Simplicity

I'm A Sailor Now!

2010-03-12T14:55:00.000-05:00

HOOYAH! I'm a U.S. Navy Sailor! Just graduated from Basic Training today. Yes, I am that awesome! ^_^

My Last Post...For now. :-)

2010-01-08T09:53:00.000-05:00

No worries, I shall return. I leave for the Navy on Monday and so during the next 8 weeks I will be without modern technology such as cell phones and computers. However, upon my return I will be posting once again.

I wrote a similar post about my departure on Xanga but the tone was different. Mainly because I'm getting sick of Xanga and the constant drama that circulates on that site. What's worse is that the majority of members either don't want to change it for the better or those that do end up leaving (like myself and several of my friends). No wonder Blogger, Facebook, Twitter, and even MySpace are doing better financially than Xanga. Hmm....something to think about?

Well anyway, I will be getting in shape and formed into a Sailor while I'm gone. I hope that everyone has a Wonderfully Happy New Year! ^_^

Spending Time With My Family

2010-01-03T18:36:00.006-05:00

As I've stated before, my birthday/Christmas gift from the boyfriend was a trip to GA to spend time with my family
before I leave for the Navy. Yesterday evening I returned home to a winter wonderland and decided to create for our
mother a gift that she can enjoy anytime she wants: a photo collage of the three of us. I had to purchase Photoshop
Elements (PSE) again because the previous version was for Windows and I am now using a Mac. Plus, it's the newest
version so it wasn't a total waste of money .

Well, I'm not a pro or anything but here is my collage. Enjoy!

© LRG Photography. Please Do Not Copy.
Lower resolution shown.

Hibachi and Anniversary

2009-12-26T19:59:00.000-05:00

Today is mine and the boyfriends 3rd anniversary. We are not spending it together. For my birthday/Christmas gift he bought me a round trip plane ticket to Georgia so that I could spend time with my family before leaving for the Navy. I've been here in GA since Wednesday now and am having a blast. Too much food has been consumed, for sure!

Today was the first time I experienced Hibachi. It was amazing and inexpensive!! The chef was a bit of a comedian as well and the kids (Joie, Roman, Cheyenne, Cadence) just loved it. I also loved the food! I had edemame, miso soup, white rice, fried rice, veggie entree. All delicious!

While I am missing my boyfriend terribly, I cannot be sad on this day because I am spending some quality time with my family. Besides, we'll make up for it later. It's only a date, we can celebrate any time we want.

Frühe Weinachten!!!

2009-12-24T22:22:00.000-05:00

Happy Christmas!!

Misconceptions of a Vegetarian's Menu

2009-12-21T16:48:00.000-05:00

There I was in my Animals and Justice class bawling my eyes out during a video we were watching in class. I had made plans on having Bim Bim Bop (or however it's spelled/called) for lunch but after watching all sorts of animals being abused and then slaughtered, I had quickly lost my appetite for meat.

After class, I was still crying as I walked to the Int'l Student Org's office. I sat down and my friends looked at me like I was some ghost. After telling them what I just saw, I announced that at that moment I was a vegetarian. Their first response: "What will you eat?"

Vegetarians, by definition, eat vegetables and animal by-products. By this I mean milk, eggs, honey, cheese, and anything that didn't require the death of an animal but came from an animal is still ok to eat. Vegans eat absolutely NO ANIMAL BY-PRODUCTS. Not even honey. I stress the honey part because many people I tell this to are shocked to hear that honey is considered an animal by-product despite the fact that honey comes from bees.

I cannot give up honey. I love it too much. I also eat the occasional egg and bake with it as well so that is very difficult for me to rid of in my diet. I did replace cow's milk with soymilk and reduced my cheese intake significantly (I will, on occasion, have cheese on my eggs or in my salads).

People tease me saying that I eat grass, or that I'm a grazer. That vegetarians only eat salads or raw veggies. This is not true. We can eat pretty much anything a typical omnivore eats just without the meat. Veggie lasagna is delicious and much better than the original if you ask me. Pizza has more pizzazz when you put all veggies of all sorts on the crust instead of all meats. Sandwiches suddenly become lively and creative when you have to fill up two slices of bread with something other than cold cuts. I have discovered so many new taste sensations that I have missed for the first 24 years of my life. I had no idea how great a cucumber, hummus, bean sprouts, lettuce sandwich was until I became a vegetarian. I eat several HOT dishes as well. Today I had a bag of frozen veggies that I steamed in the microwave. Sure I could have cooked them on the stove but I was lazy and so I went the easier route. I've had to get creative with dinner and discovered a lot of root vegetables as well. I've learned how to adapt and found that my menu is limitless. However, several restaurants and chefs are dumbfounded when it comes to feeding a vegetarian.

It seems that chefs or cooks everywhere think that veggies can't be spruced up into something decadent. Well, they can. That's what spices and herbs are for!! Every time I ask if there is a vegetarian dish on the menu the response is overwhelmingly "salad." Well, your salads are boring! Give me flavor or give me death! Come on! Get creative!

I've noticed that there are some places that are expanding their menu because of the growing population of vegetarians/vegans in our society. Panera bread offers a few items that are delish and creative for us veggies. Even McD's and Burger King have veggie patties (albeit they are disgusting b/c they cook them on the same equipment as the meat).

All I'm saying is that there is more than just salads that we veggies eat. It just requires a bit of creativity and expansion of the vegetable vocabulary. There are endless possibilities and yet people are too lazy to even try. I bet if you took your fave dish and made it vegetarian, you would soon discover how fast your cookbook has just expanded.

As my dad always tried to get me to do: "Eat your colors. They are much healthier than the pork chop on your plate." Well, I've finally listened and I love it.

Unconventional Christmas

2009-12-20T14:20:00.000-05:00

To be honest, I've never had an American Christmas as described in the movies. I never woke up on Christmas morning excited to open gifts. In fact, for as long as I could remember, Christmas morning was a day to sleep in and play with the toys that I unwrapped the night before. That's right, we celebrated on Christmas eve.

It was always like this. Only candles lit (even on the tree) and music playing softly in the background. We always went to church be ause we were in the children's Christmas play. Once we got home it would be 10pm or so and dad and my brother would put on the act of pretending to see hoof prints on the ground (indicating that Santa stopped by while we were gone). The fact was that dad would be the last one out of the house and would place the gifts under the tree while my brother and I got settled in the car.

Over the years, Christmas became less celebratory. We stopped going to the children's mass and dad was always too tired to go to midnight mass. We started opening our gifts by 7pm Christmas eve, which were never that many, and then proceed to watch movies and eat a decent meal. When it's just you and your dad there really isn't a need to make a huge meal. Christmas to me isn't my family's biggest holiday. In fact we celebrate Thanksgiving more than Christmas.

This year I am celebrating it early. Today to be exact. The boyfriend opened his gift from me this morning (a samsung blu-Ray player with wifi for netflix). We are currently on the road to his parents house to celebrate there (yes I am blogging from my iPhone while in the car). Point is that we just don't follow society's version of the holiday. We don't care much for the tree or the shopping or the gifts. We would much rather spend time together than deal with all of the other nonsense. Besides, it's more fun being with family than going into debt at the store anyway. I would much rather do this instead. ^_^

Izzy and Max

2009-12-19T11:49:00.000-05:00

I have two kitties, Izzy and Max. Izzy is 3 and Max is 6 months. Both were adopted at a rescue shelter and both really adopted me. Izzy was born with feline leukemia (very mild form) and in one year managed to build up her immune system and beat the disease. We waited a year and a half before getting Max to make sure she was 100% well. We also noticed how lonely she was whenever we left for work. While the two of them do "fight" (I put that in quotes because I've seem them be civil and playful to each other), I know that Izzy is happy to have a friend. Max is just always happy. ^_^

Izzy

Max

I'm Gonna Miss This

2009-12-18T14:50:00.000-05:00

The year is coming to an end and with the New Year comes New Beginnings. For me it will be starting my life in the Navy. Nervous, excited, anxious, are only just a few words that can describe what I'm feeling right now. Resigning from TSA is the best thing I could have ever done. I cannot imagine being there forever, making it a career with no possibilities whatsoever. It was merely a stepping stone to something much greater.

TSA kept me from getting that Cum Laude I was shooting for because of the expectations required of me. Forcing me to make compromises that I didn't want to make just so that I wouldn't become homeless. Not working with me and countless of other College students and their school schedules, actually telling me to quit school for that job. It just isn't a good government job for the educated American.

These walls have kept me inside but now I'm busting out! Freedom and adventure here I come! Well, ok so the Navy will own me for a while but it'll be worth it in the end. It's going to be much better than this.

I will miss this: being able to watch my favorite shows on the days they air, seeing my friends whenever I want, spending time with my boyfriend and my cats. Blogging, singing, dancing, etc. whenever I feel like it. It's only 8 weeks without my iPhone, MacBook, Cable TV, and my Nikon D40 but 8 weeks will come and go and I'll be back on the grid again.

I will NOT miss: Drama, TSA, Newark (NJ), or insane people.

Another stepping stone to something greater. In the end the journey will be worth the struggle and the obstacles that lie in my path. In the end I will be a bigger, smarter, and more experienced person. Right now, I'm enjoying the adventure.

Next stop: Great Lakes!

Ich Liebe Pocky

2009-12-18T13:02:00.001-05:00

I discovered this gem of a snack at the Sushi bar on campus a couple of years ago and instantly fell in love. Simple chocolate or strawberry cream covered biscuit sticks go great with coffee, tea, or by themselves. Then when the Sushi bar changed managers, the Pocky's disappeared. I was devastated! Then I found them at a Border's in the airport but couldn't get to them as often as I liked. Now they are available at the local Farmer's Market (Veggie/Fruit grocery near my apartment)!! I am so excited that I can barely contain myself! Sure, they can be fattening but it isn't like I'm eating them everyday. Anyway, if you want to try them you'll have to look hard for them sometimes. It's a Japanese treat that isn't available everywhere in the U.S.

I find it amusing that the dark chocolate ones are called "Men's Pocky." I love dark chocolate!!

Ink Stains on my Fingers

2009-12-17T18:54:00.002-05:00

Before we officially changed our work schedules at work, this summer I was plagued with working with the most childish of people. One of them was an elderly woman who lived off drama and nonsense and enjoyed getting on my case for the most ridiculous of reasons. Whenever she overheard me talking to my friend Tiff about my money-saving projects this woman would interject and call me cheap. Her calling me cheap was because I refuse to buy into name brands or wasteful spending. Well, if that's cheap then by all means call me cheap. But what I do is not only saving me money but saving a few trees as well.

Today I acquired the most wonderful of stains on my fingers: ink. I am wrapping all of my Xmas gifts with the Sunday Comics of a newspaper that I have delivered each week to my apartment. I only ordered the weekly delivery for the coupons but quickly realized that my boyfriend enjoys reading something first thing on a Sunday morning. Since I'm already paying for the paper I have started to find ways of reusing said paper before it goes to the trash. I use it for packing and wrapping gifts right now. So far I have wrapped 6 gifts with this stuff. Yes, a tree still died to make that paper but at least I'm not buying any specialty wrapping. Baby steps.

Being cheap really isn't much of an insult when you have money in the bank because of such frugality.

Animals Are Smart

2009-12-17T18:47:00.002-05:00

I really hate it when people state that animals are dumb. I hate it even more when they use this logic to defend their abuse towards animals. Animals are not dumb. They are very smart creatures. They work together as teams to survive. They have feelings of love and anger towards one another and towards other species. Granted they are not as evolved as Humans but that doesn't make them dumb. Geese fly in a V formation to maximize travel. The goose in the front does the most work and as further back the geese are in that formation the less work they have to do because they coast on the work of their family before them. When the leader tires, he moves and one that is more rested will go to the front to take his/her place. This allows them to travel great distances without having to stop. Salmon travel upstream every year to their birthplace in order to lay and fertilize more eggs. How can that be considered dumb?

However, since animals go more by instincts and are not as evolved as Humans, we cannot hold them to the same moral standards as we hold ourselves. It doesn't teach the Shark or Alligator any lesson by killing him because he killed a human. The more likely scenario is that the animal was defending himself from the human. Punishing the animal for doing what he is instinctually built to do is not justice. We must stop this practice.

There are more things we should stop but I need to go and get ready for work. I just had to get this bit off my chest.

Tips for Traveling (reposted and edited greatly due to laziness)

2009-12-13T17:53:00.000-05:00

I advise all travelers to go to www.tsa.gov and click on travel tips if you DON'T want to be surprised at security. As a TSA employee I have come across the most insane of situations. These situations are tedius, annoying, and easily prevented. Here are some you might not see on the website:

•metal bracelets: they WILL ALARM THE METAL DETECTOR. So if you can live without then for a day then please don't wear them when going through security. They piss off the officers because it's annoying to have to pat down someone who is too lazy to take that stuff off. We don't mind the extra screenin. Of those who alarm legitimately (I.e. Those with metal implants or real threats) but those bracelets are a thorn in our sides. Plus it slows down the lane which makes the lines long and annoys other passengers.

•shoes: ok this is on the site but I have to reinterate. SHOES MUST COME OFF. All types of all sizes and all styles. Just buck up and take them off. We don't like to smell your feet either so start applyig some odor eaters or clean you feet and wear clean socks. Do somehing for your god aweful feet!

•liquid limitations: also on site. 3.4ounces or 100mL in a clear QUART (not gallon) size bag. Why? Because of the foiled plot that happened 3 years ago in the UK. It also applies to food items such as jams, peanut butter, dips, hummus, yogurt, water, etc. If it ain't solid or not within those regulations then either eat it before you come or check it in. I don't care about you favorite brand, it's going in the trash if you bring it through security.

Pack lightly if possible and don't overstuff your carry-on bag. If it's heavy and overstuffed and then we have to check it you are putting OUR SAFETY AND HEALTH at risk and we are less inclined to help you repack it. In fact, if you are a pain then expect to be treated the same. Give us a bit of respect and we will treat you with respect. If you follow the rules and are patient then I promise
you security will be a breeze. Just remember that these are federal officers and you can be arrested if you start a fight or pose a
serious threat.

Also a thank you neve hurt anyone. It oftentimes makes my day. :)

*I say reposted and edited b/c I've made previous drafts only to have deleted them later*

Strange Gift Ideas

2009-12-07T11:48:00.000-05:00

Watching TV has presented me with some very odd gift ideas this Christmas. Ideas such as electric toothbrushes. Why on Earth would anyone want an electric toothbrush as a stocking stuffer? Ya, thanks for telling me I need to brush my teeth with technology. Give me some toothpaste to boot why don't ya.

And when I think about it, buying those gift packages you see in the stores that are full of soaps and whatnot. I'm not going to use hardly any of that. Obviously the person felt obligated to get me something but didn't put any real thought into it. I've been seeing myself do the exact same thing with a friend of mine. I am considering getting her a nice make-up kit but is that what she really wants or needs? I don't even know anymore. I say if you are gonna give a gift but don't know what to give, just give the person a universal gift card. At least this way they can get themselves something they really want. And who doesn't like free money! ;-)

Christmas sucks. I had the premise of feeling obligated to give gifts to anyone. If I want to give someone a gift it should be because I WANT to not because I NEED to.

Digital Books = Win!!

2009-12-06T22:18:00.000-05:00

I absolutely love that I purchased digital versions of Volumes 1 and 2 of Sherlock Holmes from Barnes & Noble.com for less than $6. That's a lot of stories for such a small price!!! I also bought the complete works of Grimm's Fairy Tales for less than $4. Score!!!!

Digital Books (on the iPhone no less!) = Win!! ^_^

Snowy Day Update

2009-12-05T17:43:00.002-05:00

Well, it's snowing outside. Has been since about noon-thirty and since my left ear is still a bit stuffy, I've not had the chance to enjoy it. Hopefully tomorrow I'll be better. I'm sick of not being able to hear things when I eat. It's so loud in my head!

BUT! The good news is that I didn't have to rely on the Oxycodone for long. Took just one dose and the pain went away. I still take Advil when the pain starts to return (which isn't often) and I'm taking the Amox until the swelling (I'm assuming that's why my ear feels muffled or congested) goes down. Until then, I've been shopping online.

Now I'm off to reheat some veggie lasagna! Mmmmmm....*Drools*

Sick Days

2009-12-04T13:54:00.000-05:00

For the past two weeks I've been sick with a cold. Normally I can handle a cold but this bout was really rough. I contracted it from my boyfriend who is still coughing but his wasn't nearly as bad as mine. I blame work for my worsened conditions. The place is dusty despite the efforts of the cleaning staff. Working at the airport means I am in constant contact with other people. People who put their boarding passes and passports in their mouths, then hand them to me, and then have the audacity to complain about taking their shoes off. I say the floor is a lot cleaner than their mouths since that is what they are giving me; their nasty mouth germs. Well, I make it a point to NOT cough on others and when Thanksgiving rolled around I had to leave work early because I was too weak to continue. I took Friday and Monday (which was my birthday) off to recoup and felt well enough to go back to work on Tuesday. My coworkers thought I was faking despite my constant coughing and by Wednesday I was feeling bad again. It was Wednesday night that my left ear became congested which lead to me waking up early Thursday morning with an earache. After consulting with a doctor on Xanga, I found an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist who was willing to take me in. Turns out I have an ear infection. So now, I've called out for two more days from work, plus I will be calling out on Monday because I have a meeting with my Navy recruiter that is mandatory. Extended weekend, yes but not what I had in mind.

I was prescribed Oxycodone and Amoxicillin for the ear infection. While the Oxycodone did take away the pain, I found it didn't do any better than Advil and I so I've not taken more than the first dose of it (I have switched to Advil which is working just fine). My ear still feels congested but at least there isn't a throbbing pain anymore. I am hoping that later today I will feel well enough to go visit my friend from England, Hannah. We are to go Karaoke-ing tonight in the City but I don't want to make matters worse. Should we plan for Saturday night instead? I don't know. I am just going to play it by ear. (Hehe..)

I don't like being sick but since this doesn't happen to me often, I guess I can't complain too much. The ear infection sucks but I am glad I saw the ENT anyway. I would hate it if I had not and then had permanent damage to my ear. Plus, the pain was making me cry (ouchie!)

For the time being, I've been busy reading a book on my Barnes & Noble eReader on my iPhone. I have decided NOT to invest in the Sony eReader, Amazon Kindle, or the B&N Nook. Why when I have the app on my phone and it works just fine. Besides, I was going to be reading stuff on my phone anyway so the font size doesn't bother me. AND it makes for easy carrying! A lot easier than those bigger electronic Readers. I will say this, I think it's bonkers to HATE digital books. They are cheaper to buy, save trees, and makes it easier for the avid reader like myself to store and carry. There was an author a couple of nights ago on The Colbert Report stating that he refuses to make his books in digital form because of what has happened to music since it went digital. Meaning that since pirating music has become easier, so will pirating books. Maybe this will happen but I don't see it being as big an issue as music and movies. I'm still trying to find people my age that enjoy reading!! One should be glad that their book is popular enough to be pirated! Think about it. Only the most popular entertainment seems to be the ones targeted most by pirates because EVERYONE wants it. So if your book is that great then HOORAY! I know not making money off of pirated stuff sucks, but it is getting your name out there. I for one do not pirate music, movies, or books. I am perfectly fine purchasing them legally. I have found that I have fewer computer viruses when I do things legitimately (I learned from my friends and from past experiences). In any case: I love digital books!

I've also been thinking about my faith. I have decided that I do believe in a God. The God of Abraham perhaps? I have learned years ago that the Jewish, Christian, and Muslim faiths are stem from the same God so picking one Religion is merely based on personal preference and tradition. I guess I am still a Christian in that I follow it's teachings more than the other two but I still do not feel comfortable going back to church. I also believe in evolution. I believe that if God can do anything then he/she can use evolution to create the world and it's inhabitants. So this is where I stand now. Who is God and where does he/she reside? I have no idea. Sometimes one just has to roll with the whole faith thing and move on with their life. I don't care to argue or debate or whatever anymore. I am comfortable in what I believe and in what I do and I don't care who agrees or disagrees with me anymore. Just don't tell me I'm going to hell, cause that's just not nice.

Well, that is all for now.

It's the MOST Wonderful Day of the Year!

2009-11-30T12:28:00.000-05:00

Twenty-six years ago at 16:31 (4:31pm), the most awesome person in the world was born: ME!

I'm still sick and it's gloomy and rainy outside. However, I did call out sick today so at least I don't have to work. I guess it all balances out. Anyway, happy birthday to me!

"Here's Lookin' At You, Kid."

2009-11-28T19:56:00.005-05:00

While I have had many opportunities to watch Casablanca in full, tonight was the first time I came close to viewing 100%. TCM doesn't air commercials during the films they present so I did miss two bits of the movie because I had to go to the bathroom (water will do that to ya). However, the best part was knowing that my mom was watching the movie with me in Georgia. It was almost like spending time with the family.

My thoughts on the film? Well, I'm glad Rick did what he did in the end or else I would have thought of him as a douche and Elsa a flake who doesn't know what she wants. Classic movie? Ya betcha. Nonetheless, this movie ended perfectly.

I think I will be asking for a personal copy of this film for Christmas. Not too bad of a request considering it's a gift that keeps on giving, yes?

This could be the beginning of a great movie collection.

Currently
Casablanca
By Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, Paul Henreid, Claude Rains, Conrad Veidt
see related

My birthday is in 2 days! Woot!!

2009-11-28T08:26:00.002-05:00

Almost every Thanksgiving weekend my birthday tends to be a big part of the celebration. We have dinner, play games, and then I get to open presents. Since college the presents have been removed almost completely because I no longer ask for much. The same goes for Xmas since I only like to get stuff that I need (or anything nintendo. ). This year my mom sent me a hand knitted sweater with matching scarf, mittens, and hat. All of baby pink and fluffy. I love how soft and warm it all is and can't wait to wait it soon.

As for this years t-day dinner, we had cracker barrell food to go which left us wanting leftovers that didn't yet exist. Today the boyfriends parents are hosting a t-day dinner now that our colds are subsiding and I plan on going despite my slight phlegm-y cough. (I know, disgusting right?) I just love having sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, fried rice, steamed broccoli, green beans, and whatever other veggie his mom makes. This mixture of Greek-Filipino-American food makes the past years thanksgivings so delish! It makes celebrating our bdays (his moms was on the 26th) all the more fun, and tasty.

So happy birthday to all sagittarians!! And happy thanksgiving weekend to all!

*I worked on thanksgiving morning and shared with the traveling public my wonderful cold. Mwa ha ha ha ha! That's what you get for traveling on a holiday.*
Currently
Super Paper Mario
By Nintendo
see related

Thanksgiving's cancelled

2009-11-26T04:32:00.000-05:00

Due to everyone being sick this week, thanksgiving dinner has been cancelled.

The boyfriend's mom is terribly ill, along with the boyfriend and I, and so we will not be going to his parents house today for dinner/birthday celebrations. (it's his mom's bday today) instead we may attempt to go to a restaurant depending on how we feel. We only have a mild cold and right now I'm at work doing an early shift today so that I can enjoy the evening at home. I don't know what we will end up doing.

What am I thankful for? Not having the flu.

Netflix for iPhone

2009-11-24T12:05:00.000-05:00

You can watch movies on your computer, tv, and have them delivered from netflix but you can't watch them on your iPhone. Sure I could rent movies through iTunes but I already have a Netflix account. How awesome would it be to stream movies and shows from Netflix straight to my iPhone! Then I could watch 30 Rock at work during my break!

Alas, Netflix has yet to accomplish this. Bummer.

"No, my first name ain't baby, it's Janet. Ms. Jackson if your nasty."

2009-11-21T10:01:00.000-05:00

My girl Janet Jackson just released her Number Ones album and of course I had to purchase it! I went the mp3 route and downloaded it on iTunes rather than buy the physical album. I didn't want to be one of those who stopped buying CDs but the minute I got the iPhone I was hooked on the whole iPod extravaganza! Now I get all my music via the internet.

And boy she is AWESOME! There are some songs on there that I didn't have before, like Scream with Michael J., and What's It Gonna Be with Busta Rhymes. So I am ecstatic! Anyway, I'm jammin' to Janet this weekend and tomorrow she opens the AMAs! ^__^ Boo-ya!

Side Note: I worked out 5 times this week and my boyfriend said that was too much. :-P Oh well, I feel great nonetheless. ^_^

In the Navy (Update)

2009-11-17T12:07:00.001-05:00

I was on the elliptical machine at the gym yesterday doing my thing trying not to get fat and I get a call from my recruiter.

Recruiter: So how do you feel about leaving in January?
Me: Sounds good.
Recruiter: How do you feel about leaving January 11?
Me: That sounds great!
Recruiter: Ok then, you're leaving January 11.
Me: Woo-hoo!

I now have a new ship date: January 11, 2010. Great Lakes, here I come!

Exercise

2009-11-16T10:16:00.002-05:00

The boyfriend made it very clear yesterday that I need to make it a habit of running 5 days a week if I am going to be prepared for boot camp come March. Despite the pain, he says that in the Navy they won't care (which I am fully aware of this fact) and that I need to also not care and push myself more. Today I am meeting with my friend from work, Tiff, at the gym near the airport for a run on the treadmill. I would prefer to do this outdoors but this is Bayonne and well, I don't trust the drivers in NJ to not run me over. I have my Nike+ with me too so hopefully my need to record every run will continue to motivate me to run more often (it's slowly getting me to that point). Let's go running!

A Busy Sunday

2009-11-15T15:39:00.002-05:00

Day of rest is more like a thing of the past in regards to the week I've had. I worked Monday through Friday and for the first time ever have a REAL weekend off only to do chores. :-P It wasn't so bad though. Yesterday I was busy cleaning out what I refer to the SUV as the Earth Destroyer 3000. I got to use my new Dirt Devil Kurv hand vacuum which did the trick but wasn't the best. I then cleaned the windows on the inside with every intention of going to the car wash when it started to rain. Then I vacuumed the carpet in all rooms of the apartment and scared the crap out of my cats.

Today was no different, I took to doing the laundry and run some errands while the boyfriend fixed his car. We got that Turbo Snake (As seen on TV!) and boy did that thing do wonders on the bathroom sink! Our tub is still trouble but not as bad as before. It was so gross what came out of those drains though. The laundry was fun (sarcasm). I have successfully washed 5 loads, dried 4, and am currently drying load number 5. Thankfully the management here at the apartment complex lowered the price of the machines by 50¢ which saved us some serious change. I've been up since 0700 and am now on coffee cup number 2 (using Sugar In The Raw this time instead of Splenda and am pleased with the taste). Needless to say (but I will say it anyway) today has been quite productive.

Currently watching the Jets play against Jax and hoping they win (the Jets of course). Glad to see that Tennessee is winning against Buffalo. Let's hope they take this one all the way. Go Titans! (And Jets!) ^_^

NCIS

2009-11-15T09:03:00.003-05:00

I had made it a point in the beginning to not watch this show because I felt that these crime shows were becoming too common. Meaning that the stories were going to be repeated but just in different venues and nothing good would come from it. However, the boyfriend and I started to watch it anyway because we are bored of CSI and Law & Order and needed something different to entertain us. The show is alright and it does have it's moments of thrill but for the most part I'm not too keen on the cast of characters. I don't really care much for Tony or Abby but I can see why they are there in the show. One of my faves is Ducky, whose name I just figured out why he is called that. (And this is the point of this post)

Ducky's name on the show is really Donald Mallard. Those who are aware of names of birds would know that Mallard is the proper name for Duck. And his first name is Donald. Get it? Donald Duck! Hahahaha!!! I just realized this yesterday while watching an old episode (the one in which Ducky is attacked at knifepoint by some crazy woman seeking revenge). When I told this to the boyfriend he simply rolled his eyes at me and proceeded to call me a dork. :-P I just couldn't help but laugh.

*Just finished reading The Scarpetta Factor by Patricia Cornwell. My fave author. I met her on October 24 while she was going through security at my checkpoint (she was flying Virgin Atlantic to London). That's how awesome I am! I gave HER MY autograph! Boo-ya! (Technically I signed her boarding pass. Details details...)

Barbeque

2009-11-14T12:07:00.002-05:00

My first week in NJ there was a "BBQ" at the apartments on campus where I was staying. As a southerner I was excited because it made me feel like I was at home. That was until I got to the "BBQ" and found it it was actually a cookout. Cookouts are when you grill hamburgers, hotdogs, and order pizza. A BBQ is when you gril a pig and slap some specially made sauce to flavor it up. Yes, it's a process of "very special meat served in a very special way depending on where you live." (Rhett & Link). All I'm saying to you Yankees out there is get it right and stop calling cookouts "BBQs." You're confusing the southerners who get excited for something that isn't gonna be there. Now I no longer eat meat (been just over a year now) but I do appreciate this song and wanted to share it all with you. These guys are hilarious and you can download many of their songs from their website for free (I know I have ;-)). Anyway, here it is the BBQ song by Rhett & Link!! Enjoy! *My fave quote: "Is Florida a southern state? No, it ain't." Too true!*

It's My REAL Friday

2009-11-13T10:18:00.002-05:00

So for the past 3 years I've never had a weekend off from work (aside from the first 2 months of work but then after that I wasn't so lucky). So of course the common phrase one will hear from a TSO is "today is my friday" even if the day of the week doesn't correspond (i.e. a person's friday could be in actuality a Wednesday). So today is my Friday at work and it just so happens to BE Friday! Woot! I am so excited I can barely contain myself! So because it's friday, I will share with you these HIGH-lare-ious jokes told by my nephew Roman. Enjoy!

I Missed the Memo

2009-11-04T14:11:00.001-05:00

Apparently it's ok to deny a person equal rights if you let the people vote on it. Despite the fact that the constitution says that "all men are created equal." I mean, it can't get any clearer than that. Apparently I didn't get the memo and Maine did?? Maine, you disappoint me. Please separate yourself from the States and go drift off into the Northern Atlantic and freeze your bums off...because you don't deserve equal rights either.

Marriage is Love and is for EVERYONE


Marriage is love.

George Washington's Headquarters

2009-11-03T16:16:00.001-05:00

During the Revolutionary War, George Washington had his headquarters in Ford's Mansion in Morristown NJ. At the moment the Mansion is under repairs and renovations until next Spring so unfortunately I was not able to go inside. However, I did get to look through the museum that lies behind it and saw a few artifacts and rare manuscripts that were made during that time period. One of which being an original copy of Common Sense by Thomas Paine. I finally have obtained my own copy. I'll get to reading it later after I finish my two novels I've started. Anyway, here is a picture of the Mansion. Enjoy!

My Family Tree

2009-11-03T09:26:00.002-05:00

Today I found out about some very interesting information concerning my ancestors. One of them was a spy during the Revolutionary War!! Whoa! That is too cool! I also found out that the ancestors in question are proven to have served in the Revolutionary War and now all I have to do is prove that I am related to them. I don't think this will be much problem since my father had already done majority of the work for the past couple of decades. I am just so excited that we have some new information! I forwarded the information to my father and now he's getting excited as well. To some this may sound cheesy but to us it means everything. Family history is a big part of who we are, where we came from, and more. Plus, I enjoy knowing our past. Hopefully I can pass then down to further Gillis generations.

This has gone faster than I thought it would. I am just so excited now I can barely contain myself!! ^_^

Today I plan on going to see George Washington's Headquarters in Morristown, NJ. I don't know what to expect but I will be bringing my camera along for what I hope to be some very interesting photos.

My Pedigree

2009-11-03T09:25:00.002-05:00

Now that I've made it through one DAR meeting, I am faced with some serious homework. First off, the DAR meeting was wonderful. We learned more about the history of the Schuyler-Hamilton house and some artifacts of the time. Then we had tea/coffee and snacks in super fancy cups that I held with two hands so that I wouldn't drop it (I have butter fingers). I talked to some really energetic and wonderful women and even gave myself a quick tour of the Mansion. Next week I plan on going for the official tour and I will be bringing the camera as well.

Back to my lineage. Or Pedigree. Genealogy. It's a lot of work proving that you are the descendant of a Revolutionary War soldier. I need birth certificates, census records, family bibles, tombstones, etc. Anything and everything that proves that by blood I am related to the person in question and that they actually served in the War. It's a bit daunting right now but hopefully it will prove to be worth the journey. If anything, it's giving me something to do while I wait to start my career in the Navy.

So, do you know your pedigree? Your family history? Are you even interested?

Daughters of the American Revolution

2009-11-01T10:11:00.000-05:00

For as long as I can remember my father has talked about our family history. He is very interested in general history but most especially our family's. He also has told us kids that our Gillis history goes as far back in America as the Revolution. It wasn't until watching an episode of Gilmore Girls that I had even heard of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). After some contemplation I decided to go online and research the organization, what is required to join, and if there was a chapter nearby. I had my dad mail me whatever documents we had about our ancestry and contacted the local DAR. Today will by my first visit to one of their general meetings.

I had originally intended on going to one of their meetings on March 5. However, that was the day I found out about my stolen identity (which has been resolved). They don't meet during the summer and since I was going to leave for the Navy this Tuesday (has been moved to March 23 because I changed my job) I made the choice to check them out. I'm hoping that I do qualify to join because that would mean that all of the research my father has done on our family will be true. I'm not just doing this for myself but for him also. I think it would be a nice birthday gift for him if he knew 100% that these men in our family were true American Heros.

Egads! It's a tick!

2009-10-31T11:01:00.000-04:00

I went on a camera laden adventure yesterday (pictures to follow later once I'm at my actual computer) and had the most wonderful time. I discovered an abandoned basketball goal in the middle of the woods next to a river and a man-made dam. Up the hill was an abandoned house/building that was surrounded my bare trees and fallen crabapples rotting on the ground. I looked in awe at this once inhabited place wondering why the people left.

Afterwards I went to an old mansion, abandoned but not forgotten since it is now the towns historical society's major restoration project. Behind the mansion is a city park full of trails and sports fields to give anyone who visits something to do. After a few shots from my camera, I packed it up and went home to take a nap.

It was about five minutes into that nap that something on my arm woke me up. A tick!!! I jumped up and ran to the kitchen to kill it (later found out I was a deer tick), threw off my clothes not caring that my shades where open, ran into the shower and washed my hair thoroughly. I then called the vet to find out what I should do about the cats.

I did the right thing by killing it, bathing myself, and washin the clothes I wore while out in the woods. I then went to the pet store to by a flea and tick spray for he cats and the car, since I did drive while the tick was on me. I'm still super paranoid, afraid that my cats or I will get Lyme disease. No bullseye marks on me that I can see somaybe I'm in the clear but just the thought of it crawling on me gives me the shivers.

I wish that ticks and fleas hybernated in the fall and winter so that I wouldn't have to worry but alas they don't.

I Need Filters!!!!

2009-10-31T10:59:00.005-04:00

I finally figured out why my photos never turn out the way that I see them! It's because I don't have any filters to balance out the colors and light! D'oh! Why hadn't I figured this out before?! I was going through my B&H Photo magazine and came to the page that sells filters. In it they give descriptions of what EACH FILTER DOES! Yes!!! Now I know what I need to do! Monday I think I will take a trip to the Big Tall City and head on over to B&H for some camera shopping fun!! :-D

Here are a few photos from yesterday's adventure. Keep in mind, I took these without the filters. Just imagine how much better they would be if I had the right filter on!

*Note: All photos below are (c) 2009 Lydia R. Gillis LRG Photography. Please DO NOT COPY.

I loved how big and bare this tree was in comparison to the other smaller trees surrounding it. Directly below this tree were hundreds of what I believe were crabapples rotting under my feet.

Near the tree pictured above was this abandoned basketball goal. This area was suddenly flat and even than what I was walking on previously. I wasn't looking ahead and literally stumbled upon this. It was discovering this (and a giant birdhouse that was nearby but not shown on this blog) that my curiosity peaked.

This Man-Made Dam is LITERALLY behind that basketball goal.

I stood on the wall of the dam when I took this.

Up the hill to the right of the dam (when facing the dam) was this abandoned building/house. As I climbed the hill to this spot I noticed several wooden boards that created steps. Obviously grown up for the most part by nature, it was evidence that someone put some serious effort into making this land habitable. Unfortunately, only the critters are left to enjoy its remnants.

This is the land behind the dam. But don't dare walk on it because it's really just swamp. All water and no solid ground awaits ahead.

This is the view from the abandoned foundation. Peaceful, no?

The path that I took to the damn and abandoned foundation. There are just a few trees holding onto their golden leaves.

There is a name for this old mansion but I do not know it. It is located in my town where Turkey Park lies behind it's stone face. The town's historical society is raising funds to restore this once beloved home.

Early Morning

2009-10-26T07:53:00.000-04:00

Technically I've slept in given the fact that most mornings I am up at 1:30. However, I am still up before the sun and am now debating on whether I should attempt to capture the sunrise or not. Time is of the essence so I need to make a decision quick. - 6:52 am.

7:45 am....

I had decided to go down to the lake and enjoy the sunrise with my camera. Good Morning America!

Please do not copy.

Breaking the Rules

2009-10-16T15:57:00.000-04:00

Our new blue uniforms are rather nice when compared to our old rent-a-cop like white uniforms. I think they make us look more professional and the badges were a real confidence booster for the employees. When we started wearing the new uniforms we were told of the new uniform policy that was only slightly different than the old policy.

The policy, in laymen terms, says that any officer who wears the short-sleeved shirts are to NOT wear the tie whatsoever. I then asked the Manager does this rule apply to those who would wear the vest or sweater over the shirt and his reply was that even with those garments covering the shirt, the tie was still NOT to be worn because it was not designed for that purpose. So I said OK and went on with my day.

Fast forward a year to where I finally receive my sweater in the mail and I wear it this entire week over my short-sleeved shirt WITHOUT the tie. No one says a thing because I am not violating the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) in regards to our uniform. Today however one of the managers had a hissy fit because I was not wearing the tie. Here is our conversation:

Him: Where is your tie?
Me: I don't need to wear a tie sir because I am wearing the short-sleeved shirt underneath this sweater.
Him: You MUST wear a tie when wearing the sweater.
Me: Um, sir? That is not what the SOP states.
Him: You MUST WEAR A TIE! (he then storms off)

I follow him to the office
Me: Sir, may I see the SOP Please?
Him: NOT RIGHT NOW LYDIA!
Me: Sir, it is my right to see the SOP.
Him: DID YOU NOT HEAR ME? NOT AT THIS TIME!!

(I am not exaggerating here, he really is yelling at me and I am speaking to him calmly)
Me: Sir, I'm not trying to argue with you but just requesting to see the SOP because I was told differently by another Manager that I was not to wear a tie with the short-sleeved shirt, regardless of the sweater.

(he storms off the the supervisor where he asks for the SOP, tells her why, and I overhear her standing up for me saying that I am right).

Two hours pass and I am called into the office. By this time I have already removed the sweater just to avoid more conflict and as a result I am literally freezing at work. See, they are doing some construction at the airport within our checkpoint that has resulted in the windows being taken out and an uninsulated plywood wall to replace them for the time being. Despite the fact that the heat is on, the cold air seeps in and makes the checkpoint the same temperature as outside. Which at 4am was 37 degree fahrenheit. Brr!!

To end this story I will simplify what happens next. I man up and apologize for appearing to be disrespectful towards the manager even though he was disrespectful towards me and never even bothered to apologize. The supervisor told me that I was indeed correct and that I was not violating the uniform policy. However, she then said that she and the manager had added a rule requiring officers to wear a tie with the sweater. If I come in tomorrow to work without the tie then I will be written up for deliberately disobeying her REQUEST.

So damned if I do and damned if I don't. By wearing this sweater I am breaking someone's rules. If I wear the tie then I am violating the SOP. If I don't wear the tie then I'm violating HER and the MANAGER'S rule. Either way, I lose and will be punished for such nonsense. So tomorrow I will be going to work in my short-sleeved shirt and without the sweater. Then if I get sick I will sue their asses.

Ok I probably won't sue. Mainly because I'm leaving in 6 months. However, how dare they threaten to punish me for NOT EVEN BREAKING GOVERNMENT POLICY!?! It's completely insane I tell ya...INSANE!

Why don't I wear the long-sleeve shirts? Because the collar rubs my neck raw to where it bleeds. I refuse to be in physical pain because of a poorly made uniform.

And if you are asking: How can they tell which shirt you are wearing under the sweater? You can tell because on the short-sleeve there is no room for the tie to fit comfortably. On the long-sleeve shirts there is an extra piece of fabric about 1/2 inch in width that is sewn on to accommodate the wearing of a tie whereas the short-sleeve shirts do not. It is so very obvious too but apparently I am the only one who noticed this difference between the shirts.

Seriously, I work with a bunch of assholes. *rolls eyes and sighs*

Unwelcomed. Uninvited.

2009-10-14T05:29:00.000-04:00

I am at work sittng in the breakroom while my coworkers are all sittng around me eating. They decided that today they were going to have a party. I had overheard cnversations about the party but not once did anyone ask if I wanted to bring anything or have anyhing to eat. One of our coworkers not assigned to our checkpoint asked why I wasn't participating and I simply said that I wasn't told about any party. When she asked them why I wasn't asked to participate one of them said it was because I don't eat meat.

A new low for mankind, uninviting someone because they are a vegetarian. It isn't as if there aren't foods on the table that I can't eat. They have noodles, mac and cheese, cupcakes, raw veggie platter, etc. But I'm not eating any of it because I don't want to hear them talking behind my back accusing me of mooching. No problem. I'm used to not being welcomed.

At the Lake

2009-10-12T10:58:00.000-04:00

Gulls skimming the water.

Yesterday I went down to the lake to enjoy some peace and quite and to also get out of the apartment. I'm always staying in these days but recently have decided to make it a point to go out whenever possible. Of course, I took my camera with me and tried to get some close ups of the gulls. The birds didn't want their photo taken and took flight the moment I got too close. At least I was able to capture this before they got too far.

Simple Pleasures

2009-10-08T18:09:00.000-04:00

I don't go outside enough. I don't enjoy nature, the silence, the beauty that I used to enjoy as a child. When I drive I find myself mesmerized by the stars on the horizon and the brightness of the moon's glow as it lights up the roads on my way to work. During the daylight hours as I drive home I stare at the trees as their leaves change and the way each leaf flutters, twists, turns, and flips as the wind pushes it away from the branches and onto the ground below. I enjoy these simple pleasures at a fleeting glance and then my attention is diverted again to the reality of me driving and slamming on my breaks.

As a child I would go outside and climb my favorite gum tree in our front yard and watch the world go by. On days when my dad needed me to go on the roof and clean the flue (which wasn't as often as it should) I would stay and sit on the rooftop feeling I was the queen of the world. I could see the entire neighborhood and for some reason no one seemed to see me. It was nice. Peaceful. Perfect. I don't know why I stopped.

Maybe it is because I grew up? Maybe it is because other things took over my life. School, band, theatre, college, parties, boyfriends, events, etc. It was all that I knew and all that I did and before I could even say goodbye, the simple pleasure of sitting outside and enjoying the day seemed to slip away from my things-to-do list.

I'm finished with school and although I go to work, it seems like a boring extracurricular activity to me. Just something to do to past the time as I wait for my favorite T.V. shows to air or for my career in the Navy to begin. Today, however, I made it a point to go outside. I'm sitting on the front stoop of our apartment watching the suns rays kiss the golden leaves goodnight as it makes it way under the cover of the clouds. My feet are bare, the mosquitos are buzzing in my ear, really annoying country music plays on my iPhone (it's on a movie soundtrack that I'm listening to), and the air is crisp as I type this entry on my laptop. Do I care that I'm a bit cold or that I'm fresh meat for the insects? No. I'm simply relishing in the fact that I actually have time to sit around outside and do absolutely nothing while thinking about absolutely nothing and it's wonderful.

I should really go outside and enjoy what's in front of me more often. Someday soon I will again find myself too busy to even smell the roses.

I hope I never that busy.

Currently
Sisterhood Of The Traveling Pants 2
By Original Soundtrack
Sunset Man by James Otto
see related

It's a Celebration!!

2009-10-01T03:41:00.001-04:00

Happy Birthday Taylor!!!!! ^_^

Furry Hornball

2009-09-19T18:54:00.001-04:00

Max my kitten is five months old now and has started to express his interest in Izzy, a two and a half year old female. Well, Izzy isn't interested at all and Max hasn't gotten the point (as most guys never do) and continues to mount her, depsite the fact that he isn't big enough to really dominate her. Little hornball needs to get his berries snipped soon or else we are going to have some major feline issues in this house.

Update on the previous post: my iPhone is back to normal and now I am going to be extra careful as to which apps I download. Thankfully I didn't have to go to the Apple store afterall. Phew!

iPhone Restoration

2009-09-09T12:12:00.001-04:00

I downloaded a new app today on my iPhone called Tap Tap Revenge 2. It's like Dance Dance Revolution but for your fingers. You can download modern pop/rock/rap/r&b songs and tap away to high score victory. However, while playing the song Gives You Hell by All American Rejects, all of my tapping caused an annoying glitch to occur.

Anyone who is familiar with the iPhone knows that when you do a fast double tap the screen automatically zooms in. Do the same thing again and it will either continue to zoom in or will zoom back out to normal view. While playing Tap Tap Revenge 2, the game had so many taps in a row that my tapping caused my screen to zoom in. Permanently. I exited the app in hopes that would fix it but to no avail. Even my home screen was zoomed in! There was nothing I could do so I turned the phone off. After restarting my phone, it was still zoomed in. I could maneuver around but it was annoying since only 6 icons at a time could be viewed on the screen (normally you can view up to 20 at a time). After many restarting attempts I finally went to my MacBook, plugged in my iPhone and started the restoration process. Which is where the phone is restored back to its factory settings.

At the moment it is restoring back to the last backup. I only hope that this back up will not include the glitch or else I'll need to go to the Apple Store. It just sucks that a simple iPhone app would do something like this. Once my phone is done restoring, I will report the bug to the creator of the app in hopes that no one else will have to go through what I just went though.

Edit: The restoration didn't work. Now my phone is still in super zoom mode plus it no longer has my songs or my downloaded apps on there anymore. Boo! I guess I'm off to the Apple Store today. -_-

Real News

2009-09-06T10:51:00.000-04:00

I'm currently watching Face the Nation with Bob Schieffer and he is talking to the Secretary of Education Arne Duncan about Swine Flu and what schools are doing to prepare. He started off by asking about President Obama's speech to the children. Once again, Mr. Duncan stated what should be common knowledge that the speech is to encourage children to do better in school, stay in school, and strive to become successful. These are things that a Capitalist society depends on! The success of the citizens! Duh! Anyway, what makes this broadcast so refreshing is that Mr. Schieffer is a civilized and educated journalist. He asks detailed yet precise questions and his tone is calm and respectful. He allows the guest to answer the question without any interruptions. He doesn't incite an argument with the guest but allows the television viewers to make their own assumptions and opinions based on the guests answers and explanations. If there is something that needs to be further explained, then he asks him/her to explain what they mean.

This is the complete opposite of what you see on ANY other news broadcast that you will find on Fox News. Even some CNN journalists like to interrupt and don't get me started on some of the prime time news journalists who appear to be respectful but cut off the guests words just so that they can ask their next question. I've never watched Face the Nation until today (I usually turn the TV off after Sunday Morning ends) but with the topic being education and since I'm a recent graduate, this particular broadcast caught my attention.

I think it is extremely important for all Americans to watch AND read a variety of news sources and not rely on only one. I read CNN.com and NY Times on my iPhone, I watch CBS, News 12 NJ, ABC, and NBC (fox isn't a news station but rather a hateful opinion station bent on inciting riots and hate towards anyone who disagrees with them). IF you choose to watch Fox, then you MUST watch the other stations if you want to hear the REAL truth, which is hard to find these days.

Anyway, I just had to put in my two cents since everyone and their retarded uncle seems to think they know it all about everything political or otherwise and aren't shutting up anytime soon.

On a personal note: I'm going to the Scandinavian Festival next to my apartment complex today!!! I'm so excited that I will be taking and posting photos of the event soon!! ^__^

It's A Family Affair.

2009-09-04T18:21:00.000-04:00

Last week my family (Peter, his gf Kim, Mom, and Dad) all came up to NJ to visit me. This was my dad's third visit but the other's first! It was so much fun and I had such a great time. The reason why they were here was because I was finally finishing college and we made a big celebratory week out of it. Here are only a few pictures of our time together.

Note: I didn't take nearly as many photos as I normally do because I didn't have a lens cap at first, then once I got it I forgot to put the battery in the camera. So most of these photos are from Wednesday night at my bf's parents house and Thursday at Ellis Island. Peter took many more and once I receive those I plan on posting them. Maybe. ~_^

Future FIL with the BF

My Mom on top of the Empire State Building

Future MIL

My dad

My Brother

My Bro's GF Kim

This flag can be found at Ellis Island. Look closely and you'll see there are multi-cultural faces in the flag. A wonderful representation of what America really looks like. ^_^

And there you have it folks! A quick look at my week with the family!!

*The above photo(s) is(are) copyright of Lydia R. Gillis. Any copying or using of this photo without my permission is stealing. So please, before you use just ask. You can ask me via comments on the most recent post of this blog. Thank you.*

Get Well Soon

2009-09-04T15:16:00.001-04:00

My boyfriend had told his coworkers that I wasn't feeling well and that he was taking care of me. They responded with a bouquet of flowers that arrived at my door yesterday.

People can be so wonderful sometimes. ^_^

*The above photo is copyright of Lydia R. Gillis. Any copying or using of this photo without my permission is stealing. So please, before you use just ask. You can ask me via comments on the most recent post of this blog. Thank you.*

Taking Care of Business

2009-09-02T10:22:00.003-04:00

Now that I have finished my B.A. degree, it is time for me to prepare for the Navy. All this means is that I need to exercise like an insane person and obtain all promissory notes from my lenders so that the Navy can pay off my student loans. What a great perk for serving your country, eh. ^_^

I've received two out of three promissory notes and am now upset with Sallie Mae's tardiness. It's been nearly three weeks now and still I haven't received anything from them. They were the ones who refused to fax it to my recruiter and insisted that I wait for the U.S. Postal Service to take care of the delivery. Seriously, who trusts those guys with anything other than their bills nowadays, and even that has gone digital. Yet, SM claims they do this for security purposes so I have no choice but to wait. Well, I will be calling them later this week if I don't see anything in the mail. I can't afford to wait much longer.

Other than that I can do whatever I want! It feels so great to be able to do nothing and not worry about homework or class times. There are some unfinished projects that needs to be taken care of, such as Kara's Bag, Little HawkBaby's doll, and some scarves that I started on three years ago. Seriously, I am way behind on my crafts. Plus, there are some books that I have started reading that need finishing. Now I have the time to do almost all of it before I leave for the Navy! Yay!!!!!! Isn't life after college just wonderful! I think so. ^__^

September Anniversaries.

2009-09-01T12:30:00.003-04:00

Today is my friend Taylor's 3rd wedding anniversary. Tomorrow is my 3rd NJ resident anniversary (the day I moved to NJ). September 9 is the day I officially became a vegetarian (will be 1 full year). Each of these days are important to me because they all speak of great changes in my life. I was supposed to be there for Taylor when she was married but unfortunately I had to be in NJ in time for school. I was there in spirit and now that are friendship has rekindled, I would like to wish her a very Happy Anniversary. Of course, moving to NJ was a big step in itself especially since I have no family up here and at the time I had no friends. As for becoming a vegetarian, well that is a BIG change. Giving up meat (including fish) is not and has not been easy. Yes, there have been times where I have craved or dreamed of eating meat but in the end it is my reason for giving it up that keeps me going.

Why did I give up meat?

I was taking an Animals & Justice class at the time. The class talked about factory farming, animal abuse, circuses, aquariums, the evolution of pets, etc. The first day of class the Professor showed us a film on how animals are slaughtered. I just couldn't take it. I cried the entire time we watched that video. In fact, I cried at a minimum of 5 times that semester. Then there were the cases of spousal and child abuse being linked to those who work in these factory farms (Because they beat the animals prior to slaughter and then escalate to domestic abuse). Also, the fact that the majority of our crops are grown to feed these animals that we later slaughter. Those crops, grains, soybeans, etc., are enough to feed all those who are hungry in the world for an entire year! (I used to have the information on my laptop but deleted it once I was finished with the fall semester). My point is that while I will eat meat if it is freshly killed or caught (hunting and fishing are fine with me so long as you eat it and not just kill for sport) but I will not support factory farms. I would much rather just eat vegetables for the rest of my life if that is what it takes.

It's my way of boycotting a poisoned industry. An industry that does not care about sanitary or humanitarian conditions but rather money money money. They don't care about the animals they cage up and become diseased or those who work for them. No one is really benefiting from these factory farms.

So this is why I gave up meat.

*I am also boycotting Wal-Mart and McDonald's because of their poor business practices and crappy services.

**I do support free range chickens, people who hunt their own food so long as it isn't wasted for sport, and fishing from small/local fisherman. However, the more we eat meat the more we create an imbalance in the ecosystem.

***Also, I'm not saying that omnivores are a horrible people for eating meat. I do not mind that people do eat meat and in fact my fiance eats meat. It's just that we need to be more conservative with the amount of meat we eat and also promote eating more vegetables.

Pretty in the '80s.

2009-08-31T17:18:00.004-04:00

Although I was born in 1983, I still missed a whole host of classic 80s films due to the fact that I was just too young to even care. Films such as 16 Candles, The Breakfast Club, and Pretty in Pink. To date, I have seen all of The Breakfast Club, most of 16 Candles (I keep catching it on TV after it's already begun, thus missing the beginning as always), and now for the first time I am watching Pretty in Pink. I quickly realized that the guy whose friends with Molly Ringwald's Character plays the brother with the son on Two and a half Men. I also quickly realized that the writers of She's All That stole the plot line from Pretty in Pink. Really, has Hollywood ran out of good ideas already?

Anyway, back to the film. Here I am watching it on AMC and it's the scene where Molly's character is taking two pink dresses and creating her own. They show the drawing and I'm thinking "this can't be what she's really designing." Then she walks out and bam! it was the dress she was designing. I had to immediately remind myself that this movie was made in 1986 and is only reflecting the style of the times. Such beautiful fabric but that dress was only pretty in the 80s. There is no way I would ever wear a dress that didn't accentuate my wonderful curves (I'm not talking fat rolls either).

Anyway, the movie is cute and I wish I had seen the first half (I stumbled upon this one while channel surfing). Maybe someday I'll go crazy and buy the DVD. ~_^

---
In recent Navy news: I just did my Swim PST with my recruiter and passed. I swam 500 meters in 12'30''. It had to be done in under 14 mins. I'm stoked!!! All I need to do is work on the pull-ups and push-ups and I'll be qualified for Search and Rescue. ^__^

A New Home

2009-08-29T14:23:00.002-04:00

I've been on here for a few months now and while I haven posted very often, I am slowly starting to make this my new blog home. For years I've been on Xanga. I even have a lifetime premium membership that I paid $100 to get. However, according to a famous blogger who calls himself thetheologianscafe, Xanga is starting to circle the drain. I can totally see it happening too and it makes me sad. All of those who I used to read have moved on to other blogging sites or quit altogether, forcing me to find new people to read. Feedback on my posts went from 20-30 a day to less than 1 a week on average! In the past I would read popular bloggers and they would read mine and comment, now when I read and comment on todays popular bloggers, I'm lucky if they even visit my site. The Xanga team has gone from 18 employees to 7 in less than a year and the content and function of the site is getting worse by the day. So now here I am on Blogger trying to make a fresh start.

Blogger is different and at the moment difficult to personalize. I'm having to learn new ticks and HTML codes and his is not fun. However, I do not forsee blogger going down the drain anytime soon so log as it's owned by google. Who knows, all that goes up must come down eventually. Until then, blogger looks to become my new home.

One thig I won't do is spend a dime on this site. I've had to learn that the hard way, unfortunately.

In the Navy

2009-08-28T18:59:00.003-04:00

I have just recently joined the Delayed Entry Program (DEP) in the Navy. I am scheduled to "ship out" as they say on November 3. However, for the past 2 years I've been preparing and training for the military. Of course, in the beginning it was for the Coast Guard but as you can tell by the title, that has changed.

Anyway, on Tuesday (I was supposed to do this the previous Friday but it was cancelled at the last minute) I did a mock PST with my recruiter so that she could see how much I have progressed. I am hoping to change my job to Rescue Swimmer before I ship out and in order to achieve that I must past the PST for that job. My reqs are as follows:

Run 1.5 miles in under 12 mins

Push up 35 times or more in under 2 mins

Sit up 50 times or more in under 2 mins

Swim 500 meters (10 laps) in under 14 mins

Pull-Up 2 times (or more if possible)

My run time was the best in the bunch. On a flat surface (I had been training on hilly terrain) I clocked in at 10 mins!! A big shocker for me since I was expecting my time to be longer.

I was able to do 52 sit ups but as for my push-ups, I almost did 35. I was on the 35th one but couldn't lift my body the rest of the way. Also, as it turns out I do not go all the way down to where my elbows form a 90 degree angle, so I need to work on that.

I already knew I could not do the pull-ups. I have recently purchased a pull-up bar for my apartment and for the past couple of weeks, ever time I passed it I would attempt to do some pull-ups. I've improved some but not to a full one yet.

We didn't do the swim because the pool wasn't open at 0800 so on Monday at 1200 we will be doing that. I know I can swim well but I don't know how fast I am. Also, now that I am officially finished with college (as of yesterday at 1802!! Woot!) I can no longer use my University pool to practice. I just hope I do well and in under 14 mins.

So I am almost there. I just need to work on my push-ups, pull-ups, improve my sit-ups, and find a swimming pool to swim in. Maybe the local YMCA will give me a DEPper discount. ^_^

(Horray for me for finishing college!! It took me 7 years to get that B.A. but it was well worth the trip.)

It's a Small World After All...

2009-08-21T21:14:00.003-04:00

Today I was checking my Facebook on my iPhone and noticed I had a message from TJ. He asked if I knew JF who asked about my brother Malcolm and talked about the Homestead. I was shocked to see that they knew each other. Of course I knew JF and I knew his sister KF! I haven't talked or seen them since they moved!! We were once next door neighbors back when I was in grade school.

Anyway, I looked them up on FB and friend requested them. Back when I went to Memphis, my close friends and I started to see a trend. U. Memphis's student population is about 20,000. In my mind that is enormous! I am from a town of about 2,000 so anything more than that seemed overwhelming to me and to this day I am still shocked at how many connections I had at that school. First I met Kara, who knew Tanya, who knew this person, who knew this person, and so on. Then I became friends with Jan who knew Tanya, and so-n-so, etc. Then I met another person who knew many more people including those I was already friends with. Before I knew it, I had some sort of connection with EVERYONE at Memphis! While to those who are from bigger cities and towns, this doesn't seem surprising, but for me it's still a shocker. I still get really excited when a friend of mine knows another friend of mine and it is through that connection that we are brought back together. Just like with TJ and I and our now mutual friends JF and KF.

This world seems so big until a moment like this happens. Plus, now thanks to the social networks our world is becoming even smaller. I wonder if I'll ever find my oldest friend Steph Webb? If so, I think I'll pass out. Ok, maybe not but I will be extremely excited. :-D

To Assume makes and Ass out of U and Me.

2009-08-19T12:52:00.008-04:00

Sometimes I'm afraid to talk for fear that I'll be accused of being prejudicial.

I am always carefully choosing my words because the one thing that I am NOT is prejudicial. I love people of all ethnicities, races, faiths, sexual orientations, etc. However, I've been in a few situations where people I work with or talk to will take what I say and twist it so that I sound like the bad gal. As a result, no friendship is formed and more negative feelings are spread. It bothers me that I cannot say what I wish to say without having to worry if it will be taken the wrong way. (and I do not mean to say that I want to say borderline prejudicial comments. That is not in my nature. I just don't want my words to be twisted to mean something totally opposite of what I really want to say.)

I cannot help it that I'm white, just like others cannot help it that they are black, tan, brown, yellow, red, gay, straight, etc. I am not responsible for the actions of others in the past but for my own actions in the past, present, and future. I have never committed a hate crime, shouted out hateful words towards others, or condemned anyone for being different than me. I have never advocated for the restriction of human rights but rather fought for all people to have the same basic human rights as everyone else. I will proudly stand by my sisters and brothers and fight for their right for gay marriage. I will stand by anyone who is being wronged and help them rise above the hate and prevail.

I just wish that those who are classified (by the government and society) as being part of the minority will stop assuming that because I am white that I secretly hate them for being different. If you give me a chance you will learn that I am far from hating you for what you are. If I don't like you it will be because you did something hateful or hurtful that makes me not like you. What you look like or who you date is of no concern to me.

Just let me show you who I really am.

Running On A Leak

2009-03-11T19:28:00.001-04:00

This morning I woke up expecting to just eat some oatmeal and then kiss the boyfriend goodbye for his workday. Instead, I walk into the kitchen to find out that the right rear tire of the Earth Destroyer is low. Turns out there was a metal fence piece jammed deep into the tire thus creating a slow leak. I drive to Wal-Hell for some inexpensive tires only to find that the tire and lube place is closed. :wtf: Instead I am forced to make my way to STS. Along the way I stop at a Shell station to give the tire some more air so that I don't have to drive at 20mph the five miles to STS. I get there and find out that the tires I want aren't in stock. We put on the spare and store the destroyed tire in the back and go home. Fortunately the spare is a full size tire and so I can drive at regular speeds however I don't plan on going anywhere far until after our Spring Break trip to GA. As a result I didn't go to the ISO meeting as planned, nor was I able to call the bank about finding out the exact amount of money that was taken fraudulently in my name. That will all have to be for tomorrow. It's late, I'm drinking my coffee, and later I plan on going to the gym. It is necessary that I build up my upper body strength or else I will literally die come the end of August when it is time for me to start Basic with the USCG. On a fun note, please watch this vid. It's a silly song and available for purchase if you really like it. I bought the album for $4. Suh-weet! :pleased:

My Name Is _____.

2009-03-06T15:18:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was an ordinary day. I went to work in order to obtain some necessary forms so that I could finish my application for a promotional position. Afterwards, I made my way home and stopped in a nearby town in hopes to purchase my monthly train pass. The ticket window was closed and my tummy was growling so I made my way to this tiny restaurant that serves Peruvian food. The food was excellent and very filling, well worth the price I paid. It wasn't until after my meal as I was walking to the car that my phone rang.

I don't usually answer 800 numbers but for some reason I felt I needed to this one time. I am glad that I did too for what was told to me over the phone has changed everything. My identity was stolen.

Read that again. Yes. I'm not kidding. This is not a ruse. My Identity, ME, was stolen. Someone used my SSN, name, address, etc., in order to get a line of credit from a bank I have no association with ever and then decided to just leave the debt unpaid. Now my credit report is in ruin. I immediately obtained all the names, numbers, and information that I could from the phone call and then proceeded to my local police department. There, I gave the officer all of the information I had and tried my best to think of who, what, when, where, and how this happened to me. I had hints that something was up but I didn't understand what they meant until after I was notified of this debt that was made fraudulently in my name. Before noon today I called the three top credit bureaus and filed for a fraud alert. I then called my bank and my credit card accounts to notify them as well of the fraud.

I feel so violated. There is more to this but I don't want to say it on here, this being the internet and whatnot.

In other and more positive news, I have Rosetta Stone online for free through my job. I have every language available to me at the moment and so for the past week I've been learning German. Since I only work on the weekends, I am much father ahead of schedule on the learning program than the average person would be if they only worked on it for an hour a day. I sometimes find myself putting in 3 hours!! I feel like I'm learning a lot but I'm not ready to use it yet. Anyway, I'm really excited and loving this program. If you can afford to buy it or you have the opportunity to use it for free then I say go for it. It is definitely more effective than taking 6 years of college language courses.

Here We Are.

2009-03-05T11:39:00.006-05:00

"Through timeless words, and priceless pictures

We'll fly like birds, out of this earth

And times they turn, and hearts disfigure

But that's no concern when we're wounded together

And we tore our dresses, and stained our shirts

But it's nice today, oh the wait was so worth it."

- Jason Mraz "A Beautiful Mess"

__________________________________________________________________

While the snow on the ground screams of winter, the birds outside singing their songs are saying otherwise. Spring is in the air and although it doesn't feel like it yet, it almost looks like it and most definitely sounds as if it is already here. I love Spring. It's so...alive. It makes me want to go out and plant some flowers, dance in skirts, and sing at the top of my lungs.

In less than a fortnight Frankie and I will fly down to Georgia and visit with my family. It has been nearly two years since they have seen him and so the excitement is clear whenever I talk with my brothers and mother. Everyone loves him and keep saying that "he's a keeper." I guess if you find a gold mine, then why keep looking for more when all you can want is here with you now. Right? I agree with their sentiment and so plan on keeping this boy for a long time. Forever sounds nice.

With my MacBook, I complied a Calender in German with my photos showcasing each month. March has Buttercups, his pet name for me and one of my favorite flowers. These photos were taken at my fathers house when Spring looks and feels alive by February and where flowers are in bloom by March 1st. In New Jersey, however, Spring doesn't like to show its face until late March or mid-April. I can never wait that long, hence why I make my pilgrimage to the South every March. There are just some things that will never leave my soul, and Spring is one of them.

We Will Always Play by Uncle Bill's Rules

2009-02-11T23:37:00.001-05:00

At the age of 83, he closed his eyes and bid farewell to years of Love, Family, Friends, History, and Life. On January 31, my Uncle Bill passed away.

Thankfully his final years were not alone. He had the company of his brother and sister-in-law, family members such as my father and I who would come to visit periodically, and a team of nurses that made sure he wasn't lost. He was suffering from Alzheimer's Disease in his final years (about 5 or so). I never visited him while he was sick; I was too afraid. My father once paid a visit a couple of years ago and gave the rest of us an update on his health. I was already too far away to afford the extra trip. I also couldn't afford a hotel room if I had visited. Instead, I just prayed for him and continued to ask my father for updates.

My Uncle Bill was a very active and caring man. He and his wife, my Aunt Katherine (RIP, died January 26, 1996), coordinated and participated in charity events. They were very active members in the community and were highly interested in preserving the history of the towns in which they lived. He also loved to play Scrabble.

Scrabble, when played properly, can be a very challenging and difficult game. Especially if your vocabulary isn't that strong. However, according to Uncle Bill you can look up the word prior to playing. In other words you can cheat. Before, my dad and I would never do that whenever we played but after a few games with Uncle Bill my dad claimed that we were to play by "Uncle Bill's Rules." Even if all you had was the word CAT, you could look up for another word as long as you want so long as the word you played was a real one. It definitely made playing Scrabble with my Uncle more interesting and rather educational as well.

I remember he made the best deviled eggs that he would make a decoration of a flower on top of each one. I only wish he had given me the recipe.

I remember he had the walking rocking chair. I always loved sitting in that chair. As you rocked it would move slowly to the right.

I remember that he drove faster and crazier than most and made hilarious comments to the other drivers that only he and his passengers could hear.

I remember his kindness towards others and towards us and that he and his wife were of the few that would come to our house to visit.

I remember the screen painting that he used to do and that he taught me how to create any design that I wanted. I still have the set to this day although I no longer use it.

I remember so much and hopefully will never forget the great things that my Uncle has taught me.

For the last 3 months I have been having dreams about my Uncle dying. After each dream I would call my dad and ask him to check up on our Uncle for me (he was my dad's Uncle as well). Unfortunately, my dad would forget about doing so after a long hard day at work and so I never found out. If it wasn't for the letter that my father's cousin had sent to him, we may have not known about his death for a long time. My father received the letter on Monday. I wasn't even notified until yesterday-through a text message. I cried as memories flooded through my mind and sadness swept over me. I cried at Wal-Mart while buying fabric because I had told the boyfriend about the news. It was when I reminded him that we always play by Uncle Bill's rules that he knew who I was talking about.

Later that day I reflected about the dreams I had and the thought of knowing this was going to happen soon and realized that although I didn't get to say goodbye to him, at least I never forgot him. I will miss my uncle a lot and even though he is no longer here, we will always play by his rules.

Rest in peace Uncle Bill.
October 29, 1926 - January 31, 2009

February Already?

2009-02-02T14:10:00.004-05:00

Wow, the first month has come and gone and with those first 31 days we Americans have a new President, a new Superbowl Champ (Congrats Steelers) even though the game was yesterday, and crazy weather. Ok, so January didn't really give us much but what it did give us was new hope, new resolutions, and new beginnings.

Today is Groundhog day and I don't know what that animal can really predict but if today's warm weather isn't any indication that spring is near then I don't know what is anymore. Yet, the weatherman says that tomorrow a crazy snow storm is to come. I guess I will know soon enough. In the meantime I am sitting in my shorts with the heat on because I can't really control it, sweating and wishing for that snow to come soon. I love spring but not when the heat in my apartment is on high. There is never much fun in that.

The leap year is almost over (it technically ends on Feb. 28 since it began last year on Feb. 29). I hope it was good one for all!

2009

2009-01-01T10:12:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year Everyone!!!

Let it Snow!

2008-12-19T10:28:00.002-05:00

The snow has been coming down for over an hour now and the accumulation is building up quickly. I absolutely love snow, it is what makes Winter such a wonderful season. Growing up I wasn't so blessed with Winter Wonderlands and White Christmases. That is because I grew up in the South where a snow flurry is enough to shut down businesses and schools.

Even if it is only a flurry, just the tiniest bit of snow makes me happy. Which is why I am ecstatic that we are having a snow storm! Ich liebe schnee!

Shipping Christmas

2008-12-18T14:16:00.002-05:00

Today I mailed five boxes to my family in the South. I decided to use UPS this year because they are faster and cheaper than the USPS. Also, it was closer than FedEx. I'm so excited about this year because I bought my oldest brother a really great gift that I absolutely know he will love. The suspense has been killing him and on Christmas Eve/Day, he will be videotaped so that I can see his wonderful reaction. I can't WAIT!

Anyway, now my Holly tree looks lonely without the gifts all wrapped up underneath. Maybe I'll be surprised later. Who knows. Then again, Christmas isn't about the gifts. It's about the family and that is much more important than anything anyone can ever give me. ^_^

Being Sick Sucks

2008-12-15T16:08:00.003-05:00

Since Friday I have been suffering from an annoying cold. Of course it didn't help that I went on a cruise on Friday and battled the cold wind, then danced up a storm and became all sweaty only to go back outside again. This weekend I had to work at the airport and so being around other sick people didn't improve my chances either. Last night I woke up twice due to nausea but since my stomach was empty I had nothing to do but stand around and try to feel better. Today I am hot, icky, and stuffy but maybe that is a good sign. Hopefully by tonight I will feel 100% again. Either way, I'm still going to the gym later to try and sweat out the toxins so that I will be better soon. Besides, who wants to be sick during the happiest times of the year, right?

NYC Lunch Cruise

2008-12-13T09:56:00.005-05:00

Yesterday I went on a Lunch Cruise with some friends of mine and with the International Student Organization (ISO). We set sail in NYC on the Hudson and East rivers. Our ship made its way past the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Downtown Manhattan, and under the Brooklyn Bridge before turning around and returning to the dock. I had such a great time dancing, eating, and taking pictures of this beautiful city. There were only a few things that I didn't like such as the club music that was played so loudly I could not even hear myself speak and the cold weather. It was extremely windy and brisk out so that wasn't much fun for me, especially since I am suffering from a cold. Other than those two things, the cruise was fantastic and I plan on doing it again with my boyfriend.

New Projects

2008-12-10T20:24:00.002-05:00

It has been seven years since I've played my flute. During those 7 years I have picked it up a few times and tried to play but I've noticed that I'm really rusty and my sound isn't as great. Plus, I've had nothing to drive me, to motivate me to play. That is until YouTube started this online audition for an orchestra. That's right, people will be submitting videos of them playing selected pieces to become a part of an orchestra that will play in Carnegie Hall in April 2009. I'm really excited because they are asking people from around the world, amateurs and professionals, to submit their videos. Now I finally have something motivating me to play my flute. I have until January 28 to submit so I really need to start practicing. Even if I don't get picked, just being a part of this first time event is well worth the time. Plus, I get to play my flute again.

Another project I am participating in is a photo contest that is being held by my town council. The theme is Winter in [mytownsname]: A Great Place to Live, Work, and Play. I already have some great winter shots from my town but I need more. Again, they are looking for amateurs and professionals of all ages and so I'm really excited to be a part of this contest. I feel like I am finally part of this town, which means so much to me since I've felt like an outcast for so long. I really hope I win but if not it will be fun taking pictures.

Music and photography are two passions that I seem to never have time for anymore. Yet, with these projects I am able to have reason to utilize my talents. Hopefully more projects will come along that will bring more joy into my life. In the meantime I am enjoying the present.

Autumn Flowers

2008-12-04T14:54:00.002-05:00

Back in June I went down to Tennessee to visit family, go to a wedding and a baby shower that was held on the same day, and catch up with some old friends. My friend Sherry had given me some flowers just before I left to come back home and it was in the end of October/beginning of November that my mum finally bloomed. I was so afraid I would never see its flowers but I'm glad that wasn't the case. This orange bloom is only 1 of 2 from the small plant and hopefully come next year there will be many more.

Anyone with a green thumb, or close to a green thumb, will know that some plants hibernate in the winter. If you never knew this before then you must not be from Earth because just living on this planet would tell you that. Why else do trees keep coming back every spring. We do not cut down the tree in the winter simply because it has lost all its leaves. No, we let it grow and mature so that the next Spring it will be bigger and more beautiful. This morning one of the maintenance guys tried to throw away my High Ginger plant. I was shocked and came running out yelling at him to stop. It took a few tries to get him to actually listen, mostly because of the language barrier. He told me that the office had informed him to throw out all garbage and so he assumed that my not dead plant was in fact dead and therefore garbage. First off, who are these people think they are telling employees to trash other people's belongings. I know I live in an apartment and so I share the land with others but that doesn't give them the right to throw away my plant. I called my future mother-in-law (FMIL) and asked if I could store my plants at her place for the winter. She was happy to oblige and so next week I will be making the trip to Pennsylvania to save my plants from the dumpster. I just cannot believe someone would do that to someone else's property. Egads.

So anyway, winter is fast approaching and I cannot wait. I love the snow and as luck would have it have already had two snow falls this season alone! The second one being on my birthday. It was a wonderful gift from God, that's for sure. I hope we have a great snowy winter, I would love to be able to make a giant snowman this year. ^_^

The Birthday

2008-12-02T01:20:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was such a great day. I received such wonderful gifts but the best part was that I was spending it with my family. Not everyone of course. It was my lovely boyfriend, his parents, and my dad that I celebrated with. There wasn't a cake but rather pumpkin pie with a dozen candles on top. Six of them were trick candles and when I saw them spark, I knew right away what was in store for me. I started laughing so hard that I could barely blow out the regular candles!!! It was a great time and delicious.

As for the gifts, I received some speakers for my MacBook, a wireless mouse to use at home for my MacBook, and $200 cash. I don't know what to do with the money. I'm debating on whether I should buy a Wii, some new clothes, or just put it in savings. We'll see soon enough.

^__^

Happy Birthday To Me!

2008-11-30T23:24:00.000-05:00

Today is my 25th birthday and I had such a fabulous time! I received some great speakers for my new laptop from my boyfriend, a wireless mouse for my laptop from my dad, $200 from my future in-laws, a great time with my family, and a ton of well wishes from my friends. Plus, now I can rent a car and the insurance for the cars will go down because of my age. Who said turning 25 didn't have its perks? ^_^

Happy Birthday to ME!

Thanksgiving

2008-11-28T09:57:00.000-05:00

This was my first thanksgiving as a vegetarian. My future mother in-law (FMIL) was very kind in preparing plenty of vegetarian dishes for me to eat. Foods such as white potatoes, sweet potatoes, string beans, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and cucumber (the last three being raw and cold, just the way I like them). There was of course Turkey for the meat eaters of the night. ^_^ Overall it was a wonderful thanksgiving meal.

Also, it was the first time my father met with the future in-laws. In the words of my dad "Thank goodness it was nothing like the movie." ;-)

Happy Thanksgiving Weekend!

Meanness

2008-11-26T23:11:00.000-05:00

I cannot understand why people can be so mean sometimes. Whenever I snap at someone or yell, I always end up apologizing for being so mean. Yet whenever people are mean to me they either don't see it or refuse to acknowledge it if they realize they have hurt my feelings. There have been too many days in my life where I have locked myself in a room and cried my eyes out to no one but myself or my cat.

I've been told that I am too nice and yes I can be for the most part. I do not, however, allow people to walk all over me like I'm some placemat. It seems that people confuse being nice with being submissive. Those are two totally different things and I become really annoyed with others assume they can take advantage of my niceness.

I was raised to be independent. I was told to think for myself. I was instructed to defend my self and beliefs. Then explain to me why people refuse to let me be me and why they insist on treating me with meanness.

-_-

Procrastination

2008-11-25T16:11:00.000-05:00

I do not know why I do this to myself but I tend to wait until the very last minute when it comes to major assignments. In my mind I keep telling myself that I have plenty of time and history has told me that I always pull through. However, I keep forgetting the panic that I go through prior to completing the assignment.

I just completed a major assignment today but only thanks to a classmate to lent me the book necessary for said assignment. Without this book I would have been S.O.L. and I cannot afford to miss any more assignments. I was also fortunate enough to complete the extra credit that is also due today. Again, I do not know why I do this to myself but so far I've pulled through every time.

Only 2 more major assignments to go and I'm done until the summer.

Reunion

2008-11-24T09:30:00.000-05:00

Last night my father arrived at the airport for his week long visit with me and my future new family. This week he and my future in-laws will be meeting one another for the first time ever. I'm pretty excited about this because I have had the pleasure of getting to know the future in-laws for over a year now and I know they will get along great. I am one lucky girl to have such a loving father, loving boyfriend, and his loving parents. Some people just click I guess. ^_^

I do, however, have tons of homework that I foolishly have put off until the very last minute and so the first few days will be rather dull. That is until Wednesday!! Oh yay!! I can't wait! Thanksgiving is always one of my favorite holidays. Especially this year since my birthday is this Sunday. I'll be 25 years young and going strong! Hehe...

Happy Turkey week everyone!

A Lazy Bum

2008-11-21T19:43:00.000-05:00

I've been such a bum lately, it's ridiculous. My dad is arriving on Sunday and I had so much time to do my homework and clean up the apartment but did I do that? No. I cleaned the bathroom, which says a lot because I hate cleaning bathrooms and dishes, and I also cleaned out my closet. That was a project in and of itself. However, I still have a paper and extra credit to do for my Sex Crimes class, plus I have to make up hours at the Animal Shelter. I had to miss this week because of the car troubles. Now I have to do all this with my dad around. Why do I wait so long to get stuff done? Because I'm the Queen of Procrastinators. Yay....

On top of that I have been slacking off at the gym. I've only gone once this week and I was scheduled to go three times! I plan on going later tonight but still, I shouldn't be so lazy. I made my goal for the MEPS but now I have to keep the weight down and build up my muscle strength at the same time. In my defense though I have been running sprints to the busses and trains for the past two days plus I've been doing some push-ups at home. Come Monday, Dad and I are working out and doing homework. Ok, my dad isn't going to do homework but I sure as hell will be...or else I'll never graduate!

I'm on campus in my uniform in the ISO office and it is hotter than the Land of Down Under in here. I guess I'd rather be hot right now than freezing my face off. I don't think I'll ever get used to the cold up here.

New Home.

2008-11-19T11:22:00.000-05:00

I have been blogging for quite some time now. My first bloghome was LiveJournal. Then I moved on to Xanga. However, Xanga is loosing its luster and its fanbase. They are creating Xanga Powered sites that are generating traffic away from its loyal customers and only promoting those who contribute to those other sites. It's dividing the community. I'm very frustrated about this because of the fact that I payed for a lifetime membership of Premium with Xanga and now I feel--well, unwanted. Plus, no one reads it much anymore. I'm not saying I expect people to be reading this one any time soon but if you do happen to stop by, please let me know. I'll even pay you a visit as well.

Isn't that what blogging is all about? Telling your story so that others know that you exist. So this is my story. I hope you find it interesting. :-)

Hello

2008-11-18T20:14:00.000-05:00

I don't have much to say at this moment except "Hello."

^_^