Diagonally Parked in a Parallel Universe

In memory of...

2012-01-18T23:35:00.001-05:00

One thing about working at an assisted living facility for elderly with dementia, I definitely have stories to tell!

Today my favorite resident (who shall remain nameless) was found in someone else's bed with her pants and shoes off! I walked in to the room expecting to see the resident who lived there and saw her instead! I gasped and said "This is not your room! We need to leave! Come on!" and for at least 20 minutes she tried to convince me that she was too tired to move and surely the owner of the bed wont mind if she just rests for a minute or two. Eventually I got her to get up and put her pants back on, but her shoes were no where to be found! I searched the entire room as well as several other's rooms and was left empty handed. I wonder if we will ever find those shoes!
I don't know why I was so shocked at what I saw, this is typical behavior for this resident. One time, around Christmas, I found her in someone else's room wearing nothing but a jacket (unbuttoned for the world to see) and underpants, shoveling Christmas cookies into her mouth with both hands. I walked in and exclaimed, "[her name]! You are NOT supposed to be in here! Let's go!" She grabbed another handful of cookies and mumbled, "Just a few more." and through laughter I said, "You can't eat those! They're not yours! Let's go, quick!" I just love her, there is never a dull moment!

On a more solemn note, my second favorite resident had recently been admitted to the hospital for an illness, and I just found out the other day that she only has a few days left before they expect her to pass away. I know this is part of the job, and it's inevitable. I know that these folks have lived a full life and that most of them are ready to go. But that certainly does not make it any easier on us caregivers. This one is hitting me particularly hard. She was special. Her memory was not that bad, she actually knew my name and asked about me when I wasn't there. She also knew my boyfriend's name and my mom's name and asked about them frequently. She knew that my mom and I were best friends and every day she told me to cherish my mom because someday my mom wont be here. Then she would tell me stories about her mother and how much she missed her and couldn't wait to die so she could be with her family again. Even knowing that, it still hurts. She was like family to me and there is going to be a hole in my life where she used to be. I will miss her stories, and her hugs and her songs. She sang to me every day. One of her favorite songs to sing to me (because I have brown eyes) was "Brown eyes, should never be blue." Well today, and for a long time, these brown eyes are blue.

Unintentional Hiatus

2012-01-13T17:30:00.002-05:00

"I can't stop drinking the coffee! If I stop drinking the coffee, I stop doing the standing and the walking and the words putting into sentence doing." ~ Lorelei

The only good thing I have found about being sick is the unlimited time it frees up for me to watch episode after episode of Gilmore Girls. Hence the quote above. It amazes me that I can see these shows over and over and never get sick of them! I guess that's true love folks.

Another thing I have realized during my time of being bedridden, is that I would like to start blogging again. I'm sure you have noticed that I have taken a hiatus (which is a lie since a hiatus implies an intended break when if fact it has just been a case of neglect.) Anyway, so I would like to get my blog up and running again, the only problem is, I have no idea what to blog about. I don't want to be one of those girls that blogs about her life and boy problems... but I don't necessarily have a hobby per-say to enlighten the world about. I have considered doing the whole book blog thing, which my mom is heavily into as well as many blog friends, but then it makes my reading seem more like homework than pleasure which causes a delay in posts. Any suggestions?

Still in shock

2011-10-08T16:37:00.002-04:00

A week ago someone asked me if I heard about a young man that went to Davis Bible College (where I graduated from) that had jumped or fallen into the Chenango River, got swept away with the current and was never found. Terrified that I may know this man, I asked if they knew his name. They did not. Yesterday, my fears were brought to life as I found out it was a friend of mine.

Keith Slater - aka - Laminin

He went to David Bible College to become a minister and anyone who knew him, knew how seriously he took his calling to serve the Lord. On one of the first days of school he stood in front of everyone and gave his testimony of the huge obstacles he had overcome in his life and how he had come to love God. He was the kindest, most gentle spirited person I've ever met. His voice was so soft and comforting and he always greeted with a hug.

He asked us to call him "Laminin" which is an important protein molecule that basically tells cells what they are supposed to do within the body, the molecule that is holding our body together... this protein molecule just so happens to be in the shape of a cross. Laminin wished to be nicknamed after this molecule because it represented his relationship with Christ. That Christ is the glue in our lives that holds us together and tells us what we are supposed to be in the world.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F0-NPPIeeRk A video on laminin and how it relates to our relationships with God.

These are new clips about his disappearance into the Chenango river.
http://watertown.ynn.com/content/top_stories/558972/family-mourns-man-last-seen-in-river/
http://www.wicz.com/news2005/viewarticle.asp?a=20413

Like my title says, I'm still in shock, as are most of his friends and family. This is something you see in a movie, stuff like this doesn't happen in real life. I told my mom, I'm only 23, I should not be experiencing this many deaths among friends already! It's almost like my brain can't process this. Like, because they can't find his body... maybe he's not really gone? But I know that's not true, it's been a week, he's gone. I just can't believe this happened. It's so sudden and unexpected and so shocking. Maybe when/if they find his body, we'll all have closure.

Laminin we love you and miss you! There will be a huge gap in our hearts until we see you again in heaven.

Pennsylvania

2011-10-05T11:28:00.002-04:00

Last weekend I was supposed to go to my college room mate's wedding in Long Island, but unfortunately circumstances wouldn't allow that to happen. So instead I went to Pennsylvania with my parents for the weekend. My dad drives truck for the oil rigs (I don't fully understand how all that works, who works for who, and who hires who... so if you want more information about what he does, go to my mom's blog where I'm sure she explains it better than I ever could.) While he's working, he stays in a trailer in PA and my mom and I went down to visit his "home away from home." I am disappointed that I didn't get to attend Holly's wedding, but I am glad I got the chance to go to PA because I had so much fun!

Austin & Holly, so happy for them! Truly an amazing couple!

The state of Pennsylvania is so beautiful! I could move there at any time and be perfectly happy!

On Saturday we went to the Oldest House in 4 counties. There was a little festival going on there!

Do you know what this is?

How about now?

It's a turkey call!!! This man made them and was demonstrating for me :)

He also hand carved these guns from maple trees! They start out just a hunk of wood (right) and turn into a beautiful gun! (Now, I'm anti-weapons, but I can appreciate art when I see it!)

This is Pete. He's a Native American and we're engaged now. In this picture he is showing me how to throw an arrow.

Oh... were you waiting for me to explain the engaged part? Well we're not really engaged, sorry! He was explaining to me how tribes were passed down through the maternal line, and he said "So for example, if I was to marry you, I would move in with you and we would take on your tribal name and our kids would be from your tribe." So I asked him if that was a proposal! haha We stood there talking for a while and at one point he put on a poncho that was very beautiful and I told him that I really liked it. He said, "Well, you know, traditionally if you share your poncho with someone you're considered married." So it became official. I'm engaged to Pete the indian. :)

These were some of the household items that were preserved over the years.

On Sunday we went out for breakfast and drove around being tourists and checking out the local sights.

This is what the oil rigs look like at night!

Local Library

See, I fit right in!

There was so much flood damage, it was devastating. On one road, I saw a shed that was upside down and leaning against a tree, it must have been completely swept away by the water. Seeing that really shook me up. I gasped and started crying. It's just such a terrible thing to have happen. :(
There were so many houses that had piles of trash sitting outside from all the water damage.

The pavement on some of the roads and parking lots was completely destroyed.

This part of the train was not on the tracks anymore, it must have floated away and this is where it landed.

You can see where the water line was from all the mud left behind on the house. All the way above the first floor windows!

My "roomies"

2011-09-04T20:08:00.000-04:00

I'm in a long distance relationship with a guy that works the overnight shift and sleeps all day, and I live in a small studio apartment by myself...

... with 7 plants and two fish.... Think maybe I'm trying to compensate for my loneliness?

State Fair

2011-08-29T06:48:00.001-04:00

David took me to the state fair last week! Last year David gave me my first state fair experience, but we weren't dating then so it was nice to walk around as a couple this year, hand in hand. He got to do the manly charade *grunt* I'll win you that toy baby *grunt* :-) The entire day was a blast! We went to the art gallery and saw some amazing paintings, photography, sculptures etc. I was blown away by the talent! There were sheep, cows, horses, and my favorite... GOATS!!!

After we left the goat tent David said "Okay okay, you can have a goat or two when we get married!" I also got to hold a baby chick! (I know a chick is already a baby so saying "baby chick" is like saying a baby baby chicken but it makes it sound so much cuter!)

There was a seal show going on, you would not believe the crowd that gathered around to watch!

There were also a lot of rides that I would have liked to go on, but David doesn't like rides so I made a sacrifice for him. I also let him buy me a Yankee's t-shirt. I don't really like baseball but the day before I had decided to become a Pirates fan because they are from the same city as my Pittsburgh Steelers. But... when we got to the fair David saw a 2 for $20 deal on Yankee's t-shirts and begged me to be a Yankee fan like him so we could have matching shirts. #1 That was such an adorable suggestion how could I pass it up? and #2 free shirt!!! So I guess I am now a Yankee's fan, Rivera specifically, who I heard is quite attractive.

We passed by a memorial for those who died fighting for our country. David had a Grandfather that died in WWII so I took some pictures in his honor. When I looked at the pictures after giving them some special effects in photoshop, the final product made me tear up.

On the same day that we went, there was supposed to be a Maroon 5 and Train concert that night. MONTHS ago I had told David that I really really really wanted to go to that concert, but he hadn't been able to get tickets. I didn't let it ruin the amazing day we had but in all honesty I was upset that we didn't go. However, the next day I saw on the news that a man had shot himself in one of the parking lots after the concert! Later that day David called me and said "Baby it's a good thing we didn't go to that concert!" and I said "Yeah, because of the man who killed himself right?" David said "Babe, he shot himself in the lot that we were parked in! We probably would have been there when it happened! Do you know how traumatizing that would have been to have seen that!" and I quietly replied "God was looking out for us David. That's why we weren't able to go to the concert!"

David and his mom are going again on Thursday and they asked me to come with them so I'll have some more pictures to show you soon!

Garden

2011-05-29T14:47:00.016-04:00

As you can see, I started my garden! I'm so excited about gardening. There's just something about knowing that you can create something and care for it that's just so thrilling. Imagine what I'll be like as a mother haha. I've planted radishes, carrots, lettuce, green beans, tomatoes, cucumbers and peas. Can't wait to start eating all the delicious veggies!

In other news, I went to a worship concert with my new friends from church, Dawn and Ellie. Here are some pictures of that fantastic evening!

New Blog

2011-05-22T19:19:00.000-04:00

I started my new book blog and have already posted my first review. I'm an amateur so be kind, but I would appreciate the followers so please check it out!

Fictionista

ITS OVER!

2011-04-10T08:09:00.001-04:00

1. Which hour was most daunting for you? 3am 2. Could you list a few high-interest books that you think could keep a Reader engaged for next year? I chose chicklit books because they're light and funny. Laughter keeps you awake 3. Do you have any suggestions for how to improve the Read-a-thon next year? More cheerleaders! 4. What do you think worked really well in this year’s Read-a-thon? Everything, I love the readathon 5. How many books did you read? 5 6. What were the names of the books you read? "The Secret Society of the Pink Crystal Ball" Risa Green
"Spun by Sorcery" Barbara Bretton

"I Heart You, You Haunt Me" Lisa Schroeder
"Coffeehouse Angel" Suzanne Selfors

"Prom & Prejudice" Elizabeth Eulberg

7. Which book did you enjoy most? Coffeehouse Angel 8. Which did you enjoy least? I loved them all. 9. If you were a Cheerleader, do you have any advice for next year’s Cheerleaders? I wasn't a cheerleader but I only got two comments from cheerleaders for the full 24 hours so my advice would be make sure you hit a wide variety of blogs because reading comments is half the fun ;( 10. How likely are you to participate in the Read-a-thon again? What role would you be likely to take next time? Yes I most certainly will, it depends on my work schedule. If I have the night off then I will be a reader, if I have to work I will cheer.

GO Team Salty Cheese ;)

HOME STRETCH!!!

2011-04-10T07:10:00.000-04:00

Books Read since last update: "The Secret Society of the Pink Crystal Ball" Risa Green

Pages Read since last update: 60
Total Pages Read: 888 (weird!)
Books Finished: 4
"Spun by Sorcery" Barbara Bretton
"I Heart You, You Haunt Me" Lisa Schroeder
"Coffeehouse Angel" Suzanne Selfors

"Prom & Prejudice" Elizabeth Eulberg

Challenges I've completed: 6
Introduction Meme
Where in the World are you Reading?
Book Puzzle
Oldies but Goodies
In Other Words

Book Habits

Challenges I've won: 1!!!!!

2 more hours to go!

2011-04-10T06:06:00.000-04:00

I've been drifting in and out of sleep. I hear there's alot of us still awake... lets band together and finish out these last two hours!

Books Read since last update: "The Secret Society of the Pink Crystal Ball" Risa Green

Pages Read since last update: 61
Total Pages Read: 828
Books Finished: 4
"Spun by Sorcery" Barbara Bretton
"I Heart You, You Haunt Me" Lisa Schroeder
"Coffeehouse Angel" Suzanne Selfors

"Prom & Prejudice" Elizabeth Eulberg

Challenges I've completed: 6
Introduction Meme
Where in the World are you Reading?
Book Puzzle
Oldies but Goodies
In Other Words

Book Habits

Challenges I've won: 1!!!!!

Not sure what hour I'm on....

2011-04-10T04:26:00.001-04:00

Books Read since last update: "The Secret Society of the Pink Crystal Ball" Risa Green

Pages Read since last update: 48
Total Pages Read: 767
Books Finished: 4
"Spun by Sorcery" Barbara Bretton
"I Heart You, You Haunt Me" Lisa Schroeder
"Coffeehouse Angel" Suzanne Selfors

"Prom & Prejudice" Elizabeth Eulberg

Challenges I've completed: 6
Introduction Meme
Where in the World are you Reading?
Book Puzzle
Oldies but Goodies
In Other Words

Book Habits

Challenges I've won: 1!!!!!

RAT Hours 18 - 19

2011-04-10T02:50:00.002-04:00

Well these past two hours were pathetic and unsuccessful. I was waiting to read the book that my mom was finishing "Taming the Wind" so I read a few pages of Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul III which did not tickle my fancy, so then I read a few more pages of "Imaginary Jesus" which was very funny, until mom finished her book. Then at 1:45 I started "Taming the Wind" and its been all downhill from there. I got up and walked around, I made coffee, I ate chocolate, I switched chairs, I even drank one of those disgusting 5hr energy drinks and every time I tried to read my eyes refused to stay open. So in utter defeat I hung my head and allowed my eyes to close... but only for a few seconds because as I vowed before... NO NAPS! (plus my boyfriend who works the overnight shift texted me which scared the crap out of me and now I'm wide awake) Lets pause to take a good long look at his pretty face!

Awww! So cute... :)

Anywho so in the two hours that I've been desperately trying to stay awake I've read about 36 pages... WOW, talk about overachieving! I think I broke a record there! *she exclaims, her voice laced with sarcasm and exhaustion* You would think I would be better at this since I too work the night shift and and forced to stay awake until 7am EVERY NIGHT OF MY LIFE! But hey, I guess when I'm getting paid the incentive is just a little stronger to keep those eyelids open.

By the way, my mom just informed me that we are "punchy" (which apparently means goofy and drunk-like.) To which I responded "As in, I'm going to punchy you in the face?" Needless to say our house is currently being filled with shrieks of sleep deprived laughter. Someone save us!

RAT Hours 15 - 17

2011-04-10T01:07:00.000-04:00

I WON!!! I WON!!! I WON!!! Not sure if I won a challenge or if I won at random (it wasn't clear) but I won! Now I have to pick a book... such a long list, what to choose?

Finished Prom and Prejudice! Like I said before, it was hard for me to remember that this book actually takes place in the 21st century, my mind kept drifting to Pride and Prejudice. Great read though! Thanks to Shanyn for suggesting it to my mom, and thanks to Sharon for inspiring me to steal it from mom's pile!

Books Read since last update: "Prom & Prejudice" Elizabeth Eulberg

Pages Read since last update: 160
Total Pages Read: 719
Books Finished: 4
"Spun by Sorcery" Barbara Bretton
"I Heart You, You Haunt Me" Lisa Schroeder
"Coffeehouse Angel" Suzanne Selfors

"Prom & Prejudice" Elizabeth Eulberg

Challenges I've completed: 6
Introduction Meme
Where in the World are you Reading?
Book Puzzle
Oldies but Goodies
In Other Words

Book HabitsChallenges I've won: 1!!!!!

Check out my faithful friends At Random Vamps R Us and my mom Wall-to-Wall Books

RAT Hours 13 & 14

2011-04-09T22:15:00.004-04:00

Holy Moly! That last hour hit me hard! I could hardly keep my eyes open! Inspired by a new blog friend, Reading Chick, I put down "Imaginary Jesus" and started "Prom and Prejudice" by Elizabeth Eulberg. I will, however, be finishing Imaginary Jesus because its such a thought provoking book, but not good to read while I am tired. I need concentration for that one. (No offence Elizabeth Eulberg) Actually I'm having a hard time with Prom and Prejudice because as I read I keep picturing the characters in their 19th century attire, until there's mention of a car or a cell phone and then I'm brought back to modern reality.

Books Read since last update: "Imaginary Jesus" Matt Mikalatos

Pages Read since last update: 66
Total Pages Read: 659
Books Finished: 3
"Spun by Sorcery" Barbara Bretton
"I Heart You, You Haunt Me" Lisa Schroeder
"Coffeehouse Angel" Suzanne Selfors

Challenges I've completed: 5
Introduction Meme
Where in the World are you Reading?
Book Puzzle
Oldies but Goodies
In Other Words

Book Habits
Challenges I've won: none yet

RAT Hours 11 &12

2011-04-09T19:52:00.003-04:00

Wooo Hooo half way through. I'm getting sore and cranky and my contacts are dry! I need to figure out how to cure this stircrazyness. Here's my mid event survey! (BTW if you're reading this, please follow me, I need followers!!)

Mid-Event Survey:
1. What are you reading right now? "Imaginary Jesus" Matt Mikalatos
2. How many books have you read so far? 3
3. What book are you most looking forward to for the second half of the Read-a-thon? Gossip Girls
4. Did you have to make any special arrangements to free up your whole day? I had to get the day off at work.

5. Have you had many interruptions? How did you deal with those? Not really, its just my mom and I here and we are both pretty dedicated to the Read-a-thon
6. What surprises you most about the Read-a-thon, so far? The Lack of Cheerleaders. Last Readathon there were so many cheerleaders that had commented on my blog it was exciting for me to go back and read them all. This year I've had one or two total.
7. Do you have any suggestions for how to improve the Read-a-thon next year? No
8. What would you do differently, as a Reader or a Cheerleader, if you were to do this again next year? One of these years I want to be a Cheerleader since I have always been a reader. Maybe with I have to work, so I can't do the full 24 hours I will opt to cheer instead.
9. Are you getting tired yet? Not really tired, just uncomfortable and dry eyed.
10. Do you have any tips for other Readers or Cheerleaders, something you think is working well for you that others may not have discovered? I keep a notebook of how many pages I've read and what book I'm on so its easier to blog it, and I only blog for a few minutes every few hours. I was doing it every hour but that was too much.

This has been fun, I can't believe its been 12 hours already! Time has flown by! Now comes the hard part when we start getting sleepy! I'm sure Mom and I will have some fun ways of staying awake! I vow to take no naps!

RAT Hours 9 & 10

2011-04-09T18:08:00.001-04:00

I can't believe its 6pm. I finished Coffeehouse Angel, I loved it. On to "Imaginary Jesus" Matt Mikalatos which is an ebook on my mom's Nook Color! I can't believe she is actually letting me borrow it! It's her most prized possession.

Books Read since last update: "Coffeehouse Angel" Suzanne Selfors
Pages Read since last update: 94
Total Pages Read: 593
Books Finished: 3
"Spun by Sorcery" Barbara Bretton
"I Heart You, You Haunt Me" Lisa Schroeder
"Coffeehouse Angel" Suzanne SelforsChallenges I've completed: 4 1/2 (the last one is in processing)
Introduction Meme
Where in the World are you Reading?
Book Puzzle
Oldies but Goodies
In Other WordsChallenges I've won: none yet

RAT Hours 7 & 8

2011-04-09T15:02:00.002-04:00

I just had to share the conversation that my mom and I just had. We're sitting on the front porch reading our books, eating M&Ms when mom drops one on the floor of the porch. Since she can't eat it, she picks it up and tosses it over the railing into the yard.
Mom: It's not really considered littering right because it will dissolve?
Me: Sure, as long as a cat doesn't find it.
Mom: (long pause) you just had to ruin it didn't you. Now I have to go into the yard and find it!
Me: ...or a dog.
Mom: oh well that's ok, a dog can find it.
Me: MOM!
Mom: what if a neighborhood kid finds it and says "ooo candy" and eats it
Me: Neighborhood kids don't die from eating chocolate.
Mom: They might after it has been in the rain.
Me: If it has been in the rain then it will be a chocolate puddle and they can't eat it.
Mom: Well its supposed to rain on Monday so we should be ok. I'll just have to keep the cats and dogs out of the yard till then.

Books Read since last update: "Coffeehouse Angel" Suzanne Selfors
Pages Read since last update: 80
Total Pages Read: 499
Books Finished: 2
"Spun by Sorcery" Barbara Bretton
"I Heart You, You Haunt Me" Lisa Schroeder
Challenges I've completed: 4
Introduction Meme
Where in the World are you Reading?
Book Puzzle
Oldies but Goodies
Challenges I've won: none yet

RAT hour 6

2011-04-09T14:03:00.000-04:00

Where are the cheerleaders? Last R.A.T. there were tons of cheerleaders leaving comments left and right... Where are they this year?

Its sunny and warmish, I think mom and I are going to take our reading to the front porch for a bit! Be back soon!

Books Read since last update: "Coffeehouse Angel" Suzanne Selfors
Pages Read since last update: 47
Total Pages Read: 419
Books Finished: 2
"Spun by Sorcery" Barbara Bretton
"I Heart You, You Haunt Me" Lisa Schroeder
Challenges I've completed: 4
Introduction Meme
Where in the World are you Reading?
Book Puzzle
Oldies but Goodies
Challenges I've won: none yet

RAT Hour 5

2011-04-09T13:05:00.001-04:00

Still reading "Coffeehouse Angel" and loving every page. I want to open my own coffee shop someday and this book is inspiring me more than ever! Its also a cute little romance!

Books Read since last update: "Coffeehouse Angel" Suzanne Selfors
Pages Read since last update: 52
Total Pages Read: 372
Books Finished: 2
"Spun by Sorcery" Barbara Bretton
"I Heart You, You Haunt Me" Lisa Schroeder
Challenges I've completed: 4
Introduction Meme
Where in the World are you Reading?
Book Puzzle
Oldies but Goodies
Challenges I've won: none yet

RAT Hour 4

2011-04-09T11:57:00.001-04:00

I was losing concentration this hour so I took the opportunity to post some pictures. Mom brought out coffee and a veggie platter that will hopefully charge me up for hour 5. (Notice the shirt I chose!)

Book Puzzle Challenge:

RAT Hour 3

2011-04-09T11:11:00.002-04:00

I finished "I Heart You, You Haunt Me", very very sad. Lots of memories resurfaced for me. It was actually kind of therapeutic. Great choice mom. I'm closing up the tear ducts, however, and settling in for hour 4 with a good Chiclit... "Coffeehouse Angel" Suzanne Selfors

Books Read since last update: "I Heart You, You Haunt Me" Lisa Schroeder
Pages Read since last update: 226
Total Pages Read: 320
Books Finished: 2

"Spun by Sorcery" Barbara Bretton

"I Heart You, You Haunt Me" Lisa Schroeder

Challenges I've completed: 2

Introduction Meme

Where in the World are you Reading?
Challenges I've won: none yet

RAT Hour 2

2011-04-09T10:04:00.003-04:00

TALK ABOUT CLIFF HANGERS! I just finished Spun by Sorcery by Barbara Bretton, I wont give anything away but GREAT book!

Books Read since last update: "Spun by Sorcery" Barbara Bretton
Pages Read since last update: 46
Total Pages Read: 94 pages
Books Finished: "Spun by Sorcery" Barbara Bretton
Challenges I've completed: Introduction Meme Where in the World are you Reading?
Challenges I've won: none yet

Starting "I Heart You, You Haunt Me" Lisa Schroeder
* I'm kind of nervous about reading this book because its about a girl whose boyfriend dies and comes back to haunt her. Mom read this in hour 1 and she had tears streaming down her face. This book will probably really hit home for me because two years ago, my ex boyfriend died in a car accident. Skatepark in Heaven When I reached for the book, mom set a box of tissues down next to me. *Deep Breath* here I go.

RAT Hour 1

2011-04-09T09:05:00.000-04:00

1)Where are you reading from today? NY, mom's living room
2)Three random facts about me… I'm a christian, I work with elderly suffering from Alzheimer's disease, I live and breathe coffee
3)How many books do you have in your TBR pile for the next 24 hours? 15 (I picked out a lot so I had choices.)
4)Do you have any goals for the read-a-thon (i.e. number of books, number of pages, number of hours, or number of comments on blogs)? I've never been able to participate in the full 24 hours due to work, but this year I have the day off so my goal is staying awake and finishing a satisfying stack of books.
5)If you’re a veteran read-a-thoner, any advice for people doing this for the first time? Good snacks, lots of coffee, find someone to keep you awake. My mom and I always do this together to keep each other focused.

I am currently reading Spun by Sorcery by Barbara Bretton, the third book in her series. I was reading this before the RAT so I started on page 194 and read 48 pages so far. I will be posting every hour, cheering others on and participating in mini challenges so check back and spread the love!

Don't forget to check out my mom's blog! Wall-to-Wall Books
Also, tell us where you are reading from, courtesy of I Heart Monster

Preparations

2011-04-08T19:24:00.000-04:00

Once again, the Read-a-Thon is HERE!!! I have participated before but this is the first time I am able to do the full 24 hours! In the past I have always had to rush off to work, but this year my bosses were more understanding of my need to drain my energy on a stack of wonderful books! Like most events in my life, this is a mother-daughter affair. Check out her blog, Wall-To-Wall-Books. Come by frequently and support us! We love the encouragement.

List of books:
Spun By Sorcery - Barbara Bretton
Citizen Girl - Emma McLaughlin & Nicola Kraus
Chocolat - Joanne Harris
The Fires - Rene Steinke
Emmanuel's Book - Pat Rodegast
Gossip Girl 1,2 &3 - Cecily Von Ziegesar
Coffeehouse Angel - Suzzane Selfors
The Little Prince - Antoimne De Saint Exuprey
Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul III (No, I'm not a teenager but I went to school for youth ministry so I'm a teen at heart)

READ-A-THON IS COMING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-03-03T17:10:00.001-05:00

That's right! The RAT is coming again... April 9th! Make sure you sign up!!! I'm actually requesting off work a whole month in advance so hopefully I'll get to participate in the full 24hrs this year! I've already got my start on my stack of books! Can you tell I'm excited!!!

Not Just Another Manic Monday

2011-01-17T14:42:00.000-05:00

Tea Time: Tension Tamer from Celestial Seasonings "This comforting blend begins with eleuthero, an Asian herb popular for centuries because of the sense of calm and well being it imparts. We've added cooling peppermint, spicy ginger and tangy lemons to create a remarkably uplifting herbal blend. Bring harmony to your hectic day with a cup of this flavorful and restorative tea" - Charlie Baden (Celestial Seasonings Blendmaster since 1975)

Music: Karsh Kale http://www.myspace.com/karshkale/music I found this incredibly relaxing artist through a friend of mine, Shannon. She told me it was great yoga music and boy was she right. Check it out (I know, myspace... yuck... but his official site is under construction)

I bought two work out DVDs but I had to make sure they were fun enough that I wouldn't notice I was exercising so they're not just any work out DVDs. They are dance aerobic DVDs! Julianne Hough is a professional ballroom dancer and country music singer. Not only is she talented but she's also down to earth, sweet and adorably gorgeous! (See for yourself) So when I heard she had a Dance DVD I had to buy it! $10 at Walmart!

The second dance DVD I have is a Hip Hop aerobic dance mixture of 5 different 10 minute sessions. I have no idea who the girls is, but she can hip hop pretty well for a white girl.... me on the other hand... lets just say I wont be taking my moves to the stage any time soon. When it comes to hip hop I'm as country and as white as they get! But hey, I've lost a total of 2 pounds in a week and I'm actually having fun doing it!

So the Steelers won their first round in the playoffs against the Ravens... nail biting game! But we came out on top and I'm so proud of my boys. Yesterday was the game determining who we would play next week, Jets vs Patriots. Now anyone who knows the Patriots probably assumed they would hammer the crap outta the Jets and meet the Steelers next week for yet another slaughter. WRONG! Jets beat them 28-21! Where did the Patriots go? They kicked a field goal for 3 points in the first quarter and then didn't score again until the 4th!!! Not the Patriots I know, but I am NOT complaining! There is no way I wanted to play them for the spot in the Superbowl! Unfortunately my boyfriend, a Patriots fan, was not to thrilled with the turn out and I had to spend the evening on the phone with him cheering him up! Poor thing.

New Beginings continued

2011-01-14T17:49:00.000-05:00

January 1, 2011 aka 1/1/11

What better year to actually follow through with a resolution than one that repeats itself over and over and over. I have decided before to embrace myself and learn who I really am and become happy with myself and failed. I have made a commitment to exercise and get in shape and be happy with my body and failed. I have had several "meaningful" relationships that I thought meant forever, and failed. Well not this year.

On January 1st I entered into a relationship with a man who I believe will bring nothing but the best to our relationship and our future, whatever that may be. I also vowed to take time for myself, time to enjoy just being me and loving whatever it is that makes me happy. And lastly, I challenged myself to get in shape. I am pleased to inform you that 14 days into our new year, I have kept all three promises!

Ok ok, so 2 weeks is not that long. But its long enough for me to say I CAN DO THIS! I can and I will! You'll see.

New Beginings

2011-01-09T21:27:00.000-05:00

My new boyfriend, David and I at Taughannock Falls!

Condiments and Wine

2011-01-02T21:03:00.000-05:00

I decided to take on the challenge of cleaning out my fridge today. It amazed me how many leftovers I forgot I had placed in there! Between going to my mom's, eating out with David (new special someone), and sleeping weird hours, I can't even remember the last time I ate dinner in my own apartment. Anyway, after cleaning out my fridge I was somewhat amused by what was left: condiments and wine! I have an over abundance of salad dressing, mustard, ketchup and syrups, and of course always a bottle of wine... but that seems to be the end of my food supplies. Seems a grocery shopping spree is in my future!

On the Road to Recovery

2010-11-11T08:54:00.000-05:00

I broke up with my boyfriend a few days ago. It was a hear wrenching decision but it had to be made. To make a long story short, there were some issues he needs to sort out in his life and he needs to do that alone. I hope that he can get his life in order and we can get back together someday, but right now its just not the right thing. To quote my best friend, "Either he will get it together and you will live happily ever after, or he wont and you'll be better off." I'm hoping and praying for the first option, but I guess I have to trust God that whatever the outcome is, its for the best. (I sound healthy don't I? Well I'm not.) A few days ago the title of this blog would have been "HELP ME I'M A WEEPING, SOBBING MESS!!!" But I've had an epiphany. (Quoting an excerpt from my journal)

"A few days ago, I was annoyed with the constant texts and instant messages from people voicing their concern for my newly broken heart. Now that they've subsided, the silence is deafening. At the time, I wanted nothing more than to be left alone, but now that I'm faced with the very idea of being alone, I run to the phone or the computer looking for somebody, anybody, to prove that I'm not. What is it that I'm so afraid of about being alone? Myself? So I realized, this is my chance. Guitar, yoga, working out, photography... I can finally be me. Uninterrupted, undefined, bare naked, soul bearing, alone, ME! I will learn to love myself, by myself. I will learn to love 'alone.'"

So now that I'm on the road to recovery, I decided to take a walk this morning. Here are some photos from my walk...

Happy November

2010-11-01T21:13:00.000-04:00

Well its officially November and what did I come home to this morning? SNOW! And not the kind of snow that just glimmers in the air and then melts the second it touches the ground. The scenery surrounding my apartment was that of a winter wonderland...

Of course it melted by the time I woke up at 3pm, but the point is... fall was overlooked this morning as winter was obtrusively shoved in our faces. I guess it's a good thing I love snow ;-)

Final Meme

2010-10-10T15:33:00.000-04:00

1. Which hour was most daunting for you? 3-5 because I was at work and soooo exhausted.
2. Could you list a few high-interest books that you think could keep a Reader engaged for next year? Both of the chick lit books I read were high-interest for me, "Conversations with the Fat Girl" and "Diary of a Mad Bride" because they're light and funny.
3. Do you have any suggestions for how to improve the Read-a-thon next year? No, I absolutely loved it!
4. What do you think worked really well in this year’s Read-a-thon? Having my mom with me and reading shorter books. Keeps the attention span going.
5. How many books did you read? 1 1/2
6. What were the names of the books you read? Conversations with the Fat Girl, Diary of a Mad Bride
7. Which book did you enjoy most? Diary of a Mad Bride
8. Which did you enjoy least? The Fires
9. If you were a Cheerleader, do you have any advice for next year’s Cheerleaders? I wasn't a cheerleader, but my advice is stay strong! There were times when it seemed like the cheerleaders were really really going, and then times when they seemed to not be around. But overall they did great!
10. How likely are you to participate in the Read-a-thon again? ABSOLUTELY
11. What role would you be likely to take next time? Reader for sure!

Wrap it up!

2010-10-10T08:15:00.001-04:00

I read 57 pages at work. It actually was a terrible night for reading, one resident fell on the floor in her room so I had to call the nurse, the family and the physician and fill out an incident report. Then several residents were up and wandering around throughout the night, and to top it all off I had 11 or so loads of resident's laundry to do. But I managed to read a few chapters. I really am enjoying Conversations with the Fat Girl by Liza Palmer.

My mom told me there was a Black Eyed Peas video for hour 17 so naturally I had to go back and watch it! BEP are my favorites!

... I've been sitting here for at least 20 minutes, browsing different blogs and now its 8:08 and the final meme still has not shown up... so I guess this will be my last post. I am going to bed, I will check back later to see if the final meme has been posted. Everyone... it has been fun! Thanks for the support and the camaraderie from both cheerleaders and readers alike! I can't wait for the spring RAT!

Title of book(s) read since last update: Conversations with the Fat Girl, by Liza Palmer
Number of books read since you started: 1
Pages read since last update: 57
Running total of pages read since you started: 505
Amount of time spent reading since last update: not sure, I was reading off and on at work.
Running total of time spent reading since you started: 8 1/2 hours before work... probably add on an hour or two once I got to work.
Amount of time spent blogging since last update: 15 minutes
Running total of time spent reading since you started: 3 hrs and 45 minutes
Mini-challenges completed: none this hour, waiting for the final meme
Other participants you’ve visited:
http://itsjustme-wendy.blogspot.com/

http://mjbeltz.blogspot.com/

http://eatingyabooks.blogspot.com/

http://www.talesofwhimsy.com/

Prize you’ve won: none

14 hours down!

2010-10-09T21:50:00.000-04:00

Well, sadly this is my final post of the night. I have to go to work until 7am. Then I will rush home, finish up my reading and post my Read-A-Thon final summary post, and then sleep for a long long time!

Title of book(s) read since last update: Conversations with the Fat Girl, by Liza Palmer
Number of books read since you started: 1
Pages read since last update: 78
Running total of pages read since you started: 397
Amount of time spent reading since last update: 45 minutes
Running total of time spent reading since you started: 8 1/2 hours
Amount of time spent blogging since last update: 15 minutes
Running total of time spent reading since you started: 3 1/2 hrs
Mini-challenges completed: none this hour, just concentrating on reading.
Other participants you’ve visited:
http://itsjustme-wendy.blogspot.com/
Prize you’ve won: none

I will continue to read what I can at work, see you all in the morning!!! Stay awake everyone and read read read!!!

13 hours down!

2010-10-09T20:53:00.001-04:00

Title of book(s) read since last update: Conversations with the Fat Girl, by Liza Palmer
Number of books read since you started: 1
Pages read since last update: 33
Running total of pages read since you started: 370
Amount of time spent reading since last update: 1hr
Running total of time spent reading since you started: 7 hrs 45 minutes
Amount of time spent blogging since last update: 15 minutesRunning total of time spent reading since you started: 3 hrs 15 minutes
Mini-challenges completed: none this hour, just concentrating on reading.
Other participants you’ve visited:
http://itsjustme-wendy.blogspot.com/
Prize you’ve won: none yet (finger's crossed)

I can't believe its been 13 hours already. I have one more hour and then I have to leave for work. :-(

Dad brought pizza for dinner! YUMMM

11 hours down (almost 12)

2010-10-09T19:43:00.000-04:00

My 11th hour was spend napping... not because I'm weak! But because I have to work tonight (the overnight shift) and I want to be lucid.

Mid-Event Survey:

1. What are you reading right now? Conversations with the Fat Girl

2. How many books have you read so far? 1

3. What book are you most looking forward to for the second half of the Read-a-thon? New Moon

4. Did you have to make any special arrangements to free up your whole day? I tried but they didn't give me time off work. I guess the world doesn't stop turning for a good book.

5. Have you had many interruptions? I had to take a nap so I can function at work later. How did you deal with those? It's a set back, but so is going to work... maybe someday I'll have the weekend off for the readathon.

6. What surprises you most about the Read-a-thon, so far? How much I've missed it!

7. Do you have any suggestions for how to improve the Read-a-thon next year? Nope!

8. What would you do differently, as a Reader or a Cheerleader, if you were to do this again next year? Nothing, they're doing a great job cheering. As a reader, like I always say, I would try to get the weekend off.

9. Are you getting tired yet? I was slightly tired, so I took a nap now so that I wont be really tired at work later.

10. Do you have any tips for other Readers or Cheerleaders, something you think is working well for you that others may not have discovered? Well something I just read from someone else's blog is, audio books while blogging! I don't know if I could concentrate on typing and listening to a book at the same time, but its a great theory!

10 hours down

2010-10-09T17:58:00.001-04:00

Title of book(s) read since last update: Conversations with the Fat Girl, by Liza Palmer
Number of books read since you started: 1
Pages read since last update: 20
Running total of pages read since you started: 319
Amount of time spent reading since last update: 45 minutes
Running total of time spent reading since you started: 7hrs
Amount of time spent blogging since last update: 15 minutes
Running total of time spent reading since you started: 3 hrs
Mini-challenges completed: none this hour, just concentrating on reading.
Other participants you’ve visited:
http://itsjustme-wendy.blogspot.com/
Prize you’ve won: none yet (finger's crossed)

Okay, I'm officially getting tired, losing focus and becoming stir crazy. Putting down "The Fires" was a good idea because I like "Conversations with the Fat Girl" much better. My dad called not that long ago and said he was going to bring us home a pizza on his way home! My boyfriend must still be sleeping because I have not heard from him. I don't know how I'm going to work tonight, I'm so tired already, maybe I'll take a nap.

9 hours down!

2010-10-09T17:09:00.000-04:00

Title of book(s) read since last update: Diary of Mad Bride, Laura Wolf; The Fires, Rene Steinke

Number of books read since you started: 1
Pages read since last update: 5 (don't judge. I just couldn't get into this book and found myself getting stir crazy)
Running total of pages read since you started: 299
Amount of time spent reading since last update: 30 minutes
Running total of time spent reading since you started: 6hrs 45minutes
Amount of time spent blogging since last update: 15 minutes
Running total of time spent reading since you started: 2 hrs 15 minutes
Mini-challenges completed: none this hour, just concentrating on reading.
Other participants you’ve visited:
http://itsjustme-wendy.blogspot.com/

http://www.annareads.com/

So I'm reading The Fires by Rene Steinke and for some reason I'm having a hard time getting into it. I'm only 5 pages in, but I have to keep re-reading what I've already read. I don't know if its because I don't like the book or because I'm losing my ability to focus. Has anyone read this that can give me some words of wisdom as to whether its worth reading or not? I'm going to temporarily put it down to read "Conversations with the Fat Girl" by Liza Palmer. Maybe I'll get the ambition to pick it back up later.

I have some fun family reading pics to share!

Mother-daughter reading

I was fascinated that my cup matched my book

Mother-cat reading time?

Grandma-mother reading time

Mother

8 hours down

2010-10-09T16:20:00.000-04:00

Title of book(s) read since last update: Diary of Mad Bride, Laura Wolf
Number of books read since you started: Just finished my first!
Pages read since last update: a whopping 75!!!!!
Running total of pages read since you started: 294
Amount of time spent reading since last update: 1 hr
Running total of time spent reading since you started: 6hrs 15minutes
Amount of time spent blogging since last update: 15 minutes
Running total of time spent reading since you started: 2 hrs
Mini-challenges completed: none this hour, just concentrating on reading.
Other participants you’ve visited:
http://itsjustme-wendy.blogspot.com/
http://zenleaf.amandagignac.com/ (Congrats)
http://www.lovelaughterinsanity.com/ (Congrats Trish on the cheer win!)Prize you’ve won: none yet (finger's crossed)

I loved Diary of a Mad Bride. I kept laughing out loud, and I must admit, halfway through I started to panic about my own wedding (despite my lack of engagement). I guess I got caught up in the book! For my next book I will be reading "The Fires" by Rene Steinke

My Grandma came over to join in the reading! And mom made an awesome veggie spread for lunch! I've got quite the family huh? :-)

7 hours down

2010-10-09T14:50:00.000-04:00

Title of book(s) read since last update: Diary of Mad Bride, Laura Wolf
Number of books read since you started: still on the first
Pages read since last update: 41 (woo hoo highest number yet)
Running total of pages read since you started: 219
Amount of time spent reading since last update: 45 minutes
Running total of time spent reading since you started: 5hrs 15minutes
Amount of time spent blogging since last update: 15 minutes
Running total of time spent reading since you started: 1 hr 45 minutes
Mini-challenges completed: Sadly, none. I wasn't really interested in the mini challenges this hour.
Other participants you’ve visited:
http://itsjustme-wendy.blogspot.com/
Prize you’ve won: none yet (finger's crossed)

My boyfriend made it home safely and decided to take a nap before picking up his book again.

6 hours down

2010-10-09T14:02:00.001-04:00

Title of book(s) read since last update: Diary of Mad Bride, Laura Wolf
Number of books read since you started: still on the first
Pages read since last update: 36
Running total of pages read since you started: 173
Amount of time spent reading since last update: 45 minutes
Running total of time spent reading since you started: 4hrs 30minutes
Amount of time spent blogging since last update: 15 minutes
Running total of time spent reading since you started: 1 hr 30 minutes
Mini-challenges completed: nothing this hour, it would have taken too much time.
Other participants you’ve visited:
http://itsjustme-wendy.blogspot.com/
http://readthisbook.wordpress.com/ (congrats on the win!)
http://kwesifriends.blogspot.com/ (Amazing collection of books!)

Prize you’ve won: none yet (finger's crossed)

My boyfriend went home. Time to start hour 7!

5 hours down

2010-10-09T13:06:00.000-04:00

Title of book(s) read since last update: Diary of Mad Bride, Laura Wolf
Number of books read since you started: still on the first
Pages read since last update: 30
Running total of pages read since you started: 142
Amount of time spent reading since last update: 45 minutes
Running total of time spent reading since you started: 3hrs 45minutes
Amount of time spent blogging since last update: 15 minutes
Running total of time spent reading since you started: 1 hr 15 minutes
Mini-challenges completed: Show me the Books
Other participants you’ve visited:
http://itsjustme-wendy.blogspot.com/
http://www.lovelaughterinsanity.com/

http://bibliophibian.blogspot.com/

http://fictionflirt.blogspot.com/ (1st timer!!!)

http://booksfornerds.blogspot.com/

http://myteatimeisbooktime.blogspot.com/

Prize you’ve won: none yet (finger's crossed)

Mini Challenge: My small book stack... I only brought a few because my mom has practically a whole library from which I will borrow if needed!

4 hours down

2010-10-09T12:10:00.000-04:00

Title of book(s) read since last update: Diary of Mad Bride, Laura Wolf
Number of books read since you started: still on the first
Pages read since last update: 36
Running total of pages read since you started: 112
Amount of time spent reading since last update: 45 minutes
Running total of time spent reading since you started: 3hrs
Amount of time spent blogging since last update: 15 minutes
Running total of time spent reading since you started: 1 hr
Mini-challenges completed: Indie Pride
Other participants you’ve visited:
http://itsjustme-wendy.blogspot.com/
http://mjbeltz.blogspot.com/

http://www.colreads.blogspot.com/ (Congrats Colleen)

http://www.indiependentbooks.com/

http://www.talesofwhimsy.com/

http://thebookgirl.net/

Prize you’ve won: none yet (finger's crossed)

Pictures:

Mini Challenge: Conversations with the Fat Girl, by Liza Palmer, published by Time Warner Book Group

3 hours down

2010-10-09T11:00:00.000-04:00

Title of book(s) read since last update: Diary of Mad Bride, Laura Wolf
Number of books read since you started: still on the first
Pages read since last update: 23
Running total of pages read since you started: 76
Amount of time spent reading since last update: 45 minutes
Running total of time spent reading since you started: 2 hrs and 15 minutes
Amount of time spent blogging since last update: 15 minutes
Running total of time spent reading since you started: 45 minutes
Mini-challenges completed: Six Word Celebration
Other participants you’ve visited:
http://itsjustme-wendy.blogspot.com/
http://mjbeltz.blogspot.com/

http://estellasrevenge.blogspot.com/

http://virginiebarbeau.wordpress.com/

http://myreadingroom-crystal.blogspot.com/

Prize you’ve won: none yet (finger's crossed)

Mini Challenge: 6 word celebration

Mom, boyfriend, me, snacks, books, fatigue

Pictures:

2 hours down

2010-10-09T09:53:00.001-04:00

Title of book(s) read since last update: Diary of Mad Bride, Laura Wolf
Number of books read since you started: still on the first
Pages read since last update: 25
Running total of pages read since you started: 53
Amount of time spent reading since last update: 1hr
Running total of time spent reading since you started: 2 hrs
Mini-challenges completed: Back in the Day
Other participants you’ve visited:
http://itsjustme-wendy.blogspot.com/
http://mjbeltz.blogspot.com/

http://lissaslongyarn.blogspot.com/

http://www.misswisabus.com/

http://blogbysherryann.blogspot.com/

Prize you’ve won: none yet (finger's crossed)

1 hour down

2010-10-09T09:00:00.002-04:00

Title of book(s) read since last update: Diary of Mad Bride, Laura Wolf
Number of books read since you started: still on the first

Pages read since last update: 28

Running total of pages read since you started: 28

Amount of time spent reading since last update: 1hr

Running total of time spent reading since you started: 1 hr

Mini-challenges completed: Meme

Other participants you’ve visited:
http://itsjustme-wendy.blogspot.com/
http://mjbeltz.blogspot.com/
http://eatingyabooks.blogspot.com/ (thanks for the cheer!)

http://www.lifeaslist.com/

http://kwesifriends.blogspot.com/
Prize you’ve won: none yet (finger's crossed)

This book is hilarious! I have been snickering and giggling since the preface. I warned my boyfriend (who is reading about blood-sucking vampires) that I just came from a wedding last night, and now I'm reading a book about weddings, so beware haha.

Check out the R.A.T. they're doing in France! http://readathon.over-blog.com/

Mini Challenge 1:

Where are you reading from today?

New York

3 facts about me …

1) I work the overnight shift at an Assisted Living facility for residents with Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia

2) I love photography http://throughmyeyes-ashley.blogspot.com/

3) I have just recently become addicted to Twilight after reading the first book. (which was much better than the movie)

How many books do you have in your TBR pile for the next 24 hours?

Do you have any goals for the read-a-thon (i.e. number of books, number of pages, number of hours, or number of comments on blogs)?

I want to win a prize. I want to have to find a 5th or 6th book because I've finished all 4.

If you’re a veteran read-a-thoner, any advice for people doing this for the first time?

Pace yourself. Don't just read straight through the 24 hours. Come up with a schedule. Mine? Read for 45minutes, then blog for 15, thus completing an hour.

The time has come, the walrus said...

2010-10-09T08:05:00.000-04:00

READ-A-THON TIME!!!!!!

8am! Time to start reading. In honor of my best friend's wedding last night (pictures to come) I am going to start the R.A.T. with "Diary of a Mad Bride" by Laura Wolf! Looks funny, I'm excited.

Once again, I can't do the full 24 hours because I have to stop at 11pm to go to work till 7am (overnight shift) but I work at an assisted living facility, so I will bring my books with me and try to read as much as I can! With my boyfriend to my left reading Twilight and my mom to my right reading An Amish Christmas... it begins!

2010-10-04T17:13:00.000-04:00

Tea Time: Celestial Seasonings - Wellness Tea, Detox A.M. (with vanilla flavoring)
This particular tea uses milk thistle (an herb used for centuries to cleanse the body and promote liver function), combined with echinacea, dandelion root, saspirilla root and red clover to strengthen the body's natural defenses and boost the immune system.
On the yum factor, this tea definitely gets 4 stars from me. The herbs mixed with the vanilla flavoring (and a tablespoon of honey) give it sort of a spice/chai taste. As for the detoxing power, we'll see. I am going to drink this every night before work for a week and see how I feel through out the night.

Contemplations: So it seems that whenever I'm in a pickle, Micah always has the answer. Like when I needed Christian friends and he told me to go to church. A lot of the girls at my bible study have Bibles with in depth footnotes. So I was sitting there, on the couch at Micah's grandma's house and I said "You know what I want for Christmas babe? I want a Bible with in depth footnotes at the bottom." and he said "Ok. Be right back," and walked out the door. A few minutes later he came back into the room and placed a Bible in my lap and said "Will this one do?" I flipped through it and saw it was exactly what I needed. "Where did you get this?" I asked. "Its just something I've had, you can have it." He replied. Once again, Micah has all the answers.

**For anyone watching Survivor: Old vs. Young - can I just make a declaimer on behalf of young people, NOT ALL OF US ARE THAT SUPERFICIAL AND VAPID!!!** (whew, I feel better)

R.A.T: Only 5 days till the read-a-thon! Make sure you sign up... (click the picture)

Until next time! : )

Birthday Wishes

2010-09-21T21:47:00.000-04:00

As Paula so eloquently put it, "Awwww....my little Ashley is becoming domesticated" Well I certainly am! This year for my birthday, my wish list revolved around furnishing my apartment! I got so many fun things! A red teapot! (thanks grandma) red pans! (thanks other grandma) A red vacuum cleaner! (Thank you mom)... can you see a theme here? Well my birthday has passed and my apartment looks better than ever! I could not have asked for better gifts, thank you all so much!

I have been going to a new church called Agape (which means love) that's only about 5 minutes from me, and I feel right at home there. Everyone is so welcoming and the worship service is really just speaks to my heart, and the Pastor speaks in a way that keeps me on the edge of my seat. I think, ladies and gentlemen, I have finally found the Church I belong in. Not that I didn't enjoy my church growing up, but now that I'm out on my own, I think I have found where God wants me and where I can be useful for him. I've been attending a Tuesday night Bible study with some amazing women! There are some budding friendships there, that I hope God will allow to bloom! These girls are seriously such a blessing. I was just talking to Micah about how I could really use a core group of Christian friends and then he shows me this Bible Study. They also have a youth group that is looking for helpers... :-)

Read-A-Thon

2010-09-19T18:33:00.000-04:00

Its that time again! Time for the long awaited 24 hr readathon!! Grab your books and your reinforcements baby because its here on October 9th. Unfortunately (yet again) I will be working through some of it, but because I work the night shift, I am allowed to read at work!!! I already have a large stack of books waiting! Don't forget to sign up!

(Click on the picture to sign up)

2010-08-03T17:31:00.000-04:00

I HAVE VEGETABLES FROM MY GARDEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

JADED

2010-07-31T16:15:00.000-04:00

Tired, premenstrual, missing Micah, missing my mom... there are so many things I give blame to how I've been feeling lately. Lets see, how do I describe it? Lazy for starters. Worthless, well maybe not worthless but certainly not "worth-ful." I work all night long, which is stressful in its self, and then when I come home what do I have to show for it? When I worked my last job, if I did a project in the store, I had proof. Look, see, I did that. But I wasn't satisfied because I was just stocking shelves, ordering product, filling out paperwork. I wasn't working with people which was my real passion... Now, I'm finally working with people and I love my job, but it still was leaving me unsatisfied. Now, I was finally doing what I was put on this earth to do, but I had nothing to show for it. No proof. The residents have Alzhiemer's Disease and Dementia. At the end of the day, they don't remember all that I went through to get them dressed, teeth brushed, hair combed, smelling good and smiling. They don't remember the song I sang to them to get them out of bed. They don't remember grabbing my hand and saying "I love you." I felt like I was doing it all for nothing. I would work so hard to help them and five minutes later, the slate was wiped clean. And then when I would get home, I was so tired I would just sleep and sleep and sleep and by the time I woke up I didn't feel much like doing anything so I would sit around watching TV. I was so unsettled that I wasn't really doing anything of value. I was sharing this with Micah when it dawned on me.

I needed God. Now, don't get confused, I already have God so to speak. I've been a Christian my whole life. Christian high school, Bible college, youth ministry intern. Oh how different it is when I don't have the protective Christian atmosphere to keep me accountable. What I realized is that I wasn't unsettled because I wasn't doing anything of value. I was unsettled because what I was doing wasn't of value to God. I was working hard to prove to people that I was useful. I wasn't working hard to honor God and His name. "Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ." Galatians 1:10 I am so ashamed to say that I have hardly attended church since I left school. I don't read my Bible nearly as often as I should, I don't pray every day and my Christian fellowship consists of my family and Micah.

So I cried and I prayed and I opened my Bible to Psalms 39-40. 39 says our days are numbered and to use them wisely. Use them for the Lord. I felt so ashamed that I had not been living the Godly life that I used to live at college, but chapter 40 said "I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry.He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord." Now I realize that I need to get back to being the Godly girl I was intended to be. I need to go to church, I need to find a strong core group of Christian friends that can keep me accountable and keep me uplifted. I need to turn to my Bible every morning for a solid foundation to start the day, and every night to give me perspective on the day. I need to pray for every situation whether request or praise. It was a long hard realization but I am so thankful that I have realized it. Now I can start living for God and not for me.

A friend of mine for college must have seen my stressed out pleas on Facebook because he asked me to join his ministry J.A.D.E. At school it was a worship, prayer, devotional service for students, but he has branched out and included facebook. Tomorrow we will start reading through the Bible in a year. I am thankful for his ministry and it really is just what I needed at this particular time. (Thanks Jeff)

What's been happening in my life? Well as you recall, my Tomato plants fell over and started taking their reign on the rest of the garden, but I have staked them and propped them up and what did I find?!? Several orange tomatoes and teeny tiny cucumbers!!!!! I'm so excited. I'm making a dent in my lettuce. My carrots are getting bigger, but alas, my radishes are still pathetic. Help!

I started reading Twilight by Stephenie Meyer. I loved the movie so I anticipated loving the book, but its so much better than I expected. Maybe because I already know the story and love the characters? But I just can't put it down!

Ryan's dad posted a picture of his headstone yesterday. :-/ it was harder to look at than I thought, but the skater and the guitar are so fitting! I miss you Ryan

2010-07-26T07:42:00.000-04:00

June was the last time I posted! What has happened to me? I hope everyone hasn't given up on reading my blog because I'm back!!

I think I may have finally gotten the hang of working overnights. I have a sleep pattern down, I've been trying to eat healthy and not munch throughout the night, and I still have time to spend with friends and family during the day. I went out with my dad for ice cream cones just yesterday! :-) It was a nice treat, just the two of us!

My mom is gone for two weeks... what will I do without her. My garden has already run-a-muck in her absence. Its like it knew my mom was leaving and I would be defenseless with out her so it strategically planned its attack at just the right time. My radishes are not growing :-( my carrots are still very small, my tomato plants have fallen over on top of my cucumber plants which have no evidence of cucumbers what so ever and my lettuce has taken over the whole garden. I texted this to my mom and she laughed. She said your first garden was supposed to be a disaster because that's how you learned and that she should have warned me about the tomatoes needing support. So after my nap I am going out with steaks and string in hopes to save the cucumbers from the tomatoes.

I went to visit my boyfriend a few days ago to help him with an overnight youth event at the church he is interning at. Those kids were a blast! It really made me remember why I want to get into youth ministry! He planned the whole event really well and the 30 something kids that showed up really had fun! I would like to get involved in his youth group more often.

I never considered myself a "Twilight fan" though I like the movies, but my best friend let me borrow the series of books so I will be reading those for a while. Another task to accomplish after my nap. That's all I have to report for now... I promise I will update more than once a month from now on!

Week two of pure bliss

2010-06-17T23:19:00.002-04:00

Sapphire died! :'( The morning after my last blog entry I found him colorless on the bottom of the tank. Yes I cried, but yes I replaced him. Meet Aurora... he's a smaller, hopefully healthier version of Sapphire. He seems to be happier and quite spunky! Today he bit me! I stuck my finger in the water to get something off the inside of the glass and he lunged right at my finger and took a nibble. It didn't hurt, I actually didn't really feel it at all. Serves me right for sticking my finger in his home!

My training at Clare Bridge is going fabulously. I finished my residential care training. Took my certification test for being a med passer, the training for that starts a week from now, and then I start my lead aide training. So by mid July, I will be completely trained, completely certified and completely in love with my job.

Micah has an interview tomorrow (Friday) at 2:30 for basically the same type of job that I have only instead of Alzheimer's, the residents are mentally handicapped. (Is that the politically correct term?) I'm praying he gets this job! He really needs it!

Other than those, I have no more news... till next time!

[edited: June 18]
I went onto visitithaca.com to see what attractions my town has to offer the world and I realized, I don't know my town at all... :-/ So I put the website as my homepage, and every time I get on the internet because I'm bored, I will set down my computer and go see an attraction that makes my hometown so special.

Living the good life!

2010-06-13T13:50:00.000-04:00

Everything is going wonderfully! My new apartment looks great, all decorated with a modern bohemian, eclectic theme. The main color: red with brown and black accents. I have always wanted a red kitchen and now I finally have one! (The walls are white) but the appliances are red, and the utensils are red. Not fire engine red, but a darker deeper red. Thanks to mom, I also have red doilies and other little decorations around the apartment to keep the theme consistent.

I also have a little garden that my mom helped me plant (seeing a pattern here? What would I do without my mommy?) We planted carrots, radishes, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and marigolds to keep the bunnies away. The pictures I have are right after we planted them so not much to see, but they are tiny little plantlings now. When the fog lifts I will try to take a few more pictures! A few days after I planted the tomato plant a strong wind broke the stem, so mom graciously bought me two more plants so I can try again (again, mom to the rescue!)

As if a garden wasn't enough responsibility, I bought a pet to keep myself company! He is a betta and his name is Sapphire! When I found him at the store he was all blue, but when I took him home and put him in his tank I noticed he had streaks of red in his fins!!! Even my fishy matches the red theme haha! I've had him for about a week and he was very friendly, quite the social fish, but now he just lays on the bottom of the tank, coming up for air* every now and then, and then right back to the bottom of the tank. I'm a little nervous this means he's sick, but I did some research and they say that betta can't close their eyes, so this is just how they sleep when they are tired... I hope that's what this is because I have gotten quite attached to my little Sapphire! Micah calls him "our baby."

My new job is FANTASTIC! Yes, working with people that have Alzheimer's is very challenging, but so rewarding! That break through moment when they look into your eyes and smile and you know that you are making a difference is what makes the stress and hardship worth it! I've been through residence assistance training (assistance with basic living) this past week and next week I begin my lead aide training (supervisor) followed with medical certification and training. For the medic training, I have to take a class and pass a test on Thursday. I'm nervous but everyone says I'll do fine. On Saturday the 19th I will officially be a lead aide for the overnight shift! That will be my usual shift, 11pm-7am. Yes, its a challenge but I think I'm up to it!

They say the key to this job is to be close enough to the residents to have compassion but not close enough to get attached. Easier said then done. When you're working with the same people every day, how can you not get attached to the hand squeezes, the smiles and the "i love you"s. So yes, I have my favorites in my heart, but I treat everyone equal and that's the important part.

To help me better understand the disease I have been reading "Still Alice," by Lisa Genova, about a woman with early onset Alzheimer's disease. All I can say is wow! I have to put the book down sometimes because I just can't handle reading anymore. It's very intense and emotional, definitely giving me a new perspective with which to better understand the residents I work with!

Overall, God is really working in my life right now, I feel so blessed and so happy, it's worth the struggles I was facing earlier this year.

NEW NEW NEW

2010-05-23T22:02:00.000-04:00

Drum Roll Please........................

I HAVE A NEW JOB!!!

I will be working in an assisted living house for people with Alzheimer's. I'm very very excited! I gave my two weeks on Wednesday so my last day is June 2nd!!! And then I start my training June 7th!

Answered Prayers

2010-05-14T11:07:00.003-04:00

Something that I never thought would happen has finally happened! I'm almost to overwhelmed to believe it! A friend of mine has been a self-proclaimed atheist for a long time and last night he told me that he was wrong. Last night we had a conversation full of joyful tears as he told me how he felt God touch his heart and he allowed God to change him! Last night was probably one of the best nights of my life! Even now, tears are welling up in my eyes. Thank you God for hearing my prayers for my friend. Thank you God for touching his heart. Thank you!

Update:
I have started thinking about packing. Haha, I haven't actually started packing yet, but I have the keys and permission to start moving my boxes in on the 20th. I will officially be moved in May 31st!!! A few days ago he showed me where all the gardening tools were in the shed and he roped off a few rows for me in the huge garden. So that means Mom will have to come over and help me plant things!!!!!!! Well she's already going to be there helping me unpack and decorate anyway. :-) Who's excited?? ME!!!

Micah got an internship with the youth group at his church. He is in charge of the design of the website, recruiting teens, planning and organizing events and several other duties. On top of the youth group he is also teaching the High school Sunday School class. Unfortunately this is just volunteer work so he is still in search of a job so lets all be praying that one of the many applications he has put in lands him a job.

I am also still looking for a job. I have a few prospects so now I am just waiting... :-) but as we've seen, God answers prayers, so I'm not worried!

Guess What!!!!!!

2010-04-25T19:22:00.000-04:00

Okay so ever since I graduated college I have been moving from house to house just renting rooms (just a bedroom with a shared kitchen, shared living room, sometimes shared bathroom...) well guess what...

I FOUND AN APARTMENT!!! It's a studio apartment so the living room, kitchen and dinning room are all one big room (and by big I mean fairly small) and the bedroom is somewhat separate and the bathroom obviously is a separate room. There are two big closets, a porch/deck, lots of yard, a pond and a garden!!! It's not that much more a month than what I'm paying now and all utilities are included (except internet which is less than $20 and cable which I don't need.) I SUPER excited. I move in June 1st!!! My first real apartment!!!!!!! I can't wait!

The aftermath

2010-04-11T12:06:00.000-04:00

Well I must say the read-a-thon was a blast but I'm a more than a little let down by the enthusiasm of the cheerleaders. Not a single post other than my mother's (not that your posts aren't appreciated) and Chris and Jess, (thank you for the encouragement). Where did all the cheerleaders go? Where are the "woo hoos" and the "congratulations"? Well at anyrate...

Great give away from A Circle of Books, make sure you enter!

19 hrs and 540 pages later...

2010-04-11T07:59:00.003-04:00

8:00am Sunday morning... it's over.

19 hrs total
17 hrs 20 min reading
3 books
540 pages
2 small naps

1. Which hour was most daunting for you? 5am
2. Could you list a few high-interest books that you think could keep a Reader engaged for next year? Milkrun by Sarah Mlynowski was hilarious and kept me awake through the sleepy hours.
3. Do you have any suggestions for how to improve the Read-a-thon next year? The cheering completely disappeared after about 9pm. I was really upset, I kept checking my blog hoping to find comments and there were none.
4. What do you think worked really well in this year’s Read-a-thon? I blogged pretty much on the hour every hour this time. I feel like I was more prepared this time.
5. How many books did you read? 3
6. What were the names of the books you read? Home Another Way, Looking for Alaska, Milkrun
7. Which book did you enjoy most? Looking for Alaska
8. Which did you enjoy least? None of them, I loved all three!
9. If you were a Cheerleader, do you have any advice for next year’s Cheerleaders? I wasn't a cheerleader but my advice is keep it going strong. I didn't even get a comment this morning when it was all over saying congratulations you did it.
10. How likely are you to participate in the Read-a-thon again? What role would you be likely to take next time? Most definitely! I will be a reader!!!

Since Micah couldn't post the survey on his twitter (MJBeltz) I said I would post it for him:
1. Which hour was most daunting for you? Hour 23

2. Could you list a few high-interest books that you think could keep a Reader engaged for next year?

Alfred Hitchcock's Tales to make your blood run cold.
3. Do you have any suggestions for how to improve the Read-a-thon next year?

No I do not!!
4. What do you think worked really well in this year’s Read-a-thon?

The cheerleaders were really great.
5. How many books did you read? 4
6. What were the names of the books you read?

Justification by Faith, Don't waste your life, Who Stole my Church, Alfred Hitchcock's Tales to make your blood run cold.
7. Which book did you enjoy most? Alfred Hitchcock's Tales to make your blood run cold.

8. Which did you enjoy least? Justification by Faith
9. If you were a Cheerleader, do you have any advice for next year’s Cheerleaders?

Be prepared well before hand with things like snacks!
10. How likely are you to participate in the Read-a-thon again? What role would you be likely to take next time? I am pretty likely to it was fun, and I would read still!

Going on: hour 14

2010-04-11T02:41:00.006-04:00

I took a 20 min nap and feel much refreshed. Mom, Micah and I are still going strong. See mom's blog for pics of us reading itsJUSTme
The picture to the left is Micah sent via webcam since he is two hours away from me right now, participating in the readathon while he's at college.

I'm still on Milkrun and loving every second of it! I'm on page 114.

Mini Challenge: Early Favorites
"In this mini-challenge, I'm asking you to tell me about the first book you remember loving. I'm talking, soul-searing, blood-boiling, can't-get-enough-of-it love. This book doesn't have to be from your childhood but it can be."
When I was in elementary school I absolutely loved the Babysitter's Little Sister series by Ann M. Martin. I would stay up for hours with my little bed side lamp reading book after book. Yes I would read multiple books in one night. I was a fast reader back then. Some nights my mom would come downstairs and scold for still being awake at 3am and make me turn the light off and go back to bed... what she doesn't know is that most nights I turned the light back on after she went upstairs to finish my book.

Enter to win Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater: 25 hr books

So far -
Total pages read - 376
Total books - 2, half way through my 3rd
Total hours - 14 with a few breaks and
Right now -Reading Milkrun by Sarah Mlynowski

Mini Challenge, going on hour 12

2010-04-11T00:41:00.003-04:00

Well its past midnight... my eyes are burning, my lids are heavy, my breathing has slowed and EVERYTHING is making me laugh hysterically! I cracked up for at least 5 minutes because my chapter was entitled Orgasming. (Orgasm is actually the name of the bar they were attending, not the verb.) I have read 48 pages this past hour, still reading Milkrun by Sarah Mlynowski. Very funny chick lit.

I think I need to exercise a little before starting my next hour of reading!

The following is for the mini challenge Get The Heck Out Of Here

Here’s what we all want to know:

What steps did you take to ensure you’d be able to read as much as possible today? I packed a bag the night before since I was driving to my mom's house to spend the read-a-thon with her. I went to work and then promptly "got sick" so I could begin my reading sooner. Once I got to my mom's house I set up with my computer, notebook for tracking pages read, and my stack of books, then changed into my comfy clothes!
Of those steps, which proved to be the most beneficial to your day? Going home "sick" was most beneficial because I got to read that much sooner!
Is there anything you might do differently next time? Ask for the day off.

going on: hour 11

2010-04-10T23:11:00.002-04:00

I'm losing steam. On a normal night I would be in bed by now, or at least getting ready for the idea of bed. I spent a few minutes on operation revitalization which consisted of an orange, a cup of tea and a good face splashing. Sadly I only read 31 pages in the last hour, but I blame it on the couch. There was much tossing and turning to be had before the perfect position was found, of course I've sat up now to use the computer so I'm afraid the tossing and turning will have another go around.

Do you know what I have discovered? When I get really into the book I'm reading I tend to skip ahead a paragraph here or there, or even a page! Its a nasty habit! I just get to excited to hear about what's going to happen that I leap ahead. That is why I have come to love paperbacks because I roll the pages so that I can not see what's coming next. Looking for Alaska was a hardcover and very suspenseful but I am proud to report that I only read ahead once. Thankfully Milkrun is a soft cover so I can bend and fold as I please. (Don't gasp, book lovers, I bend and fold lovingly! No harm was brought to the books in the making of this blog.) Well on to my reading...

And I'm happy to report that Micah has joined us again: MJBeltz

going on: hour 10

2010-04-10T21:40:00.003-04:00

Total hours reading: 8.5 (half an hour break for pizza)
Total pages read: 261
Books finished: 1.5 (I was already half way through my first one when I started the readathon)
Next book to read: Milkrun by Sarah Mlynowski

Well, I was right... I sensed tragedy to come in the next chapter and sure enough... I don't want to give anything away but I give this book 5 stars. It was meaningful, comical, emotional and philosophical. Mom said Milkrun is funny which is great because I need a pick me up after that book and also to wake me up a little bit.

Mom and I are still going strong, I'm exhausted but she says she's not really tired. My boyfriend, Micah, had to put his reading on pause as his roommate needed his attention for a few hours. He'll be back later tonight and you can check out his twitter at MJBeltz

Thanks for all the encouragement from everyone!!! Here I go, onto hour #10!!! (In case you didn't know, I had a late start due to work)

MID-EVENT SURVEY

2010-04-10T20:08:00.002-04:00

Mid-Event Survey:

1. What are you reading right now? Looking for Alaska by john green

2. How many books have you read so far? this is my second

3. What book are you most looking forward to for the second half of the Read-a-thon? Milkrun by sarah mlynowski

4. Did you have to make any special arrangements to free up your whole day? I pretended I was sick so I could leave work early!

5. Have you had many interruptions? Not too many. My dad came home and brought us pizza which was a welcomed interruption!!!

6. What surprises you most about the Read-a-thon, so far? How tired I am already at 8pm when I am usually up till at least 11pm

7. Do you have any suggestions for how to improve the Read-a-thon next year? Honestly I don't, I just love the readathon how it is.

8. What would you do differently, as a Reader or a Cheerleader, if you were to do this again next year? Ask for the day off.

9. Are you getting tired yet? Yes!!!

10. Do you have any tips for other Readers or Cheerleaders, something you think is working well for you that others may not have discovered? Get up and walk around when you get tired, it keeps you awake. Or don't stick to just one book, switch it up.

I've read a total of 199 pages for a total of 5 hours, blogged for a total of 3 hours.
Don't forget to check out my mom's blog itsJUSTme
and my boyfriend's twitter MJBeltz

Going on: hour 7

2010-04-10T18:31:00.004-04:00

Have you ever read a line in a book that you just knew was a foreshadowing of something really really bad? Something so bad you put down the book and whispered no, please no to the book gods, then pick it back up, holding your breath, hoping you were wrong. That is where I am, except instead of picking up the book, I took a blog break. I can't continue reading right now because if my foreshadowing suspicions are correct I won't be able to hold back the tears.

Still reading Looking for Alaska by John Green more than half way through.

Pages read since last updated: 48
Pages read total: 172
Time spent reading since last update: 1 hour
Running total of time spent reading since you started: : 6hrs

To further postpone the possible trauma that was about to take place on the pages of my book, my mom and I did some stretches to get our blood pumping again and now its back to our books!
If you feel like getting up and moving those stiff legs, make sure you enter the Get Up and Move Challange by jehara

Going on: hour 5

2010-04-10T17:15:00.002-04:00

Still reading: Looking for Alaska by John Green

Number of books read since you started: 1
Pages read since last update: 46
Running total of pages read since you started: 124
Amount of time spent reading since last update: 1 hour
Running total of time spent reading since you started: : 4 hrs and 15 minutes

Neat challenge hosted by nomadreader, gives you a great perspective on the diversity of our readers.

My mom, boyfriend and I are still going strong. Thanks for all your encouraging posts. Don't forget to check out my mom's blog: itsJUSTme and my boyfriend's twitter MJBeltz

Going on: hour 3

2010-04-10T15:34:00.002-04:00

Amazingly enough I read 39 pages this hour... same as last hour. But only 39? What is wrong with me? I used to be a fast reader... only 39 pages is discouraging.

Still reading Looking for Alaska by John Green. It seems to be a great book so far, I'm really connecting with the main character who just so happens to be a boy... I hate reading books about boys but I'll give it a go for my mom.

I'm starting to get a headache, probably from being up since 5. I already took my hair down from its uncomfortable bun, took my contacts out and replaced them with my glasses, and took some pain killers.

Going on: hour 2

2010-04-10T13:48:00.007-04:00

Well my first hour of reading was filled with laughter, suspense and tears. I finished Home Another Way reading a total of 39 pages. I have to say, that was probably one of my favorite books, even though the ending wasn't exactly what I hoped it would be. Very well written though, I really connected with the main character and found myself laughing with her idiosyncrasies and getting angry with her rash outbursts! I recommend this book!!! 4.5 stars, I deducted half a point because of the ending.

Thanks for the cheering guys!! I'm on my way to hour two (I was delayed because of work). My mom and I are doing this together, and when I got to her house she had a delicious spread of veggies and dip and the most delightful almond M&Ms! See pictures of our lunch on her blog, itsJUSTme. Now I'm taking a small break, just spending a few minutes blogging and checking out other readers. Don't forget to encourage Micah, my boyfriend on twitter. MJBeltz

Book #2 will be Looking for Alaska by John Green

Challenge #1
Feed Me Seymour (Linus’s Blanket) asked that we do the following… "So over the next few hours let me know if you happen across any passages of food in your reading or you can also flip through some of the books in your Read-A-Thon stack(s) and find me a passage where the characters describe what they are eating or when they are actually eating – write up a post with the book, author, your selected passage and a picture of one the dishes"- so here is my entry

"We chewed more politely than usual, without our words to disguise the smacking and chomping. I ate three helpings of mashed potatoes and little else. Maggie had spoiled me with her delicious spuds, to which she added an entire stick of butter, a pint of heavy cream, and a whole bulb of roasted garlic. She also made dessert. Chocolate cake. Memory's cake. Except Maggie's version looked beautiful; she had trimmed the edges and sifted the confectioner's sugar through a paper doily, using it as a stencil, leaving a sweet lacy design on top. Memory simply spooned on the white powder without waiting for the cake to cool, so it melted in clumpy globs." Home Another Way by Christa Parrish

Lies (in moderation!)

2010-04-10T12:44:00.002-04:00

Finally I can officially start my reading for the Read-A-Thon! I had to work earlier but I left early, told them I was sick... *cough cough* (yeah right)

My book list:
Home Another Way by Christa Parrish
Looking for Alaska by John Green
Milkrun by Sarah Mlynowski
Exposed by Susan Vaught
The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks
Becoming the Woman of His Dreams by Sharon Jaynes

12:30 starting with Home Another Way. I've been reading this one on my breaks at work so I'm actually almost done with it, on page 311.

Micah my boyfriend has been reading since 8am. I'm so proud of him. He is doing this by himself from school so make sure you send him lots of support. He doesn't have a blog but he uses twitter. MJBeltz

I'll be back!!!

Read-A-Thon

2010-04-04T21:00:00.002-04:00

It's almost here!!! The spring Read-A-Thon of 2010!!! Sign up ASAP (click the picture to go to the sign up website)

Unfortunately I have to work AGAIN but I planned ahead. Though I could not ask for the whole weekend off, (mostly because I'm so good at my job that they can't live without me) I was able to ask for Sunday off and I only work till 3 on Saturday so I'll be reading from roughly 3:30pm - 8am on Sunday. So I'll be reading/blogging for a total of 17 hrs.

Can't wait to pick out my reading list! Great news, my boyfriend will be joining in our reading fun from his school. He doesn't have a blogger blog but he does have a twitter... MJBeltz and he'll be reading right along with us. :-)

On a different note... I got a beautiful blog award, (thank you Wendy at Its Just Me )

I have to list 7 things you might not know about me and then pass it onto 15 other bloggers and notify them of it.
7 things -

1. I want to live in Alaska
2. I am hopelessly addicted to Gilmore Girls (my friend has the entire 7 seasons on dvd and we watch them over and over and over)
3. I really want to get dreadlocks but I'm afraid of the whole shaving your head thing after you don't want them anymore.
4. I do yoga
5. Tiger Lilies are my favorite flowers.
6. I had snails for pets, four of them, in elementary school as a science project and I loved them.
7. I danced ballet for 5 years.

so now I have to pick 15 people, well unfortunately I don't even have 15 people that I follow so I will pick 5 blogs:
1. Emmah Christine
2. Kat's Cradle
3. Photography by Leedra
4. Glen Goffin Photography
5. Kaylyn Machelle

Earth Hour

2010-03-27T21:19:00.003-04:00

Thanks to my housemates, I participated in "earth hour" today to take a stand against "the degradation of the Earth's natural environment and build a future where people live in harmony with nature." To learn more about Earth Hour click here

I wish I had known about it sooner, I would have spread the word! Next year!

Spring!

2010-03-17T11:45:00.003-04:00

Spring is finally here! It's happened at last. Although I told my boss we weren't allowed to pack away the winter merchandise yet so as not to jinx it! *knock on wood*

I had a wonderful day in the park with Micah... check out my photography blog Through My Eyes

Ryan's birthday was yesterday. April 16th, he would have turned 22. I thought about taking the day off and wallowing in self pity but then I realized he's having the time of his life in heaven so instead I celebrate that Ryan was born 22 years ago and that I was blessed to have him in my life. Here's to another year of memories of a wonderful person.

Memories

2010-02-05T11:42:00.002-05:00

I heard a song on the new Kelly Clarkson CD while I was driving the other day that pierced my heart. I think the song was meant for a break up, but the memories of Ryan's death were so overwhelming that I almost had to pull over due to the tears streaming down my face.

Whenever I feel
Your memory is breaking my heart
I'll pretend I'm okay with it all
Act like there's nothing wrong
Is it over yet?
Can I open my eyes?
Is this as hard as it gets?
Is this what it feels like to really cry?

I can't even explain how I feel, there are no words. It's been almost three months and I feel like its hitting me all over again. Every little thing reminds me of him and I just break down and cry for no reason. It's like its finally hitting me that he really is gone. He's never coming back. I can't text him, call him, see him. Oh God it just tears me apart, why is it so hard to come to terms with this? Why does it still hurt? We both believed in God, so I know he's happy where he is now... but I feel like a piece of me died that day. I haven't felt the same since, and most of the time I just ignore it and pretend I'm over it and have accepted his fate. But its just so unlike anything I've felt before. This is not in my control. I have no choice but to let go. Let go...

Nasty Habit

2010-02-02T19:00:00.003-05:00

Boy I am really bad at blogging! Sometimes I get going on a good streak but it is always inevitably followed by a dry spell. I wonder if this has anything to do with my habit of procrastinating.

I think I may have (knock on wood) found an apartment. It's very small... and when I say small I mean the kitchen and the living room are in the same room. The building is also really old and the apartment has been shut up for a while so it smells bad. But I personally think with a little TLC it would be perfect. I don't need a luxury apartment, I just need it to be mine. Well, mine to rent, but mine none the less. and small doesn't have to mean small, small can mean quaint. Sounds ideal right? Well not quite. It's too expensive, but if you look at the apartment you would be surprised at what they're asking for it. So that's where my request for your prayers come in... I am going to talk to the owner and try to haggle the price. I'm going to convince her that I'm perfect and just the type of renter she needs and then plead my poor case.

I'm also looking for a part time job to supplement my income. I'm tired of living paycheck to paycheck. I would like a cushion saved up to fall back on! I don't want to look at my bank account every month, biting my nails, hoping there's enough money in it to cover my bills. I don't mind being poor, it definitely makes me appreciate what I have, but I would like to be able to have money saved up.

BIG NEWS: Micah bought a new car! Not a new car... but new to him! He is very excited. It belonged to a friend of his who sold it to him very cheap. It needs new power steering and then it will be good to go. He's pretty excited because he's been having to take the bus to come see me, but now he finally has the freedom to drive where ever and whenever he wants to! Well, when he can afford gas that is haha. Speaking of which... the gas in my town has been going down slowly! YAY!!!!!!!!!!

Micah's brother and sister in law are pregnant! This will be their third child, probably a boy because those seem to run in his family. We are all very excited. Also, his aunt just had a baby (she's in her 40s). Baby is healthy, she is healthy, this is her fourth.

This week on facebook everyone has to post a picture of someone famous that they've been told they looked like more than once. Mine was Lindsay Lohan. I've gotten that alot, and when I say "Ew she's a skank." They usually say "no no before she was a skank."

What do you think?

Is there anyone you've been told you look like??? If so who?

Its been a long month.

2010-01-11T09:38:00.002-05:00

Wow, It really has been a whole month since I last blogged. That just shows how busy I've been. I feel like I haven't even been in my apartment at all this past month between going to my parents, spending time with relatives, visiting Micah and working...

Micah's parents gave us plane tickets for Christmas. They live in Indiana and wanted us to come spend New Year with them. Despite a few delays at the airport... Our first flight was delayed 3 hours so we were at the airport for 5 hours. Because of that, we missed our connection flight in Philly so we had to book the next one which was at 7am the next morning. So Micah and I spent the night in the Philly airport. If I was alone there is no way I would have done that, but I felt safe with Micah there. I knew nothing would happen to us. So 9 hours later, we caught our flight from Philly to Indiana. Micah's parents are really sweet, loving, wonderful people and they really make me feel like part of the family. We went out to eat several times, went to the movies, baked Christmas cookies, watched movies, played games, went to their church. It was a lot of fun and part of me is sad to be back home. They bought us some Christmas presents so we did that first thing. Micah and I got matching hoodies that say his last name on the front and his Dad said "I know you're not a part of the family yet, but you will be soon enough." haha They work as house parents for a woman's home so it was really nice for me to be there to experience it first hand, considering that's what I want to do with my life. On the way home, our flight from Newark NJ to NY was delayed 6 hours so we were at that airport for 8hrs. It wouldn't have been so bad if they had actually told us our flight was delayed. Apparently the person that was supposed to man the desk at our terminal hadn't showed up for work that day so none of our announcements were being made and no one was there to help us or tell us what was going on. Twice, our flight disappeared from the screen, so each time we had to go to customer service and ask them what on earth was going on. After several of us complained that no one was at our terminal to help us, they finally gave us meal vouchers. Oh well... So like I said, despite the flight issues, the trip was wonderful. There was a few inches of snow, and yes very cold. The wind was like ice!

Then the following weekend, my mom's side of the family (aunt, cousins etc.) came over for Christmas celebration. That was a lot of fun, I haven't seen some of them in a long time! We laughed, drank wine, opened presents, shared stories. Micah got to come this year and I could tell he really enjoyed the family. :-) He is back at school now, today is his first day of classes. We made a road trip out of it, went to his home to get his stuff, said hi to all the relatives, went to church with them, then went back to his college. My car had been missing windshield washer fluid for a few weeks now, and the salt buildup on my windshield was dangerously thick. I could barely see. I kept pulling over and making Micah get out and throw snow on my windshield. He finally broke down and bought me some windshield washer, and I was amazed at how clean my windshield was! Those of you who wear glasses, have you ever cleaned your glasses and then put them back on and was taken aback at how clear they were now because you had no idea they were really that dirty! That's what it felt like.

New Blog

2009-12-08T10:14:00.003-05:00

I'm going to start a new blog all about the stupid things customers say to me or my employees throughout the day. I'll only post on it when I have something to share. Customers Need To Come With A Handbook!

Jingle Bell, Jingle Bell, Jingle Bell Rock

2009-12-06T17:21:00.003-05:00

Its December! Do you know what that means? CHRISTMAS MUSIC!!! I am currently putting all my Christmas CDs on my computer, Avalon, Martina McBride, Amy Grant... I just finished decorating my three foot tree. Its so cute!

I finished the book I was reading, Casting Spells by Barbara Bretton. The quote on the cover says "'[Bretton's] books pull you in and don't let you leave until the last word is read' - Booklist" I can't believe how true that quote is. I read the entire book in one day! Now I'm starting the second one called "Laced with Magic."

Micah had to make a message board for his computer class and he asked me to give all you lovely bloggers a link. He needs outsiders to post on it so he can get a good grade, so please click the link and post anywhere about anything. Click here He said "Tell them it's a work in progress from a bunch of guys so its not super amazing." And just to warn you, its kind of trippy, might want to wear sunglasses before posting.

Let it snow... let it snow... let it snow...

Pride cometh before the fall

2009-12-05T11:45:00.005-05:00

Let the records show that when something good happens, something bad is always bound to follow. Or, as Paula would say, good things happen first so you can handle the bad thing when it comes. I was psyched about getting a raise at work only to have my excitement squashed when I applied pressure to my break pedal and a terrible grinding noise emerged from somewhere below me. I took it to the shop next door to my parents and turns out I need new break pads and rotors on the front breaks. Parts alone will cost me $135. Thankfully a friend of mine offered to fix them for me and he said he wouldn't even charge me for the parts!! Thank you God for this blessing.

Yes, you read correctly, I got a raise!! I threatened (nicely) to leave and got a raise. Who knew! I should have done that months ago. Haha. But no, in all reality, the only reason this worked out so well for me is because I am the only reliable supervisor left in my store so the manager really needs me to stay. Thankfully this makes him willing to bend over backwards to keep me, which means an instant pay raise now and another one three months from now. There has also been some circumstances in the company that would present the opportunity for me to put in some overtime, which I gladly accepted with open arms. Maybe, just maybe, I will actually be able to support myself financially.

Speaking of being poor. My church has always held "Kitchen Cupboard" which is a food pantry for the less fortunate. My mom convinced me to go there yesterday to get food since I can't afford to buy groceries. I thought it was a good idea but I was very nervous to go. This was my home church where people knew me and I was afraid that they would get the wrong impression. I feared that they would think I was taking advantage of the system and that I wasn't actually "needy" OR I feared they would think I was needy and look down on me for it. When I got there, I just said a quick prayer in the parking lot that God would give me the strength to go through with it. Much to my relief, everyone was very nice and helpful. I actually got a lot of food! Much more than I would have been able to afford on my own, and its all donated from Wegmans so you know its good. French bread, fresh produce, beans, tuna fish, cereal (just to name a few.) It was a humbling experience but in the end I decided I enjoy being poor because it really makes me thankful for what I have. If I could afford french bread I wouldn't have though twice about having any, but since I can't, getting some from the food pantry is the highlight of my week!

I really enjoy living with my roommates. They are extremely nice and treat me like I'm a part of the family. There have been so many times when they ask me to join them for dinner, or tell me that I'm welcome to the produce they get from the farmers market in town. I have noticed that I tolerate things from them that I wouldn't have tolerated from previous housemates and I most of the time I don't even realize I'm doing it. This must mean that I will be here for a while.

What I'm reading:

Casting Spells by Barbara Bretton. Mystic fairy tale creatures such as witches, sprites, faeries and poltergeist have come to reside in Sugar Maple, Vermont. They see each other for who they really are, but to an outsider they are just a Stepford type town full of beautiful people with no history of crime or even death. They live in peace, unnoticed by the rest of the world... until someone dies. Now outsiders are coming in and snooping around and the safety of the towns secret lies on the shoulders of half-breed Mayor Chloe Hobbs. With a witch mother and human father, Chloe, at the age of 30 has not yet acquired her magical powers and doesn't know if she ever will.

I hope there's a skatepark in heaven

2009-11-23T09:07:00.005-05:00

It's been awhile since my last post... its interesting how I can't seem to think of an introductory sentence for what I'm about to say...

Ryan died November 13th. Over a week ago and the phrase still brings tears to my eyes. Its one thing when someone dies of old age or illness because at least then you are able to prepare yourself for the waves of emotion that are about to crash into you; but to lose someone suddenly and unexpectedly in a car accident just isn't right. No one prepared me, no one warned me. One day he was here and the next he was gone. I understand that everything happens for a reason and I understand that now he is in heaven with the Lord and Savior he served with all his heart... but knowing all that doesn't make it easier. Ryan used to be my boyfriend, we broke up around thanksgiving two years ago. It was one of the hardest decisions I ever made and the hardest to get over. I loved him but not in the kind of way he needed me to. Over the next two years we tried numerous times to be friends but it was just too hard for him. He insisted that I was the only one for him and he would never love another. A month ago he sent me a text message saying he was still in love with me but he knew I was happy now and he was happy for me so he was saying goodbye. Oh Ryan... if only you knew. He swore that I was the only person he'd ever love and he was right. He loved me for two years after we broke up and then he died, he died loving me. I'm honored. I trusted God to get me over breaking up with Ryan two years ago and now I'm going to lean on God again to get me over his tragic death.

I hope there's a skate park for you in heaven Ryan, I'll miss you. 11/13/09

Link to my photography blog in memory of Ryan

Goodnight Read-A-Thon

2009-10-25T08:32:00.003-04:00

This is my final Readathon posting... 24 hrs later I am a very sleepy reader.
14 hrs 9min reading
579 pages
3 completed books started 1
1 magazine article
1hr 51min blogging
8hrs working

Readathon Survey
1. Which hour was most daunting for you?
7-8am sunday
2. Could you list a few high-interest books that you think could keep a Reader engaged for next year? Big Boned, Lynelle by the Sea
3. Do you have any suggestions for how to improve the Read-a-thon next year?
No suggestions, absolutely loved it.
4. What do you think worked really well in this year’s Read-a-thon?
I think it was organized well, I think the cheerleaders were fantastic, the challenges were fun.
5. How many books did you read?
I finished 3 and started another and read a magazine article
6. What were the names of the books you read?
Big Boned, Lynelle by the Sea, Revealing Jewel
7. Which book did you enjoy most?
Big Boned
8. Which did you enjoy least?
Revealing Jewel but only because its not a story that I could follow which made it harder to stay awake. On a normal day I love this book.
9. If you were a Cheerleader, do you have any advice for next year’s Cheerleaders?
The cheerleaders were great
10. How likely are you to participate in the Read-a-thon again? What role would you be likely to take next time? I will definitely participate next time as a reader and I will make sure I have the days off.

goodnight everyone

2009-10-25T06:37:00.003-04:00

1 1/2 hrs left and I have caught my third wind. I am wide awake and beeming at the ending of my book. Meg Cabot is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. Needless to say I will probably not be so awake the second my head hits a pillow at oh say 8:05

So far I have read 521 pages. My next book is a small one about Jewel Kilcher.

Time for a challenge break

2009-10-25T04:49:00.002-04:00

3 hours to go!!!
433 pages in (remember I had to take an 8hr break when I went to work)
2 books, 1 magazine article and many many snacks later... I have taken a mini challenge break

Gail is hosting this Take a Break mini-challenge

My mom's cat, Martina decided she wanted to join in the readathon too. You'll see the book she is reading and the stack of reading material she plans to read underneath her.
She has stayed awake for most of the read-a-thon (we wont mention the minor cat nap around 2am. Everyone has faults)

Mom is tired and I've had to keep her awake several times. You can tell because her blog posts keep getting shorter and shorter. I however have found my second wind... but I'm wondering when this will run out. Will I last three more hours??? We'll see!

See you in 3

What is wrong with me... I'm still young darn it!

2009-10-25T02:37:00.003-04:00

Its 2:30 in the morning and I am doing all I can to fight the sleep that seems to be overtaking me! What is wrong with me, it was only 10 months ago that I would stay up until 3 sometimes 4am in my dorm only to rise early the next morning for classes without so much as a yawn. Where has my youth gone? When did I make the cross over into sleepy early nights? *sigh*

I'm still reading "Big Boned" by Meg Cabot and I have to say that my favorite line from the book so far is on page 5 Heather (the main character) is jogging and she says"I think my uterus just jiggled free. Is that even possible? I mean, could my uterus just come sliding out?"

5.5 hrs to go!!! Congrats to everyone who is still awake.

Tiredness

2009-10-25T00:30:00.003-04:00

Its 12:30 and I am tired. I am normally in bed by this time especially after a long day of work. I wish my determination to stay awake and my heavy eyelids would reach an agreement and carry me through tomorrow. I finished "Lynelle by the Sea" around 9:30 and then read an article about Heath Ledger in Vanity Fair magazine Titled - "The Last of Heath" It was about his accomplishments as an actor and an inside look at those fatal last days of his life, an article that brought tears to my eyes. He was one of my favorite actors and greatly missed.
Around 10:20 I started "Big Boned" by Meg Cabot and much to my dismay have only read a measly 47 pages in two hrs. To my defense I was distracted by a cat, a boyfriend, yoga, and many many unwelcomed sneezes! The good news is, its time for a new challenge!!

Children's book challenge - hosted by Chronicle of an Infant Bibliophile
1. The Little Prince
2. Stellaluna
3. Good night Moon
4. Babysitter's club series
5. Goosebumps

Yoga Break

2009-10-24T23:04:00.000-04:00

Right when I was about to get sleepy my mother suggested we do a yoga challenge from Jehara - http://jehara.blogspot.com/2009/10/yoga-mini-challenge.html - which is a fantastic idea. I do yoga daily both to energize me for my day and to calm me down before bed. Mom said Jehara suggested to go to Yoga Journal online to get some ideas and I exclaimed, "Oh I have a yoga journal right here in my bag!!!" (If any of you are familiar with Yoga Journal) I pulled out my September 2008 issue and turned to dog-eared page 77 A "Rise and Shine" sequence by Kira Ryder, which consisted of poses such as - Baddha Konasana, Virabhadrasana, Bhujangasana, or in laymans terms - Bound angle pose, warrior pose, and Cobra pose.

Great idea Jehara what a good way to get the blood flowing for another 9 hours of reading!

:-)
Until next time

Reading Once again

2009-10-24T19:59:00.000-04:00

Finally back from work and reading once more. Thanks for all the encouraging comments guys!! I read 21 pages on my break at work (I'm a supervisor so I kept getting called away.) Still on the first book and almost finished... Pizza is on its way so soon I'll be eatting pizza in one hand and reading in the other.

In the meantime here is a Mid-Event Survey
1. What are you reading right now?
Lynelle by the Sea by Laurie Lico Albanese

2. How many books have you read so far?
Sadly, just one. My reading was put on hold while I was at work.

3. What book are you most looking forward to for the second half of the Read-a-thon?
Big Boned by Meg Cabot

4. Did you have to make any special arrangements to free up your whole day?
I tried to call in sick to work but no one would cover for me. (I really am sick too.) Cold or virus or sinus infection of some kind.

5. Have you had many interruptions? How did you deal with those?
Only my job. I went to work, read during my break, and started reading again when I came home.

6. What surprises you most about the Read-a-thon, so far?
How many people are participating and how united we can all become.

7. Do you have any suggestions for how to improve the Read-a-thon next year?
Some of the challenges are hard to understand.

8. What would you do differently, as a Reader or a Cheerleader, if you were to do this again next year? Ask off of work ahead of time.

9. Are you getting tired yet? Just a little, long day at work did not help.

10. Do you have any tips for other Readers or Cheerleaders, something you think is working well for you that others may not have discovered?
When I get tired, I read standing up. It revitalizes me and helps the blood rush through my body, energizing me for my next hour of reading.

Thanks for reading...
Check again in an hour or two.

First Read-A-Thon Challenge

2009-10-24T10:11:00.000-04:00

Two hours down twenty two more to go (minus the 8 hrs that I will be working) and I have read 94 pages of a wonderful book, Lynelle By The Sea, written by Laurie Lico Albanese. Its about a two women, Annie and Lynelle who both have similar intertwined stories of loss and the aftermath that follows.

My first Read-A-Thon challenge came from WordLily http://wordlily.com/2009/10/24/trending-on-twitter-a-read-a-thon-mini-challenge/ involving twitter (which I have never participated in until now) so I hope I did it right.

See ya'll in a few hours.

Tomorrow morning!!!

2009-10-23T09:44:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow at 8am begins the 24-hour Read-a-thon!!!
I'm excited. I'll be going to my mother's house at 8 and reading until about 11 when I have to work. I will also read on my half an hour break at work and then pick up the reading again when I get done at 7pm and read straight through to 8am the next day.

Read-A-Thon

2009-10-21T19:45:00.000-04:00

My mother and I are doing a 24hr read-a-thon Saturday-Sunday.
http://24hourreadathon.com/
Sadly I have to work for part of it, but I will be participating as much as I can.
I am excited, we have snacks and a stack of books, magazines, etc ready to read our little hearts out!

Partly cloudy also means partly sunny.

2009-10-12T11:43:00.000-04:00

I took this weekend off to go to a local art trail. There was a brochure with a map on one side with numbers of various art exhibits and on the back was a description of each artist and their work. There were over 50 places to go, but we only made it to 10. It was a wonderful experience because you're not only seeing their art, but also their homes, workshops and what it is that inspires them. They were all extremely friendly and more than willing to give detailed explanations and some even gave demonstrations. There was one girl in particular that I seemed to connect with. She was about my age, and a pottery student giving a demonstration in the back of the studio. We talked for some time and I told her she should come to where I work and we could talk some more. I hope she does, it would be nice to start making more friends in the area besides just the ones I work with.

There was another studio, photography this time, where a woman and I really connected but ironically enough, it was not over photography. I don't even think I mentioned that I'm into photography. No, the subject of our half hour discussion was chickens. She had a very large chicken farm behind her house and she told me all the ins and outs of raising chickens. (Free range of course.) She had all sorts of tips and stories and when we left she said "I hope next time I see you, you'll have some stories of your own." She was a very sweet young German woman, and very pretty.

The next memorable workshop we stopped at was a man named Gunther (who my mom actually knows) and he made wooden toys. They were exquisite! I probably spend the most time just staring at the Noah's ark set. They were so beautifully made and so detailed and the wood was just so pretty. It was like I was drawn in to the story simply by looking at the carvings. There was a Trojan horse with a trap door, just like the real one, that had a bunch of little carved soldiers that fit inside. Micah was quite taken with that one since he loves history, especially Greek history.

One studio in particular belonged to an old art teacher of mine. When I walked in and reminded her of who I was she was so delighted to see me. We spend a lot of time drinking apple cider and catching up on each others lives. When I mentioned

Another studio that I wanted to mention was that of this older woman who spent most of her life in Peru studying the people and their culture. She did silk screening, which prior to this visit I had never heard of, and had several collections based on ancient Peruvian myths. Most of which were very similar to those found in the Bible. There was a story of a flood, for example, only instead of an ark, all the animals gathered on a mountain to wait out the storm.

The last studio we went to belonged to an old art teacher of mine. When I walked in and reminded her of who I was she was so delighted to see me. We spend a lot of time drinking apple cider and catching up on each others lives. When I mentioned silk screening and that I had never heard of it before she said "Oh Ashley! I'm so sorry I never introduced that to you in my class!" And I thought it was sweet that she took a personal responsibility for my not knowing what silk screening was.

Over all it was a beautiful fall day, partly sunny (I like to look on the bright side) warm with a slight breeze and full of friendly people. There were so many places we didn't get to visit, so I think we will go to more next weekend. Micah was talking about bringing his room mate who is somewhat of an artist himself. He would really enjoy this art trail. I hope to have more stories for you next week of our art travels.

Sorry I don't have any pictures, but I didn't know how comfortable artists would be to have me taking pictures of their studios.

Fall

2009-10-06T11:22:00.000-04:00

It seems like we have skipped the leaves turning, sun shining, jacket wearing transition into fall and instead we have plunged right into the blustery, bundle up, rainy days. Although this week is supposed to be partly cloudy which to an optimist also means partly sunny, so that's promising. I am excited to say I have cracked open the fall clothes box and can't wait to show off my array of scarves, jackets and hats. (Most of which my mom has made.)

I painfully have come to realize that I pulled or strained my back, most likely at work. Sitting has become a very trying achievement and forget about getting back up! Little movements that were once taken for granted are now a thing of the past as I "oo, ahh, oww" my way through life in these next couple of days. Bending over seems to be impossible, I'm afraid I will leave a trail of little things I dropped throughout the day and decided it was better to leave them there than risk being in a permanent bent over position.

There was a "fear fest" at a nearby theame park over the weekend. My boyfriend and a few of my friends made a day trip out of it. We packed a lunch and a dinner and spent the day riding rides, being frightened and laughing. There was a haunted house that was done very well and was actually quite scary. The haunted magic show was pretty cool and left us wondering "how did he do that!" There was supposed to be a haunted bus ride around the camp grounds but the line for that was a 2 hour wait so we decided not to stand in line. All in all it was a fun day and I got the chance to catch up with some old friends.

This coming weekend and next weekend there is an art show with over 50 exibits to view. The pamphlet has a map on the back with numbers on all the places to stop. Micah and I are going to go to a few this weekend and a few next weekend to kind of space it out a bit. There's pottery, woodwork, painting, photography, sculpture, drawing, glass blowing etc. I'm excited and Micah even talks about how he can't wait to see it all. He has a taste for art.

New Room

2009-09-11T12:02:00.000-04:00

With fall coming my sinus cavities have been blessed with allergies. Sound great doesn't it? I have officially lost all use of my nose and an unrelenting pressure headache has taken up residence in my head for the past three weeks. In my desperation I have set my values aside as I have tried all sorts of over the counter medication provided with strict instructions by my co-worker pharmacist that if the symptoms persist to come to him again and he will suggest something else. So three attempts later I have gone back to my earlier theory that medicine is useless. Why would I spend money on a box of 14 pills that I'm only allowed to use for five days and if it doesn't work I have to spend more money on another box of 14 pills. So now I have three half empty boxes of pills that don't work and a lighter wallet... meanwhile my nose and head still profess their extreme hatred for fall in the most painful of ways.

So now I am doing what I should have done three weeks ago. I am going homeopathic. I researched on the internet about what to do for fall allergies and after work tomorrow I'm going to the store to stock up on green tea, ginseng tea, foods that contain omega 3, and a Neti Pot (if you don't know what this is don't look it up, its disgusting.) And I will be participating in my daily yoga, this time using a sequence of positions geared for clearing sinus pressure. I also ran across what is called Nux Vomica and is supposed to be a miracle remedy for cat allergies.

Starting tomorrow (becuase I already took a benedryl this morning) I will be OTC Medicine free and doing it nature's way. We will see over the next three weeks which one works better.

ALSO:
As you all know, I've moved again. Here are pictures of my new room/bathroom setup. I living room is still in the process of being cleaned and decorated so I will post pictures at a later time.

Boxes

2009-08-31T11:41:00.000-04:00

Everything is packed, waiting anxiously for the big move. I am so excited I can hardly wait. Just the thought of having my own bathroom is enough to get me going. Nevermind the huge walk in closet and the larger room and the living room... I have my own bathroom! Something I've coveted since I was a child and now I finally get one of my own.

I used the boxes from our delivery day at work... poise, pampers, mikes hard lemonade, many varieties of candy, and kibbles & bits. Haha, my poor landlords are going to be so confused! They're getting an alcoholic with a dog a baby and a bladder problem and an eating disorder. :-P

Micah started his classes today, which he was excited about. I like that he gets excited about school and actually looks forward to his classes. Only one year left for him! I've been missing Davis a lot. One of my friends who graduated at the same time I did, said she would be visiting Davis soon so we should coordinate our visits.

Today is official countdown day:

1 day till I move!!

2 days till So You Think You Can Dance season 6

10 days till Kickoff, first game of the NFL season, Steelers vs. Titans... GO STEELERS

11 days till my one year anniversary with Micah

15 days till my 21st birthday.

2 months till my allergies go away. :-(

Did I hear moving out?

2009-08-18T22:33:00.000-04:00

I believe last time I posted I was complaining about the woes of finding an apartment... well things have changed since then. It just so happens that I have found a place! Same town that I'm in now, a little farther down the road, is a small ranch house that has a furnished basement for rent. It has 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, a livingroom and even a spare bedroom, lots of closet space and its own entrance. The only thing I will have to share is the driveway and the kitchen. Which, considering the price and what it includes, I am willing to share. The owners are my age, married with two small children who are very well behaved from what I can see. This time it looks like I will be sharing a house with someone "hip" instead of someone who is generations older than me and thinks they need to be my "long lost mother." I have a mother, I don't need another one. This couple met me and my boyfriend and we really hit it off. I move in on the 1st of September. I am so excited! I feel like this will finally be my own space. Even though its the same kind of situation, (renting out of someone's house) its an apartment, not just a room. September 1st can not come fast enough.

Work is mediocre these days. In the economic hardship I'm lucky to have a job, but as Paula shockingly learned... I'm not making much $$. Its very hard for me to survive on what I make at my job so I have started looking for a part time job in my area to suppliment my income. I always have enough to pay my bills, but some weeks it gets hard. I'm tired of living week to week. I want to have a comfortable cousin in my account for "just incases" and I would also like to occasionally go shopping and not feel terribly guilty about it and wonder if I have just screwed up my monthly bills.

Micah is doing well at his job. He loves it. All the money he is making he is putting toward a car so hopefully by the end of the semester, he'll have enough for a decent clunker. We're adapting as much as we can to a long distance relationship. Its very hard, but we're strong enough to pull through. I just keep looking at all the stresses in my life and remind myself, this is only temporary. When I was in college, I hung the words "This too shall pass" across from my bed and when I got so stressed out that I just layed in my bed and cried, I looked up at those words and felt instantly better every time.