and it's January 9th

Well today was my last first day of school. After over 20 years of getting up and going to school everyday, I am not quite sure how I feel about being so close to the finish line. I don't think it has really hit me yet but I expect a combination of relief, accomplishment, satisfaction, fear and anxiety will arise in the next few months. I am so thankful for the opportunities I have been given to further my education. I have made great friends, been taught by inspirational individuals and even learned a little along the way. I am excited to see what doors will open for me following graduation and the bar exam, but I won't get ahead of myself and am going to attempt to push through the home stretch this last semester.

Today is as I am sure all of you know the BCS national championship game. My whole family, excluding Kevin, me, Charles and Dixie who are holding down the fort in Birmingham, has traveled to New Orleans for the big game. Now, I am going to let you in on a little secret: I couldn't care less who wins tonight. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy SEC football and I will spend a Saturday watching games with the best of them (This is probably a good thing seeing as how I married a Houston). I have even been to a national championship game. In 2010, my dad and I traveled out to Pasadena to watch Alabama take on Texas.

All that being said, my love of football comes from the way it can bring people together. My fondest football memories involve friends and family, good food and good beer. When my dad and I went to Pasadena, the trip was special because we had the opportunity to spend time together and explore a new city. Who won a football game had no bearing on how special our trip was. Since meeting Kevin, I have been to several Auburn games. We have seen Auburn play Kentucky in Lexington, been to an SEC championship game at the Georgia dome, stayed in a game day condo in Auburn, watched my alma mater lose to the tigers in Jordon Hare, and sat in a Super Suite for the Chick-fil-a bowl. While Auburn won each of the games, the score of the game is not what made the games special. What makes each of these experiences special is being with my husband and spending time with good friends. What a bunch of eighteen and nineteen year olds do on a football field is immaterial but the memories you make with family and friends watching said eighteen and nineteen year olds will last you a lifetime.

So tonight, I hope all the fans, keep things in perspective. Have fun, be safe, and savor the moment. Be grateful for another day with the people you love. Wherever you are and whoever you are with, Geaux Tigers, Roll Tide and cheers. May the best team win!

Here are a few pictures from our to San Diego, LA and Pasadena two years ago