Life has many ways of slapping us in the face and saying, "Wake Up!"

Changes...

2011-10-02T21:41:00.002-06:00

Life has had some interesting twists over the last several months. I have been wanting to blog about them for quite a while but have not had any luck with forming the sentences, let alone the words where to begin from.

I hope to be able to use this blog again as a tool to vent and seek advice. I miss reading comments to things that I have written. So look forward to an update or several over the next several weeks as I find the time. :)

Checking In With Myself

2010-09-23T09:19:00.002-06:00

Busy busy busy busy...

Need I say more? lol. This semester has proven to be more of a challenge than I had originally expected. I really didn't expect to be so busy with so many different things. I'm working on adjusting my schedule from "night owl" to "early bird," I'm attempting to work one on one with clients fresh out of the books I have studied for so many years of schooling, I'm working on having time to spend with family and friends for the social aspect of my life, I'm also working on increasing awareness of my self-care.

I'm finally getting the hang of getting up in the mornings. Between my internship having me up and in the office or with clients by 8 or 9 sometimes and my classes on Thursdays having me up by around 6 so I can get parking and walk to class, I'm doing fairly well at being up every morning. I've even taken it upon myself to not sleep in on the weekends! It's a lot easier for me to wake up in the mornings, get breakfast, and go about my day monitoring myself. If I'm tired, I'll take 30 minutes out of my day and take a nap and rest.

My internship has taken an interesting turn that I wasn't really expecting this early in the semester. I have been doing some one-on-one with clients as well as shadowing and observation. The one-on-one took me by surprise as I didn't feel I was going to be doing it until next semester or further along in this semester. I know I have the resources to handle it, but I do kind of feel like I've been thrown out of the books I've been reading for classes straight into life-action social work. It's very different in a lot of ways, yet not so different when comparing it to helping a friend or neighbor who is struggling in life. However, I'm not having too many issues with keeping my personal-self and professional-self separated.

I've noticed that I have been so busy with school and taking care of the apartment that I haven't had as much time with family and friends. I started noticing this toward the middle of this week, actually. Since then I've been attempting to utilize my phone and texting capabilities. Although these methods can be much less personal than face-to-face, I find it's been helping me feel more connected to those that I love and have been missing.

My self care plays in to a lot of things in my life right now. I have always been a firm believer in taking care of myself and minimizing stress when I'm combated by stressors in life. Ask anyone who knows me fairly well, I take pride in taking the time to research my health, ways to better it, and ways to cope with everyday situations and overwhelming ones. I've been known to give un-official "prescriptions" to friends and family when they have problems with everyday life...everything from common cold, sinuses, increasing self-esteem, taking care of pets and making sure they're not eating name brand garbage food (big pet peeve--every pun intended), and more!

I've noticed that I have become a "go to" person in my family and with some of my friends. I don't mind at all, so long as they remember I'm not a doctor and don't take liability for adverse reactions to suggestions I give. lol. I've been asked to start a blog (by quite a few individuals) on "personal medical remedies" that I utilize on a daily basis as well as when I get common colds as well as other afflictions. When I don't have an answer I'll usually take the time to look things up in journal articles via google scholar and ISU's ebsco database. I have a lot of resources, so I don't really see any point in not utilizing them for my own personal well being. So, I'm thinking about doing a new blog (I won't put those on here as this is my personal blog for venting and self-care lol). Other thoughts and opinions? Please, share! :)

That's all for now...my head has decided to become too distracted to write more at the moment. lol. I'll write again soon. :)

A Much Needed Kick in the @$$!

2010-08-26T21:57:00.004-06:00

Current Mood: Relieved, Recharged, Ready, Determined, and so much more...

After my last blog post I decided to take the dogs for a walk and talk to a friend that I've been having quite a few "on and off" problems with. I think our conversation went well for the most part but it left me thinking about things that I'd like to vent and rant about a bit to get my thoughts sorted.

We never seem to be able to land on the same page when it comes to friendship, what it means to be a friend, and how friends "should" act. I say "should" because I hate the word. It implies that something has a set way of being and that there are no other right ways for it. The world is nothing but a gray area...there really is no one or two ways that are correct or incorrect for everyone. Therefore, adjustments, tweaks, additions, and deletions are required to make things fit for each person.

My personal viewpoints on friendship vary, for the most part, from person to person because we're all different and we all bring different things to a friendship. However, I have come to the realization that one thing has remained fairly constant in all of my working relationships: there are no expectations. Another way to put this is we don't feel our friendship should be a certain way...we just go with the flow and live our lives day after day and tackle things as they come. They're not structured or planned out to be a certain way. When we're not around each other often, we tend to keep moving on until we do meet again...and when we do it's as if we never parted. They take little to no real work in order for them to work.

Yes, I'm ranting a little bit and trying to sort my thoughts about this matter. Any friendships that I have seen that have "set in stone" expectations and/or assumptions with how the friendship ought to be have never lasted. If you go into a friendship thinking it's going to be a certain way...what's the point? I feel you would just be setting yourself up for disappointment if things don't go exactly as you pictured them. Thoughts/opinions? I would love to carry on a discussion about it.
_____________________________________________________________
In other news, when I returned from my walk and talk I had an e-mail waiting for me from my last Spanish 101 instructor. I think he gave me the kick in the ass I have been needing to pull myself out of depression. I have been panicking over this Spanish thing way too much since the correspondence course overwhelmed me. I'm going to disenroll from it officially and take a step back to re-evaluate what I really know and what I really need help with.

The good news is, I'm no longer panicking. The bad news is, I'm not going to be graduating this semester as I had planned. I think I just need to stop setting a date to be graduated and just keep telling myself and everyone else that I will be finished when I'm finished. I'm tired of the letdowns and re-explaining to people that I'm not graduating this semester after all (as I have done in the recent past). Sure, it's taken me a bit longer than expected to graduate, but I also realize I've taken a few classes outside of the social work requirements (ASL Interpretation and a few others) just because I wanted to learn more about those things.

I enrolled in school for the opportunity to learn...not just the opportunity to have a better paying job. I think I forgot that somewhere.

So, tomorrow I'm going to sit down and disenroll from the second portion of my practicum and see what happens. I may have to take an extra class or two for credit but I will tackle that in the morning and see where it gets me. I need to re-evaluate things and get my game plan back in order so I don't lose track of things again.

So...to all those curious...I'll graduate when I graduate. Besides, I planned on continuing my education after graduation...so does it really matter?
____________________________________

"Surround yourself only with people who are going to lift you higher."

"If I had one gift that I could give you, my friend, it would be the ability to see yourself as others see you, because only then would you know how extremely special you are."
~B.A. Billingsly~

“The best kind of friend is the kind you can sit on a porch and swing with, never say a word, and then walk away feeling like it was the best conversation you've ever had.” ~Unknown~

"It takes years to build up trust, and just seconds to destroy it." ~Source Unknown~

“Good friends are like stars.... You don't always see them, but you know they are always there”

“The most beautiful discovery true friends make is that they can grow separately without growing apart.”

Vent 2 (Topic 1: School)

2010-08-26T18:16:00.004-06:00

Current Mood: Blah, Depressed, Slightly Negative, Tired, Slightly Determined.

I can't shake this depressed feeling to save my life lately. I seem to be doing a decent job at putting up a front that I'm happy as a clown and I'm okay since no one really seems to notice. I don't know if that's a good thing or a bad thing. Likely a good thing for now while I try to un-jumble the mess that is my thoughts.

Had my first day of classes today. I find it a bit comforting to know that they gear your last two social work classes a bit differently than your first ones. I guess with an internship and classes they figure we will have enough on our plates (and they're right).

As far as internship placements I thought I had everything figured out. I had my interview at my first option and pretty much have the position if I want it. The only bad thing is that I really can't ignore the feeling that it isn't a good fit. Talking with my adviser about it and we both concluded it wasn't a good fit based on my concerns. Scratch out choice one.

Choice two was the company I completed my junior and group-work internships. I loved being there and shadowing and can definitely see myself working there. However, they have some issues on their end this semester and don't believe they have the time to devote to an intern at this time. Scratch out choice two.

I spent some time last night, when I likely should have been sleeping, looking up other possible ideas for interns and found a couple. I was going to make those phone calls today, but ended up passing out on the couch unexpectedly for a few hours. I guess I'll be making those phone calls tomorrow. Maybe that's a good thing...it gives me more time and a better chance at pulling out of this dank mood I seem to be wallowing in.

Some progress has been made, however. I finally made my adviser completely aware of my situation and feelings surrounding the foreign language issue. He wants me to come in and talk to him tomorrow and asked that I also talk to someone in the foreign language department. I sent off the e-mails today. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that I can find something that will work out for all of us. One of my classmates even mentioned that she went to her family doctor and got a note to get a waiver for the class because she was in the same boat that I seem to be in. I just feel like I'm wasting my time re-taking a class 2 or 3 times in order to be able to understand it and get through the last class I need...doesn't seem right when it doesn't seem to take too many other students that long to pass it...

I'm trying to keep my head up in general but am running out of that positive thought-pattern I seem to be known for. Maybe a night out this weekend will help recharge me a bit...I just feel so drained this week.

I'm hoping to get my head put back together soon...there's so many other things I would like to write about, but it's hard to put them in order when my brain is so scrambled. Hoping things start falling into place soon.

Till later...

Me

Vent 1 (Topic 1: Subtopic: Spanish)

2010-08-25T20:19:00.003-06:00

Current Mood: Drained, Hopeless, Lost, Out of Ideas.

I've realized that I haven't blogged/wrote anything in a while...okay, I'll be dead honest...I haven't written anything in way too long. I find that it's starting to pile up on me and bog me down a bit. I doubt it's the actual lack of writing that is bogging me down, but the inability to express myself completely when I really need to (at no fault of anyone's).

I start my first classes tomorrow and I have to be dead honest...I have very mixed feelings about them. This is supposed to be my last semester (or second to last if I decide to split my practicum up over two semesters rather than cram 400 hours into 15 weeks). However, as frustrating as it is...I feel that may not even be able to graduate after my practicum and classes are completed. The one thing holding me back is the foreign language credit that we're obligated to fulfill. I say "obligated" very lightly as I feel nothing wrong with having to learn a second language (or begin learning since language is a never-ending process). My only issue is the school standards for foreign languages.

Long story short on why this is such an issue for me: I took Spanish 101 at ISU with a couple of friends a few semesters ago. I passed...by the tips of my nails...literally. After waiting a couple ore semesters I decided it was time to try again since I was in a different point in my life. I passed with all of my fingernails intact (fingers and toes, too, for that matter). I took that class with Jen and had a much easier time by teaching her and her teaching me outside of classes and through texting. Now that I don't have my spanish study buddy anymore I've had a difficult time keeping up with what I already learned the second time around in Spanish 101.

On top of all of this...they say it's not a good idea to take a break between Spanish 101 and Spanish 102 (yes, we are required a full year of foreign languages for the credit). I didn't know what I would be doing over the summer so I didn't want to enroll in a class on campus for fear of travels taking me away from my schooling. I enrolled at the University of North Carolina for a correspondence course. Registered, paid for, and book bought...and the book is WAY different/advanced than the book I learned out of in Spanish 101. I thought I didn't know much about Spanish before...this book would have been ten times worse to learn out of for me...all in all, I have no idea what to do now...

The worst part is...I have taken a full year of American Sign Language at ISU. However, they don't classify it as a "foreign language." The thing that sucks is if I would have taken the ASL classes at College of Southern Idaho (about 2.5 hours from where I live) the credit would have transferred over as a foreign language. So not fair...(yes, I'm whining).

Well, this is just the first installment...I better get back to the truck since my pups are waiting for their walk...I needed to unload a little bit...

Till later...

Me

From Talk to Action to Bonsai and Dinner

2009-07-21T21:13:00.000-06:00

Current mood:Nerd
The last two days have been fairly productive. I've been dying to dig my claws into Andiy's apartment and have told her a thousand times or more that we were going to do some cleaning and re-arranging. Ah...the life of a full-time college student...so easy to let household chores be "forgotten" about (lol). Finally, after weeks and months of talking about it and mentioning it in passing, my claws have officially started digging.

Yesterday we were able to finish 3/4 of her living room and about 1/2 of the kitchen (I say half because, well let's be real here...what kitchen is ever really finished?). Today we were able to finish up the living room and her dining area (minus a few boxes that I found to be mine from when I lived there). Now, after all of that hard work, I'm kicking myself in the ass for not taking before and after pictures. Perhaps I'll actually remember to do so when we get to the hallway, bathroom, and bedrooms (lol). With my memory...who knows, eh?

After cleaning we headed over to the Christelow's lovely home for a fine glass of wine (once I was re-hydrated enough to drink one) and even finer conversation. I really do enjoy going over there. It's very relaxing, welcoming, and intellectually stimulating. I find myself learning new things every time we converse. I miss that in my life. Not to mention, good old fashioned "hang out" time is always a good thing to have to fight the blues away, in my opinion.

One of our side-main reasons for stopping by there again this evening involves my green thumb. I'm attempting to save a little Bonsai tree. I've since googled Bonsai trees, as I didn't know what kind he was (yes, I feel the tree has a male soul). I've since learned that he is a Dwarf Juniper Bonsai. I'm hoping it's not too late to bring him back from his shock. I believe 3/4 of his foliage is dead (very crispy to the touch). However, he is still soft on the roots and on the main trunk. So, I'm going to keep my fingers crossed and hope for the best.

On the way home Andiy and I reminisced on what we should have for dinner. We both agreed it was too hot for any meal that was equal to or more than the temperature outside. We also agreed that an actual "meal" seemed a little over the top for this evening. I was in major "snack attack" mode. Needing finger foods, but with taste and that little something extra that only Andiy seems to be able to provide in the kitchen so far. Then again, with all of the array of foods she's eaten and knows how to make, I'm not surprised. She definitely has hit the spot. :) You'll have to ask her exactly what's in it (lol).

I just know it's damn yummy!

And I would say that Icarus approves as well. Then again...after that taste of Lambick foam...he could be a bit out of his own head at the moment (lol). Crazy bird...

BBQ With My Other Family

2009-07-06T11:03:00.000-06:00

Current mood:Better
Yes, another blog (lol). If you haven't been able to tell, I'm trying to get back into blogging some. I find that it still brings me some relief of tension when I type things out...even if it's meaningless rambling .

Last night I had a lot of fun. Jim and I were invited out to his old boss's house for a BBQ. I'm thinking, "Great! I'll get to have some great fun with my wonderful husband and some awesome friends that I easily consider family!" Besides being able to spend time with Jim in a setting other than home (which I feel is most important), I went for several reasons...

1. I seem to be having trouble putting my phone away when it comes to people texting me incessantly (yes I've noticed). It's not really because they're texting me...it's more that I use my phone as more than just a way to communicate with people. I constantly use it to take pictures and video of things. Well, when I do...if I see that I've recieved a text, I automatically check on it and reply. Now I find myself wondering when my phone became a tool so everyone else can get a hold of me on the spot instead of my tool for using when I need to. It's not fair to me and it's not fair to those I spend time with if I'm always on my phone with someone else. It has to stop.

2. Kenyon would be there. Kenyon is my friend that I've mentioned a lot lately due to the fact that he's leaving for the Army in less than 2 weeks. Hanging out with Kenyon has always been a great stress relief for me from the moment I met him. He's not your average, everday Joe Blow from down the block (though he'll swear up and down that there's nothing special about him). He's basically my break from all the normal dramas that life tends to send my way. He lives in the "Now" of time, not really worrying too much about things that have happened in the past or will happen in the future (no more than he needs to, anyway), and is always up for and willing to have fun all the time. What's life without having a party and enjoying it some? He's my reminder for not sweating the small shit and it's all small shit.

3. I've missed Sam and Laura like crazy (Sam is Jim's old boss, Laura is his wife who was my awesome bus driver in high school...yes it's a small world). Those two are amazing, point blank and simple. They have a love for animals that easily equals my own. With 5 dogs, a new baby goat, and a blue and gold macaw with an attitude, they're definitely people I can relate to . I always have fun at their house. It's tucked away at the base of a mountain, trees all around, no cell phone service, and a 4 legged or winged friend at your side every step of the way (especially when I bring Scout and Ty Ty). It's a little piece of heaven that I've decided will be my "Kenyon substitute" for lack of a better explanation. Anytime I feel that need to just get away from everyone and everything I'll make my way up there and likely won't come down until my head's back on straight. Much thanks to Sam for allowing me to come up whenever I wish. It's more appreciated than he knows.

I've missed having that much fun in a place where no one can find me. We were able to have a couple of drinks, eat great food (again thanks to Sam), and have some good fun with friends. I love get-togethers like that and hope to have more real soon.

I will say one thing...meeting Bob the macaw really makes me want my newest baby home. I have a sweet bird who's half paid for waiting to be picked up at McKee's. If anyone is planning on getting me a gift...do me a favor? If it costs money, just put it in my fund for getting my bird outta jail. I really want to bring him home before the weather gets too cold (lol).

Anyway, well, that was my night last night. Comments wanted and welcome.

A Few Weeks of Emotional Barrier Testing

2009-07-05T16:27:00.001-06:00

Current mood:Tested
I'm trying to decide how things are going to be in the next couple of weeks. Taking things one day and step at a time is proving very challenging when I know the big things I'll be faced with in the next couple of weeks:

1. Jim leaves out for work on Tuesday morning.
2. Best friend will be leaving out for the military.
3. Helping another friend move and settle into his own apartment (and with that comes cleaning up the spare bedroom and making it available to guests and Krysten when she stays).
4. Mentor is coming into town for little over a week.
5. Jim gets back from work (yay!).
6. Getting pierced on the day my best friend leaves Boise for Boot Camp.
7. Getting tattooed on my birthday.

Just to list a few things that have me attempting to keep that wall surrounding my emotions standing firm and in place (hard to do since it's crumbled recently and I'm still attempting to strengthen it back up again).

I'm hoping between music, hiking, rum, and some good times with friends while they're still here will be enough to keep me from cracking and breaking down too much. There's time for tears later...I want to enjoy things while they last. I won't lie, though, it's definitely going to be a lot and hard to handle. I'll survive, though...I always do, right?

Anyway, just a forewarning to all...if you see me looking like I'm about to cry...you'll know why (lol). Until then, I'll keeping finding and forcing myself to look at the brighter sides of it all.

What do stress, helping, sugar, and pms all have in common? Well...

2009-06-29T00:21:00.000-06:00

Current mood:Nerd

I'm not really too sure where I should even begin this blog. I've been so high-strung lately that it's a bit ridiculous. Stress is not my friend unless it's good stress (i.e. choir concert or some other event to happily look forward to). Unfortunately, the stress I've been undergoing is of the other type...the kind that just makes you want to ball up in a corner, under a rock, in a deep dark cave, and tug at your hair while bawling like an infant and throwing a temper tantrum all at once. Yes, that's about the size of the emotional roller coaster I've been on.

I have a friend who I have been helping a lot over the past year. It began online through the online game we play, World of Warcraft, and has grown to real life proportions since he moved to Idaho. As you all know, I'm the kind of girl who loves to help people. It's one of the main and many reasons I'm directing my career (whatever it may be in the end once it's fully developed) toward aiding individuals. I'm a sucker for someone in need who seemingly has "no way out" of their current, shitty, and obviously unhealthy living situation. I took it upon myself and my husband to take him under-wing, so to speak, and give him a new life in a completely different environment where his past would not be able to follow (unless he wished it to).

Yes, it's been a struggle. However, I would do it again (though maybe differently). I won't get into all of the details of this roller coaster as it does impede on his privacy and I'm not that kind of person. It's been on my mind, though, and I wanted to mention it somehow and get it off of my chest (though I'm not saying much in the written word, I will say that there's plenty of paragraphs found between the lines).

I was able to work on the house a bit today after enjoying some much-needed time away from home and everyone in general (thanks once again to Kenyon for allowing me to invade his space and Rum bottle). I always come back very refreshed and mind-renewed when I go on those little excursions. Kenyon's definitely a breath of fresh air when days start to flat-line into one another. Many thanks to a dear best friend.

I've had a bit of a "come to Jesus" today which, mixed with the PMS I just happen to be experiencing, bit me in the ass and told me that it's time to stop beating around the bush with everything and to just say what needs to be said outright. I've learned that sugar coated toppings, somtimes, do more harm than the intended good. I hate feeling like a bitch when I let the sugar turn to dust and blow it away. I don't feel like I should have to keep doing that...I like my sugar on occasion, but I also like being straight to the point. How does one remain straight to the point with one who doesn't take it too well?

I'm sorry if I'm confusing many of you...I seem to be rambling on. I can't really blame myself for doing so, seeing as it's 12:17 am and I'm really tired (lol). Anyway, maybe I'll pick this back up tomorrow. I have some laundry I desperately need to finish so I may check my eyelids for holes for a few hours. I think I'll lay out again tomorrow...

Gourmet Hotdogs and Horses

2009-05-25T14:21:00.001-06:00

Current mood: adventurous Wow, it's definitely been a while since I last blogged...about ANYTHING! It's any wonder why no one's said anything to me (lol). Oh well. I usually get around to blogging eventually. After the fun I had today, I find I'm a bit more of my creative self today. Everything from creative foods to writing again, eh?

Well, I survived last term. I ended up with mostly A's a B and a C in a class that I doubled up on (took a yoga class for me and one that I was going to do with a friend...but shit happens and things fell through).

Now I'm on summer break (YAAAAAY!!!) and Jim's back to work (even bigger YAAAAAAAAAAAAY!!!!!!!!!) full time at a rig in Utah. I don't think we were expecting him to be so close to home, but we couldn't have asked for a better place. He's only 5 hours from work, so he's home sooner and doesn't have to leave until later. :) It's really nice.

Recently I put an ad on craigslist.com looking for horses to ride and work for someone who has them and may not have the time. Why let a good horse go to waste, right? That evening I recieved an e-mail from a lady in Shelley offering to pay for gas to come ride, etc. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to get through to her since (could have been a hoax for all I know *shrug*). Finally, after a few weeks of waiting and watching ads, I recieve a phone call from a lady who lives in Downey. Her daugher recently left for the military and she has a few horses that need to be ridden (and a bit of companionship for herself as well which I'm happy to fulfill). I had been planning on a trip to Downey due to Memorial Weekend anyway, so we setup a time to meet at her place on Sunday. Low and behold, my mother knows her husband and the rest is history. :-)

Needless to say, my ass is going to be sore tomorrow. It's definitely time to get my ass and legs broke back into shape! I almost forgot what it felt like to ride in a saddle after being dormant for so long...ugh. I feel very fortunate and lucky that this lady called me. She can teach me anything and everything I could want to know about having horses, riding, and training. I'm looking forward to this summer...I'll finally have the horse training I've dreamed of all of my life thus far.

Perhaps this is a puzzle piece I've been missing for the last couple of years. After riding today I came home and threw a meal together to cook in the crock pot for tomorrow night's dinner and made myself some "Gourmet Hotdogs" for lunch. Not the healthiest meat, but all things in moderation, and they needed to be used. I pan fried 'em in minced garlic and some italian seasoning...oh so good with a little bit of wheat bread on the side and tons of WATER!!!!

After riding I definitely know that I will be kicking my ass into shape...if I don't do it on the side, I know I'll be paying for it in the saddle. Maybe it's the perfect motivation that I've needed (not that I've been terrible, but I definitely could have been better). :-)

Hope you're all doing well!!! :-)

No time for time.

2009-04-09T11:05:00.000-06:00

Current mood:Crammed
I've been having a pretty busy time the last few weeks. The end of the semester is right around the corner and I've been doing nothing but school, homework, and more school and homework. Go figure, huh?

Things have been a bit stressful, to say the least. I'm handling things better than...well, better than I could, I guess. I'm attempting to keep doing things one thing at a time and in order that they come up. Sometimes it's hard to keep things from being all jumbled inside my head. I've noticed I'm even writing things down more and making lists to remind me to just do one thing at a time.

One thing I definitely don't like about this time of the semester is not being able to really see my friends. I have 40 hours of practicum I'm trying to squeeze into a period of 2 weeks on top of trying to finish big assignments (interview video, case management client folder and everything inside of it, BPS I have to write by the end of the semester, test tomorrow, test next Friday, etc.). Not to mention I received a phone call from my old boss asking if I'd mind coming in to help the accounting office process a few returns...it's crunch time for them, too. I want to help them...need the money, too....but I just have too much stuff I need to do all at once. To be honest, it kinda sucks.

Through all of this chaos I'm attempting to remember my self care. I try and get out of the house and take the dogs for a walk with Jim out in the orchard. The opportunity to walk and talk with him without anyone around is so nice and refreshing. I know things are stressing him out, too.

Point being...I hate time constraints...I wish I had more time to write, but I have to do a presentation in my next class that I have to be ready for.

Odd things about me...though I think "odd" should be changed to "random." (lol)

2009-03-07T21:01:00.002-07:00

Current mood: sick

Share ODD Things about you! If you opened this, FILL IT OUT!Learn 37 things about your friends, and let them learn 37 things about you!Send back to me and to several more friends!!

1. Do you like bleu cheese? On a nice bloody steak! - Pressbox anyone?
2. Do you sleep with socks on? Only if I can't get warm.
3. Do you own a gun? Yeppers!
4. What flavor Kool Aid was your favorite? Strawberry- I think.
5. Toilet paper: Folder or wadder? Depends on the toilet paper...
6. What do you think of hot dogs? Yummy...especially burnt over a fire pit while camping!
7. Favorite Christmas movie? Nightmare Before Christmas and Miracle 34 Street.
8. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? Water or hot tea.
9. Can you do a cartwheel? Ummm...used to be able to. Not sure I can anymore with my wrists...so I guess it depends on the day?
10. What's your favorite piece of jewelry? My wedding ring (it was my mother's), my collar, and my tongue piercings (though I favor the second one more).
11. What are your favorite hobbies? Learning, hiking, and trying new things.
12. Do you have A. D. D.? Where would you get an idea like....oh look, something shiny!
13. Do you wear glasses/contacts? Glasses for computer work (stupid astygmatism).
14. Middle name? Which one...AhRian and Pearl? LOL.
15. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment: I'm thankful for my DJ chats. I really hope this cold doesn't last long. I really need to get to studying for my test on Tuesday.
16. Name 3 drinks you regularly drink: Water, diet soda, hot tea that has licorice root in it.
17. Current worry? Finances for the most part.
18. Current hate right now? The cold weather and my cold.
19. Favorite place to be? With my family (the kind I can't choose AND the kind I CAN choose).
20. How did you bring in the new year? I think I was sleeping. LOL.
21. Where would you like to go? Everywhere.
22. Name three people who will complete this: Ummm...well....not-a-clue.
23. Do you own slippers? Yep...but the better question is...where are they?
24 What color shirt are you wearing? Black.
25. Do you like sleeping on satin sheets? If the room is cool enough, definitely.
26. Can you whistle? Yep, now to be able to whistle loud is needing practice.
27. Where are you now? In my new home in the computer room...though I should be in bed.
28. Would you be a pirate? "But, why's the rum gone?"
29. What songs do you sing in the shower? Any that I can think of...I love hearing the sound bounce back at me...pretty (at least when I'm on key it is).
30. Favorite Girl's Name? Can't tell ya the first one, you'll all just have to wait. :P
31. Favorite boy's name? See the answer to the last one. LOL.
32. What is in your pocket right now? Cat Crap (wow, that sounds bad), medicine, and my worry stone.
33. Last thing that made you laugh? Deviant.
34. What vehicle do you drive? Toyota Tacoma
35. Worst injury you've ever had? Broken arm.
36. Do you love where you live? Oh yes...
37. How many TVs do you have in your house? 3, but only one is hooked up and used...though rarely used.

"Taken"

2009-02-15T18:35:00.001-07:00

Current mood:BOING!
Just went to the theater with Mom, Krysten, and Jim. I had a BLAST! That movie totally kicked ass! If you haven't seen it yet, I definitely encourage you to! Big 2 thumbs up from me. :)

It was so nice to go to a movie with Mom again. :) The one place she can't multitask while watching a movie...the theater! :P Love you, Mom! *wink*

I look forward to doing this again sometime soon. :) I've missed spending time with Mom. It's been really nice, lately. I hope we can do more.

Physical Wednesdays, Mental Thursdays, and Everything Else

2009-02-11T16:59:00.000-07:00

Current mood: distractable

Hey all,

It's been a while since I've blogged so I decided to take a bit of time and do so. I'm having a hard time concentrating on school work today. I'm in a great mood...just tired, but comfortable. Not really sure how else to explain it.

So I'm still trying to decide how nuts I am for taking two Yoga classes on Wednesdays. First of all my morning class is strict yoga...my Yogi professor is going to school in order to become a teacher of teachers. The class is full of information and things to learn about my body that I never knew. It's nice having someone who is attentive to the entire class and will stand back and make sure we are in correct postures that will not hurt our bodies. I'm really glad that I've taken this class from Barbara.

My evening yoga class that is on Wednesdays is a bit different. The instructor is known for teaching pilates (as far as I've learned and heard from other students). She's a hardcore little spitfire that really gets into her workouts. The only complaint I have from that is her lack of attentiveness to the class. There are a few people who have physical medical issues that restricts them from comfortably being able to do certain things. Now, for some postures, I've learned from my morning class, have different ways to modify them to put less tension and pressure to certain parts of the body. I feel it would be helpful to many if she explored those more during the class time, rather than being pumped up and focused on getting her own workout. Of course, this is just my opinion. She's a great instructor (I've experienced pilates from her)...I just feel there's more she needs to learn about yoga before she teaches it.

Now, on top of having 2 workout classes on Wednesday (and this is the reason why I'm nuts) my long day is Thursdays. I have Individuals and Families starting at 9:30, followed by Social Welfare Policy at 11:30, and Case Management at 2:30 till 4:30. Long mental day. I suppose that's what I get for being a student full time. You know, one thing I have definitely noticed, full time with classes from your actual major is a lot different than fulltime with generals. It seemed much easier to juggle 18 credits of generals versus 12-14 credits of classes that are directly related to my major.

Not too much else is going on. Just been trying to work through every day. Stress has decided to become a close friend of mine this semester, though. I'm finding it a bit on the tough side to work through some things that I normally wouldn't have much trouble at all. I've had to re-teach myself to let some stupid things go as well as how to switch between my different roles in life rather than staying bottled up in the middle of them all. It's hard to be best friend, sister, daughter, wife, and more plus a social worker. I find the social worker becoming more and more dominant in me. Still trying to find that balance...it's especially hard when it concerns dual relationships and ethical dilemmas. Balance...it must be somewhere, right?

Anyway, I'm hoping that keeping up with my "me-time" classes will help some with that. I just wish I didn't already have the sneaking feeling of burnout already again this semester. Not so much burnout for school, but burnout for life in general? Does that make sense? *shrug* I'll manage, I always do. I just wish a few things weren't as stressful as they are...I'm slowly weeding through it all...and I'm sure blogging helps, even if I am, at this point, rambling a bit. Sometimes all one needs is a good rambling vent. LOL.

Well, I'm going to go attempt to work on a paper that's due tomorrow. I'm hoping for focus. Maybe I'm needing a good dose of a different kind of meditation...some days I wish I already had training for piercings, brandings, cuttings, and the like...or have someone nearby who actually knew what the hell they were doing in those areas. Sometimes a little pain is all you need to open a whole for all that stress to escape from.

Till next time...be safe.

How many sides to the bed are there?

2009-01-27T08:37:00.001-07:00

Current mood: moody I hate waking up and feeling..."off." Not in a good mood, not in a terrible mood, but "off" enough that you feel every little annoyance like it's a thorn in the side. These are the mornings I just wanna go back to bed and wake up on one of the good sides. At least I didn't wake up completely on the wrong side of the bed...just half way, right?

Grrr...

I have Camerata this evening...supposed to do my audition...I'm just not in the mood. Ah well...I know I'd likely regret it if I dropped the class. I never did get any practice in for the music (for the audition or the class for that matter). I guess we'll see how it goes...Well, I'm off to finish breakfast (thanks to my loving and wonderful husband) and finish getting ready for classes. Maybe I'll work on music between classes today.

Hugs.

Class Schedule, Stress, Yoga, and Fakir Musafar's School

2009-01-26T22:07:00.000-07:00

Current mood: optimistic

So, I've changed my schedule around, for those of you who don't already know. I remember I was going to post it a little while back, but I've been caught up with catching up and staying caught up since I changed things around. It's been easier without the class I dropped...so I'm really glad I dropped it (and that it wasn't required for my degree). My official class schedule is now as follows (this does not include the study schedule):

Monday: Yoga 11:00-11:50 a.m.
Tuesday: Individuals and Families 9:30- 10:45 a.m.

Social Welfare Policy 11:30-12:45 p.m.
Camerata (Choir) 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Wednesday: Yoga 11:00-11:50 p.m.

Yoga 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Thursday: Individuals and Families 9:30-10:45 a.m.

Social Welfare Policy 11:30-12:45 p.m.
Case Management in Social Work 2:30-5:00 p.m.

Friday-Sunday: No classes

Remember, this doesn't include the times I have tentatively spaced out for studying, or the time that I will be engaged in my junior practicum (when they call me back)...so I'll still be unresponsive during some of my "off" times. LOL.

I seem to be doing better this time around this semester, though I'm still struggling to stay caught up. I'm glad that I dropped the class I was taking on Animal Behavior. Half time to full time student is a lot to do all by itself as it is...why take on an extra class that I don't need? So, I decided to take another Yoga class to help with the stress levels and spend some time with Andiy.

Of all the classes I'm taking now, Case Management seems to be the stressor. The material is simple enough...but putting it into action is a bit harder. I find that my professor isn't very helpful with this...I may go for a visit in his office during office hours and see if I'm putting things together correctly.

Been thinking a bit lately about finances and what I'd like to do in my life. Just to give you all an idea of what I mean by that:

Social Work License
Drug and Alcohol Certification
Certified Piercer/Brander
Massage Therapist

There are so many things I'm interested in...I can't see myself just picking one thing. I don't plan to, in the long run. I hope to have the opportunity to do all of these things in my life (and likely more as I move on through my life). Some I'd like to have sooner than others, like the certification for piercing and branding, but with the economy the way it is right now, I don't really see that happening. I was thinking about trying to get the certification some time during the summer if possible. Virtually the only issue I may run into is housing in California for a week...but the school is worth it, in my opinion. How many piercers/branders in this area can say they were taught at Fakir Musafar's school (with the chance of being taught one on one by him). This is what I'm referring to, for those of you who are interested:

http://www.fakir.org/classes/index.html

Anyway, those are just a few things that are in the back of my head...the piercing one has been one that I have been toying with along side getting my LSW and Drug and Alcohol Certification. I guess we'll see...only time will tell.

Anyway, I think I may hop onto WoW for a bit and then turn in. Tomorrow's my earlier school day and I need to get plenty of rest.

School Books, Hawaiian Bombs, DDR Friday, Full Term, Gir and $$$$

2009-01-09T18:33:00.000-07:00

Current mood: adventurous
I'm am loving life and living life! Thanks to Fluzzy I now have a new addiction. Dance Dance Revolution Friday here we come! LOL. Jim and I met up with Fluzzy at Goody's today after buying books (minus the one that's not due in until the 19th, WTF?!). 3 Hawaiian pizza bombs and much laughter later, the 3 of us shipped off to Fluzzy's (with little arm twisting by her) for a "quick" game of DDR. Well...quick = 3 hours. LOL. 3 hours later, we're back at home and I'm sitting here with some wet hair that is baking to a different color (gotta love the sting and burn of chemicals - woot!).

So, the new semester is upon us and I have a full semester load. 3 social work classes, 1 psychology class, 1 yoga class, and I'm back in choir for the first time since Century 2003! LOL.

I'm looking forward to the new semester...new classes, some new teachers, possibly and hopefully some more friends, not to mention all the help from my trusty new friend and laptop, Gir! Yes, I'm going to get a big sticker of Gir from Invader Zim and slap it on him. Hey, the way I see it, I'll have Jim on his webcam when he's at work...why not use one of his nicknames (thanks to Fluzzy) for my laptop that I'll we watching him on? (Did that make any sense? lol).

So...can't really think about anything else to say...except that school is waaaaaaay too freaking expensive!

Back to getting my hair dyes...I'm sure Fluzzy will have pictures so you can watch for them. LOL.

Check out this video: Oompa Loompa Army

2009-01-01T21:37:00.000-07:00

Current mood: ROFLMAO & singing along!

Nothing beats this!

Check out this video: Oompa Loompa Army

End of Term, Common-Sense Pill, Belly Button Sex, Toxic Boogers, Back on Track, Next Term, WoW

2008-12-17T15:08:00.002-07:00

Current mood: accomplished

Another semester is finally over and done with. I'm very excited to say that I took my first and final final exam for the term yesterday afternoon. I feel pretty confident about it, actually. Now I'm gearing myself back up for a full-time term starting in January. According to my adviser (wow, that looks like it's spelled wrong?), if I don't decide to double major in anything (American sign language, psychology, other?) then I would most likely be able to be graduated by this time next year. So, I have that on the horizon and in the back of my consciousness.

Random side note 1: I really wish that someone would come up with a new and effective drug for common sense. Have you noticed how some people have a ton of it while others just have none...and I mean...really, they don't have ANY. There are some days I just want to look at those people and say, "Did you remember to take your common-sense pill today?"

Random side note 2: Belly-button-sex...the one time that the girl can be the one doing the penetration. (For those of you who have forgotten your common-sense pill - it's more common for women than men to have their belly buttons pierced when in a heterosexual relationship [based on my own experiences only]).

Random side note 3: Toxic boogers? No idea what we were all talking about, but I have to give props to my little sister for coming up with this term! I remember that Jim or I said something and she replied with a phrase similar to, "that would be like having toxic boogers or something." LOL. All I remember was that I died laughing and swore that I would post it in my blog! :P

Okay, enough with the side-tracks. LOL. Those were random things I thought about this week that I wanted to post on here for some reason and couldn't find any better way to do it...so you'll just have to live with it.

I need to get back on a day schedule. I find that this night owl thing is making the days go by way to fast and I don't really want my break going by that fast (let alone the time I get with my husband while he's home - last week just went by way to fast for my liking). So, as much as I hate using over the counter medications, especially for something like this...I've decided to give in some and get some help from my old friend...Benadryl. Oh, you gotta love diphenhydramine and it's "may cause drowsiness" effects. ARE YOU SERIOUS?! When I take anything with diphenhydramine in it I might as well say bye to the rest of whatever day I was having. Funny how vicodin is supposed to have similar effects...yet I'm fine on it. Go figure. I'll try a children's dose of Benadryl (since I have some around the house for my puppies during allergy season and long road trips) and see how it goes. Now I just have to find out what time to take the pill....

I'm also planning on keeping up on my blogging again. I've been...well, not doing a very good job of it lately. LOL. For instance, I still haven't updated on the dishwasher experiences (of which there have been a few). I'd like to get those out here for your comedic relief pleasures. Not to mention just getting my thoughts out of my head so I can fall asleep easier at night.

I'd also like to get some picures from World of Warcraft that I have taken in game...of which there are a TON!!!! Holy crap, I've looked through that folder and I has a shit load. LOL. Oh well. What can I say...it's a good way to relieve tension and boredom when you don't have extra money to spare. It's better than some past-time activities I've known some people to use (drinking, drugs, shopping, and more).

This term I'm taking 3 classes that are directly related to my social work degree and 3 classes that are directly related to my self care. Plus one psychology class called Animal Behavior. Individuals and Family's, Social Welfare Policy, and Case Management in Social Work are the 4 I'm taking for my degree (obviously by their names). My "for me" classes are Beginning Hip Hop Aerobics, Beginning Yoga (for the 4th time, though with a different instructor this time, and it fit my schedule), and Camerata Singers. Yep, back in choir. I've missed it. :)

So total them up and I'm taking a total of 15 credits this semester. I'm excited. Not to mention that I will likely be spending some time in the weight room since I will be in Reed's Gym on Mondays and Wednesdays. I likely won't be online till later in the evenings until after my psychology class. I'll post my school schedule on here...in fact, I've posted it at the end of this blog...if you don't see it select my blog and it should appear (kinda like disappearing ink in reverse).

So, there you have it. On that note, I think I'll go work on getting my new mount for World of Warcraft while I can. I'll see what I can do about getting thos WoW pics posted so some of you know what the hell I'm talking about...I'll explain my addiction/infatuation with the game later. Even those of us with common-sense needs a nerdy escape once in a while.

Oh, last side note: I've started reading fantasy books again...oh how I've missed them. My goal is to at LEAST finish the second book in the Twilight series "New Moon." I should be able to...I'd like to start and finish the 3rd if at all possible, too. Anyway...wish me luck on getting that mount today so I can start leveling up again! :)

Hugs from your nerdy-gamer friend! :P

Course	Description	Location	Days	Time	Cr
SOWK 371 01	SOCIAL WELFARE POLICY	L A 324	T H	11:30 am - 12:45 pm	3.0
SOWK 372 01	PRACTICE WITH INDIV & FAML	L A 151	T H	9:30 am - 10:45 am	3.0
SOWK 491 03	CASE MANAGEMENT IN SW	L A 325	H	2:30 pm - 5:00 pm	3.0
PEAC 131A14	BEG AEROBIC-HIP HOP	GYM 237	M W	1:00 pm - 1:50 pm	1.0
PSYC 435 01	ANIMAL BEHAVIOR	VOART117	M W	3:00 pm - 4:15 pm	3.0
PEAC 122A07	BEGINNING YOGA	GYM 236	M W	11:00 am - 11:50 am	1.0
MUSC 170 01	CAMERATA SINGERS	F A 110	T	7:30 pm - 9:30 pm	1.0

Currently reading :
New Moon (The Twilight Saga, Book 2)
By Meyer Stephe

Charley’s, Wolfie, Nimbers, Elena, bottom?, missing roughnecks and far away connections, Roads.

2008-11-23T04:08:00.000-07:00

Current mood: Full of Thoughts

Charley's nights never cease to amaze me, it seems. Wonderful, free-living people intermingled with those who are more confined and just wish to see the world in a different light, even if only for one night. Old friends I suspected I might see there one day...acquaintances I never imagined would step foot into the door (let alone dance with the same sex in such ways), a beautiful woman bold enough to pass me a delicious note and a phone number one night, something she makes clear is "not something I normally do,"...and strangers brave enough to grab me by the collar and whisk me onto the dance floor (only to become a familiar face and frequent dance partner during future visits).

Sober people, buzzing people, drunk people, plastered people...and those, like myself, who engage in wonderful "sober drunkeness" from all the electric/sexual energy in the room that is just so delectable and easy to feed off of.

It was great to spend Wolfie's birthday with her and several friends. I am very glad and very honored to have been able to see a side of her that I have only felt around her as if it were a whisper on the wind some days. Needless to say, by the end of the night, I really did want to take her home. No worries, though, I am sure this will not be the last night she will come to Club Charley's with me. I look forward to future visits...if only to dance some more with her and shock people that do not recognize that side in her. What can I say...I seem to be the exception to everyone's rules to one degree or another (though the reason for that still eludes me to no end it seems).

Nimblers was sexy as ever, though she did not plan to be to the extent that she was, I don't think. LOL. Her and I were, by the time we left, debating on whether or not we should really go out. However, since I promised Wolfie I would be present for her first Charley's experience, of course we went! Once there, as it always happens, the energy hit us the second the door opened to our touch and we glided inside. The music loud, bass thumping, bodies moving, energy pulsating...better than any drug or energy drink known to man. If you could bottle up that feeling and sell it...one would make millions and more. I love it when she decides to use me as her dancing pole...especially when I am able to make her squirm at the feel of my breath at the back of her ear. What can I say...I just can't help myself some nights...especially with those vibes...

After a few drinks to loosen up and open up my senses for more energy to take into myself, I went back to the entrance to give Brandy/Robbie a hug and place my jacket behind the register for safe keeping, only to have my breath taken from me once again by the sight of Elena. Wonderful girl...amazing, beautiful, brilliant, fun, graceful, strong, passionate, primal...oh the things I am sure we could share and may share in the future. Although, I agree, we definitely need to figure this outside-of-Charley's thing out. :) Latte's sounds excellent. We will have to find a time to do so. Perhaps at 5th Street Bagelry one day? I am dying to know you outside of the dance floor...though, I must say, the dance floor becomes a surprising place of comfort when I am attatched to you (saying a lot coming from one who never used to dance, and is rarely comfortable up there in front of all of those people...you have that affect on me, it seems). I look forward to future conversations, piano fingers up my spine, flirtations, dances, kisses, friendship, and more.

i was stopped...or, rather, grabbed once again, by One so willing to take me by the collar, drag me to the dance floor and proceed to bite various places on my flesh after spying me moving to the beat of a nice song from across the room. i will refer to Her as Master T for now, as i am unsure what She prefers to be addressed as. She has invited me out to Charley's tomorrow afternoon for a sober meeting during a rehearsal for the next Charley's show. She wishes to discuss boundaries as far as a possible Top/bottom relationship. We shall see how compatible we are and whether or not we will "work out," for lack of a better description. i am looking forward to it, though i will not lie...it is a bit nerve racking and i will remain cautious and mindful, yet open at the same time. i have my Mentor to thank for helping me learn what questions to ask and what things i need to make clear on my end. However, even if we are not compatible, i have a feeling it will lead me to another open door into the world of BDSM should i wish to walk through it.

There were several things missing tonight (minus the fact that the place was half dead compared to most Saturday nights...not near the amount of energy radiating in the room because of it). Roughnecks and Center Street bar with a nice game of pool, a few drinks, and a few text messages sent to wrong people, for instance (I can live without the passing out episode in the bathroom, though *chuckle*). WINGAPO!...or should I say goosfraba?

Not to mention the unfortunate truth that others who are too far away to enjoy the wonders of a nightlife with yours truly, yet (soon, but not yet, unfortunately). I can't tell you how frustrating it is not to have those people you really connect with physically closer. It sucks...but, I will be patient and wait for the day to come that I can help another friend.

...those that helped me out of my previous relationship...I can't even begin to say how much I miss them...

So many things I want in this world...somedays it doesn't seem fair that I am just one person...so many lives I would love to live and roads I would like travel down. But we have been given the ability to only travel down one of those roads at a time...never to turn back...and learn to make the most out of the it no matter what it may bring or throw at you.

I sometimes wonder if I am the only one with so many conflicting personalities that wish to take over. I feel that I am in a constant battle with myself...somedays/nights more than others. Good girl versus Bad girl. Sober versus Drunk. Human versus Vampire. Punk versus Goth versus "Normal." Dark versus Light. Monogomous versus Nonmonogomous. BDSM versus Vanilla.

...Though, some of these have easy answers for me, I find that they are not always the easiest ones to have and endulge in freely...especially since my choices mostly fall into the gray area of those "either/or" subjects. Sociey has given limits to many things, though one thing they all have in common: Freedom. It seems no matter how free you are in your world...you're never completely free to be 100% the person you wish to be or feel you really are when you think about it. Then again, when given those opportunities, there are always battles with the norms of society and those influences that have already been pounded into your mind...the latter being the hardest to deal with, it seems (I find it leads to being hypocritical very easily if/when you're not careful).

...I have found myself at an end to this blog as I am too tired to continue writing and have lost my drive after re-reading all that I have already written in order to make sure that it all makes sense. LOL. If any of it needs clarifying, don't hesitate to ask. Please, comment on this one...I would ask that favor of all those who read this, please...

Thank you.

Currently listening :
Womanizer
By Britney Spears
Release date: 2008-11-25

Jack, NBC, Elite Deviance???, Human Sexuality, and Trueblood

2008-11-04T13:36:00.000-07:00

Current mood: stoked

Well, I decided it's been a while since I last blogged. Maybe it's about time I do, huh? Come on, I know you're all dying to know what's up with me. LOL. Just kidding.

So, I have a new baby...if you've been paying attention you'll notice a picture of him found in my pictures section. His name is Jack. His theme is "Nightmare Before Christmas" (NBC). We figured that, since we brought him home the evening of Halloween, what better name/theme? Now, I'm here to tell all of you who are even THINKING about Christmas gifts for yours truly...ALL I WANT is stuff for the truck. Anything that has the theme of NBC is great! I'm definitely looking for a window decal of Jack's dog, Zero, for the back window. Then again, I have to keep in mind that I can't really do anything with the windows until I get them tinted, but I can always save the decal for when it's done. But, yeah, I don't want much (just the world, right?). LOL.

My baby is currently sitting down at the Buzz Shop getting a bad ass custom, top of the line, sound system installed. I can't WAIT to bring him back home tomorrow evening. I went to the courthouse today and got him all registered and snagged the paperwork for the custom license plate which will read: NYTMARE (name is courtesy of my brilliant and wonderful husband--I know, he had you all fooled). I'm way stoked to play with Jack. I doubt I'll need another vehicle for quite a few years to come...that's what I get for getting exactly what I wanted the first time around instead of settling for something (also a courtesy to my husband, because we're worth it!).

Nothing else really major is going on in my life right now. Waiting for 2:00 to roll around so I can go and take my test for my bullshit Elite Deviance class. You know, I wouldn't mind the class so much if the class description that my friend was verbally given by the professor wasn't a load of crap. We were initially supposed to be learning about people like Ted Bundy and all sorts of other interesting people. All we've talked about in every class is "The American Gentry" and a bunch of political bullshit. I hate politics...if I wanted politics, I would have majored in government and politics. Not only is it politics, but it's HISTORY and POLITICS. I'm sorry, but...I was expecting to analyze serial killers and their stories...not presidents and upperclassmen and the bullshit that we all already know they get away with...*sigh*

Tangent of this topic: I find it sad that I learn more in a 4 hour cram session with the study guide and 2 of my friends than I do in the entire time I'm sitting in class... trying to figure out if that's ironic or just plain sad.

On the other end of the spectrum, I absolutely LOVE my human sexuality class!!! Then again, I love learning about sex, sexuality, sex-norms and all of the biological, sociological, psychological, and all of those other -logicals that are found in it.

I've found a new show that I'm hooked on: Trueblood. I'm loving it. Though I have to say that Anna Paquin as a "dumb southern belle" is not appealing...not in the least...even if she does have a special ability. That reminds me...I want to find a vampire-lifestyle video that I saw aired one late-night while I was in high school. I recorded it and gave it to my sociology teacher and never got the chance to watch it. I don't think it was discovery channel...but I know it was about modern day vampires. I'll have to see what I can dig up. That, and I want my own copy of "Modify." I already miss watching that.

Well, I think that'll do for now. Not a bad blogpost after not writing one in a while. Hit me up. I'll write again soon...I think....

Currently watching :
True Blood (HBO Series)

I’m alive. Dessert. "Quills."

2008-10-15T18:28:00.000-06:00

Current mood: satisfied
The last time I wrote I was a bit annoyed with a lot of things...I think that much is at least obvious. I was tired of always being the one that everyone goes to "solve their problems," even if it was just to ask my opinion on something. It just got to the point that I found myself doing things for everyone else and nothing for myself besides studying (something I still had to fight for time for).

Now, however, I'm doing much BETTER!!!! Yay! I've scheduled my day much like I wrote out before, though I've been a little slack on walking the dogs (mainly due to Ty Ty's blaming the snow on me and refusing to actually "walk" anywhere).

School isn't going too bad. I have a test tomorrow in Human Sexuality. Shouldn't be too bad. We're studying sexuality through history and cultures, different methods of scientific testing for finding "the answers" to our sexuality, and, simply put, the male reproductive anatomy and functions. :) So...pretty simple...though I must admit that Dr. Deviant's classes seemed to have prepped me up a bit more for this class and being vocal about sex in general. There's a few things I need to study up on a bit but it can wait for the moment, I'm not too worried about it.

World of Warcraft and "The Historian" by Elizabeth Kostova are my two recent outlets for "escaping reality." I did some meditating and found that to be one of my biggest problems with running around with my head cut off. I had no escape...no fantasy to fall head first into to get away from everyone and everything real. Now I do...and I'm VERY happy. I feel like I get my dessert everyday now, for lack of a better explanation. ;)

Well, I'm going to go for now. I just realized that I hadn't blogged in a long time and wanted to let you know I'm still alive and well. :) Next on the agenda: Watch "Quills."

Small Update, thanks Kenyon!!!, new schedule, cell phone issues, catching up

2008-10-07T17:37:00.000-06:00

Current mood: determined

I know that you all are waiting and waiting for an update on the wedding, honeymoon, and are all dying to see more pictures of the few that are floating around my friend's myspace pictures. I'm waiting on one more set of pictures before I post them all in an album on my myspace...hoping to get the disc from my friend soon!!!!

The wedding was fantastic!!! I could not have asked for a better wedding. The thing I loved most about it (other than the actual ceremony and having our partnership be official according to modern society) is the fact that I can name every person I see in all of the wedding pictures!!! There were no "strays" that leave me asking "who's that person?" To me, that was awesome!

Jim and I went on our honeymoon to West Yellowstone...MUCHO THANKS TO KENYON!!!!!! We definitely needed the break from all of the chaos I've come to realize our lives have been ever since him and I started our relationship. All I can say is, "BE PREPARED! Things are DEFINITELY going to change!"

I'm tired of not having quality time to spend at home with my husband. I've written out a tentative schedule that I'm attempting to apply to my everyday life now. It's going to take some getting used to, especially on my part, but it should help me with the free-time factor that I have been lacking lately.

Here's a rough idea of what my weekdays will be looking like thus far...I have't decided on the weekends yet, we'll come to that after my trial week:

1. Get up and take care of general morning stuff.

2. Take the dogs for a run around the soccer field (2 laps for me).

3. Come home and break out the books for 2 hours.

4. Class on the days that I have class (studying will likely be broken up to a little before and a little after class). After classes I will be taking time to type up the notes fromt that day while I'm on campus and can print them out for free.

5. After studying and things are finished (so long as I'm not working on the latest paper that's due for class), I'm going to put a little effort in cleaning the apartment. Whether it's cleaning an entire room or going through a little bit here and there in each room, whatever works so long as I get SOMETHING done.

6. This should leave me with free time for myself. I'm going to be making time for WoW during the week, and I also want time to myself to sit down and just enjoy a break from reality (whether through a movie or a book, whatever).

I'm tired of having shit stacking up in the stress dept and not having anything to releive it..so I'm changing it. My stupid eye-twitch keeps coming back any time I'm faced with a new stressor...so that's part of my new indicator for it (that and I've started wearing my reading glasses again since I think it has something to do with my astygmatism, too).

To those of you who inquired about the dish washer....we'll just say that the dishes have definitely been getting done!!! :) Yes, I've been converted and have hidden my dish strainer under the sink (as a bonus clears some counter space).

One thing that my friends may or may not like, but at this time I don't really care, is an issue with my cell phone. It's no longer a tool for all of you to use to find me. It's a tool for me to use at my convenience. If I don't answer your text messages in a "timely manner," don't worry about it. If it's THAT important that you need an answer from me NOW, call me. It's not that hard to pick up your phone and call me and it saves your fingers from having to type me 100 messages asking me why I'm not answering and saves me from having to try to explain that I'm taking some me-time or I'm studying, etc. My texting will be silent during my study hour, but my ringer will be on if someone calls me (love my blackberry for that). So, if it's important, call....simple as that. If it can wait, then I'll message you back when I'm done doing whatever I'm doing.

Remember, my schedule is tentative. Those are the things I plan on getting done in a day, though, come hell or high water. Do what you can to help me out. Patience is the biggest factor.

That's all for now...I'm going to head off to class, then typing notes. I'll be better about keeping up with this as well since it helps me get my thoughts in order and lets you all know that, no, I'm really not ignoring you.

Adventures in Dishwashing...

2008-09-22T23:55:00.003-06:00

Current mood: Skeptical ;)

As much as we all just LOVE doing dishes I have always been very finicky about doing them by hand. Fill up the sink with soapy water, wash dish, rinse, and put in the strainer to dry. It's how I've ALWAYS done dishes. :)

Well, with all of the chaos of getting married, school, and attempting to keep the apartment clean (as well as stay in touch with close friends), you can imagine how clean the apartment really is...

Yeah...it's not. LOL. So, since the stress of a wedding is done (I will be blogging about this in the future...want to get all the stuff rounded up for it before I divulge all), I'm attempting to catch back up with the school stuff and clean the apartment.

I looked at the sink full of dishes today and cringed...there was stuff sitting in there with mold on it...I hate it when that happens...not to mention the dried on food from breakfast in bed and trial cake raspberry center stuck to the plates they were on.

Needless to say...my eyes wandered to the seemingly harmless dishwasher...one thing I've never used that is supposed to "make life easier" around the house. So...I looked under the sink where the dishwasher soap is supposed to be...and of course we're out. I drive to Fred Meyer and pick up a box of Cascade and a bottle Jet Dry (thanks to my all-knowing brilliant Mom to know the ins and outs of a dishwasher and who is able to walk me through what soaps to use...if all else fails, ask Mom!!!).

Picked up a couple of side things as well...why is it you can never go shopping for just the things on your list...you always leave with more than you planned on buying??? This is why I'm not in marketing...

Back at home, and talking to my sister on the phone, I proceed to open the questionable household machine that's become a "must need" for renters and home owners everywhere...and inspect the inside...look at the places for soap on the door...proceed to receive instruction from my all-knowing sister (who is also a mother, mind you) about where to put the Jet Dry...all the while wondering if I'm really doing it right or if I'm pouring the blue liquid into an orifice of the machine that will, in the end, break it for good. Jet Dry figured out (helps if I read a bit, too, as there are words on the lid to the drying aid orifice)...I move on to the Cascade...one for soap dispenser that latches shut...the second for a wonderful concept: prewash. My sister uses it...so will I. :)

Pack the dishes in...learn that the coffee maker that I use to make tea in actually comes apart so you can throw it in the dishwasher, too...along with pots, pans, silverware, cups (plastic AND glass), and whatever else you can determine is "dishwasher safe...and voila! I has my first load of dishes packed neatly in the dishwasher...

Now close the lid...turn the dial to "normal wash" even though I debate on putting it on to "pots and pans" since there's one of each in there (again, listened to my sister...so I'll blame her if anything goes wrong...). After the dial is safely and snuggly turned....what's that I hear? Ooooo...water....so...it works? *eyebrows raised and looking skeptically at the machine*

...we shall see...........

The Big Day!!!

2008-09-19T01:09:00.000-06:00

Current mood: excited, exhausted

Here it is...1:00 in the morning on the day I'm getting married...and Jim and I STILL haven't been to sleep...been doing nothing but run since we got up.

Well, to those of you who don't know how to get to Downey:

Travel South out of Pocatello on I-15.
Take the Virginia/Downey exit and hang a left.
Drive about 10 miles to Downey and take the first left over the train tracks when you hit city limits (before the gas station).
On that same road drive all the way to the very end and you'll be facing a horse pasture (no horses in sight) and take a right turn...first house on the left (the pasture belongs to Grandma).

If all else fails...FOLLOW THE BALLOONS!!! :)

Now...I'm gunna go take a much needed shower, finish a couple more last minute things, and get some much needed REST!!!! Tomorrow is gonna be a BIG BIG BIG day!!! Bring your cameras everyone! :)

Huggles!

...and the craziness begins...

2008-09-17T14:03:00.001-06:00

Current mood: busy

So far today has consisted of nothing but running. Started it off with going to my part-time "work" (I use that loosely since I'm doing it more for the learning experience than for the money). Was there for an hour while Jim took my car and washed it for me (he's such a sweetheart!!!).

Second on the list was an eye appointment for my beloved husband-to-be. He got some contacts for the wedding day to try out and we got some new glasses ordered for him, too. I even found some frames that I liked if/when I get my eye appointment (if I need glasses...which I think I might with the way my eyes have been acting lately).

Third was a quick lunch break and then off to Blackfoot to talk to Joe (the guy who's going to marry us). That took about 10 minutes of him showing us around his new pad and then 5 minutes of talking wedding stuff...followed by a few minutes of just sitting...which made me realize how tired I really am. LOL. Go figure huh?

So, nap was in mind for when we made it back into Pocatello...no rest for the wicked though, as you can all imagine, especially this close to the wedding. Heading out to Mom's to talk more about food stuffs and other wedding plans, not to mention finding out where all of our family members are and when they're all going to be here.

Need to clean up the place, too...fun fun...so much to do and so little time to get it all done in...I'm sooooo glad I decided to just take the 2 classes this semester...or this REALLY WOULD BE HELL!!!!

Huggles!

...and the search begins...just wish it wasn’t this week....

2008-09-15T19:00:00.000-06:00

Current mood: infuriated

I'm now checking the newspapers for a new place to live. All I will say is that Kirkwood Meadows has ridiculous prices and stipulations for owning a dog...I'd rather sleep in an alley behind a dumpster than give up the 3 that are living with me...
I hate to say this, but I'm pissed enough that I will:

Fuck Kirkwood...

Marriage = Chain and Ball? Says who?

2008-09-14T21:56:00.004-06:00

Current mood: weird

Well, after going to bed at 8:00am this morning when I got off the phone with Jim, I didn't wake up again until he called me again at 3:00pm. Needless to say it was a late start to my day. LOL.

Received a phone call from a very old friend of mine (from when I was in junior high and she was in elementary school) today asking me to come down to the Club where she works now. It was awesome to come see her. Met some new and interesting friends thanks to her. I plan on going to visit her while Jim is in town, too. Jim wants to meet her. :)

Although I was happy to meet new friends tonight I came to an odd realization because of the way one of them reacted to a comment I made. When we first met, she was very flirty and open...reminds me a lot of myself in many ways. We flirted back and forth, showed off our tattoos to eachother and all of that. Then something happened...I made mention of my partner and that I'm getting married this weekend and she became a bit closed off. I mentioned that Jim and I have a fairly open relationship, that he enables and encourages me to be myself...the open, flirty, physical person that I am with everyone. I still ended up with that "let down" look.

This is not the first time this has happened by any means. I've had several people...some that I've known for a few years...who get that "well, now that you're getting married you'll be 'settling down'" type look. Why is it that our society seems to view marriage as a "chaining down" event? Just because I'm getting married does not mean I'm no longer going to be the physical, flirty, kissy, human being that I am. Those features are a part of me...if I couldn't do those things AND be married I'd likely never get married.

I was in a relationship for four years that did not allow me to be my carefree self. The key word to this is "FREE." I'm able to make my own decision, flirt with who I want, kiss who I please, dance with whoever I decide to dance with, feel people up and get felt up if it's consensual and just be my physical-loving self! My marriage is anything but a ball and chain. My marriage is to someone who I was most fortunate and lucky enough to find who trusts that I will always be coming home. His view is that "if I'm not happy, I won't come home...and I deserve to be happy even if it's not with him."

I get looks sometimes when, after flirting and be playful with my friends, I tell someone who's been watching that I'm getting married. They look at me like, "What would your husband-to-be think if he saw the way you're acting with these other people?" or "You're cheating on your soon-to-be husband and you're marrying him?" I'm not cheating, folks. Far from. There IS a difference.

I guess my point to this is I wish people would open their minds a bit and realize that not all marriages are the same. Our world is made of up so many cultures within cultures that I think we sometimes forget that we think in the terms of our main society's norms and seem to shut down when those subcultures hit us in the face.

Back to studying. I would love all of your thoughts on this one...don't be shy...gimme something juicy from your brain...

........again?!

2008-09-12T22:54:00.001-06:00

Current mood: frustrated

I remember when I was eleven. I lived on Pershing and was going to school at Lewis & Clark Elementary. I was not always a good girl, by any means, and had my fair share of downs as well as ups. I do remember having some common sense and can't imagine what it would be like not having it. I know that things would have been much harder if I didn't have it then (or now for that matter).

I just don't understand why she thinks she can get away with things when she stays at my home. She knows what is expected of her, she knows what she can and cannot do and she knows that if she isn't sure about something that she's supposed to ask.

She came to my place grounded from friends, which means she has to stay inside anyway. First day she didn't do her morning routine and neglected to tell me that her showers had been switched to nights...telling me that she thought Mom told me.

"If Mom had told me you would have been in the shower last night, right?"

"Well, I thought she told you."

"I think it's obvious that she didn't. What's more is that you knew what needed to be done in the first place and you didn't do it."

Then she proceeds to show me an empty planner that I'm supposed to sign. She is supposed to write in it daily at school and have a parent/guardian sign it so that we can keep up with what she's doing in school and what needs to be done for homework. She didn't get a signature from me as there was nothing written down. Again, she got in trouble.

Today was the same with the planner. She knew she was in trouble and said she'd written it on a sheet of paper that was taped in her planner and that the piece of paper fell out and she couldn't find it. Not sure what to do, but knowing it wouldn't fly with Mom, I called Mom. She saved the day and handled it. Again, she got in trouble.

Tonight was going great. Krysten helped Jen out in her room with organizing and putting things away, I was able to get a few of my boxes emptied out and put away (my way of "nesting"), I ordered pizza for dinner because I thought we'd all worked hard and deserved it. Krysten got her shower and we all watched the new Little Mermaid movie (the prequel to the others). After it was over I sent Krysten to brush her teeth and to bed.

Well, all is well, right? Nope! I get into my room and I see that I have a message popped up from a good friend of mine in Salmon who I haven't talked to in a long time. Well, what I find when I sit down to read the message is this:

Friend: HEY!
Friend: how are ya feeling?!?!
Friend: I hope you're feeling better -- you don't sound too good on Myspace! So how are ya?
RiRi.Kitten: hi
Friend: hola
Friend: how have you been?
Friend: HELLOOOOOOOOOOOOOO???
Friend: (insert smilie that's waving)

The focal point to this is bolded in red. How can I reply to a friend if I'm not in the room? So, I calmly and casually go ask Jen, who is still sitting in the living room, if she'd talked to any of my friends on messenger. She said, "No, why?" I left it at that.

I walked into Jen's room where Krysten is sleeping and "woke her up" (I doubt she was asleep after just laying down 2 minutes before) and asked her to come into my room. With the message still up, I asked her, "Did you type this?" (pointing to the bolded message from "me").

"No."

"Well, I didn't write it and neither did Jen."

"I didn't do it."

"Well, someone had to have done it."

"I might have done it, but I don't remember," rubbing her eyes and acting half asleep.

"Did you or didn't you?"

"Yes, I did."

I proceeded to ask her why she thinks she can do these things at my place. "I let you stay here because you wanted to. Why do you think you can get away with these things? First you aren't bringing your planner home and now this? What are you thinking?"

"I don't know..."

"Well, I think you'd better think about things, Krysten. go to bed."

I feel bad because she was crying, but I feel worse because she lied to me. I now know what Mom felt like every time I lied to her and she knew I was lying...I never thought it'd bite me in the butt so soon. I'm not kidding when I say that Krysten is a lot like me...a bit more girlie than I was, but she still is...and that scares me in some ways because I know what I've done and I know what I could have done but didn't (usually thanks to the common sense that I had and heeded).

I don't know what to do...I'm not her guardian so I don't feel like I can really discipline her...she thinks I'm hard on her enough as it is when she's not grounded. I won't take her lying to me...I won't take her pulling my chain or leading me on or fooling me...If she wants to keep staying with me I'm thinking that my mother and I need to sit down and have a talk with her about this...I don't know what else to do on my end...

*sigh* I couldn't stand it...I needed to vent this out...

Headache Cure for the Worst Headache in the World!!! Current mood: 100% Better, Nesting, Jonesing for WoW!

2008-09-12T18:05:00.000-06:00

Alrighty...so I've decided that headaches caused from withdrawal REALLY REALLY REALLY SUCK!!!!!

Yes, I found the reason for my really bad headache that I've had for about 2 days now. The achy throbbing from my ears forward that nestled itself right behind my eyes and threatened to explode at any given second. It makes sense now why the excedrin only helped a little bit...then when it was used up why I had a headache worse than when I started.

CAFFEINE WITHDRAWALS SUCK!!!!

I went to Kick's 66 with Krysten, filled up the car and decided a Diet Pepsi sounded really really good. After I purchased it...sort of thanks to an old buddy from high school...I took a few sips and the change was damn near instantaneous!!! It was incredible!! My eyes cleared up, the throbbing stopped, I became light headed and was able to actually walk into the sunlight without cringing nearly as much as I was (I cringe anyway because my eyes are sensitive to it). I'm feeling damn near 100% better now!!!

So, now I'm going to go nest some more and then read for about an hour...then I want to play some WOW!!!! I haven't played in FOREVER! It's been over a month since I've played . So, that's my plan for right now. I'm going to go nest, read, and then play. The quicker I get on it the faster I get to play...so tootles for now!!!!

Things Straight for Now, Headaches, Cleaning, and Chloroform Current mood: Headachey, Tired, Accomplished, Need to Read!

2008-09-11T23:18:00.001-06:00

Well, the rest of my evening went rather well. Mom and I talked about Krysten and what's going on with her, Krysten and I talked, then Mom and Krysten talked. All in all we've squared things away for the time being. Krysten knows what she needs to do and she knows that Mom and I talk way too often for her to get around the rules and things she knows she needs to do. I still feel played, but she made up for it some by really cleaning the bathroom this time (she followed the directions from top to bottom...I think she knew she was already in deep enough trouble). It didn't take her long, either.

I've had a headache all day. Not sure what's causing it. It dies down a bit after I get something to eat, but not even excedrin has been able to shake this one. I took 4 ib profen and I'm still not getting anything...I think I'll double it up with some excedrin and see if I can go do sleep. After dropping Krysten off at the bus stop and walking the dogs with Jen, if it's still there I think I'll make a trip back to bed.

I was able to get quite a bit done with the apartment today. It's looking more and more lived in everyday. Only a few more things left to do and some major deep cleaning, too, and then I'll be all ready for guests. LOL.

Well, I'm getting told that I need to go to bed...and it's very true...so, off I go...(go put that chloroform away!).

Sleeping In, Stress, Sick?, Missing Jim, Getting Things Straight

2008-09-11T15:17:00.000-06:00

Current mood: annoyed

Well, I think the stress if finally catching up with me. :( I ended up taking a nap for what was supposed to be an hour. I must have turned my alarm off while I was sleeping, though. I ended up sleeping in until 1:30. My class started at 1:00. I'm thankful I have friends like Rachelle who record class, too. I'm also thankful and lucky that attendance isn't part of the grade for this class. I'm just pissed that I missed it...it's my favorite class...

I guess the stress is all starting to catch up to me. I know I must have needed the sleep...just pissed that I napped before class, I guess. I don't know. Not to mention that I've been trying to keep a sinus infection from springing up on me. I can feel it at night sometimes and often wonder if it'll be there in the morning when I wake up. It hasn't been here...and I'm going to do everything I can to keep it from being here!

I miss Jim so much today. Don't get me wrong, I miss him all the time, but today is really hard for some reason. I'm glad that I can hear his voice on messenger...it helps some. I can't wait till September 19th when we finally get to say "I do." Then all the stress from this wedding will finally be gone...I hope.

Well, I'm going to finish talking to Jim on messenger and then hit the books again after picking Krysten up. Her and I have to have a talk about a few things when she gets home. I feel like she's playing me for a fool. She has a routine at Mom's house that she knows she needs to follow and does so...but the minute she gets to my place she complains and makes excuses for everything. I ask her to do one thing and she says she's sick. I got sick of it one weekend and told her that if she's sick she stays in bed...she got better real quick. Anyway, I'll see how this talk goes with her.

Don't be surprised if you see more blogs from me this week. I want to get back into the habit of blogging...I know it relieves stress for me.

Till later....

Currently reading :
Our Sexuality
By Robert L. Crooks

Changes/Goals, Wedding Announcement Finished for the FINAL time, & Life gets in the way of Life

2008-09-11T09:12:00.000-06:00

Current mood: sleepy, determined, confident, adored, loved, happy

A few days ago my online-best-friend, Brandon, and I were talking about changes we wish to make in our lives in order to feel better about ourselves (for whatever reasons). We both seem to have this pattern of starting what seems to be a really good idea at the time and then suddenly having it die before the ending goal is ever really reached (or even half done in some cases).

Well, I'm trying a few things out this time. I have an account on igoogle.com that I have set up on my home computer. On it I have a few widgets (I think they're called???) that are being used in this. The first being the famous "ToDo" list. I've listed several things on here that I need to get done, the sooner the better, and I keep them in order of priority and revise it daily as needed.

The second widget that I use is very similar to those wonderful little sticky pad that you can use to stick reminders everywhere in your house...that I never end up re-reading no matter how many of them I seem to write (and if I do read them I seem to say "I'll do it later" quite a bit). The name of the widget, for those of you who may want it is simple: My Notes. The 1st page of my notes currently has a list of things I wish to blog about eventually (hopefully in the near future). However, the second page is what is of importance at this time.

Page two of my notes is a simple list of 5 goals plus one bonus goal. I will list my goals here and explain how I am managing to accomplish them so far and how I plan to accomplish them in the future:

1. Workout somehow once a day.
- I've stared this goal already with the help of two things. The first being my new roommate, Jen. She and I are motivating eachother to wake up in the morning (sometime before 8 or 9 am) and take the dogs for an hour on a walk. Not only does it benefit the dogs, but it benefits us, too. We get some girl time out of the way and get the chance to just enjoy eachother's company.
- The second factor to this that I've just begun (first day was today, actually) involves holding my body in a position (awkward or not) for an extended length of time (one posture today was 15 minutes straight and the other was 25 minutes). I will elaborate this further in a future blog for those of you who don't know what I'm talking about.

2. Don't spend money on food you do not really need.
- In other words, don't use the money you don't have on fast-food or going out to eat. I can be thrifty, right? I can eat at home and make things and get creative...really, I can. I've never been much of a cooking-type person. I don't know if that's because I was never really given the opportunity once I moved from 9th street (away from all of my friends who loved my hamburger helper meals and salmon patties) or if there's some other underlying reason. Who knows. I will mention as a side-note that so long as I'm not the one spending money I can eat out (thanks Dad and Andiy!!!).
- The other benefit to this is that I will have leftovers and that most of the things in the apartment are healthy foods or things that I can turn into healthy foods. Rice with veggies and a meat, for instance, is always a great choice...add some pineapple and you have all of the food groups! Woot!

3. Read each of my class subjects at least once a day.
- I hope you can all see the benefit to this one. I've never been one to really have a studying pattern. I'm wanting to change that as I am tired of getting things done at the last minute. I always seem to have some reason to not study until I desperately need to (and sometimes still don't get it in). This is a problem, yes, I admit it. That's why it's on the list.
- I've decided I want to spend at least 30 minutes reading the materials for each class (meaning 30 minutes per class). I would like to get into the habit of reading an hour more often than not. Of course, I'd even be happy with 45 minutes of each subject a day so long as I'm reading them.
- Now, to explain my "new definition" of "minute." This semester I thankfully purchased a voice recorder. It's one that will turn what I record into mp3 format so that I can turn it into a "music" CD. When I say I want to read 30 minutes of a subject, I mean I want 30 minutes of reading material recorded onto my voice recorder. If I get interrupted, it will take that much longer to get my reading finished. So...30 minutes could easily take an hour if I'm interrupted for whatever reason (even to take a drink of water or grab a snack or keep the dogs from fighting). I'm taking this one very seriously.

4. Yoga 2 times a week.
- The word "yoga" is used loosely here. Now that I'm doing those poses for extended periods of time and am walking with Jen and the dogs, I know I'm going to have to keep up with my muscles' flexibility. I'm prone to getting leg cramps and do not wish to have them regularly like I've had in the past. Stretching is vital to this (as well as drinking a crap load of water everyday [which I do anyway]). So, I'm going to take some time to stretch out either on my own or complete a yoga dvd that I have here at home.

5. Take vitamins daily
- I have several reasons for this one -- general health and well being, energy, folic acid, and yeah...just being healthy.

Bonus: Dream Journal
- I've been really wanting to remember my dreams again. I used to be very good at it. In the past I used to notice small things that would correlate from my dreams into my reality. I wish to explore this further as it is of deep interest to me. Special thanks to the sould that is coaching me in this and other areas...I plan to start my other "things I seem to notice" journal later. One step at a time, right?

So, these are my current goals. I really should have been in bed 3 hours ago, but, alas, life has gotten in the way once again...that's how it seems to go lately. I'm going to fix that.

Now, for those of you who have taken the time to read the entirety of my blog (and those of you who have just scrolled to the bottom because I bored you a long time ago) I'd like to announce that my wedding announcements are FINALLY complete for the FINAL time!!! Yay! Seriously, this time they really are done...the printouts turned out great and it has a new background photo that looks fantastic! In short, they're perfect. If you would like a real announcement mailed to you, please email me with your address.

Okay, I'm done ranting for tonight....now that it's morning...grrrr...so much for early bedtime...ah well.

Huggles and Strawberry Dreams to all! :)

Currently reading :
Who Rules America? Power, Politics, and Social Change
By G. William Domhoff