Well well...2012 has come and (is almost) gone and it has been a doozy!
I started 2012 with a few overall goals I wanted to achieve and then I got too excited and came up with a few more.
So what did we do this year? Well a bit of everything! And it was A.W.E.S.O.M.E!
1. We traveled a LOT! We went to California, Hawaii, and Orlando this year.
2. We graduated from college!
3. We celebrated our birthdays AND our anniversaries!
4. I lost my job (not good) BUT found a new one which I will start in January!
5. I attempted a change in my diet and mostly enjoyed it.
6. I kept up my love for donating and organizing and started to pay it forward.
7. I read 50 books this year!
8. I worked on some home projects.
9. I worked on getting back into writing.
10. I worked on re-vamping my style, fashion, and closet.
11. I successfully defended my thesis!
12. I made new friends!
13. I have grown up a bit more.
14. I got to spend a lot of time with my family.
15. I have (slowly) become healthier in mind and spirit (although working out took a back seat again and I NEED to get my body healthier).
Though they may seem small, these accomplishments have been awesome and have made 2012 an even better year than I anticipated.
I can't wait to see what 2013 has in store. It's always so much fun seeing the days, weeks, months, years unfold! Just a few more days!
Cheers!
J
Friday, December 28, 2012
Monday, December 17, 2012
The Oil Cleansing Method
Okay so as of late my skin has broken out and dried out SO much. I don't know if it's due to the screwy TN weather this year or just stress (probably both) but I'm HATING it, especially so close to graduation and pictures for the holidays. I haven't changed any of my face products either so I'm really frustrated.
So naturally, I complained about it on the ol' Facebook and a lovely woman suggested I try the oil cleansing method. I remember very vaguely my sister saying something about the oil method a few years ago but this woman reminded me.
Depending upon your skin type (dry, oily, combination), a certain blend of oils will be combined and applied directly to the face. Suggested oils are castor combined with olive, sunflower, or grape seed.
For similar recipes and information, check here, here, and here.
For dry, combine more castor than the other 2:1, for oily, more other than the castor 2:1, and for combination a 1:1 ratio. For my personal ratio I combined 1 part castor oil and 1 part olive oil. I also have some tea tree oil to add a drop or two in for whenever I'm feeling a tad dry. I purchased a small bottle in the travel size section of my local store to try this out for a few weeks. I also purchased small bottles of the oil so in case it doesn't work, I don't have a ton of oil just laying around.
1) Apply approximately a quarter size about of mixed oil to palm of hand. Rub together to make "warm", blended.
2) Apply oil directly to face. That's right...just slather it right on there. If you've got make-up-DO IT! The oil should get it all off.
3) Gently rub oil in pores all over face and neck.
4) Wait about 1 minute.
5) Apply a pretty hot (but not scalding) wash cloth directly to the face (lay it over). Leave on until cool.
6) You can rinse it and reapply a warm cloth again if you're not feeling confident.
7) After it's cool, gently wipe face and neck of all oil.
**PLEASE NOTE: I've read from many different sources and from first hand accounts that your face will go through a phase of getting zitty again. DO NOT FRET! That's your face getting in deep and pulling the impurities from way down up and out of your skin. Just leave them alone, keep up the method, and between 3-7 days they should leave and your skin should be back to its awesome, blissful stage...and STAY there! (at least from what I've heard and read)
I started it on Sunday and tried it out for a week.
Day 1 (Sunday)
Before the "wash": I haven't washed my face today nor have I applied anything to it since yesterday.
After the "wash": My skin feels pretty silky and not dry. It was kind of bizarre just slathering oil all over my face but it came off well and my skin feels hydrated. Nothing else is on my face!
So naturally, I complained about it on the ol' Facebook and a lovely woman suggested I try the oil cleansing method. I remember very vaguely my sister saying something about the oil method a few years ago but this woman reminded me.
-The Oil Cleansing Method-
This method uses natural oils to help balance out the oils in our skin. "Like dissolves like". This is also a more eco-friendly way to take care of your skin and rid of the chemical products we often use to rid of acne, dry skin, grease, etc.Depending upon your skin type (dry, oily, combination), a certain blend of oils will be combined and applied directly to the face. Suggested oils are castor combined with olive, sunflower, or grape seed.
For similar recipes and information, check here, here, and here.
For dry, combine more castor than the other 2:1, for oily, more other than the castor 2:1, and for combination a 1:1 ratio. For my personal ratio I combined 1 part castor oil and 1 part olive oil. I also have some tea tree oil to add a drop or two in for whenever I'm feeling a tad dry. I purchased a small bottle in the travel size section of my local store to try this out for a few weeks. I also purchased small bottles of the oil so in case it doesn't work, I don't have a ton of oil just laying around.
1) Apply approximately a quarter size about of mixed oil to palm of hand. Rub together to make "warm", blended.
2) Apply oil directly to face. That's right...just slather it right on there. If you've got make-up-DO IT! The oil should get it all off.
3) Gently rub oil in pores all over face and neck.
4) Wait about 1 minute.
5) Apply a pretty hot (but not scalding) wash cloth directly to the face (lay it over). Leave on until cool.
6) You can rinse it and reapply a warm cloth again if you're not feeling confident.
7) After it's cool, gently wipe face and neck of all oil.
**PLEASE NOTE: I've read from many different sources and from first hand accounts that your face will go through a phase of getting zitty again. DO NOT FRET! That's your face getting in deep and pulling the impurities from way down up and out of your skin. Just leave them alone, keep up the method, and between 3-7 days they should leave and your skin should be back to its awesome, blissful stage...and STAY there! (at least from what I've heard and read)
I started it on Sunday and tried it out for a week.
Day 1 (Sunday)
Before the "wash": I haven't washed my face today nor have I applied anything to it since yesterday.
(You can see my T-zone is especially zitty lately)
After the "wash": My skin feels pretty silky and not dry. It was kind of bizarre just slathering oil all over my face but it came off well and my skin feels hydrated. Nothing else is on my face!
(I know it doesn't look different (YET!) but it feels different)
Day 2 (Monday)
Before "wash": I hadn't done a thing to my face before washing it besides getting in the shower. It got a little wet but I dried it really well before "washing". I did notice this morning, however, that my t-zone zits had gone down in inflammation. SCORE!
After "wash": It still feels silky smooth and the whole process is kind of relaxing. I can dig it.
Day 3 (Tuesday)
Before "wash": I put on a full face of make-up today and it went on SO well! No flaky parts, no spotty foundation, nothing! (Unfortunately I forgot to take a before picture...maybe next time?)
After "wash": E.V.E.R.Y bit of my make-up came off AND my face still feels amazing!
Day 4 (Wednesday)
Before "wash": I woke up to a tiny amount of dryness on my upper lip and upper eye lids. I also have a few zits in my eyebrow...but the zits from day 1 have gone WAY down in both size and inflammation. I wore makeup again and it went on fine.
After "wash": I had a bit of a hard time getting all all of mascara off (in part because I had a ton on) so I used a tad of Vaseline to finish getting it off. Other than that it all came off and my skin feels like a baby's =]
(Ignore my hair-I just got out of the shower)
Day 5 (Thursday)
Before "wash": I've got a few more zits...I don't know if it's due to the method, my upcoming cycle, or stress. Besides those zits my skin feels hydrated and soft. I didn't wear any makeup today so maybe that will help out a bit too.
After "wash": Everything went well, as usual. I added a tad of tea tree oil to my zits afterwards so the skin around it won't dry out and peel when I put on makeup. Maybe tomorrow things will start looking better? Maybe this is my "bad" stage and things will clear up again?
Day 6 (Friday)
Before "wash": I have broken out more BUT now I realize it's probably more due to my monthly cycle than the method.
After "wash": I actually "washed" my face in the morning instead of at night so that was different but my skin held up and didn't get dry all day (even under my makeup!)
Day 7 (Saturday)
Before "wash": I slept in my makeup from the night before. I was trying not to do that but alas...I did.
After "wash": Since today was INCREDIBLY busy, I "washed" again in the morning instead of in the evening.
So yesterday, on the 8th day, did I keep it up and see any difference? YES! I plan on using this method at least until my little bottle of the mix is gone. After that I'll decide whether I want to go back to using a billion different products to make the "perfect" combination...and spend a small fortune. Ha! As of now, unless something horrible happens I see myself using this method.
If you use this, let me know how it goes for you! Any problems, any awesome results.
If something bad comes about from this I'll post an update.
Happy "washing"!!
Saturday, December 8, 2012
Growth
I sit back and am overwhelmed by how much I have grown. For that, I am glad.
I am glad I have overcome much of my earlier narrowmindedness,
glad I have grown into a real love with my spouse,
glad I have grown into my own beliefs and morals,
glad I have worked hard,
glad I have grown to love donating and helping people,
glad I feel more comfortable about what I want to do with my life,
glad I have learned SO much, which (obviously) helped me grow leaps and bounds,
glad I have worked to accept myself more for who I am and what I want to be,
glad I have met some people who have changed me for the better,
glad I have continued growth and passion for literature and writing,
glad I have a place to call home, where my growth can form at its own pace,
glad I have a family who nurtures my growth and path,
glad I have recognized many of my weaknesses and want to work on a lot of them,
glad I have undergone such metamorphosis with some truly incredible people alongside me,
glad I have grown-up, down, in, and out.
I am so proud of myself and SO excited to grow more.
I am glad I have overcome much of my earlier narrowmindedness,
glad I have grown into a real love with my spouse,
glad I have grown into my own beliefs and morals,
glad I have worked hard,
glad I have grown to love donating and helping people,
glad I feel more comfortable about what I want to do with my life,
glad I have learned SO much, which (obviously) helped me grow leaps and bounds,
glad I have worked to accept myself more for who I am and what I want to be,
glad I have met some people who have changed me for the better,
glad I have continued growth and passion for literature and writing,
glad I have a place to call home, where my growth can form at its own pace,
glad I have a family who nurtures my growth and path,
glad I have recognized many of my weaknesses and want to work on a lot of them,
glad I have undergone such metamorphosis with some truly incredible people alongside me,
glad I have grown-up, down, in, and out.
I am so proud of myself and SO excited to grow more.
Friday, November 30, 2012
30 Days of Thanks
I'm jumping on the band wagon I suppose, putting what I'm thankful for in writing for 30 days. While I'm not TOO keen on the idea (because we should be doing this anyway), I'm on board. These will be brief because I'm sure I've blogged about most of them before. Please note-I wrote these out daily, not just in a big swoop so there was a daily reflection regarding each and every one.
11-1: I am thankful for a supportive professor (Dr. Aday) who has helped me so much in my grad. school path.
11-2: I am thankful that my thesis is FINALLY done and its process is over.
11-3: I am thankful for getting to wake up everyday with Der by my side AND having this Saturday morning to drink coffee and watch movies.
11-4: I am thankful for two great people (Mairi and Kriss) who lent us their vacuum and steam cleaner. Not only does our carpet look a HELL of a lot better but this will also help my allergies!
11-5: I am thankful for Diet Dr. Pepper that has kept me up when I want to fall asleep.
11-6: I am thankful I was able to vote! It was my first time and I found it kind of special to see everyone come together for the day to make their voices heard.
11-7: I am thankful for a library card. Since my funds are low and I won't get to see my family until December, I went to the library and was able to check out some pretty awesome books to read in November. SCORE!
11-8: I am thankful for seeing some theater. I've been missing out lately and it was so nice to see a show again!
11-9: I am thankful for having a job interview (finally) AND I am thankful for a nice date with my husband.
11-10: I am thankful for being able to watch my awesome nephews-by-non-blood, Andrew and Dylan.
11-11: I am thankful for the military persons who have served, continue to serve, want to serve to help protect the U.S.
11-12: I am thankful for being literate. With my (obsessive) adoration for books and learning, I am SO thankful I had parents and teachers who taught me how to read!
11-13: I am thankful for Mexican lunch with a friend (Kadi).
11-14: I am thankful for crafting with a good friend (Amanda), making gifts for Christmas.
11-15: I am thankful for having time to relax when I wasn't feeling so great.
11-16: I am thankful for having a working and reliable car. It is quite a good one!
11-17: I am thankful for a having two hands, both of which work properly.
11-18: I am thankful for a spouse who works while I am still searching for a job.
11-19: I am thankful for hopes of a future job.
11-20: I am thankful for a successful interview AND an awesome class with some awesome folks.
11-21: I am thankful that my family loves and cares for my spouse like he is their own.
11-22: I am thankful for food in my belly and the funds to be able to provide that food.
11-23: I am thankful for the home we have. It's so nice to have a place to call home.
11-24: I am thankful for old musicals that make me tap my feet and cry from sweet lyrics.
11-25: I am thankful that it seems I just have sinus drainage instead of strep throat!
11-26: I am thankful, despite the bad headache I've had, for a good day.
11-27: I am thankful for a humbling class, where we discussed tough topics like female genital mutilation, feticide, and such. I am thankful that I have not had to go through (by force or by choice) this type of thing.
11-28: I am thankful for the one hour of glorious massage, where the stress of not having a job and ending my grad. school career was worked out of my body.
11-29: I am thankful for time to reflect.
11-30: I am thankful that my mom and sister are coming up tomorrow to visit and Christmas shop! I miss them both so much and can't wait!
So there ya go. 30 days of things I am thankful for. Remember to reflect on what you're thankful for every day and maybe write them down once and a while!
11-1: I am thankful for a supportive professor (Dr. Aday) who has helped me so much in my grad. school path.
11-2: I am thankful that my thesis is FINALLY done and its process is over.
11-3: I am thankful for getting to wake up everyday with Der by my side AND having this Saturday morning to drink coffee and watch movies.
11-4: I am thankful for two great people (Mairi and Kriss) who lent us their vacuum and steam cleaner. Not only does our carpet look a HELL of a lot better but this will also help my allergies!
11-5: I am thankful for Diet Dr. Pepper that has kept me up when I want to fall asleep.
11-6: I am thankful I was able to vote! It was my first time and I found it kind of special to see everyone come together for the day to make their voices heard.
11-7: I am thankful for a library card. Since my funds are low and I won't get to see my family until December, I went to the library and was able to check out some pretty awesome books to read in November. SCORE!
11-8: I am thankful for seeing some theater. I've been missing out lately and it was so nice to see a show again!
11-9: I am thankful for having a job interview (finally) AND I am thankful for a nice date with my husband.
11-10: I am thankful for being able to watch my awesome nephews-by-non-blood, Andrew and Dylan.
11-11: I am thankful for the military persons who have served, continue to serve, want to serve to help protect the U.S.
11-12: I am thankful for being literate. With my (obsessive) adoration for books and learning, I am SO thankful I had parents and teachers who taught me how to read!
11-13: I am thankful for Mexican lunch with a friend (Kadi).
11-14: I am thankful for crafting with a good friend (Amanda), making gifts for Christmas.
11-15: I am thankful for having time to relax when I wasn't feeling so great.
11-16: I am thankful for having a working and reliable car. It is quite a good one!
11-17: I am thankful for a having two hands, both of which work properly.
11-18: I am thankful for a spouse who works while I am still searching for a job.
11-19: I am thankful for hopes of a future job.
11-20: I am thankful for a successful interview AND an awesome class with some awesome folks.
11-21: I am thankful that my family loves and cares for my spouse like he is their own.
11-22: I am thankful for food in my belly and the funds to be able to provide that food.
11-23: I am thankful for the home we have. It's so nice to have a place to call home.
11-24: I am thankful for old musicals that make me tap my feet and cry from sweet lyrics.
11-25: I am thankful that it seems I just have sinus drainage instead of strep throat!
11-26: I am thankful, despite the bad headache I've had, for a good day.
11-27: I am thankful for a humbling class, where we discussed tough topics like female genital mutilation, feticide, and such. I am thankful that I have not had to go through (by force or by choice) this type of thing.
11-28: I am thankful for the one hour of glorious massage, where the stress of not having a job and ending my grad. school career was worked out of my body.
11-29: I am thankful for time to reflect.
11-30: I am thankful that my mom and sister are coming up tomorrow to visit and Christmas shop! I miss them both so much and can't wait!
So there ya go. 30 days of things I am thankful for. Remember to reflect on what you're thankful for every day and maybe write them down once and a while!
Monday, November 19, 2012
My NEW Routine
Since I've lost my job, my daily routine has been a bit different.
Normally, when I had a job and a much busier school schedule, Saturdays were reserved for my main relaxation and cleaning...
But now that I have no job and my school schedule is drastically lighter, here's what I find my routine turning to:
1-Wake up, start coffee.
2-Feed dog, take dog out.
3-LOOK FOR/APPLY TO JOBS.
4-Check news, social media, blogs, etc.
5-Read.
6-Repeat. EVERY. DAY.
(granted some days vary when I have my GA work to do but even still...it's not dramatic)
How D-U-L-L. Well-maybe not for some-but it is to me. I'm starting the 12th week of being unemployed and I am going crazy! When this first happened my mom suggested: "Why don't you work on the projects you normally wouldn't have time to? Re-organize your closet, clean out the kitchen, etc." Sounds good, right? Well I did that...weeks ago! I live in an apartment so there's only so much cleaning, reorganizing, etc. I can DO. The place is clean, organized, ready to be decorated for Christmas. Now what?
Read. I have done a TON of reading (which I truly don't mind) but I start to feel guilty when that's all I do.
Volunteer you suggest? Here's the issue: I don't want to set a volunteer schedule with some place only to get a job and then have to bail...would it kill my time and help others? Absolutely...but it would also be very rude of me to start and then leave so I'm holding out until the beginning of the year.
I'm not my best when I'm not busy. I know it may seem strange but my mood, energy, productivity, and overall outlook are so much better when I am slightly overwhelmed. Having only a job and no graduate school will already be a big change since I've been doing it for 2 years but to have neither? WHOA NOW, SLOW DOWN!
*sigh* I just want a job. I want to feel purpose and motivation again. I like working. Even if I won $10,475,027,175 I still would do something with my time...probably travel and volunteer! But until that happens...I'd just like a job. I am looking into areas both in and outside of my field and my scope of practice. I am being reasonable (actually undercutting) in what I'm asking for salary-wise and commuting.
Sorry if this blog seems whiney and down. I just didn't anticipate this going on this long. Maybe if I can get something by the start of the year that'd be great.
Cross fingers and toes, eh?
Normally, when I had a job and a much busier school schedule, Saturdays were reserved for my main relaxation and cleaning...
But now that I have no job and my school schedule is drastically lighter, here's what I find my routine turning to:
1-Wake up, start coffee.
2-Feed dog, take dog out.
3-LOOK FOR/APPLY TO JOBS.
4-Check news, social media, blogs, etc.
5-Read.
6-Repeat. EVERY. DAY.
(granted some days vary when I have my GA work to do but even still...it's not dramatic)
How D-U-L-L. Well-maybe not for some-but it is to me. I'm starting the 12th week of being unemployed and I am going crazy! When this first happened my mom suggested: "Why don't you work on the projects you normally wouldn't have time to? Re-organize your closet, clean out the kitchen, etc." Sounds good, right? Well I did that...weeks ago! I live in an apartment so there's only so much cleaning, reorganizing, etc. I can DO. The place is clean, organized, ready to be decorated for Christmas. Now what?
Read. I have done a TON of reading (which I truly don't mind) but I start to feel guilty when that's all I do.
Volunteer you suggest? Here's the issue: I don't want to set a volunteer schedule with some place only to get a job and then have to bail...would it kill my time and help others? Absolutely...but it would also be very rude of me to start and then leave so I'm holding out until the beginning of the year.
I'm not my best when I'm not busy. I know it may seem strange but my mood, energy, productivity, and overall outlook are so much better when I am slightly overwhelmed. Having only a job and no graduate school will already be a big change since I've been doing it for 2 years but to have neither? WHOA NOW, SLOW DOWN!
*sigh* I just want a job. I want to feel purpose and motivation again. I like working. Even if I won $10,475,027,175 I still would do something with my time...probably travel and volunteer! But until that happens...I'd just like a job. I am looking into areas both in and outside of my field and my scope of practice. I am being reasonable (actually undercutting) in what I'm asking for salary-wise and commuting.
Sorry if this blog seems whiney and down. I just didn't anticipate this going on this long. Maybe if I can get something by the start of the year that'd be great.
Cross fingers and toes, eh?
Thursday, November 1, 2012
My Meatless Month
Well well...it's finally done. I went an entire month without eating ANY meat!
I've had a lot of questions regarding this decision...let me explain the biggest one.
WHY do this?
1.Well the main reason is that I'm coming more into animal rights and realize it's pretty hypocritical to fight for treatment only to nom nom on them afterwards.
2. I wanted to see if I could do it.
3. I wanted to see what it's all about (besides the animal treatment).
So...I did it! It was an interesting experience. I learned a lot!
PROS:
1. Less fast food and restaurant options for the places we normally go to.
2. (And because of #1) I realized how really limited those places are for vegetarians and vegans.
3. I wasn't eating meat and attempting to make a difference in animal treatment!
4. I had a lot of protein via beans and greens instead of meat.
5. My body didn't react badly.
6. (I think) some weight or inches were lost!
7. I learned about some substitutions for meat and other animal related foods (for example: you can replace eggs with applesauce for baked goods and there's NO taste difference)
8. I realized how much I (and many others) do not think about vegetarian and vegan options when making food for parties or special occasions. I really need to be cognoscente of that!
CONS:
1. I found it really inconvenient. (I know that sounds snotty but I'm being honest and realistic.) Since there weren't really many options at fast food/restaurant locals (see PRO #1 and #2 above) and D and I are pretty busy...it was some times tough to figure out what to eat. I had a lot of fruit smoothies and grilled cheeses, lol.
2. I did not research enough recipes. This was my fault.
3. I don't like (or haven't tried) enough veggies for this to be a full time option as of yet.
4. As Der was not going meatless for the month, financially and realistically I didn't really know how to plan our meals together when we actually were able to sit down. Lucky for me-D was quick and when we could have meals together, he split a pizza without meat or assisted in helping me find something ;)
Overall I enjoyed it and plan on doing it again (further exploring other veggie options and researching more recipes), especially while I'm learning more about it (vegetarian history, movements, animal rights, etc.)
If you get the chance-DO IT! Try it out, see what it's like from the other side and hell-maybe you'll keep it up!
I've had a lot of questions regarding this decision...let me explain the biggest one.
WHY do this?
1.Well the main reason is that I'm coming more into animal rights and realize it's pretty hypocritical to fight for treatment only to nom nom on them afterwards.
2. I wanted to see if I could do it.
3. I wanted to see what it's all about (besides the animal treatment).
So...I did it! It was an interesting experience. I learned a lot!
PROS:
1. Less fast food and restaurant options for the places we normally go to.
2. (And because of #1) I realized how really limited those places are for vegetarians and vegans.
3. I wasn't eating meat and attempting to make a difference in animal treatment!
4. I had a lot of protein via beans and greens instead of meat.
5. My body didn't react badly.
6. (I think) some weight or inches were lost!
7. I learned about some substitutions for meat and other animal related foods (for example: you can replace eggs with applesauce for baked goods and there's NO taste difference)
8. I realized how much I (and many others) do not think about vegetarian and vegan options when making food for parties or special occasions. I really need to be cognoscente of that!
CONS:
1. I found it really inconvenient. (I know that sounds snotty but I'm being honest and realistic.) Since there weren't really many options at fast food/restaurant locals (see PRO #1 and #2 above) and D and I are pretty busy...it was some times tough to figure out what to eat. I had a lot of fruit smoothies and grilled cheeses, lol.
2. I did not research enough recipes. This was my fault.
3. I don't like (or haven't tried) enough veggies for this to be a full time option as of yet.
4. As Der was not going meatless for the month, financially and realistically I didn't really know how to plan our meals together when we actually were able to sit down. Lucky for me-D was quick and when we could have meals together, he split a pizza without meat or assisted in helping me find something ;)
Overall I enjoyed it and plan on doing it again (further exploring other veggie options and researching more recipes), especially while I'm learning more about it (vegetarian history, movements, animal rights, etc.)
If you get the chance-DO IT! Try it out, see what it's like from the other side and hell-maybe you'll keep it up!
Saturday, October 13, 2012
Closet Re-Vamp
As you've all probably gathered, I love to donate and to organize.
So after reading lovely Sarah's blog, I (again) wanted to go through my closet and drawers to sort, try on, and organize!
On the plus side: October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (remember when I wrote about it last year?) so all of what I am tossing will be donated LOCALLY to the people in the DV and homeless shelters right here in town! I just love it!
On the OTHER plus side: it lets me see what I'm lacking in my wardrobe, what else I need/want, and what does and does not fit! I was pretty scrupulous when going through everything to look for holes, stains, rips, etc. and deemed if it was worthy of donation, trash, or needed to go in my sew pile for fixing (or as fabric for later projects).
I went through e.v.e.r.y. piece of clothing (meaning all panties, socks, jackets, scarves, shirts, skirts, etc.) and tried them all on. Everything that did not fit me was put in the donation pile (with the exception of panties...those that didn't fit were trashed). Everything that was still in good shape but I didn't want also went in the donation pile. And what did I donate you ask? A great pile of stuff! There are bras, tanks, shoes, tights, dresses, dress pants, t-shirts, and more!
Cheers to donating, purging, and finding new things to wear!
XOX,
J
So after reading lovely Sarah's blog, I (again) wanted to go through my closet and drawers to sort, try on, and organize!
On the plus side: October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (remember when I wrote about it last year?) so all of what I am tossing will be donated LOCALLY to the people in the DV and homeless shelters right here in town! I just love it!
On the OTHER plus side: it lets me see what I'm lacking in my wardrobe, what else I need/want, and what does and does not fit! I was pretty scrupulous when going through everything to look for holes, stains, rips, etc. and deemed if it was worthy of donation, trash, or needed to go in my sew pile for fixing (or as fabric for later projects).
I went through e.v.e.r.y. piece of clothing (meaning all panties, socks, jackets, scarves, shirts, skirts, etc.) and tried them all on. Everything that did not fit me was put in the donation pile (with the exception of panties...those that didn't fit were trashed). Everything that was still in good shape but I didn't want also went in the donation pile. And what did I donate you ask? A great pile of stuff! There are bras, tanks, shoes, tights, dresses, dress pants, t-shirts, and more!
This is the pile before I bagged it, grouped into categories. Below are (bad) shots of my closet and shoe rack after off-loading these goods (and all reorganized for the fall/winter months ahead).
Well that's it! I urge you to attempt to donate locally if possible as it REALLY makes a difference plus what have you got to lose?
Plus now that I have made room in both my dresser drawers and closet, I know what I need to fill in gaps and find stuff that fits better.
Cheers to donating, purging, and finding new things to wear!
XOX,
J
Friday, October 5, 2012
I haven't been meaning to neglect you...
...but I've been in a whirlwind of emotion and stress lately. Let me catch you up:
*I was let go of my job 5 weeks ago. While it was pretty hard for me it has provided me with the adequate time needed to really focus on my last semester of graduate school. That being said, stress regarding finances and what I'm going to do after December is pretty high at the moment.
*I have stopped taking birth control. It may not seem like that big of a deal but after being on some form of BC for 10 years, my body is trying to synch back up to normal and my hormones are WAY out of whack. I did not go off so we could have a kid. We are using other methods of contraception-just nothing based in hormones and chemicals. So I've got a sour stomach, super depressy hormons etc. that I'm trying to deal with
*I am trying to finish my thesis. Like I said: I am fortunate to NOT have a job right now so I can focus on this but I am still stressing out. I'm putting so much pressure on myself that I get sick daily (this was happening before I went off BC). The worst that will happen is that on PAPER I won't graduate until May 2013 and I'll have to pay $450 for 1 credit hour next semester. Regardless, my classes will be done so I can get a full time job, have insurance, and benefits again (and DUH-money)!
*I have gone meatless for the month of October. While it's really neat (and saving me money in not buying fast food) it's probably bad timing, lol. I plan on writing a massive blog after day 31 with details, tips, stuggles and accomplishments I've found in this diet.
I don't know if I'm stressing out so much because I'm so close or because I am constantly thinking about getting a job in this horrible job market....
I by NO means am busier than my fellow grads and professors. I am amazed and oftentimes intimidated by how much they (and by they I USUALLY mean we) can fit into schedules. I used to be one of those people and as of late...I just suck at it! I think it's because I miss routine and I miss being busy.
I will say graduate school has thus far been the hardest thing I've ever done (with the exception of this thesis...THAT'S the hardest)! It's kind of awesome but still hard. I have put more tears, hard work, time, and energy into these past 2 years than I have in pretty much anything else (besides my marriage-I work on that daily =])
I think I'm just ready. Ready for a break from school, ready to work again, ready to explore options for a Ph. D program, ready to potentially move and start a new chapter of my life.
Ah well. Luck, prayers, good thoughts, etc. are welcome this way if you feel so inclined. I'll take it!
*I was let go of my job 5 weeks ago. While it was pretty hard for me it has provided me with the adequate time needed to really focus on my last semester of graduate school. That being said, stress regarding finances and what I'm going to do after December is pretty high at the moment.
*I have stopped taking birth control. It may not seem like that big of a deal but after being on some form of BC for 10 years, my body is trying to synch back up to normal and my hormones are WAY out of whack. I did not go off so we could have a kid. We are using other methods of contraception-just nothing based in hormones and chemicals. So I've got a sour stomach, super depressy hormons etc. that I'm trying to deal with
*I am trying to finish my thesis. Like I said: I am fortunate to NOT have a job right now so I can focus on this but I am still stressing out. I'm putting so much pressure on myself that I get sick daily (this was happening before I went off BC). The worst that will happen is that on PAPER I won't graduate until May 2013 and I'll have to pay $450 for 1 credit hour next semester. Regardless, my classes will be done so I can get a full time job, have insurance, and benefits again (and DUH-money)!
*I have gone meatless for the month of October. While it's really neat (and saving me money in not buying fast food) it's probably bad timing, lol. I plan on writing a massive blog after day 31 with details, tips, stuggles and accomplishments I've found in this diet.
I don't know if I'm stressing out so much because I'm so close or because I am constantly thinking about getting a job in this horrible job market....
I by NO means am busier than my fellow grads and professors. I am amazed and oftentimes intimidated by how much they (and by they I USUALLY mean we) can fit into schedules. I used to be one of those people and as of late...I just suck at it! I think it's because I miss routine and I miss being busy.
I will say graduate school has thus far been the hardest thing I've ever done (with the exception of this thesis...THAT'S the hardest)! It's kind of awesome but still hard. I have put more tears, hard work, time, and energy into these past 2 years than I have in pretty much anything else (besides my marriage-I work on that daily =])
I think I'm just ready. Ready for a break from school, ready to work again, ready to explore options for a Ph. D program, ready to potentially move and start a new chapter of my life.
Ah well. Luck, prayers, good thoughts, etc. are welcome this way if you feel so inclined. I'll take it!
Friday, September 21, 2012
A Good Marriage Indeed
My marriage is a good one. I look back on some memories and almost weep from happiness because I feel I have been able to be myself through it all. I think part of it has to do with the fact that D and I were best friends before we started dating. But I realize I don't compromise my beliefs, my standards, my desires for him and the best part is that I don't have to. My ex, for example, was a smoker. I had always said I'd never date a smoker and lo-and-behold I stayed with the guy for almost 3 years. This obviously isn't as huge a deal as say difference of religion or different politics but it was still something I compromised on when I didn't really want to. Cigarettes make me sick to my stomach, smell like shit, and give me major headaches (not to mention the OBVIOUS con of them being extraordinarily unhealthy for you). When I look back on that relationship, even though it had some wonderful memories, I realized I compromised a lot of myself. This is one reason, I think, why it failed and why I was so absolutely heartbroken when it did. I was disappointed in how it ended but also disappointed in myself for putting up with crap I didn't want to but did out of love. Yes, love is important in relationships but there are other factors just as important at play and they all need to be taken in to account when working the intricate network that is a relationship.
I don't have to do that with Derrick. Yes we bicker but the point is we talk about disagreements and come to compromises together instead of one person making a sacrifice for the other.
Plus we just have a lot of fun and laugher is incredibly sexy.
I was thinking back to when we sat down and first talked about him liking me. I was adamantly opposed to us dating. I thought it was sweet that he liked but but didn't want to date anyone, namely my best friend. So he took the news in stride as we talked for hours and then after it was all said and done, suggested we play "hot lava" (if you don't know what "hot lava" is: 1) you missed something awesome in your childhood and 2) it is where participants climb on everything BUT the floor (because the floor is hot lava) to a safe point). So we ended a snowy evening in February of 2008 playing hot lava and laughing after an intense conversation about love and loss. We didn't end up dating until a few weeks later but it was a comforting and insightful evening when a friendship was further etched in stone and feelings of interest and intrigue were developing (for me).
This is just one example of the awesome that encompasses my relationship with my husband. I'm not sure how people see us, nor do I really care. D is one of the sweetest, funniest, smartest of people I have ever come across and it's often so refreshing.
I think why we work is because it's not that my husband is my best friend...it's my best friend is my husband. I get to be myself, fully 100% of the time (even when those times are ugly, mean, angry, embarrassed, etc.). There are times when we act like roommates, like lovers, like enemies, like strangers, like old friends, like new friends, like a couple. And of course, most of the time all of this is wrapped up in one!
This wasn't a post intended to brag about my spouse (although I have no problems with bragging about him and us). Sometimes I get caught up in the hustle-and-bustle of our busy lives and overlook what makes life truly amazing and perfect for me. It's laughter, history, smiles, stories, anger, rebirth, friendship, sleeping, learning, reading, loving. And I am ever so fortunate to be able to do it all with a guy I happen to swoon over daily.
That's absolutely enough for me.
I don't have to do that with Derrick. Yes we bicker but the point is we talk about disagreements and come to compromises together instead of one person making a sacrifice for the other.
Plus we just have a lot of fun and laugher is incredibly sexy.
I was thinking back to when we sat down and first talked about him liking me. I was adamantly opposed to us dating. I thought it was sweet that he liked but but didn't want to date anyone, namely my best friend. So he took the news in stride as we talked for hours and then after it was all said and done, suggested we play "hot lava" (if you don't know what "hot lava" is: 1) you missed something awesome in your childhood and 2) it is where participants climb on everything BUT the floor (because the floor is hot lava) to a safe point). So we ended a snowy evening in February of 2008 playing hot lava and laughing after an intense conversation about love and loss. We didn't end up dating until a few weeks later but it was a comforting and insightful evening when a friendship was further etched in stone and feelings of interest and intrigue were developing (for me).
This is just one example of the awesome that encompasses my relationship with my husband. I'm not sure how people see us, nor do I really care. D is one of the sweetest, funniest, smartest of people I have ever come across and it's often so refreshing.
I think why we work is because it's not that my husband is my best friend...it's my best friend is my husband. I get to be myself, fully 100% of the time (even when those times are ugly, mean, angry, embarrassed, etc.). There are times when we act like roommates, like lovers, like enemies, like strangers, like old friends, like new friends, like a couple. And of course, most of the time all of this is wrapped up in one!
This wasn't a post intended to brag about my spouse (although I have no problems with bragging about him and us). Sometimes I get caught up in the hustle-and-bustle of our busy lives and overlook what makes life truly amazing and perfect for me. It's laughter, history, smiles, stories, anger, rebirth, friendship, sleeping, learning, reading, loving. And I am ever so fortunate to be able to do it all with a guy I happen to swoon over daily.
That's absolutely enough for me.
Saturday, September 8, 2012
Motivational Issues
It's not even procrastination that's getting me I suppose...I just have no motivation to do anything school related. I find that I have this habit when I start getting really close to something and a bit anxious about it I kind of shut down and don't want to do anything...which of course is a horrible habit to have, especially while trying to complete my last semester of Graduate school.
Boo.
And today it's raining which makes me only want to stay inside, finish my book and nap sporadically throughout the day.
*Sigh*
Any advice on getting motivation? I've tried looking at the big picture, I've tried ridding of distractions, I've tried to calm down (in case anxiety is what's ailing me). Nada.
I think part of it has to do with having so much more time on my hands that I'm like "Ah, I can do that another day because I've got SO much time" when really I don't. Damn!
I think I'll go get a donut, some coffee, and hide my book until the stuff is done.... I had plans to go to the library but I don't want to walk in the rain (lazy) and it isn't opened for too long today.
Let's hope it works!
Boo.
And today it's raining which makes me only want to stay inside, finish my book and nap sporadically throughout the day.
*Sigh*
Any advice on getting motivation? I've tried looking at the big picture, I've tried ridding of distractions, I've tried to calm down (in case anxiety is what's ailing me). Nada.
I think part of it has to do with having so much more time on my hands that I'm like "Ah, I can do that another day because I've got SO much time" when really I don't. Damn!
I think I'll go get a donut, some coffee, and hide my book until the stuff is done.... I had plans to go to the library but I don't want to walk in the rain (lazy) and it isn't opened for too long today.
Let's hope it works!
Friday, September 7, 2012
Rub on, rub off
Some people say the longer you are with someone the more you start to rub off on one another.
I think me and D are great examples of this.
We've exposed one another to new kinds of food, music, movies, literature, cultures, ideas, attitudes, behaviors and philosophies. We've come to love some while not liking others. Some we make a conscious effort to absorb while others unintentionally cling and become part of our daily nuances.
I kind of like that. I'm not like this with too many people. My best friend (Destiny) and I are like this, my mom and I are like this, and now D is added. Granted it can be argued that spending enough time with ANYONE will cause these type of things to happen but I don't know.... Well...I guess that may be right slightly. I did pick up a few mannerisms from my ex and visa versa but not many (probably in part because we were very different).
I like that my sense of optimism and good-spiritedness has rubbed off on his broody and guarded person. I like that his sense of ground standing has rubbed off and taken a more prominent form in my life, giving me confidence in another arena of me. I like that I introduced him to the doors and he liked them so much he included some of them in our wedding vows. I like that he has shown me new places on the other side of the country, enticing adventure (which evolved my love for travel even further).
All in all, I like us. We are quite a pair of silly, nerdy, brainy, fun loving people. We rub off on one another in (mostly) fantastic ways and I get super excited to see what else will start showing in the next 4.5 years <3 p="p">
I think me and D are great examples of this.
We've exposed one another to new kinds of food, music, movies, literature, cultures, ideas, attitudes, behaviors and philosophies. We've come to love some while not liking others. Some we make a conscious effort to absorb while others unintentionally cling and become part of our daily nuances.
I kind of like that. I'm not like this with too many people. My best friend (Destiny) and I are like this, my mom and I are like this, and now D is added. Granted it can be argued that spending enough time with ANYONE will cause these type of things to happen but I don't know.... Well...I guess that may be right slightly. I did pick up a few mannerisms from my ex and visa versa but not many (probably in part because we were very different).
I like that my sense of optimism and good-spiritedness has rubbed off on his broody and guarded person. I like that his sense of ground standing has rubbed off and taken a more prominent form in my life, giving me confidence in another arena of me. I like that I introduced him to the doors and he liked them so much he included some of them in our wedding vows. I like that he has shown me new places on the other side of the country, enticing adventure (which evolved my love for travel even further).
All in all, I like us. We are quite a pair of silly, nerdy, brainy, fun loving people. We rub off on one another in (mostly) fantastic ways and I get super excited to see what else will start showing in the next 4.5 years <3 p="p">
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Good-bye sweet summer!
This summer has truly been an amazing one. Lots of travel, sunshine, learning, and laughing has taken place. My goals haven't all been done but alas...such is summer =]
*Big Goals*
-Take a family trip to Universal Studios. WE HAD A BLAST!
-Start and complete level 5 (the last) of the French Rosetta Stone. FAIL-I'm officially putting on my semester schedule (like a class) so I will get it done!
-Complete volunteer work towards the end of the month. FAIL
-Start (what will hopefully be) my last semester of Graduate School. I am pumped! Busy busy busy, coming my way!
*Smaller Goals*
-Read. (I read "Dracula" by Bram Stoker, "Jesus Freaks: A True Story of Murder and Madness on the Evangelical Edge" by Don Lattin" and "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" by Ken Kensey-I also read book 3 of the HP series)
-Make an A for my SK class.
-Get organized. (I've combined me and D's schedules for the semester (including both work and school along with appts., etc.) and as crazy as it looks it makes me feel MUCH better about organizing it all!
-FINALLY get my hair cut. (Seriously-it's been since April!)
-Start new research. (Now while it's in its prime, I am REALLY hoping to hanker down and get it going this semester, including IRB approval and the creation of my interview questions. I've already started gathering literature and coming up with hypotheses)
-Spend more time with friends.
-Spend some time with past/present/future Soc. grad students.
What a grand summer it has been-I love summers so much and always look forward to them.
*Big Goals*
-Start and complete level 5 (the last) of the French Rosetta Stone. FAIL-I'm officially putting on my semester schedule (like a class) so I will get it done!
-Complete volunteer work towards the end of the month. FAIL
*Smaller Goals*
What a grand summer it has been-I love summers so much and always look forward to them.
Monday, August 20, 2012
It's coming!
I'll admit it-I'm a bit superstitious. Not about big things but I get nervous talking about things before they happen for fear that they won't. I have pretty shitty luck to be honest. Some people don't believe in luck. I do. And mine is not so awesome.
But I'm going to go on a limb here and say it.
IN 1 WEEK I WILL BE STARTING MY LAST SEMESTER OF GRADUATE SCHOOL.
*pause for reaction*
Did you read that right?! YES YOU DID! MY LAST SEMESTER! It's a really surreal feeling. I remember prepping for my GRE and then getting accepted as both a graduate student and a GA. It's gone by so fast in retrospect.
I am amazed. I am REALLY hoping my luck doesn't take a turn for the worse and everything can actually pan out how I am hoping. December 15th is the official graduation date...and I hope I make it!
Good thoughts, well wishes, and such are much appreciated! I'm ready to have my MA in Sociology and start researching and teaching the world!
But I'm going to go on a limb here and say it.
IN 1 WEEK I WILL BE STARTING MY LAST SEMESTER OF GRADUATE SCHOOL.
*pause for reaction*
Did you read that right?! YES YOU DID! MY LAST SEMESTER! It's a really surreal feeling. I remember prepping for my GRE and then getting accepted as both a graduate student and a GA. It's gone by so fast in retrospect.
I am amazed. I am REALLY hoping my luck doesn't take a turn for the worse and everything can actually pan out how I am hoping. December 15th is the official graduation date...and I hope I make it!
Good thoughts, well wishes, and such are much appreciated! I'm ready to have my MA in Sociology and start researching and teaching the world!
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Sometimes
Sometimes, it's really hard for me to see the good in things.
Sometimes, it's really hard for me to forgive.
Sometimes, it's really hard for be to be grateful.
Sometimes, I want to throw in the towel and just mope.
Sometimes, I don't see a bright future, only pain and fear.
Sometimes, I say hurtful things to those I care about.
But you know what?
This is only sometimes.
I work EVERY DAY to see the bright side, to realize that my petty problems are just that-petty. Although sometimes I fail, I pick myself back up and consciously try to make those around me (including myself) happy, peaceful, aware.
I admit defeat. I admit I have issues and faults but damn it, I admit that I TRY!
Sometimes, I just really need to get guilt off of my chest and realize that I try and trying is such a wonderful, wonderful thing.
Sometimes, it's really hard for me to forgive.
Sometimes, it's really hard for be to be grateful.
Sometimes, I want to throw in the towel and just mope.
Sometimes, I don't see a bright future, only pain and fear.
Sometimes, I say hurtful things to those I care about.
But you know what?
This is only sometimes.
I work EVERY DAY to see the bright side, to realize that my petty problems are just that-petty. Although sometimes I fail, I pick myself back up and consciously try to make those around me (including myself) happy, peaceful, aware.
I admit defeat. I admit I have issues and faults but damn it, I admit that I TRY!
Sometimes, I just really need to get guilt off of my chest and realize that I try and trying is such a wonderful, wonderful thing.
Thursday, August 9, 2012
Down with July!
I had these plans for the summer-some have worked out and others...not so much. July was a busy one and a great one! Check it out!
*Bigger Things*
-Celebrate the 4th of July It was neat because the 4th is one of my FAVORITE holidays and Derrick and I actually spent it in town for the first time. It was cool to part of this city's collective happiness to see fireworks, swim, and enjoy the patriotism of the country for one night.
-Revise and work on rewrites for my thesis FAIL-I was all focused on my class....
-Start and complete levels 3 and 4 of the French Rosetta Stone ANOTHER FAIL...again, focused on class and this severely fell by the waist side
-Continue volunteer work. NOPE. Although remember my previous post about why?
*Smaller Things*
-Cook and bake more
-READ (I am rereading the Harry Potter series (I finished books 1 and 2 in July) and also read "The Lightning Thief" by Rick Riordian, "The Invisible Man" by H.G. Wells, and "Deception Point" by Dan Brown)
-Complete class (and what an INTERESTING and fun course it was!)
-Take care of Tucker pup (he was getting sick towards the end of the month but a new diet and some medication have helped a ton!)
-Send thank you cards/birthday cards/anniversary cards (which also assisted in my RAoK)
-Spend time with my new friend(s)
-Work, work, work
-Register for (what I'm hoping will be) my last semester of Graduate school
-Get my craft on! I had a day of sewing with my aunt and we made a lot of cool things! I've made some cloth napkins, some hand towels, and grocery bags-all from old pillow cases! UPCYCLING Y'ALL! And I made a sweet apron for my boss' birthday-I'll post pictures of the process later. I LOVE to sew and had a really great time. When we've got more funds for "extra" spending I plan on getting some fabric and starting another quilt!
Overall, another busy and fun month. I'm starting to "mourn" the summer because I know with it now being August I've only got a few weeks left of this glorious time! Ah well-best make the most of it, eh?
*Bigger Things*
-Revise and work on rewrites for my thesis FAIL-I was all focused on my class....
-Start and complete levels 3 and 4 of the French Rosetta Stone ANOTHER FAIL...again, focused on class and this severely fell by the waist side
-Continue volunteer work. NOPE. Although remember my previous post about why?
*Smaller Things*
Overall, another busy and fun month. I'm starting to "mourn" the summer because I know with it now being August I've only got a few weeks left of this glorious time! Ah well-best make the most of it, eh?
Saturday, June 30, 2012
Random Acts of Kindness-part II
I have severly slacked in blogging as of late-especially regarding my random acts of kindness (RoK). Now I will take blame in that I have not done a RoK every Wednesday...BUT-I have been consciously thinking about it and making sure to still do them although I'd like to get back to a once-a-week thing.
I have:
1. Written letters to friends and family just to say "Hello"
2. Complemented random strangers on how well they do their job(s).
3. Left magazines I get every month in the laundry mat for others to enjoy.
4. Planned future RoK for the firefighters down the street and for my Aunt (though for the time being funds are the issue to why these haven't been started)
5. Written love notes to my husband almost daily for him to see when he wakes up
Not much but still something. I've got lots of ideas though a few of them cost money which I don't necessarily have for these type of purchases...I'm hoping to do one at a time and that way it won't break my budget but will also be kind! <3
Now please remember: I'm not doing these acts for bragging rights or self-entitlement. I genuinely believe doing things for others creates more peace and happiness!
I have:
1. Written letters to friends and family just to say "Hello"
2. Complemented random strangers on how well they do their job(s).
3. Left magazines I get every month in the laundry mat for others to enjoy.
4. Planned future RoK for the firefighters down the street and for my Aunt (though for the time being funds are the issue to why these haven't been started)
5. Written love notes to my husband almost daily for him to see when he wakes up
Not much but still something. I've got lots of ideas though a few of them cost money which I don't necessarily have for these type of purchases...I'm hoping to do one at a time and that way it won't break my budget but will also be kind! <3
Now please remember: I'm not doing these acts for bragging rights or self-entitlement. I genuinely believe doing things for others creates more peace and happiness!
Have you done anything kind for someone else lately?
Friday, June 29, 2012
June down, July and August to go
June has been a wiley month, for sure but I still got a lot accomplished. Not as much as I had planned but still-it's been a good month!
*Bigger Things*
-Input and analyze my thesis data. I technically haven't analyzed it but it has all been input into the software needed and I have created my tables. Success!
-Start and complete levels 1 and 2 of the French Rosetta Stone. No way. I have started it and have worked quite diligently on it but I don't think I gave it enough credit on how in-depth and long it takes. I am just now almost done with level 1. I am very glad it's so in-depth but it will probably take my until school starts again to get through levels 1 & 2 (with 3 more levels to go)! But I am learning so much already (and I took 3 years in high school and scored high in the national test I had to take) and I'd suggest Rosetta Stone to EVERYONE! An investment for sure (it's costly) but worth every cent. I feel like I already know more than I learned in 3 years of French and I am having reading, listening, writing, and speaking blended simultaneously, which is helping greatly.
-Start volunteer work at the Domestic Violence Center of Rutherford County. This didn't happen...I was offered my 40 hours back at work and unfortunately the volunteer work I'd be capable of doing is only from 8:30-4 M-F. It bums me out a bit but I'm still trying to donate supplies when I can and I read up on their news. Maybe after I graduate I can? I really hope so.
*Smaller Things*
-Start class officially and start my readings/homework
-I read 4 books which were all great! “The Kite Runner” by Khaled Hosseini, “The Bell Jar” by Sylvia Plath, “Water for Elephants” by Sara Gruen and “Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children” by Ransom Riggs.
-Enjoy (as always) date nights and time at home with my family
-Work, work, work
-Hang out with new friends
-Cook a lot more (blogs to come later)
-Relax
-Do more RoK’s (random acts of kindness)
*Bigger Things*
-Start and complete levels 1 and 2 of the French Rosetta Stone. No way. I have started it and have worked quite diligently on it but I don't think I gave it enough credit on how in-depth and long it takes. I am just now almost done with level 1. I am very glad it's so in-depth but it will probably take my until school starts again to get through levels 1 & 2 (with 3 more levels to go)! But I am learning so much already (and I took 3 years in high school and scored high in the national test I had to take) and I'd suggest Rosetta Stone to EVERYONE! An investment for sure (it's costly) but worth every cent. I feel like I already know more than I learned in 3 years of French and I am having reading, listening, writing, and speaking blended simultaneously, which is helping greatly.
-Start volunteer work at the Domestic Violence Center of Rutherford County. This didn't happen...I was offered my 40 hours back at work and unfortunately the volunteer work I'd be capable of doing is only from 8:30-4 M-F. It bums me out a bit but I'm still trying to donate supplies when I can and I read up on their news. Maybe after I graduate I can? I really hope so.
*Smaller Things*
Monday, June 18, 2012
Reduce your plan to writing. The moment you complete this, you will have definitely given concrete form to the intangible desire. ~Napoleon Hill
July is already bursting with the writing I'm going to have to do.
I say have to because I've got to work on the re-writes for my thesis and attempt to get a rough draft of the damn thing done by the end of the month. I also have a paper due and shorter writing assignments for class by August 1st.
But I am EXCITED about it! I've felt stuck, stopped up, blocked when it comes to writing.
I've started writing a bit for fun lately and it's been really nice! After finding out that my poetry from the past has been destroyed (which truly breaks my heart) I guess the winds have changed and are willing to let me have another go...and maybe this time I'll actually publish it!
I'm getting a few things tweaked here and there regarding my thesis and my class paper so hopefully by Sunday July 1st I can start writing full force and get revisions and re-works back...which I admit is a very humbling and terrifying experience for me but a good experience just the same.
Hopefully I can keep it up, the steam, the excitement, the flow.
I'll let you know how it works out!
I say have to because I've got to work on the re-writes for my thesis and attempt to get a rough draft of the damn thing done by the end of the month. I also have a paper due and shorter writing assignments for class by August 1st.
But I am EXCITED about it! I've felt stuck, stopped up, blocked when it comes to writing.
I've started writing a bit for fun lately and it's been really nice! After finding out that my poetry from the past has been destroyed (which truly breaks my heart) I guess the winds have changed and are willing to let me have another go...and maybe this time I'll actually publish it!
I'm getting a few things tweaked here and there regarding my thesis and my class paper so hopefully by Sunday July 1st I can start writing full force and get revisions and re-works back...which I admit is a very humbling and terrifying experience for me but a good experience just the same.
Hopefully I can keep it up, the steam, the excitement, the flow.
I'll let you know how it works out!
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
A slice of good and a slice of bad
Okay the bad.
I did not have a great day...in fact I've had a rather not-so-great week thus far...and instead of going to key the rest of my thesis data in (like I should) this evening I plan on drinking a margarita, finishing my book, and taking a bath. A long, hot bath. I need to relax, to shift perspectives, to look at the good. I have such an amazing life that sometimes my first world problems piss me off so much that I then start smiling, realizing just how wonderful my problems truly are!
It's a great problem to have to know that you don't have the money to get crappy fast food because your kitchen is stocked full of more nutritious and serving appropriate. It's nice to know that I have a job to go to where I am good at what I do and usually get along with the staff, regardless of how much sometimes it frustrates me. It's good to know that I have concerns about my future because I've been working SO HARD for it, especially regarding my Masters. I've got a lot of good. Which always makes up for a bad day.
And on that note...
I have started writing again! It's slowly coming back but coming just the same and that makes me H-A-P-P-Y! Hopefully something will actually come from it but we'll see. This is so good.
So I'll take my slice of both bad and good and let them lie today. I'd rather have the rest of the evening be thoughtless and neutral.
Tomorrow is a new day, with fresh breath, bright lights, and new thoughts. There's nothing better than knowing that, right?
I did not have a great day...in fact I've had a rather not-so-great week thus far...and instead of going to key the rest of my thesis data in (like I should) this evening I plan on drinking a margarita, finishing my book, and taking a bath. A long, hot bath. I need to relax, to shift perspectives, to look at the good. I have such an amazing life that sometimes my first world problems piss me off so much that I then start smiling, realizing just how wonderful my problems truly are!
It's a great problem to have to know that you don't have the money to get crappy fast food because your kitchen is stocked full of more nutritious and serving appropriate. It's nice to know that I have a job to go to where I am good at what I do and usually get along with the staff, regardless of how much sometimes it frustrates me. It's good to know that I have concerns about my future because I've been working SO HARD for it, especially regarding my Masters. I've got a lot of good. Which always makes up for a bad day.
And on that note...
I have started writing again! It's slowly coming back but coming just the same and that makes me H-A-P-P-Y! Hopefully something will actually come from it but we'll see. This is so good.
So I'll take my slice of both bad and good and let them lie today. I'd rather have the rest of the evening be thoughtless and neutral.
Tomorrow is a new day, with fresh breath, bright lights, and new thoughts. There's nothing better than knowing that, right?
Monday, June 4, 2012
May down, June, July and August to go!
Remember when I said I was pumped about summer and couldn't wait for it to begin?
Yeah-May was pretty amazing. I did everything I had planned on doing and more!!
*Bigger things*
-Celebrate my 25th birthday
-Celebrate my 2 year wedding anniversary with Derrick <3
-Take a week long trip with Derrick to Hawaii to visit my best friend Destiny
-Take a course on Serial Killers for school I'm counting this-I started the course but it won't officially be over until August 3rd.
*Smaller things*
-Spend some much needed time with my best friend(s)
-Get back into my regular non-school work routine
-Make all A's
-Complete TG report
-READ READ READ
-Organize and number thesis data
-Start searching for future research ideas
-Hang out with new friends
-Lounge by the pool
-Walk Tucker
-Enjoy (as always) date nights
Such a fun and fast month May was...here's to hoping June holds just as much fun! I'm 4 days in and I can already tell it is looking to be pretty awesome!
Yeah-May was pretty amazing. I did everything I had planned on doing and more!!
*Bigger things*
*Smaller things*
Such a fun and fast month May was...here's to hoping June holds just as much fun! I'm 4 days in and I can already tell it is looking to be pretty awesome!
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Oy Vey!
How does one cure writers block?
I've had it for weeks now...blocked from poetry, blocked from blogs, blocked from my thesis, just blocked in general regarding writing....
I'm surprised I got this much out considering....
Thoughts? Ideas? Suggestions?
I'm stuck.
I've had it for weeks now...blocked from poetry, blocked from blogs, blocked from my thesis, just blocked in general regarding writing....
I'm surprised I got this much out considering....
Thoughts? Ideas? Suggestions?
I'm stuck.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Buffalo Chicken Roll
I was scrolling through my pinterest page looking for meal ideas when I came across this-the buffalo chicken roll! The "real" name of this recipe is called Buffalo Chicken Garbage Bread but I altered the title because the "garbage" part just didn't make any sense and honestly sounded completely unappetizing...So, after finding the recipe page I decided to try it out.
Buffalo Chicken Roll
Ingredients:
1-chicken breasts, cut into small pieces or shredded
2-dough (I bought pre-made pizza dough but you can make your own too)
3-1/4 cup wing sauce
4-1/3 cup ranch
5- shredded cheese
6-salt and pepper
Directions:
1-Sprinkle salt and pepper over chicken pieces.
2-Bake chicken at 350 degrees for approximately 10 minutes or until thoroughly cooked.
3-Reheat oven to 425 degrees.
4-Pull out dough and make into a rectangular shape. The original directions say to lay floue on the counter or table before doing this...I used wax paper instead but I feel like flour would have been more beneficial here.
Buffalo Chicken Roll
Ingredients:
1-chicken breasts, cut into small pieces or shredded
2-dough (I bought pre-made pizza dough but you can make your own too)
3-1/4 cup wing sauce
4-1/3 cup ranch
5- shredded cheese
6-salt and pepper
Directions:
1-Sprinkle salt and pepper over chicken pieces.
2-Bake chicken at 350 degrees for approximately 10 minutes or until thoroughly cooked.
3-Reheat oven to 425 degrees.
4-Pull out dough and make into a rectangular shape. The original directions say to lay floue on the counter or table before doing this...I used wax paper instead but I feel like flour would have been more beneficial here.
5-Cover dough with ranch and wing sauce. *NOTE: after we ate it I realized our personal tastes could have done with a little less wing sauce. It's all up to preference but when I make this again, I'll be using less.
6-Next you'll layer the chicken and cheese over the sauce.
7-Next you roll it-from one side to the other. I had to get D to hold the wax paper down while I rolled-since it was warm in the kitchen the dough was getting really soft so I had a bit of a hard time rolling...but I did it! Stick the roll on the sprayed cookie sheet.
8-Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes. Pull out and VOILA!
It was so EASY and so GOOD! It was the perfect size for me and D to eat so if you need bigger make bigger-it's a pretty flexible recipe. The only thing I would change is the amount of wing sauce. Other than that I suggest make this easy piece and eat away!
Happy cooking,
J
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
The Married Life-part III
HAPPY (belated) 2 YEARS TO MY BEST FRIEND, SWEET LOVER, AND WONDERFUL HUSBAND!
WE TRULY ARE A PAIR.
I LOVE YOU MADLY. <3
1/4 of a Century old
It's official. I am 25.
TWENTY. FIVE.
I have been for almost 2 weeks now (sorry about the late post!) and I still can't believe it. Time rushes on as you get older. I can still remember a lot about my childhood, teen years, and just a few years ago.
I'm not worried about dying or even aging really but one thing that really makes me sad is the thought of losing my memory...I cherish my memories so much that I never want to forget!
25-so far so good. I am excited about this year because:
1) I will complete graduate school, 2) I am starting year 3 of my marriage, 3) I may be moving to a different state (HUGE life change-more on that another time).
Lots to look forward to. Normally on this kind of post I'd talk about what I did for my birthday (dinners, cakes, gifts, family, friends) but I think I'll leave it be for now. I had a great time with the exception of 1 part but overall I thoroughly enjoyed it all and am super stoked about my future.
I AM TWENTY FIVE! 1/4 of a century old, approximately 1/3 of the way through with my life.
WHOA.
TWENTY. FIVE.
I have been for almost 2 weeks now (sorry about the late post!) and I still can't believe it. Time rushes on as you get older. I can still remember a lot about my childhood, teen years, and just a few years ago.
I'm not worried about dying or even aging really but one thing that really makes me sad is the thought of losing my memory...I cherish my memories so much that I never want to forget!
25-so far so good. I am excited about this year because:
1) I will complete graduate school, 2) I am starting year 3 of my marriage, 3) I may be moving to a different state (HUGE life change-more on that another time).
Lots to look forward to. Normally on this kind of post I'd talk about what I did for my birthday (dinners, cakes, gifts, family, friends) but I think I'll leave it be for now. I had a great time with the exception of 1 part but overall I thoroughly enjoyed it all and am super stoked about my future.
I AM TWENTY FIVE! 1/4 of a century old, approximately 1/3 of the way through with my life.
WHOA.
Saturday, May 5, 2012
My trip to California
Technically when I was around 1 years old my family took a vacation to California and Mexico. We swam in the ocean, went to Disneyland and spent a lot of time with friends and family...and I don't remember ANY of it. I've seen a few pictures but that's it!
So now, 24 years later, I was FINALLY able to go to California-a place I've always wanted to visit!
But our trip did not start off so great. First-we had to board Tucker. That may not seem like a big deal to some but Tucker is pretty much our fur baby and leaving him is always hard =( Any chance we get to take him somewhere we always do, even if it's just to my family's for the weekend! So he had to get an evaluation and they stated he was really shy and seemed anxious. They recommended that he come a few more times before we board (it's also a doggy day care) but with time running out we had to bite the bullet and board him there.... (Luckily, after we picked him up they said he warmed up a lot and seemed to have a good time over all. He did get extremely sick when we got hom and was for almost a week but we don't think it was the boarding as much as it was the food change and new bone he got)
Next we got a call right before we headed out the door early Wednesday that our flight got canceled! Due to severe storms and tornadoes in Dallas (our layover city and AA hub) we had to get a flight almost 12 hours later and in a completely different airport than planned (we were trying to land in Ontario, CA so Derrick's grandparents could pick us up but instead had to land in LAX-luckily Der's Aunt Patty was able to get us!) I was a bit motion sick but after getting some food (In N Out Burger) and some amazing hot tea,
we finally make it to Derrick's Uncle Mike and Aunt Patty's house to crash.
The next day we got to go exploring in El Segundo, California! This little place is located less than 10 minutes from LAX and only about 2 miles from the Pacific Ocean! I got to see the Pacific Ocean for the FIRST TIME! I teared up at seeing it-it's absolutely beautiful!
Next we went to grab som brunch at a local eatery right on the beach. We saw surfers coming in, lots of people playing volleyball, and even more people jogging or strolling along the coast. It was awesome!
After brunch we went exploring around the area for a bit, taking in the scenery and enjoying the weather (a wonderful 75ish degrees and sunny) before heading out to Reddlands, CA to visit the rest of the Raleys! They were all coming in for Easter weekend so we were lucky enough to see them all!
It was a great time getting to meet many of Derrick's family members, seeing where he gets some of his quirks and traits from. They were all SUPER nice, making it less stressful for me and I felt very relaxed with them. We mostly hung out, exploring Reddlands and the surrounding area with the family, getting grub and laughing back home.
Unfortunately it was a short visit because we had to head to San Diego, CA the next evening for my SSSA conference presentation. Derrick's dad Mark and grandfather David drove us to San Diego and said goodbye-it was bittersweet!
We checked into our room, perused the hotel, and then went to bed since I had a big day in the morning.
The next morning I got up and got ready for my SSSA presentation. I was to be presenting over work I've done with my GA professor regarding religiousness and spirituality as a way of coping for women with life sentences in prison. I go, check in, make it back to the conference room where I would present alongside 4 other speakers...only to find out that no one had come!! Only me and one other presenter ended up showing up...I won't lie...it was kind of disappointing. I mean, I realized there wouldn't be a lot of people because it was the last day of the conference, in the morning, on Easter weekend, but still...I was a bit bummed. Luckily, the other speaker was presenting on similar data so we just talked for about an hour about our work and the future needs for studies like ours.
After my "presentation" I headed back to the room and lo and behold our friend Patrick was there! He and his girlfriend Laina had driven to us from Los Angeles, CA to visit. We haven't seen Pat for over a year! We 4 packed into the rental car Patrick had and went to the San Diego Zoo for the day! Check out the pics below of some of the awesome things we were able to see! There were so many more pictures but here are a few for laughs and intrigue.
After the zoo we went back to the hotel to figure out food plans before Pat and Laina left. We walked along the bay and ended up settling for a little steak house there (although it was over priced and not that great considering...). We ate and said goodbye to Patrick and Laine then headed back to the room to re-pack and sleep.
We got up the next morning, got a cab to the airport, and once we got to Dallas we had another issue with delayed flights-apparently in the ENTIRE DFW airport all flights to Nashville and the surrounding areas had been cancelled! We were so frustrated by this happening again...we had to stand in line for approximately 2 hours to speak to someone who basically said there was no way we were leaving the airport and heading that way that night. GRRRRR!! So we had the choice of sleeping in the airport for free or we could obtain a discounted hotel voucher and stay somewhere else. Thankfully, since DFW is so huge, there were 2 hotels joined to the airport. We chose to stay in one of those (which ended up being SUPER nice considering) and went to the room to sleep. Normally this wouldn't be that big of a deal but since we were flying home on a Sunday and got delayed I had to: 1-call in to work using PTO and no pay time to cover for it, 2-pay to stay in a hotel when we hadn't budgeted for it (thank god I had money on my CC!) and 3-pay an extra day to board Tucker. Talk about aggravating! And the most frustrating part was that they said it was due to storms in the East but everyone I talked to in and around Nashville said they saw nothing but sunny skies and great weather... *SIGH* We had to get up at 5 am, catch a flight to North Carolina, then finally, headed back to Nashville. We picked up Tuck, made it home, and CRASHED.
It was a whirlwind of a trip! I can't wait to go back-it was too much fun outside of the stupid travel issues!
So now, 24 years later, I was FINALLY able to go to California-a place I've always wanted to visit!
But our trip did not start off so great. First-we had to board Tucker. That may not seem like a big deal to some but Tucker is pretty much our fur baby and leaving him is always hard =( Any chance we get to take him somewhere we always do, even if it's just to my family's for the weekend! So he had to get an evaluation and they stated he was really shy and seemed anxious. They recommended that he come a few more times before we board (it's also a doggy day care) but with time running out we had to bite the bullet and board him there.... (Luckily, after we picked him up they said he warmed up a lot and seemed to have a good time over all. He did get extremely sick when we got hom and was for almost a week but we don't think it was the boarding as much as it was the food change and new bone he got)
Next we got a call right before we headed out the door early Wednesday that our flight got canceled! Due to severe storms and tornadoes in Dallas (our layover city and AA hub) we had to get a flight almost 12 hours later and in a completely different airport than planned (we were trying to land in Ontario, CA so Derrick's grandparents could pick us up but instead had to land in LAX-luckily Der's Aunt Patty was able to get us!) I was a bit motion sick but after getting some food (In N Out Burger) and some amazing hot tea,
we finally make it to Derrick's Uncle Mike and Aunt Patty's house to crash.
The next day we got to go exploring in El Segundo, California! This little place is located less than 10 minutes from LAX and only about 2 miles from the Pacific Ocean! I got to see the Pacific Ocean for the FIRST TIME! I teared up at seeing it-it's absolutely beautiful!
Look at that water!
The sun was in our eyes, lol.
Next we went to grab som brunch at a local eatery right on the beach. We saw surfers coming in, lots of people playing volleyball, and even more people jogging or strolling along the coast. It was awesome!
After brunch we went exploring around the area for a bit, taking in the scenery and enjoying the weather (a wonderful 75ish degrees and sunny) before heading out to Reddlands, CA to visit the rest of the Raleys! They were all coming in for Easter weekend so we were lucky enough to see them all!
From L: Me, Der, Grandfather David, Mark (Der's dad), Michelle (Der's stepmom), Andy (the dog she's holding, Cole (Der's half brother, in blue), Grandmother Diane, Guy (Der's other half brother, in front of me), Whisper (black dog) and Saddie (cream dog).
It was a great time getting to meet many of Derrick's family members, seeing where he gets some of his quirks and traits from. They were all SUPER nice, making it less stressful for me and I felt very relaxed with them. We mostly hung out, exploring Reddlands and the surrounding area with the family, getting grub and laughing back home.
This was a coffee shop/diner that serves fresh hot apple pies. They used apples straight from California vineyards!
Unfortunately it was a short visit because we had to head to San Diego, CA the next evening for my SSSA conference presentation. Derrick's dad Mark and grandfather David drove us to San Diego and said goodbye-it was bittersweet!
We checked into our room, perused the hotel, and then went to bed since I had a big day in the morning.
The next morning I got up and got ready for my SSSA presentation. I was to be presenting over work I've done with my GA professor regarding religiousness and spirituality as a way of coping for women with life sentences in prison. I go, check in, make it back to the conference room where I would present alongside 4 other speakers...only to find out that no one had come!! Only me and one other presenter ended up showing up...I won't lie...it was kind of disappointing. I mean, I realized there wouldn't be a lot of people because it was the last day of the conference, in the morning, on Easter weekend, but still...I was a bit bummed. Luckily, the other speaker was presenting on similar data so we just talked for about an hour about our work and the future needs for studies like ours.
After my "presentation" I headed back to the room and lo and behold our friend Patrick was there! He and his girlfriend Laina had driven to us from Los Angeles, CA to visit. We haven't seen Pat for over a year! We 4 packed into the rental car Patrick had and went to the San Diego Zoo for the day! Check out the pics below of some of the awesome things we were able to see! There were so many more pictures but here are a few for laughs and intrigue.
Pat (L) and Der (R) being silly at one of the children's exhibits.
FLAMINGOS!!
A sweet giraffe that looks like it's a out to fall!
Baby monkey
Hungry panda
Patrick and Laina
Me and Der at the waterfall in the bird terrarium.
After the zoo we went back to the hotel to figure out food plans before Pat and Laina left. We walked along the bay and ended up settling for a little steak house there (although it was over priced and not that great considering...). We ate and said goodbye to Patrick and Laine then headed back to the room to re-pack and sleep.
Der at the San Diego Bay.
The Bay at sunset <3
We got up the next morning, got a cab to the airport, and once we got to Dallas we had another issue with delayed flights-apparently in the ENTIRE DFW airport all flights to Nashville and the surrounding areas had been cancelled! We were so frustrated by this happening again...we had to stand in line for approximately 2 hours to speak to someone who basically said there was no way we were leaving the airport and heading that way that night. GRRRRR!! So we had the choice of sleeping in the airport for free or we could obtain a discounted hotel voucher and stay somewhere else. Thankfully, since DFW is so huge, there were 2 hotels joined to the airport. We chose to stay in one of those (which ended up being SUPER nice considering) and went to the room to sleep. Normally this wouldn't be that big of a deal but since we were flying home on a Sunday and got delayed I had to: 1-call in to work using PTO and no pay time to cover for it, 2-pay to stay in a hotel when we hadn't budgeted for it (thank god I had money on my CC!) and 3-pay an extra day to board Tucker. Talk about aggravating! And the most frustrating part was that they said it was due to storms in the East but everyone I talked to in and around Nashville said they saw nothing but sunny skies and great weather... *SIGH* We had to get up at 5 am, catch a flight to North Carolina, then finally, headed back to Nashville. We picked up Tuck, made it home, and CRASHED.
It was a whirlwind of a trip! I can't wait to go back-it was too much fun outside of the stupid travel issues!
Forgiveness, please!
Hello my dear blog friends! I know I've got a few blogs to catch you up on but please forgive me because...
I'M IN HAWAII!!!!!!!
When I get home I'll update you on my Cali trip, my 25th birthday, and this amazing trip!!
I can already tell it's going to be amazing!
I'M IN HAWAII!!!!!!!
When I get home I'll update you on my Cali trip, my 25th birthday, and this amazing trip!!
I can already tell it's going to be amazing!
Monday, April 16, 2012
Cali on hold
I have NOT forgotten to update you all on the wild and fun trip we took to California! I'm just swamped with catching everything up right now but I promise I'll give ya the goods soon!
Sunday, April 1, 2012
RAoK Wednesday
If you checked out this blog you'll know that it (was) Random Acts of Kindness Wednesday!
Obviously, it's past Wednesday...but since the person I'm doing the act for has been out at work all week, I did it today so when she comes in this week she'll get it =]
Obviously, it's past Wednesday...but since the person I'm doing the act for has been out at work all week, I did it today so when she comes in this week she'll get it =]
My friend Kristy is going through a lot right now with family/health matters. So I decided to get her a little basket (not originally for Easter but hey-it works) with a few things that I know she likes. It's got some cute nail polish, a candle, a card, and (of course) her favorite candy ever.
It's not much but maybe when she comes in next, whenever that may be, it will help her for even just 1 minute forget her woes and stress and know that she is SO loved by her co-worker/friend.
Share the love! Remember-a random act is for a stranger or someone you know-do something ordinary to make someone's day EXTRAORDINARY! <3
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Summah Time
I'm SO freakin' stoked about this summer. So much is going on and I have wonderful plans for it!
It's not just the break from school, the pool side enjoyment, and the late hazy evenings. It's the Fourth of July, the melting ice cream cones, and the flip flops as well! The summer holds so many wonderful memories for me. It reminds me of Mary's lake house, outdoor theater, sunburns, the public pool, walking in downtown Chattanooga,
I've got plans for this summer. I'm starting my summer a little early (the official first day of summer is June 20th) this year in May.
In May I will:
-Celebrate my 25th birthday
-Celebrate my 2 year wedding anniversary with Derrick <3
-Take a week long trip with Derrick to Hawaii to visit my best friend Destiny
-Take a course on Serial Killers for school
In June I will:
-Input and analyze my thesis data
-Start and complete levels 1 and 2 of the French Rosetta Stone
-Start volunteer work at the Domestic Violence Center of Rutherford County
In July I will:
-Celebrate the 4th of July
-Revise and work on rewrites for my thesis
-Start and complete levels 3 and 4 of the French Rosetta Stone
-Continue volunteer work
In August I will:
-Take a family trip to Universal Studios
-Start and complete level 5 (the last) of the French Rosetta Stone
-Complete volunteer work towards the end of the month
-Start (what will hopefully be) my last semester of Graduate School
These are the big details of my summer! I can't WAIT to start them all!
It's not just the break from school, the pool side enjoyment, and the late hazy evenings. It's the Fourth of July, the melting ice cream cones, and the flip flops as well! The summer holds so many wonderful memories for me. It reminds me of Mary's lake house, outdoor theater, sunburns, the public pool, walking in downtown Chattanooga,
I've got plans for this summer. I'm starting my summer a little early (the official first day of summer is June 20th) this year in May.
In May I will:
-Celebrate my 25th birthday
-Celebrate my 2 year wedding anniversary with Derrick <3
-Take a week long trip with Derrick to Hawaii to visit my best friend Destiny
-Take a course on Serial Killers for school
In June I will:
-Input and analyze my thesis data
-Start and complete levels 1 and 2 of the French Rosetta Stone
-Start volunteer work at the Domestic Violence Center of Rutherford County
In July I will:
-Celebrate the 4th of July
-Revise and work on rewrites for my thesis
-Start and complete levels 3 and 4 of the French Rosetta Stone
-Continue volunteer work
In August I will:
-Take a family trip to Universal Studios
-Start and complete level 5 (the last) of the French Rosetta Stone
-Complete volunteer work towards the end of the month
-Start (what will hopefully be) my last semester of Graduate School
These are the big details of my summer! I can't WAIT to start them all!
What are you looking forward to regarding the upcoming summer months?!
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Random Acts of Kindness Wednesdays
Happy Hump Day everyone! I hope the week has been treating you well thus far.
I am trying something new with my blog today-I am hoping to start Random Acts of Kindness Wednesdays.
I've wanted to do a weekly thing for a while but since I hardly got a bite when I did the giveaway and when trying to do another had the donor back out, I opted for something different.
I'm trying to get my blog seen by more people (Luckily Traci P. is helping me sort out the re-vamping of my blog) so maybe a weekly something can help...we shall see.
So-what is a random act of kindness? ANYTHING! It can be sending your mother flowers just because, it can be buying the coffee of the person behind you, it can be mailing acard to a random address just to say hello and offer words of encouragement, and it can be doing charity work by offering YOUR time and YOUR money to someone else in need. It is literally a random act where you put yourself and your needs aside and do something sincerely nice and decent for someone else.
I want to make Wednesdays the main day to do the random act but if I do something (or see something) before or after then Wednesday will be the day I report on it. =]
Today I am not doing the act but reporting on my future act. I randomly bought my brother a CD (Prokofiev's Peter and the Wolf) because I remember my mom telling me how much he liked the music. I also randomly bought my mother a jigsaw puzzle. This seems kind of silly but I remember her doing puzzles ALL OF THE TIME when I was a kid and wonder if she misses doing them (I'm suspecting she's slacked on them because she has 2 cats who would LOVE to play with/eat the pieces...). My mom will be coming up on Saturday so I plan on giving her these little "just because" tokens of love. There is nothing better than doing something for someone because you genuinely care about their happiness over yours.
So there it is! My random act for the week. I hope this sparks you to do more for others, to realize our life is comprised of others so they too need to be treated with decency and respect and maybe...just maybe you will really bring someone out of a bad day just by being you.
Now go out and do something good for the people of this world!
Happy Spring,
JeR
I am trying something new with my blog today-I am hoping to start Random Acts of Kindness Wednesdays.
I've wanted to do a weekly thing for a while but since I hardly got a bite when I did the giveaway and when trying to do another had the donor back out, I opted for something different.
I'm trying to get my blog seen by more people (Luckily Traci P. is helping me sort out the re-vamping of my blog) so maybe a weekly something can help...we shall see.
So-what is a random act of kindness? ANYTHING! It can be sending your mother flowers just because, it can be buying the coffee of the person behind you, it can be mailing acard to a random address just to say hello and offer words of encouragement, and it can be doing charity work by offering YOUR time and YOUR money to someone else in need. It is literally a random act where you put yourself and your needs aside and do something sincerely nice and decent for someone else.
I want to make Wednesdays the main day to do the random act but if I do something (or see something) before or after then Wednesday will be the day I report on it. =]
Today I am not doing the act but reporting on my future act. I randomly bought my brother a CD (Prokofiev's Peter and the Wolf) because I remember my mom telling me how much he liked the music. I also randomly bought my mother a jigsaw puzzle. This seems kind of silly but I remember her doing puzzles ALL OF THE TIME when I was a kid and wonder if she misses doing them (I'm suspecting she's slacked on them because she has 2 cats who would LOVE to play with/eat the pieces...). My mom will be coming up on Saturday so I plan on giving her these little "just because" tokens of love. There is nothing better than doing something for someone because you genuinely care about their happiness over yours.
So there it is! My random act for the week. I hope this sparks you to do more for others, to realize our life is comprised of others so they too need to be treated with decency and respect and maybe...just maybe you will really bring someone out of a bad day just by being you.
Now go out and do something good for the people of this world!
Happy Spring,
JeR
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Style Inspiration
I've never really had a certain style. I like all genres of clothing. I have no particular preference of any either. So naturally my closet and drawers are a mix/match of various designs, lines, colors, and trends.
But I've been trying to hone in on a few more professional pieces and looks for future employment. And I've found women who I just ADORE in their style choices. They are some of my inspiration! Check out 4 of my favorite style inspirations.
1. Sarah Jessica Parker-not only do I love her confidence as both a mother and an actress but I L-O-V-E her style. SJP and her most popular character, Carrie Bradshaw from Sex and the City, are closely tied with style and fashion. What was also pretty cool was that SJP was able to help in shaping Carrie's personal style and SJP was able to keep the entirety of the SATC Carrie closet after production! Whether or not you love the show or the women, you've got to admit that the fashion was fierce. But one awesome thing about SJP is her unique way in which she blends the classic with the modern.
But I've been trying to hone in on a few more professional pieces and looks for future employment. And I've found women who I just ADORE in their style choices. They are some of my inspiration! Check out 4 of my favorite style inspirations.
1. Sarah Jessica Parker-not only do I love her confidence as both a mother and an actress but I L-O-V-E her style. SJP and her most popular character, Carrie Bradshaw from Sex and the City, are closely tied with style and fashion. What was also pretty cool was that SJP was able to help in shaping Carrie's personal style and SJP was able to keep the entirety of the SATC Carrie closet after production! Whether or not you love the show or the women, you've got to admit that the fashion was fierce. But one awesome thing about SJP is her unique way in which she blends the classic with the modern.
Just look at this Alexander McQueen dress from 2010. Simple elegant shape but with a wonderful funky color and pattern. I LOVE it.
Below are some Carrie style choices that are also pretty amazing and SJP pulls them off flawlessly.
I just love the awesome textures, pops of pattern, and boldness of these 3 looks. Very unique but pretty wonderful. Although SJP has shown a lot of Carrie flare post SATC, she is also known for a more laid back style and line.
The versatility and simplistic looks she has are impeccable and I want to draw more inspiration from her in her confidence in style choices and colors.
How does one get looks like SJP/Carrie? ACCESSORIZE! Flair for accessories is what both SJP and Carrie are known for. Quirky hair pieces, bold detailing, and sassy shoes are what make a SJP outfit.
2-Kate Middleton-the Duchess of England has definitely evolved into some amazingly classic and understated pieces making her looks timeless and elegant. Known for her dresses Kate purposefully seems to blend colors that match her to a T and lines that work with her toned and slim physique.
Notice the simple shape and the muted gray/blue tones in both the jacket and shoes. Classic and chic.
Here we have subtle detail and elegance. Again she goes with a muted tone seemingly both proper and respectful for the benefit she is attending. I ADORE this dress for its line and strap/bead-work detail.
These 2 looks below show the chic and casual Kate that is not often focused on although they both still pull together grace and modernity.
She gets bold with patterns here and pops of color making these looks modern and a bit more playful.
This last look shows again muted tones but a flirty shape and pattern while Kate attends a Polo match.
How do you dress like Kate? DRESSES, DRESSES, AND MORE DRESSES! Once you find a line that works with your shape (Kate's seems to be mid to quarter length sleeve jacket layered over a cinched waist in knee length) in toned down colors, find accessories that match and bring simplicity and class to each look. Set with a basic curl to the ends of your hair and you've got a Kate-inspired look. If you really want to make the look perfect, find a hat that is a bit bold in shape but matches the tone of your colors.
3. Nicole Richie-having come from a famous family and a wild background the mother of 2 and fashion designer has a style with a bohemian flair and relaxed chic look. She brings this casualness into the spotlight although she's not afraid to bring some glam and sparkle either.
Known for the maxi dress Nicole brings a great drapery line that is both comfortable and flattering to her petite physique. A maxi dress automatically provokes thoughts of whimsical summers and walks on the beach. Matches with a great gladiator sandal and simple hand-bands easily complete this look.
The dress above shows Richie's glam rocker side. A great silhouette along with some edgy coloring and cuts definitely add a touch of pizzazz to the more known boho-chic lady.
Below we see the characteristic layering technique Richie is iconic for.
These looks demonstrate a great way to layer pieces, mix textures, and combine colors that work for a laid-back and pulled together look for any women.
How do you achieve these Nicole Richie looks? Think beach + Dylan + Hepburn. Utilize Headbands, loose braids, and subtle vintage eyeliner to complete your boho look.
4. Marilyn Monroe-last but certainly not least, MM has always held a special place in my heart for her brazenness and her beauty. Her curves have helped a multitude of women embrace their shape and opt out of the pencil thin ideal of style and beauty. Marilyn used her curves to her advantage both in her professional and personal life although that life was short-lived with her unexpected death. Her legacy lives on through revamps in fashion and trends in today's style. One unfortunate thing about MM's style is that most seem to think of her style in the Gentlemen Prefer Blondes get up or the Seven Year Itch dress. One of the most tragic things about MM is that people equated her to her roles instead of separating the two, an unfortunate mishap that sometimes happens with actors. So here, I want to discuss her owns style, not her characters.
This dress embodies everything MM. Curves, a soft glow, and sparkle. This dress was worn when she sang "Happy Birthday Mr. President" to JFK. Iconic as it is it also envelopes sex appeal and luxury.
Below we see the classic black-and-white casual outfit. These colors are classics which can be paired with anything to make it more modern or toned down to keep the vintage flair MM had. It's a simple three quarter length sweater with some white pedal pushers. Both comfy enough to lounge around in or run some errands in.
This last look shown above is from an award show. She brings about her sexiness in this strapless gown along with a touch of class with her fur drape and silk gloves.
So how do you dress like Marilyn Monroe? You use your femininity and confidence as a women. No MM look is complete without platinum blonde curls, figure hugging pieces, and a knockout smile. Also make sure you bring some confidence and red lips and you've got it made!
So that's it! My inspirations, my fashion muses. I've got more but these are probably my favorites right now.
Do you have anyone who inspires your fashion sense or personal style?
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