Wow, my first journal entry. I can honestly say that I never thought I would start an online blog. But then my dear 'ole mom started one and inspired me to start writing. I'm thinking it will be a great way to get things out. I wish that I could write like my mom, with all her wit and charm, but I'm not quite that talented. I will start out by giving you a small taste of what my life is like….

I’m 23 years old and was born and raised in Kansas. I am an only child and have the best parents a kid could ask for. We didn’t always get a long great while I was growing up, but they have become my best friends and my favorite drinking buddies! I grew up on a farm, so some might say that I’m a little bit of a tom-boy. I believe that is a correct analysis. Don’t get me wrong, I like pretty things, and I do wear make-up, but I’m very far from being prissy. I love my Carhartt bibs and beer too much to be prissy.

On December 31, 2005, I was married to the most wonderful man in the world, Brent. Our wedding was a spectacular event, but the reception was a cut-above. I mean, what could be better than being surrounded by your closest friends and family, drinking free alcohol, on the biggest party night of the year?! I can’t believe we’ve been married over a year now. Time certainly does fly! And no, there are no little kiddies on the way-not YET. Why is that as soon as you get married, everyone in the free world feels the need to ask you WHEN YOU’RE POPPING OUT A BABY??? Has anyone ever considered the fact that it does a couple good to spend at least ONE year together, alone, as a married couple, with NO children?? Don’t get me wrong, I’m very excited to start a family. But first and foremost, I’m not ready to give up drinking, and God knows I’d have to do that if I got pregnant. Also, we are currently renting a house and would really like to own our own house before any babies come along. We’ve been real estate hunting, but so far haven’t found anything to fulfill our fancy. While Brent and I do not have children yet, we do have a dog, who we consider our child. We have a blue-heeler pup named Maggie. She is the love of my life! I don’t know what I would do without her. It’s funny, I was never really much of a dog person before I got her, and I wouldn’t dream of my mouth and a dog’s mouth ever coming in contact. But my how I love wet, slobbery kisses from my baby. And, she does eat off my fork. (It’s gross, I know.)

While I’m not at home with my hubby and doggie, I’m off making a living, working for the Kansas State Department of Education. I’ve been here since last October and I LOVE my job. We have one of the smallest state agencies, so the atmosphere is very laid-back and close-knit. I have made some great friends since working here and it’s great to know that the work you do makes a difference in a child’s life. When I’m not working, I’m doing homework. Yes, you heard right. I’m 23 years old and STILL not done with college. But that’s a whole other story…..