I got a NC license plate the other day. I am officially a resident of NC. I also now officially own my car. Thanks mommy and daddy!Now when I do stupid stuff while driving people will just think, "stupid NC driver" instead of "stupid alabama driver"

Milestone: finished teaching my first semester today. I feel like I have learned so much, gone through so much, and am a lot more confident. I don't cry as much anymore which is good (except on my way to work this morning while listening to a heart-tugger on the radio).

gift tally from my students:
a lot of $ in giftcards including starbucks, panera, old navy, target and a big one to gap--my students know what I like
lots of baked goods
a vera bradley lunchbox--an upgrade from my ricky martin box although i will never get rid of it collyn!
some paper goods and christmas kitchen towels--festive and some kind of zip up travelling make-up bags--potentially useful or a good re-gift

I will totally miss them over break until I am with my family and friends in a few days. I don't think they will miss me though and I'm ok with that.

Tonight I went door-to-door to some of my neighbors to give them some cookies i had baked and it was so much fun! I met 2 couples, a greek gentleman, and Mrs. Hinkle--an elderly lady who told me to come back anytime. I loved meeting all them and seeing their homes and chatting. One of the neighbors, Mike and Jill had a cat that is some weird kind but its fur felt like velvet. It started biting my jacket while I was there and Mike joked that the cat must be attracted to me. I said I was available and wouldn't mind having to touch that cat all the time--maybe if I were a cat.

Merry Christmas!