Well, my vacation was a success. I was about at my breaking point the day before my vacation and just kept talking to myself that I was leaving the next day. When I got on the plane, I felt such a sense of relief. Relief that I could just be myself without having to worry about work, bills, drama, etc. I had one of the most relaxing vacations I can remember. I didn't do anything spectacular or even what some people would consider fun, but I can tell that when I got back, I feel more like myself again. People at the office yesterday were even commenting that I seemed different. I'm not feeling tired like I had been and I finally don't feel sick. I'm hoping that my next vacation isn't as far away :)
I also want to wish everyone a belated Happy Thanksgiving. I was laying outside watching football for most of the day--enjoying the weather and being around family! I hope you all were able to enjoy the Holiday as well!
Thursday, December 03, 2009
Monday, November 23, 2009
Vacation
I don't know that I've ever said what I do in detail...however, lets suffice it to say that it's stressful. Along with that stress comes getting sick more often, feeling tired a lot of the time, and just not being with it all the time. Because of this, the agency I work for, gives 4 weeks of vacation when you start. I really appreciate this vacation time. We also have a "use it or lose it" policy for vacation. I was disappointed about this at first, but after working there almost 2 years, I get it. I need 4 weeks of vacation to stay sane (and at times, come back from being insane). So I leave tomorrow...I'm headed on vacation for a week.
I need it. I know people say they "need" vacation and to get away....I honestly do. These past few months have been trying...not just because of work but also because of thinking a lot about my life path (as talked about in previous posts) and just not feeling myself lately. This is the longest vacation I've taken in a while. I've done long weekend, but haven't done a week since I graduated grad school.
So I'm hoping to come back with less stress..I realize that some of the things I've been stressed about will be here when I get back, I'm just hoping to come back with a different stress level to be able to look at the situations in a different way and not "feel" them so hard. So have a great Thanksgiving everyone and enjoy your family and friends if you are spending it with them!
I need it. I know people say they "need" vacation and to get away....I honestly do. These past few months have been trying...not just because of work but also because of thinking a lot about my life path (as talked about in previous posts) and just not feeling myself lately. This is the longest vacation I've taken in a while. I've done long weekend, but haven't done a week since I graduated grad school.
So I'm hoping to come back with less stress..I realize that some of the things I've been stressed about will be here when I get back, I'm just hoping to come back with a different stress level to be able to look at the situations in a different way and not "feel" them so hard. So have a great Thanksgiving everyone and enjoy your family and friends if you are spending it with them!
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Disclaimer: I feel like complaining!
I often don't complain about this because overall, I'm content, but lately I'm getting sick of this...being single. Seriously...what happened to all the good guys? Yes, I know, I know, they are either married or gay is the saying I always hear. But honestly. I'm 27 years old. I really am overall content with where my life is and what I've achieved in my life, but there are days like today where I wish I had someone. I wish I had that person to just lay on the couch and enjoy a day of football. I wish I had that person that I could just say "hey want to go get some dinner" and head off. I wish I had that person that after a really rough day at work, I could go home knowing his arms were there for a hug and a "everything is going to be okay."
I went to dinner a couple weeks ago with a friend I've known for quite some time (over 5 years). We were discussing being single and the frustrations of most of our friends being married and some having children. I'm sick of getting wedding invitations that say "Amy and guest." I don't do the bar thing, I don't do the clubbing thing.
I remind myself that I am a strong, independent person who has accomplished a lot on her own. Is that the problem? I am not ashamed of being independent or being a huge sports fan or being able to live by myself, but there are days....like today....where I just wish I had that someone. I don't think I'm asking for much either. I just want someone who is sure of himself, has a sense of humor, is honest, and can handle some sarcasm. Okay, so there's more than that, but I don't think I should have to lower my standards to find that someone. I'm also not someone who thinks there is that one perfect person for me...I believe there are potentially lots of them, but I apparently just am nowhere close to finding of them.
Anyway, so today I complain. Tomorrow I know I will wake up and move along like I always do. And as much as people will comment on how strong am I or how independent I am, I know that there are times when I come home and wish I didn't have to be.
I did put a disclaimer before reading this, but I feel better. I complained. I'm not perfect.
I went to dinner a couple weeks ago with a friend I've known for quite some time (over 5 years). We were discussing being single and the frustrations of most of our friends being married and some having children. I'm sick of getting wedding invitations that say "Amy and guest." I don't do the bar thing, I don't do the clubbing thing.
I remind myself that I am a strong, independent person who has accomplished a lot on her own. Is that the problem? I am not ashamed of being independent or being a huge sports fan or being able to live by myself, but there are days....like today....where I just wish I had that someone. I don't think I'm asking for much either. I just want someone who is sure of himself, has a sense of humor, is honest, and can handle some sarcasm. Okay, so there's more than that, but I don't think I should have to lower my standards to find that someone. I'm also not someone who thinks there is that one perfect person for me...I believe there are potentially lots of them, but I apparently just am nowhere close to finding of them.
Anyway, so today I complain. Tomorrow I know I will wake up and move along like I always do. And as much as people will comment on how strong am I or how independent I am, I know that there are times when I come home and wish I didn't have to be.
I did put a disclaimer before reading this, but I feel better. I complained. I'm not perfect.
Friday, October 09, 2009
Stress
Stress is both a positive and a negative. Without any stress, many people can lack motivation to accomplish things. Too much stress and it can cause a variety of things. Just the right amount and most people function normally. Well, lately I've been on the too much stress end. I've felt just really run down, tired, and all around out of it. I spent all of last weekend on the couch getting up for whatever I absolutely needed.
My job is stressful. I don't think many people would disagree with that. The difficult part is that the stress never goes away, it all depends on how it's managed. Well, there are times when my ability to manage the stress leaves due to the overwhelming amount of work I have. So, I'm working on that.
So that's why I've been MIA lately (read: like the last 6 months!) So I'm hoping I'm on the path to figuring this all out and being more social again :)
How's everyone else feeling lately?
My job is stressful. I don't think many people would disagree with that. The difficult part is that the stress never goes away, it all depends on how it's managed. Well, there are times when my ability to manage the stress leaves due to the overwhelming amount of work I have. So, I'm working on that.
So that's why I've been MIA lately (read: like the last 6 months!) So I'm hoping I'm on the path to figuring this all out and being more social again :)
How's everyone else feeling lately?
Friday, September 11, 2009
Eight years ago....
Eight years ago today, our world changed. We could not have ever imagined something like that happening or seeing it happen. I was sleeping as I had to commute to classes later in the day. My dad had come in my bedroom and woke me up. (For those of you that know me, I am not a pleasant person when I am woken up!) My dad then explained that a plane had hit one of the twin towers. I remember saying something about that being awful and what bad luck. I got out of bed and in front of the TV in time to see the second plane hit. I remember thinking "that's not luck." After watching some more, the towers crumbled. That was a sight that I will never forget nor did I ever think I would see it in my lifetime. There were many lives lost that day and in the next days to come. Not only at Ground Zero, but the Pentagon and the field. As I sit here today, I was thinking about how hectic my day was and all the things I needed to accomplish. Then I stopped. I personally did not lose anyone nine years ago today, but I will never forget the feelings I had that day.
I've always heard people about talk about remembering where they were when JFK was shot. I will always remember where I was on September 11, 2001. "Thank you" will never truly show how much the people who helped are appreciated and "I'm sorry" will never bring people's loved ones back, but hopefully knowing that people like me, will never forget, is a start.
I've always heard people about talk about remembering where they were when JFK was shot. I will always remember where I was on September 11, 2001. "Thank you" will never truly show how much the people who helped are appreciated and "I'm sorry" will never bring people's loved ones back, but hopefully knowing that people like me, will never forget, is a start.
Tuesday, August 04, 2009
Use your words
This past weekend, I realized just how much I have accomplished and the person I have become. I had the wonderful opportunity to be able to visit with four college friends that I don't see often. Two of them are married (to each other) and have a 5 1/2 week old son that I got to meet. I have another friend who is a teacher and just bought her first house. And the other friend...well, we still wonder how he manages to make it through the day :)
On Saturday, me and two my friends went to campus to visit where we had met. We walked on a trail that follows along a river. There is a large rock that I spent plenty of time sitting on during college. We went back there and sat and talked and listen to the water. We talked about how long we've known each other and where we were in our lives when we met--and now where we are today. We've all graduated and moved, I had a failed engagement and living on my own for the first time, one friend told everyone he is gay, and one has moved to Arizona and back all in the short amount of time we've known each other. As we sat talking, I realized that this is what friendship is. It's being comfortable with how we are that even though we hadn't seen each other in almost a year, that we fell into conversation and being able to share with each other. I had such a great weekend that I did not want to go home. It was one of those weekends that you wish could last longer.
It's nice to have reminders every now and then about what has been accomplished and makes you smile and wonder just what will happen in the future...
On Saturday, me and two my friends went to campus to visit where we had met. We walked on a trail that follows along a river. There is a large rock that I spent plenty of time sitting on during college. We went back there and sat and talked and listen to the water. We talked about how long we've known each other and where we were in our lives when we met--and now where we are today. We've all graduated and moved, I had a failed engagement and living on my own for the first time, one friend told everyone he is gay, and one has moved to Arizona and back all in the short amount of time we've known each other. As we sat talking, I realized that this is what friendship is. It's being comfortable with how we are that even though we hadn't seen each other in almost a year, that we fell into conversation and being able to share with each other. I had such a great weekend that I did not want to go home. It was one of those weekends that you wish could last longer.
It's nice to have reminders every now and then about what has been accomplished and makes you smile and wonder just what will happen in the future...
Saturday, July 11, 2009
His right or disrespect?
I'm curious what you all think about the following article....
Dispute over flag protest erupts in Wisc. village
An American flag flown upside down as a protest in a northern Wisconsin village was seized by police before a Fourth of July parade and the businessman who flew it — an Iraq war veteran — claims the officers trespassed and stole his property.
A day after the parade, police returned the flag and the man's protest — over a liquor license — continued.
The American Civil Liberties Union of Wisconsin is considering legal action against the village of Crivitz for violating Vito Congine Jr.'s' First Amendment rights, Executive Director Chris Ahmuty said.
"It is not often that you see something this blatant," Ahmuty said.
In mid-June, Congine, 46, began flying the flag upside down — an accepted way to signal distress — outside the restaurant he wants to open in Crivitz, a village of about 1,000 people some 65 miles north of Green Bay.
He said his distress is likely bankruptcy because the village board refused to grant him a liquor license after he spent nearly $200,000 to buy and remodel a downtown building for an Italian supper club.
Congine's upside-down-flag represents distress to him; to others in town, it represents disrespect of the flag.
Hours before a Fourth of July parade, four police officers went to Congine's property and removed the flag under the advice of Marinette County District Attorney Allen Brey.
Neighbor Steven Klein watched in disbelief.
"I said, 'What are you doing?' Klein said. "They said, 'It is none of your business.'"
The next day, police returned the flag.
Brey declined comment Friday.
Marinette County Sheriff Jim Kanikula said it was not illegal to fly the flag upside down but people were upset and it was the Fourth of July.
"It is illegal to cause a disruption," he said.
The parade went on without any problems, Kanikula said.
Village President John Deschane, 60, an Army veteran who served in Vietnam, said many people in town believe it's disrespectful to fly the flag upside down.
"If he wants to protest, let him protest but find a different way to do it," Deschane said.
Congine, a Marine veteran who served in Iraq in 2004, said he intends to keep flying the flag upside down.
"It is pretty bad when I go and fight a tyrannical government somewhere else," Congine said, "and then I come home to find it right here at my front door."
I'll post what I think after you guys discuss amongst yourselves :)
Dispute over flag protest erupts in Wisc. village
An American flag flown upside down as a protest in a northern Wisconsin village was seized by police before a Fourth of July parade and the businessman who flew it — an Iraq war veteran — claims the officers trespassed and stole his property.
A day after the parade, police returned the flag and the man's protest — over a liquor license — continued.
The American Civil Liberties Union of Wisconsin is considering legal action against the village of Crivitz for violating Vito Congine Jr.'s' First Amendment rights, Executive Director Chris Ahmuty said.
"It is not often that you see something this blatant," Ahmuty said.
In mid-June, Congine, 46, began flying the flag upside down — an accepted way to signal distress — outside the restaurant he wants to open in Crivitz, a village of about 1,000 people some 65 miles north of Green Bay.
He said his distress is likely bankruptcy because the village board refused to grant him a liquor license after he spent nearly $200,000 to buy and remodel a downtown building for an Italian supper club.
Congine's upside-down-flag represents distress to him; to others in town, it represents disrespect of the flag.
Hours before a Fourth of July parade, four police officers went to Congine's property and removed the flag under the advice of Marinette County District Attorney Allen Brey.
Neighbor Steven Klein watched in disbelief.
"I said, 'What are you doing?' Klein said. "They said, 'It is none of your business.'"
The next day, police returned the flag.
Brey declined comment Friday.
Marinette County Sheriff Jim Kanikula said it was not illegal to fly the flag upside down but people were upset and it was the Fourth of July.
"It is illegal to cause a disruption," he said.
The parade went on without any problems, Kanikula said.
Village President John Deschane, 60, an Army veteran who served in Vietnam, said many people in town believe it's disrespectful to fly the flag upside down.
"If he wants to protest, let him protest but find a different way to do it," Deschane said.
Congine, a Marine veteran who served in Iraq in 2004, said he intends to keep flying the flag upside down.
"It is pretty bad when I go and fight a tyrannical government somewhere else," Congine said, "and then I come home to find it right here at my front door."
I'll post what I think after you guys discuss amongst yourselves :)
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
When does reality stop being real?
So anyone who knows me knows that I enjoy reality TV. I like American Idol, Bachelor(ette), The Biggest Loser, etc. However, this Jon and Kate thing has me pretty upset. Also most people know that I work in a field with children. My degrees are in Social Work and so I was taught all about children's development. What upsets me about this show is how the children are being raised. I have heard the argument about how they are doing the show in order to have money for their children. Well, guess what, the majority of America (and the world for that matter) have to do something called getting a job and earning for their family. I continue to get upset at Kate's comments about doing what she needs to in order to provide for her family. What is she providing besides money though? I can tell you that money is not the most important thing in raising a family. Those kids need love, consistency, structure and I have a hard time believing those things are being provided like they should.
I'm not going to get into who's to blame and who started what. I will say that I stopped watching Jon and Kate quite a while ago due to not being able to handle how Kate spoke to Jon. I felt she was extremely disrespectful and treated him as a child. At that point, I stopped.
So when is enough enough? When does reality no longer become real and people need to realize that people's lives being ruined is not "entertainment"? I guess I am not sure what the answer is either, but I do know that those children are going to have a challenging life due to being thrust in the spotlight and now having to deal with this very public divorce. I applaud celebrities who are conscious about making sure their children are in the spotlight as little as possible.
So my hope for Jon, Kate, and their eight children is that they realize what reality is without millions of people watching.
I'm not going to get into who's to blame and who started what. I will say that I stopped watching Jon and Kate quite a while ago due to not being able to handle how Kate spoke to Jon. I felt she was extremely disrespectful and treated him as a child. At that point, I stopped.
So when is enough enough? When does reality no longer become real and people need to realize that people's lives being ruined is not "entertainment"? I guess I am not sure what the answer is either, but I do know that those children are going to have a challenging life due to being thrust in the spotlight and now having to deal with this very public divorce. I applaud celebrities who are conscious about making sure their children are in the spotlight as little as possible.
So my hope for Jon, Kate, and their eight children is that they realize what reality is without millions of people watching.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Migraines, naps, and rain
Yesterday it finally felt like summer and you know what I did? I slept...for 4 hours. Why, you ask? Well, because I had a migraine from hell. I seriously have never had a migraine this bad. I woke up yesterday morning and felt dizzy and just not right. I didn't think much of it and continued getting ready to leave for work. I went to my first appointment and felt even worse. When I got home, I knew that it was a dirty migraine. I took a pill and was out. Four hours later I woke up with the reminents of horrible pounding. It was definitely not a pretty day. To top it off, I had to get some errands done and quickly got ready to go out and run to the store. When I got home, I made some quick dinner and relaxed the rest of the night. I had no problem sleeping last night either. Whew. When I woke up this morning, I began feeling human again and so far today have been better. Let's hope it stays away for a looooong time to come.
I've always been a fan of naps but lately it's almost like my body expects naps. Now, I have no problem making sure my body gets what it needs but when I'm supposed to be working, it makes it difficult to nap. So I have to hold off until the weekend and then I'm so busy attempting to cram as much as possible into the weekend that I usually don't have time. Well, I was so tired last weekend from the week and the start of the weekend that I slept 12 hours Saturday night. When I finally work up at 1pm on Sunday, it was the most rested I've felt in a long time. It was well needed and deserved (if I say so myself!)
My only comment about the rain recently is that pretty soon I'm going to need to build an ark. I really feel like it's been raining SO much lately. I mean, I have a garden so I appreciate the growing aspect of the rain, but comon. Enough is enough!!!
I've always been a fan of naps but lately it's almost like my body expects naps. Now, I have no problem making sure my body gets what it needs but when I'm supposed to be working, it makes it difficult to nap. So I have to hold off until the weekend and then I'm so busy attempting to cram as much as possible into the weekend that I usually don't have time. Well, I was so tired last weekend from the week and the start of the weekend that I slept 12 hours Saturday night. When I finally work up at 1pm on Sunday, it was the most rested I've felt in a long time. It was well needed and deserved (if I say so myself!)
My only comment about the rain recently is that pretty soon I'm going to need to build an ark. I really feel like it's been raining SO much lately. I mean, I have a garden so I appreciate the growing aspect of the rain, but comon. Enough is enough!!!
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Did anyone else realize it's June?
I wish that Wisconsin would figure out it's summer and turn the heat on outside! It's been rainy (think: Seattle) and chilly. I'm not a fan of having to bring out my sweaters or jackets when it's June. My mom actually turned the heat on this past weekend because it was in the 50s and the chill wouldn't get out of their house. It was crazy! Now, I do fully realize that it'll be July or August and I'll be complaining about it being so humid and not wanting to even go outside and that my hair now lives in more than 1 zip code due to the humidity, but for now...I'm going to complain about it being cold. Today was a little better in the 60s and I commented that unforunately that seemed really warm due to the fact that the sun hadn't seen Wisconsin in quite a few days.
Overall though, I still can't believe it's June. I remember talking a few months ago about being so excited for summer to start and all the things I have planned and now it's here. Wow.
Well, I've had a pretty draining week so far so I'm headed to bed, but as always, wanted to put my two cents into whatever was bothering me at the moment :)
Overall though, I still can't believe it's June. I remember talking a few months ago about being so excited for summer to start and all the things I have planned and now it's here. Wow.
Well, I've had a pretty draining week so far so I'm headed to bed, but as always, wanted to put my two cents into whatever was bothering me at the moment :)
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Number 300!!!
This is my 300th post. I actually never thought I would ever do something like this and then I started and would post really frequently and now I'm back to being like "oh shoot...have I written anything this month?" I have noticed that this usually coincides with my moods. I do enjoy looking back at old posts and thinking about where I was and what I was going through. So thank you for reading and if you've read all 300, way to go :)
I am not one to preach about religion or political views on here. My family and friends know my beliefs and how I view the world, but for the most part, I keep that out of my blog. Well, today I have a complaint. And my blogging friends, it's one that I feel strong enough that I am going to write about here. I was brought up to treat people as equals and not to judge people. I think most people would say that was also how they were brought up. That is where I struggle. I see so much hate and judgement in this world, that I find it hard to believe when people say this to me. I actually had someone say to me today "Well, I think everyone should be treated equal except gay people should not be able to get married." Umm...explain to me how that is treating everyone equal then? And how is that not judging someone and their lifestyle?
I will not "call out" a specific religion, but I was raised in a certain religion that I no longer participate in. This is due to what I felt was significant hypocrisy that I can not stand with. I'm not sure how a religion can say that everyone should be forgiven and treated equally except...when they don't agree with what is happening. It really is maddening for me. I have a hard time looking at the world I live in and see this.
I believe in equality for all humans...we are all humans and we deserve to all have the same rights. I think that everyone, if we chose to, could look at each person and find something in their life that we did not agree with. Does this mean that they don't have the same rights or don't deserve the same opportunities?
Okay, I am breathing better now. I think I have such a hard time with this also due to my job. If people don't know, I am a therapist who works with children who are in out-of-home care (don't live with their biological parents). I work with these kids to believe that they can achieve things in their life, but feel like this is lying to some children.
So, for the first time in 300 posts, I am putting this out there. Please just think about this. You can agree or disagree with me. That is completely your choice. And I won't judge you for that.
I am not one to preach about religion or political views on here. My family and friends know my beliefs and how I view the world, but for the most part, I keep that out of my blog. Well, today I have a complaint. And my blogging friends, it's one that I feel strong enough that I am going to write about here. I was brought up to treat people as equals and not to judge people. I think most people would say that was also how they were brought up. That is where I struggle. I see so much hate and judgement in this world, that I find it hard to believe when people say this to me. I actually had someone say to me today "Well, I think everyone should be treated equal except gay people should not be able to get married." Umm...explain to me how that is treating everyone equal then? And how is that not judging someone and their lifestyle?
I will not "call out" a specific religion, but I was raised in a certain religion that I no longer participate in. This is due to what I felt was significant hypocrisy that I can not stand with. I'm not sure how a religion can say that everyone should be forgiven and treated equally except...when they don't agree with what is happening. It really is maddening for me. I have a hard time looking at the world I live in and see this.
I believe in equality for all humans...we are all humans and we deserve to all have the same rights. I think that everyone, if we chose to, could look at each person and find something in their life that we did not agree with. Does this mean that they don't have the same rights or don't deserve the same opportunities?
Okay, I am breathing better now. I think I have such a hard time with this also due to my job. If people don't know, I am a therapist who works with children who are in out-of-home care (don't live with their biological parents). I work with these kids to believe that they can achieve things in their life, but feel like this is lying to some children.
So, for the first time in 300 posts, I am putting this out there. Please just think about this. You can agree or disagree with me. That is completely your choice. And I won't judge you for that.
Friday, May 08, 2009
Every day is a winding road....
Ever have one of those days where you have the entire day planned out and yet nothing goes the way it was planned? I had one of those this week and although my day was hectic...I was just annoyed all day. I am not a person who needs to have a schedule, or even enjoys having a schedule most of the time, but when I have a busy day at work, I like it go as planned. That was not how the day went. Appointments were changed around, kids were sick, people were late. Ugh, by the end of the day, I was surprised I don't drink more!
In other news, I'll be spending time with my mom (and dad) this weekend to celebrate Mother's Day. I already took my mom to see RiverDance so she already received her Mother's Day present! We are going to be planting a garden this weekend which I am very excited about. Let's see what we can grow this year. I am not the world's best green thumb, but it's nice to try!
Hopefully wherever you are, you enjoy the weekend and hopefully the weather is nice. If you are a mom, Happy Mother's Day!
In other news, I'll be spending time with my mom (and dad) this weekend to celebrate Mother's Day. I already took my mom to see RiverDance so she already received her Mother's Day present! We are going to be planting a garden this weekend which I am very excited about. Let's see what we can grow this year. I am not the world's best green thumb, but it's nice to try!
Hopefully wherever you are, you enjoy the weekend and hopefully the weather is nice. If you are a mom, Happy Mother's Day!
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Life (really does just) Happen(s)
Celebrating birthdays haven't been the most fun lately. The realization of getting older and life not turning out the way I had planned it makes birthdays not as much fun. This birthday was different. I think I've finally realized that life really does just happen. I received a small note from someone on my birthday that I've gone from 10 to 27 so quickly. I stopped to think of everything I've done in those 17 years. Although life hasn't turned out the way I thought, I have accomplished a lot in my 27 years and it's almost fun to look ahead and think of everything else that I can still accomplish. I still have goals and dreams and I still have a lot of this world to see yet.
I have friends and family who stand beside me through it all. I can be quite a pain at times, and they are still there. It speaks volumes to the types of people I surround myself with. In my 27 years, I have realized who my true friends and realized how important it is to surround yourself with those people and not the people who bring you down. I have also learned what is important in life. It's not about what you have, but who you are sharing it with. I love the laughter of a child and the smile on my parent's face when I've managed to surprise them. I also love the quiet of being by myself, but then hearing the ringer of my best friend calling to say hi.
Overall, I am content. Nope, things differently haven't gone the way I had planned them, but then, who has a life that hasn't thrown curve balls? That's part of life and I am embracing those curve balls...they have gotten me where I am today. And I would say that today isn't too bad.
I have friends and family who stand beside me through it all. I can be quite a pain at times, and they are still there. It speaks volumes to the types of people I surround myself with. In my 27 years, I have realized who my true friends and realized how important it is to surround yourself with those people and not the people who bring you down. I have also learned what is important in life. It's not about what you have, but who you are sharing it with. I love the laughter of a child and the smile on my parent's face when I've managed to surprise them. I also love the quiet of being by myself, but then hearing the ringer of my best friend calling to say hi.
Overall, I am content. Nope, things differently haven't gone the way I had planned them, but then, who has a life that hasn't thrown curve balls? That's part of life and I am embracing those curve balls...they have gotten me where I am today. And I would say that today isn't too bad.
Friday, April 17, 2009
I can rock with the best of them!
I love Guitar Hero. I will admit it. I played it once and I was hooked. A friend of mine had gotten it and convinced me to play with him. That was all it took. After getting done playing with him, I went out and bought it. It has become an obsession. I have no qualms about spending two hours playing Guitar Hero and hoping I don't get booed off instead of doing laundry or putting away my dishes. I love everything from picking the band name, to making my rocker chick, to playing. It's just fun.
With next Tuesday being my birthday, we're doing a semi-celebration at my parent's house tomorrow. I'm excited because I brought my Guitar Hero up and am hoping to play! I'm going to see if I can even get my mom and/or dad to play. It should be a blast!
I was very excited today when I went to the grocery store to see watermelon!!!! I know it's getting nice out when I see that. It's going to be 70 here today and it couldn't have come at a better time. The cold weather was getting my spirits done. I need warmth. I don't like the humidity but I just like feeling warm without having 22 layers and 16 blankets on! :)
Well, I hope everyone has a great weekend--I am sure I will!!!
With next Tuesday being my birthday, we're doing a semi-celebration at my parent's house tomorrow. I'm excited because I brought my Guitar Hero up and am hoping to play! I'm going to see if I can even get my mom and/or dad to play. It should be a blast!
I was very excited today when I went to the grocery store to see watermelon!!!! I know it's getting nice out when I see that. It's going to be 70 here today and it couldn't have come at a better time. The cold weather was getting my spirits done. I need warmth. I don't like the humidity but I just like feeling warm without having 22 layers and 16 blankets on! :)
Well, I hope everyone has a great weekend--I am sure I will!!!
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Easter weekend
I'm not a religious person. I went to Catholic school from middle school through high school. When I went to college, I "experimented" with different religions, but just never felt comfortable or like I fit anywhere. After college, I attended a few different churches, but again never felt right. So as of today, I don't attend church and I feel a lot more at peace then when I did. I never fit in at Catholic churches and also left feeling guilty or as if I would never be able to achieve what the church talked about. That's not a great feeling when you're leaving church. There are also many things I don't agree with within the Catholic religion, but I won't get into those.
Anyway, as it is Easter tomorrow, I am happy. Not because I went to church and prayed, but because this weekend I have been surrounded by family and friends. That is what I believe in. I believe in being happy and surrounding yourself with people who love you. I have a lot of questions about "religion" but I do think I am spiritual. I believe in being a good person and loving with all I have. Not that I get those right every day, but it is still what I strive to accomplish on a daily basis.
So Happy Easter everyone! Whatever you believe in or however you celebrate, I hope it's a great day. Take some time to relax!
Anyway, as it is Easter tomorrow, I am happy. Not because I went to church and prayed, but because this weekend I have been surrounded by family and friends. That is what I believe in. I believe in being happy and surrounding yourself with people who love you. I have a lot of questions about "religion" but I do think I am spiritual. I believe in being a good person and loving with all I have. Not that I get those right every day, but it is still what I strive to accomplish on a daily basis.
So Happy Easter everyone! Whatever you believe in or however you celebrate, I hope it's a great day. Take some time to relax!
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Vacation
I am often amazed at people who don't take vacations. Oftentimes, I will get so wrapped up in life and work that I no longer feel like myself. It's at those points that I know I just need a break and some time for me. Those are times when I know I need a vacation. A vacation to me is getting away. Since I have a home office, it's often difficult to stay at home because work is always around me. So last Thursday, I took off for Arizona. I spent 6 wonderful days (two days for traveling) in Tucson and absoultely loved it. It was in the 80s every day, and on Monday, I layed in the sun for 4 hours. I can't tell you what that did for me. As I was flying back today, I thought about the time I had for myself, how much I did not think about work, and how relaxed I felt.
I will be the first to admit that I don't handle stress well. I am also a perfectionist when it comes to my work. I don't like things late, I don't like things done wrong and I want to do it right. That can be very overwhelming in the profession I'm in.
So I sit here writing this fully realizing that I can't go on vacation every month (although how awesome would that be?) so I need to make some changes in my life in order to not get the point I was at before the vacation. I'm not sure what that entails yet.
The one thing that vacation does for me is clear my head. I'm able to relax and clear my head in order to make decisions that I normally would not make clearly due to the stress and inability to think clearly. I did a lot of thinking about things and have come to some conclusions. And the best part is that I'm at peace with what I've decided. I'm happy...let's just hope I can keep it going!
I will be the first to admit that I don't handle stress well. I am also a perfectionist when it comes to my work. I don't like things late, I don't like things done wrong and I want to do it right. That can be very overwhelming in the profession I'm in.
So I sit here writing this fully realizing that I can't go on vacation every month (although how awesome would that be?) so I need to make some changes in my life in order to not get the point I was at before the vacation. I'm not sure what that entails yet.
The one thing that vacation does for me is clear my head. I'm able to relax and clear my head in order to make decisions that I normally would not make clearly due to the stress and inability to think clearly. I did a lot of thinking about things and have come to some conclusions. And the best part is that I'm at peace with what I've decided. I'm happy...let's just hope I can keep it going!
Saturday, March 07, 2009
Another weekend...
Well, this weekend is the first in a while where I am not doing any traveling. I'm sticking close to home and just getting things done. I decided I was sick of my master bathroom (the decor) and went to Kohl's this morning to change that. I am pretty happy with what I picked out and plan to change that over this afternoon. I've also been able to make some muffins, get 2 loads of laundry done, clean the kitchen and hang up my clothes. I'm also watching some NCAA basketball as well. It's been a productive day but it feels good.
I do need to do some work this weekend as well. I hate working on the weekend when I'm not getting paid, but sometimes life happens and I just can't get everything done during the week. Oh well, it's not the end of the world.
Last night I ran some errands and when I got home I watched the movie "Why Did I Get Married?" I have to say...I was pleasantly surprised. I think Tyler Perry is funny, but I really enjoyed this movie. It wasn't his usual humor, but there were plenty of surprises and it just really struck me in some parts. It was intense, but also light-hearted. It is a movie that I would watch again. Janet Jackson was in it too and actually did well. I do want to see Tyler's new Madea movie too. There is something about Madea that just cracks me up.
Other than that, not much new. I leave for Tucson early next month and can't wait. Then I have my birthday shortly after I return. I'm excited for a fun-filled month :)
I do need to do some work this weekend as well. I hate working on the weekend when I'm not getting paid, but sometimes life happens and I just can't get everything done during the week. Oh well, it's not the end of the world.
Last night I ran some errands and when I got home I watched the movie "Why Did I Get Married?" I have to say...I was pleasantly surprised. I think Tyler Perry is funny, but I really enjoyed this movie. It wasn't his usual humor, but there were plenty of surprises and it just really struck me in some parts. It was intense, but also light-hearted. It is a movie that I would watch again. Janet Jackson was in it too and actually did well. I do want to see Tyler's new Madea movie too. There is something about Madea that just cracks me up.
Other than that, not much new. I leave for Tucson early next month and can't wait. Then I have my birthday shortly after I return. I'm excited for a fun-filled month :)
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Free Time
The past few years, I haven't had much free time. I had forgotten what that term even meant actually. But lately, I have been learning to take some time for myself and not planning things. I have to say, it's been good for me. I am taking time to watch movies I never did, read books I had forgotten about, and gotten enough sleep to where I'm not a walking zombie. I don't feel as rushed and I don't feel as stressed. My job in and of itself is stressful, but I just need to remind myself that everyone needs time alone to regroup and think. I have been doing that lately!
I also decided this weekend to treat myself. I am taking a trip in April to Tucson with one of my friends! I went to Phoenix last year and really enjoyed the weather and the area so I am excited to go back. I am going in early April and can't wait. It's so nice to have things coming up to look forward to! I'll be there from a Thursday until Tuesday. I also have a Great Aunt and Uncle who live near Phoenix (that's who I went to see last year) who I am going to contact and see if I can go up and visit them for a day. So it should be a great time. It should be relaxing. My friend actually rented a house for the week (she's there for 8 days) that has an outdoor grill and an in-ground pool so it should be fun :) I'll be doing a lot of lounging I have a feeling!
So, I am going to go back to relaxing with a new book and doing a lot of nothing...ahhh that's a great feeling!
I also decided this weekend to treat myself. I am taking a trip in April to Tucson with one of my friends! I went to Phoenix last year and really enjoyed the weather and the area so I am excited to go back. I am going in early April and can't wait. It's so nice to have things coming up to look forward to! I'll be there from a Thursday until Tuesday. I also have a Great Aunt and Uncle who live near Phoenix (that's who I went to see last year) who I am going to contact and see if I can go up and visit them for a day. So it should be a great time. It should be relaxing. My friend actually rented a house for the week (she's there for 8 days) that has an outdoor grill and an in-ground pool so it should be fun :) I'll be doing a lot of lounging I have a feeling!
So, I am going to go back to relaxing with a new book and doing a lot of nothing...ahhh that's a great feeling!
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
25 Things You Never Wanted To Know :)
I did this on facebook and decided I would share it on here as well. If you want to play along, go ahead. Let me know that you did it :)
RULES: Once you've been tagged, you are supposed to write a note with 25 random things, facts, habits, or goals about you. At the end, paste these instructions in the body of the note, type your 25 random things, tag 25 people.
1. I'm an only child and I always wanted siblings. As I've gotten older I have wanted siblings for different reasons. I will never marry an only child because I want to make sure my children have aunts, uncles, and cousins to grow up with.
2. I never learned to play a musical instrument. I had a keyboard when I was younger and taught myself to play some Alladin songs, but never took lessons.
3. I love to sing--as long as people don't hear me! I sing loud in the shower, car, around the apartment.
4. I think everyone should live by themselves! I have learned so much about myself and that I can do much more then I ever imagined!
5. I wanted to be a teacher when I was younger. I then decided that I didn't want to be with those kids all day long so hence, what I do now.
6. I love to text message. I talk almost all day for my job and by the end of the day, I'm sick of talking. Texting is a great way to get a hold of me.
7. I'm addicted to The Bachelor.
8. I talk to my mom pretty much every day. Even if it's just to check in for a minute, it's weird when I don't.
9. I'm done with school. I have no desire to get my PhD.
10. I love pasta. I could eat a different type of pasta every day.
11. I don't like milk. I used to drink it when I was younger, but now can't handle it. I do like chocolate milk though.
12. I've gotten less picky with my eating as I've gotten older.
13. The friend I've had the longest is Katie. I've known her since she was 9 months old and we still stay in touch!
14. I've lived in 5 different cities in Wisconsin so far. I have no idea where I will end up--and I'm okay with that!
15. I've had over 12 kidney stones (I lost count!) I haven't had one in over 2 years though so hopefully I won't again!
16. I love skydiving. I've done it twice and really want to go again.
17. I love to travel. The places that I really want to go are Italy, Hawaii and Australia. I also really want to go to more National Parks.
18. I had a hard time turning 26 and would not allow anything for my birthday to have the number on it. Now that I'm about to turn 27, I don't care. Yeah, I'm strange.
19. I hate feet. I will do pedicures though. But otherwise I don't want to touch feet or anyone else touching mine.
20. The American President is my favorite movie.
21. I love sports especially Duke basketball and Brewers baseball.
22. I used to bite my fingernails until a couple years ago.
23. I hate cleaning. It's like torture.
24. I love having candles burning. The smell of candles in my apartment is so nice to me!
25. I'm glad I'm done with this because this was a lot harder then I thought it would be.
RULES: Once you've been tagged, you are supposed to write a note with 25 random things, facts, habits, or goals about you. At the end, paste these instructions in the body of the note, type your 25 random things, tag 25 people.
1. I'm an only child and I always wanted siblings. As I've gotten older I have wanted siblings for different reasons. I will never marry an only child because I want to make sure my children have aunts, uncles, and cousins to grow up with.
2. I never learned to play a musical instrument. I had a keyboard when I was younger and taught myself to play some Alladin songs, but never took lessons.
3. I love to sing--as long as people don't hear me! I sing loud in the shower, car, around the apartment.
4. I think everyone should live by themselves! I have learned so much about myself and that I can do much more then I ever imagined!
5. I wanted to be a teacher when I was younger. I then decided that I didn't want to be with those kids all day long so hence, what I do now.
6. I love to text message. I talk almost all day for my job and by the end of the day, I'm sick of talking. Texting is a great way to get a hold of me.
7. I'm addicted to The Bachelor.
8. I talk to my mom pretty much every day. Even if it's just to check in for a minute, it's weird when I don't.
9. I'm done with school. I have no desire to get my PhD.
10. I love pasta. I could eat a different type of pasta every day.
11. I don't like milk. I used to drink it when I was younger, but now can't handle it. I do like chocolate milk though.
12. I've gotten less picky with my eating as I've gotten older.
13. The friend I've had the longest is Katie. I've known her since she was 9 months old and we still stay in touch!
14. I've lived in 5 different cities in Wisconsin so far. I have no idea where I will end up--and I'm okay with that!
15. I've had over 12 kidney stones (I lost count!) I haven't had one in over 2 years though so hopefully I won't again!
16. I love skydiving. I've done it twice and really want to go again.
17. I love to travel. The places that I really want to go are Italy, Hawaii and Australia. I also really want to go to more National Parks.
18. I had a hard time turning 26 and would not allow anything for my birthday to have the number on it. Now that I'm about to turn 27, I don't care. Yeah, I'm strange.
19. I hate feet. I will do pedicures though. But otherwise I don't want to touch feet or anyone else touching mine.
20. The American President is my favorite movie.
21. I love sports especially Duke basketball and Brewers baseball.
22. I used to bite my fingernails until a couple years ago.
23. I hate cleaning. It's like torture.
24. I love having candles burning. The smell of candles in my apartment is so nice to me!
25. I'm glad I'm done with this because this was a lot harder then I thought it would be.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Change We Can Believe In
No matter your political affiliation, today is a new day for America. As I sit here watching the inauguration of the 44th President of the United States, I am proud. When I was born, I am sure my parents never thought they would see an African American President while they were alive, let alone a woman running who got so close and a woman running for Vice President.
I am proud. I am proud of America for not looking at color, but looking at the content of character. For not only electing a man who has high dreams and hopes for our country, but for believing that change was needed.
His speech was moving, heartfelt, and truthful. I will not deny that he has a lot to live up to with his speeches and promises to the country. And I will not deny that the road will be long and difficult, but I have faith that President Obama and his team can do it.
This is the first inauguration I have ever cared to watch. From the crowds lined up at the National Mall well before the day's activities began, to the millions watching it live, today is a new day.
I am proud. I am proud of America for not looking at color, but looking at the content of character. For not only electing a man who has high dreams and hopes for our country, but for believing that change was needed.
His speech was moving, heartfelt, and truthful. I will not deny that he has a lot to live up to with his speeches and promises to the country. And I will not deny that the road will be long and difficult, but I have faith that President Obama and his team can do it.
This is the first inauguration I have ever cared to watch. From the crowds lined up at the National Mall well before the day's activities began, to the millions watching it live, today is a new day.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Another year...
Where did 2008 go? I feel like it was just 2008 and I was saying how fast a year had gone by. I feel that way again. Wow. 2009.
Well, here is my letter to 2009:
Dear 2009,
When 2008 came around, I had learned a lot in the previous year. Well, I can say the same for 2008. During 2007, I learned to live alone, and during 2008, I learned to take time to grieve for things that I had buried myself in work and school during 2007. The year 2008 came with a move to a new apartment and a new job. I made sure this year to take time to get to know myself better and I became more comfortable with who I am. I'm definitely not perfect, I have quirks, and bad habits, but I am me. I took the time to think about where life has brought me and all that I have to be thankful for. I also took the time to grieve and be sad about things that I thought would be different at this point in my life. I had hoped to be married and perhaps becoming a mom soon. Obviously those ideas took a very different turn, and although, now I am okay with this, this took time for me to be okay with. 2008 was a difficult birthday for me. I wanted nothing that had my age on it this year. I am now at peace with my age knowing that age is only a number and does not discriminate against what I can still achieve. 2008 brought some sadness in knowing that I had achieved many goals I had set for my life. 2009, you bring me hope that I can set new goals and work towards achieving those. I hope that 2009 brings more travels, more happiness, and more contentment. 2009 started with another move, but not another job. I'm content with where I am in my employment. I do have dreams for what I would ultimately want to do, but I have time. Although it's not a daily thing, I do feel as though I am making a difference with the children I am working with and that helps me know why I work so many hours and stress myself out.
So, 2009, I am ready for you. I am ready for the challenges you bring, the happiness you can provide, and the potential sadness that can occur. I become stronger every year and I no longer fear my birthdays, but realize that with the passing time, I am becoming more and more the person I am meant to become. So...let's go 2009. I'm ready for you!
Well, here is my letter to 2009:
Dear 2009,
When 2008 came around, I had learned a lot in the previous year. Well, I can say the same for 2008. During 2007, I learned to live alone, and during 2008, I learned to take time to grieve for things that I had buried myself in work and school during 2007. The year 2008 came with a move to a new apartment and a new job. I made sure this year to take time to get to know myself better and I became more comfortable with who I am. I'm definitely not perfect, I have quirks, and bad habits, but I am me. I took the time to think about where life has brought me and all that I have to be thankful for. I also took the time to grieve and be sad about things that I thought would be different at this point in my life. I had hoped to be married and perhaps becoming a mom soon. Obviously those ideas took a very different turn, and although, now I am okay with this, this took time for me to be okay with. 2008 was a difficult birthday for me. I wanted nothing that had my age on it this year. I am now at peace with my age knowing that age is only a number and does not discriminate against what I can still achieve. 2008 brought some sadness in knowing that I had achieved many goals I had set for my life. 2009, you bring me hope that I can set new goals and work towards achieving those. I hope that 2009 brings more travels, more happiness, and more contentment. 2009 started with another move, but not another job. I'm content with where I am in my employment. I do have dreams for what I would ultimately want to do, but I have time. Although it's not a daily thing, I do feel as though I am making a difference with the children I am working with and that helps me know why I work so many hours and stress myself out.
So, 2009, I am ready for you. I am ready for the challenges you bring, the happiness you can provide, and the potential sadness that can occur. I become stronger every year and I no longer fear my birthdays, but realize that with the passing time, I am becoming more and more the person I am meant to become. So...let's go 2009. I'm ready for you!
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