Going Yard.

Life is a funny thing.
It feels like sometimes when I have things figured out, the very next day my life
seems to take a completely different path.
The path is never planned, but more often than not, usually 
turns out to benefit me the most.

Exhibit A:

A few weeks ago, I walked into Conifer High School to drop paperwork off with my mom.
As we left (about 10 minutes later), I was suddenly the new 
head JV/assistant Varsity softball coach.
What??.....Huh??.....HOW?!?!

Definitely not something I had been planning, but something I am exceptionally

grateful fell into my lap.
I just happened to be in the right place at the right time.

Let's back track a little....
I played softball for about sevenish years (spaced from high school to college).
I was never the best player, but I always had something a lot of other players didn't - 
extreme love and passion for the sport.
Where a lot of girls had competition (which I had, of course), I usually
was just happy to be out in the field.

My senior year of high school, I played varsity ball.
I didn't start most games and I very rarely ever played out in my beloved left field.
Rather, I found myself filling the position of being our catcher's runner.
She hit, I ran (kinda like Forrest Gump....I just liked to run)
I was a part of a team, and I loved it!

Fast Forward back to this year.....
Coaching has always been on my bucket list, so I leapt at the 
chance to have my own team.
First day of practice was nerve-wrecking. 
I saw the head Varsity coach (my old high school coach), she said hello, 
jumped in her car, AND drove away.
And so, my six JV girls and I jumped head first into our season.

To answer your question....YES I only had six girls on my team.
And yes, you DO need at least nine to field a team.
Thank God for varsity swing players!

This season definitely wasn't without its struggles. 
It seemed like every time I showed up for practice, one girl or the other was injured.
I saw more sprained ankles, torn ligaments, broken toes, and concussions
than an emergency room after a college rager.
No joke.
The athletic trainer knew the names of every girl on my team.
NEVER a good sign.

But adversity is key to making a player better - or at least that's what I believe.
We took every road block thrown our way and ran with it.
And you know what??...we ended with a winning record.
6-4, Baby.
Not too shabby for a first time (got no clue what I'm doing) coach!

Coaching proved to be one of the greatest twists to ever happen to me.
It was exactly what I needed, at exactly the right moment in my life.
These girls taught me more about my abilities and myself than I ever expected.

We laughed, we cried, we worked hard, but most importantly,
we made memories that will last a lifetime.
And for that, I am extremely blessed and thankful.
This team (both the Varsity and JV) will always have a special place in my heart.

Forever and always, a proud Lady Lobo. 

PS - I'd like to extend a HUGE thank you to everyone that supported me this season!

The wonderful cheering section that was the parents,

my amazing mom for learning how to keep the score and always keeping me sane,

and Coach Carrie O....for truly believing in my abilities both on and off the field.

You're more of a life coach and mentor than you'll ever really know.

The Bee's Knees.

One of the hardest parts of graduating from school, as I'm finding out,

has been parting ways with my wonderful roommates. 

I miss coming home to their infectious personalities and sharing stories

of our days and laughing until our sides hurt. 

However, this past weekend, we were finally reunited for a few glorious hours!!

From left to right - Tori, Sara, Molly, Me

While going to school in Greeley, we all fell in love with a church called

Christ Community Church. 

It was an exceptionally welcoming place and spiritual and practically perfect.

(We especially loved attending the Saturday night worships, as they provided us 

with more opportunities to sing and praise) 

This past weekend, CCC put on their 3rd annual Sharefest.

Most simply put, Sharefest is an event for church members to go out into the Greeley community and do good deeds.

We were given the opportunity to help a man repaint his house.

Although I have no training, someone handed me a paintbrush and a bucket of

paint and let me at this man's house. 
No need to worry, I stopped after I painted the side window.....just jokes!
(turns out I'm really good with a paintbrush)
His house looked great once we were finished!

It was a perfect way to spend a Sunday. 
For starters, I was with some of my best friends. 
I was also given the opportunity to broaden my horizons and meet new people. 
AND, I was able to help out a complete stranger. 
I'm thankful I could take part in such a beautiful and fulfilling event.
It was a wonderful and very rewarding day!

4/6 of the roommates!

Love this girl to death!

The rest of our weekend was a blur of Labor Day sales at Centerra, devouring ridiculous

amounts of sushi, cooking, and laughing uproariously together.

No matter the distance, whenever we come back together, it's like no time

or distance has come between us. 

I love these girls to the moon and back.

They're the bee's knees.

A Letter from Mount Everest.

Dear you,

It probably seems out of the ordinary to receive a letter from me, 

especially after so much time has passed.

But let's be honest, I always was the exception.

And this letter is no different.

This isn't me begging you to get back together or even to talk to me again,

but rather an opportunity for me to finally close the door.

You were, and always will be, my first love. 

You brought me so much happiness. Always put a smile on my face.

A smile - that many in my life - once told me they'd never seen before.

And you know what?....neither had I.

I loved the warmth I felt when I was wrapped up in your arms. 

The safety I felt when I was with your family.

And the tremendous amounts of love I had in my heart for you. 

But why am I suddenly sharing all of this with you?

Because you need to know that there are people that love you.

Your friends and your family and even

this ex-girlfriend (I still hate the sound of that).

Following our break-up, I was told a lot of different things by a lot of people.

 I was given tons of advice and guidance. 
Some good, some bad, and some that really caused me to think. 

But after everything, I simply wish that I could share with you all that I learned.

When you broke up with me, I was angry and hurt.

But mostly, confused.

What happened? Why wasn't I good enough?
Why was the timing so off? 

Why was the boy I loved walking out my door without so much as a glance backwards? 

Too many questions and memories swirled around in my head.

 I didn't eat for weeks, I lost interest in everything.

When I was able to sleep, my dreams were vivid depictions of you and me. 

When words failed me, I cried. A lot. 

I lost my spirit for life, and became severely depressed.

Simply put, I had hit my lowest point in life. 

Ever.

Yet here I am.....six months after hitting rock bottom.

I'm on the mend, finally headed to the castle.

I've had time to clear my head and organize my thoughts.

And if we ever spoke again, this is what I would tell you....

You have so much potential, you just can't see it.

You're stuck in the small-town life, working a job you don't really want.

I completely understand helping out your family (I'm in the same position),

but at what costs?
Will you ever pursue those dreams of going to mechanic school?
Or opening your specialized auto body shop?

It's time for you to grow up, broaden your horizons, 

and become the man you are meant to be.

Move out of that town, spread your wings to new experiences. 
Take that internship in San Francisco.

Make new friends. Pick-up a new hobby.

Reach for the stars.

You're going to take the world by storm one day.

I believe that with my whole heart. 

Now you need to see it too.

I don't want to ask anything of you, except this.....

realize that the door will always be open. 

For another relationship?....I don't know, but ALWAYS for a friendship.

I want to be there for you, to support you.
 To encourage your goals and dreams.
We broke up, but that doesn't mean the only option we have is to cut each other out.

You'll always have me - you occupy a very special place in my heart.

With that said, promise me the next girl you see gives you everything I couldn't.
I loved you more than words; however, I obviously wasn't what you needed.
Don't let our break-up be in vain. 
Make the most of this second chance. 
Search high and low. Find your perfect girl. 
And don't ever settle for less than what you deserve.

I've worked and reworked the ending of this letter.
But there really is no good way to end this letter, especially when I'm writing it 
to the man I once loved so deeply.
So I'll leave you with this....
I enjoyed every second of the journey we (Fifi LaTrick and The Don) shared together.
And I'll look forward to the day when we can once again be friends.

All my love, forever and always.

- Mt. Everest

The Unbreakable Vow.

It is with great pleasure and happiness that I introduce.......

MR. & MRS. NOAH ELMSHAEUSER!!

As of four days ago, my wonderful, amazing sister is now a married lady.

AND I officially have a brother-in-law. 

Yippee!!

The week leading up to the wedding was a whirlwind event.

Lots of loved ones, little sleep, but a lifetime of memories. 

We had family coming in from all over the country (Nebraska to Pennsylvania)

We did everything from a spa day to a tea party to a delicious barbecue.

It was a great week spent celebrating Jessica and Noah.

Sipping N' Painting for the bachelorette party

This special event took place at the Willow Ridge Manor - a gorgeous 

venue nestled away in the Red Rocks of Morrison. 

The day was perfect - warm, sunny, and nothing but beautiful blue

skies as the pastor read the vows and sealed their marriage. 

Jessica looked absolutely stunning.

Noah looked like the happiest man in the world.

And I cried. 

Yes, I actually ugly cried. 

I couldn't help it, I'm a hopeless romantic....I love seeing such a happy ending!

(sorry, not sorry)

Jessica and Noah's wedding was magical, 

but more importantly, it was encompassed with so much love.

Not just from those two, but from everyone in attendance. 

You could just feel the love and joy for their union.
It was beautiful.

And with that I must add.....
Welcome (officially) to the family, Noah!!

You are an amazing man, and I know you will give so much love

and happiness to my sister.

Thank you for that. 
God knew what he was doing when he brought you to her.
We couldn't have asked for a more perfect man to join our family.

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not

dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, 

always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

LOVE NEVER FAILS. 

(1 Corinthians 13)

The House That Built Me.

For the last two years, I have been fortunate enough to live in one of

the most gorgeous houses I have ever seen.

Six bedrooms. Steam showers. Large Kitchen. Huge bay window. Tons of space. 

Essentially, this house was anything BUT a typical college house.

I was blown away the first time I ever stepped foot through the front door. 

There was so much space and a huge dining room table.

Yes, an actual dining table and even a real fireplace!

Definitely an upgrade from my beloved Turner Hall.

I remember sitting down with my five roommates and future landlord 

(who turned out to be an absolute blessing from God) and signing away 

our lives so we could officially be the next tenants of this amazing place. 

I was filled with trepidation as my pen touched the lease.

Was I making a mistake? Did I really like these girls?

Did I really need to move out of my dorm??

My mind swirled with worries and excitement.

Two years later and I can honestly say.....signing that lease 

was the best decision I ever made while in college.

Scratch that.

It has been the best decision I've made thus far in my whole life.

This house (without a doubt) helped shape me into the person I am today.

I experienced so much while living at 1823. 

Laughter. Tears (tons and tons of tears). Happiness. Sadness. Fear.

My first relationships. My first love. My first heartbreak.

My best friends.

I've loved sharing the past two years with these lovely ladies. 

We laughed and cried and played cards and grew tremendously together.

And while distance may separate us, we'll always be connected at heart.

But why am I writing such a heavy post tonight?

Well, today I sadly had to say goodbye to my sanctuary.

After two wonderful years, I had to spend the day packing up my possessions,

cleaning out the fridge, and spackling holes in the wall. 

And after a long day of cleaning,

I had to turn the lock on the front door one last time and say goodbye to my home.

I will always cherish the memories I created within the walls of this

 home (I literally have no bad memories. Not a single one).

I will never forget the love that surrounded me these past two years, and

for the rest of my life, I will carry a piece of 1823 in my heart. 

Our final contribution to 1823

Rockies Fever.

Coors Field is my happy place!

Literally nothing beats an afternoon or evening spent at the ballpark.

I love the atmosphere, the sounds, the players, the fried food, but most importantly...

I LOVE MY COLORADO ROCKIES!!

(photo credit to Mr. Ryan Dee)

A few of years ago, one of my best friends (the lovely Kristi Small) and I 

learned about an opportunity.....

FAN PHOTO DAY!!

This day (so magical for all baseball fans) allows mere mortals the opportunity
to take pictures with some of their most beloved baseball idols. 

You get to walk around on the field and talk to professional baseball players AND
take pictures with said baseball players.

It's the perfect way to spend a day.

As a devout fan, I look forward to this event every year.

In fact, this year marks my third consecutive time attending fan photo day.

And you know what??....You'll most likely find me there next year too!

Here are a few of my favorite pictures from the day....Enjoy!

Jackie Robinson...a true American baseball hero

Proof we actually touched the field
(Shout out to BigFoot Turf....the dirt looked great. Hope the summer is treating y'all well)

The lovely Kristi Small and I standing in right field

The awesome and wonderful, Michael Cuddyer
(I have so much respect for this man)

The one and only, Todd Helton
(This man is Rockies baseball and my absolute favorite player)

Marshall Moves to Texas!

Here's the thing, I LOVE the show How I Met Your Mother.
And even more than that....I am the Ted Mosby to my best friends Sara and Zach.
In fact, I often refer to the three of us as Marshall, Lily, and Ted.
(Thus the name of this post!)

Sara and I are both recent grads, attempting to figure out our way in the world.
Zach, on the other hand, graduated last year and has
been working at UNC for the past year.
He is a Sports Information Director (an SID for short), and recently got a new job.....
in Texas.

While I am so extremely excited for the new adventure that is soon to arrive for Zach,
I can't help but feel as equally sad to see such a great friend leave.
For the time being, it'll just be the Ted and Lily show.

So Zach Bond (since I know you're reading this) here are some words from me to you:

You are an incredible person, and I am so thankful you are in my life.
You've seen me through the good times, the bad times, and
some of the times I never want to relive.
You've seen me cry. You've seen me laugh.
You've even seen my horrible dance moves.
And through it all, you've stood by my side.

In case you didn't know, YOU are one of my very best friends in the whole world.

However, more importantly than that, I am grateful that you love Sara.
She is my best friend, my other half.
The glue that holds me together.
I wouldn't choose anyone other than you for her, and I am ecstatic that y'all are engaged.

With that said, I know it will be hard to be separated from the love of you life.
Keep your head high and remember....you guys love each other. Period.
When the times get tough, always remember that.
I cannot wait to see what the future holds for you two.

And now....it's your time to shine, to excel, and to go on a grand adventure.
Just know, you'll always have a home in Colorado with people that love you.
So....get on your way.

Good luck Marshall!

Lessons Learned.

If anyone ever told you high school was the time of your life, they lied to you.

College (without a doubt) is the time of you life! 

In college you get to discover who you are, what you like to do, and hopefully, how you want to spend the rest of you life. 

I learned a lot of life lessons in college. 

With that said, I feel it is my duty to document a few of the major ones 

I learned throughout the years....

Roommates

You'll love some of them, you'll hate some of them.

The important thing to remember about roommates...they all teach us something.

Roommates provide you with a door into another world - they help you grow 

and develop and become YOU. 

My advice....when you find roommates you love, hold onto them. 

If you're lucky, by the end of college, they'll be your best friends.

(and if you ever get the opportunity to live in a house off campus, do it.)

Going to Class

Go to class, it's as simple as that.

You're paying for your education, don't ever pass on the opportunity to learn.

Also, if you're stuck and need advice, go to your teacher's office hours. 

I didn't learn this lesson until about four months before graduation, but it's true.

Teachers love to teach, and they love interacting with their students.

Plus....you'll form a bond with your teachers 

(and that's helpful when you need letters of recommendation...or a boost in your grade at the end of the semester)

Getting Involved

This is an important one.....get involved and be a part of your college campus.

There are tons of activities to do on college campuses - clubs, movie nights, Greek life. 

Getting involved helps you meet new people and gives you a sense of connection to your campus.

And the upside?....most activities on your campus are free!

I would also recommend going to sporting events (even if the football team stinks).

Relationships

Relationships are a crucial part of growing up. 

Sometimes they bring you exceptional happiness, other times exceptional amounts of anger and upset.

Whatever the case, every relationship teaches you something.
Never regret a relationship.

It's as simple as that.

Heartbreak

If you've ever experienced a heartbreak, you know firsthand how much it sucks.

From my recent experience with heartbreak, this is the best advice I can provide.....pick yourself up, wipe your clothes off, and head back to the castle.

If you don't know what I mean by this, I highly recommend reading this book.

This book was a good read, and helped me significantly these past few months.
While some relationships don't end how you would've hoped or wished,
they work out just how they're supposed to.
Heartbreaks take time to heal.
 Never let someone tell you your timeframe for feeling better.
We all heal at different rates.

The upside to a heartbreak?....It proves that you're alive and capable of love.
(even if it doesn't feel like it at the time)

Goodbyes
Goodbyes stink, plan and simple.
There is no way to prepare yourself for the goodbyes that inevitably come with graduating.
So think of it this way....
It's not a goodbye, it's a see ya later.

The Beginning.

The Postgrad Diaries.

Prepare yourself to laugh, cry, but most importantly....

to learn life isn't about the destination, it's about the journey we take to get there. 

I'm Jayme. 

I have the greatest, most loving, and supportive family and friends anyone could ask for.

I'm 22 years old, and a recent graduate of the University of Northern Colorado.

I earned my Bachelor's of Science in Biological Science.

What do I want to do with said degree?....Your guess is as good as mine!

Like most recent grads, I've experienced every emotion possible these past few weeks.

What should I do with my life? Why does everyone else seem put together? 
Do I really have to grow up? 

The list of questions is never ending.

And thus, this blog was born.

In an attempt to keep myself sane as I drudge through this often confusing, exciting, and emotionally unbalancing journey we call life, this blog will serve as my official record of all the trials and tribulations I'm bound to face in the coming days, weeks, and months ahead.

Enjoy!

(Feel free to send comments and questions my way. As my readers, I'd love to hear your thoughts!)