Thursday, November 17, 2011

5 weeks and counting....

I have so been slacking on blogging. And this particular blog post has been in the works for about a month. I blame it on pregnancy brain. I guess the blog is just lucky it didn't get a blank post because there have been days that, well, that's how my mind has been working at times... ha ha ha ha.

We have 5 weeks to go (as of tomorrow it will only be 4). I'm nervous, anxious, excited, and thrilled. J and I will be holding our little "Nugget" in as few as 5 weeks. I feel like time is just speeding up and speeding by. I'm hoping that everything will be ready in time.

The crib is finally made - now we just have to finish sterilizing and putting everything away...I think that's the hardest part right now because there are days that I have tons of energy and then there are days like to day where I have absolutely zilch.

Christmas is going to be here before we know it. I just want to make it through Christmas and then Nugget can make his or her appearance anytime. Just get me to the 28th --- I'll even back it down a couple of days from my original request date of the 31st.

And speaking of Christmas, I am excited as I usually am because I love Christmas. I love all the lights and decorations and for the most part, I love how people seem to be genuinely nice and kind to each other. I would however make 1 tiny little adjustment this year.

I want some (not a blizzard, not 16 inches in an hour, not a storm) snow. Just enough to make everything look crisp and fresh and well, for lack of a better word, Christmas-y. Here is it, Dec 19, and we've had bupcus for snow. Maybe a dusting that lasted 2 hours. Hell, the ski resorts are struggling to make snow. Most of November had temps in the 40-50's if not the low 60s. It's not that I'm complaining but still - it's December...I'd like a white Christmas...And for Nugget to show up after Christmas...just saying...

Random Fact: Didaskaleinophobia is the fear of school.


Monday, October 31, 2011

One of those days....

This weekend has just been a very long one of those days...I've just felt blah and somewhat sad. Perhaps this weekend was the worst and I'm not sure why. Maybe it's because J had to work, maybe it's because I want to do more for Nugget and can't. We're trying to wait until after the shower to start getting the nursery prepared/organized which I think is slowly draining me because all I want to do is get things done for the baby - yes it's official I'm nesting - and be with J.

And then there is the shower itself. I'm worried there won't be any people there. I mean did a bad weekend get picked to hold it? And before anyone says anything it's not about the gifts, while they are nice and incredibly, incredibly appreciated - it really isn't. I want people to be happy about this baby. I want people to love this baby as much as J and I already do. I just want Nugget to be celebrated. I want it to be a good time and just be with all my family and friends.

Then there's the nursery. I agree with the decision that J and I agreed to about waiting until after the shower. We don't know what we will receive at the shower and neither of us want to do a whole lot of running around returning things if we don't have to. Doesn't mean that's going stop me from having the thought running through my head that it's not going to be done in time. What if the baby comes early? From the date of the shower, it's only 2 months until Nugget's due date.

Labor is starting to weigh more on my mind as well. What if I can't handle the pain? What if I can't do it? What if we don't make it to the hospital in time?

I miss J. Tonight is just a very emotionally filled night.

Random Fact: Tigers can mate up to 50 times a day!


Saturday, October 15, 2011

Respect...Family...

I'm sure this isn't just another hormonal rant. Fairly certain. At least I know it's not 100% hormonal driven...

What is it about in-laws and lack of respect that seem to go together? Deep down I know it's not all in-laws and it's unfair to lump them all into one category but for the purposes of this post - I'm sorry if you're one of the good ones. 

Now I know we're all partial to our "side" of the family. I'll admit it; I prefer being with my family rather than J's, not that I don't love them. It's just hard to be around them sometimes. It wasn't always that way however, something changed drastically and to be completely honest I'm not sure what it was other than it seemed to have been sometime around our wedding (J is the 'baby' of the family - fyi). I don't want anyone to walk away from this post thinking that I don't care about my inlaws because I do - they are part of my family. I wouldn't have my husband, who is the world's most wonderful, sweet, kind, and caring guy, if it wasn't for them.

My biggest peeve is that there is a lack of respect for J and I as a couple. For example, if someone comes up with an idea for a joint gift for another person in the family  unless J is the one to answer the question after we've discussed it and looked at our budget, it seems like the decision is up for questioning or debate. Last Christmas this situation came up and the topic was repeatedly brought up until J said somethings, despite me saying and repeating that it just wasn't in our budget and we couldn't swing it. Or if I state my opinion/thoughts on a subject during a discussion either I'm wrong and/or I get corrected (ie told) why I'm wrong. To a point I feel like the general consensus is that I'm temporary and that they have to tolerate me long enough until I go away. Another example is that when HRPitA (or aka A) joined Facebook, she friended J and D but didn't friend me until J spoke up and said something (3 days or so days later), even after I asked him not to because at that point I didn't care anymore. The lack of something as simple as an invite spoke volumes. Even then it took like an additional 3 days for the friending to come along.

There are other examples but I think the point is made. Now, and this probably wrong on my part but I've just let most things go, for the most part unless they really have bothered me, but with Nugget on the way, I am feeling much more...irritated by the way things happen (or don't for that matter). A's favorite saying is "Because I'm the mom" and I get why she says it. However her children are grown adults, capable of making their own choices, decisions and dealing with the consequences. I don't want decisions or choices that J and I have made for Nugget (ex. no soda, no solid foods unless we're working on introducing them - and we give you what we're introducing, don't bash the decision to breastfeed or bottlefeed...etc) to be ignored because she feels that she knows better. It won't fly with me, not with our child. And the fact that it seems that I'm not listened to now, gives me great fears it won't change once Nugget is here.

I think the thing that bothers me the most about the whole situation is that I don't know how to change it. On one hand, I don't want to be the bitch of the family, that seems to go against the grain of what everyone else wants. On the other, I expect to be respected, just as they demand I respect them. I don't want to start family drama (I've had enough of that to last a lifetime - but that's another post) but I don't think what I'm asking for is all that outrageous or unheard of and I don't want to go to extremes to make my point, but for my family I will...

Random Fact: Porcupines can FLOAT!! Yup.

Saturday, October 8, 2011

26 Weeks Down, 14 To Go...

Time is flying by. I can't believe that it's already October. The end of the year rush is starting slowly and this year, atleast for J and I, there will be more than just birthdays and holidays in the mix. Nugget's arrival is approaching and we are very excited.

I'm starting to get antsy. Very antsy. I want to start buying things - clothes, crib, dresser...etc - and it's not helping that there are a ton of sales on clothes now and they are so cute. However, we are waiting until after the shower in order to compare what we need with what we receive (and dashed with what we want...(:  )

The good news is I have relaxed for the most part about the pregnancy. I still have the occasional bouts of "is the baby ok?" and "why isn't Nugget moving more" or "Am I eating right/exercising enough/did I do something that could harm the baby" moments but they are coming less often than before (and it only took 6 months! LOL). I've definitely been hit by preggo brain. Atleast once a day (usually more) I forget what I was going to say/do. I'm still doing well with my blood pressure and my weight so congrats to me!

J and I (along with D, L, and L's sister) just got back from Disney not to long ago and we had a blast. While I couldn't go on a lot of the rides that I would have liked to, J and I got to do some of the things that we hadn't done before. We caught some of the shows and street acts that they do, parades, pin trade with cast members and I got to shop for different things (mainly for the baby...LOL). There were a lot of cast members who asked how far along I was, when I was due...etc. I can't wait for Nugget's first trip. :) It's going to be so much fun.



Random Fact: The lungfish can live out of water for several months in a state of suspended animation.

Friday, September 16, 2011

Kick, Kick, Wallop

Tonight was the first night that Nugget kicked that there was no doubt what I was feeling. It's so cool and so weird. It makes it so much more real. There really is someone in there growing and becoming more active. My hand actually moved. I've been feeling little thumps and taps but it's hard to distinguish sometimes whether it's baby or gas bubbles moving around (and let's be honest here - pregnant women get gas. Get over it). What has better is that there was more than one - there were about five - and I could feel the hand or foot (whichever was actually doing the thumping) as it hit me. I just wish J could have been home instead of working to feel it as well.

Today was a great day. :)


Random Fact: Mosquitoes are attracted to the color blue twice as much as to any other color.

Ugh! So tired of it....

I should really, really be sleeping however......I have a mini-rant.

I don't know why there is even a speed zone outside of my house! No one follows it and no one enforces it so why bother?!?!? I want spike strips and the ability to use them consequence free. Or better yet - I'd love to put a speed bump or a speed divot (think inverted speed bump) in the road at the edge of my property so that when speeders hit it they know. It's just so frustrating and it seems to have gotten worse this year. I don't know if I'm just noticing it more or what but it's getting to the point that I'm going to contact someone - as soon as I find out who to contact. Part of my reasoning is that there are kids in the area (not to mention L who I nanny for and my own bundle of joy) and there are more people who are walking on the road now (which is another whole topic on it's own). I'm afraid that someone is going to get hurt or killed because some idiot can maintain 30 mph for 200 ft (or whatever the distance is - which isn't far in reality) until they reach the village limit. I literally live like 3 or 4 houses from the sign! UGH!
Now that the speed rant is over....

Things here are doing good. Nugget is kicking more and more (and I can feel it!) and J has gotten to feel it - both by listening to my belly and by actually feeling it through my belly with his hand. Had a really good appointment on Monday where the midwife said I was doing wonderfully and we got to hear the heartbeat on the doppler again. Life is good. J took my first belly shot picture other day - at my request (yeah I know!). It wasn't that bad. I don't want to not have any but I've been so anti picture my entire life that it's hard to believe that I'll ever look decent in one. I honestly didn't look too bad. I haven't gained any weight but that's probably going to start to change soon. I've been trying to watch what I eat (and not as it goes in my mouth either - lol) and make healthier choices when I find that I am hungry but it's hard and doesn't always go to plan. LOL.

Alright - back to trying to sleep.

Random Fact: A male butterfly can smell a female butterfly from several miles away!

Sunday, September 4, 2011

21 Weeks

Just over half way there. Five weeks later and I'm feeling a bit more confident about the pregnancy. I still have moments where I'll send myself into a bit of a panic about some things but those times are getting further apart, slowly. I'm also trying not to worry (ha!) as much. We had an appointment almost three weeks ago and we got to hear Nugget's heartbeat with the doppler. Nice and strong. I wish I could feel him (or her) move a bit more but our midwife said not to worry about it if I'm not feeling it consistently yet because of where the placenta is sitting. We also had an ultrasound last Thursday for the anatomy scan and everything looks good.

I worry about posting things about my pregnancy because I don't want to offend people. I've asked a couple of people if they mind when I post little blubs about the pregnancy or update pictures and I was told absolutely not; that I shouldn't feel guilty by any means (that I wasn't allowed) and that I have every right to enjoy my pregnancy - which I am believe me.

It just seems like now that I'm pregnant, I'm seeing other people who are struggling with infertility and I'm wondering if I was just blinded by my own pain to see it or if they are just now starting to coming out and talking about it. I certainly don't want to offend or hurt someone unnecessarily because I haven't forgotten what it was like to yearn for something so badly and having the ability to do nothing that it hurts to the core. I want those people to know - heck I want anyone to know - if you need someone to talk to, vent to, someone to ask questions, or just someone to listen I'm here. I will do all of those things. I am here for anyone who is going through this horrible, widespread pain.

And at the same time, I don't want people to make me feel guilty because I am enjoying every moment of this pregnancy. J and I have waited for this for a long time. I feel incredibly blessed to have this life growing inside of me. This precious life, bundle of joy. I love it at night when he listens to my belly at night and talks to the baby. The look of joy on his face and the amount I feel in my heart swells to new levels everytime. I didn't know it was possible to love him more than I already did but it is and it just keeps growing...

Now if we could only come up with a solid, loved, and agreed upon girl's name that fits my picky criteria and that J likes...LOL. We have a boy name all figured out, it wasn't hard at all. The name flows well together, goes with our last name, doesn't incite a fit of giggles when you say it out loud, has a couple of decent, non-tease-able, potential nicknames...etc Girl names however have become word association games and there always seems to be some reason why we don't this name or that. Was it this hard for our parents? I'm sure we'll find the perfect name, somehow, someway. Suggestions are welcome...hint hint hint...LOL

Random Fact: A tiny fire extinguisher came with Xerox's first successful copier because it would tend to overheat and burst into flames.

Monday, August 1, 2011

16 Weeks and Counting...

So yesterday was the beginning of week 16. I'm beginning to relax a bit though I think there will always be a bit of that nervous worry in the back of my mind until January. All in all I'm feeling good and am enjoying every day as it comes. Starting to think a bit more about the registry (and yes, believe it or not it kind of scares me) and how much stuff there is out there for babies. Gear from strollers to pack 'n' plays to bath time stuff to clothes...how is one supposed to decipher the needed from the luxury as well as the useful from the pointless...I'm definitely picking some brains. The other part that's making me really think is that with the exception of 2 babies, all of the other babies I know have been born in Spring or Summer...and we all know how January can be so I want to make sure we have appropriate attire to bring him/her home in.

J is having a blast. Last night he put his ear to my belly and tried to hear something going on inside. He said it sounds like water wooshing or constantly moving...Nugget already has Daddy wrapped...And I love it. :)

So, August is upon us already - where the heck did July go? What does August have in store for us? Well August is known as....

Admit You're Happy Month       Family Fun Month
National Catfish Month              National Eye Exam Month
National Golf Month                  Peach Month
Romance Awareness Month       Water Quality Month
National Picnic Month

And some of the weeks are.....

Week 1 (Aug 1st -Aug 7th) National Simplify your Life Week


Week 2 (Aug 8th - Aug 14th) National Smile Week

Week 3 (Aug 15th - Aug 21th) Friendship Week

Week 4 (Aug 22nd - Aug 28th) Be Kind to Humankind Week

And for the daily holidays....
1 National Raspberry Cream Pie Day
2 National Ice Cream Sandwich Day
3 National Watermelon Day
4 U.S. Coast Guard Day
5 Work Like a Dog Day
6 Chinese Valentine's Day/Daughter's Day (7th day of 7th Lunar Month)
   National Mustard Day (first Saturday)
  Wiggle Your Toes Day
7 Friendship Day (First Sunday in August)
   International Forgiveness Day (First Sunday in August)
   National Lighthouse Day
   Sisters Day (First Sunday in August)
8 Sneak Some Zucchini onto Your Neighbor's Porch Day
9 Book Lover's Day
10 Lazy Day
     National S'mores Day
11 Presidential Joke Day
     Son and Daughter Day
12 Middle Child's Day
13 Left Hander's Day
14 National Creamsicle Day
14/15 V-J Day - which date do you mark the end of WWII?
15 Relaxation Day
16 National Tell a Joke Day
17 National Thriftshop Day
18 Bad Poetry Day
19 Aviation Day
20 National Radio Day
21 Senior Citizen's Day
22 Be an Angel Day
     National Tooth Fairy Day  (May also be observed February 28)
23 Ride the Wind Day
24 Vesuvius Day
25 Kiss and Make Up Day
26 National Dog Day
    Women's Equality Day
27 Global Forgiveness Day
     Just Because Day
28 Race Your Mouse Day
29 More Herbs, Less Salt Day
30 Frankenstein Day
    Toasted Marshmallow Day
31 National Trail Mix Day


Random Fact: 16 pennies stacked up equals one inch, and 16 pennies in a line is one foot.

Sunday, July 17, 2011

Still in Awe...

So I'm officially 14 weeks now. I think part of me is still in denial - even after 2 ultrasounds confirming that there is life in there. Even after seeing his/her little hands waving and him/her sucking her thumb; After getting an adorably cute picture of in-utero feet, part of me still feels like it isn't real. I'm glad that it is though. After all the months that turned into years of trying, the tears that were cried, the anger, the self-loathing, the dream that J and I share is finally coming true. Soon, we are going to be parents. We are going to have a little one of our own.

The other part of me however feels like we have so much to do and not enough time. I'm worried the nursery won't be ready in time. I've had a nightmare about delivering in winter (which is when Nugget is due) and having the inappropriate attire, all summer clothing, to take the baby home in. Not to mention the giant red gummy bear that attacked me when I ignored my craving for them. Haven't ignored a craving again...Don't need a watermelon rolling over me or me swallowing a watermelon whole or giving birth to a watermelon instead of a baby...See now - all the scary thoughts are starting to run through my head as to what my subconscious can do to me while I sleep.

We've picked out the crib we want along with some other baby gear. It's hard to know what's really important to have versus what would be a luxury versus what's completely unneccessary. The car seat is a must obviously, along with the crib. But what about things like a wipe warmer? Or how about the sound machines that play the white noise (or crickets, streams, heartbeats...etc)? These are just a few of the thoughts that pass through my head on a daily basis.

And now I think it's time for bed. Right after I make sure I have no cravings...

Random Fact: Tampons have been used by U.S. Army medics as emergency wound care dressings. And as a side note, at the high school I attended I saw them used by the wrestling and soccer teams for nose bleeds...

Friday, July 15, 2011

More pictures....

Had another, unexpected, ultrasound yesterday. Midwife couldn't find the heartbeat with the doppler, spinning J and I into a whole other dimension...Everything is ok though. Strong heartbeat and a wiggly baby. :)




We even got a fairly decent picture of his/her feet with all the little teeny toes. :)


Random Fact: Statistically, you are more likely to be killed by a cow attack than a shark attack.

Saturday, July 9, 2011

Surprise....


We're pregnant.

Our gorgeous, amazing baby. 

Mommy and Daddy can't wait to meet you in January.

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Everything You Never Knew You Wanted To Know

For those who read this blog, whether on a regular basis or those who just read multiple entries casually, have an understanding how much I love random facts. I try to end each blog with some sort of witty, interesting, unknown, and well, most of the time useless, trivia/fact about the world around us. Who of us is really ever going to need to know that it's a fact that people who drink more coffee tend to have more sex? Or that most of the 90 million marshmallows sold during the year, the most popular months are October and December? Even if you didn't need to know it, thanks to me, you now probably do. Just send me a portion of your winnings from your trip to Jeopardy as a thank you.

Random facts has led me to another interesting nitch in our society. Odd holidays throughout the year or what months have a National observence attached to them. So, seeing as how it's currently the month of June (though really where has the month gone?)...Let's turn our attention, courtsey of all the information available on the internet, to see what this summery month has (had) instore for itself and us, of course....

About the month of June. June is known as National:

Aquarium Month  **   Candy Month  **   Dairy Month  **   Gay Pride Month  **   Rose Month  **   Turkey Lovers Month  **   Flight of the Filthy Fly Month  **   Adopt A Cat Month  **   Accordian Awareness Month  **   Fresh Fruit & Vegetables Month

June also has a weekly observences. The first full week is:
Fishing Week. (Just remember most aquariums have a strict no fishing policy)
And the second is:

Email Week.

Now to the daily holidays. Most of the days in June have atleast one "holiday assigned to them. Some have more.
June 1st:
Dare Day  ---- The day where it is your obligation to dare someone to do something, or to pull a prank. This day is always June 1st and possibly originated in England.
June 2nd:
Flip a Coin Day ---- All you have to do to celebrate this festive occasion is, yup, flip a coin! Dating back to Julius Caesar who would flip a coin, sporting his image of course, to make a decision when the right course of action was unclear.
Rocky Road Day ---- If Rocky Road is your favorite ice cream, this is your day. Have a dish or two, heck three and celebrate!
June 3rd:
Bubba Day ---- Celebrating anyone and everyone who is or wishes their name was Bubba. Curiously Bubba is the Yiddish words for Grandmother.
Doughnut Day ---- (1st Friday of the month) Go eat a doughnut and celebrate!
Repeat Day ---- The day where it's perfectly fine to keep repeating yourself to annoy anyone you choose.
June 4th:
Applesauce Cake Day ---- A delicious old world treat!
Hug Your Cat Day ---- Because cats need cuddles too. Remember June is also National Adopt a Cat Month, so you have no reason not to hug a kitty.
Old Maid's Day ---- Starting in 1946 to unite soldiers coming home from WWII with unmarried ladies who had yet to find their Prince Charmings.
June 5th:
World Environment Day ---- Well this is a good thing; We all need to be more environmentally conscious.
June 6th
Gardening Exercises Day ---- And down, pull that weed, up, toss it in the wheelbarrow, and repeat...Remember to stretch!
Yo-Yo Day ---- Remember walk the dog? Rock the baby? Elevator? No? Well today is the day to grab your yo-yo and learn them!
June 7th
Chocolate Ice Cream Day ---- This means we can enjoy the ice cream guilt free right? It would be wrong not to celebrate....
June 8th
Best Friends Day ---- Awww...Celebrate with your bestie!
Name Your Poison Day ---- Hmm...maybe we shouldn't celebrate this day...
June 9th
Donald Duck Day ---- It's everyone's favorite Duck!
June 10th
Iced Tea Day ---- Celebrate with a tall cold one.
Nursing Assistants Day (First Day of Nursing Assistants Week) ---- Gotta love those nurses! Bake some cookies and share with your favorite nurse.
June 11th
Hug Holiday ---- Hug it out!
June 12th
Red Rose Day ---- And if hugging doesn't work - a bouquet of Red Roses should do the trick...
June 13th
Sewing Machine Day ---- Go sew something!
June 14th
Flag Day ---- A day to celebrate the wonderfulness of Ol' Glory.
June 15thSmile Power Day ---- Smile. Always. It'll make them wonder what you've been up to. :)
June 16th
Fresh Veggies Day ---- Go pick a plethera of colors from your garden
June 17th
Eat Your Vegetables Day ---- Now eat those veggies you picked yesterday
June 18th
Go Fishing Day ---- Grab a pole and catch a big one (or atleast spin a tall tale about the one that got away....LOL)
International Panic Day ---- Today you may panic and worry about all the holidays this month you didn't celebrate!!
National Hollerin' Contest Day (third Saturday in June) ---- Hoot and holler to your heart's content and win a prize!
National Splurge Day ---- Need a new pair of shoes? Want a new purse? Buy anything without guilt today!!
World Juggler's Day (Saturday closest to June 17th) ---- Time to show off those knife skills you learned...
June 19th
World Sauntering Day ---- Walk like you own the world today!
Father's Day ---- Celebrating all the special men around the world!
June 20th
Ice Cream Soda Day ----Whooo! Get all the extras - whipped creme and a cherry!!
June 21st
Summer Solstice ---- Longest day of the year and the official start of summer! Have a s'more!
Go Skate Day ---- Strap on those roller skates or roller blades and take a spin around the block.
June 22ndNational Chocolate Eclair Day ---- Guilt free of course.
June 23rd
National Columnists Day ---- Read your favorite newspaper, magazine, or online writer and compliment them for informing or entertaining you!
National Pink Day ---- Wear your pink with pride!
Take Your Dog to Work Day (Date Varies) ---- Cause man's best friend needs some variation in their life too.
June 24th
Swim a Lap Day ---- What better way to spend the day than in a pool?
June 25th
Log Cabin Day ---- Not really sure how you're gonna celebrate this day...Have some syrup maybe?
National Catfish Day ---- ?? Really??
June 26th
Stay at Home Mom's Day ---- Celebrating all of those mom's who stay at home.
Beautician's Day ---- Thank your stylist!
Forgiveness Day ---- Forgive someone who hurt you or that just crossed your path today doing something stupid.
June 27th
Talk Like a Cheesy P.I. Day ---- You see there was this dame. She had a pair of walking sticks on her I tell ya...Didn't trust her though, she was too cool for the scene she was drawing me...
Sunglasses Day ---- I wear my sunglasses at night....Celebrate with your favorite pair!
June 28th
Insurance Awareness Day ---- Hmmm...Wonder who made up this day?
Treaty Day ---- Yeah - not sure how to celebrate this day either....
Paul Bunyan Day ---- And his big blue ox too!!
June 29th
Camera Day ---- Spend the day taking pictures!
Remote Control Day ---- Who gets control of the remote tonight?
Waffle Iron Day ---- In the morning - make some waffles!!!
June 30th 
Meteorite Day ---- Oh no the sky is falling!

July is coming soon - maybe instead of one long post next month - I'll just add the "holiday" of the day in my blogs...hmmm...there's a new idea...

Random Fact: Sharks grow rings on their vertebrae as they age, similar to growth rings found inside trees.

Sunday, June 19, 2011

Die for Me by Amy Plum

So I found this book through one of the websites that I frequent regularly. They have a "If you like...then you'll love..." section on books (the website itself is dedicated to a book so it makes sense). Most of the books they've suggested have been iffy as to whether they would mesh with a picky reader (that would be me for those wondering) after reading the synopsis given by the suggester. I'll also look up the book on my favorite book sellers website (who will often let you preview the first chapter or two - very nice!) to see if I can garner more info/insight on the book from there before I make a decision on whether I'd like to read it or not. Some of them just aren't my cup of tea whether it be subject matter or the style of writing. Then there are some that just don't catch my attention fast enough to keep me going (this part I am trying to work on and I have, in the past, forced myself to finish a book that has gotten me bored beyond possibility).

Then you have the ones that you just can't put down. Amy Plum's Die for Me is one of those books. The first book in a trilogy series catches you from the beginning, or at least it did for me. It delves you into a world that's set outside of the states, and in your mind, allows you to visit one of the most romantic cities in the world - Paris. The heroine is a strongly written character with some angst following a tragedy. It's about character who, while she knows what she wants just can't seem get outside of her own head at times and about her learning how to do that again. It's also about love, faith, trust, and starting over when you've been so powerfully kicked in the teeth.

There is some supernatural to this book as well but it's not the usual vampires, werewolves, and demons that have been floating around the book world as of late. It's not overpowering to the story but it does drive the angst and is definitively woven into the story line.

All of the characters have been left room for growth and while it may seem like it's just another supernatural drama book, similar to others that are on the market, it's not in my opinion. While I won't lie and say that readers won't see similarities (whether from the author's descriptions of people or things or from the readers own reading past/imagination) it's got it's own story to tell and will stand on it's own merits. Kate and Vincent are miles away from that other well known literary couple. ;)

Bottom line, Die for Me is a wonderful book and you should pick it up today! :)

Random Fact: A picture of Gandalf the Grey (from The Lord of the Rings) can be seen in the collection of great wizards in Professor Dumbledore’s study in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Movie or Book?

Here's some food for thought...

Would you rather read a book and then have it made into a movie or see the movie and then read the book that inspired it?

I've experienced both situations. I saw the first Harry Potter movie which made me curious to read the books and with Twilight, I read the books before the first movie came out. Personally I prefer to read the book first and then if there happens to be a movie, I'll watch it. The reason being is I like taking the author's words and forming what I think the world looks like in my head. Books are also able to give more depth, description, and background than that of a movie - mainly because of time constraints. Though, I will admit, it is nice to see what you portray in your imagination live on screen.

Take Harry Potter for example. I believe that Goblet of Fire is the worst movie of the series. It feels, to me, incredibly rushed, disjointedly pieced together and does not do the book justice. I understand that the length of the books increase as the series went on and things needed to be prioritized as to importance to the story but I believe that in this case the story was completely edited. For example, the two Academies that join Hogwarts in the competition do not arrive at the beginning of the school year they arrive after it has started. We do not see the Dursley's and the Weasley's meet for the first time when they arrive to pick up Harry - which in my opinion would have been hilarious! Again, it is understandable the difficulties in converting a thick book into a movie with time constraints but in the case of the Goblet of Fire I feel too much was cut.

Opinions? Thoughts?

Random Fact: 50% of all marshmallows sold will be roasted.

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Sunny Days and Smiles

And I want a perfectly roasted marshmallow. The joys of summer. The smell of a campfire, the laughter of your friends. The warmer weather always brings out the more joyful side of me. Has to be from all the vitamin D that the sun gives. Or maybe it's simply just the warmth of it's glow on my skin because we go six months a year without feeling it.

I mean, don't get me wrong, I like the snow. For my birthday, Christmas, heck - even New Year's but after that I could care less if we have it. The month of December really is the only month I'm really concerned about having it - maybe January but the full month is pushing it. For the other 10 months give me the sun - doesn't have to be 85 degrees, I'd honestly settle for 65 or 70 for most of it.

I'm definitely looking forward to this summer. :) Not sure what's planned but I'm sure it will be something worthwhile and definitely fun. Oh - and my roasted marshmallow.

Random Fact: Americans buy 90 million pounds of marshmallows each year, about the same weight as 1,286 gray whales. Most are sold during the months of October and December.

Monday, May 23, 2011

Please shut up.

You there -- Yes, you. You -- the little annoying voice in the back of my head. Could you please just shut your trap - say forever? I'm tired of hearing you and your annoying nasally whiney voice. You're nothing but pain my rump and I really dislike you. You make everything harder than it absolutely has to be. You can't make anything easy or smooth sailing.

I don't ask for much. I really don't - so if you could just please go away. Go bother someone else. I've had you long enough - I dont want or need you any longer. I'm sick of you and your bothersome thoughts.

*sigh*

If it were only that easy.

Random Fact: China was the first to use paper money.

Sunday, May 22, 2011

I can not stand...

Fake people. People who clearly have the brains and the knowledge to do what they are supposed to do but don't, unless there's someone to impress or prove that you know what you're supposed to be doing. Things like, scraping your plate into the garbage if there is uneaten food on it or picking up your garbage instead of leaving it laying around. How about forgetting responsibilities, like dogs, family? I've never thought I'd see such ungratefulness. It's to the point that I want to look at this person and go - you're an adult can you please freaking act like it? Please stop acting like a petulant child. Grow the hell up.

It's even worse when you're in close proximity to these people. Maybe I'm just being bitchy.

Random Fact: The male penguin sits on the egg instead of the female.

There's so much...

So much that I want to say. I've been thinking about how I wanted to start today's blog and what I wanted it to be about for most of the morning while I did things around the house. One thing that I've come to realize is that:

I hate that I am a quasi-packrat.

I'll save things, thinking that they're important, or that we'll need them to refer back to at point down the road. Or it will be something that someone important gave to me so I'll keep it thinking that if I gave it away/threw it out that I would hurt that person's feelings. I've slowly been coming to terms with those issues as I've been going through the house purging rooms. I'm not perfect at it, but I think I've gotten a little bit better at it. I'm more able to look at things and say as much as I love it, there's just no room for it in the house anymore or that it just doesn't fit who I am anymore. I've found a way to repurpose some things that I've emptied because of either purging or reorganizing and they've made good additions to cleaning other areas of the house up. One of the areas that really bothered me was J's fish tank. Because it's saltwater, it has different elements and minerals that have to be added to the water to keep the inhabitants healthy and before hand they were just all over, now they are neatly in a 3-drawer tote. J says it's nice because they are all in one spot and easy to find.

Random Fact: The first non-human to win an Oscar was Mickey Mouse.

Saturday, May 21, 2011

Blogs are for speaking your mind

Aren't they? Don't people usually start a blog so they can share their feelings and opinions with the world with fear of ridicule - or at the very least - controlled ridicule?

I know I started this blog because I needed a place to vent. I needed a "safe" place to share my thoughts and feelings but more often than not I am finding myself worrying about what people would think if I truly put something I feel strongly about in my blog. I'm going to really work on not worrying about that. I've always said that I'm willing to hear opposing sides as long as they are shared/voiced respectfully and without trashing my views.

I honestly don't even know how many people read this blog but I don't do it for the readers. I do appreciate comments because it lets me know that people either agree or disagree with me. I'd like to have more readers because eventually I would like to be able to share things I've written on here. Just have to figure out how to "protect" my prose so that people can't copy/paste it and claim it as their own.

I've changed the background because I was inspired to do an update by my very good friend Sheri. You should check out her blog,The Mama in Me, she's really insightful and very inspiring -- again hence the change in background. I hope everyone likes it. My last couple changes have been very dark in color, thought beautiful, and this time I wanted something that was visually very different and opposite of what I've had in the past.

I guess there really isn't a point to this blog tonight. I originally started it with a completely different topic in mind, but me being me, changed the direction of the blog because I was worried about what someone might think. Well, maybe I'll indulge slightly. Is it possible that I'm too serious and there's something wrong with me? I mean, is it possible that there are things that I should find funny and I just don't? I mean, is it wrong when someone takes a joke (or several jokes) too far or someone claiming they are so mature when their actions just scream immaturity and I just don't want to be a part of it? I don't think I am tackling this topic correctly - the lack of examples is probably not helping, but unfortunately I have no overcome my inability to care if the wrong people read this so I think I shall just end it here.

Hoping for another gorgeous day tomorrow...

Random Fact: Odontophobia is the fear of teeth.

Friday, May 20, 2011

Rain, Rain, Go Away!

What a rainy and gloomy month it's been so far. I wish it would warm up for good and stay that way. I want to be outside. I miss the sun. I miss its warmth. I'm ready for this dreary crap to be gone.

The television season is drawing to a close for summer (again, see 1st paragraph) and the season finales didn't disappoint (atleast not to me for the most part). Bones' finale was...1/2 way between awesome and OMG. Brennan and Booth had comfort sex - or it's about freaking time sex (whichever you choose to call it) and she's pregnant. Though we have seen - nothing. Actually we've seen almost less than nothing -- hint hint Mr. Hart Hanson -- while I don't need to see the hardcore skin on skin, it would be nice to see something. A kiss, a loving gesture, something that indicates that what's between them is concrete - please your fans have waited 6 seasons. 6 - SIX - Seasons and we would like just a little love. Though I'm glad that they found a way that didn't feel fake or half-assed thrown together, that this is finally something that's very real between the two of them. Oh not to mention Angela and Hodgins' baby (Michael Staccato Vincent Hodgins) has been born health and sighted - not to forget cute as an ever living button.

CSI:NY was pretty awesome as well considering they were unsure of whether they were going to be renewed or not (mostly in part to being stuck in a death slot on Friday nights - way to go CBS) but they managed to make a season finale that was both subtle (meaning it could have been a series finale if needed) but also sweet. It also leaves next season open for a pethera of story lines. Danny was promoted (but needs to find a loophole to staying in the lab...which I'm not sure why he couldn't --- I hope the writers have a decent idea to go with this) and Mac finally solved the last cold case on his desk --- until next season --- LOL. Definitely a first for CSI NY - who usually finds a way to end the season with an explosive cliffhanger.

Hawaii 5-0. Let me tell you for a freshman show - they certainly found a way to ensure their next season. Pregnancy, treason, murder, robbery...etc all of those (and probably a few I missed) were all included in one episode. The cast of this show is so well casted; I can't think any one cast member that doesn't really fit. I wasn't sure what to think of Scott Caan (Danno) when I first heard about him being on the show but he's really funny. It'll definitely be interesting to see what happens in the shows sophomore season...

Random Fact: The average person spends two weeks of their life waiting at traffic lights.

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

This weekend...

This weekend was rough. I want to have a 1st Mother's Day. :( I don't spite anyone, I just wish it could me too. I want to join "the club".

Random Fact: Frozen lobsters can come back to life when thawed.

Monday, May 2, 2011

Blah...Such a Cheery Post...Blah

Having a very blah sort of day today. Can't really bring myself to get excited about something that I probably (and most normal people would probably be) about and I can't seem to get myself to care that I'm not excited or even care that there's a possibility.

I'm sick of certain people treating J and I like we don't mean anything. I'm sick of our kindness being taken advantage of and sick of immature people. I'm sick of certain people having all the time and money in the world for everyone else but hey - J and I were there for you in a really dark time in your life but that shouldn't mean anything. But ya know - it's ok - it's not like we're family or anything --- oh WAIT - yes we are...Hmm...that should mean something. Hate to inform you of something you should already know - but family means everything to J and I -- Family is there for each other no matter what. Family is thicker and stronger than other bonds and attractions. Your family should always come first.

Just frustrated and don't know what to do. I feel disconnected and I don't like it.

Random Fact: The average person has over 1,460 dreams per year.

Saturday, April 30, 2011

Waiting, Waiting, Waiting.....

I hate waiting! Waiting sucks....

It's amazing how time can both go incredibly quickly and incredibly slow all at the same time. It's like when you're not looking or you're having a good time, time flys by and you're looking at the clock asking where did the time go? But when you're waiting for something or you're expecting something, time just crawls and you're looking at the clock going that only took me 5 minutes?

Ugh.

Thursday, April 21, 2011

Oh the sights we see...

So I was driving this morning and I really have to wonder how some people get their driver's licences. I was on a major highway, sharing the road with 3 other lanes of traffic, doing about 65 mph. When all of a sudden I watch the vehicle (she was slightly a head of me) to my right veer further right. I figured something was wrong and she was pulling over to the shoulder. I became slightly more concerned when I didn't see any brake lights come on. Without fail this lady went up and over the median (in a minivan) at approximately 65 miles an hour because she had missed her exit!

Where are people's brains when they are driving??!!??

Anywhoo..

J and I watched The A-Team finally. It was hilarious!! There were parts of that movie I was laughing so hard I was crying! I don't know if it was meant to be that funny but it was. I remember I didn't think too much of the cast of characters when I first saw the preview for the movie. I mean Liam Neeson? Turns out it was a really good cast ensemble.

There were some very comical movies put out last summer - The A-Team, The Expendables, Red...I'm hoping this summer has the same field of good movies. I've been perusing comingsoon.net and the trailers on Apple.com and there have been a couple that I'd like to go see. Scream 4 (call me a sucker - I love these movies - they're hilarious), Fast Five, the final (so sad!) Harry Potter, Dylan Dog, Abduction (with Taylor Lautner) and Thor - to name a few.

Random Fact: All major league baseball umpires must wear black underwear while on the job (in case they split their pants).

Saturday, April 16, 2011

I Did It!!!

I did it. I blogged (more or less) for 30 days straight. Yay Yay! Bonus points for me! I enjoyed it - it was nice having a creative outlet and it was nice to write whatever I wanted without a care. It was also nice to have some predetermined topics - something to get the writing juices flowing.

J and I went to Barnes and Noble yesterday and picked up a couple of new books. He got a new book from each of the two authors that he's been reading and I picked up the Twilight Illustrated Guide. I've read a bit into it and so far it's actually pretty neat. The first 80-ish pages are an interview that Stephenie Meyer did with another author that she's friends with and it's really good. It gives good information about how Twilight actually became to being and why Stephenie didn't really consider herself an author until much later (after I believe New Moon was published). It also gave some interesting insight on writing itself. Definitely a good read from what I've read so far.

I think I'm going to start doing a review on books I've read or movies I've watched. I think it will add depth to my blog. Something to think about....

Random Fact: If a wolverine was the size of a bear, it would be the strongest animal on Earth.

Day 30 - 30 Days of Truth

Day 30 - A letter to yourself, tell yourself EVERYTHING you love about yourself

So I've been thinking of how I was going to write this "letter" that is the topic of today's post for the last 3 days. I'm not good at talking about myself. I'm not good at pointing out the good things about me. Sure, I can talk about the wonderful things in my life; my husband, my family, my friends, my puppies...etc.

I love my perseverance. I love my resilience. I love that I can get back up again after being repeatedly kicked. I love my husband and love the way I know I make him happy. I love the fact that I know he loves me. I never thought, despite all of the bumps in the road, that I could be this happy. I love my ability to love to read. I love my desire to write and even when I get stuck I keep writing. I'll start a new story, I'll read someone else's...

I love life. The bumps in the road, while not always pleasant, are just part of the enjoyable ride.

Random Fact: Canada eats the most macaroni and cheese per capita out of every other country in the world.

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Day 29 - 30 Days of Truth

Day 29 - Something you hope to change about yourself. And why.

My weight. I know I'm not at a "healthy" one and I want to get there. I want to look better in clothes and feel better about myself. I want to feel more active and enjoy things more without having to worry. I want to be able to shop without feeling like crap about myself. I'll get there. :)

Random Fact: It is estimated that at any one time, 0.7% of the world's population is drunk.

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Day 28 - 30 Days of Truth

Day 28 - What if you were pregnant or got someone pregnant, what would you do?

If I were pregnant I would be ecstatic.

And scared. I would wonder if this was the real thing or if it would be another cruel trick.

I would be ecstatic. There would be no words.


Random Fact: A lump of pure gold the size of a matchbox can be flattened into a sheet the size of a tennis court.

Monday, April 11, 2011

Day 27 - 30 Days of Truth

Day 27 - What's the best thing going for you right now?

I have to ask what is up with these questions? Ugh. The best thing that is going for me right now? Spring is coming and with that comes warmer weather.

I have J. I have family. I have friends. They are all wonderful, supportive, loving and the best people someone could ask for.

My answer feels like a bit of a cop out because it feels like the standard answer but it's the first thing that came to mind when I read the question (which might I add, with atleast the 2 questions that preceeded it, not feeling the positivity right now). And ya know what? It's the truth. I have a wonderful, caring, supportive husband who loves me very much. And my family and friends are always there. They've all been with me through thick and thin and with everything going on their support and listening have never once wavered. So I don't have just one thing going for me, I have everything.

Random Fact: Having blue eyes is actually a mutation. Before the mutation occurred, all humans had brown eyes.

Sunday, April 10, 2011

Day 26 - 30 Days of Truth

Day 26 - Have you ever thought about giving up on life? If so, when and why?

Wow -- Two days worth of introspective and morbid questions that in my mind are decidedly the same. Seeing as how I basically answered this question yesterday I'm going to choose to ignore this one as well because the short answer is no. *shakes head*

So onto...I'm not exactly sure. I'm having an emotional day today and I'm not enjoying it. I hate feeling unsure of myself and where I stand with things. I hate days like this. I have so much to say yet when I try to get it out - I have nothing. In my mind my thoughts are some good and some bad, and I don't know if I'm thinking it out of anger because I'm ticked off due to the struggle or if it's truly how I'm feeling. I don't want to say things that I'll regret so I'm hesitant to put down the things I'm thinking into words. Yes, I can always delete the post(s) but that won't delete the memories from the people who read it while it was up.

I've been thinking of trying to put up some of the writing ideas I have in my head or that I'm working on. Just to see what people think. Not sure though; not sure I want anyone to be able to read them because well, not sure they're that good...I do want to get back into writing more. I would really like to be published one day.

I'm glad spring is coming. I'm glad that the warmer weather is approaching. I'm looking forward to spending more time outside. I can't wait to see my lilacs bloom this year. J and I bought two new ones last year and I'm excited to see what they look like. One is supposed to be a grey color (the picture looked really pretty) and the other is a striped one (Very excited about that one - I've never seen a striped lilac).

Random Fact: When Heinz ketchup leaves the bottle, it travels at a rate of 25 miles per year.

Saturday, April 9, 2011

Day 25 - 30 Days of Truth

Day 25 - The reason you believe you're still alive today.

Because my parents taught me not to play in the street as a child? Because I don't run with knives or scissors? Because I know better than to wear a plastic bag over my head because it tells me not to?

Seriously what kind of question is this???? It is incredibly ridiculous and to be honest morbid. I honestly would like to think if I became anywhere near suicidal that someone in my family would love me enough to get me the help that I would need. As someone who's family has been affected by suicide, I can not think of another way to wound another so deeply.

I know I get down on myself when things are looking rough but it's never looked desolate. It's never looked so bad that there aren't any other options. And beyond that I have so many, many wonderful things in my life. There are so many thing that I haven't done that I want to.

So I guess my real answer is...because my life, no matter that there are hard times; no matter how dark it looks; no matter how frustrated I get; is worth living.

Random Fact: Thomas Edison, the inventor of the light bulb, was afraid of the dark.

Day 24 - 30 Days of Truth

Day 24 - Make a playlist to someone, and explain why you chose all the songs. (Just post the titles and artists and letter)

I didn't forget yesterday - I've just been struggling over what to do with this day's blog. The topic is dumb (I literally felt like a pre-teen again making a mix tape when I read it). For those of you who don't remember mix tapes - or tapes in general anymore - a mix tape was the geriatric version of burning a cd for someone with a bunch of songs that have meaning for you/them/or of you being together...etc. I thought about posting video from Youtube that I liked; such as Glee's renditions of the True Colors and Over the Rainbow....
And then I found these really awesome fanmade videos that I thought would be pretty awesome to post because well that's the Booth and Bones Shipper in me....And that was going to be the post - real fluffy and light - nothing specific or really motivational or mind blowing.



But then I got on Facebook yesterday...and well truth be told I struggled whether or not to address what I had read on there. The status really did irritate me and originally I thought that it was pms but then I kept thinking about it and I kept going back to it. I read the comments and I kept thinking about it. The post made me feel bad (and I had nothing to do with it) because I do occasionally swear and for those who know J & I know that with his profession it's something that's heard frequently. People in his profession are actually taught/trained not to be sensitive to it. I don't swear (intentionally) around children, and I certainly don't go yelling it at the top of my lungs for anyone in the world to hear. I wondered if I wanted to go there on my blog - did I want to post someone else's status because it amazed me? Because it irked me? Would people think I was too critical of the poster and tell me that my opinion is lacking because I don't have children of my own yet? Some may say that I can't really have formed an opinion on this situation because I don't "know" what I would do yet. Would it open up a can of angry worms? Then I decided - screw it - this is my blog, these are my opinions and well tough donkeys if you don't agree. Post a comment - let me know - give me some feedback. I'm always willing to listen to an opposing position. So without further adieu - here we go. I have copied the status from Facebook - but I have blocked out any and all identifying factors because it's the right thing to do (and even if it wasn't I'm not that cruel/mean/insensitive to go blasting people's names and faces all over the internet!) In order to read each section please click on the picture - there are three in total.




Now I agree that the children were acting inappropriately and should have been spoken to because I would have done the exact same thing. Children need to learn that there is an appropriate way to act/talk in public - especially if they think that they'll get away with it because their parents aren't there.

Now people who know me (and J for that matter) know that we're not overly religious. We believe in God, we believe in Heaven and Hell, we believe in Saints...etc. The things that bother me with this post have nothing to do with the praying for the schools or the commenter who suggested homeschooling as the answer to "protect" the children. I will not attack someones beliefs because I do not wish mine to be attacked. That's another issue with this world that people have no qualms about attacking another's beliefs because they feel theirs to be superior. I do not believe that mine are superior over this posters (or those who commented) just different. Ok..now..

 The things that bother me are that:
 #1) You're the adult. You shouldn't be afraid or bothered to approach a group of children that are doing something in appropriate to correct them - unless there is an adult that is responsible for supervising them. It's called discipline/correcting/behavior modification (whatever you want to label it). That's what responsible adults do -- among other things they teach them respect and responsibility for themselves as well as respect for others. That's what our teachers do in the classroom, daycare providers or babysitters do when you're not around because that's how children learn right from wrong. Why do you think schools ask for adult volunteers when they go on field trips? To help keep the children engaged and attentive.

I agree that there is such thing as overexposure that can lead children to think that some things in life are the norm when they aren't. But again, that's why there are adults that are supposed to be regulating access and allowing a child to have a childhood. Children should never be able to dictate and usurp authority from an adult.

#2) Use it as a teaching experience for children! Yours or otherwise. The poster admits that her children didn't even acknowledge this situation. Children are not going to be able to be protected from everything. They can't be put in a bubble, you can't keep them locked up at home forever (well at least you shouldn't because that's unhealthy). At some point, somewhere, at sometime in their lives they are going to encounter something that you don't like/value. Use these things are educational experiences. "Son, I didn't like those words that man was using. That kind of language is unacceptable in our family." "Daughter, did you see how that woman was dressed? That's not how someone who respects herself (and/or her body - depending on the age in my opinion) dresses." 

#3) Don't blow stuff out of proportion. Kids are going to be kids and at a certain age they rebel. They push buttons, they try to blur boundaries. They're trying to form their own identities, figure out who and what kind of person their going to be. It's part of growing up! Don't you remember your parents telling you not to look in that box, say that word, poke your sibling -- what did it make you want to do more than ever? You wanted to look into that box, you wanted to say that word, you wanted to poke your sibling. By blowing something way out of proportion and making it a bigger deal that it really it you just drive the urge to find out why....

Now that being said - I have to say that I have seen a serious decline in responsibility these days - both in parents and in children (and how can you expect children to be responsible (and take responsibility for their actions) if their parents aren't/don't?). There are some people that definitely shouldn't be parents because they can't, whether because they're too young, or they're constantly struggling to make ends meet and then there are some who - and this is sad to say - just repeating the cycle that they know. I've seen people who just seem like they don't care and get defensive when you tell them that their child is tearing down a display of cookies (because their little angel could never be doing that). People really do need to be held responsible for their actions and those of their children. And yes at some point in a child's life - and I believe this point to be before they are actually a recognized adult (which is usually around age 18 in most modern parts of the world) they can be held accountable for their actions. Most children are taught right from wrong from the start (No! Don't touch the stove - it's hot!.....You need to wait in line until it's your turn....We need to pay for this/that/things before we can use/play/eat it...Yes, that's a good way to share...etc) and they are plenty old enough (I would say by age 14 for most things) to understand the consequences of their actions. The line my parents used to use with all of their kids was that when we weren't with them - we never knew who knew them. And think about it - did you know everyone who knew your parents? And I (and I'm sure my siblings did too) knew that if my parents heard about anything that wasn't kosher with them if wouldn't be a good thing.

One thing that my parents gave me growing up was their trust. I had their trust unconditionally until I lost it and once I lost it there was no guarantee that I was ever going to get it back (Their words not mine). I cherished that trust because I was allowed to do a lot of things, such as going away to Canada for a week with my boyfriend (who is now my husband J) and his family one summer, going to see midnight showings of movies with my friends, not having a set curfew...etc, because my parents trusted me to make the right choices. I still had to ask for permissions for things but the answer was rarely no unless my parents had a good reason (and I respected that).

The only thing you can do is raise your child and have faith that what you said/did/taught them stuck. They're going to do things that you don't like and hell, they may even choose a profession that you don't agree with. They're going to be their own person and yes you can guide, shape, influence those choices but for the most part (and this when they are older) you can't make those choices for them.

I guess I'll get down off my box now...

Random Fact: The first couple to appear in bed together on national television: Fred and Wilma Flinstone.

Thursday, April 7, 2011

Day 23 - 30 Days of Truth

Day 23 - Something you wish you had done in your life.

Started trying to have a family sooner. Maybe we'd have more answers. Maybe we'd have a child or two already. Maybe there'd be less incertainty. This whole situation sucks. I hate it.

Random Fact: Recycling a 3 foot stack of newspapers can save one whole tree.

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Day 22 - 30 Days of Truth

Day 22 - Something you wish you hadn't done in your life.
I wish that J and I had done a little bit more looking when we were looking for a house. I wish we hadn't been in such a rush - for lack of a better term - and had taken more things into consideration before we had decided. We were anxious to move out of my parents house and start our married life. I wish we had thought about location a little bit more and layout. It's not that I don't love my house, I do - there are just some major things I would like to change. However because we have decided that we're not going to live here forever we've decided that we're not going to make the house exactly the way we want it (ie gutting the first floor to redo the layout). We'll do renos - don't get me wrong - we have been, just everything we are doing is more for resale value and quality looks than necessarily our idea of "perfect".

Random Fact: The typical porcupine's body is covered in 30,000 razor sharp quills.

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Day 21 - 30 Days of Truth

Day 21 - Read this scenario - Your best friend is in a car accident and you two got into a fight an hour before. What do you do?

No question. I would be at her side in an instant. Arguments are trivial and when a life hangs in the balance it doesn't matter anymore what you were fighting about. There will be time for discussion and resolution (if it even matters anymore) later. You never want the last words you say to a person to be something mean, spiteful, or hurtful because you'll regret it the rest of your life.

Best friends are best friends because they are alike enough to not let trivial things come between them. And hopefully they are grown up enough to realize that when the big things come along, that they can't be controlled and it's not anyone's fault. Be supportive and be there for each other through thick and thin on both sides. It's a hard lesson to learn and yes - it hurts. There are times it hurts so much you think it would be easier to just run away but it wouldn't be. So you swallow the pain and put on a smile and you're there for each other because you know if it was the other way around, she'd be there for you.

Random Fact: The reality TV series Jersey Shore is called "Macaroni Rascals" in Japan

Monday, April 4, 2011

Day 20 - 30 Days of Truth

Day 20 - Your views on drugs and alcohol.

Personally? I don't think you need alcohol or drugs to have a good time. I don't drink that often - if I have 5 drinks a year that'd be alot for me. I just don't see the point but then again I'm a control freak and alcohol (as well as drugs) take away that control so maybe there's a point to me not seeing a point to them....Anyway...Alcohol is already legalized and controlled - works out well for the most part and there are laws/consequences to those who use while underage or in a manner that's not safe (drinking and driving). J will have the occasional beer and he usually limits it to 1 or 2. He doesn't get sloppy drunk and he doesn't drive if he's been drinking. I have no problem with alcohol as long as you're not fall down drunk near me and you don't puke on me. I do think that people who have to continually get that way to have a good time, then blame the world when something bad happens to them have a problem and should seek medical help to kick the habit. I'm not saying that they deserve to have a bad thing happen to them but when you put yourself in that situation it's hard to feel sympathy - not that it isn't there. I hope that makes sense.

Makes me wonder what would happen if the government tried to regulate the sale of drugs, like marijauna, cocaine, and methamphetamines. I mean it would create new jobs in the healthcare industry or something similar because someone would have to distribute it. It would lessen the trafficking of drugs into the country (and those caught doing it could face more severe penalties) becaues people would be hired to grow/create the drugs in a controlled and safe environment. There would be quality control standards so the user would know they aren't getting something cut with bleach or laced with glass. People would have to pay for it which would stimulate the economy...People who want to use are going to use and they're going to get it no matter what it takes - nothing is going to stop that unfortuately - so instead of sweeping it under the rug and pretending it isn't there - why not be proactive about it? It would better educate our children (they could go on tours of medical facilities where people are seeking help kicking a drug addiction as well as to clinics where the medication is sold...) about staying drug free and about the dangers of using.

Just my thoughts anyway.

Random Fact: An iceberg contains more heat than a lit match.

Sunday, April 3, 2011

Day 19 - 30 Days of Truth

Day 19 - What do you think of religion? Or what do you think of politics?

I believe that religion and politics are something that are never discussed over dinner or drinks. Too many people become defensive when their beliefs and/or views are challenged and rather than listening to the other side (even if you think it's wrong) they'd rather get their hackles up. I also think that people have worked too hard in this country (and possibly the world) to make each side such a competition with the belief that only one side can win rather than trying to find a compromise (like we teach our children when they have a dispute) that it's a system that is in dire need of work.

I believe in God. I have no problems saying it. I have no issues admitting it. I'm not ashamed of it. However, do I believe that I have to go to a building on a certain day of the week or at certain times of the day to prove that I do? No. I believe that God loves me no matter how I choose to worship.

With regards to politics...In all honesty I think we need to go back to the way that this country was run centuries ago. That you only got paid when you worked and that politicians were no better than the people who elected them. No separate healthcare plans, no bonuses, no quid pro quo (I'll help get you elected, then you put my people, family, friends...etc in your cabinet/office...etc) no million dollar salaries, and it didn't take being a millionaire to run for office. If you wanted a private driver, they went  on your payroll, not the governments. Just because you are an elected official you do not lose the ability to drive yourself places. Sorry to burst your bubble on that belief.

I'm willing to listen to peoples' arguments on these topics, maybe I learn something new - maybe I learn a new way to look at something. Maybe more people should take that view...

Random Fact: Human thigh bones are stronger than concrete.

Saturday, April 2, 2011

Day 18 - 30 Days of Truth

Day 18 - Your views on gay marriage.

My views on gay marriage...well so much for the easy questions....

I believe that every person in this world deserves to be in a happy, stable relationship regardless of the choices that get them to that point. I look at it this way - for the most part - just as I don't want someone constantly pressing their religious beliefs upon me, I don't want someone pressing their sexual preference/choice on me. If you're gay or lesbian, fine, that's how you're living your life (choice or not) and if your happy then forget about what anyone else says because frankly, my opinion doesn't matter. We were all born into the world the same way, naked and screaming, and therefore should have the same options for living our life.

Random Fact: In the Middle Ages, chicken soup was believed to be an aphrodisiac.

Friday, April 1, 2011

Day 17 - 30 Days of Truth

Day 17 - A book you've read that changed your views on something.


To be honest? Harry Potter changed my views on books. I judged that book by it's cover as a children's book and I was wrong. While it's no War and Peace or Anne Frank's Diary it's still taught me that, as our gradeschool teachers taught us, not to judge a book by it's cover. Reading this series has definitely changed my mind as to what makes a children's book. It's also changed my views on wanting to be a published author - It's something that I want to do now versus something that would be fun before.

I love books because they allow you to escape into a world that you visually create from words. You take someone else's vision, ie. Hogwarts, Hogsmeade...etc, and you put your spin on them. Yes, you have descriptions of how things look, or smell, and feel but there is still so much more that you can design. I love the power imagination holds. I love that you can read, hear...etc the same thing as someone else, but if you were asked to draw what you see in your mind when you read, hear that particular thing that you probably won't have the same answer as another person.

Random Fact: Hippo milk is pink.

Thursday, March 31, 2011

Day 16 - 30 Days of Truth

Day 16 - Someone or something you definitely could live without.

Another easy one...I'm starting to get a little bit scared. LOL. Infertility. The trouble that J and I are having to have a family - I could definitely live without that. I could live without the stress and the fear that goes along with it. I could live without all the blood draws, all the pokes, prods...all the setback. The pain, the hurt -- that can go away anytime. I just want a family with J.

I could definitely live without it being a taboo topic. I could live without feeling like my friends don't care (and I know that they do - please don't get me wrong - they just are like the rest of the world and don't know what to say). I could live without seeing my friends get pregnant and watch them move on to a new chapter of their lives while I get left behind (or atleast that's how I'm feeling). I could live without feeling like I'm helpless and a loser.

Well isn't this a cheery little post. Bite me.

Random Fact: Athazagoraphobia: Athazagoraphobia is the fear of being forgotten

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Day 15 - 30 Days of Truth

Day 15 - Something or someone you couldn't live without, because you've tried living without it.

Without even thinking this question is the easiest that I've had to answer in 15 days. J. I couldn't live without J. We've been together for 14 years. I don't know how to live without him - I don't know how to be "me" without him. And I know that this is probably the standard "proper" answer but it's the truth - he truly is the other half of me. We were apart for 5 months at one point, and went on a sporadic living situation a little while after that and it was hard. Indescribably hard. It was hard only having a relationship by letter and by phone. I would have to say that by letter is harder because it's hard to tell inflection, tone and full meaning behind a letter (and I have to add that the only way to write a really meaningful letter is by hand - I'm sorry.) atleast by phone when you can talk, you can hear the other person's voice and things can be a little better interpreted.

Now, if I had to pick something other than J, I would have to say probably - the internet because of how well connected it keeps the world nowadays. I mean if you need to look something up, more than likely it's online or you can find enough information to contact whoever or whatever you're looking for. It's made the world a much more diverse place. You could never leave your home and be ok for the most part as long as you have an internet connection. Clothes, food, movies...everything is pretty much available at the touch of a button...

What do you think?

Random Fact: Anatidaephobia is the fear that somewhere in the world, there is a duck watching you.

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Day 14 - 30 Days of Truth

Day 14 - A hero that has let you down. (letter)

Hmm...A hero? Aren't heroes supposed to not let you down? Oh -- wait -- I got it!


Dear Every Cliche Romantic Movie Male Lead:

First off I want to thank you for allowing me to believe in romance! From Matthew Broderick in Ferris Bueller's Day Off, Heath Ledger in 10 Things I Hate About You, A Knight's Tale, Ryan Phillippe in Cruel Intentions, Freddie Prinze Jr in She's All That, Summer Catch, I Know What You Did Last Summer...etc, to Paul Rudd in Clueless, Chris Pine in The Princess Diaries: A Royal Engagement, Marc Blucas in First Daughter, and Johnny Whitworth in Empire Records, Peter Dobson in Sing, Shane West in A Walk to Remember.

These movies taught us that romance always wins in the end. No matter what happens the guy and the girl always end up together, someway-somehow in the end. That the guy will start to listen to his heart (and brain) in the end instead of his friends and the couple always makes each other a better person. No matter what you do, make a stupid bet to make fun of a classmate, get paid to take one sister out so the other can date, lie about who you really are, be sneaky and conniving to try and get what you think you want...etc...and in ever circumstance it doesn't matter because love conquers all.
However, real life doesn't always work the way it does in the movies. Sorry to burst that bubble. The guy doesn't always do the right thing and there isn't always someone there to catch you when you fall. More often than not peer pressure wins and people feel pressured to think en-mass with their friends rather than do what they know is the right thing. The silver knight doesn't always swoop in at the right second to rescue the damsel, who may or may not be in distress.

In the real world, people lie, people do hurtful things with and without thinking, people go out of their way to conceal their deceit. People willingly do hurtful things to people without a second thought and it doesn't always work out in the end. Sometimes you just have to cut your losses and realize that some people won't ever grow up or won't ever realize the error of their ways. Some people thrive in drama and tension filled situations and won't ever learn. Some people just simply can not care about anyone other than themselves under any circumstances. Sometimes things happen that people have no control over, such as families moving across the country before people have the opportunity to see where things may go or just going in different directions because their interests differ.

So thank you movies, thank you for giving girls around the world fodder for their dreams and hopes. I wish somedays I could live my life in the movies because everything is perfect there. If it wasn't who'd go to see a movie like that?


Ok I've had a bit of fun now really...People who are put on pedestals, especially really high ones, tend to fall (and depending on how high those pedestals are those who have fallen have a tendency to get hurt through no fault of their own). "Heroes" are no different than anyone else in this universe. Despite how ethereal they may seem, they are only human and are therefore fallible.  Personally, and for mainly this reason (yes there are others), I don't consider anyone I look up to as a "hero" - I consider them a mentor, or possibly an inspiration because I know they're human. Everyone makes mistakes whether they want to or not. It's how we respond to the mistakes we make that make us who we are.
 
Anyone agree? Disagree? Have a different POV?
 
Random Fact: A man is 4 times more likely to get struck by lightning than a woman.

Monday, March 28, 2011

Cool video

I really wish I could make videos like this. Here's my newest Youtube Fav...TheLovelyBones1

What do you think?

Day 13 - 30 Days of Truth

Day 13 - A band or artist that has gotten you through some tough ass days. (write a letter.)

Wow...If I had to pick one band/artist that has gotten me through some tough days my initial gut thought is Lifehouse. They have so many songs that just plain fit to the world going on around me. So...

Dear Lifehouse,

Thank you for producing and putting out music that speaks to the current state of my soul. It Is What It is is a song that just calms me and allows my brain to process what I'm feeling/thinking. The lyrics are just common sense and it's simply putting what's going on can't necessarily be changed - it is what it is. I've included three of my favorite songs, via video, and why they are important to me.


The song All In just rocks because it's the truth. If you're going to decide to do something you have to be all in. Just reaffirms my decision to continue to do what J and I have been doing and going through.

Whatever It Takes just rocks and again, just reaffirms that I'm - we're - willing to do whatever it takes to reach our goal.


I guess all in all my point in this letter is that you make music with lyrics that are just as moving as the music. I'm also in love with Storm because to me it basically means that it's ok to be mad even if there isn't anyone to blame - that sometimes things just happen.

So finally, in conclusion - thank you Lifehouse. I don't know how you keep doing it or if the songs are as meaningful to you as they are to me but thank you and definitely keep it up.

PS. If you could also release your music to (or show interest to seeing your songs on) Glee...'cause well that would just rock. :)


Random Fact: During the day, if someone sings a song around you, 90% chance you will find yourself singing it sometime during the day!

Sunday, March 27, 2011

Have you heard this?

You have to watch this video! Listen to the lyrics...Awesome!!!!!!

Day 12 - 30 Days of Truth

Day 12 - Something you never get compliments on.

Something I never get complimented on is probably my sense of style because I really don't have one. LOL. I wear what's comfortable, not what's necessarily in style. I'm very much a jeans and tee shirt kind of girl. I'm happiest when I'm relaxed and having fun. I don't feel the need to be all dressed up all the time.

Not much else to say - maybe tomorrow I'll have more to share or thoughts to expend upon but for right now...I'm going to enjoy the rest the day spending time with my family. :)


Random Fact: 2,500 lefthanders die each year trying to operate a right handed device.

Saturday, March 26, 2011

Day 11 - 30 Days of Truth

Day 11 - Something people seem to compliment you the most on.

Lately? Probably my perseverance. My seemingly unwaivering ability to keep trying despite being kicked in the teeth repeatedly.

Today has been an incredibly rough day. Don't have much to say. Don't feel like elaborating on it either. Maybe tomorrow.

Random Fact: Hummingbirds can't walk because their legs and feet are not designed for it.

Friday, March 25, 2011

Day 10 of 30 Days of Truth

Day 10 - Someone you need to let go, or wish you didn't know.

Given the mood that I'm in today this could turn out to be a very bad post. I'll try to refrain from making it a bitch session.

I honestly can't think of someone that I need to let go but someone I wish I didn't know (I'm going to add someone I didn't know of to this topic), well, isn't that a whole other issue. I wish I didn't know all of the people who get everything they want easily, without trying, every single time they want something. I wish I didn't know of people who are so twofaced, underhanded and low they they stoop to any level to get what they want, despite the harm and pain that it may (and often does) cause others. I don't understand how people can live like that. :(

Random Fact: The New York Stock Exchange started as a coffee shop.

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Day 9 of 30 Days of Truth

Day 9 - Someone you didn't want to let go, but just drifted.

There are a couple of people I think about when I read this topic. The first is S. E. We were gradeschool friends, lived down the road from each other and for a few years, well, we were best friends - despite not going to the same school. It was during that awkward time of growing up when boys and girls were starting to notice each other noticing each other and you couldn't be just friends without rumors starting. It wasn't like that with us, we were just friends and it was simple.

However because life is a constant change, we drifted simply because we were growing up. High school causes so much change within a person it's amazing that we are able to stay friends with anyone during that time. I hated it. It hurt so much because we were so close but I understand now that it had to happen because if it didn't or hadn't we wouldn't have been able to grow as individuals. There will always be a special spot in my heart for S.E. I will always wish the best for him but what happened happened and you can't change the past.

With the other two people, B.G and S.F., family moves caused the drifting and it sucked. These were the people I sat with at lunch, and complained about teachers with. They were half of the group that I had memories from Darien Lake with (B.G was the first person to get me to go on the Viper with) and S.F was my sounding board for the anxiety-ridden thoughts that ran through my head. There are days, when things are horribly bad, that I wonder what would have happened if they had been able to stay, but then I think of all the wonderful things in my life and realize it's not so bad.

The good news is that through the lovely power of the internet (and facebook - thankyouverymuch) I have been able to reconnect with both S.F. and B.G. which is very nice. With regards to S.E., I think it's better to leave somethings in the past and remember the good times when needed.

I guess the bottom line is that things do happen for a reason (yes I just used that line and yes, I still really do dislike that line) but it's true. There is a plan for all of us in the universe and whether we like it or not (or get really frustrated because we have no flippin' clue as to what it is) it's going to happen. Sometimes you just have to have faith and hope that you're making the right choices and if you make a wrong one, learn how to make it right. (Wow...I'm waxing philosophical today.....)

Random Fact: The color of the Sun is actually white.