My New Hair Cut

Well, I finally got my hair cut. I have been needing one for a long time now, and now it is done. I prefer long hair, but I am loving my new hair cut.

The ponytail in the bag is a donation to Locks of Love, which I will be mailing this week. I love donating hair to them, and this will be my second time doing this.

I haven't had short hair in a long time, so this will get some getting used to, but I love how it looks. I can't wait to donate again, even though it'll be a few years before I can do it again. I wish hair didn't grow so slowly.

I figured I would get my hair cut for the new year, as my first ''change." Another change I want to work on is becoming more outgoing. I really hate being as shy as I am, and it's frustrating when I want to say something, but it's too painful for me to actually say it.

So, I want to work on that too.

Well, that's all for now. More to come later.

A Heart for Adoption

The priest at today's mass told us about an American soldier who was on duty in Iraq, and visited an orphanage in his free time. He had befriended a boy there, who had cerebral palsy. After a while, one of the sisters there told him that the boy would soon be too old to stay at the orphanage, and had to be moved to one ran by the government.

The man was attached to the boy, and had decided to try and adopt him. I have been wanting to adopt for years (this is a HUGE dream of mine that I hope is fulfilled someday), and hearing stories like this makes me want to adopt even more. Especially children with disabilities.

I wish I could adopt every orphan in the world, but I know that is impossible. I do want to have biological children too (2 boys and 2 girls), but adopting is a bigger dream of mine.

To me, it doesn't matter where the child is from, as long as I can give them a home, and a family. That is the best thing to give a child. A life. And that is what I want to do for as many children as possible (and as many as I am allowed to adopt).

I read a few blogs by people who have adopted children, and are in the process of adopting more. In reading their posts, I see how much joy is brought to the family with each new addition, and all the love.

That makes me wish to start a family of my own someday. I am at the age where I'm thinking about marriage and starting a family more and more, and hoping that it happens soon. But, I'm not in too much of a hurry at the moment, since I am going back to school, and I want to focus on that first.

Though, I can't wait for the moments to come, when I become a wife, and then a mother. Those are the two biggest moments that would give me the most joy and happiness. I absolutely love children.

Well, that's all for now. More to come later.

New Year's Hair Cut

I have decided that I will get a major hair cut this weekend, for New Year's. I need to get rid of the split ends, and I also wanted a change.

Although I prefer long hair, I like short hair too. I will be donating my hair to Locks of Love, and the bulk of the length of my hair will be going to that.

I have been wanting to do this for ages, but just never got around to actually doing it. I donated to Locks of Love about 4 or 5 years ago, and have wanted to do it again.

Locks of Love is an amazing organization, and I love what they are doing. I can't wait to get this haircut (this is a rare thing for me to say, since I do NOT like getting them).

I can't believe New Year's is only 3 days away. Where has the time gone? 2012 has been a pretty good year overall. Nothing bad has happened, which is nice.

I hope 2013 is going to be a great year. Especially with me going back to school. This haircut is perfect for going back, since I haven't been back in a couple years. I actually miss school, which is something I may have never said before.

I finally found something I enjoy doing, so school is more enjoyable for me. Before I took time off, I was getting straight A's in my classes, which I don't think I have ever done before.

I am looking forward to these new changes, and I hope more come along (good changes, of course). I hope everyone is having a wonderful holiday season, and I wish you a happy and safe New Year!

Eight Months of Volunteering

It has been eight months since I started volunteering at the library, and I absolutely love it. The people I volunteer with are awesome, and the people I deliver materials to are great.

I am so thankful that I got the opportunity to do this volunteer work. I have met some wonderful people, and it gets me out of the house every Friday.

Because of this volunteering opportunity, I have come out of my shell a little, and am talking a little more to people, which I really needed. I've been wanting to become more outgoing for a while now.

This holiday season, I have been given money, cards, and sweets to celebrate the holidays. It was really nice, and I love how the patrons we deliver to say that they really appreciate what we do for them.

I can't believe it has been eight months already. Time has passed by way too fast. But I enjoy what I do, and hope to do this for as long as I can.

Well that's all for now. More to come later.

Merry Christmas!

For those who celebrate, merry Christmas! I hope it is filled with joy, peace, and enjoyment!

Yesterday, my dad and I went to my sister's house to celebrate. My brothers had to work, so they couldn't come (I think they should have gotten the day off). My niece and nephew absolutely loved their presents, which was great.

We decorated some Christmas cookies (stockings, snowmen, gingerbread men, and candy canes), which I absolutely love doing. I am an avid baker, so baking and decorating cookies are right up my alley.

My sister and brother-in-law made a dinner of tortellini (my favorite pasta!), sauerkraut, rolls, and pork. It was a really good dinner. We opened presents afterwards. I got a DVD (the second Anne of Green Gables DVD), and a Caribou Coffee gift card.

My niece and nephew played with their presents after opening them. I had fun.

When we got home, my dad, brothers and I opened up some more presents while watching A Christmas Story, which is one of my favorite holiday movies.

I got the second and third Hunger Games books, the Hunger Games cookbook (yes, there is such a thing), a gift card to Barnes and Noble, some Ghirardelli and Godiva chocolate, The Hunger Games DVD, Breaking Dawn Part 1 DVD, and a CD by Jonathan Antoine and Charlotte Jaconelli (they were finalists on Britain's Got Talent).

I didn't get everything on my list, but that's fine with me. I'm happy with what I got. Yesterday was a great day, spent with the ones I love.

Today, my dad and I went to our church's Christmas mass. It was really nice. I found out afterwards that one of the volunteers from the library goes to the same church I do, which is awesome (I volunteer at the library, and the people I volunteer with are really nice people).

When we got home, my dad saw that I got a Christmas present from a neighbor family I am friends with. They gave me some Ghirardelli chocolate (yep, more chocolate!), a Christmas mug with a snowman on it, bath stuff, and a couple combs and a brush. These things will definitely be getting some use in the future.

Either this week, or next week, I am planning on getting a haircut, and donate some hair to Locks of Love. If you aren't familiar with them, Locks of Love makes wigs out of donated hair, for children with serious illnesses, who lose their hair.

I absolutely love organizations like Locks of Love. They make people feel good about themselves, when they are sick. It is so amazing what they do. I donated hair once, about 4 or 5 years ago. My hair grows fast, which I like.

Even though I love long hair, and don't like getting hair cuts, I would get a hair cut if I can donate to organizations like this.

Well, that is all for now. I hope you have a wonderful, blessed holiday season!!

Hobbits, Volunteering, and Holiday Fun

I hope everyone is enjoying the holidays this season! I am, which is good, considering the last couple weren't that great.

On Wednesday, I went to see The Hobbit with one of my brothers. It was awesome!! If you like/love the Lord of the Rings series, you will like/love The Hobbit.

I also made the dough for sugar cookies. The recipe I called for was for 2 dozen cookies, but I was planning on giving some to some of the people I deliver library stuff to, as well as giving some to friends and family, so I decided to double the recipe, since two dozen isn't enough.

Yesterday, I baked the cookies (into holiday shapes) while watching a movie (Eclipse). It took me a couple hours to bake it all, but it was worth it. I LOVE baking, so I don't mind how long it took to make the cookies.

Today, I volunteered at the library, delivering library materials to those who can't come to the library. One of the people I deliver to gave me a bar of chocolate from Trader Joe's (it is really good chocolate!), and another gave me a couple dollars, because I was delivering in the cold weather.

This is why I volunteer. People really do appreciate what we do, and we don't go unnoticed. I have been doing this for just about eight months (it will be eight months next Friday). I really enjoy what I do, and the people I volunteer with are really nice, which makes it all the more enjoyable.

On Monday, I am going to my sister's to celebrate Christmas. We are going to have a Christmas dinner, and then open presents. I love seeing her and her family (she is married, with two children, a boy and a girl).

One Tuesday, my dad is making a Christmas dinner, and then we are going to open more presents.

So, all in all, this holiday is good so far. I am happy, and that is awesome!

If you celebrate Christmas, I hope you have a wonderful Christmas, and a safe one too. Don't focus too much on the presents, but on time spent with loved ones. And remember the real reason for the season!

Well, that's all for now. More to come later.

Blogger Day of Silence

In Loving Memory

Angels of God

Taken before your time

By a senseless act of violence

Shot at school by a gunman

Innocent lives taken

By a troubled man

Family, Friends, Classmates, Community, Nation

All shocked

Hurting

Mourning

Life will never be the same

For those affected by this tragedy

Our hearts and prayers go out

To those of Newtown, Connecticut

wonder why something like this

Would ever happen

Especially at a school

But we may never know the answer

But we do know

That those who were killed by this man

Are now angels of God

Living in Heaven

We all will move on stronger than ever

And we will never forget what happen

Nor will we forget the children and adults

That are now in Heaven

Support for the Connecticut Shooting

I got the information for this from a friend's blog, but for some reason, when I posted about it, it didn't work very well, so here is the link to her blog, if you would like the information on the Day of Blogger Silence that she posted about.

Please, please, please help. This is very important. Thank you.

Blogger Day of Silence

To The Blog World and Anyone Else Who Wants to Help,

Yesterday, tragedy struck so many of us in ways we did not forsee. An elementary school and small town in Connecticut was shattered by a mass shooting. We knew we wanted to help and we came up with this:




On Tuesday, December 18th, there will be a blogger day of silence.
We will post the button and that's it. Please try not to post anything else that day if possible.

We are also raising money that will go to an organization in the memory of this tragedy. The organization is called The Newtown Family Youth and Family Services. Here is the official desciption of the support service we are donating to:

"Newton Family Youth and Family Services, Inc. is a licensed, non-profit mental health clinic and youth services bureau dedicated to helping children and families achieve their highest potential. NYFS provides programs, services, activities, counseling, support groups and education throught the Greater Newtown area.

ANY DONATIONS MADE TO NEWTOWN YOUTH AND FAMILY SERVICES WILL BE DONATED DIRECTLY TO THOSE EFFECTED BY THE SANDY HOOK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SHOOTING."

Please visit THIS PAGE to make your donation.

We can't imagine how they must be feeling, especially this close to the holidays. We would love for you to spread the word on your own blog,  Facebook, Twitter, etc. Let's make a difference and use blogging in a positive way. Thank you in advance for participating.

Love,
The Blog World

p.s. If you would like to copy-paste and repost any part of this, please do. Share on.

So Sad

I found out today that there was a shooting at a Connecticut elementary school. Around 10 or so children were among those killed.

Here is the story, if you would like to read more about it. Please pray for those affected by this horrific incident.

I don’t understand why someone would do such a thing. Especially to children. None of these victims derserve what happened. It saddens me that there are still people like this.

I will definitely be praying for the victims.

I Am the Birthday Girl Today!!!

Well, today is my birthday!! I can't believe it's here already. Time went by so fast.

The day has been good so far. I volunteered at the library this morning (which I LOVE doing!!), a few of the library staff and volunteers sung happy birthday to me, I got a couple of birthday cards (one from my dad, and one from one of the other volunteers), I got a few cupcakes from one of the volunteers, and a patron that I deliver library materials to gave me a Christmas card, and $10.

So, it has been a good day so far. I don't know what else I am going to do today, and this weekend. I might go see a movie, though. I haven't decided yet.

I'm at the age now where I don't really need to have a party or celebration, but I will celebrate with friends and family if I think of something to do.

I am not asking for anything for my birthday this year. I don't really need anything. People can get me something if they want, but they don't have to, and I'm not asking them to get me anything.

So, all in all, I'm having a good birthday.

Well, that's all for now. More to come later.

Eager for School to Start

This past Friday, I went to school, to get things sorted out. I had a counseling restriction to take care of, which I did take care of. I then signed up for one class, Nutrition, and it is all paid for now.

I am only taking one class in the spring because I haven't been to school in a long time (for personal reasons), and I wanted to slowly get back into a school routine. I might take two classes either in the summer or fall semester, and work from there.

Even though I love the holidays, and always look forward to them every year, I actually wish they were over already, and that school has started. This is the very first time I like school, and am looking forward to it, so saying that is very rare for me.

My major in school is Hospitality, focusing on baking, which is why I am taking a Nutrition class.

It will be weird being back, since I haven't been to school in so long, but I am ready to be back. I need this.

The class I am taking is every Thursday from 9 am to 11 am, and it starts on January 24th. I little over a month away. That's too long a wait for me, but I will wait nonetheless.

Well, that's all for now. More to come later.

The Holiday Decorations Are Up

Yesterday my dad and I put up the Christmas decorations, and it looks really good. The last couple of years I didn't want to put them up, because I was down. But this year, I was in a good enough mood to want to help put them up.

My favorite decoration is the manger we have. I'm not sure how old it is, but it's probably 30 years old, maybe. I absolutely love it, and I hope I can keep it for myself someday. It has the three wise men, Mary, Joseph, the baby Jesus, another man who I'm not sure what he is, and a few animals.

I am planning on putting up a few decorations in my bedroom as well. My sister gave me a Christmas stocking a few years ago, that she made. It is a black and white cow pattern, and I love it. I have it up on my door already.

I also have a couple different mini trees that I will put up soon, and some ornaments to go with them as well. I might put up tinsel if I can find it.

I love seeing all the decorations that are up all round town. People in my town have some really cool stuff, and it's fun looking at all of it.

On Christmas Eve, we are going to my sister's place, to celebrate. I love visiting her and her family. She has two children, a boy and a girl, who I absolutely adore. I love seeing their faces and reactions as they open their presents. It's awesome!

No matter what you celebrate, I hope you have a wonderful, safe holiday season!

I Am Going Back to School!!

Today, shortly after I finished volunteering at the library, I went to school to figure out my schedule. I had a counseling restriction that wouldn't let me sign up for classes until I got it taken care of. So, I went to school and talked to a counselor.

Now, I am signed up for one class, Nutrition, for the spring semester. I'm only doing one class because I haven't been to school for quite a while (two years), for personal reasons, and I've been ready to go back for a while.

For the first time ever, I can say that I am excited to be going back. I actually miss being in school, even though I never really did well before, and because I am really shy. Hopefully, I can change all that this time. I don't like getting bad grades, and I don't like being as shy as I am.

After I signed up for my class, I went to the disability services center to apply for a couple services (I have a learning disability, and need help in class sometimes), and the director actually remembered me, even though I haven't been to school in so long.

I was kind of surprised by that, but it was really nice that she remembered me. We talked a little bit after I signed up for services, and then I went home. So, today was a productive day for me.

Well, that's all for now. More to come later.

My 2012 Holiday Wishlist

I hope everyone is having a wonderful holiday season! I don't really care much about the presents this year, but I made a list anyway, and here it is:

1. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 for PlayStation 3
2. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 for PlayStation 3
3. Together by Jonathan and Charlotte (CD)
4. The Unofficial Hunger Games Cookbook: From Lamb Stew to "Groosling"--More Than 150 Recipes Inspired by The Hunger Games Trilogy by Emily Ansara Baines
5. Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins
6. Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins
7. Anne of Green Gables the Sequel (DVD)
8. Anne of Green Gables the Continuing Story (DVD)
9. The Hunger Games (DVD)
10. Breaking Dawn Part 1 (DVD)
11. Gift card(s) to Barnes and Noble, Old Navy, Walgreens, CVS, Caribou Coffee, or Bed Bath and Beyond

What are you wishing for this holiday season? Whatever you do, I hope you have a wonderful time!

Winter Fest 2012

Today was my town's Winter Fest. They do this every year in December, and it's pretty fun. What happens is you buy a cookie tin, and go to different businesses, where they give you a treat. Including this year's fest, I've done this for the past four years or so.

They also have carolers, music, and of course, Santa. A couple times, I've gotten my picture taken with him. I don't know why, but I LOVE Santa! I guess I'm a kid at heart. This year's fest had a magician performing as well, and a girl scout troop singing songs. That was pretty cool.

A friend of mine and his mom went to the fest as well, so we hung out while doing the cookie walk. When we were done, we went to Subway for lunch. I had a chicken and bacon ranch melt with pepperjack cheese. It was good.

While I was with Santa, one of the people I delive library materials to had come over, recognized me, and asked to take a picture of her with Santa. I wasn't really expecting to see anyone I knew there, apart from my friend, but it was nice seeing her.

I love that my town has these sorts of gatherings. It's a lot of fun, and it brings people together.

I am looking forward to Christmas this year. Spending time with family, food, movies, music, and presents. Always a lot of fun.

I was going to put some pictures in this post, but for some reason, the photo upload thing isn't working, so as soon as I figure things out, I will post the pictures I took from today's Winter Fest.

Well, that's all for now. More to come later.

My Nail Polish Swap Goodies

A couple weeks ago, I got a package from my nail polish swap partner. There were two bottles of nail polish, a purple color, and a glittery silver one. There was also a bottle of hand lotion and a naile file. I have already used the purple polish on my fingernails and absolutely love the color!! Here are a few pictures.

 

 

Thank you so much, Katlyn, for the stuff you sent me! I absolutely love it, and I plan on using the glitter nail polish for Christmas.

My Favorite Musical Artists Is Coming to Town

One of my favorite artists is coming to my town this weekend, and I really wish I could go. I saw on the website that that tickets range from $75 to $350. I don't have a job yet, and the money I do get is from odd jobs around the house.

The artist is Andrea Bocelli, and I have been wanting to meet him for a few years now. He has an amazing voice, and I am so glad I found out about him.

Although he sings mainly in Italian and Spanish, I love listening to his music. I have never met a musical artist before, and would really, really love to meet one.

If only the tickets for this upcoming concert weren't so expensive. Then I would be able to go to it. But that's alright. I'm sure he's going to have other concerts, that I might be able to go to.

Well, that's all for now. More to come later.

Movies, Birthdays, and Holidays

Yesterday, I saw Breaking Dawn Part 2 at the local theater. I think it is the best one out of the series. I absolutely loved it. I'm not going to give anything away, in case anyone hasn't seen it yet, but there is one scene in the movie, that's not in the book, so it was totally unexpected.

Today, I made lemon squares to take to my sister's for Thanksgiving. My dad asked me to make them, and I was happy to do that. I love to bake (emphasis on the word love), so I don't mind at all when someone asks me to bake something for them.

My dad, one of my brothers and I are going to visit my sister, who lives about an hour away from us, on Thanksgiving day. I can't wait. I get to see my niece and nephew again. They are the best niece and nephew I could ask for. Which makes me love being an aunt.

I am really looking forward to the holidays this year, which is nice. The last couple years, I haven't really been that excited about the holidays, since my mom wasn't alive to be there with us for them. But, I am slowly getting into the spirit again, which is also nice.

Tomorrow is my dad's birthday. I don't know if we're going to do anything to celebrate, since he doesn't really care for big celebrations, but I'm planning on baking him a cake, and giving him a card. He deserves something for his birthday.

My birthday is coming up next month, which I'm sort of excited about. I don't know what I want to do to celebrate, or if I want to do something. I have time to decide, though.

I can't believe it's the holiday season already. Time went by fast. Way too fast for me. Last week on Friday, I asked my dad to get me a Barnes and Noble gift card, so I can start ordering some presents for my family.

I had ordered a book for my dad, that he wants, and I think it will come by sometime next week. When that comes, I have six more people to shop for after that.

If my friends and I decide to give each other presents, I'm thinking of making them presents, instead of buying them stuff, mainly because I don't have a lot of money, and partly because I think they would like a handmade present more that a store-bought one. I definitely would.

Well, that's all for now. If you celebrate Thanksgiving, I hope you have a wonderful and thankful day! If not, enjoy the day regardless!

The World Needs More Love Letters

The title of this post may make you confused. Here's the explanation.

I was on Pinterest recently, and had found a post about something called "The World Needs More Love Letters." Curious, I clicked on it to see what it was about. It is where you leave an annonymous "love letter" in random places that you visit, to brighten someone's day. It doesn't have to be for someone you know, it can be for anyone.

If you would like more information, here is the link for the website. I hope you can find it in your heart to be selfless and kind to someone, especially since it's the holiday season. This is an amazing thing to do, and I will definitely be doing this, as many times as I can.

I am so glad that I came across this post, because I love how there are still people out there, who care for and about others.

Well, that's all for now. More to come later.

Fill-in-the-Blank Friday

1. My best quality is that I am a great listener for others who need someone to talk to.

2. One of my less flattering qualities is that I slouch a lot. I try to stand/sit up straight, but my back hurts after a while, which makes me uncomfortable, so I go back to slouching. I hate how I look when I slouch, and I really want to work on it.

3. I'd rather sleep, read a book, listen to music, bake, or craft something.

4. Something I have been challenged with lately is finding a job. The economy is in bad shape, and people aren't hiring as much, so I haven't been able to get a job yet.

5. I am looking forward to Thanksgiving and Christmas. I get to see my sister and her family, and I always have a good time with them.

6. A super random factoid about me is I have never been outside of the U.S. And I am very jealous of those who get to go to other countries.

7. I want to go back to school in the spring, to work on my Hospitality degree. I LOVE to bake, so I would love to be able to have a job where I get to bake.

Happy Friday!! I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!!

Me, Myself and I

I am shy,
But actions speak louder than words.
I may have a disability,
But I am not disabled. Just differently abled.
I do not know everything,
But I do know some things.
I may not do everything you can do,
But I can do some things you can’t do.
I will not conform to what everyone thinks I should be.
The only thing I can be is myself.
I will not let anyone tell me otherwise.
I have my own personality,
My own mind,
My own style,
My own life.
I will not act the way you want me to act,
Think or say what you want me to think or say.
I will not wear what you want me to wear.
I will not live my life the way you want me to live.
I am my own person,
And I will always be my own person.
Having a disability does not
Make me less of a human being.
It does not make me a freak,
A monster.
I am as human as anyone else.
And no one can say otherwise.
I have my own way
Of doing things,
And that’s the way
It will always be.
That is the way I like it.
I may take longer
To learn things than others,
But I am not stupid.
I may have faults,
But so does everyone else.
All of this makes me me

I Love Volunteering

Every Friday, I volunteer at the library, delivering materials to homebound people, and I absolutely love it.

I had missed volunteering last week, due to sleeping problems, and wasn't happy about that. But today, a couple of the people we deliver materials to said they missed me, and were glad to see me. Another person had given me $5 for Thanksgiving, which was surprisingly nice.

I didn't think I made that much of an impression on these people, but apparently have. Today's experience made me love volunteering even more.

It made me realize people really do appreciate volunteers, and this makes me feel really good. I'm doing something to help people out, and that's what life is about. Helping people who might not otherwise have help.

I have been volunteering with the homebound delivery program since May, and have loved every minute of it. I am so very glad I got the opportunity to do this.

If you are able to, please volunteer in your community, or abroad. Even if no one says anything, you really are appreciated. You are making a difference in the life of others (even animals), and it makes you feel good, knowing that you are helping out.

I am hoping to volunteer with this program as long as I can. I do have plans to go back to school, and to get a job, so until then, I will be volunteering. Or I may stay with this program, even with a job, and going to school. Everyone is really nice, and I would hate to leave, even though I know I don't necessarily have to stay.

But, it's fun, and I love it.

Well, that's all for now. More to come later.

Thankful Tree Craft

While reading a post from a blog I read, I got the idea for a "Thankful Tree." That is where you draw/create a tree shape (without leaves) from construction paper, and then glue it onto a piece of poster board.

Then, you make leaves out of construction paper, and write one thing you are thankful for, on each leaf. Then, you glue the leaves onto the tree, and then hang the poster board up. If you would like to read the post. here is the link for it.

It is a great idea, and I am so glad I read this blog. The woman whose blog this belongs to is an amazing woman, and has some great ideas. I am looking forward to the holidays this year, which I haven't been the last couple of years, since my mother's death.

I can't wait to get together with my family, and hang out. What are you all doing for the holidays? Whatever you celebrate, I hope you have a wonderful time, and remember the real reason for the holidays.

Well, that's all for now. More to come later.

Election Day 2012

Today is election day in the U.S. I did vote, but I am not saying who I voted for. That is a personal matter to me.

It feels good  to be able to vote on who gets to lead the country, although sometimes we may vote in the wrong person.

I love having the freedom to choose who to vote for, and if I want to vote. I know it's my right to vote, but it's not against the law not to vote.

But, if you are 18 or older, I suggest you DO vote. Every vote counts.

I can't wait to find out who becomes the next president of the United States.

I am so thankful to those women who fought for women's rights, because if it wasn't for them, me and many other women probably would not have been able to vote today.

Even though I voted, I am glad it's over where I live. It sometimes gets crazy on election day, and I always look forward to when it's over.

Voting is one of the ways you are able to support your country. I support my country 100%, even if I don't always agree with things that go on. Do you support your country?

Well, that's all for now. More to come later.

I Am...

Determined when I want to be.
Intelligent
Able
Nice
Extraordinary

Learning everyday

Gorgeous
Easy-going
Not going to let anything get me down.
Grateful for everyone and everything in my life.
Empathetic

And the Job Hunt Begins

The other day, I went to Trader Joe's to get a job application. I haven't filled it out yet, but I will definitely do so today. I really need a job, and soon. I don't know how many times I've sent in applications to a number of places. None of them have hired me, which has discouraged me for a while, from looking for a job.

I want to go back to school and the spring, and I would like to pay for at least half of it myself. I will ask my dad if he could pay for the other half.

I've had a couple jobs before, but they were temporary. I was in the work/study program my senior year of high school, and that was just for the school year. It was half a day, and I didn't make a whole lot, but it felt good earning money.

I have also had a couple babysitting jobs, but they didn't last. With one family, they were from France, and their visas were up after a while, so they had to move back to France. With the other family, it was just a temporary thing.

I really hope I get a job soon, but with the economy the way it is now, I doubt that will happen.

But, we'll see what happens. I really hope there will be an opening soon, and that I get a job.

Well, that's all for now. More to come later.

New CD Release

If you are familiar with the Britain's Got Talent show, you'll know that on the recent season, a 17-year-old duo named Jonathan Antoine and Charlotte Jaconelli won second place for their singing (I think they should have won first, they are that good!).

They got a recording contract after the show ended, and started working on a CD. They released their CD, called Together, in the UK on September 30th. Then, it was released today in the US. I am hoping to buy the CD within the next few weeks.

If you would like to see their audition for Britain's Got Talent, here is the link for it. They are so amazing, and I get blown away every time I watch it.

I have been following them ever since I saw their audition on Inside Edition (we don't get BGT here in the USA), and I am so glad that they got the chance to do what they are doing.

They did an interview for a US news show, and if you would like to watch that as well, here is the link to that.

I can't wait to get the CD and listen to it! They have amazing voices, and they are very down to earth people. I love them!!

Well, that's all for now. More to come later.

Operation Christmas Child

A few years ago, I first heard about the organization called Operation Christmas Child. It is where people can fill shoeboxes or plastic containers with presents for children, and then drop them off at a certain location, for them to be delivered to children who might otherwise not get anything for Christmas.

I have been wanting to do this ever since I heard about it, but have always missed the dates they do it. So, hopefully I can do it this year. It is in a couple weeks, and I may ask a few friends to help me out.

I don't know what I'll put in the box yet, but maybe I will put a little of everything in it, like toys, school supplies, accessories, and other things. I can't wait to be able to actually participate in Operation Christmas Child. I love giving, epsecially to children.

I love seeing the look on their faces getting a present, and getting something they want. And need. It makes me feel good.

If anyone wants more information on Operation Christmas Child, and to find out how to participate, here is the link to their website: http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/occ I hope you decide to participate; you won't regret it!

Well, that's all for now. More to come soon.

Self-Esteem and Self-Confidence

For as long as I can remember, I've had low self-esteem and self-confidence. I'm naturally a shy person, so being confident is an issue with me.

I have never willingly raised my hand in class to offer an answer or opinion. I have never gone up to someone and started talking to them.

I am afraid of speaking up, because someone might laugh or judge me for it. I don't like to draw attention to myself/be the center of attention.

I always doubt if I can really do what I set my mind out to do. I think I am not as smart as I can be/than I really am.

I prefer to be at home, where I am most comfortable. I love to read, write, use the computer, knit and crochet, things that don't require groups of people, or talking to people I don't know.

I was never the "popular" kid in school. I didn't have a lot of friends (I still don't). I never did well in school. I felt like I was stupid.

I prefer email, letters, texting, and social media to phone calls and face to face interactions.

It would be awesome if I was more outgoing, but doing things that are out of my comfort zone are agonizing for me, and that stinks. I hate not being comfortable in situations where I have to talk to people, especially people I don't know, or aren't friends with.

There are things about myself that I don't like, like my eyes, my feet, and my smarts. I kind of don't like other things about myself, but those three are the main ones I feel self-conscious of the most. And I hate that.

I hope I can get out of my shell more, and be happier with who I am. Then I wouldn't be so worried about things that aren't that important.

Well, that's all for now. More to come later.

A New Volunteer

Last week, the driver I volunteered with had had his last day of volunteering on Friday, because he is having both knees replaced. So, tomorrow there is going to be a new driver I will be going with.

Since I am used to the regular driver taking me around, I am uncomfortable with a new driver. I have to get used to a new person all over again. I will be shy, and awkward again, around the new person.

I hate feeling like that. The old driver brought me out of my shell a little, and now I'm going to retreat back into it again. I really wish I wasn't so shy all the time, around new people.

I hope this new driver is nice, because I don't want to have to stop volunteering just because a volunteer is rude, or mean.

I just realized that it will be six months tomorrow since I started volunteering. It's crazy. I can't believe I've been volunteering that long already. Like the saying goes, time flies when you're having fun!

Well, that's all for now. More to come later.

Life is a Journey

Life is a journey
We all go through.
No matter your age,
Race,
Gender,
Religion,
Nationality,
Or ability.
No two journeys
Are exactly alike.
We are all different
But also the same.
I may not look like you,
Act like you,
Talk like you,
Learn the same as you,
Wear the same clothes as you,
Or have the same skin color as you.
But I am a human being
Like you.
And I want to be treated like one.
I am my own person,
And no one can change that.
We all have our own experiences in life,
And no one can take that away.
We all experience things in life
Whether they are happy or sad.
We experience every emotion,
Every feeling,
Every thought.
We all have different points of views.
We all have different likes and dislikes.
We all have different ways of expressing ourselves.
Whether it be words,
Clothing,
Jewelry,
Pictures,
Paintings,
Writings,
Or Films.
That is what makes us all
Different and unique.
We may not be able to do something
Someone else can.
But we can do something
They can’t.
We can feel for others
With disabilities.
We can stand up for them
When they, or others
Won’t or can’t.
They can always
Depend on us,
And we can always
Depend on them.
We can lift them up
When they’re down.
And they can lift us up
When we are down.
We can’t always be there for someone
In person.
But we can always be there
In spirit.
We all go through
Good times,
And bad times.
Happy times,
And sad times.
But we have friends and family
Who are there for us
Through it all.
All of this
Is what makes life
A journey.

The Child in Me

This past Friday, I had gone over to a friend's house for pumpkin carving/painting, one thing I absolutely love doing. Getting to be creative with a pumpkin is pretty cool.

I absolutely love arts and crafts, which means there is a child within me. And I love that. That means I won't always take life seriously, and that simple things in life are always the best.

My favorite "simple" things to to are read, write, color with crayons, markers, colored pencils and paint, and have fun in the outdoors.

People tend to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of work and raising a family and all that other stuff, that they don't take the time to enjoy the simple things in life, which is sad.

I mean, I know people have to work, and take care of their family, but that's all they focus on these days. Which is sad.

I hope people realize someday that life isn't all about working all the time, and "just" raising a family. It's also about having fun, and enjoying the simplest of things.

Life is too short to be working all the time, and being serious every second of every day. Go out and have fun. Live. Don't shut yourself from the good things.

Well, that's all for now. More to come later.

Darkness of the Day

My mind races
My eyes are
Swimming with tears.
I can't fall asleep
And I can't calm down.
I listen to Christian music
As I write this
To calm me down.
I am away from home.
I miss my family,
My cats
My room.
This is only for a few days
But it seems like forever
To me.
Although I love it here,
And that I have
A roommate to talk to,
I want to be home
Right now.
I will st ick it out
And pray to God
That He guides me,
And comforts me.
I really want to be here,
Among friends.
These are people like me
And they understand
What I am going through.
When I go through this,
It freels like
Nothing matters anymore,
That there is no point
In doing anything anymore.
In the end,
I feel better
When I let the tears flow,
And when I let
My feelings out.
And I feel
Like living again.
But the next night,
It starts all over again.
And I get frustrated
That it won't stop.


This was written in July 2010, while I was at a disability summit leadership. I was having a panic attack one of the days I was there, which is why this poem is written this way.

Fill-in-the-Blank Friday

1. One thing I plan on doing to relax this weekend is pumpkin carving tonight at a friend's house. Saturday and Sunday, I have to big plans, although I may go to a sale at a local thrift shop.

2. A big pet peeve of mine is when drivers go into the right lane, for turning right, and right when the light turns green, they speed up ahead of you, just so they can save time. You can't wait just a few seconds longer? Or stay in the lane you were in, to go straight?

3. I am really loving the beauty of fall. Many different colors, the cool air, holiday decorations.

4. The rain is great. I love it when it rains, except when it's cold out. Luckily, the recent rain we got was on warm days, so it wasn't so bad.

5. My favorite girly indulgence is chocolate, of course!

6. A song that I always get stuck in my head is nothing at the moment. I can't think of a song that's recently been on my mind a lot.

7. The best cure for stress is time with animals. I have two cats that I love hanging out with. They love being by me, and they always make me smile or laugh every day.

My Beloved Kitty

To my beloved Kitty
You left the world today.
It hurt to see you go
But I know
You are in a better place.
It hurt even more
When you kept looking at me
With those big yellow eyes.
I will love you
And miss You always.
You had a good life
Here on Earth,
And will have a good life
Up in Heavan.
I will miss it
When you follow me around,
When you beg for food,
When you lay on my lap,
When you sneak outside when the door is open,
When you curl up
On one of your favorite spots.
I will miss it
When you watch the birds and squirrels,
When you run around the place,
Just for no reason at all.
You were my best friend,
And it will be hard to get over you.

*Written on September 25, 2009
We had her since she was abou 6 weeks old, and was 16 when we had to put her down. So it was very hard on me. She was my best friend in the animal world.

Untitled

As I sit here on the porch,
Listening to birds chirping,
I try to come up
With a poem.
The sky slowly darkens
With the approach of rain,
The thunder sounds
In the distance.
A car drives by,
going to some unknown destination.
A man walks by
With purpose in his step.
The rain suddenly pours down,
As if the heavens open up.
Everything becomes wet,
Muddy, and dreary.
Birds take shelter in trees,
And I take shelter
Inside my home.
The rain lasts only a
short while.
The birds come out again,
Some feeding on the seeds
in the bird feeder.
I go back out to the porch,
And listen to the birds.
A bird is bathing
In the rain at the side
of the street.
The rain drips off of
branches and buildings.
I listen to a plane
flying by,
and the cars go by.
The sun comes back
Out to greet me.
Another man walks by,
With an umbrella in his hand.
I think about the
Brief moment of rain,
And how things can
Change in an instant.
The birds chirping,
Rabbits hopping by.
People out for a walk
Or drive.
Don’t take anything for granted.
It could all be gone
In an instant.
Treasure things in life,
big and small.
Life may seam dreary
And depressing at times,
But it is all worth it.
No matter what we go through,
The sun will come out
In the end.
As I sit here on the porch,
Listening to the birds chirping,
I try to come up
With a poem.
This is what results
From a mind at work


This was written in the summer of 2010.

Fall Fun & Unusually Warm Weather

Well, the Fall fun has begun. The other weekend, I went to a fall fest at a local community college. They had jewelry making, mask decorating, a pumpkin patch, food, mazes, and a few other fun things to do. I was able to get a pumpkin for myself (and it was free!), which was good.

I also made a couple different necklaces, and decorated a mask. I had a good time overall.

This past Saturday, a friend and I went to the movies, because they were having a free showing of Gumby the Movie. I love Gumby, so I was happy to go, when my friend invited me to it.

While getting our tickets, there was a guy out front dressed as Gumby, greeting all the children that were coming to see the movie. It was pretty cool.

After the movie, we went to an elementary school, because they were hosting a fall fest. It was fun. They had games, which were geared toward elementary school-age kids (of course), food, two pie-throwing contests (where a kid could throw a pie at two teachers), a raffle, and pumpkins.

I got another pumpkin, which I am happy about. Yes, I now have two pumpkins. That just means I can be twice as creative for Halloween. And I LOVE being creative.

This Friday, I am volunteering in the morning, and then going over to a friend's house, for their annual pumpkin carving night. I love going to it. Pumpkin carving/painting, food, talking, maybe a little music...it's a fun night.

I haven't decided whether or night I will dress up for Halloween, but I have time to decide that.

Today, I saw Frankenweenie in theaters. It was really good. I love going to the movies, even though I have to spend $6 to $8 for tickets, which is crazy.

I sometimes go alone, which I don't mind doing. At all. I don't know why, really. I guess it's because I don't have to "plan." I don't have to call/text/email/whatever, to see if anyone is available, and then plan anything for before or afterwards.

I know I can plan "on a whim," with friends or family, but people don't always like doing anything more than a movie. So, I usually go to the movies alone. Which is fine with me.

The last few days, it has been around the low sixties, and it's fall. I don't remember it ever been this warm in October, for this many days. It's crazy, but I like it. I'm a warm weather person, so this is nice. Although, about half the time, it has been raining. But, I love the rain as well, so I'm not bothered about that.

So, I'm pretty happy right now.

Oh, I just remembered. The other day, my oldes brother called, just to say hi and see how we are doing. He lives halfway across the country, and I haven't seen him for quite a while. So, it was nice to hear from him.

He's doing good, although he's working a lot. But he told me he's going to Hawaii in January, which I am extremely jealous about. I've always wanted to go to Hawaii (who doesn't?), and I wish I could go with him.

I hope I get to see my brother and sister-in-law sometime soon, because I miss them. A lot. I haven't seen them for a couple of years.

I know that people can live wherever they want, but I just wish my brother didn't live so far away, so I can see him and his wife more often. I love hearing from them, though.

Well, that's all for now. More to come soon.

Missing You

As time passes

The pain lessens a little

But I think about you

More and more.

I miss you

And everything you were.

A wife

A mother

A grandmother

A sister

A daughter

An aunt

Loving

Strong

Beautiful

I miss you more now

More than ever.

I may have

More life ahead of me

But I can’t wait

Until I get to see you again.

I wish you were around

To see me finish school.

To see me get married

And have a family of my own.

To come to birthday parties,

And holiday gatherings.

But I know that you are watching

From Heaven.

I just wish I had my best friend back.

My mom back.

Dreaming of you

Only makes the longing

Of having you back

Intensify.

I know you had to go

But I need you.

Still.

The dreams are not enough.

You left us way too soon.

I need you.

We need you.

I miss you, mom.

I love you.

And I can’t wait to see you again.

 

 

(This poem was written shortly after my mom died in November 2010.)

Fill-in-the-Blank Friday

1. My favorite flower is pretty much every flower. I don't have a particular favorite.
2. You should never talk about what people should and shouldn't do, in a lot of situations. They can (usually) figure out what is right and wrong
3. My favorite discovery of late is that I'm good at crocheting. I've been taking classes at my church, and right from the beginning I've been able to catch on pretty quickly. I am currently working on a fall shawl that they gave me the pattern for. So far, it looks really good. I can't wait to finish it!
4. This fall you will probably find me wearing jeans and sweaters.
5. I wish I were a teacher or teacher's aide right now. I love children, so this would be a great job for me to have.
6. My favorite TV show currently is American Pickers. I love the places to go to, and what they buy/sell. It's interesting to see a part of the past still alive today.
7. This weekend I want to relax, and work on the shawl I am crocheting.

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

Loving Yourself-Special Talents

What special talents do you have?

The only thing I can call a "special talent" is baking, but I'm not that great yet.

I am hoping to go back to school for my baking degree in the spring. I've loved to bake since elementary school. It's one of my biggest passions.

Although, I guess you can say that another "special talent" I have is being able to roll my tongue. I've been able to do that for as long as I can remember.

Dreaming of a Job

Last night, I had a dream that I was at the local library, and the head of the library told me I had been hired there, which made me really happy.

I really hope I get a job, and soon. I need the money. And something else to do. I don't have a lot going on during the week, so I am bored a lot.

I haven't had a job in quite a while, and I actually kind of miss working. It is kind of interesting having a dream about working at the library, because I would love it if I got a job there. I volunteer there, so it would be nice to do more than just that at the library.

A lot of people who work there know me already, and I know them, through my mom, so I have an advantage there. When my mom was alive, she worked there, and included me in some of the library activities, which I actually enjoyed.

Plus, the library is close by, so I don't have to rely on public transportation to get me there. I can drive in bad weather, and walk in good weather.

So, I'm hoping this dream comes true. I have had only one of my dreams (dreams I've had while sleeping) come true, so it would be cool if it happened again.

Well, that's all for now. More to come later.

Fall Fun

Earlier this afternoon, I went to a fall fest at a local community college. It was pretty fun. They had a pumpkin patch, a couple mazes, face painting, food, jewelry making, and other things. I was able to get a pretty good size pumpking, that’s in good shape. I can’t wait to carve/paint it for Halloween!

I haven’t been to school in a while, for personal reasons, so it was weird being at school again and not going to classes. But I had a good time. My dad had said he may go to it next year. I think he would like it, if he went.

I absolutely love fall. The changing colors in the leaves, the cooler weather (especially since the heat wave we had for about half the summer), the festivities going on, and the decorations popping up.

I haven’t decided if I’m going to dress up for Halloween, but I will probably give out candy. I love seeing all the costumes the children wear. I remember one Halloween where a boy dressed up as a candy vending machine. It was awesome!

Well, that’s all for now. More to come later

Fill-in-the-Blank Friday

1. The last thing I ate was a granola bar this morning, before going to the library to volunteer.
2. The last time I went to the beach was in 2004, when I visited my oldest brother. He took me to the beach for a couple hours or so, since I've never been to that state before (California).
3. My last vacation was in 2011. Although, I don't know if it really counts as a vacation, since I had to go out of state for a funeral.
4. The last place I drove was nowhere. I don't drive yet, so I can't really drive anywhere. I'm hoping to get my license by next summer, though.
5. The last song I listened to was Losing by Tenth Avenue North. It's about what we go through in life, and that we are always forgiven by God.
6. The last thing I watched on TV was this morning's news.
7. The last time I said "I love you" was a couple days ago, to my dad. I said it just because I love him (of course).

Have a wonderful Friday!

Wishing on a Wedding

For the last several days, I have been looking at wedding ideas on Pinterest, and it is making me wish I was getting married.
Even though I don't even have a boyfriend yet. I am getting closer to 30, and I really want to be in a relationship before then.
After my mother died in 2010, I thought about doing some sort of tribute or something like that, to remember her at my wedding.
I haven't been thinking too much about the big day, but I want to have the wedding at my church, and the honeymoon in Hawaii.
I have always wanted to go to Hawaii, so that's why I want to go there for the honeymoon.
Seeing the ideas on Pinterest is inspiring me to think about my future, and what I want to do. Right now, I'm not really doing anything to prepare for my future, and I feel bad about it.
I want to finish school (Hospitality/baking and teaching/teacher's aide), get a job, move into my own place, and then figure out what to then.
I really need to get myself going with the first step in all of this, but I don't have the motivation. I don't know what to do. But, I'll figure something out. Hopefully soon.
I am nervous about all that I need to do, but I am excited to get going. I want to do my part in the community, and the world, and I can't wait to get started. I hope my friends and family will support me in what I want to do.
Even though I really, really, really want to get married, I know it won't be for a while, and at the moment, I'm ok with that. There are other things I can do, while I wait for my time to come to get married.
Well, that's all for now. More to come later.

Social Sunday

1. What do you miss most about being a kid?
Recess at school, being a girl scout, less worries, play doh, weekend morning cartoons.

2. Did you have a nickname growing up? What was it?
The only one I know of is Di.

3. What was your favorite thing to do at the recess?
Playing tag, and swinging on the swings.

4. What did you want to be when you grew up?
A police officer, but then it changed to teacher.

5. What was your favorite toy?
This Barbie caravan that opened up along the middle. One of my parents got rid of it after a while, because it broke (I think), and I wasn't happy about that. I'm still not.

6. What was the funniest thing you did as a kid that your parents still remind you about?
Neither of them have reminded me of something I did for quite some time now.

Fill-in-the-Blank Friday

1. My first memory is having chicken pox when I was a year old, though it's a very vague memory.
2. My first love is non-existent. Though, I know it will come someday. Hopefully soon.
3. My very first favorite color was purple, and it still is.
4. The first time I really felt like a "grown up" was when I started college. I was able to choose the classes I want to take, how many to take, and when to take them. It made me feel like I can do things on my own now.
5. The first thing I do in the morning is wake up to music, and listen for a while.
6. The first cd I bought was a Charlotte Church CD.
7. My first car is yet to be bought. I don't have a license, so I can't really have my own car. I don't see the point of having a car if I don't have a license yet, but I do have a car that I can borrow if I need to, so I don't need me own car for a while.

Happy Friday!!

Loving Yourself

From the book Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul Journal

Make a list of all the things you don't like about yourself.

• My eyes
• My feet
• My skin
• My hair
• My shyness
• My lack of confidence
• My pracrastinator side
• My impatient side (although I'm getting better with this one)
• Not being good at math
• My stage fright
• My unhealthy eating habits
• My having trouble sleeping

Loving Yourself

Last night, I was looking through a book I recently bought, called Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul Journal. It has pages of questions and prompts for you to answer, and they were pretty interesting. Even though I'm not a teenager anymore, these questions and prompts can easily be adapted to adults. I figured I would answer them on here.

The book is separated into categories, and the first one is called Loving Yourself. Here is the first prompt, and my answer to it:

Make a list of all the things you like about yourself.

• My caring side
• My love for children
• My love for animals
• My crafty side
• My love for books and writing
• My sensitive side
• My love for baking
• My laid back side
• The teacher in me
• My love for helping people, animals
• My love for travel
• My compassion
• My love for photography

Social Sunday

1. What is something you have wanted to do but are afraid to do?
Take self-defense classes. I'm a very shy person, so I don't like doing things that involve people watching me, while I perform whatever needs to be done. But, I really want to take self-defense classes so I know how to defend myself, and so I can be more outgoing.

2. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Hopefully with degrees in special education and hospitality/baking. Maybe even teaching as well. Or at least job interviews for teaching positions.

3. What are you looking forward to before the end of the 2012?
I am looking forward to hopefully getting my license before I go back to school. I've been wanting to get it for a long time, but things came up that prevented me from getting it. So, hopefully I'll get it before the year is over.

4. What are your hopes for your blog?
My hopes for my blog are that I can write what's on my mind, and hopefully people can help me figure things out if I need help, or get encouragement if I need that.

5. Do you always see yourself living in the same city or town?
No, because I have lived in the same city all my life, and would like a change of scene. But I do plan on visiting every once in a while.

6. What is your morning routine?
I wake up, eat breakfast, use the computer, watch a little tv. And if it is Friday morning, I volunteer at the library, delivering materials to those who can't come for whatever reason.

Have a wonderful Sunday everyone!!

Sunday Social

1) 5 items you can't live without on a daily basis (water, food, shelter and clothes don't count).
Music-it calms me down, relaxes me at night.
My phone-It helps me connect with people who I don't get to see very often.
Computer-same as phone.
My journal-I can write what I can't say out loud, so I don't have to be thinking about something all the time, to the point where it stresses me out.
Books-I can go into a completely different world, if I want to get away from mine for a while.
     
2) All time favorite book? Why?
I don't relly have a favorite book. There are many books that I really like.

3) Something you'd like to accomplish before the end of 2012?
Getting my driver's license. I've been wanting it for a long time, and I am really to go through the process of getting it.

4) If you could go back and relive one year of your life?
Hmmm....there isn't really a year I want to relive.

5) What do you wish people knew without you having to tell them?
That it is difficult for me to speak up for myself, and that I am well aware of how I look, and of myself. That I am a human being, just like they are. I am not a freak, or stupid, or a creep.

This Past Week's Goings-On

A few things happened this week. First, I dyed my hair an auburn color on Monday. It didn’t come out quite as I expected, but it’s not bad. I’ve never had my hair dyed before, so I had some apprehensions. But, I like it.

Thursday, I went to Walgreens to pick up pictures that I had ordered, and noticed that they had put out their Halloween stuff. So after I paid for my pictures, I went over to the Halloween aisle to see what they had.

I noticed that a section of the stuff was on clearance already, and they had just put the stuff out. I thought that was crazy, but it was nice. I bought some stuff for Halloween as well.

I also went to my church’s first crochet class. I have been a knitter for over a year, and have wanted to learn to crochet as well. So when the church was offering these classes, I signed up right away.

The first class went well. I seemed to pick it up pretty easily. I can’t wait to start making things, using crochet patterns. I am a crafty person, so I try to make things as often as I can. I can’t wait for the next class.

Friday, I volunteered at the library, delivering library materials for those who aren’t able to come to the library for whatever reason. I absolutely love what I am doing.

I get to see some great people, who have told me on several occasions that they appreciate what I am doing. It makes me feel good to know that I’m doing something good for others.
I am so thankful to have this opportunity. I’ve been volunteering since May, and I have come to love it.

Yesterday, I went to the Economy Shop with a friend. It is a resale shop that I love. They always have some great stuff, at great prices.

I got a couple skirts, a few tops, a popsicle mold, a lantern decoration thing, a thing of fabric, and some wrapping paper. I’m happy with everything I got. I hope I get to go to the next sale. I always love seeing what they have.

After the sale, I went to church with my dad. It was kind of hard to listen to the mass, because a couple kids were being noisy, but it wasn’t too bad. The mother of the children had recognized me from the crochet class, and said hi to me, which I thought was nice.

So, all-in-all, it was a pretty good week. I hope more things happen in the future, because I am bored a lot of the time.

There are a few things I’m planning on doing within the next few weeks. One is to get a haircut, which I really need.

Another thing is to go to school, to get things sorted out, so I can go back in the spring. I am going to continue with the hospitality degree I started, and I also want to add another degree as well. I am planning on also going for special education.

I want to be a special education teacher, because I myself have a disability, and can relate to others in some way. I also love children, so this would be good for me.

I am also hoping to go to the DMV soon, to get my permit. I had something come up, that made me lose interest in wanting to drive. But, now I am ready to get back into it. I want to get my license, so I can be more independent, and so I don’t have to wait for public transportation.

I am also going to start job hunting. Again. I don’t know how many times I’ve applied for jobs in the last couple of years. No one has contacted me about work. It has made me frustrated, and that makes me not want to keep going with looking for a job.

But, I will keep going anyway. I need a job, and soon.

Well, that’s all for now. More to come later.

Fill in the Blank Friday

Happy Friday everyone!!

1. Right now the weather where I live is cool but nice. It's also sunny and almost cloudless. This is my favorite kind of weather.
2. The best piece of advice I have ever been given is that I have what it takes to do the things I want to do, and that I shouldn't be afraid to go for it.
3. My most favorite person in the world is a guy friend who I have known since junior high (12 or 13 years!!). We have gotten together a ton over the years, and I feel comfortable being myself around him. Comfortable to be more outgoing. I am very thankful to have him in my life.
4. If I were to have a mission statement for my life it would be Never give up, and never let anyone bring you down. Life is precious.
5. My favorite item in my closet is this pretty black and white flowery dress I recently got at a yard sale. It fits me well, and I absolutely love it.
6. The best cure for a bad day is a chat with a good friend, a comfortable book, music, and/or a comfortable bed. And my cats.
7. Today is a beautiful day. I am so thankful to be alive today, and every day I get after this.

Thankful Thursday

Today I am thankful for...

• My church for the experiences they offer everyone. I am taking a crochet class at church, that starts today. I have been wanting to learn to crochet for a while, and this is perfect.
• each day that I get to live. I get to experience new things every day.
• Photography. I get to be creative, to express myself in a way that's comfortable for me. And a way that I love. I am always looking for the perfect picture, in everyday life.
• My cats. They help me feel better if I am down. They love me no matter what, and love to be with me. They are a joy to have in the family.
• Parks. I can go there anytime and relax. I love to watch the animals enjoying them as well. I can bring a book, notebook and pen, or whatever I want to a park, and enjoy it.

Have a wonderful Thursday!

Never Forget

Today is the 11-year anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. I can’t believe it’s been that long already.

Why does it have to take a tragedy like this to bring everyone together? People should have been kinder to others anyway.

I was a sophomore in high school when the attacks happened. I remember someone coming in to first period late, and saying that the first tower was struck.

During second period Spanish, my teacher went online to see if it was true, and found out that it was.
My 4/5 period math teacher let us watch the news during class, to find out what was going on. It was scary, and unreal to see the events unfolding.

I still can’t believe that people would stoop that low. I hope no more attacks happen here, or anywhere else. I hate seeing people suffer, and that I can’t do anything about it.

I will never forget the people who are suffering, and those who were lost on that awful day. And those who served, are currently serve, and will serve in the future.

It means a lot that they are willing to give up everything for their country, even though they don’t have to. I hate war, but something needs to be done to ensure that we are always free, and that no one else suffers like this again.

Always remember.

Weekend Fun

I had a pretty good weekend overall. I went to a friend’s block party yesterday, which was fun. We had lunch, played with bubbles, a guy made balloon animals for us (I chose a crazy hat and an alien), there was a bouncy house that had a basketball hoop and a slide, some fun games, music, dinner from a local restaurant, and a bon fire when it got dark enough.

when the bon fire was up and roaring, I had wanted to make s’mores, and my friend’s mom gave us the stuff to make them. I haven’t had s’mores in a long time, and was really happy having them again.

So I had a lot of fun yesterday, and it was good to see my friend again.

Today I went to church, and then went to the library. While I was waiting for the library to open (they don’t open until 1 pm on Sundays), there were some people from the Capoiera dance group thing, performing for us.

I have never seen it before, so it was interesting to watch them perform it. It’s pretty cool. They have classes that you can take if you are interested, and I may take some classes. Here is a definition of what capoeira is, if you want to know what it’s all about.

I wasn’t expecting to see the demonstration, but I enjoyed watching it. All in all, it was a really good weekend.

Well, that is all for now. More to come later

My New Four-Legged Friend

For the past four months, I have been volunteering with the library, delivering materials to those who cannot come to the library for whatever reason. Some of the people I see, some I don’t. With those I don’t see, I just leave the materials by their door, for them to get later.

One of the women who I deliver to has a pug named Gracie, who I absolutely love, and her me. She always comes out to greet me when her owner opens the door. I always look forward to seeing her every Friday, and apparently she looks forward to seeing me as well.

Today, when I came, she greeted me as usual. The woman and I talked for a couple minutes, and as I was leaving, Gracie followed me all the way to the door (they live in an apartment), wanting to go with me. It was so sweet. I absolutely love dogs!

Seeing Gracie and the way she acts with me makes me want to get a dog someday. They are wonderful animals. They, along with other animals, bring a lot of joy to peoples’ lives, no matter what they are going through. And animals love you unconditionally, and no matter what.

I have 2 cats of my own, that have been part of the family for over 2 years. I absolutely love them, and am so thankful that they are a part of the family.

Hopefully sometime soon, I want to volunteer at the animal shelter. I love help;ing animals out, and taking care of them. They don’t ask for anything except love. And an occasional tummy/ear scratch.
Well, that is all for now. More to come later!

Thankful Thursday

I got the idea for today's post from a friend's blog, here. Thanks for the idea!!

I am thankful for:

• My family. Even though they can be crazy at times, they are my family, and I love them all. I was chosen to be a part of this family, and even though it hasn't always been easy, happy, or fun, I am glad for the chance to call them mine.
• My friends. They have supported me, loved me, cared for me for many, many years, and I love every one of them.
• God. He is there for me every second of every day, even if I don't realize it. I can go to him whenever I want, wherever I want, with whatever I want/need.
• A house to live in. Not everyone is able to have a house to call their own, and that is not right. But I am one of those who have had a house to live in all my life.
• The pets I have/had in my life. They are/were a source of immense joy in my life.
• The volunteering I am doing with the library. I am delivering library materials to those who are unable to come to the library, and I am absolutely loving it. The people I volunteer with are really nice to me, as are the people we deliver to. I have been doing this for four months now, and I am so thankful and happy that I get to be doing this.
• Having the choice to go back to school. Almost two years ago, a major event happened, and I needed to take some time off school to get everything back on track. I am now ready to go back to school, and I am actually excited about school.
• Blogs, journals, and books. I am a very shy person, except around family and friends, so these things are my friends when I want to say something, or to get away from life for a while. I can get things out of my mind, and onto paper (or screen), and I feel a lot better afterwards.

Have a wonderful Thursday!!

I Got My New Cell Phone Today!!!

A few hours ago, my new phone was delivered. It is a Nokia Lumia, which is completely different from my old phone, in more ways than one. My old one was an Android LG Optimus. The features on both phones are completely different, so I have to get used to a whole new way of using a phone.

I miss my old phone, but I'm happy I have a fully functioning phone again.

With my old phone, when someone tried to call me, it would go straight to voice mail, even if it was on. Also, one of the buttons stopped working as well.

So, it's nice to have a phone that's actually a PHONE. Even though I do like the extra features. Yeah, so...I'm really, really happy now.

Hopefully, this new phone will last a lot longer than the other ones. I hate having a phone that quits after a few weeks of usage. This one better not do that, or I will be one VERY unhappy person. But, for the moment, I'm happy.

Well, that's all for now. More to come later.

Getting a New Cell Phone...Yay!!!

Tomorrow my new cell phone will arrive. I can’t wait to get it. I will finally have a fully functioning phone then, which I am very happy about.

When my dad and I went to the phone store on Saturday, to get this all figured out, the sales associate who talked with us said that the phone I currently have is an early model, and that it was known to have problems like this.

I had to get new cell phones twice because I wasn’t able to recieve calls, and the home button didn’t work.

The phone I have is a T-Mobile LG Optimus (Android), and the phone I am getting is a Nokia Lumia. It is supposed to have a lot more storage space, stronger/better reception, and be easier to use than the one I have now.

I can’t wait to get it, although I’m going to miss my Android phone. I’ve gotten used to it, and love it. Until now. It’s been driving me crazy. So I want to have the new phone now, so I don’t have to miss calls again.

Well, that’s all for now. More to come later

Extreme Couponing...I Want a Little Piece of It

Right now, I am watching reruns of the show Extreme Couponing, and it's making me want to start. Although, I wouldn't go to these lengths while shopping. I guess that's why the show is called Extreme Couponing.

I absolutely love clipping coupons if there is one for something I want, that's on sale. But, I don't go crazy and buy a million of the same item. I'm not that crazy.

Of course, I love saving money, but I don't need to buy a ton of things at once, and use a ton of coupons at once.

There's always a limit on coupons anyway, so it can sometimes be frustrating to shop for stuff anyway.

But, it's fun and interesting watching the show, to see what people would do to save as much money as possible.

Today, I have decided to look for those binder coupon sheet things, so it would be easier for me to see the coupons. I don't know when I would be able to get some, though. I might need to use public transportation, or ask someone to drive me, if they are at a store that isn't close by.

We'll see what happens though.

Well, that's all for now. More to come soon.

Currently...

Loving: These cool summer days. After the awful heat wave we had recently, I welcome these cooler days with open arms.

Reading: The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen.

Watching: The Road to Avenlea series. It's a spinoff of the Anne of Green Gables series, and is pretty good.

Thinking About: Going back to college in the spring, to work on my Hospitality and Special Education degrees. I really, really, really want to go back to school. I am also thinking about how I really need to clean my room up. It's a mess, and it's starting to bother me. But I lack the motivation I need to actually clean it.

Anticipating: Volunteering on Friday, delivering library materials to homebound people. I love what I do!!

Making Me Happy: Relaxing in the living room right now, without the TV or radio on, using the computer. No noise except for the clicking of computer keys. It is so nice to have quiet time in the living room once in a while.

If you Knew Me:

If you knew me, you would know that I have a learning disability.

If you knew me, you would know that I never really loved school until recently.

If you knew me, you would know I have many passions: children, baking, photography, travel, music, arts and crafts, animals, and writing.

If you knew me, you would know that I want to be a special education teacher, an author, a baker, and a photographer.

If you knew me, you would know that I am a very shy person, but once I get to know someone, and we decide to become friends, I become outgoing, and comfortable around that person, and with myself.

If you knew me, you would know that I don't like exercising, but I am trying to work on that.

If you knew me, you would know that I have never had a boyfriend, and I am saving myself for marriage.

If you knew me, you would know that I LOVE the Summer Olympics. I like watching the Winter games too, but I am more of a summer person, so the Summer games are more to my liking.

If you knew me, you would know that I am very self-conscious about myself. I am well aware of how I look, and there are things that I tend to think about a lot, that people might judge me on.

If you knew me, you would know that I LOVE calendars. I don't know why. Sometimes I will have up to 4 or 5 of them hanging up in my room.

If you knew me, you would know that I am a HUGE Harry Potter fan.

If you knew me, you would know that a huge dream of mine is to get married and start a family of my own. I want 4 kids, 2 boys and 2 girls. I also want to adopt children (from anywhere), especially children with special needs.

Olympics 2012

The Olympics have officially ended, and I'm sad about that. I loved watching the games. The USA was number one in the most medals won. With the way the US athletes were this year in the games, I am so proud to be an American. They made everyone proud. I absolutely loved the games.

I would love to be a spectator in an Olympic games one day. I love watching sports, and I've always wanted to travel the world.

These last two weeks have been awesome in terms of the Olympics. The US women's track and field team won gold, and created a new record. The fab five gymanstics team also won gold.

I can't wait until Rio in 2016!! I do watch the winter Olympics, but I'm more of a summer person, so I'm into the summer Olympics more. But I love watching The Flying Tomato in winter. He is awesome!!!

Well, that is all for now. More to come later!

Sorry For the Long Pause in Posting

Easter was on the eighth, and I celebrated at my sister's house. I had a good time. I absolutely love seeing my niece and nephew. I just wish I could see them more often. They live an hour away from me. But, at least I get to see them as often as I do.
They loved their Easter baskets. They had a lot of fun looking for Easter eggs, too. My brother-in-law asked me to hide the eggs out in the yard. So I hid 2 dozen eggs for my niece and nephew. It was fun watching them look for the eggs.
One thing I gave my niece and nephew were this micro kites, which were mini kites. I played around with my niece's kite for a bit, and had a lot of fun with it. So, the day after Easter, I went to Walgreens (where I got the kites), and bought one for myself. It's in the shape of a butteryfly. I haven't used it yet, but I will soon.
This past Tuesday, I had a friend over for some knitting/crocheting time. Besides that, we also cooked and ate quesadillas and watched a few episodes of Gossip Girl. She also taught me how to crochet. So now I will be doing some crocheting for a while.
I haven't been feeling well for almost a week now. It doesn't feel like a cold, but my nose is stuffy/runny, and I'm tired a lot. I really hope I feel all better soon. I hate feeling sick.
Well, that's all for now. More to come later.

Wow!!

Jonathan Antoine has such an amazing voice--and he's only 17!!! Wow. I wish I could sing that well. If he produced CDs, I will definitely buy them. This clip is from Britain's Got Talent.
I don't get why Simon Cowell doesn't like the girl. She was just as amazing as Jonathan was. He's crazy, but he said yes. I can't wait to hear more from them both.

Nothing interesting happened today. It rained earlier, but it’s sunny out. It’s also about 70 degrees out, which is unusual for winter here. But I’m not complaining. I love it!!The first day of spring is tomorrow. Even though this has been a very mild winter, I’m glad it’s over. I don’t really care for winter. Although, the last week or so has been very warm. Summer like weather warm. If winter could be like this all the time, I would love winter more.
The Hunger Games movie comes to theaters on Friday. I’m really looking forward to it. I have read the books, and can’t wait to see the movie. I might go with a friend or two, depending on how things work out. I don’t mind going to the movies by myself, though. It’s kinda nice, because I don’t have to wait for others to arrive, and be late for the movie.
But it’s nice to be with friends, too. I can hang out with them afterwards, and not be bored. So either way is fine with me. I’m not picky.
Last week on Monday, I got my ears pierced at Claire’s. I can’t believe it’s been a week already. Time went by fast. I have to keep the earrings in, and clean the piercings for six weeks. That’s a long time for me. I kinda want to take the earrings in and put other ones in, but surprisingly, I can’t handle not doing that.
These are the second set of piercings I have. The first set, also ear piercings, I got when I was thirteen. That was thirteen years ago. I’ve been wanting to get my ears pierced again for years. Probably soon after I got the first ones. But things didn’t work out like I wanted to, so I had to wait.
But I was able to get the second piercings now, and I was able to pay for it myself. I am really happy now. I’m debating whether or not I want a third piercing now. Although, I’m pretty happy with the ones I have now, so I won’t be disappointed if I don’t get any more.
Last Tuesday, I saw The Lorax in theaters. That was a really good movie. I can’t wait for it to come out on DVD, so I can buy it. If you haven’t seen it yet, I think you should. You would love it.
Well, that’s all for now. More to come later!