Thank You, Honestly

I thought I'd have to lie to write this thank you note for the donor who provided money for my journalism scholarship. After all, the scholarship is supposed to go to someone interested in North Carolina culture and history. But as I wrote the note, I realized that none of it was a lie...

Dear [name removed],

I am so thankful to you for providing me with some of the money necessary to continue my education. You will be in my thoughts next semester as I sit through my journalism classes and gain the knowledge and understanding I need to be a contributing and impactful North Carolina resident, just as James Davis was.

To tell you a little bit about myself, I am currently finishing up my sophomore year at UNC, though I wish I was not already halfway through my college career. Coming to school in Chapel Hill from Cary has further increased my love of all things North Carolina. Although I am a transplanted Yankee, my roots are now firmly planted in the South.

Currently, I am most interested in learning about southern food. As a double major in American Studies focusing on American foodways, my appreciation for local foodways has developed into an obsession—visiting nearby farms, frequenting the Carrboro Farmer’s Market and eating cornbread like it’s my job. I’ve adopted the culture; and the culture so rich in that infamous southern hospitality has also adopted me.

With my education, I plan to fill my repertoire of experiences with visits to foreign countries and more familiar states, sharing conversation with anyone and everyone and learning through living. That’s what you have given me: the opportunity to live more fully without the fear of incurring debt.

I know that I will leave this place in two years with bittersweet feelings. But as a journalist, I recognize the importance of leaving in order to gain a new perspective, one I’m sure will eventually plant me back here where I belong.

Thanks again for your generosity,
Meghan

I never, ever expected to love North Carolina this much. (Chapel Hill, specifically.) But at this point, I'm rather addicted. Yes, I want to leave, to explore other places and other opportunities, but I think I'll always be pulled back here.

Sh-whoops

I was setting epic records for a while there, posting almost as often as I had a new thought. Apparently I have been focusing my thoughts on other topics, such as my many end-of-the-year papers. Whew.

March Madness is the most fitting excuse I can think of. And I'm not just referring to basketball.

Here is a rundown of the last month, with pictures:

We made our first meal of spring.

Slept in boxes during a rainstorm.

Celebrated Katie's 20th birthday.

Celebrated a NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP.

Celebrated JJ's presidential retirement.

Visited the Carrboro Farmer's Market, ate lots.

Held our last full SAIL meeting before commencement.

So, many celebrations occurred. Plus, today is Easter, so I will be elaborating on my life later.