So scary it's funny

So normally, I stay away from anything political but Sarah Palin has sucked me in. I'm no political buff, but the thought of this woman running the country scares the crap out of me. At least we can all get some laughs, right?? Thanks, Tina Fey...

Wisco Connections

Driving home from church on Sunday, I found myself behind another Wisconsin license plate...very rare down here so I was quite excited! My friend, Lauren, and I shared a laugh when we noticed the moo cow bumper sticker mixed in with the other clutter. (Dad-- you would have loved all those stickers ;)

Another reminder of home came yesterday...a new editor started in our office and we got to chatting about how she ended up in South Carolina. She's lived on the west coast for a long time, but she grew up in - of all places - Wauwatosa! After discussing some Wisconsin fare and traditions, she let me know about a great place to get custard. Unfortunately, its not in Columbia, but it is in Asheville so I'm thinking a stop is in order when we're there for Erin's wedding!

Small, small world...have a great day!

Photographic evidence

The rumors are true, folks...I really did wear a dress to the USC game this past weekend. And I actually have photos to prove it. Before you all get too disappointed in me, I want you to know I thought very long and hard about the wardrobe choice. I even tested out the shorts and t-shirt option on our porch that morning before ultimately deciding on the dress. And as much as I hate to say it, I'm so glad I went with the dress. It was RIDICULOUSLY hot that day...up over 95 degrees! Tailgating and watching a game in that weather was a new experience. (Disclaimer: Graphic material) I should have known it would be a long day when I had sweat through my dress (for the first time) before arriving at our tailgate spot. Yikes! Here's a bunch of the girls in my program who went for the dress option:


These were taken early on in the tailgate...before a ponytail was an absolute necessity and the term "hot mess" was an understatement.

Roomates Melissa and Emily, buddy/coworker Spencer and me

Some favorites...Spring and Jenn

This girl cracks me up...Mary :)

Caitlyn- This one's for you...

PBR SIGHTING!!!!

My first glimpse of "Cocky" in the stadium...isn't he cute?

Not quite as ferocious or entertaining as Bucky, but what can you do?!?

Despite the heat, it was a fun day and great introduction to SEC football. Although, nothing quite compares to the Badgers being in the top 10! All of you attending the big game in Michigan next weekend better cheer hard :)

More birthday wishes

September's a busy birthday month...today is Dad's birthday! Wishing him a great round of golf and lots of ice cream :) Happy birthday!

Breaking down

I'm sad to say it, but I think I might have to give in to a Southern tradition that I vowed never to do...wearing a dress to a football game. (Gasp!) I know I thought these ladies were crazy, but considering it will be at least 95 degrees tomorrow, it might be a smart move. The heat combined with the large number of bodies crammed together in the stadium could be unbearable, so every little bit (including clothing choice) might help. I'll let you know the outcome after tomorrow's game.

Happy Birthdays!!

Happy birthday to Amy and Asher! Not going to lie...I'm a bit sad that I can't be there to celebrate with either of them. But wishing my beautiful sisters a fantastic day! I can't believe our baby sister is 21 and Amy's reached the quarter-century mark...wow!

celebrating the arrival of our luggage in Vienna -- hopefully "Stephanie" will come out today too!

Congratulations are in order!

My lovely and talented sister, Amy is officially a licensed pharmacist! We can now call her Dr. Kennedy! YAY!!

And congrats to Courtney and Austin...they got engaged this weekend! So excited for them! Check out their adorable story :)

Happy Labor Day!

I hope everyone is enjoying the long weekend! This weekend (and the past couple) I've been able to learn about and experience some traditions down here along with sharing some new experiences with my HESA friends. It's been enlightening and entertaining to say the least...here are some highlights:

Sorority Bid Day (aka Squeal day) is a big deal on this campus. All the girls gather on the historic horseshoe on a Sunday afternoon and get their bid cards with which sorority they will be pledging. Lots of balloons, screams, tears and emotions. I was curious after hearing about the craziness and it definitely was a sight to see...

the first of many balloon arches on the Horseshoe

girls running after opening their bids...it was dangerous!

spectators staying clear of the chaos: Lauren, me, Mary and Emily

Another tradition for HESA students is McFly. Little did I know what a huge crowd this 80s cover band draws!

McFly himself scaling the wall...his signature move before singing a little Journey

Friends in my cohort: Nayland and Adrienne

Stadium Suites ladies: Lauren, Angela and Emily (missing Melissa)

First meal at Chick-fil-A. Melissa is from Michigan so neither of us had ever set foot inside this restaurant. Some of the girls decided that the "northerners" needed to experience at least one meal here. I must say, they do make a mean chicken salad sandwich.

Melissa and me enjoying our first meal!

Yesterday a big crew of us made the short trip to Charleston to spend the day at the beach. We went to a spot called Sullivan's Island which is a quieter local spot. One of the guys in the program grew up in Charleston and gave us the inside scoop. It was a beautiful beach and we had perfect weather...couldn't have asked for a better day!

the view from our spot

HESA Beach Crew