Friday, January 22, 2010

An Open Letter

As few of you are already aware, I have chosen not to return to UVA this semester. This choice was made after a great deal of soul-searching and reflection. During that time of reflecting, I found my interests would better be served through a pursuit in the fields of Journalism and Computers/Technology. I apologize for the delay in providing this announcement to my loved ones, but I have been understandably busy putting my schedule together at DCC. I look forward to this semester and I finally feel as though I am making decisions for myself. I love you all.


Always,
Bobby Allen

Sunday, January 10, 2010

Patchwork Heart

Forgive me these ramblings, but I have something to share.

Deep within ourselves, there is an essence. It rests within all of us and, in rare instances, it is awoken so that it may shine to its brightest extent. Many different pieces make us who we are. Each day, each hour, each moment--a new piece joins with our essence to accompany it forever. Some may choose to live a monochromatic life--one color. No choices. In my time, I have learned that my essence is made of many colors and each element that has come together through the years of my existence plays a vital role in shaping my future. My heart does not reflect light with the glimmering of jewels, but the true essence within shines through, illuminating every piece so that each may be seen, not individually, but as a whole. I am made of all the people who have made a difference in my life and I am truly grateful for all of them. I have lived many colorful days, though the grays sometimes set in for a while. I look forward to my future and I know that I am ready for whatever may come. Even if you are not here with me, you will live on forever in my spirit.

Always,
Bobby Allen

Friday, January 8, 2010

That Third-Year Feeling

After transferring to University, I was out of my safety zone, to say the least. I found myself in completely unfamiliar territory. It was terrifying. A feeling reminiscent of how a Freshman would feel anywhere else combined with the pressure of a normal Third Year student at UVA. However, after much reflection, I find myself looking ahead to this semester and I know what changes are needed to make this my most beautiful semester so far! I look forward to being involved again--like I was at Danville Community College. I love having a full plate of responsibilities in front of me and I am thoroughly excited to begin this new piece of my journey.




Always,
Bobby Allen

Thursday, January 7, 2010

Rocking Whitmell

Tonight, in my hometown, there was an accident involving a tractor trailer logging truck and a small car. The crash happened less than half a mile away from my home my mother and I heard an ambulance zoom by and shortly thereafter, many more emergency vehicles arrived on the scene. I spoke with some locals and I was able to find out that the victims of the crash were to be airlifted and the helicopters would be arriving at the school where I first began my education: Whitmell Elementary--a school that has been in neglect and decline for 14 years. There is a great open space in front of the school and it was perfect for a landing. I made my way to the site and stood in the freezing cold until I was able to grab a few photographs with the assistance of some super neighbors. It's strange that an event like this brings so many people together. I suppose there is a touch of excitement here that is not present at a community picnic. I really hope the victims are all right. We're praying for you.



Always,
Bobby Allen

Thursday, December 24, 2009

Mixed Feelings on Christmas Eve

Christmas...hasn't been what it used to be in some time.

Although, Christmas Eve '09 was headed in a great direction. All of my grandparents were over, as well as my great uncle. My sister and her husband were here with their daughter and we were all enjoying the delicious meal that my parents had put together. Things were winding down and I was taking a breather in my Granny's room when the phone rang. She looked at the caller ID and knew it was a cell number, but couldn't remember to whom the number belonged. Mom had taken the call in the other room and I don't remember exactly what I had heard her say, but she was certainly in some sort of alert mode. About that time, Granny realized that it was her brother-in-law's number she had seen on the caller ID. At that same time, I was getting up to go see what was happening and we heard Mom say that he had been in a car accident. Granny started to cry. My father jumped up as I ran to get my coat and I was going to join him in going to the hospital. My sister wanted to go, so I decided to stay with my grandmother, as I felt she needed someone by her side. My father and sister left and the rest of the family waited to hear word on my great uncle's condition.

Time went by as phone calls were made to ask for prayer.

The latest we have on what happened is that a drunk driver failed to stop at a stop sign and crashed into my great uncle's car, projecting him and his vehicle into a nearby embankment. Drunk driving is a very serious issue and this should not have happened.

So, my great uncle is now in the hospital.. In the hospital on Christmas Eve with broken ribs and other injuries. I hope the irresponsible man who decided to get behind the wheel of his car tonight and take a ride after having some drinks knows the damage and disruption he has caused.

Monday, December 21, 2009

Benadryl and Mountain Dew

Tonight, I have learned...

1.) Mixing Benadryl with Diet Mountain Dew is counterproductive.
Here's why:
Caffeine does not blend well with the sleep-inducing efforts of the aforementioned antihistamine. I'm pretty sure there is an especially large concentration of dust in my room at home that is not agreeing with my sinuses at all, but I'm adjusting.

2.) Late-night phone conversations are one of the best things in life!
Here's why:
The strangest thought processes occur in the minds of the sleep-deprived. I love family~

Okay--quick post tonight, guys, but I wanted to give something of an update on tonight!

Always,

Bobby

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Starting Up

Hey, guys!

My name is Bobby and I have been wanting to start blogging for a while now. I am a third year student at the University of Virginia and that has been keeping me extremely busy!

In my blog, I hope to talk about an assortment of things (In the interest of avoiding cliched remarks, I won't give examples).

I feel the immediate need to mention that I know an accent belongs on the "e" in "cliche," but I couldn't paste the appropriate character over. I will likely be frustrated for a solid minute about this.

...


Okay, done with that.

I won't say now what I think life is about because I am still learning!
This blog will be as much of an adventure for you as a reader as living it will be for me. Thanks for joining me in this crazy, beautiful, raging Dissonant Fantasy!

Always,

Bobby