Write about the things you collect, include photos, tell why these items are cherished by you.
I collect a very common things- ticket stubs, wrist bands, receipts, little notes, etc. I have a blue glass cup I bought on a Mexican vacation that I stuff them all in. I usually write the date, where it was, and who I was with if it doesn't already say on it. It's fun to look back every few years and see everywhere I've been. Most of them are tiny or folded, and the cup sits on a book shelf. I think it's an almost mind-blowing sort of thing that I have this tiny cup with these tiny things, but yet the memories inside it are so enormous that I could never forget some of them!
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Day 25
Contrary to the vulgarity conveyed in this wrapping paper- I post this to show the humor within my family. No, we are not white trash, low class, foul-mouthed barbarians. Instead, we proved to have a hilarious Christmas this year after having a very difficult one last year after my grandmother passed away Christmas morning.
And we succeeded! In our own personal ways we carried on the memory of my grandparents and the things that made them laugh, by making each other laugh.
Day 24
Name your top 5 best holiday gifts given or received. Who gave it to you? Who were you giving it to? Why was it memorable?
In no particular order...
1. Car - for Easter after I turned 16 my parents helped me buy my first car, a purple/gray '95 Toyota Corolla. My pride & joy. My dad still drives it actually, and just replaced it with a 2012 Camry for himself. It will still go on to a nice driver!
2. Pig - another Easter gift (I guess we do Easter big in our family!). My aunt bought my older cousin a yellow lab puppy that came with the name Pig (later changed to "Dillon"). The dog has become part of the family, along with his other dog, Dallas.
3. Disney gift card- This year I gave my parents a gift card to the Disney kitchen store in downtown disney. My parents are having a house built in Englewood, FL and are selling my childhood home. I have had a lot of trouble coming to terms with this. It was a huge gesture for me to give them this gift and agree to go with my mom to help her pick out stuff for her new kitchen. I guess I'm starting to get used to the idea a little.
4. Kindle- last year my Dad got me a Kindle, sort of out of the blue. I hadn't asked for one, and my dad usually doesn't do my shopping (that's usually my mom's job). But knowing how much I love to read, he went out on his own, thinking it was cool and purchased it for me. I do love my kindle and use it a lot, but it was more the thought behind it that made me like it so much.
5. I've gotten a ton of gifts, and I've given a lot that I've been excited about. For some reason, I can't think of any right now. I love being with my family and laughing. Each year and each holiday, laughing with my family it the greatest gift.
In no particular order...
1. Car - for Easter after I turned 16 my parents helped me buy my first car, a purple/gray '95 Toyota Corolla. My pride & joy. My dad still drives it actually, and just replaced it with a 2012 Camry for himself. It will still go on to a nice driver!
2. Pig - another Easter gift (I guess we do Easter big in our family!). My aunt bought my older cousin a yellow lab puppy that came with the name Pig (later changed to "Dillon"). The dog has become part of the family, along with his other dog, Dallas.
3. Disney gift card- This year I gave my parents a gift card to the Disney kitchen store in downtown disney. My parents are having a house built in Englewood, FL and are selling my childhood home. I have had a lot of trouble coming to terms with this. It was a huge gesture for me to give them this gift and agree to go with my mom to help her pick out stuff for her new kitchen. I guess I'm starting to get used to the idea a little.
4. Kindle- last year my Dad got me a Kindle, sort of out of the blue. I hadn't asked for one, and my dad usually doesn't do my shopping (that's usually my mom's job). But knowing how much I love to read, he went out on his own, thinking it was cool and purchased it for me. I do love my kindle and use it a lot, but it was more the thought behind it that made me like it so much.
5. I've gotten a ton of gifts, and I've given a lot that I've been excited about. For some reason, I can't think of any right now. I love being with my family and laughing. Each year and each holiday, laughing with my family it the greatest gift.
Day 23
If you could have any job, what would it be?
An international educator! I think this job was created for me, it just took a few years for me to discover the position, find out the name of it, and then investigate the course to get there. I've known for a long time that I want to work with young people, and more recently that I thrive on a college campus. For a while, I simply thought I just couldn't cut ties with the happy memories I had at my undergraduate school. But, the vibrations through a university empower me, as does traveling and thinking about learning from schools and people all over the world.
I want to spend the rest of my life shoo-ing student away from the United States to discover things they never knew could be discovered in the world (as I once did). I also want to welcome students from all over the world to America with open arms in hopes that they will also discover new opportunities and interests.
I can't wait to not only bond with students, but learn from my co-workers and the experience they have. To say that I am eager is the understatement of the year- I am dying to gain any possible experience in an office. I would literally accept the chance to file paperwork if I got to eavesdrop of advising sessions. But, I know the more I exert myself, try, and have a little patience, it will all pay off in the end!
An international educator! I think this job was created for me, it just took a few years for me to discover the position, find out the name of it, and then investigate the course to get there. I've known for a long time that I want to work with young people, and more recently that I thrive on a college campus. For a while, I simply thought I just couldn't cut ties with the happy memories I had at my undergraduate school. But, the vibrations through a university empower me, as does traveling and thinking about learning from schools and people all over the world.
I want to spend the rest of my life shoo-ing student away from the United States to discover things they never knew could be discovered in the world (as I once did). I also want to welcome students from all over the world to America with open arms in hopes that they will also discover new opportunities and interests.
I can't wait to not only bond with students, but learn from my co-workers and the experience they have. To say that I am eager is the understatement of the year- I am dying to gain any possible experience in an office. I would literally accept the chance to file paperwork if I got to eavesdrop of advising sessions. But, I know the more I exert myself, try, and have a little patience, it will all pay off in the end!
Day 22
If someone made a board game of your life, what would it look like? What pieces would you need to play?
Immediately I pictured the classic Monopoly game board, but I suppose my life has been less than typical. I'm not a super creative person from scratch, I rather like to take foundations and build upon them. Perhaps I'd start with a basic monopoly shaped board with various game pieces. At random points in the game you may need to suddenly change your game piece and location on the board, as I feel like I've done most of my life. Beyond that, I see a lot of bright colors, a lot of quirky rules and a lot of "make things up as you go" sort of rules. The game would definitely be best played with close friends :)
Immediately I pictured the classic Monopoly game board, but I suppose my life has been less than typical. I'm not a super creative person from scratch, I rather like to take foundations and build upon them. Perhaps I'd start with a basic monopoly shaped board with various game pieces. At random points in the game you may need to suddenly change your game piece and location on the board, as I feel like I've done most of my life. Beyond that, I see a lot of bright colors, a lot of quirky rules and a lot of "make things up as you go" sort of rules. The game would definitely be best played with close friends :)
Day 21
If you returned (or went, if you've never been) to college to study anything you want, what would you major in, and why?
I'm very lucky- I absolutely loved what I studied. I would chose to study Spanish all over again. (However, I probably would minor in business this time, not secondary education.) I started college as a history major, something I thought I loved, but quickly changed after my first semester and realized it was my Spanish classes that I tried the hardest in, and looked forward to the most. I didn't do excellent in them- they were hard (you try studying for 4 years in a language that's not your first!), but for the first time I actually enjoyed worked long, tiring hours on papers and grammar (yes, grammar). Going to Spain for a semester was the best semester of my life, hands down. The unfortunate part was that we had a very high turn over rate with our professors, so it was hard to have sort of consistency within the department. We did however, have Professora Iglesia, a Cuban born in the Bronx, who I took 4-5 classes with during my time there. To call her a firecracker was an understatement. She taught us girls everything from how to dress before we went to Spain, to how to seduce a man with a fan, to how to hum the national anthem, and some nursery rhymes. And goddamn if I haven't used everything she's ever taught me at some point in my life since then at the most random times. A year after I graduated, she was diagnosed with the end stages of terminal cancer and died about a month later- which deeply shocked and saddened everyone she'd ever taught, including me. That's why, even though I've left my career as a Spanish teacher that she worked so hard to prepare me for, I still grasp very hard to the language and try to maintain as much of it as I am able to.
I might have put a little more effort into my speaking so I could be a more fluent speaker, or I'd have learned the subjunctive a little better- but I would undoubtedly major in Spanish again. As everyone slaved over their work and complained- I slaved over my work and was more than happy to.
I'm very lucky- I absolutely loved what I studied. I would chose to study Spanish all over again. (However, I probably would minor in business this time, not secondary education.) I started college as a history major, something I thought I loved, but quickly changed after my first semester and realized it was my Spanish classes that I tried the hardest in, and looked forward to the most. I didn't do excellent in them- they were hard (you try studying for 4 years in a language that's not your first!), but for the first time I actually enjoyed worked long, tiring hours on papers and grammar (yes, grammar). Going to Spain for a semester was the best semester of my life, hands down. The unfortunate part was that we had a very high turn over rate with our professors, so it was hard to have sort of consistency within the department. We did however, have Professora Iglesia, a Cuban born in the Bronx, who I took 4-5 classes with during my time there. To call her a firecracker was an understatement. She taught us girls everything from how to dress before we went to Spain, to how to seduce a man with a fan, to how to hum the national anthem, and some nursery rhymes. And goddamn if I haven't used everything she's ever taught me at some point in my life since then at the most random times. A year after I graduated, she was diagnosed with the end stages of terminal cancer and died about a month later- which deeply shocked and saddened everyone she'd ever taught, including me. That's why, even though I've left my career as a Spanish teacher that she worked so hard to prepare me for, I still grasp very hard to the language and try to maintain as much of it as I am able to.
I might have put a little more effort into my speaking so I could be a more fluent speaker, or I'd have learned the subjunctive a little better- but I would undoubtedly major in Spanish again. As everyone slaved over their work and complained- I slaved over my work and was more than happy to.
Day 20
Life is a work of art, or so they say. What beauty do you regularly appreciate/revere in your life?
I have a fascination with metropolitan cities, especially Baltimore. I was raised about 30-40 minutes west of the city, the next town after the one the last bus stop in out of the city. Growing up, I always wished the bus would come just one more town over so I could hop on and ride into the city without always begging my parents to take me. As I grew up, and started developing my interests and hobbies, I realized it was more of a cultural fascination that drew me to big cities. I loved Little Italy and Greek Town in Baltimore. Besides that, I loved that you could park your car and walk everywhere. The buildings were so tall, it was like you were nestled into your own little world. I was so eager to learn if other cities close by were as big and busy as Baltimore, and then my interest spread to Europe. Every city I've gone to, I've tried to truly step into what it has to offer beyond the tourist attractions. I like to ask a local, "where's you're favorite place to get coffee?" or a sandwich, or see a great view of the city, or go out, etc. and that's always how I've always come to appreciate a city.
I have a fascination with metropolitan cities, especially Baltimore. I was raised about 30-40 minutes west of the city, the next town after the one the last bus stop in out of the city. Growing up, I always wished the bus would come just one more town over so I could hop on and ride into the city without always begging my parents to take me. As I grew up, and started developing my interests and hobbies, I realized it was more of a cultural fascination that drew me to big cities. I loved Little Italy and Greek Town in Baltimore. Besides that, I loved that you could park your car and walk everywhere. The buildings were so tall, it was like you were nestled into your own little world. I was so eager to learn if other cities close by were as big and busy as Baltimore, and then my interest spread to Europe. Every city I've gone to, I've tried to truly step into what it has to offer beyond the tourist attractions. I like to ask a local, "where's you're favorite place to get coffee?" or a sandwich, or see a great view of the city, or go out, etc. and that's always how I've always come to appreciate a city.
Day 19
Self-Portrait: Post a picture of you that you like, write about yourself, post a video - what do you want your self-portrait to say about you?
This picture was taken last June when I was in my best friend's wedding. It was a day I felt very pretty. I got compliments all day about how I wore the bronze dress so well on my lanky body with my FL tan and brunette hair. I think the smile I wore all day was my best compliment to that dress, because I was genuinely happy for Sarah & Nate, and so truly honored to be a part of their wedding party with my other best friends, as well as some new ones (like my escort, Aziz, next to me).
In my last blog, I spoke about classiness. Weddings are THE place to have class. I have always had an issue with girls who put on a dress and don't act like a lady- no matter what age you are. It's a mother, or aunt, or older sister's responsibility to teach the younger women in their family how to act with poise and grace in public.
That being said- the gushing idiots we were the weekend prior to Sarah getting married were what make me love my friends and myself. In our gigantic hotel room in Lancaster, there were anywhere from 5-10 girls in and out all weekend for wedding activities and having not seen each other for such a long time, we were not classy. We screeched, we jumped, we ran around in our underwear, we flung things around, we acted like 14-year-olds and I loved it. But the second we left the old house the day of Sarah & Nate's wedding, and walked one-by-one down the center isle, our beautiful smiles were upon our faces, we were composed, poised and classy women.
I want my self-portrait some day to be me sitting very eloquently, and obviously proud of everything I have accomplished in my lifetime. However, I want to make sure whoever is painting/photographing/drawing me catches the slight smirk or twinkle in my eye the shows the fun and amusing person I was with those closest to me.
In my last blog, I spoke about classiness. Weddings are THE place to have class. I have always had an issue with girls who put on a dress and don't act like a lady- no matter what age you are. It's a mother, or aunt, or older sister's responsibility to teach the younger women in their family how to act with poise and grace in public.
That being said- the gushing idiots we were the weekend prior to Sarah getting married were what make me love my friends and myself. In our gigantic hotel room in Lancaster, there were anywhere from 5-10 girls in and out all weekend for wedding activities and having not seen each other for such a long time, we were not classy. We screeched, we jumped, we ran around in our underwear, we flung things around, we acted like 14-year-olds and I loved it. But the second we left the old house the day of Sarah & Nate's wedding, and walked one-by-one down the center isle, our beautiful smiles were upon our faces, we were composed, poised and classy women.
I want my self-portrait some day to be me sitting very eloquently, and obviously proud of everything I have accomplished in my lifetime. However, I want to make sure whoever is painting/photographing/drawing me catches the slight smirk or twinkle in my eye the shows the fun and amusing person I was with those closest to me.
Day 18
Who would you most like to meet and why?
As superficial as it seems to pick a celebrity- Blake Lively. I grew up fascinated with big cities (because I lived in a place quite the opposite of one), so the Gossip Girl books were mesmerizing to me, and it was exciting when my favorite books were turned into a TV series. Blake Lively places Serena Van Der Woodsen- a one time reckless party girl who eventually straightened out to become a classy young woman.
Besides the fact that I love the character she portrays- a girl who hits rock bottom but still picks her self up and leads a healthy, successful life- I think the way she portrays herself off camera is very classy. I love the word classy and I try to encompass this in my life. I look up to classy women. Blake Lively is not all over the tabloids. It's stated she's dating famous men, but she's not taking her clothes off and prancing around the world screaming details of her love life to the press.
I think I'd love to meet her to see her grace and poise face-to-face. I want to ask her how she keeps her grace under pressure and in front of so many people. I feel like it's difficult for me to keep my grace when I'm alone sometimes, much less around other people. I want to know her secrets and how she keeps smiling and seems so happy. Maybe she's faking, but every interview and picture of her seems so sincere. I envy her, and hope someday people look at me as I look at her.
As superficial as it seems to pick a celebrity- Blake Lively. I grew up fascinated with big cities (because I lived in a place quite the opposite of one), so the Gossip Girl books were mesmerizing to me, and it was exciting when my favorite books were turned into a TV series. Blake Lively places Serena Van Der Woodsen- a one time reckless party girl who eventually straightened out to become a classy young woman.
Besides the fact that I love the character she portrays- a girl who hits rock bottom but still picks her self up and leads a healthy, successful life- I think the way she portrays herself off camera is very classy. I love the word classy and I try to encompass this in my life. I look up to classy women. Blake Lively is not all over the tabloids. It's stated she's dating famous men, but she's not taking her clothes off and prancing around the world screaming details of her love life to the press.
I think I'd love to meet her to see her grace and poise face-to-face. I want to ask her how she keeps her grace under pressure and in front of so many people. I feel like it's difficult for me to keep my grace when I'm alone sometimes, much less around other people. I want to know her secrets and how she keeps smiling and seems so happy. Maybe she's faking, but every interview and picture of her seems so sincere. I envy her, and hope someday people look at me as I look at her.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Day 17
Instead of a list of your favorite things, write a list of your least favorite things, e.g. Worst book you ever finished, the color you hate, bad songs, bad romances, bad recipes.
The Scarlet Letter
the color green
matchbox 20
rise against
madonna
meatloaf
mushrooms, carrots, broccoli
sleeping away from home
modern warfare
Pittsburgh Steelers
bodily functions
spring
Jamaica
The Scarlet Letter
the color green
matchbox 20
rise against
madonna
meatloaf
mushrooms, carrots, broccoli
sleeping away from home
modern warfare
Pittsburgh Steelers
bodily functions
spring
Jamaica
Day 16
What are your biggest pet peeves?
1. Poor grammar. What did you do during 13 years of mandatory schooling if not learn???
2. Poor manners. Say thank you, you're welcome, hold the door for the person behind you.
3. Immaturity. Act your age. Be an adult. Everyone's allowed exceptions, but you can't be a kid forever (only at heart!).
4. Poor hygiene. Wash your hands, cover your mouth, blow your nose- don't sniffle for 10 minutes, shower daily, etc.
5. People who stay in the same town forever. Born and raised in Town A, attend Town A High School, attend Town A College, get a job in Town A, live their entire life in Town A. How can you have a perspective on anything if you've never been anywhere?
1. Poor grammar. What did you do during 13 years of mandatory schooling if not learn???
2. Poor manners. Say thank you, you're welcome, hold the door for the person behind you.
3. Immaturity. Act your age. Be an adult. Everyone's allowed exceptions, but you can't be a kid forever (only at heart!).
4. Poor hygiene. Wash your hands, cover your mouth, blow your nose- don't sniffle for 10 minutes, shower daily, etc.
5. People who stay in the same town forever. Born and raised in Town A, attend Town A High School, attend Town A College, get a job in Town A, live their entire life in Town A. How can you have a perspective on anything if you've never been anywhere?
Day 15
Did you taste any new flavors this year? Did you love or hate them or something in between? Will you incorporate these new flavors into your life?
I rarely cook American dishes. I usually cook Spanish, Cuban, Mexican, or Italian meals. However, within those cuisines, I think I played it safe this year. Off the bat, I would answer this question with "yes, of course!" But, when I actually thought about it- no, I don't think so. I love trying new foods, and I'm sure I've eaten at new restaurants this past year, but nothing stands out by any means. I so desperately sought comfort in all aspects of my life this year that a can of spaghetti O's was usually my go-to meal, rather than trying one of the 50 new recipe's I'd gathered.
A new year's resolution: cook for myself more. I was always bummed out at the idea of cooking a great meal with no one to share it with. But, why not? Why shouldn't I feed myself an amazing meal I've put a ton of effort into making? I enjoy cooking and it's time to start exploring this hobby more!
I rarely cook American dishes. I usually cook Spanish, Cuban, Mexican, or Italian meals. However, within those cuisines, I think I played it safe this year. Off the bat, I would answer this question with "yes, of course!" But, when I actually thought about it- no, I don't think so. I love trying new foods, and I'm sure I've eaten at new restaurants this past year, but nothing stands out by any means. I so desperately sought comfort in all aspects of my life this year that a can of spaghetti O's was usually my go-to meal, rather than trying one of the 50 new recipe's I'd gathered.
A new year's resolution: cook for myself more. I was always bummed out at the idea of cooking a great meal with no one to share it with. But, why not? Why shouldn't I feed myself an amazing meal I've put a ton of effort into making? I enjoy cooking and it's time to start exploring this hobby more!
Day 14
Is volunteering something you do regularly? If yes where do you volunteer? If not, why not?
No. This is unfortunate and makes me feel a little guilty. During high school and college, I would say I volunteered more than the average student. I was very involved with United Way, because it gave me an opportunity to embark on alternative spring breaks around the country where I met incredible people.
Now however, as selfish as it sounds, I have too much work to do on myself to devote work to others. I would never turn down the opportunity if someone asked me to volunteer, but at this point I would not seek out the opportunity. Money is super tight, I have many time constraints between working full time and going to school full time, and I'm in a transition stage of my life that I have to figure out what I'm doing with myself before I can worry about anyone else. For the first time, I'm okay with being selfish, because I know someday I will be able to pay my debt back to society.
No. This is unfortunate and makes me feel a little guilty. During high school and college, I would say I volunteered more than the average student. I was very involved with United Way, because it gave me an opportunity to embark on alternative spring breaks around the country where I met incredible people.
Now however, as selfish as it sounds, I have too much work to do on myself to devote work to others. I would never turn down the opportunity if someone asked me to volunteer, but at this point I would not seek out the opportunity. Money is super tight, I have many time constraints between working full time and going to school full time, and I'm in a transition stage of my life that I have to figure out what I'm doing with myself before I can worry about anyone else. For the first time, I'm okay with being selfish, because I know someday I will be able to pay my debt back to society.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Day 13
What are 3 things you are better at than most people?
1. Grammar/Writing. I cringe when adults have gone through 12 years of mandatory schooling, and usually 4 years of university and still don't know where to place a comma, or which "there" to select. I have always been a strong writer, probably because I enjoy it so much, but nothing bothers me more than an educated adult who cannot articulate themselves well on paper/electronically.
2. Drive. I know women have a bad reputation for being poor drivers. I do not think this is entirely accurate, but I have driven with and seen too many that have made me realize why the stereotype exists. I think women get into the car and have to fool with the radio, check their make-up in the mirrors, think about everything they need to do that day, pull gum out of their purse, etc. Guys can just get in the car and drive. I think I have more of a guy mentality when it comes to driving. For me, driving is like my "zen" place. It's a place for me to chill, not think about anything, listen to my favorite music (sometimes horribly sing), and just drive. I've been told by many that they are very comfortable driving with me.
3. Co-existing with roommates. I have had 13 roommates in my life, 15 if you count the family I lived with in Spain. Through four years of undergraduate, and moving each year since I've graduated, included into some 3-bedroom and 4-bedroom apartments, I've lived with mostly girls, but a couple guys too, and even with some family members. Only with the very first one did I have issues with. She ended up dropping out after our freshman year and moving home anyway, so who's issues do you think it was? (haha) The range of people I have lived with have spanned from a burly outdoors-woman, to a girl who loved Family Guy and dead baby jokes, a New Jersey girl who loved Brazilian men, a few central PA girls, a cheerleader sorority girl, a girl who followed me like a lost puppy, and an african-american with some serious attitude. But, through them all I never had issues and they never had issues with me, and I was even good friends with the majority of them. I know the ins and outs of being a roommate- don't blast music past 10:00pm or so, that there's no need to turn every light on late at night, getting up early doesn't mean everyone else wants to get up early so stay quiet, clean your own mess up, help out around the apt/house, etc. I love living with roommates, even ones I haven't been close with. That extra body on the other side of the wall has made my life a little less lonely sometimes when I've lived so far from home :)
1. Grammar/Writing. I cringe when adults have gone through 12 years of mandatory schooling, and usually 4 years of university and still don't know where to place a comma, or which "there" to select. I have always been a strong writer, probably because I enjoy it so much, but nothing bothers me more than an educated adult who cannot articulate themselves well on paper/electronically.
2. Drive. I know women have a bad reputation for being poor drivers. I do not think this is entirely accurate, but I have driven with and seen too many that have made me realize why the stereotype exists. I think women get into the car and have to fool with the radio, check their make-up in the mirrors, think about everything they need to do that day, pull gum out of their purse, etc. Guys can just get in the car and drive. I think I have more of a guy mentality when it comes to driving. For me, driving is like my "zen" place. It's a place for me to chill, not think about anything, listen to my favorite music (sometimes horribly sing), and just drive. I've been told by many that they are very comfortable driving with me.
3. Co-existing with roommates. I have had 13 roommates in my life, 15 if you count the family I lived with in Spain. Through four years of undergraduate, and moving each year since I've graduated, included into some 3-bedroom and 4-bedroom apartments, I've lived with mostly girls, but a couple guys too, and even with some family members. Only with the very first one did I have issues with. She ended up dropping out after our freshman year and moving home anyway, so who's issues do you think it was? (haha) The range of people I have lived with have spanned from a burly outdoors-woman, to a girl who loved Family Guy and dead baby jokes, a New Jersey girl who loved Brazilian men, a few central PA girls, a cheerleader sorority girl, a girl who followed me like a lost puppy, and an african-american with some serious attitude. But, through them all I never had issues and they never had issues with me, and I was even good friends with the majority of them. I know the ins and outs of being a roommate- don't blast music past 10:00pm or so, that there's no need to turn every light on late at night, getting up early doesn't mean everyone else wants to get up early so stay quiet, clean your own mess up, help out around the apt/house, etc. I love living with roommates, even ones I haven't been close with. That extra body on the other side of the wall has made my life a little less lonely sometimes when I've lived so far from home :)
Monday, December 12, 2011
Day 12
Name and explain the one guilty pleasure you can’t live without. ie: that cupcake shop you visit weekly, a book you repeatedly read to find solace in, etc). Then explore the idea of how you would feel if you gave that thing up for a year.
Alohamora. Lumos. Fixo repairo. I am a Harry Potter nerd.
I remember my mom seeing something about the Harry Potter books on a talk show she watched when I was in middle school. By then the 1st two were published and there were some pretty long wait lists at the library already, so I bought them and the obsession began. From then on I, along with many other kids, anxiously awaiting the arrival of each following book and was very disappointed when I finished and closed book 7. The movies kept HP new and refreshing, adding faces to the names across the pages I'd read. I own each movie and have seen them all dozens of times, though the books will always be superior.
My favorite thing about the books is Hermione. She is a what every girl should strive to be. I get so sick so of these Bella from Twilight characters whose lives revolve around a guy(or guys) and their emotions are all over the place. Hermione is strong, a fighter, intelligent, confident in her abilities and who she is, and stands behind her friends. I love the strength and determination in all the characters, even Ron, I think they are perfect role models for children and adults.
No Harry Potter for an entire year? I often pick up any of the books and open to a random page and start reading. I usually put in one of the movies during a couple week nights to fall asleep to. I can't imagine not having that comforting feeling that Harry Potter gives me. It requires little brain power because I've become so familiar with it, and after a long day it's just what I want to curl up with. I think I would inevitably rely on reality and therefore lose many many many brain cells that year :/
Alohamora. Lumos. Fixo repairo. I am a Harry Potter nerd.
I remember my mom seeing something about the Harry Potter books on a talk show she watched when I was in middle school. By then the 1st two were published and there were some pretty long wait lists at the library already, so I bought them and the obsession began. From then on I, along with many other kids, anxiously awaiting the arrival of each following book and was very disappointed when I finished and closed book 7. The movies kept HP new and refreshing, adding faces to the names across the pages I'd read. I own each movie and have seen them all dozens of times, though the books will always be superior.
My favorite thing about the books is Hermione. She is a what every girl should strive to be. I get so sick so of these Bella from Twilight characters whose lives revolve around a guy(or guys) and their emotions are all over the place. Hermione is strong, a fighter, intelligent, confident in her abilities and who she is, and stands behind her friends. I love the strength and determination in all the characters, even Ron, I think they are perfect role models for children and adults.
No Harry Potter for an entire year? I often pick up any of the books and open to a random page and start reading. I usually put in one of the movies during a couple week nights to fall asleep to. I can't imagine not having that comforting feeling that Harry Potter gives me. It requires little brain power because I've become so familiar with it, and after a long day it's just what I want to curl up with. I think I would inevitably rely on reality and therefore lose many many many brain cells that year :/
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Day 11
How are you like your mother?
I've talked a lot about growing up over these few entries. As I've done a lot of grow up and becoming who I am, I've noticed a lot of my mother's traits in me. If I had to answer this question 10 years ago, I think I would have simply said I am nothing like my mother.
I have my mother's sensitivity and strong desire to please. No matter how much I want to do something for myself, I still want other's approval and support. If someone is not happy with me- a friend, a relative, a stranger- it upsets me. I inherited this from my mother.
I think I am growing into my mother's bubbly personality. She has the type of personality that lights up a room when she walks in. I have always envied this. I'm typically shy around people I've first met, and don't do well in situations with a lot of people- but as I grow I realize I do have a lot of my mother's outgoing personality traits, I just need to tap into them.
But, we are opposite in a lot of ways as well. My mother is very emotional, deals with stress quite poorly, and wears her heart of her sleeve. I am more introverted and reserved with my emotions, and I think this is from seeing how crazy my mother can be sometimes. I love my mother, she's the person that has been unconditionally there for me my entire life, she is my biggest fan, and the other person I'd feel comfortable calling at 3:00am no matter what's going on. Yes, 3:00am.
I've talked a lot about growing up over these few entries. As I've done a lot of grow up and becoming who I am, I've noticed a lot of my mother's traits in me. If I had to answer this question 10 years ago, I think I would have simply said I am nothing like my mother.
I have my mother's sensitivity and strong desire to please. No matter how much I want to do something for myself, I still want other's approval and support. If someone is not happy with me- a friend, a relative, a stranger- it upsets me. I inherited this from my mother.
I think I am growing into my mother's bubbly personality. She has the type of personality that lights up a room when she walks in. I have always envied this. I'm typically shy around people I've first met, and don't do well in situations with a lot of people- but as I grow I realize I do have a lot of my mother's outgoing personality traits, I just need to tap into them.
But, we are opposite in a lot of ways as well. My mother is very emotional, deals with stress quite poorly, and wears her heart of her sleeve. I am more introverted and reserved with my emotions, and I think this is from seeing how crazy my mother can be sometimes. I love my mother, she's the person that has been unconditionally there for me my entire life, she is my biggest fan, and the other person I'd feel comfortable calling at 3:00am no matter what's going on. Yes, 3:00am.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Day 10
What is the best and/or worst thing about your life right now?
This is a challenging question to face right now. In a way- I feel like I am at the worst of my worsts and the bests of my bests all at the same time.
The worst part of my life, and will remain so for an unforeseeable length of time, is that I am away from my best friends and family. Sometimes I miss them so much it actually hurts. I hope that everyone in their lifetime has at least one friend like the few I have. Knowing that they will always have my back, that I will never be forgotten about, and that I am unconditionally appreciated and loved in many ways is the best feeling in the world.
Additionally however, in the very present moment- and this is about to get very personal- the worst thing is that my 2 year relationship has ended. It's safe to say that he was the first guy I feel in love with and I don't regret the great feeling of letting myself do that. But it is the worst in many ways. We are on, I suppose what is classified as a "break." I have hated that word and what it stands for ever since I heard it- but I suppose it's what we needed. Sometimes though I feel like it's just us selfishly keeping the other around or us not having the strength to truly end it. I see so much good in him and what we had that gets muddled by a lack of anger control, alcohol, and a poor attitude. As I mentioned in my first blog- I believe, aside from the arguing, that we weren't working because we no longer saw eye-to-eye on any beliefs, values, life goals, or priorities. Sometimes I honestly want to shake his birth certificate in his face to remind him that he is a 24-year-old acting like that of a 20-year-old. I cannot be with, nor would I get into a relationship with, a 20-year-old. But it is frustrating to have no concrete ending yet, and no opportunity to sit down and hash things out reasonably- so I feel like I am constantly floating in limbo. I waver back and forth about whether I want to be with him or not, but with no opportunity to sit down and ask what he needs from me, and tell him what I need from him, I'm afraid we will be on repeat.
But there are amazing things about my life. I am going home in 5 days! Back to Baltimore with visits to Lancaster and Newark, NJ planned. I will get to go shopping with my mom, wrestle with my 4-legged niece, play trivia at the bar with my college friends, hopefully see some snow, and celebrate Christmas with my hilarious family. All those things are great. And in February I am going to complete my second 1/2 marathon, this time with 2 close friends who are coming to visit. I would say the greatest thing about my life is my future. Even in the darkest of times, one must always remember to turn the light on. For me- my light is my future.
Day 9
What was your favorite children's book?
My favorite children's books was the Madeline series. "In an old house in Paris that was covered in vines, lived twelve little girls in two straight lines ..." It was the stories of little catholic boarding school girls who lived in Paris. The whole books were written in rhyme so they were very easy to read. I loved the mischief Madeline always got into- but how Miss Clavel always seemed to love her the most.
Madeline and her schoolmates were like sisters, being that they all lived together and did everything as a group. I grew up as an only child, so I think I gravitated to these books because of the camaraderie it portrayed. Additionally, I think these books may have been the very first spark in my brain that began my lifelong fascination with languages and cultures. I used to memorize the short French phrases they said.
My parents even bought me a Madeline doll :)
My favorite children's books was the Madeline series. "In an old house in Paris that was covered in vines, lived twelve little girls in two straight lines ..." It was the stories of little catholic boarding school girls who lived in Paris. The whole books were written in rhyme so they were very easy to read. I loved the mischief Madeline always got into- but how Miss Clavel always seemed to love her the most.
Madeline and her schoolmates were like sisters, being that they all lived together and did everything as a group. I grew up as an only child, so I think I gravitated to these books because of the camaraderie it portrayed. Additionally, I think these books may have been the very first spark in my brain that began my lifelong fascination with languages and cultures. I used to memorize the short French phrases they said.
My parents even bought me a Madeline doll :)
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Day 8
Why blog? Why do you or why do you like to blog?
I blog for personal reasons. As evidenced- for these entries I have created a separate, public, blog. My other blog is private and not read by anyone. I recognized many years ago that I am the type of person that in times of anger, crisis, dilemma, or other intense emotions, I need to release them. Knowing that other human beings are not always the best solution for releasing said emotions upon, I created a blog about 6 years ago and have chronicled my life and the ups and downs of it since.
I look forward to blogging about my life at the end of a long day. I also greatly enjoy pouring out my soul on a day I'm having a lot of thoughts. But most of all, I immensely enjoy reading where I was this time last year, two years ago, or even 6 years ago every once in a while to see just how far I've come :)
I blog for personal reasons. As evidenced- for these entries I have created a separate, public, blog. My other blog is private and not read by anyone. I recognized many years ago that I am the type of person that in times of anger, crisis, dilemma, or other intense emotions, I need to release them. Knowing that other human beings are not always the best solution for releasing said emotions upon, I created a blog about 6 years ago and have chronicled my life and the ups and downs of it since.
I look forward to blogging about my life at the end of a long day. I also greatly enjoy pouring out my soul on a day I'm having a lot of thoughts. But most of all, I immensely enjoy reading where I was this time last year, two years ago, or even 6 years ago every once in a while to see just how far I've come :)
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Day 7
Who or what makes you laugh so hard that milk shoots out of your nose and why?
My undergraduate roommates and our inside jokes. Since I graduated in 2009, I have yet to find another niche of people that can make me laugh- honest to goodness laugh until my abs hurt like I've done 1,000 sit-ups- like Amy, Sarah & Lonni. I think perhaps it was the comfort level I immediately felt when I moved in with them that allowed me to laugh so outrageously. I affectionately refer to these girls as my gypsies.
Our inside jokes had to do with baby's hair, young willy, the magical pony, UM HELLO?, ticks, aerodynamics, educational vomit, leaves, a halloween party, etc etc etc. To anyone reading this- I seem crazy. To three other people in this world, this makes perfect sense and they're giggling.
To this day, when I get together with any or all of these girls, the laughing and giggling restores my soul. It's refreshing and invigorating and completely necessary after spending months apart. Amy and I speak on the phone every few weeks and after 10 minutes of necessary catch-up, we immediately dissolve into a fit of giggles about this, that, or the other thing. There's no one else I can laugh so hysterically with when I'm not face to face.
I think it has more to do with the immense love I have for these friends, and how I care so much about them. I want to make them laugh and I'm comfortable around them more than anyone else to drop my guard completely and laugh my booty off :)
My undergraduate roommates and our inside jokes. Since I graduated in 2009, I have yet to find another niche of people that can make me laugh- honest to goodness laugh until my abs hurt like I've done 1,000 sit-ups- like Amy, Sarah & Lonni. I think perhaps it was the comfort level I immediately felt when I moved in with them that allowed me to laugh so outrageously. I affectionately refer to these girls as my gypsies.
Our inside jokes had to do with baby's hair, young willy, the magical pony, UM HELLO?, ticks, aerodynamics, educational vomit, leaves, a halloween party, etc etc etc. To anyone reading this- I seem crazy. To three other people in this world, this makes perfect sense and they're giggling.
To this day, when I get together with any or all of these girls, the laughing and giggling restores my soul. It's refreshing and invigorating and completely necessary after spending months apart. Amy and I speak on the phone every few weeks and after 10 minutes of necessary catch-up, we immediately dissolve into a fit of giggles about this, that, or the other thing. There's no one else I can laugh so hysterically with when I'm not face to face.
I think it has more to do with the immense love I have for these friends, and how I care so much about them. I want to make them laugh and I'm comfortable around them more than anyone else to drop my guard completely and laugh my booty off :)
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Day 6
List 10 Things You Would Never Do.
I've recently entered a stage of my life where I've realized it's best to stop saying no and start saying yes- so the phrase "never say never" has surfaced in my head a few times recently. NEVERtheless (haha): 10 things I would never do...
1. Have plastic surgery
2. Voluntarily give blood (as much as I would love to), I physically cannot do this, I faint just at the thought of it
3. Raise a child without discipline, morals, and a clear sense of right from wrong
4. Give up my guilty pleasures- stuffed animals, Disney movies, spaghetti O's, funky pens, fuzzy socks, etc.
5. Go more than a week or so without talking to my family and friends. Even at my busiest I'm still thinking about my friends and making post-it notes to call or message them.
6. Leave the dishes in the sink for more than a day- I can't stand it!!!!
7. Live my life without a dog. The second I sign a lease to a pet-friendly place the mission to purchase a French Bulldog will begin.
8. Go so far away from "home" that I can't come back for Christmas. I promised my mom this when I was 20-years-old and I plan to stick to it for the rest of my life.
9. Let someone else tell me what I deserve. I am in control of my own life.
10. LIMIT MYSELF- I have trapped myself in too many frames of mind, relationships, and scenarios where I cannot achieve my full potential and I will NEVER do this again!!!!! :)
Monday, December 5, 2011
Day 5
What is the one thing you finally did this year that you always wanted or said you were going to do, but in your heart of hearts never thought you would actually do?
Begin my masters degree. It is such a simple statement. It is a feat that 1,000s of humans start and finish each semester. In today's society it is becoming more and more crucial for continued success in the working world. But for me it was something I always thought about in my wildest dreams, but never actually thought I'd pursue, much less be successful with.
I come from a family of "non-collegiates" :) I love my family- we are bright, outspoken, full of life, and strong. However academia has never been a strength in our family, as you will never see any members proudly hanging degrees or certifications in an office or room anywhere. And then there is me. I was the first in my family to earn a Bachelor's degree and it was an extremely proud moment as I felt like I earned my degree for my family.
The fact that I am now earning my master's degree is beyond my wildest imagination. I just finished my first semester and worked harder than I thought I would have to, but it has paid off- I have earned A's so far in 2 of my 3 classes. I love my school, I love my classmates, the concepts I learn, my professors, the papers I write, the chapters I read. There are few things in life I'm embarked on without something I've disliked.
I started my master's this year, just as I have always wanted.
Day 4
In the movie version of your life, which actor/actress would play you and the significant players in your life? What kind of movie is it (e.g., made-for-TV, action, emo/indie, etc.)? What would be the major plot points, and how will it end?
This is a difficult question for me, as I have never been one to know much about movies, or actors/actresses. I do know one thing- if a movie was made that depicting my infancy through my current age- I would need a different actress every couple of years (not just for obvious age issues). I have changed so much over my short lifetime that I have dozens of actresses floating in and out of my mind but none of them seem to encompass all the stages I've been through.
I've recently become a huge fan of the sitcom Whitney. I would love Whitney to portray me in my 30's. She's not married, she loves her career, lives in a great apartment, and has a healthy relationship. I think the thing I love most about Whitney on the show is her quirkiness- she has obvious issues and is not afraid to address them. She's funny, she tells things how they are, and has wonderful relationships with her friends.
A major plot point would be when I begin my student affairs career. I think this will certainly define who I become as a woman. The reasons I have chosen to complete my masters and begin this career completely encompass who I am as a person so much, that I simply cannot wait to be her. I think my movie will take a definite turn- similar to the definite turn it will take when my time abroad is portrayed.
I suppose if I HAD to classify it- I'd call it a made-for-TV movie. It certainly wouldn't be a romantic comedy because who knows if I'll get my happy ending. I continue to laugh at myself and hope for the best, but we never know what lies ahead. I take risks that sometimes make me feel like I'm in an action movie, especially when the results feel like things around me are blowing up (albeit metaphorically!). My movie would be autobiographical... more of an E! THe True Story of Patricia :)
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Day 3
Day
3: How did you become more of a
grown-up this year? Or did you pull a Peter Pan and stubbornly remain
childlike?
Recently, a major relationship in my life came to a sort of end. It was not an abrupt end, or a screeching halt, but more like when you untie two balloons from one another but they still float freely next to each other in the space they used to occupy together. There was much turmoil in the latter portion of this two year relationship. What started smoothly and happily when both of us lead similar lives, quickly unraveled when life goals and motivations differed.
I am 24-years-old, having recently just celebrated this birthday. 99% of my friends are well settled into their careers, some married (or almost), some are homeowners, and some may even have children soon. I still live in a college apartment complex and socialize with mainly undergraduates though I graduated from undergrad nearly 3 years ago. Last year I was okay with my lifestyle, thinking that I had my whole life to be an adult. I thought this lifestyle would keep me young and more laid back.
However, in recent events (i.e. the ending of the referenced relationship), I also realized its quite alright to want to grow up. Everyone has to at some point. Every one leads their life differently, choses a different path, makes different decisions. If someone's happy with this lifestyle, more power to them. I'm confident that I am ready to move into the next stage of my life. At 24, I typically enjoy activities without alcohol more than activities with alcohol. I don't need a buzz to talk to new people anymore, and I can certainly go longer than a weekend (*gasp*) without having a sip of it. I look forward to long saturdays of schoolwork, because I chose my degree since I love it. I budget my money well (although there's not much of it) because I am always planning for my future, something I rarely did a few years ago. I am seeking friendships with like-minded individuals who have moved past their undergraduate-state-of-mind, embraced their age and are willing to act accordingly with me. I'm ready to encompass the word adult to the fullest degree- while still realizing that I can still be 24-years-old. After all, Disney movies are among my favorites, I like to put more rainbow sprinkles than ice-cream in the bowl, and cuddle up with several stuffed "friends" each night ;)
Day 2
"What is the stupidest thing you did this year? What about in your
whole life?"
I am my own worst enemy. Sometimes I restrict myself so much by not realizing that I am completely capable of standing on my own two feet- just as I have for nearly eight years. By far, my stupidity this year has lied in the fact that I did not believe in myself as much as I should. As many times as I have proven the strength that I have, and succeeded and accomplished so much, I still doubt myself and cower under pressure. I succumb to feeling like I need others to support me and give me motivation. I was lucky to be given natural talents and the ability to acquire new ones, like anyone, and wasting them on self-doubt is useless.
There are a few events popping in and out of my head during my lifetime that were certainly very stupid. Some of them are from my childhood when I could claim I didn't know any better. Others were quick things I said without thinking. Some were ways I acted or treated people of a period of time that looking back on, was pretty idiotic. To name just one seems pointless, because undoubtedly I have learned a great deal from my stupidity. I've calmed down my quick tongue, I've learned to treat everyone nicer (because you never know the battles others face), and think before I act.
I am my own worst enemy. Sometimes I restrict myself so much by not realizing that I am completely capable of standing on my own two feet- just as I have for nearly eight years. By far, my stupidity this year has lied in the fact that I did not believe in myself as much as I should. As many times as I have proven the strength that I have, and succeeded and accomplished so much, I still doubt myself and cower under pressure. I succumb to feeling like I need others to support me and give me motivation. I was lucky to be given natural talents and the ability to acquire new ones, like anyone, and wasting them on self-doubt is useless.
There are a few events popping in and out of my head during my lifetime that were certainly very stupid. Some of them are from my childhood when I could claim I didn't know any better. Others were quick things I said without thinking. Some were ways I acted or treated people of a period of time that looking back on, was pretty idiotic. To name just one seems pointless, because undoubtedly I have learned a great deal from my stupidity. I've calmed down my quick tongue, I've learned to treat everyone nicer (because you never know the battles others face), and think before I act.
Day 1
"If the you of today could go back in time and give advice to any
of the previous yous, which age would you visit and what would you tell
them?"
Dear 17-year-old self,
I know it seems very much like your entire world has collapsed around you. Your throat is tight every time your best friends talk about the amazing schools they're going to. It's hard to sleep at night thinking about the uncertainty of the next four years. The fake happiness you have for your friends is quickly fading as summer begins.
Your first year at Lebanon Valley College will be rough. There will be lonely nights, a guy will mistreat your heart, you will mistake superficial friendships for genuine ones. But I'm here to tell you that it will give you the strength to realize you can truly do anything you chose. The following three years will be the best of your life.
Things will work out, your hard work will pay off, you will meet the girlfriends you've always dreamed of having, you'll go to bars, meet nice guys, and have everything you always dreamed college would be and more. You will have your once-in-a-lifetime study abroad experience in Spain that will make you the woman you are today (as your 24-year-old self).
My advice is never ever to give up when things don't work out. By now after 17 years you've realized that the paths you chose rarely work out (and this will remain a trend unfortunately) the way you picture in your mind. However, everything will work out in the end.
Love,
your 24-year-old self
Dear 17-year-old self,
I know it seems very much like your entire world has collapsed around you. Your throat is tight every time your best friends talk about the amazing schools they're going to. It's hard to sleep at night thinking about the uncertainty of the next four years. The fake happiness you have for your friends is quickly fading as summer begins.
Your first year at Lebanon Valley College will be rough. There will be lonely nights, a guy will mistreat your heart, you will mistake superficial friendships for genuine ones. But I'm here to tell you that it will give you the strength to realize you can truly do anything you chose. The following three years will be the best of your life.
Things will work out, your hard work will pay off, you will meet the girlfriends you've always dreamed of having, you'll go to bars, meet nice guys, and have everything you always dreamed college would be and more. You will have your once-in-a-lifetime study abroad experience in Spain that will make you the woman you are today (as your 24-year-old self).
My advice is never ever to give up when things don't work out. By now after 17 years you've realized that the paths you chose rarely work out (and this will remain a trend unfortunately) the way you picture in your mind. However, everything will work out in the end.
Love,
your 24-year-old self
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