I've only lived in East Texas since July 2007, and I already feel welcome. Thank you, East Texas, for your kindness.

I'm originally from Omaha, Nebraska, and that's where my family still shivers in the winter.

I graduated from the University of Missouri's School of Journalism in May 2007 as a member of the Omicron Delta Kappa Honor Society.

During my years in Columbia, I worked at KOMU, an NBC affiliate. I was a reporter and anchor there for two years.

It was at KOMU where I found out how much I enjoy bringing people their news while entertaining them and helping those who need to have their story heard.

While I wasn't working as an anchor, reporter, or waitress, I was an active member of Kappa Kappa Gamma and many campus organizations...and that's how I learned to live without sleep!

Before I graduated, I spent three months in Buenos Aires working in communications for Help Argentina, where I dealt with world-wide media outlets.

When I'm not working, I love to catch up with family and friends, go running, read mystery novels, watch horror flicks, and go to concerts.

I am also an avid pageant fan and participant. Most recently, I was First Runner-Up to Miss Missouri 2007.

I always enjoy meeting people and getting story ideas, so feel free to e-mail me at aeden@nbc56.com.