Highlights of 2015

2015 was an incredible year and I am so proud of all that I achieved! As I was reviewing my year, I could help but smile at all the things the Lord blessed me with. I thought I would share my top 10 highlights even though it was almost impossible get my list down to ten.

1. London

I started my year off in London for my study abroad. I loved being able to explore the city and travel with ease. I was also the marketing intern at The Langham, London while being a part-time student. So many wonderful things happened that I could spend a whole day telling you about it and still not finish. Luckily, I kept a blog of my experiences so you can read all about my adventures and the best part of my life so far. I went on some crazy adventures, made some great friends and finished my undergraduate degree.

2.  The Brit Awards

One the the highlights during my stay in London was attending the Brit Awards. I went by myself by it was still epic. I was able to see Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran, Sam Smith, Paloma Faith, Madonna and more perform live. It was a magical evening that I will always remember. I love award shows in general so it was incredible to finally see one live.

3.  Twin Vacation

After my study abroad, I was lucky enough to be able to spend over a month traveling in Europe. One of my favorite parts of that time was when my sister Elizabeth joined me in Rome, Italy. We spent two weeks soaking in the sun and learning the history of Rome. I had such a fabulous time in Europe and I was happy to be able to share some of the experiences with my favorite person and other half.

4. Best Friends Take Europe

Before heading back to the U.S. I got to spend two glorious weeks in Europe with my two best friends. We were able to travel to three countries and make some wonderful new friends. I was so blessed to be able to end my vacation and celebrate our graduations. One of the highlights was going to an FC Barcelona game and seeing them accept their champions trophy and biking to the lookout over the city.

5.  Boyfriend

When I was in London, I met a really great guy. It took a little convincing after I left, but I finally made up my mind, took a leap and asked this guy to be my boyfriend. Spoiler alert: He accepted! It’s been a long 258 days but happiness knows no distance. I hate long distance more than I hate He Who Must Not Be Named but George is worth the struggle.

6. First Wedding

I was my sister’s plus one at her friend Lexi’s wedding. Lexi and James had a wonderful day set up for their guests. The wedding was absolutely perfect and there was a cookie reception that followed the service. Later that night, Elizabeth and I went to the reception and it was spectacular. Everything was handmade by the bride, groom and family members. Even the food for the reception was homemade! I had so much fun dancing and smiling. It was a perfect wedding for a perfect couple.

7.  Golin Internship

After three months of being unemployed, I finally accepted my first post-graduate position as a public relations intern at Golin. The position was in Dallas, Texas which was crazy because I had to move all the way across the country in under two weeks! The move was so worth it though because I was able to work on some incredible projects and meet some amazing PR professionals.

8. Church Family

When I moved to Texas, I didn’t know anyone. I decided that the best way to make great group of friends was to join a church. Through a quick Internet search I found Prestoncrest Church of Christ. I joined the young adult group and it was awesome. I made new friends and strengthened my relationship with God during the retreat.

9.  Thanksgiving in Mississippi

Allison, one of my friends from church, invited me to her home in Mississippi for Thanksgiving. She knew I was planning on spending the holiday alone, so she invited me home to celebrate with her! I had a great time road-tripping to Mississippi, meeting Allison’s family and riding a four-wheeler for the first time. I was so happy everything worked out and I was able to enjoy a Thanksgiving adventure.

10.  Christmas in Arkansas

My friend Lauren invited me to her house for Christmas so that I wouldn’t have to spend the holiday alone. The trip to Arkansas was a lot quicker than driving to Mississippi. I was so overwhelmed with the about of love and gifts I received from the family. I wasn’t expecting anything so Christmas morning was a shock to say the least. We didn’t do too much over the weekend but it was just a relaxing break I needed before the stress of moving begins.

2015 was a spectacular year down to the last day! I was so incredibly blessed and I can’t believe all that I was able to see and do. I can’t imagine a better year so I am looking forward to what 2016 has in store for me.

An Arkansas Christmas

Thursday morning, my friend Lauren, her sister Erin, Lauren’s two dogs and I headed out bright and early to visit her family in Alma, Arkansas. It was only a four hour drive but it took a little longer because we stopped for the dogs to take a break and for food. We arrived and everything went swimmingly. The dogs loved all the toys and clothes I got them and we spent the night chatting. I was happy to be included in the Schlabach family Christmas and being with her family in Arkansas got me in the Christmas spirit! Lauren’s mom even made a stocking for me. After a wonderful dinner, the family which included Lauren’s aunt, grandma and cousin and I went to see Christmas lights. The lights were gorgeous and one of the houses even had their own FM radio station so we could hear the music that coordinated with the lights without them blasting music.   The next morning it was Christmas! I didn’t think I would ever see the day when I had a Christmas without snow but it happened this year. We started the morning with breakfast, mimosas and a bible reading before opening gifts. I was surprised by how much I actually received! I got a stocking full of gifts and two other presents. It was an overwhelming amazing surprise. I was not expecting anything for Christmas until I returned to Wisconsin. They did the gifts a little different than my family and we all opened gifts at the same time. It made things go quickly but I also missed most of the gifts people received. Regardless, I felt so welcome and loved this Christmas. The dogs didn’t like the bones I got them as much as the toys but I’m sure the bones will find a good home with the neighbor dogs.    After gifts, we played a dice game called Farkle and the board game Life. I won Farkle but I didn’t win Life. In the board game, I did make quite a bit of money so hopefully that is foreshadowing my future. Since we got up pretty early for gifts, I did take a nap but later I went for a walk with the dogs to see more of the area. Alma was beautiful even though the trees had lost most of their leaves. It was pretty warm still and I was able to wear shorts in December. Not much happened again until it was dinnertime. Dinner consisted of enchiladas, pinwheels, rice, salsa and chips. The food was something different than my normal Christmas dinner and delicious. The rest of the day was full of chatting, card games and snacking. Looking back, I am in awe at how much food I consumed. That night was relaxing and I was looking forward to brunch in the morning.  We woke up early again and headed to brunch at Cracker Barrel. The food was delightful. I felt a little left out but I just listened to the conversations and tried not to be on my phone too much. I did get to try grits for the first time. I didn’t care much for them although they did taste better with jelly. When we left the restaurant, it was pouring rain but luckily I had my umbrella. I was extremely happy that I prepared because it was down pouring and Lauren’s grandma barely had a jacket on since it was still pretty warm. Once home, I was sad to find out the dogs tore apart some of my things. Luckily, all my medicine was fine. Since it was raining, we stayed in and played games. I won the game Phase 10 which was pretty neat. The day wasn’t too eventful but it was just what I needed. Lauren, Erin and I did get out of the house for a little while to meet up with one of their friends from town. We were all a little relieved to get out of the house. Her friend is a pharmacist so she had quite a few interesting stories so we ended up staying for a while. I learned a lot more about Lauren too. In an instant, it was Sunday morning. I never did get to sleep in because we had to get up early for church this time. The service was a little long with all the music but it was still a great morning.  It was my second time attending a Baptist church although this was the first time I actually remember the service since I was a child the last time. We went home quickly after the service though because Lauren wanted to eat and head out as soon as possible. Lunch was amazing. Lauren’s mom really outdid herself with all the cooking. I was a little rushed after lunch to pack up the car and head out on the road. I slept some of the drive, but we made it in great time despite the pouring rain the whole drive. Once home, I unpacked and ate dinner.  The reason we had to rush back was because Lauren was attending an event with her friends that evening. Soon after dinner I found out Lauren’s friends were delayed arriving to Dallas so she invited me to a podcast taping of Gilmore Guys! The podcast series consists of two guys talking about each episode of Gilmore Girls in detail and even sometimes with special guests. I have only seen a few episodes here and there of Gilmore Girls, but I thought the podcast was quite interesting and hilarious at points. The guys sang a lot more than I expected and it turned out to be a spectacular night. I was also happy I was able to see inside the Texas theater as well. The building was pretty neat. Seeing the live taping of a podcast was best end to a fabulous holiday weekend.

My break was quick but I absolutely loved it. I have been so blessed this whole year and I am looking forward to what’s to come. It is crazy to think that I will be leaving Dallas in less than a week to start my next adventure!

I’m moving to Madison!

I finally landed my first full-time job! Starting at C. Blohm & Associates means that I will not only be beginning a new chapter of my life but also moving to a new city. I have been to Madison a few times before but not for more than a weekend. Madison is going to be a new adventure and there are 5 reasons that I just can’t wait!

1. The Zoo

I love zoos so I am thrilled that there will be one in Madison. It will most likely be semi-closed since it is winter but there is no admission price so I can go any time I want! The Henry Vilas Zoo also has events throughout the year which is awesome. Most of the events are geared toward kids and craft themed but I am still a child a heart so I don’t mind. 

2. The Capital

I have only been to the state capital a couple of times and it was years ago. I am excited to go and get a tour. I’m not a fan of politics and the fighting that usually follows but it will be great to go back inside. I always thought the building was beautiful so I’m looking forward to seeing it in person again. My friend, Ben Joniaux, works for a Representative there too so I am hoping to be able to see where he works too. I missed Ben’s wedding so I am grateful to be living closer to him so that I can make up for the missed time. 

3. The Overture Center for the Arts

My budget is going to be pretty tight for the first year but after a while I will be able to go see plays, musicals and other shows. The Overture Center’s whole schedule isn’t available for 2016 but the center seems to get a good variety of Broadway and family productions. There are also some free events similar to the PAC in Dallas! Most of the performances are for children but I did see a few that would be enjoyable for the whole community.

4. Nature

I know you probably think I’m crazy to be enthusiastic about nature. It is a fair argument since I lived in the woods almost all my life but that is exactly why I am happy. There are state parks and gardens all around the city and the University. I want to check out the UW-Madison Arboretum, Olbrich Botanical Gardens, Allen Centennial Gardens and Governor Nelson State Park at some point and those are just the starting point. I may have to wait a little bit since I will be coming in winter but spring is going to be glorious.  

5. Location

I will have to drive to work everyday but I will also be living near the bus lines. I’m not sure how great the Madison bus system is but it will be nice to be able to save a little gas money sometimes and still be able to enjoy the city. I really haven’t spent much time in Madison so I am looking forward to exploring and not having to worry about parking. I am also only a 20 minute walk away from the football stadium. I don’t really plan on going to a game since I never became a Badger fan but I’m not against it.

There are so many more reasons I am absolutely thrilled to move back to my home state. These are the top ones so far but as I learn more about the city I am positive my list will grow!

4 Things

The week was full of stress. I had my allergies act up again causing me to feel miserable for three days straight. Despite the negative, four wonderful things did happen despite all the craziness.

1. I got a real job!

On Wednesday, I was offered a job to be the new Digital Coordinator at C. Blohm & Associates. I gladly accepted, so I will be moving to Madison, Wisconsin to start my new role in January. It was such a huge relief to be offered the position, and I am so blessed to be officially starting my career. My mom and sister even sent me an Edible Arrangement to celebrate the news. Edible Arrangements are my favorite flower/gift place so I was overjoyed to recieve my first one! 

2. Volunteering

I woke up bright and early on Saturday to rake leaves for some of the members of the church who needed help. I was looking forward to volunteering again and it always feels wonderful. I have to admit it was strange to be raking leaves in December. In Wisconsin, we are done raking leaves in late October. I sometimes forget it is December because the weather is so nice. I would have never thought I would be raking leaves in 70 degree weather. 

3. Christmas Party

Saturday evening I went to the church for the Christmas party. It was only the B1 group but quite a lot of people showed up. The night was a blast and I even won Green Bay Packer socks! I was ecstatic, so have no doubts that I will be wearing them when I’m back home in Wisconsin for winter. One of the girls make a cinnamon role French toast bake that was divine. It was so nice to relax and spend time with friends. One of my friends, Lauren, even invited me home for Christmas with her in Arkansas! I was overjoyed to be celebrating Christmas with my friends and I am blessed to be able to do it again.

4. B1 at the Arboretum

After church, a group of people from B1 went to the Arboretum. It was a little slow going but we made it there and had a nice time. The 12 Days of Christmas display was up and it was pretty outstanding. The rain made the flowers a little droopy but it was still beautiful. The group was getting on my nerves a little but it was a must see and I was glad I went.  

I had another good week in Dallas. I can’t believe in a few short weeks I will be going back to Wisconsin. Dallas has been incredible but I am looking forward to my next adventure in Madison.

DART 101

In Dallas, I use the DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) to get around the city. The DART pass includes both the train and the bus but there are different passed you can get to determine how far you can travel. I use the monthly local pass that I purchase though the GoPass mobile application.

While using the DART, there are five main takeaways that I have gained from the experience. Whether you are coming to Dallas and are interested in the DART or are curious about my experience, just keep in mind I only used specific routes and the experience may be different in other areas.

1. The bus is usually late

There is not much to elaborate on other than the fact this statement 95% true. I have had few instances where the bus was on time but I know it does happen. I would still suggest trying to be about five minutes early just so you don’t feel rushed. The bus stops also have a number to text with a code specific to the stop so you can get live updates. The updates are usually accurate but I have had the information be mistaken. One time, the bus never showed up and I had to wait 30 minutes for the next bus. If you are wondering about the train, I have noticed that it runs on time unless there is a delay but it is announced on the monitors.

2. The facilities are moderately clean

Now I’m going to be honest, the bus and train seats are this weird pattern so it’s hard to tell if they are clean. I have never gotten anything gross on my pants and there are rare occasions were seats will be visibly dirty. I doubt the seats are cleaned but I like to hope. I have rarely seen garage on the bus or train floor. The train stations are pretty run down and dirty in my area but the stops downtown and in the areas with more tourism have less garbage. I have seen people cleaning but the DART isn’t used frequently so I would assume the cleaning staff is minimal.

3. Be patient or you will be forced to

The DART is hardly used except during the fair and other events. When I first started riding the bus, I would be the only one on my bus for my whole commute. That has since changed but the inconvenient times did not. The bus doesn’t run often except during work hours on weekdays. I live about a 10 minute drive from my work but my commute takes about an hour.  Bus schedules on the weekends are worse. The bus runs every half hour during peak and every hour at night and early morning. The train runs every 10-15 minutes always so that is never an issue. I can easily get downtown but anywhere else can be a challenge.

Riding the bus forced me to be patient and to plan ahead so I am not doing anything last minute. I used to be so anxious and stressed every time I was on the bus but I finally gained some patience. Believe me; it did wonders so try to go in with patience. If you stay calm and plan, things will be dandy. The DART isn’t perfect but when it comes to traffic nothing is certain. Just take a breath and embrace the journey.

4. Not many people use the DART

As I briefly mentioned before, not many people use the DART.  As a result, most of commuters in my area don’t always look the greatest.  I have also noticed most of the people are in an ethnic minority group. That being said, this may not be the case everywhere and there is always a good mix of people.

There are definitely people that look sketchy but that is common in every mass transit situation. After being a commuter for three months in London, trust that I have seen worse and I have felt more uncomfortable. I have always felt safe on the DART but I have been concerned sometimes. People are going to ask for money, talk loudly to themselves or just walk to close to you for no reason. Take it in stride and be aware.

5.  Say Thank You

Whenever I ride the bus, before I exit, I say thank you to the bus driver. It is not a rule but it is always nice to see people smile. Kindness goes a long way and genuine gratitude will never hurt. I can get frustrated sometimes with cars doing dumb things around the bus and the light that you can just never through. Just imagine what the driver goes through day in and out.

While the DART isn’t perfect I am thankful for the driver and train conductors who make commuting even a possibility for me. Without the DART, I would have never been able to come to Dallas.

Keep these takeaways in mind if you ever find yourself using the DART. If you never plan on using the DART, remember to be patient during your commute and to be kind to those around you. It is easy to let the little things get to you but stay strong, stay happy and stay kind.

A Week Of Photos

I was so incredibly blessed this week that I could have honestly typed for hours and still not fully explained everything wonderful that happened. As I looked through my phone at the end of the week, I realized that I had captured the perfect photo to highlight the best moments.

This time around I’m going to do something a little different and share with you my week through photos.

On Tuesday, I went with Abby and Ian to our last Porch church service of the year. I can believe how quickly time flew but I am glad I got to share it with these two wonderful people!

It was a crazy week at work but I still managed to have fun. I even had the chance to test out a few of my photography skills for a new project.

Thursday after work, I headed near downtown to get frozen yogurt with some of my church friends. It was nice to chat with them and to get up to speed on how everyone was doing.

The work week came to a close quickly and it was already time for Golin’s holiday party. It was wondrful to relax and enjoy the evening with my colleagues. My friend, Lauren, was also able to attend and make the night that much more fun!

On Saturday, I woke up bright and early to volunteer. A group of friends from church and I met near Uptown Dallas to help put together food care packages.

I finally got a chance to take my first BIG Dallas photo!

Saturday evening I went to Klyde Warren Park and saw the first lighting of the holiday Christmas tree.

After the celebration at the park, I walked over the the PAC for the Reliant holiday event which included a performance by The Jersey Boys!

My week ended with an evening out with friends and my normal trip to church on Sunday. I was truly blessed this week. I am looking forward to what’s to come while enjoying the rest of Dallas.