Sight of 2020

So much for doing one blog post per month. So here's an update for the past few months:

January 2020

A co-worker and I had the opportunity to travel to South Bend, Indiana where we helped the parts department count and update their inventory. Our job is to keep track of inspections and parts on the aircrafts so it was neat to see and handle the parts that we only really know of by name in the computer.

The Parts Manager was super sweet and sent us a cute sweatshirt as a souvenir for our trip and work with them.

                         ( My co-worker Kristine and I sporting our sweatshirts)

Charles and I are teaching 9 year olds in church and it has been so much fun and a very learning experience. We love those kids.

At the end or January, Charles and I went to Memphis, Tennessee. The sole purpose was for me to see my specialist regarding the disease, Tuberous Sclerosis that I was born with, but we also had some fun time while there.

We ate some great barbecue and fried chicken and my doctor was impressed with my active self as I have been running, working out and striving to eat healthy. I have lost 20 pounds since August and I have improved myself quite well in the running world as I strive to train for a Half Marathon by the end of the year. My kidneys are stable, and I am grateful for that as that is one of the main concerns. My disease presents Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) so I have to keep things monitored. Another concern with my disease is lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM), which is similar to emphysema.. This can develop with similar tumors like my disease presents starting to effect the lungs. My doctor had no concern and even emphasized that running will strengthen my lungs to avoid getting LAM. He also continues to say I'm good to handle a pregnancy when Charles and I are ready to start a family!

    (Charles and our yummy BBQ)                                        (Memphis, Tennessee Temple)

February 2020 

I ran another 5K called the "Chocoholic Frolic." It wasn't my fastest time, but I'm getting stronger. I am learning to pace myself. I ran a fast first mile and I was struggling in the end. I'm grateful for the strength I'm developing through my fitness journey. It is helping my confidence in so many ways.

                                  (I have lost 20 pounds since August and am feeling great!)

I was able to see my sweet niece, Sariah get baptized and spend some good time with family. It is hard to get away from the busy everyday life sometimes.

We haven't traveled at all since the outbreak of the Coronavirus, but we plan future trips down the road when things are a bit more certain. The way I see it, we must live our lives, be cautious and prepared and that's all we can do. If I ever get the virus and I died I'd take it as a sign that God wanted me to come home. I do love my life, but will do what ever God asks of me. 

It's been one year since I had my braces put on and the changes have been amazing thus far. I am half way done to get my perfect smile.  :)

March 2020 (so far...)

I am preparing for a surgery at the end of the month. Last month, I noticed a pain in the left quadrant of my abdomen that has increasingly gotten worse over the years. It wasn't so noticeable because I thought it was associated with my menstrual cycle. However, it has changed and the pain has been so unbearable that I have not been able to sleep some nights. It has called irregular bleeding also.

After some doctor visits it was discovered that I have a endometrial polyp or a mass of tissue that has constantly become irritated inside my uterus.. I've also got some cysts on my left ovary. My OBGYN has also stated without surgery it will continue to cause pain and bleeding and may cause me several miscarriages. So... March 25 is my surgery and I will have a couple weeks of healing and about a month of recovery before I can get back to my regular activity (training for my running goals). Life has its ups and downs and I've had many times of trial and patience when I get back into running, but I'm not giving up. My brother-in-law says it's a "Coombs" thing, because Nola and I are equally determined to work through injury and trial when we want to stay physically active.

Life is good and I'm very blessed.

So Long 2019 and Facebook

2019 has been a tough year.

After receiving my certification in dental assisting, I was hired at Riverside Dental Care in St. George, Utah in November 2018. The job was a growing time in my life. I learned a lot about myself and what I can do and who I am. However, part of that growing was that dental was not where I needed to be. After 6 months I was let go from the job. In a fast moving job and my first experience at dental, I was found to be a better asset at a smaller office.

My next step I took to the Lord and felt inspired to return to my previous job at SkyWest Airlines, which is where I am now. I have had opportunities already to grow within the position and am enjoying the travel benefits with my husband once more. We had the opportunity to celebrate our two-year anniversary in Honolulu and will be going to Memphis at the end of January. I will be going to see my specialist as well as spend some time celebrating Charles's birthday while exploring Memphis.

(Makapu'u Point Lighthouse, Oahu, HI)

Another growing experience has been Charles and my marriage. We have had our ups and downs with job changes, income trials and I totaled our Lincoln MKZ when I hit a deer on the freeway recently. Life hasn't been easy, but I'm grateful for the growth we have made and know that we can withstand all the struggles that come and remember that our love is never ending.

(totaled Lincoln)

(Our new bug)

A trial I've turned into a challenge and growing experience has been taking care of my health. With me going back to a desk job, I've needed to get up and move around and watch my eating so I don't gain the weight I had before with this job. In July, I made a commitment to start running again and slowly work to lose weight and eventually run a half-marathon by next year. I have ran more than 210 miles since August and have lost 22 pounds. I have never felt so healthy and in shape since maybe high school. I'm excited about my goals and the ability to stay motivated to wake up early and challenge myself to keep going. Our dog, Leo has been a great running partner with me also.

(After running a 5K in the rain)

(Super Leo)

In the church, Charles and I have been called to teach the 8 year olds this next year. Charles has been teaching the 14 and 15 year olds and I have been an assistant librarian. We are excited to have an opportunity to grow together in this new calling.

This year has taught me a lot and I've had my moments of disappointment as I've not always been kind and a great example, but I have to remind myself no one is perfect. I am anxious for my future and know the opportunities that I look forward to will come in time.

(Leo and Charles hiking)

I wish you all a happy new year and I will be updating my blog monthly. I have made the decision I will not be on Facebook more than just once a month to post my blog posts. I've let social media turn me into a not so good person and would like to focus myself on more positive things.

2018: Year In Review

I can't believe I've gone this whole year without a post. I think that needs to be my New Year's Resolution to write more in 2019.

2018 has been a memorable one and I cannot believe it is over.

We did a lot of traveling during the year while I was working for SkyWest Airlines in their Maintenance Department as a Records Specialist. 

(SkyWest Airlines plane in Kalispell, MT)

In January we went to Thermopolis, Wyoming to visit my mission and enjoy the hot springs. It was great to go back, visit many great people from my mission and enjoy my husband's birthday there.

(Sulfur Hot Springs; Thermopolis, WY)

(Sulfur Hot Springs; Thermopolis, WY)

In February, I entered the Mountain America Credit Union Valentine's Day Giveaway and won the Grand Prize with 4 DOZEN ROSES and $100 to SEE'S CANDIES. I shared most everything with my 30+ co-workers. Also at the end of February, we decided we were ready for a puppy to love on after I had given Annabelle to a new family, which she is very happy with. We found Leo, an Australian Shephard/Pomeranian mix. We love him dearly and he has been the perfect addition to our family since. 

(4 dozen roses I won)

(Leo, our Aussie/Pomeranian)

In April we went to Oahu, Hawaii for my birthday and had a blast visiting Pearl Harbor, the Laie Temple, snorkeling where we saw Nemo and an Octopus, ate yummy Hawaiian food and drove around the whole island.

(Laie, HI)

In May, We flew to Baltimore, Maryland to visit Charles's friend, Luke who took us to all the sites of Washington D.C. as well as Gettysburg. Unfortunately, while in Arlington Cemetery, I was a dork and was hoping and skipping around, kicked my husband in the butt teasingly, landed wrong on my foot rolling my ankle and I fractured my tibia bone.. I was then stuck in a boot for 6 weeks. But the trip was still great and worth it!

(Fractured ankle)

(Lincoln Memorial, Washington D.C.)

(Washington D.C. Temple)

(Gettysburg Battlefield)

 

(Arlington National Cemetery)

In June, We were able to join my mother and brother, Ashley in Minnesota with my mother's family for a family reunion and some other fun. My mom, who is now 71 years old tried water skiing after being away from it for 21 years! She got up for a few seconds and declared "I'm not as strong as I used to be." I was still quite proud of her and my husband, Charles, who also tried. I was still laid up, but was able to go swimming nevertheless! 

(Sunset over Bald Eagle Lake, MN)

In July, I got to go visit with my brother, Zane and his family in Gilbert, AZ. It was nice to just jump on a plane and visit for the weekend.

(My nieces Vanessa and Whitney and sister-in-law, Judye at the movie theater)

(Whitney and I are kitties.)

In August, We made our last real trip together and went back to Ketchikan, Alaska where I worked back in 2013 for Experience Alaska Tours, a shore excursion company for the cruise ship industry. I was out of my boot and in physical therapy by this time so we got to zip line and enjoy the crab at the lodge I worked at 5 years prior.

(Charles and I in the liquid sunshine {rain} in Ketchikan, AK)

(Charles, my cousin Rea and I going zip lining)

(Charles is ready to zip)

(Me zipping through the rain forest)

On August 14, I went back to school at Dental Essentials School of Dental Assisting in St. George to become a dental assistant. This was a career I had long been wanting to pursue, but had not had the opportunity and timing until then. The school was a 10-week hands-on course that got me my certification to work in any dental office after those 10 weeks. Of course, I can say now that the school is nothing compared to actually doing the work in an actual office. I graduated from school on October 26 and after a working interview, I was offered a job at Riverside Dental Care, where I now work with 4 doctors and other amazing staff!

(My teachers DeAnna and Keri)

(Me with my certifications)

(Our first family photo)

Also in October, I took a trip to Memphis, Tennessee to see my specialist, who is the best in the country in regards to my genetic condition, Tuberous Sclerosis. Many of you who have read all my blogs are aware that five years ago when I had a snowboarding accident, I had some serious injuries and became aware that doctors discovered as a result of my condition, I have Chronic Kidney Disease as well as many other renal conditions that I must monitor yearly as well as treat through an expensive medication. Also, five years ago, I was told by a nephrologist that it would be life threatening for me to go through a pregnancy. He said after taking the medication for awhile and observing things for five years, there could be a chance I could go through one, but it sounded like very low odds. I wanted a second opinion and started going to this doctor in Tennessee. He brought me better understanding of my condition than I ever knew in my whole life. This visit in October, I asked him if he thought I could ever bear a child. He said I am only in Stage 1 of Chronic Kidney Disease, which means I'm barely below the 100% kidney function and he said he had to see imaging, but I should be able to handle a pregnancy.. I was thanking my Heavenly Father so much at that moment. The tears flowed freely as I realized that becoming a mother would be a reality. Charles and I would like two children if possible and hope for a miracle if it be so that maybe we will be blessed with twins (they do run in our family, but not yet in immediate family). Even if we don't get twins we will be grateful to have whatever God blesses us with when the time comes. 

In November, I started my new job at Riverside Dental Care, which I love! It is a new path compared to journalism and clerical jobs I've had in the past, but I am so excited to be helping others with their smiles and serving in healthcare. 

Also in November, Charles found out he was not accepted into flight school, which was a let down for us. Charles had pursued two schools since early summer and had not been accepted. No explanation was given other than he was not chosen. Becoming a commercial pilot has been a dream for Charles since he was a child and the fact I got my dream, but he didn't has been a tear in my heart. We have, however, accepted that this must not be his path now as he does enjoy working side-by-side with his brother, Nick in the cabinetry business. 

Our Heavenly Father has sent us many blessings as we are preparing to be sealed in the St. George Temple in the next month. Charles was ordained to the Melchezidiak  Priesthood by his grandfather. It has been such a blessing and increased love and joy in our home since then. I am excited to be sealed to my sweetheart. Our first year of marriage has been a great and growing one. 

I look forward to the new adventures and blessings that 2019 will bring. Happy New Year to you all! <3

A Knight's Tale

This blog post is LONG overdue! I have been thinking of writing for over a year, but have yet to sit down and get at it.


A lot has changed for me in the last year. The last thing I ever mentioned in my last blog was my divorce and move to Cedar City where I was living my dream as an editor for the Iron County Today.


Jumping back to January of 2017, I was living with my college best friend, Hanna Williams and her family. I have my cute little mini dachshund/pug mix Annabelle also. After my divorce, I wanted to find myself again, become happy with myself before I jumped into dating again. I didn't plan to find anyone for at least a year after my divorce if at all.  I did, however, have the desire to meet new people, date for fun and hang out. I had always been uncertain about finding someone through online dating, but had tried LDSSingles.com  and LDSPlanet.com in the past. Hanna found her husband, Dustin on LDS Planet, but I had heard Match.com was really good. I decided to give it a try and subscribed for 3 months on January 9. I found some guys nearby and engaged in conversation, but nothing connected or seemed like it was worth it. I found my now husband, Charles that same week, but he hadn't responded and wondered if he would. He looked familiar and he lived just 15 minutes away. A week later on January 16 he messaged me and we had our first date that weekend on Jan. 21.


By Feb. 2 we were in a relationship.  Not everyone shares my religious views, but you all know how important God is in my decisions. While I had never gotten a straight "yes" with my ex-husband. I received numerous "yes" answers in the temple with Charles being "the one" I should marry.
Charles and I share many similarities including our age and place as the baby in our families. I thought I knew what love felt like, I thought I knew that I would KNOW when I found the one before, but until I met Charles Knight I really didn't know.

On July 15, Charles took me to dinner at Capriletti's in St. George and then took me to the St. George Temple where he asked me to marry him. Of course, I said yes and we were married Nov. 4 at the Dixie Center. I was sad that the date didn't work in favor of many of my friends and family to join and celebrate with us, but it was a happy day! We hope to be sealed in the St. George Temple at the end of this year.


When I met Charles, we both seemed so familiar to each other and had lived around each other for years, but I knew the reason we hadn't met before then was the timing. I know now I was supposed to meet him when I did. All the relationships and things I've been through were supposed to happen. I can say I found my "Knight in shining armor!"

Career wise, I was laid off in August, which I took as the last time I would try my chance at journalism, because of how rough of a job it can be with not nearly enough pay. I was hired on at SkyWest Airlines in September, where I currently remain working in Maintenance Aircraft Records. I get to learn about and keep track of parts and maintence on the planes. It is quite enjoyable both for the work and the benefits to fly pretty much anywhere I want for little to nothing! Charles and I have already gone to Thermopolis, Wyoming to visit part of my mission and enjoy the hot spring there. We plan our first trip to experience Hawaii on my birthday in two weeks! Charles has always wanted to be a pilot and is considering flight school next year if everything works out.
When Charles and I got married we ended up giving Annabelle to a family with three other dachshunds. I had been noticing her temperament with babies not going well, which left us worried about how she would react to our future children. I didn't really know what to do. This was before I realized I could have gone to a behaviorist. We both had an issue with her constant barking and she had terrible separation anxiety from me while I was at work. A friend of a friend told me about the family she is now with. She's been there since November and LOVES her new human family and doggy siblings.

 I know now that she was meant to be there. She has a doggy family and a human family that can give her more attention than what We could provide her. It's been hard moving on without her as she helped me through some tough times and has been my baby. I know some who may not agree with the decision I made because I re-homed my pet, but it was MY decision and I'd be selfish to bring her back to me when I see her happier with her current family where she can play and get much needed attention. Just 5 weeks ago, Charles and I found Leo, an Australian shepherd/Pomeranian mix. We both fell in love. He has the perfect temperament toward children, barks only when he wants to encourage a dog to play with him and is very smart and trainable. He loves us both and has become the perfect dog that is meant to be with us and will do well when we start a family.

Life has it's ups and downs, brings new trials daily, but with my new husband, family and continued faith in my Father in Heaven and his son, Jesus Christ, I shall not fail. So grateful, especially at this time of year, for my Savior and his sacrifice on the cross and the Garden of Gethsemane. I'm so grateful for his gift of the Resurrection that we too can overcome physical death. 

Only The Beginning...

A lot has happened since Christmas of last year.. I've been terrible with updating.

HEALTH

Since last year, I've felt so uncertain about what is going on with my health and what to expect from here on out. I didn't feel I was getting many answers from my nephrologist and I had crept into a depression. I had feelings of fatigue, weakness dizziness, confusion, and nausea very often. I have been on my medication, Afinitor, which was prescribed to me in 2014. I had begun at 10 mg and was at 7.5 mg at that time in my life. I had heard of alternatives, but my nephrologist wasn't sure if that alternative would work as he was only authorized in the one medication and didn't want to prescribe me something he was not certain about. In that time I had spoke with a group of others with my same condition as well as parents with children who also have my same condition. I was encouraged to meet with a doctor in Memphis, Tennessee, who is known to be the most well versed doctor in the country regarding Tuberous Sclerosis. He also is a nephrologist. My local nephrologist agreed that a second opinion might be helpful. I then did take the advice and took a trip to Memphis and met this doctor, who in my opinion is the best doctor I've ever met. I felt like my eyes were opened to understanding for the first time what condition I really have. I shared with him my concerns of depression and other side effects. I felt his concern, value of my issues and also he answered that I was on the best medication for the condition, but he lowered my dosage to 5mg. After my experience, Ashley was also able to go and have his concerns put to rest as he is still learning about how the medical condition will effect him. We are all doing the right things and Afinitor is the answer to keep any tumors located throughout the body at bay or from hemorrhaging etc..

LIFE

During this same time, My husband at the time was struggling to live with my depression. He had done many things to try to lift my spirits. One of these things was getting me my current miniature dachshund/pug mix puppy, Annabelle. She become my emotional support animal. Her unconditional love, and cuteness just made me feel the best I could in my situation. Over time though things didn't get much better between my husband and I. Our differences were just too much and understanding each other didn't seem to really come. I went to the temple one day and put our names in the temple, hoping the answer to help us feel love and happiness in our marriage again would come. Two days later a decision to file for divorce came instead.. I was devastated... I failed a marriage, I thought. I'm getting a divorce. I mourned, I cried.. I begged.. But in the end, God opened my eyes. I wasn't really happy.. I hadn't been happy or as happy as I have been before at all in my marriage. Royal and I really just weren't compatible enough to make things work. He was hurt, I was hurt for so many different reasons and there was no way we could really make that hurt go away without separating. 

The divorce finalized in a week.. God knew we both needed to move on and heal.. It has not been easy, but I am finding I was really depressed in the marriage. I look back and yes, I had been in love and happy, but it didn't last. I also have learned now that I will know when the right one has come a long. As painful as it all has been, Heavenly Father has opened his arms to me, as have my friends and family.. Also, Annabelle has been my comfort, my little love that no matter what she'll always be there.. Hanna, my college best friend, has opened up her home and family to me to stay until I find out where my journey will take me. This is only the BEGINNING I have realized. At times the thought comes "You made the wrong choice.. You married the wrong guy.. God showed you he wasn't the right one.." But I know I married for a reason and have learned so much..  It is nothing to be ashamed of to be divorced. The whole point of life is to learn, move on and keep growing. 

I've had so much inspirational scriptures, songs, quotes and such loving friends, family, strangers and ward members embrace me and help me begin to heal and get through those tough times. I'm so grateful for that and that I will learn to love me for me again and be the ME  that I know I am and be happy with it.

I still continue to work at Stephen Wade Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, but am finding out if that is where I am to stay or if God has other plans. I felt Cedar City was where I need to be, but am finding if a job here, more north or elsewhere is also right. I've had the impression that I need to go back to school at some point, but have not felt exactly when yet. I know God will make it possible and let me know. Dental Hygiene has been on my mind as a possible career for a long time, but I've also considered getting back in to journalism. 

"....whosoever shall put their trust in God shall be supported in their trials, and their troubles, and their afflictions, and shall be lifted up at the last day." -Alma 36:3

I know I was meant to marry or be a part or Royal's life for a time. I know we both learned and grew. God has a purpose for all. I am grateful for it and him. It hurts that things ended in such a terrible way, but I have found forgiveness. I wish him so much happiness wherever he goes. We both deserve it. It just didn't work with each other. I know I am a Child of God.... 

I had an experience that really opened me up to finding myself.. After the divorce and after moving to Cedar City I sat in a combined Young Single Adult Ward church service and felt awkward and scared.. I sat where I had been 5 years prior or rather even just 3 years prior.. I am not that same person.. I didn't know how to deal with the fact I was not sure what the next part of my life held.. That next few days I met with my counselor who has been helping me through this and counseled with the Lord as well.. I went in to talk to my General Manager about another matter and thinking the time talking would be a minute he pulled me into his office to ask how I was doing.. We began talking.. The conversation turned to religion and I again felt my testimony come out and reminded myself.. "Holly you know who you are and what is important." I had a great ward when I was married, but I had lost my connection with God. Wasn't reading or praying much... and in time I lost myself.. I started coming back... I then had a few times that I have gotten back into flirting.. I felt guilty for a moment like it was too soon, but having that feeling of knowing it was OK that I'm single again and I can be happy with being me and socializing again.. Helped. I know that I won't be ready for a huge commitment (relationship or marriage) for some time.. Months or year at least, but I know I can be comfortable in my own skin.. I know who I am..

That next Sunday.. I went to my Young Single Adult Ward and my smile and feeling of happiness came back.. I felt so welcome and so comfortable there. The bishop smiled at me.. Others were so welcoming.. I bore my testimony.. The spirit had returned..

THIS IS ONLY THE BEGINNING.... I CAN'T WAIT TO WRITE THE REST OF MY STORY...

A Letter To Jesus

When I was younger I had the tradition every year where I would write a letter to the Savior - a birthday letter to give Birthday wishes and thank him for all he has done for me in my life. I would leave it face open in a spot on my dresser or the fridge so, in my thoughts, he would see it easier and come read it.

It has been years since I have kept up with this tradition, but this year I couldn't help think of doing so.  So here is my letter to my Savior, full of gratitude and great wishes as we celebrate his birth into the world. (I speak in respect of Him in language of prayer).

To My Dearest Savior and Redeemer,

It has come to that time of year, Christmas. It is a time known to celebrate thy birth into this world. Not everyone realizes or sees it as that time, but I cannot go through a year without remembering the reason for the season. Remembering the sacrifice thou hast made for each and everyone of us for the love that thou has. For thy arrival and the joy it has brought to many.

This year I give my thanks to thee and wish thee a Happy Birthday.. I only hope it can be happy as thou seest those remembering thee and giving to others to show that remembrance of the gift thou hast given.

I can definitely say to thee that I am grateful for the gift of the Atonement thou hast given unto me. I know I don't always understand it fully and I continue and strive to understand it day by day and year after year. This year, has been a tough one and a blessed one. As thou does know I have had my tough moments as I work to be better in every way. I am so grateful for the gift thou has given unto me that I can be forgiven for the things I have done wrong this year that I can make them right and be more like thee. This is my greatest desire!

The example of love, charity, and acceptance of all. I have always known that is what thou does ask of all of us. I am clay in thy hands and I pray to become the mold thou does see me to be an example to those who care about that have not found thee or might need thee in their life and have lost sight of thee.

This world is turning cruel and I'm sure that brings thee sorrow. I pray that I can give a gift to bring   love, care and acceptance to those who are in need of it. That I also might become better and turn to thee even more to learn of thee and become more like thee. I know I am not perfect and will never be, but I will always strive to treat others as thou would have them be treated and share thy love with others.

I am also grateful for the blessings brought this year. I am blessed with a great job and now a wonderful husband. We struggle at times to make it by, but remember to put thee first to remember the things that bring us joy and a great life each day. I am blessed with a great family both on my husband's side that has accepted me since day one and my own family who has taught me since I was born who thou art and the love thou brings into our lives. They have taught me to always remember thee and be the best that I can be.

Lord, I am blessed. It is because of thee that I am blessed. I know that I am a Child of God. To thee and our Father in Heaven I give thanks for my good health that keeps me going and living my life. I am grateful for the things in life I can enjoy. My husband, our animals, friends, Ward family and families as previously mentioned.

It is thee that came into the world to teach charity, love, kindness and mercy. Thou did suffer that we might be able to overcome our imperfections and be forgiven of our sins and "Though {our} sins are like scarlet they shall be white as snow,"(Isaiah:18). 

I know the verse to be true. Thou have also risen from the dead and because of this we are also given this gift. Thou hast made it possible for us to do so also. Thou has also made it possible for us if we accept thee and do as thou would have us do on this Earth that we might return to live with thee. I know this. I don't have much to give for this season, but striving to be an example of thee I hope will be enough..

Happy Birthday My Lord, My Redeemer. I thank thee so much for all thou does do for me and those I love.

Love Always,

Holly Renae Coombs Donnelly

A Change Would Do You Good

I wanted to be an author of children's books when I was 7 years old.
My mother would remember I would write stories all the time and my sister would remember my nose buried in some book..
When I was 11 years old, I started writing little newspaper articles for fun.
When I was a junior in high school, I wrote for our cute little newspaper that my English teacher started for us. It was then I knew I for sure wanted to pursue journalism and so I did as I attended SUU from 2004-07 then 2009-13 after my mission. I took on a job at the Iron County Today for 6 months in 2014 and was at St. George News for 8 months.

It was odd for me to think after dreaming of being the next Katie Couric that I would change and pursue a different career, but God had other plans for me.

As the work piled on so did the stress. Mental, physical and spiritual issues did also as I took on nearly 70 hours working hard at my dream career as a journalist. Not feeling comfortable, needed, appreciated and more were other issues I was having in my workplace. I was not happy in what I once thought would be the career I'd live and love the rest of my life. Sensitive subjects were put in the spotlight that I didn't feel I needed to put out there. My love for it all had began to fade.

I pursued other options and found myself hired at a car dealership working as an Internet Sales Rep. The hours, environment and work were all comforting to me and still is. At Stephen Wade Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram I am thriving and enjoying my life. Never did I think I would be placed here. I used to fear salespeople or ever being one myself, but here I am loving it.

Everyone needs a car, I pondered. I'm not selling things that people don't need like I did at a previous job. My job is to set appointments for people to come buy and answer questions they may have and sometimes help in the process of conducting a sell over the phone! :)

As I got into the job, I found myself trading my Chrysler 200 in for this beauty I'd always saw myself getting, but here I could finally afford it! :)

(VW Beetle w/ Turbo engine)

I am so blessed for a healthy life, a God that loves and takes care of me, a family that loves me, friends that are always there for me, a boyfriend who loves me even though I am crazy.. and on this day a mother who has always taught me the right way to go in life.

(Christmas  2013)