Mindful of Media

Around 730 am Thursday morning, I awoke like a child on Christmas to check my email about pending class cancellations and the possibility of the coveted Snow Day. Out of pure habit, I also found myself scrolling Facebook as well, where I stumbled upon this though-provoking post by a friend:

"Here’s a thought. What if on your snow day you decided to take a break not only from school but also from social media, entertainment and technology? What if you made a conscious decision to shut down your phone/computer, unplug the Television or even hide the Xbox controller? What would happen? Honestly I can't remember the last time I shut my phone off. Let alone, didn't view Facebook. Think about it. Really. Think."

I decided there was no way I would go without TV, computer, or my phone (ummm let's be real...), but I decided to take the Social Media Challenge. Still not sure if it was a sudden spark of motivation or being half asleep, but I proceeded to delete my Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram apps and vowed not to return for 24 hours. 

I eventually got a'movin a few hours later and went to do my first subconscious "check" on my phone. Just as I remembered my promise, some small unexpected thoughts occurred.

"I wonder how much snow ______ is getting."

"How was I going to know how all of my friends were spending their snow day?"

"How was I going to see all the awesome, antique tinted pictures of people playing outside?"

"How much FUN is everyone else having?"

"I wish I was _____ to hang out with ______."

Really?!?

But then I stopped myself. Why was I so concerned about what everyone else (particularly people who I'm vaguely even acquaintances with) is doing today? I can't go anywhere (thanks a lot, Q) so why make myself feel like I'm "missing out" when I could create my own memorable, relaxing snow day HERE that I truly enjoyed?

And that's what I did. 

Throughout the day, I was able to...

Read a novel, watch a classic chick flick, make all three meals, get a jump on some homework, surf Pinterest, tidy up my room, and even do a couple rounds of squats, push-ups, sit-ups for my "workout." Since I couldn't check up on those near and dear to me by scrolling through a news feed, I retaliated to others methods. I exchanged some texts with friends I hadn't communicated with in a while to catch up on their lives, and even (gasp!) CALLED and had wonderful, encouraging conversations with a few others. 

He'll call, right?

The best part of the day, however, was spending it with my roommate. With our crazy school schedules we don't get to see much of each other during the week, let alone hang out and catch up. Yesterday was a great opportunity for us to share a lot of laughs, watch the snow accumulate, have great discussions, and help each other from getting cabin fever :) I'm very thankful for times like these spent together, because there won't be many more!

Snowly crap! 

By bedtime, I was quite content with how I'd spent the last 16 hours. Reflecting on my decision, I also came to the realization that I really didn't miss social media that much, and I don't think it really missed me too much either. Sure, I had plenty of random tweet-worthy thoughts roll through my mind throughout the day that may have gotten a few likes, favorites, retweets...but I wasn't missing anything. Frankly, the world survived just fine without knowing my outfit changes consisted of pajamas --> over sized sweats --> pajamas or that our upstairs neighbor came down to complain of us being too loud. (Oops.) 

Don't get me wrong: I ADORE these inventions. They are great for keeping in touch with friends and allowing you to meet and get to know people that you wouldn't be able to otherwise. However, we have to remember that we are each living our own lives, and the grass is NOT always greener on someone else's Instagram. (Well, unless they use the Lo-Fi filter...)

 My daily devotion for February 21st out of "Jesus Calling" was perfect (as always), stating: 

"Trust and thankfulness will get you through this day. Trust protects you from worrying and obsessing. Thankfulness keeps you from criticizing and complaining: those "sister sins" that so easily entangle you." 

God made YOU a unique and wonderful creation, and you're exactly where He wants you to be in your life! So enjoy the moment staying constantly in conversation with HIM, as He'll always lead to your next step. I challenge you to go without social media for a day, a week, or maybe even a month and Build some Briges of your own. You never know what discoveries you'll make about yourself, your relationships, or maybe even see what you've been missing out on. At the end of it all, I'm not gonna ban myself from posting, tweeting or scrolling news feeds, but I'm definitely going to make it a goal to keep it to a minimum. A big thanks to my Facebook friend for your wonderfully inspiring post! If you decide to join me on the challenge, feel free to share how it went as I'd love to hear. 

 I hope all my fellow Midwesterners had a cozy day to spend inside with friends and family, and everyone else across the country is enjoying their warm weather, sunshine, and clear streets :)

Until warm weather returns,

Brigette 

So, what are you doing these days?

Well hellooooooo there!
I know, I know. It's been a while. I could blame my absence on several different factors, but I'll save my breath and cut to the chase. If you're ready to see what kind of schenanigans I've been into...
scroll on.

Just your typical Husker camp :)

Thompson Square concert in Louisville.
 Go Cards!

Willy and I taking a break from camps to
enjoy an gorgeous summer night.

After finishing my career as a volleyball player last December and graduating this spring, I've had to divert from my Lincoln routine that's come to be so familiar the last four years. This summer was nomadic, as I was fortunate enough to coach a number of volleyball camps across the state with my pal Jordan Wilberger. About half of the summer was spent at the Coliseum working Husker camps, but the other half was visiting great high schools in Nebraska City, Blue Hill, Ord, Ogallala, Alliance, and Scottsbluff. I also was lucky to take some mini vacations: quick trips home with my family, a week down in Louisville with Kaitlynn, and time down south in Dallas. Sadly, all fun (and sun!) must come to an end, so at the beginning of August, I packed up Rosie and headed east down I-80 to my NEW home in Omaha, Nebraska.

That was only the first load...

Since I stepped foot into my new apartment, it's been quite the transition stage. They say change is hard, but it really hits when you're not doing the same routine that you've been used to for the past four years. Regardless, it's allowed me to grow so much as an individual, and really find out what I'm made out of. Most importantly, my relationship with the Lord has grown tenfold, as He has been and always will be the constant in my life that I can depend on. Also, I am reminded that my life is a part of HIS plan and HIS timing, not my own. After almost 4 months of calling it "Homaha", I think I'm finally getting the hang of it. To give you a little taste of life in the Big O, here's a couple FAQ's...

"So, what exactly are you studying down there?"

Um, my life?

Officially official. 

The reason I decided to make this lovely move was to attend school at the University of Nebraska Medical Center as a Radiography student. Basically, I'm learning to take x-rays. It's a 21-month program that started in August and will finish up in May of 2014. There's 5 "semesters" (fall, spring, summer, fall, spring) that we complete until we are allowed to take Boards apply for jobs. Currently, we're in the clinic "working" from 8-4 on Monday and Wednesdays, and then have classes on Tuesdays, Thursday, and every other Friday. I've loved being in the hospital, getting hands on, and working with real patients. Our little class of twelve has become quite a tight group, and it's been awesome to get to know friends from all around the state and different backgrounds. It's crazy the first semester is almost complete...only a couple more weeks to go!

Who WOULDN'T want an x-ray from us?

Mentors and mentees

"So, how's life without volleyball?"

2011 B1G Champs! 

Alumni Night with my favorite Co-Captain :)

Maddie and I at Century Link Center

I don't think I could honestly answer this question, because I feel like my life has NEVER been without the sport, nor will it probably ever be. Not being a Husker this fall has certainly been different, and I miss it dearly at times. However, I couldn't have asked for a better career as a player and I'm happy to close that chapter in my life and transition more into the coach role.
From coaching club this spring and camps/lessons this summer, I've fell more in love with the game than ever. I've been able to get in the gym this fall by coaching personal lessons in Omaha and Friday night Academy sessions for VCNebraska in Lincoln. I'm also joining the 16's club world once again in January, but this year for G1 Club in Gretna and am SO excited to work with my new team!
 However, I still get my little playing fix when our class's intramural volleyball team takes on other UNMC programs on Thursday nights as Team Rad. And of course, I'm always within a TV, computer, radio, or tweet's length away from the Huskers' matches this year, and even got see my girls in action for a couple matches! So no, I'm not jet-setting across the country each weekend, and sometimes I really don't know what to do with myself at 4:30 in the afternoons...but you won't EVER find me far from a gym, net, and volleyballs.

"So, what else do you do with your time?"

It's incredible how much time being a student-athlete takes (especially in season), and what's even MORE incredible is how little you notice how busy you are until...you're not. This was my biggest struggle this fall, not knowing what to do with myself and plain old boredom. Once a routine with school and volleyball started it was better, but again, this change allowed me to do things I haven't been able to do before and it's been awesome. Below are some thing I've become quite fond of in my new life as a "norm"...

Steadfast

In Lincoln, I attended a bible study and church every week. Unfortunately, I was so busy that I was only able to pop in, worship, hear a lesson, and pop out. My main goal coming to Omaha was to find a church I could really get involved with and connect with other believers. My prayers were answered, as I've found a home at Steadfast Bible. It's a smaller church where familiar faces are seen every Sunday, and I'm in a LifeGroup with six other lovely ladies that meets once a week. I spent a relaxing weekend at the Women's Retreat in October and have been able to not only met new pals, but also reconnected with old ones. If you're in Omaha and wanna check it out some Sunday, just let me know! 

RUN

I'm not sure if it's just the endorphins talking, but I've definitely become hooked on running. Along the amazing physical benefits, it's a mental lifesaver. It's been the perfect way for me to clear my mind or just GET MOVING after a long session of sitting and studying. Kelly and I ran a 15K in the middle of October in Lincoln, and that was the last of my 2012 races. I can't wait to start planning ones for 2013, but as for the colder weather coming (nooooo!) my outdoor jogs on the bike trail will be cut down to a minimum. But have no fear, I'm looking forward to indoor activities; such as lifting, boot camps, and yoga to build up some strength for another season. 

Um...hobbies?

Friend, neighbor, classmate...
now roomie!

Tailgating with my favorite dietitian!

This fall, I've been able to do some other little things that I love doing, but never quite "had time." These included getting hooked on TV series, reading (yes, for fun), cooking, journaling, and traveling. Having free weekends to spend time with friends in Lincoln or Grand Island has been wonderful, especially to catch my
brothers' tennis and basketball action. When I need a "home" environment, a quick trip to visit my cousins across town has been a lifesaver. A friendly face is also found in my roommate, Megan, who I've known since 5th grade and is my family's neighbor in Grand Island. Whether Facebook creeping on hometown homies or just procrastinating our studies together (she's a Pharmacy student at UNMC), we always manage to have a good time together :)

Miss Nettie Jean Rhodes

Tennis studs and their biggest fans

Love cousin time

...aaaaand that's the last four months of my life in a four minute synopsis. This transition time in my life certainly is a day by day process, but I've had SO many opportunities to Build Briges with countless people. I know this will continue to grow in the coming weeks, months, and years as I put down roots and establish myself as a young professional. I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and friends and are getting ready for another holiday season!

Until next time,

Brig

This time in my life has been a great learning tool to stay in the moment with the Lord and trust His timing and purpose. It's also taught me to appreciate each day I wake, and not be afraid to spend time simply lovin' life.

Psalm 118:24

"This is the day that the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it." 

Magnificent May

Hey everybody!
The month of May was quite a whirlwind, yet I couldn't have asked for a better one! Surpassing a couple huge milestones, surviving two weekends in a row of Root graduations, catching up with old friends, the beginning of volleyball camps, and moving out of my apartment has kept me a busy busy girl. It's been a while since I posted, so here's what I've been up to in a nutshell...enjoy!

Friday, May 4th

CEHS Honors Banquet 

The College of Education and Human Sciences got together and awarded the top Nutrition, Fashion, and Teaching majors in the 2012 Class. You might be asking why these three unique majors are thrown together into a college, but as Dean Kostelnik said, "We clothe, feed, and educated people...what more do they need?!" It was also a great last chance to say goodbye and thanks to my thesis advisor and professor of multiple classes, Mrs. Young!

My smarts had to come from somewhere ;)

Ms. Dean herself

Professor Young

Saturday, May 5th

Graduation Day!

I officially joined the largest class in UNL history, crossed the stage, shook the Dean's hand, and got my Bachelor's degree after four years of hard work! After the ceremony, the athletics staff hosted a little party for all the seniors up in the skyboxes that my entire family (and I mean ENTIRE) got to attend. As a thank you for coming and reward for their patience, I took my grandparents, aunt and uncle, and cousins on a tour of the stadium and our beautiful athletic facilities! It was great to see everyone, spend the day together, and celebrate :)

We did it!

Nutrition for liiiiife :)

10 points if you can find me...

The most expensive piece of paper I'll ever receive...
Isn't it pretty?!

Sup, Tom?

A lil roomie love

Good lookin group ;)

The best grandparents EVER

My second family :)

Sunday, May 6th

Half-Marathon

Kelly and I laced up our shoes, secured our racing bibs, lined up with 10,000 of our closest friends, and took off for a measly 13.1 mile jog Sunday morning as part of the Lincoln Marathon.  I was a little nervous about the weather when I woke up (pooooouring rain), but thankfully it turned out to be a beautifully perfect day! The race itself was a lot of fun, the amount of people that came out to support all the runners was incredible, and they were the perfect burst of energy that I needed to keep going. It was such a great feeling to finish and can't wait to run many more!

The Route

Al...mo...st... Th...e..re...

Running buddies :)

My results: met my goal of under 1:45!

Friday, May 11th
Broderic's Graduation Party

After a long day of setting up decorations, cracking up at old pictures, and putting live fish in bowls by hand (yeah, don't ask...), it was finally party time! I loved being able to see and catch up with so many family, friends, and old teachers and Broderic was SO EXITED about being the center of attention!  For those of you that don't know, Brod has been diagnosed with Autism since he was 3, and has been something that he and our family has been challenged with throughout the years. However, he is one of the most positive, inspirational, and best people that I know...and this was proven by the number of people and kind words said at his party. If you haven't ever had the chance to meet him, you need to! :)

My "little" brother and I

Saturday, May 12th
DBU Game

Saturday morning, I made the trip down I-80 to go watch Boomer's team (Dallas Baptist) play Creighton at TD Ameritrade. It was SO great to see, spend the day, and catch up with my favorite guy and finally meet some of his teammates and friends! DBU won the game 5-2, and hopefully they will make it to the CWS in June so I can see him again soon :)

Hang out with these two, and your 
baseball knowledge will increase tenfold...

Such a studddd! :)

Sunday, May 13th
GISH Graduation

This was a HUGE day for Broderic, as he was finally able to cross the stage as an Islander Graduate and get that diploma. He had a giant smile across his face the entire day, and I'm pretty sure no one else could stop smiling either because it was just too darn contagious. I'm SO proud of him and can't wait to see what he's going to accomplish next! When asked what he was going to do on Monday (his first day off), he simply replied "sleep in"...as if there was anything else that matter?! :)

Wearing the Purple and Gold with pride :)

Wednesday, May 16th
The Last Supper

It was Maddie's last day in town (sniff sniff), so a bunch of us went out to eat to celebrate our last time all being together! We enjoyed a night full of good company, margaritas, plenty of laughs, and old stories from our "younger" days. It was the perfect ending to the school year and kick-off to summer! 

A whole 4 years together!

We enjoy each other's company a tiny bit...

Sunday, May 20th
Fire and Ice

After spending an entire week in Lincoln, it was sadly time for my bestie Kaitlynn to head back to Kentucky again. We had so much fun working out together, playing beach, catching up, laughing hysterically, tweeting/twitpic-ing, and of course, hanging out by the pool and getting our tan on. I will miss this girl so much but am SO excited to go visit her over 4th of July! Watch out Louisville, Fire and Ice is coming to town. 

Girls' night!

May 21st-23rd

And so it begins...

Jordan and I started our Summer Camps out in Nebraska City. It was a fun (and crazy) three days with the middle schoolers, and I throughly enjoyed catching up and hearing old stories over lunch with Grandma Betty! One camp down, many more to come...

May 25th-28th

Family Time

My youngest brother Brennon plays on the Bison team for GISH, and their annual tournament was held this past weekend in Lincoln. Also on Fridays, Braedon plays in a summer league with the Islanders...so needless to say I got a LOT of basketball watching in that weekend. In between games, my family helped me move and took home a bunch of my "big stuff" that wouldn't fit into my summer home, so I owe them a huge thank you :) On top of it all, it was great to spend some time and catch up with everyone, and Brennon's team even ended up taking home the Silver Championship!

Braedon rocking #33 and the brightest shoes in the gym

Brennon (#5) playing a little D 

Champs! 

May 31st

Pack it in, clean it up, and move it out!

Ladies and gentleman, the day has finally come. After THREE solid years, I am no longer a Lakeside resident! After countless hours of packing and cleaning over the past couple weeks (yes, weeks), the keys were finally handed in on Thursday. Thanks for all the memories, 206!

Deuces, Lakeside!

Whoooooooowe...I told you it was a crazy month! It's been quite a lot to reflect on, and I am SO BLESSED for every situation I've had the opportunity to encounter and each person that I've interacted with in this stage of my life. Sure, the next couple months will be crazy with tons of camps and plenty of uncertainties, but I can't wait to see what the Lord has in store and the Briges that will be Built. 
Hope everyone's summer is off to a great start as well!

So until next time, 

Brig :)

Sometimes I can't imagine how I'm going to fit everything in such a short period of time, or how things are going to all work out. This verse is PERFECT to remember for those mini moments of panic :)

Romans 8:28
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."