Did that just happen? Oh it did? Oh, okay.

Today was one of the most epic days of my life. 

It started by taking my toddler, second cousins to the zoo. The weather could not have been more glorious and going to the zoo is just a glorious event in itself. 

And then, the most ridiculous thing that could ever happen to me happened. I don't know why random things like this happen to me, but they do. A lot.

I've been craving fried rice like a pregnant woman (I read more and more that cravings aren't to satisfy a nutritional need, anyhoo) for about a week so my friend Allie and I went to a hibachi restaurant, Osaka, in Collierville, TN. 

As we're leaving, we both notice two men looking at us, but didn't think anything of it. Girls know that this happens, guys, stop doing it. 

One of the men came running out of the restaurant after us. Oh boy. 

Let me take a brief moment to paint you a picture of said man: 30 something, Mexican, Affliction T-shirt, and obvious designer jeans. 

Okay, now to continue to the beginning of the crazy. 

Man: "How old are you?" - No good can ever come from this question

Allie: "What?"

M: "How old are you?"

Katherine (me): "He's asking how old we are." -I allow Allie to do the talking because she has the capacity to deter men which is an area where I fall short due to my inability to be mean to strangers

A: "Twenty-one..."

M: "Do you want to be a model on a new Spanish-English network?"

A: "Eh, no, that's okay, but thank you." 

Parked outside of the entrance (not in a spot mind you, but on the side of the actual entrance) was a garish orange and white Hummer. After a good chuckle over what had just happened, I looked at it and told Allie that the Hummer had to be his. She pretty much told me I was being racist and just knew that it wasn't his. 

I was feeling conflicted heading back to the abode because all of these "what ifs" started flooding my head. A) I'm a journalism student and didn't know if I could somehow benefit and B) life has taught me to not pass up random opportunities without investigating. Noticing that I was torn and slightly upset with my own hypothetical dilemma, Allie told me that she would be more than happy to turn around and go back. Of course as we almost reach our destination, we came to the conclusion to go for it. 

I pathetically stroll back into Osaka over to the man's table and told him that we had thought about it that we would like his contact information. He tells us to follow him. To where? None other than the above-mentioned Hummer. Yes. 

First, he tells us that he owns clubs and that he can get us in fo free! and precedes to hand us passes to SENSES. Oh my goodness. Describing his production company he starts name- dropping: Beyonce, 50 Cent, Pitbull, Daddy Yankee?, Jay-Z etc. He works with different clubs and artists and wanted us to be in Pitbull's video which his videos have featured the Hummer we were standing next to. 

It gets so much better.

He pulls out a flyer to show us an example of what he does and... haha... it's all of these women, obviously exotic dancers, featuring one woman with watermelon-sized lady parts. I'm pretty sure he saw the horror/shock in our eyes and told us "20 pounds, Guinness Records." Oh good grief, is this really happening? 

M: "Do you like to dance?"

A: "Katherine likes to dance!" -Awesome

M: "You go up and you'll dance for five hours and you get lots of money. No one touches you, you'll just take pictures with guys, but there are body guards."

He keeps telling us about where all of his clubs are and where we could travel to for shows and videos and all I can respond with was "Well, that sounds legit." 

More and more talk/name dropping, we thank him and he tells us to call him. 

Things learned through this experience:

Money is money

It is always worth at least exploring all opportunities that present themselves

A man wants Allie and I to be strippers

College is not needed for a fulfilling, well-paying career

I love college

*Note: This is going to make me sound like a prude, I'm not, but I'm going to sound that way. 

"Man I love college, and I love drinking, I love women, I love college.

I can't tell you what I learned from school, but I could tell you a story or two.

Um, yeah of course I learned some rules, like don't pass out with your shoes on,

and don't leave the house til the booze is gone and don't have sex if she's too gone,

When it comes to condoms put two on, then tomorrow night find a new JAWN

Hold the beer bong, nothing wrong with some fun, even if we get just a little too drunk. Time isn't wasted when you're getting wasted"

These are the lyrics to a song called "I Love College" by Asher Roth.   

First off, ugh. Really?? 

Recently, I have been considering how blessed and fortunate that I have the opportunity to receive a college education.  This may not be accurate, but I read that only 15% of Americans go to college and I'm sure way less of the world even has that chance. 

I consider myself to be an average college student.  I make decent grades, I'm involved with a few organizations on campus, and I love meeting people and spending time with friends.

Surprisingly, many people see me as an oddity, though.  

"You don't drink?" "You're a virgin" "You don't smoke weed...or do any drugs?" "Really?" 

Really.  Yes, since I've turned 21, I have enjoyed the ability to socially drink, but it's not an every weekend event and I don't drink to the point of no return.

Yes, college is the time to live your life, try new things, meet new people, and find who you really are.  With all that, of course you're going to things you wouldn't have expected and some things that you regret.  We all have.

But I just don't understand the lifestyles of some college students.  We have been given the opportunity to receive something that some people can only dream about.  A college education opens up so many doors.   

If you are fortunate enough to be in college, please take it seriously.  Yes, have fun, but also remember why you are there.  

I'll leave you with my slight edits:

Man I love college, and I love learning, I love education, I love college.

I can tell you exactly what I've learned from school, and tell you a story or two.

Um, yeah of course I learned some rules, like don't let friends drink and drive,

And don't give the creepy guy your number and make sure he doesn't see where you've gone.

When it comes to class, don't skip, then don't wait an hour before to study for the test.

Hold the alcohol, nothing wrong with sober fun, even if we don't get drunk.

Time is wasted if you're wasted in college.

 

Love each other, the world, and yourselves!

And your education! 

Spilling the truth about Teacup Pigs

Precious, aren't they?? 

When I first saw these "Teacup" pigs, I immediately looked everywhere to see where I could get one. 

How awesome would it be to have a pocket-sized pig running around your house??

During my research, a terrible truth surfaced: "these are just normal potbellied pigs that have been chronicaly underfed and malnourished in an attempt to keep them small."

These pigs will only live for five years due to health problems. 

According to SCAMPP, a pot-bellied pig organization, "At the present time, and to our knowledge, the "teacup" or "micro-mini" pig DOES NOT exist, nor has any one successfully bred a healthy and normal pig this size."

This is so sad and terrible. It is incredible what people will do to have a fashionable pet.  This is cruelty to a defenseless animal.

Let's end this by educating people and letting them know what has actually been done to these animals!!!

Article on Teacup pigs

Love each other, the world, yourselves, and today, PIGS!!!

Thoughts on Valentine's

Happy Valentine's Day everyone!

Soo as a hopeless romantic, I lurve me some Valentine's Day!

For those of you in love, celebrate the heck out of it! And for all of you bitter, cynical people, don't be lame, celebrate it for the love that you will one day have. 

I don't think that Valentine's should be restricted to just romantic love.  This is the first time since ooh, 8th grade that I haven't had a Valentine and I am soo okay with that.  I have so much love in my life and I am thankful for it everyday, but I like that today is a day specifically set aside for it.

Love is a treasure and it should be treated as such.  I am so thankful for the love from my God, family, friends, my dog (yes, my dog), past romances, and my future husband.  I haven't even met the guy, but I am already head-over-heels for him. 

So go out there and celebrate the heck out of love! 

LOVE each other, LOVE the world, and LOVE yourselves!

I've started sketching again, yay!

I'm going to document it in stages. I decided this after I got to this point. Oh well. 

Dave Barnes: An interview

God loves me and let me interview Dave Barnes. If you thought he was fantastic before, meeting the guy is 10 times better. 

Barnesby is genuinely kind and just plain hill-air-e-us! 

Here's the video.

Love each other, the world, and yourselves!

Creeper Blog

So, by request from a friend, I'm going to start blogging about my experience with creepers. Past skirmishes to be posted soon. 

I'll start from events which took place on Saturday:

Location: Gay Street on my way to interview Dave Barnes

Attire: Cute, modest shirt with jeans and my cowboy boots

Encounter: Homeless man stops and tells me "Honey, you're gorgeous! You should be on a magazine. I mean it, you're beautiful! You should be on magazines!"

Location: The Valarium-outside the men's bathroom

Attire: Same as before except for less modest jeans

Encounter: Guy walks up, puts his arm on the wall and says,

"So you go to school here right?"  

My response "Yes."

"And this party has nothing to do with your major does it?"

"No"

"What is your major?"

"Broadcast journalism"

*Stephen comes back, I grab his hand and walk away from the creep scene*

Put that puppy to bed. Seriously, just a hint kiddos, if a girl is waiting by the guys' bathroom, chances are SHE'S WAITNG FOR A GUY. I don't know, maybe it's just me. 

Location: The Valarium-throwing it down on the dance floor

Attire: Same as before

Encounter: While I'm shaking what my mama gave me, some rando comes from nowhere and starts trying to grind up on my goods. Before I could even realize what has ensued, Rachel and Stephen grab and hover. Sigh, my friends are the best.   

Ode to those who made me me

So lately, life has been sawweeeet! I've been pretty successful in my ventures and it made me start to really appreciate those in my life who have made me the person I am today.

First and foremost, my fam. 

My mother- Debra has taught me to kind, compassionate, and understanding. My mother is one of the sweetest and most genuine people I have encountered. She is constantly, and sometimes annoyingly, putting others before herself. Through her, I have learned to treat others with respect and to appreciate them for who they are. Her willingness to give of herself to others is truly inspirational. Like others that I will mention, she is always interested to learn, even if it is something that is totally insignificant to her. One of my favorite things about her is that she let's me teach and share new things with her. She is without a doubt my biggest fan and cheerleader. Oh and there's that whole she birthed me thing, that was pretty cool. 

My father- Jimmy has fed my need for knowledge and intellectual understanding. This man is too smart for his britches and that is due to the fact that he always has his nose in a book. 9 times out of 10, it's the bible. He has taught me to have a better understanding of my faith and to get to know the God that I follow. He has always been expectant of me and it makes me push myself further. Although at many times annoying, he is my biggest critic, which has taught me to reflect on my work and constantly be looking for improvements. I'm very curious and have a thirst for all kinds of knowledge, and that one goes to Jim Bob. 

My grandfather- Clifton Grady Hollis was the greatest person I think I will ever encounter in my entire life. I can't even attempt to credit him for all that he did for me. He was my best friend and mentor. I have never met someone who has lived their faith out the way that he did. Every person, no matter how insignificant their meeting might have been, was touched by this man's kindness and love. His funeral was more of a celebration than grieving. People I have never met before were witnesses to his generosity and love for others. He taught me patience, a love of horses and sweets, a love for others, and a love for God. My grandfather taught me the pleasure of quiet and peace. When we were together, we didn't have to always talk, we just enjoyed each other's company. He also made me hungry for a knowledge of the world I live in. We had countless discussions about birds, plants, and everything from A to Z. I miss him more than I can express. 

My brothers- Christopher and Jonathan have always been there to knock me down. Whether it was beating me up, beating me at games, or calling me out for being a jerk, these two have always kept me humble. Both being very successful athletes, it pushed me to be better so that I might also have some limelight. At the same time, it taught me that I am not the only human being on this earth with talent and to be grateful with whatever success I am blessed with. Jonathan's jolliness teaches me to always count the good and Christopher's logic teaches me to have a realistic view. Although we have had our differences, I know that these two will always be there and will protect me from whatever tries to harm me. I feel a great sense of accomplishment when I make either laugh. 

Now to those that I have chosen to be my family. 

Allie Mounce- BFFL since the fourth grade. Brought together through our love of all things animal. The thing I credit her most for is my confidence in who I am. She is constantly questioning me about the things I believe in and has always pushed me to actually know my true self. She has also taught me to take new experiences and run with them. There are always new ideas and ways of thinking with this girl. I am constantly amazed at her eclecticness. Tolerance is also a huge thing with her and I have become less ignorant because of it. Allie also allows and encourages me to be 6 years old, a side of myself I never want to lose. She will be in my life forever.  

Laura Hoffman- Roommate for two years, buddies since the Garrison days. Laura has taught me fierce loyalty. The first day we lived together, we became each other's protectors and sisters. Like Allie, she taught me to look at things from an analytical perspective to see the whole picture, to consider others' feelings instead of my own. She also taught me how to look like a girl, thanks. Naturally, we had our tifts, through them she taught me to be honest and selfish with my feelings. Thanks to her, I have learned how to handle conflict and to be up front with people (many a guy's feelings have been spared as a result). My inner goofball was always welcomed and we shared oh so many obnoxious laughs. Try as she may, try as she might, she could never teach me to spell. 

Jessica Jane- This chick is legit. We've been tight since we were two, and how many people can say that?? She has taught me to be a friend through thick, thin, distance, different lives, and whatever else might strain a relationship. I know that every time I see her, Jessi will make me smile. She is my sunshine! Always bubbly, always awesome. Like everyone, her life is not perfect, things don't always go according to plan, but she is always resilient and doesn't let life get her down. Her attitude has taught that the shadow proves the sunshine and to not let my stuff bring others down. 

My d-group- too many to specifically name. I met these girls on a trip where I knew only one soul, but they opened their arms and hearts to me and it was love. These girls are too much for words. Too much beauty, too much talent, and too much awesomeness. Their accomplishments continue to impress and inspire me. Every one of them has a heart of gold and a true and sincere love for their Lord. I have grown up with them spiritually and in friendship. They truly are my little angels. 

Love each other, the world, and yourselves! 

Let's Go to the Movies

January 18th edition....

So, I'm kind of a fan of movies. Not a fan of the $9 price tag, but unfortunately there's not a lot I can do about that.

Movies I've recently seen: Slumdog Millionaire, Role Models, and the Curious Case of Benjamin Button.

Slumdog Millionaire- Awesome. My friend Clayton and I went to see "The Reader" but unfortunately due to technical errors were unable to. Fortunately, we scored two free movie passes and were allowed to see whichever movie we so desired that was playing. 

Anyhoo,  walking in, I had no idea what it was about let alone heard of it, thus I had low expectations. But oh was I wrong. It's a great story that follows a young, street urchin in India. He has advanced beyond expected in India's "Who Wants to be a Millionaire" and is accused of cheating. The movie reviews each question and shows how his unfortunate circumstances have led him to each answer. 

Although there are a few laughs and many moments of triumph, it is heartbreaking to get a glimpse into someone else's reality. This isn't a "based on true events" story, but still, I'm sure there is a very close representation of the actual lives of Indian children.   

To sum it up: funny, sweet, sad, triumphant, enraging, and satisfying.

Plus, the last scene may arguably be the best of any movie. Ever.

Slumdog Millionaire

Role Models- Good chuckle. My friend Brandon and I braved the "Dollar" (actually $4 now) theater to see this bad boy. I'll describe this one as a "bro-comedy." #1 reason: It stars Seann William Scott and Paul Rudd. Of course these guys are buddies and of course Seann William Scott plays the loosey-goosey frat type while of course Paul Rudd plays the uptight guy and of course they work for a ridiculous energy drink company telling kids not to do drugs.

Well, of course they find themselves in legal trouble and in order to stay out of jail, they must complete some community service hours (150 I believe). The duo grudgingly are signed up for a mentor or "role model," if you will, program. And of course they are paired up with the two most difficult "lils" in the place. 

Things get off to a rocky and quite humorous start and of course everyone is happy in the end. 

To sum it up: funny, at times vulgar, bro-manish, and sweet.

Role Models 

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button- Fantastic. The way this movie was received by various people was interesting. I heard many mixed reviews from others, some ranging from not great to "the greatest film of the decade." But whatevs, I couldn't pass up seeing it. Hello, Brad Pitt riding on a motorcycle with aviators, aging backwards, riding on a motorcycle with aviators.... 

Back on track. So this film was originally a short story written by F. Scott Fitzgerald and somehow ended up being a 2 hour and 48 minute film. Benjamin Button was born under "unusual circumstances" and appeared to be a man very advanced in his years. As his number of years increased, his physical appearance became more youthful. While Benjamin is a "child," he meets a young red-head named Daisy who changes his life forever. They become great friends, but the time comes for Benjamin to explore the world on his own. Through the years, Benjamin and Daisy stay in loose contact, but still think of one another. 

Eventually, their paths aligned and the two fall deeply in love. (This happens interestingly enough after Daisy's dance career comes to a premature end... I won't tell you how for the sake of not giving away too much plot, I'd want someone to show me the same courtesy. But this is interesting because F. Scott Fitzgerald's wife, Zelda Fitzgerald, at age 27 became obsessed with ballet. Perhaps was he trying to tell her something?) 

They go on to live happily until Benjamin's condition will no longer allow it. The last 20 minutes of the movie was a big boo-hoo-fest for me. 

To sum it up: funny, sweet, bitter-sweet, sad, romantic, original, and great.

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Love the world, each other, and yourselves!

My Long and Unexpected Road to Journalism

I'm not going to lie, this was totally inspired by someone else, but eh, whatever.

When I was younger, I wanted nothing more than to be a trophy wife with an incredible husband and to make beautiful little halflings with him. And horses.

But, of course, I knew I couldn't just count on that, so I decided out of my love for animals to become a vet. It only took one summer of working as a vet tech to crush all of my romantic dreams of saving the lives of animals. 

So I returned to UTC with no sense of direction or purpose. Grrreaaat. 

One spring, desperate to have some sort of guidance, I took a personality test and a career test. The results showed me, not to any surprise of mine, that I was creative, had many interests, and didn't like doing the same-old-same-old. 

What profession showed up as my supposed #1? Dentist. Being a germ-phoebe, that didn't quite fly. Others such as lawyer, pharmacist, and broadcaster all came up. What a well-spent $30.

Desperate to help her daughter in need, my dear sweet mother came to visit me to try and help me find my destiny. 

I will never forget this moment: my mother and I sat in the newly-renovated "Clarion" hotel (soon to become a Double Tree, mmm those cookies...) as she was flipping through the course catalog. Her face suddenly lit up and she clutched the catalog to her chest and she said, "I found it. I found your major."

Apprehensively, I scooted over to her and looked at what she had found. Communications? What is this about? Do I really need to learn how to communicate. Trust me, if you know me, I've got that one down pat. 

She told me no, look! As I took a closer gander, I saw all of these writing and television production courses. I like to write, my curiosity was peaked. 

The next semester I was enrolled in a news writing course. I did very well (not to brag, but I was the only one who had ever gotten an A in this professor's class, eh yeah) and enjoyed the heck out of it. My professor, Christy Murphy, may very well be credited for starting my thirst for news. She ran the Mocs News program and invited us to come out. I thought, why not. 

It was love. 

Twice a week I was in that studio either anchoring or in the control room. With the help and encouragement from Ms. Murphy, I had found my purpose. 

I decided that UTC was not going to help me grow into the journalist I wanted to be, so I made the very hard, but very God-inspired decision to transfer to UTK.

It has been incredible. There are many opportunities for me and I have met others just as passionate about reporting the news to the world as I am. 

I want nothing more than to change this world through knowledge. I believe that with love and understanding, this place could become a great place. Bad things happen, I want to understand why this is and to heal and prevent more of them from occurring. 

In short, without the help of my darling mother, Debra, and a few encouraging others along the way, I would not be as happy and as driven as I am right now.

Love each other, the world, and yourselves!