For Valentine's weekend, my boyfriend and I went to Hoover, Alabama to visit his family! I had never been to Alabama before (nor had I ever tried sweet tea...yes, really, I have lived in the South for almost 2 years now and just tasted sweet tea last weekend), so both of those first-time experiences were documented. I must say, it is probably a VERY good thing that I wasn't introduced to the "liquid of the gods" (as my friend calls it) that is sweet tea until this point in my life - otherwise I would be obese. Perhaps even morbidly obese. Seriously. Yet, as unhealthy as sweet tea is, I will never go back to unsweetened tea ever again. (Thanks for that, Dan!)

It was so great to spend the weekend in Alabama, especially after having a crazy week. I had a test in, literally, every one of my classes. And, in addition to having to prepare for those, I also had to prepare to deliver a 20-minute Spanish presentation. (Not surprisingly, the Spanish presentation was the least stressful thing on my "to-do" list.) All of my hard work paid off though; my weekend at Dan's was the perfect way for me to relax. We had a wonderful Valentine's Day dinner - his parents prepared a delicious meal of perfectly cooked filet mignons, roasted asparagus, Texas toast, fresh pineapple, and we celebrated the occasion with chilled sparkling apple cider. It was absolutely wonderful.

Last night I got some very exciting news... I have a 101.95% in my World History since 1500 class!!! Just for the record, history has always been one of my least favorite subjects. In fact, I got a 2 on my AP European History test. I know that history should interest me, but it just doesn't! My professor for World History is awesome though. I can't imagine having to sit through a 4-hour Wednesday night history class without having her as a teacher. She focuses on big-picture concepts and emphasizes the importance of knowing major historical themes, not necessary every date or every fact. It's great. When I called my parents to share the good news with them, I warned them to sit down (just so that they would remain conscious). I wasn't sure about how tough this history class would be, so it's a huge relief to know that I am doing well! If only I can keep it up for the next 2 weeks...at that point, it will be midterm and my 8-week World History class will be over! I can't wait :)