It's because over the course of this summer...

I grew up.

Hey!

This past week has, without a doubt, changed my life dramatically. As most of you know, I've signed with the "Make-A-Wish Foundation" as a "wish granter" and I couldn't be more proud. This is the greatest accomplishment I've acheived yet in my eighteen years on this earth.

It's kinda fun to look back on all of the bulletins I've posted over the week, as well as the kindhearted responses I've received, because I can sense the anticipation I have for being a part of the family for the "Make-A-Wish Foundation." I know that once my part takes off, I am destined to meet so many wonderful children, as well as their parents, and truly gain a new perspective on life. It'll be so worthwhile to dedicate time in order for them to live their final wishes. I know the importance of having a dream come true. I am the girl from Aztec who met Reba, after all! Even though it's almost been one year, it changed my life forever...renewed my faith in humanity, and there isn't one day that goes by that I don't relive the experience in my mind. Of course, I do have the picture sitting right beside me on my desk! LOL

But in all seriousness, thank ya'll so much for the support. It means so much to me. I'd like to extend a special thank-you to Saja, who took the time to write me a message telling me how proud she is of me, and how she is proud to be able to say one of her friends is involved with the "Make-A-Wish Foundation." (She has an immense amount of respect for it.) Saja, thank you. I needed to hear that and the truth is you inspire me; I'm the one who is beyond proud to be able to call you a friend.

Also, I'd especially like to thank Rae, Alexis, Natalie, Kayla, Christie, Laura, Kelli, Brandi, Michelle, my parents, and everybody else who has told me I am doing a good job. I appreciate the support, and more importantly, I need it. I love you.

If you're reading this, it means you're a major part of my life and I love you dearly. It's so neat to share this part of my life with you.

SO, here is an overview of the past week just in case you missed the bulletins.

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June 23, 2007:

Hey Everybody!

I am SO excited to be sharing this news with ya'll, my closest friends and family, before I share it with anyone else!

As of today, I am officially going to be....a volunteer for the NM chapter of the "Make A Wish Foundation," and I should be getting called for a follow-up shortly.

I love this feeling: the giving back that heals your heart and makes you proud of all you can accomplish.

I couldn't have had the strength to do this without a few ppl though, and they deserve an extended special thanks:

--To GOD: Thank you SO much for letting me lead my incredible life and for giving me the blessings I most definitely don't deserve. I can't do anything without You, and You make me strong.

--To my parents and Michelle: You guys always believe in and support me with no questions asked; thanks for raising me and enforcing me to stick by my morals and values.

--To REBA, of course!: If it hadn't been for the video I watched on YouTube highlighting all you do for others, I probably wouldn't have realized things weren't right in my life. Even though you don't know it, you get at least half of the credit!

--To Ms. Connie Edwards: Throughout all of your trials and tribulations battling cancer several times, you have always taught me one thing: A positive attitude can cure anything! You get the other half of the credit!

--To my very special new friend, Natalie: Girl, your inner strength and positive personality truly inspire me. I know no matter what happens as far as your illness goes, you're in God's hands and He's going to take care of you. AND, never forget how much of an incredible impact you've already made in my life after knowing you for a day. You put things into perspective for me, and instead of complaining as I headed out the door to go to work, I actually looked forward to it...because I can. I already love you dearly :)

--And, of course, to ALL OF you, to my teachers, everybody who has ever shown faith in me and told me that I've done good in my life. I want to continue to share all of my successes, life goals, dreams, and accomplishments with you!

I hope I make you proud! :)

Have a wonderful evening!

Love,
Kathy

June 25, 2007:

Hey!

I received the follow-up call this morning, and the ppl over at the headquarters (ABQ) put my paper-work in the mail this morning, so by the end of the week, I should sign with the foundation. I have to send in seven dollars for the background check and attend training in Albuquerque, but I am going to be a "wish granter," which basically means I will be involved in a group that goes to the homes of children nominated to discover what their "wishes" are. The wish granters are the only ones who actually connect with the kids, so I'm excited. They definitely have a place in my heart!

I'll keep ya'll posted as to what's going on, but thank you so much for your kind responses. I love you!

Have a GREAT afternoon!!

Best wishes,
Kathy

And today, June 27th, of course:

I SIGNED WITH THE "MAKE-A-WISH-FOUNDATION!!"

Now, all that is left is to do is a background check and then I'm off to Albquerque for training.

As a "wish granter," I will:

*Accept a wish assignment from Wish Coordinator, make contact with the family within 48 hours, and arrange for a family interview with the wish granting partner.

*Conduct the child and family interview within two weeks of assignment and take whatever steps are required to identify the child's wish.

I just wanted to update everybody and I'll let you know when I begin the training and everything!

Have a wonderful evening!!

Always,
Kathy

Dear Most Awesome and Generous Friends O'Mine:

Today has simply ROCKED :p

First of all, I got my bedroom completely re-done the other day as you all know, and it couldn't be more pink!! Yay for pink!!

Then, I got a couple of CDs and money, which is always good!

And today......

I have been so blessed to get so many well-wishes and compliments as I enter into "adulthood" which freaks me out in SO many ways, but I was able to cast those fears to the side for at least one day. My family even spent like $34 on a meal at Fuddruckers which totally ROCKS! And, I got to hit the shopping mall after that. It was wonderful!!

I can't tell you how much all of the birthday wishes have meant to me throughout the course of today, esp. ALL of you who sent wonderful comments! It was SUCH a pleasure to hear from you!

Oh, and a BIG thank-you to my wonderful English class who sang to me thanks to Mrs. Kulidge and Ms. Gaiovnik. I totally turned red, but it was nice to be thought of, lol.

The friendships I share with all of you are the most precious gifts I could ever receive and I AM deeply grateful.

Ahhh, I am SO glad I was born!

Much, MUCH love and gratitude,

Kathy

Hey Everybody!!

One of my current favorite songs happens to be entitled, "I Don't Wanna Know." As you can imagine, it outlines some of the problems facing the world today, and I don't think a more appropriate song could have been written.

I simply cannot get over the fact that last week was MAJOR for me. I realized so many things, and learned so many things from the two talks I had with two of the world's greatest teachers: Mrs. Vaughn, and Ms. Gaiovnik. Mrs. Kulidge made my day today by saying that she and Ms. Gaiovnik had decided they weren't going to let me graduate!...I know she was kidding, but that'd work for me! :D

Anyway, I find it ironic that a fellow Farmington man is about to raise money for starving ppl in foreign countries when there are plenty of starving ppl here. I honestly think that our morals are in danger, and that we as human beings, have a LOT of soul-searching to do if we want to make things right.

Today in English, we were reading Frankenstein and there was a passage in there about knowledge, and the saying "Ignorance is bliss" was mentioned. It's so true. This song is basically talking about the fact that the more knowledge you gain, and everything you see in the world makes you sad, and it gets to the point where you don't want to know anymore.

However, we can overcome this. If we decide we are going to be stronger than the evil forces by positive attitudes and uplifting morals, we will overcome it.

I am so content with myself as a person it's not even funny. I'm surrounded by beautiful, wonderful, precious ppl that I absolutely adore and they have a major influence on my character. I'm so grateful that I have an opportunity to sit here and write this now, and that I can base my opinions not only on a song, but by actual events that are taking place in my life right NOW.

If you actually read my blogs, and can put up with my random ramblings,  I thank you and appreciate you! You have a VERY special place in my heart.

Have a good evening, take care, and God bless!!

Xoxo,

Kathy

"I Don't Wanna Know"

I heard the song, it was all around
Everyone's quitting, everyone's breaking down
I called your house on the telephone
Nobody answered, but I know you're home

All in all, it's nature's poetry
I can't understand the way it flows
I don't wanna know
No, I don't wanna know
Cuz everything I know makes me feel so low
No, I don't wanna know

I pushed a button just to find my way
I got directions but I'm still lost today
I see her smiling, but her eyes were dead
Nobody's crying, that's what paper said

All in all, it's nature's poetry
I can't understand the way it goes
I don't wanna know
No, I don't wanna know
Cuz everything I know makes me feel so low
No, I don't wanna know

All in all, it's nature's poetry
Can't understand the way it flows
So I don't wanna know
No, I don't wanna know
Cuz everything I know makes me feel so low
No, I don't wanna know

No, I don't wanna know
No, I don't wanna know
No, I don't wanna know
Cuz everything I know makes me feel so low
No, I don't wanna know

Hey,
My gosh, today was certainly WAY crazy for me. To make a long story short, one of my English teachers graded my essay during class and it moved her to tears. I felt really bad since we were right in the middle of class. During sixth hour, I went and talked to her about it, and she said a certain part had really put things into perspective for her, and I immediately flashbacked to how it had changed my family's lives. I've decided to post it, bc, it truly was a spiritual experience for all of us, and I want to share it with YOU...MY friends:

It was around Christmas, and our beloved family friend Sandy was still alive. She had just purchased a new bed, and had wanted my Dad to donate the old mattress to the Salvation Army, in hopes that someone in desperate need of a nice, warm bed would get it. So, my Dad loaded the mattress into his car, and took it to the location during his lunch hour. When he got there, the employees wouldn't accept the bed due to a minor tear in the mattress. So, my Dad loaded the bed back into his car and was preparing to leave, when a family of a father and two little boys approached him. The man asked my Dad if he could have the mattress, because he knew a family in dire need of one. My Dad said they were more-than-welcome to take it, and as my Dad turned his back, one of the little boys said, "Wow, Daddy, we're finally going to have a bed to sleep on tonight."

Is this heart-wrenching or what? Immediately, my mind goes to a song entitled "Where Has All The Love Gone?" Of course, I AM going to post the lyrics at the bottom of this bulletin, but, it's so true. As human beings, we should always be doing the right thing by helping those in need. Even if we don't have something to gain from it. There are millions of ppl here in America that desparately need help, and they're crying out for it. Are we listening though? IF we were, wouldn't these problems start disappearing? There is a quote that says something to this extent: If you're not part of the solution, you're the problem. But, through kind words and actions, we CAN help. We might not be doing something as heroic as running into a burning building to save someone, but, you can be a hero. I'm so thankful for today; it has really opened my eyes. I hope whoever might read this will have their day made just as much as mine. I mean, I've read plenty of autobiographies, and I remember being moved by something that a person wrote...usually, it was real life experiences, and now something that I've experienced has touched at least two lives. Praise the Lord! That's all that I can say! My life is such a blessing. I'm constantly learning this over and over again, and I'm so grateful for all of the wonderful ppl in my life, esp. YOU!

Keep Rocking :)

I love you ALL very much, <3

Xoxo,
Kathy :p

"Where Has All The Love Gone?"

Today I saw the strangest thing on the evening news
A man who wasn't sad at all about what's going on
And even though I'm trying to smile
With everything I see it could take a while

Chorus:
I've been looking everywhere I go
Where has all the love, where has all the love gone?
I've been looking all around to know
Where has all the love, where has all the love gone?

Yesterday I heard you say you never close your eyes
Sometimes the world's a scary ride; it's hard to hang on
Along the way we got off track
And if we turn around can we ever get back?

Repeat Chorus

You say it was there when we were young

Today I saw a flag roll by on a wooden box
And if it's true we lost our way
Then what have we got?

Repeat Chorus 2x

Today I saw the strangest thing...

**********************************************************

January 24, 2007

Hey guys,
Wow, today was SUCH an incredible day...truly. I can't believe how blessed I am. I am satisfied with my life, in fact this is the most satisfied I've EVER been.

It all started with the kind words and actions of a woman I respect more than anything on this Earth; she's such a beautiful woman inside-and-out, and I'm blessed to have her in my life. I happen to be talking about my English teacher and hero, Ms. Gaiovnik. She basically told me that I am one of the contributing factors that keeps her going. *sigh* I've never been more honored in my life, and to not only know, but to SEE, the ways God's using me really makes me feel empowered. I think the world of this particular lady, and she deserves to hear that. If you're ever wanting advice, remember this: TELL ppl how you feel...tell them on a regular basis, not just on special occcasions. In my own personal experiences, if you're really feeling a strong tugging on your heartstrings to tell them, you really need to. It's God's way of telling YOU to tell them; they probably really need to hear it on that day depending on their own circumstances.

Then, I got to go visit with my number one hero not including my family! (Mrs. Vaughn, actually it's Edwards now, but still: YAY!) Everytime I get to see her we always have such meaningful conversations, and I always feel like I'm a better person. I admire her for so many reasons...her inner strength, physical strength; I basically just adore her! She always says the thing I most need to hear, and I believe days like these are God's little way of renewing our faith. She has overcome SO many obstacles. In fact, one would have to begin to wonder how much a person could possibly take if they knew everything life's dealt her. I told her that I found her amazing, and you know what she told me? When she was so sick with cancer THREE times, she remained positive bc any day she was waking up was a blessing....one that she was grateful for. She said even bad days were good days....just to be alive was enough! Wow, that touched my heart like no other!! She also said that she doesn't consider herself to be a "great" teacher, but rather a mediocre one; she thinks she's a teacher bc she loves kids and loves the type of person she is for helping them. This, my friends, is the key to a WONDERFUL teacher! We talked for a LONG time, yet I'll always treasure EVERYTHING she said, because it was a true display of how beautiful she is.

We had also discussed all of the classes I was taking, and upon telling her I had Mrs. Kulidge and Ms. Gaiovnik for English this year, I learned how much SHE adores them too! Wow, isn't it amazing how lives can be connected?!

So, when I got home, I called Ms. Gaiovnik's extension and told her how much we had been talking about the two of them, and all of the wonderful things she's done. It was at this time she told me my phone call came exactly at the right time. See? God DOES work in mysterious ways! I've actually been a witness to that now!

I'm in awe of all of the wonderful, beautiful, and amazing people God has so graciously chosen to surround me with, and I couldn't be anymore thankful. I know some ppl who have been through the most heartwrenching tragedies that humans could possibly endure, but their experiences have value...to ME, and I can and do learn from it. If you're actually taking the time to read this, I thank you from the bottom of my heart! It's also my hope and my prayer that you would be able to surround yourself with kind-hearted human beings who will make a difference in your life. Just know you're already doing your fair share of making a difference in my life, and I'll always love you for that.

I love all of you so much, and I honestly don't know what I'd do without you!

Xoxo,
Kathy

**************************************************************

January 26, 2007

Hey,

Another week has come and gone in the blink of an eye! I cannot believe how fast time just flies by...especially when you're having fun! I must be on a roll this week, lol, because both Wednesday and Thursday were like the BEST days ever. I haven't had such great days since I met 'my' Reba Nell, and goodness knows that's been a while!

It seems like things go your way exactly when you're needing them to, and I have now witnessed that. Of course, in my previous blog, I wrote about my visit with Mrs. Vaughn on Wednesday and much it meant to me. Well, Thursday was my visit with Ms. Gaiovnik, one of the coolest ladies you'd ever meet in a lifetime! For some reason, I've always had a tendency to bond with teachers, and this is probably due to my immense respect for them. Hands-down, teachers ROCK and I owe them more than I could EVER pay.

I just happened to run into her in the hallway as I was leaving school which was right after fifth hour, and sixth hour is her prep period. We started out by talking about Mrs. Vaughn and how incredible she is for overcoming cancer so many times and remaining positive. Then, we kind of just flowed into talking about EVERYTHING else: books, life, college, hating change (something we share in common apparently!)

It's kind of funny in an ironic way, bc I really felt compelled in my heart to share some things with her, mainly concerning how I felt about her, and I could tell by her kind heart that it was really appreciated and needed. I know for a fact now from this past week that God lets us know when we need to touch the life of another human being by kind words and/or actions. We just have to be willing to listen. I also know for a fact now that I can make a difference anywhere I am at through MY actions. Having heroes such as Mrs. Vaughn, Mrs. Hill, Ms. Gaiovik, Mrs. Kulidge, and so forth has been so beneficial to me. I LEARN from these ppl bc I love them with all of my heart, and I honestly take value through any type of experience or obstacle they've gone through. They make me better. They've made a difference. They're continuing to make a difference.

I only wish each week I could have a life-changing experience such as this to truly put things into perspective for me, to realize how blessed I am, and in the words of Mrs. Vaughn, "Even bad days are good days bc being alive is a gift."

I understand everyone has hard times in life, and I sympathize. I really do. But, she's right. Life IS a gift. Each day is a gift. Don't ever get so caught up in anything to the point where you're taking life for granted. It's like Ms. Gaiovnik told me when she said I was a selfless person: you're no good to anyone if you don't take care of yourself.

I know that ALL of you are selfless people who are leading valuable lives, and I honestly applaud and love you for that. You're my friends...and I'm selective in the types of people I choose to associate with. I think the world of you guys, and I've known MANY of you since Kindergarten. We've grown up together, and I love the fact I get opportunities to share such wonderful experiences with you all.

GOD, thank you SO much for this week. I feel like a new person--a better person, and I owe it all to YOU!

You, my friends, ALL rock in my eyes, and I hope you have a really good weekend. And hey, if you get bored and want to say hello, you KNOW where to find me....Hastings!

God bless and goodnight everyone!

Love,

Kathy