a life less ordinary

bon iver - skinny love

2012-01-18T15:00:00.000-05:00

Food.

2012-01-04T23:13:00.001-05:00

I've been reading blogs about food tonight. Started on Pinterest, casually browsing. Then searched "overnight oats," which led to hundreds of different pins. I chose a few and proceeded to look at the sites the pins came from. Several were from vegan sites... which made me start to wonder about that type of lifestyle choice. One recipe came from a site called "[So&so] Eats Real Food." For some reason, that name made me laugh. We, or those of us who choose to eat well/naturally, are sooo very proud of our way of life. There are so many blogs about natural-eating, natural-living, etc... It is really interesting to me that living "naturally" needs to be talked about. Long-ago, that's just the way people lived. 100 years ago, I doubt that girl would go over to her neighbour and say "Oh, I just ate the most delicious lunch. All-natural quinoa with lime, cilantro and fresh roasted red bell pepper on top of a bed of organic baby kale, sprinkled with chia seeds and a dab of homemade hummus." Now, don't get me wrong. I'm all for natural. The more, the better. I like raw foods, I wish I only ate raw/natural/organic. But I don't. And I'm sure those who do are vastly more healthy and will live several years longer than I. My only point is that it's funny that we talk about it. I do it too, though. I talk about my cornstarch-baking-soda deodorant, cider vinegar "conditioner," olive oil face cleanser, etc... But why? Why are we (general "we"-- you, specifically, may not be) so proud of doing things in a more "natural" manner or eating well? And being so proud, need to tell others about it. And on the other side, we want to hear about it! I'm always reading this-or-that blog about natural-living or whatever, tonight is the perfect example.

It's just funny, that is all. Shouldn't it just be the normal("natural") way to live and not the hot-topic of conversation?

Renew.

2012-01-04T15:28:00.001-05:00

I can't remember the last time I didn't make a new years resolution. So I'll not let this year be any different, albeit a little late. This year, I have a theme [place post title before each resolution and it will make sense].

... my Walk.

... my stand on less screen-time.

... my creativity with parenting.

... my commitment to purposeful/careful discipline.

... my healthy lifestyle.

... my food journal.

... my exercise "regime."

... my tea time.

... my routine.

I like resolutions. They make me feel... resolute.

res·o·lute/ˈrezəˌlo͞ot/

Admirably purposeful, determined, and unwavering

"Mom,

2011-12-22T12:57:00.001-05:00

it feels like babysitter.org in here."

-Elsie

Said Elsie:

2011-12-12T14:29:00.003-05:00

"Mom, I'm kind of scared. Do you remember when I was three and you wanted to brush my hair? And I didn't want you to. And you said if I didn't brush my hair, then you would send me to North Carolina where kids have no mommies and daddies, and they only get to eat rice and fish."

....um....

I did tell her that if she didn't let me brush her hair she would look like an orphan. And then explained that an orphan was someone without a mommy and daddy.

Someone has their memories mixed up. And hopefully that someone is Elsie.

Bah...

2011-12-10T20:16:00.001-05:00

Humbug.

Not really, it's just been a long day/week. There are so many fun things I want to do with and for the kids, but it's been so busy lately that I feel nothing gets done. Thank goodness for the advent calendar... at least they get to do one semi-fun thing each day (even if it's only removing the object held by the clothespin).

Father Time, please slow this life down.

December.

2011-12-07T15:17:00.001-05:00

How is it here already? Honestly, November just started. I do love the holiday season, though this one will go by too quickly and life will change.

What will the new year bring, I wonder... but I try not to think about it too much. Just focus on now. Today. And enjoy this time.

Things I love this season:

Christmas lights ("No! Christmas stuff!" says Marlene)
Fire in hearth
Mr. Magoo
Comfy sweaters
Christmas music! (specifically: Aaron Neville, John Denver, Hanson (shhh.), Sleeping At Last, Sarah McLachlan, etc...)
Scent of cinnamon, oranges, cranberries, cloves, pine....mmm.
Family
Friends
Chilly air

....and so much more. But my children are waking up so I must go.

Love this. Best friend and best baby.

cough....

2011-10-31T10:21:00.002-04:00

...................................eeeeeee!

Reading, Readers

2011-10-28T14:10:00.000-04:00

I've been reading too much lately. I was passed down a Kindle for my birthday, and I've been using it too much. Seriously. I've always been this way. As soon as I become interested in a book, I have an intensely difficult time putting it down. And I get agitated when others (namely, "children") try to pry me away from the story I'm focused on. It's not good. This last book I read needs to really be my last for awhile.

Also, I'm drinking too much coffee. Amos is not happy with me. Reading and coffee must go hand-in-hand. So maybe if I put the "books" away, the coffee consumption will cease as well. Let's hope. Certainly house-sitting a home with a Keurig doesn't help matters.

Oh, the joys of convenience.

Changing subjects, four children is a lot more of a challenge than I imagined. When it was just Elsie and Judah, we did a lot of colouring, finger painting, crafting, reading, etc. When Marlene came along, there was a bit of a decrease. And now with Amos, a steep decline in all things "fun." It seems the day revolves around tasks and just surviving without losing my mind. Not that my children are difficult- they're not. It's all just me, and my mental-ness. I feel as though my mind has issued a road-block and will not allow anything to enter except regular activity (meals, naps, bedtime). It's like I don't have the patience to even get out materials for creativity, except maybe once a month, with much begging. I immediately think of the mess that will be made and it's hard enough struggling to keep the house in some sort of decent order. Now that I've complained for a minute, let me also explain that this is something that I want to change. I need to come to terms with four. With chaos. With mess. With a healthy amount of disorder.

Focus on what really matters-- which does *not* include trying to obtain a dust-free, mess-less home.

.tumblr

2011-10-26T15:10:00.002-04:00

I have one. Officially... or unofficially. Experimentally. Permanency to be decided.
Trying to keep up with the times (they are a-changin').

Find me. It won't be hard.

Elsie Quote-of-the-Day:

2011-10-14T14:24:00.002-04:00

"So, we don't drink other people's blood... but we can drink our own blood?"

...out of context it sounds awful. But she was referring to the blood coming from her loose tooth, after I told her that it was ok if she swallowed some.

this is my winter song to you...

2011-10-12T15:58:00.001-04:00

If I had a million dollars....

2011-10-03T15:24:00.001-04:00

I'd be rich.

Pumpkin.

2011-10-01T15:50:00.000-04:00

Summer is basically over now. I saw pumpkins in the grocery store. Why is time flying by so quickly... so carelessly... there is no sense to it.

I guess I'll embrace change. Goodbye summer - hello fall.

If only I were Nancy Drew.

2011-09-27T11:22:00.000-04:00

When I first made my "(we)b-log," I signed up with a website counter that kept track of visitors/readers. It doesn't do anything really, except to show how often the blog is viewed and the IP address... and sometimes the location (like city/state/country) and referring url. It's pretty pointless, but it's always been on there and I just haven't taken the time to remove it. I was looking at it today, and I noticed that there was a recurring "referring url"... so I clicked on it because it looked odd. It took me to this weird site, some site that has pictures of France and Germany, but I didn't see any links on it.... until I clicked a little "show/hide" arrow... which uncovered like a hundred links, to various blogs I guess, in alphabetical order. Mine was on there. How? Why? It was so strange. I don't really care so much as to who is accessing my blog from that site... what I really want to know is why my blog is even on that site to begin with. And I don't really know how to investigate such a thing. Here's the link if anyone wants to see for themselves: http://dongo.org. The pictures seem to change each time the page is opened. Underneath the the picture and text on the left side, there is a little double arrow thing (>>).... click that and it will show an extensive list of websites. Mine appears as "Annieehall"...

Help me solve the mystery :)

So long..

2011-09-18T12:13:00.001-04:00

But not goodbye... it's just been so long since I last wrote on here.

Judah has an ear infection, I think, so it was a long night and it's turning into a long day already.

I am sad. I'm sad that summer is ending. While the heat does get overwhelming at times, I love the feel of summer. Cold hurts me. I do love the holiday season too of course, but if I had to choose between an "always hot" climate or the opposite, I would choose always hot. Not many agree with me, but that is ok.

Why is it that memories are so important to us. I want to simplify. I want less stuff in my house. But when it comes to actually getting rid of things, it's hard. Harder than it should be. And I'm better about it now than I used to be, but I still have difficulty in letting things go. My children have too many toys, and I want to change that. So I start sorting-- and those ratty dolls with crazy hair and no clothes, those are the hardest to let go. Because they were mine, once upon a time, and I love(d) them. If the doll belonged to anyone else, and I saw it in my child's room, I'm sure I wouldn't see beauty in it. I would see dirt and grime, ugly hair, etc... it would be easy to throw it into trash/transfer box. But because it was mine, I see beauty. I see love, sweetness, an awesome retro doll that should be kept. Should it be kept? WHY are memories, and things that hold memories so very important to us/me? I don't know. It's the same with pictures. I love pictures, but at the same time I don't... sometimes looking back is difficult-- should we be able to look back?

...my children are growing up too fast...

Anyways, I'm beginning the journey of simplifying yet again. It will be a never-ending journey I think, but I'm up for the challenge.

"We will miss this"

2011-06-21T15:32:00.000-04:00

...said by Justin on a particularly crazy day. I believe he is right.

I was trying to remember at what age we moved Elsie and Judah from the crib into a little bed, thinking it was around 2. I started looking through some photos to find evidence. While the search didn't produce what I was looking to find, I did instead uncover some wonderful memories.

Motherhood

2011-06-08T15:25:00.002-04:00

“She came tonight as I sat alone, the girl I used to be…
And she gazed at me with her earnest eye and questioned reproachfully;

Have you forgotten the many plans and hopes that I had for you?
The career, the splendid fame, and all the wonderful things to do?
Where is the mansion of stately height with all of its gardens rare?
The silken robes that I dreamed for you and the jewels in your hair?

And as she spoke, I was very sad for I wanted her pleased with me…
This slender girl from the shadowy past the girl that I used to be
So gently rising, I took her hand, and guided her up the stair
Where peacefully sleeping, my babies lay innocent, sweet, and fair.

And I told her that these are my only gems, and precious they are to me;
That silken robe is my motherhood of costly simplicity.
And my mansion of stately height is love, and the only career I know
Is serving each day in these sheltered walls for the dear ones who come and go.

And as I spoke to my shadowy guest, she smiled through her tears at me.
And I saw that the woman that I am now, pleased the girl I used to be.

- Author Unknown
Quoted in Womanly Dominion by Mark Chanski

Found on Passionate Homemaking Blog

watermelon for breakfast

2011-05-30T08:58:00.003-04:00

A random array of thoughts this morning led me to start thinking about my Harley Davidson hoodie. The most frustrating aspect about losing things, especially things you care at all about, is that you know that it is *somewhere*.... it has to be somewhere... you just don't know where. And after 6 years, I still wonder about that hoodie. Who has it? Where is it? Has it found its home in a landfill? Salvation Army? Someone's closet? And what would I do if I saw someone wearing it? Would I say something? I think I would. Unfortunately, I've realized that I keep a list of things I've lost in my head. It's frustrating.

Here's a nice song to listen to...

In all honesty...

2011-05-20T14:01:00.001-04:00

I never know what day it is.

I put a pair of dirty socks in the trash can.

I went looking for trash bags in the refrigerator.

"Welcome to the world, Amos" (-Judah)

And now my heart stumbles on things I don't know...

2011-04-28T14:18:00.000-04:00

Today is day 2 of my post-due-date waiting period. This is when I start getting anxious. Even if I really don't mind not having the baby today or tomorrow, or even the next day... I just hate not knowing. But it teaches me something about patience each time I have to go through this, so I guess it is good in the end. Tuesday night mom made eggplant parmesan, and I had some of the leftovers again for lunch today. Maybe, just maybe, it will do something. I need to go on a really long walk too.

And my random thought for the day is... old friends. I found this girl on facebook that I probably haven't seen since I was maybe five or six years old. Seriously. But at that time, we were best friends. I even named my first pet cat after her. I thought about adding her, just to say hello. But then decided not to. What would the point be really? What is the significance of "best friends" at that age, when you don't stay in touch. Does it create some sort of connection? Or is it pretty much meaningless? I'm not saying it is one way or the other, it's just something interesting to think about. Life is so strange.

Oh, we need a middle name that goes with Amos and Hall. Suggestions?

Easter Present.

2011-04-25T09:05:00.000-04:00

2011

Easters Past.

2011-04-23T16:56:00.005-04:00

2002-2004

2005

2006

2007 (Not Easter, but couldn't find any others)

2008

2009

2010

It's amazing how fast time goes by.

In these bodies we will live...

2011-04-19T15:40:00.000-04:00

{in these bodies we will die.}
-Mumford&Sons

My children aren't sleeping today. I made the mistake of telling them what we would be doing after their naps, and that is usually the cause of sleeplessness. Arg. I think it may throw me off more than it throws them off when they don't nap.

I have one more week until I'm officially due. My cousin, who was due within a few days of my date, had her baby yesterday. Another girl that was due the same time went into labor today. This means nothing in regards to me and when I will go. And I'm so very happy for them. But it does make me feel slightly more impatient. Honestly, I really don't mind waiting, because life keeps me busy. It's the unknown that is hard, and that's always been a problem for me. Not knowing when, what, where, etc... about any given situation is more of an issue than the actual change or difficulties endured. Life is full of "unknowns" so I better get used to it quickly.

I try not to post unless I have something "interesting" to share... a discovery, piece of news, tidbit of fresh information, picture, video, or something of that sort. Today I'm struggling because I have nothing to share. But I'm thinking. And I will think of something.

Ahha. A tidbit. On April 22, take your travel mug (or regular mug would work too, I guess) to Starbucks and get free brewed coffee or tea. Yay! All in the name of Earth Day.

{where you invest your love, you invest your life.}

This morning.

2011-04-07T10:34:00.002-04:00

Judah loves it.

Frozen Yogurt Fail

2011-04-06T14:23:00.000-04:00

Justin bought me an ice cream maker for Christmas. I've been dying to try it out, so Monday I got it out and put the bowl in the freezer (at about 1:30pm). It was supposed to take anywhere from 6-22 hours to freeze. This was my first mistake: trying to rush it. We wanted it to be ready that evening. I poured all the ice from our ice bucket into the bowl, thinking it would speed things along. That was my second mistake: the ice. After we had a nice delicious dinner with Abby and Troy, I made the base for "Coffee Latte Frozen Yogurt." It was a mixture of milk, plain gelatin, and sugar... all heated together. Then that mixture had to cool. This was my third mistake: letting it cool in the fridge. Really though, I only made one mistake... Everything I did wrong stemmed from trying to make the process faster. I have made this mistake in the past, and thought I had learned, but apparently not. Instead of just cooling, the mixture chilled and the gelatin turned into... gelatin. This did not mix well with the yogurt/half-and-half combination. So that went weird. Then I pulled out the freezer bowl and the ice had melted and fused itself to the sides and bottom of the bowl. Had to use hot water to get it out, thus undoing all the "freezing" the bowl had just gone though. Tried about an hour later to go ahead and mix the concoction in half-frozen bowl, but it just turned into a nasty mixture of weird coffee flavored gelatinous bits and yogurt. I threw it in a bowl and stuck it in the back of the freezer. Needless to say, it was not served. It was awful. Pulled it out today and tried a small bowl. Edible, but awful still.

So what did I learn?
Do not...ever...rush. No good comes from it.

3.5 weeks to D-Day.

2011-03-31T17:23:00.000-04:00

I will be 37 weeks this Tuesday. ... !
(I think he will be late though)

I brought the children to the beach this week. We arrived last Sunday and will head home either Saturday night or Sunday morning. For the most part it's been rainy, cold and windy. Not really the best beach weather. A bit of a disappointment, but trying to make the best of it....children's museum, mall trips, coloring, puzzles, books, etc... Tuesday was fairly sunny, though still cold with the "breeze," so at least we got out in the sand one day, which made all the little ones happy.

Elsie and Judah have a kids song album that we listen to the in the car (it's really awful and Justin despises it, but kids love it and that's why I bought it I guess)... but there is one really odd song that I'm just not sure I approve of:

Say, say, oh playmate,
Come out and play with me
And bring your dollies three
Climb up my apple tree

Slide down my rainbow
Into my cellar door
And we'll be jolly friends
Forever more.

What do you think? I think it's weird. There are a lot of weird kids songs though. Ring Around the Rosies. Seriously. On another note, a truly great kids song:

Discoveries::

2011-03-22T15:02:00.000-04:00

Every now and then I empty my purse/bag out (usually when it begins to weigh in over the maximum 50 pound limit I generally allow). Only the necessities are returned, toys go in their proper location, trash is disposed of. I noticed this morning that my bag was abnormally heavy, so it's time to purge. To add to the fun, I've decided to list everything that is found. Really, someone's bag probably says a lot about them.

My Bag. March 22, 2011.

Elsie's end-of-year yellow folder from class.
Lime green planner.
Envelope with class information.
Wallet.
Olive hand cream.
DHC lip cream.
2 PITT artist pens (black and brown).
Several tissues.
Elsie's butterscotch wrapper.
Band-aid wrapper.
Strange plastic bit.
Hair clip (x2).
List of top "beverages" on planet earth from "Beverage"Advocate.
Printout of translated email.
Empty gum package (x2)
Small Rubbermaid container.
Small black Moleskine notebook.
Withdrawal receipt.
Pay stub (x2).
2 Library cards.
Allstate insurance card.
Elsie's dentist appointment card.
Too many receipts to count.
Pink and blue marker.
Pencil.
Ziplock bag with half-eaten grape lollipop.
Pen.
Hand lotion (yes, another).
Pen.
Chapstick.
Pretend baby bottle.
Oh goodnes... old crackers wrapped in a napkin. Yuck.
Ziplock bag full of miscellaneous items (hand sanitizer, lip stuff, etc...).
More receipts.
"Spout" bubblegum from Elsie's ballet (un-chewed. thankfully!).
Doll hairbrush.
Tiny pig eraser (Elsie's).
Cardboard camera and beach ball belonging to "Snoofy" (aka, Snoopy).
Dog toy.
Elsie's grocery list and clip-on earring.
Actual grocery list.
Urban Outfitters discount card (thanks, Steven!).
Floss.
Hair tie (x2).
Half stick of gum.
Dried out flower from Elsie.
Tiny plate belonging to a family of raccoons.
Mr. Potato Head's arm.
Bulletin.
Blank note card and envelope.
Cloth for camera.
Alfred the Asparagus.
Pirate earrings.
Plastic jewelry.
Nana's bracelet.
Various grocery discount cards.
Key to storage unit.
blue golf tee.
56 cents.

And that is all. What does it say about me?...

People come, people go.

2011-03-15T16:02:00.002-04:00

The strangeness of life is astounding at times. Certain aspects of it, at least. Some people live such charmed lives, while others live out routine/schedule with every day exactly the same as the last. The difference between the lives of young couples with children and those without (I really shouldn't think too much about it...)... it's so interesting. The way time is spent. Some things exactly the same, some things completely different.

"Slide your way to slumber "In the third trimester, turning over in bed is a nightmare. The solution? Big satin pajamas and even satin sheets — the slipperiness of satin helps tremendously!" — Carrie" (BabyCenter - Wk34)
That sounds horrible. How in the world would anyone get comfortable in satin pajamas and sheets! AGH! I cringe at the thought, even though turning over in bed is getting quite difficult. It's hard to imagine that I'll actually get bigger (and I definitely will). 6-ish weeks to go!

New music discovered (thanks, Leah!): Mumford & Sons (yes, not new to most, I know... but I've never personally listened to them). Album- Sigh No More. Song- The Cave (though all are really good).

Favorite punctuation for the day: (parentheses)

*** Following portion is from a few days ago that I never posted. It's fairly insignificant. Very self-focused. But so is most of what I write...***

I've decided I need a hobby. Not because I have all this spare time and need it filled with extra activities, oh no. I have very little spare time. But I want a hobby. I have many things I want to do, and would enjoy doing, but no commitment to any of them. Nothing gets started or completed. If anyone has ever asked me what my hobbies are, first I hesitate... then say "hmmm".... then say "I like to read".... which is true. But that is such a generic hobby, not a real hobby. Everyone reads. Well, most people read. Furthermore, I'd like for my children to enjoy doing interesting/crafty/etc. things, and they may not learn to enjoy such things if not exposed.

I have many ideas for hobbies. And it is difficult to nail down just one. Most of the time I just think about all the things I could do, I look for books about different topics that would help me get started, and by then end of it, my time has disappeared. There's photography, painting, knitting, crocheting, sewing, baking, gardening, and so much more. But I need to pick one. Just one. Just to have an official hobby. Not saying I won't do the other things, I will always bake. And I'd still like to have a garden. And maybe, occasionally, I'll start knitting a scarf that will never be finished.

But I'd like to be a seamstress. So there. Official hobby. Goal for year: sew something. Anything.

Painted Love

2011-02-15T16:15:00.001-05:00

Swim until you can't see land.

2011-02-15T16:12:00.002-05:00

Its been a nice day today with my two littlest ones. Justin worked the morning/day shift, so mom took Elsie to class. I don't like not being there, but it is fun to have some time with just Judah and Marlene. We painted, ate lots of grapes and strawberries, and took a [much too long] walk. We walked all the way to the end of Durst from our house on Laurel. I'm not sure why, momentum must have carried me. Pushing that stroller with the two of them is quite a challenge. Honestly, there were several times I considered calling for rescue. On the way back, we stopped at the playground at First Baptist Church to play (and catch my breath). Such beautiful weather-- the babies* loved it! It really was a great walk though. I'd like to do that once a week.

30 weeks pregnant today. Only 10ish to go. I bet it will go fast. Sometimes I do wonder how life will change with four. It will be exciting, to say the least.

"We do not always have the freedom to choose the roles we must play in life, but we can choose HOW we are going to play the roles we have been given." {Jerry Sittser}

Interesting article on CNN: Twinkie Diet
Yuck.

*I should probably stop saying "babies".... They're growing up fast... But really, they'll always be my babies ;)

I've been down this road before.

2011-02-10T15:28:00.000-05:00

New music: Joshua Radin ("You Got Growin Up To Do") and Frightened Rabbit

I should write an official review or something, really in depth, for both artists, but nah...

Speaking of growing up... it's really weird getting old/older. For instance, I caught a glimpse of 1/4th of my face in the rear-view mirror and felt like my face looked the same as it did 10 years ago (well, maybe 5-6)... but then I just uploaded a bunch of pictures from our camera, and saw a picture of myself and Marlene from just a few weeks ago, and I felt 35 at least. Having babies (specifically HAVING the babies) has made me older I think. Also just being a mother in general contributes to the aging process. It's really quite stressful. Not even just busyness-- but emotionally. It's a challenge.

It would be ideal not to ever be pregnant again.... it really doesn't suit me. Four is a good number. Two boys, two girls...

I need to get things accomplished today. Yay for tomorrow! Can't wait to leave for Asheville... Anniversary No. 5!

Anthem

2011-02-07T15:54:00.001-05:00

Up to this point in my life, I'd never read anything written by Ayn Rand. I think I avoided her mainly due to the horror stories told by friends in high school AP English class-- stories of depth and difficulty and ridiculous length. That didn't appeal to me. But over the summer, Justin received Anthem. It sat in various places in our home, taunting me, but never opened. Until last week. I had an hour to myself, so I went to Starbucks with three books to choose from: Jane Eyre, Bridget Jones Diary (don't judge me), and Anthem. Somehow, Anthem seemed to jump from my bag and open itself on my lap... So I read half of it. An then the following day finished it up. And I.....liked it. It was very interesting, long enough-- but not too long. Deep, but easy to read and follow. I would recommend it, if you like futuristic tales. Not futuristic as in aliens and flying cars, but what life would possibly be like if a major catastrophe had wiped out most of the population. It was written around 1937, but you'd never know.

So now I wonder.... am I ready for something more? Atlas Shrugged, perhaps?
"Atlas Shrugged is a novel by Ayn Rand, first published in 1957 in the United States. Rand's fourth and last novel, it was also her longest, and the one she considered to be her magnum opus in the realm of fiction writing." (wikipedia)

Perhaps not. But I would like to start reading more often. And I'm not nearly as frightened of Ayn Rand as I once was.

How and Why To Say No.

2011-01-31T15:46:00.000-05:00

Two in one day! I'm on a roll...

Anyways, just finished reading a very helpful post from Passionate Homemaking blog. Even if you're not a "homemaker," I think the advice given is very practical so I thought I'd share it...

Saying No

Green Tea

2011-01-31T15:41:00.000-05:00

= the perfect amount of caffeine... most of the time. Mmm. Even cold, it usually hits the spot, though I do prefer it warm.

I was so glad for the beautiful day we had yesterday. It was lovely! I wish I had been able to spend more time outside. It was warm and sunny-- made me very excited for spring! This spring, in particular, I think will be a good one. New babies (ONE new baby for me, but several new babies overall for various families) plus all the usual spring happenings (flowers, gardening--if I get to it, warmth, beach trip, sunshine, green grass)... I can't wait. But guess I'll have to :)

Health Benefits of Green Tea
"...Grapes and berries, red wine, and dark chocolate also have potent antioxidants."

I won't argue with that. And hey, I've already consumed four of the five today! (Green tea, grapes, berries, and dark chocolate...) ;)

I'll be true to you, forever or until....

2011-01-24T14:42:00.002-05:00

{I go home}
God, it's great to be alive.

-M.Ward (Daniel Johnston cover)

I've decided to start re-working on my coffee shop idea (though maybe I won't share too much about it or else someone might steal my ideas?... not that I'm really worried about that, but you never really know). One thing I wonder though, is it possible to open your own business and live by only taking out a loan? Meaning no supplemental income or savings? Can one live off of money from a loan? Or is that something you take into consideration when applying for a loan?

Anyways, my discovery for this post has to do with this idea... I saw that a building in Abbeville is for sale and it's soooper nice. Furnished even! I wouldn't mind living in Abbeville. They have some interesting things going on in that area, especially around the square. There's an upstairs too. Take a look if you'd like:
101 Court Square

Other interesting places I've found, that I've actually known about for a while, are on Maxwell Ave. I called once a while back about those buildings, just for general information... but obviously I did nothing with the info I gained, except to store it away in a corner of my mind.

I feel I need someone with expertise and start-up business experience at my disposal. Anyone?

Re-purpose.

2011-01-20T13:57:00.000-05:00

Part of what I like about being crafty (which I'm not, but what I like about the *thought* of being crafty...) is to give old things new life. I like the idea of making bags out of t-shirts, play kitchens out of cardboard boxes, new crayons out of broken crayons, etc... I like the idea of wasting as little as possible. I'm not very good at that, but I still like it and want to be good at it.

Therefore, I'm giving this "blog" a new purpose. It's become old and probably fairly boring/mundane... and not that it will get much more exciting for the readers, but I think I will enjoy writing more if there is some new reason for doing so. The new purpose is to disclose findings and discoveries. I will still probably write about general life occurrences or whatever I feel like writing, but at least once per post I have to include something new that I have found- whatever that may be. An idea, photo, recipe, article, website, invention, whatever.

That being said, my discovery for today is...

A CD full of old pictures. I found it last night and it was full of funny family photos that I had sent to Steven back when he was in the Philippines. I will share my favorite:

(that is baby Elsie, only a few days old, middle of the night, supposed to be sleeping, but instead gazing intently at Uncle Josh and Caleb) :)

2011-01-10T15:35:00.000-05:00

Somehow the sky looks even more dark and treacherous now than it did earlier with snow and freezing rain. Having said that, I would like to go for a walk. Bundled up, of course. If only Justin wasn't sick...... I wish all cars had stayed off the road today. It looked so beautiful this morning when looking out the window, and it still does, but the view has been tainted by the grey sludge that that been created on Laurel. Yuck.

All my children are sleeping, minus Judah. Which is very odd, because usually it is Elsie who doesn't sleep. Judah almost always does, especially when we play a lot during the day. And being outside in the snow this morning I was sure would make him ready for a nap. Maybe I shouldn't have given him those few sour patch kids right before putting him in bed.... how long does it usually take for a sugar crash to occur?

I'd like to start cooking more. It's easy to do (easier to do) if I plan it out well. But when I don't, time gets away from me and I lose energy/momentum quick. Speaking of energy, I could use a delicious hot cup of coffee right about now.

Find a tree and put it in your house.

2010-11-29T10:51:00.000-05:00

I'm feeling quite lack-luster this morning. Trying to improve upon mood by drinking coffee and listening to Sufjan Stevens' holiday album. So far, neither are working. Feeling more like curling up on the couch and closing my eyes.

Really, I have so much to do. I need some motivation.

I've made no progress, if I really think about it. I've been cleaning for days, weeks even, but with kids, what's the use? Especially this "ahead of time" cleaning. There's no sense in it.

As for pregnancy update, I'm 19 weeks. Gaining weight at a rapid pace. Yay.

Mr. Claw'd Meowgi the Rascal has gone to live at my mom's.. He likes living outside now I think. Seems to be happier. Less cooped up. The smell of cat spray still haunts me though. I know it's only my imagination, but either way, it's not pleasant.

Bosil, Hermy, and Henri (hermit crabs) seem to be doing well in their "habitat." Hermy and Henri have changed shells. Bosil has disappeared under the sand. Hope he's ok.

Honestly, I'm just killing time right now. Trying to distract myself from the list of things I need to do. But I think it's time to stop wasting precious time and "face the music" or whatever.

This....

2010-10-21T14:55:00.002-04:00

is what I'm doing at this very moment:
listening to Jewel (Pieces of You) and menu-planning.
Oh, there is also a cup of coffee involved. And three sleeping children.
Maybe four, but you never really know what this "fourth" one's sleep/wake status is these days.

It smells like Christmas in our house- thank you apple butter cooking away in the crockpot!

This is what I'm trying to do, at all moments:
- Teach children though own actions (it is way harder than it sounds)
- Be content in current situation (I think I need a bigger house, but I don't)
- Move, think, act slowly (keeps chaos at bay)

"We must be willing to get rid of the life we've planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us."
{Joseph Campbell}

ps.

2010-10-05T15:45:00.001-04:00

Also, one day soon I'd like to watch Fiddler on the Roof.
Who's with me?
:)

What I give to you is just what I'm going through.

2010-10-05T15:42:00.000-04:00

So much to do today, maybe I won't even start. Yeah. That's a good idea.
"The best thing about waiting until the last minute to do something is that it only takes a minute to do" :)

Also, "Don't put off until tomorrow what you could do today."

Which piece of advice will I choose to follow today? We'll just have to see. For now, I choose to take a break for a few minutes with this "online journal" and an apple.

Damien Rice is so good. I don't think I'll ever get tired of him.

The passage of life/time is such a ridiculously strange thing. It's hard for me to even think about. But I guess that's just what it is.... life. It couldn't be any other way or else it wouldn't be what it is. Am I making sense? Doubt it. But if I'm honest with myself, who am I even talking to. I understand what I'm saying, and maybe that's all that matters. Seeing people age, change, marry, have children, grow up, it's amazing. Scary? A little. Unsettling? At time. Weird... always.

"So come on courage, teach me to be shy."
I think that one thing today will be perfect for is good music. Like music from another life. Snow Patrol, The Format, David Gray.

Just saw an old email to/from best friend Abby, and it kind of made me miss writing long emails and letters to friends far away. Not that I'd rather for Abby to be far away (please don't ever move away-- though I know you will one day with future husband Troy. Troy, it's up to you to keep Abby near me. I'm holding you responsible... just so you know).

I'm going to fold clothes and listen to my music :)

Status:

2010-08-20T16:11:00.002-04:00

Unaccomplished.
In all areas of life, it seems.

over.whelmed.

2010-08-19T15:53:00.000-04:00

Day 4: No progress. Obtained some boxes for packing stuff away, so that's something. But I don't think I'd call it progress. Yesterday was progress-less as well. Is my motivation waning? I hope not. I do still want to get rid of almost everything in my house... but I now feel as though it's a much bigger project than I could have ever imagined. I need to focus. One room at a time. One space in one room at a time. Then proceed to another. Eventually, all spaces will be done in room one. Then on to room two. Move through each space and each room, however long it takes, and eventually, all rooms will be done and my project will be complete.

There. That was encouraging. I have thirty minutes to work before going to pick up Justin. Let's see how much damage I can do.

Day 1, 2, 3...

2010-08-18T12:54:00.000-04:00

{of three-week project}

First day, got storage unit and moved extra dining table and chairs, fisher-price art desk, tv, infant changing pad. Not a lot of progress, but at least that's something.

Second day, cleaned out bathroom and started in bedroom. 2/3 bathroom shelves emptied out. That is now the goal for the entire house-- 2/3-3/4 goes. Elsie and Judah's room is almost done. Huge box of toys almost ready to be put in storage unit. All/most storage unit items will be sold (minus winter clothes that we may store in there.

Third day (today), so far there has been no progress. I've begun looking through some of Marlene's toys, but really want to finish my bedroom so I can work in a more organized, progressive fashion. For instance. My bathroom is furthest room. Then bedroom. Then living room. Then Elsie and Jude's. Kitchen. Dining. Middle. Middle bath. Marlene's. Den. I haven't gone in exactly that order, since I started the children's room last week, but that's the basic plan. My goal for today: Finish bedroom and children's room. Maybe even start in living room.

{I HATE FLIES}

Sweet tooth.

The Good Days.

2010-08-14T14:04:00.000-04:00

These are the days that I know I'll look back on in ten or fifteen years and think, "Man, those were the best years of life." And I guess it's good that I'm realizing it now. Maybe someone can remind me of this whenever I get overwhelmed with having three children, too much clutter, too many projects, not enough time, etc... ;)

That being said... there are times when I simply don't know what I'm doing. I definitely feel ill-equipped in my mothering/disciplinarian/referee duties. I had the very best example of a mother growing up (my own), but that doesn't mean I was taking notes on how she handled any and every difficult situation. Right now, my children are all playing well together in the same right, sharing and being nice. That could change at any moment. I do always cherish these times.

My goal for the next three weeks: Simplify. Three weeks. Every room. EVERY room. And, as long as there isn't a wedding that I didn't know about, I will have a significant yard sell on September 4th. I'm hoping this will change our life/home into something more peaceful and clutter-free. I'm excited.

I have the best family.

2010-08-09T15:19:00.000-04:00

Could I possibly make such a radical, drastic change in my life-- as to give away all "possessions" and live the simple life w/ only necessities? What would the perfect, most content and satisfied life look like to me?

What could I do without?

Computers. They waste time. But are they essential? I guess so.

Television? I don't like cable, neither does Justin. So we don't have it. How to simplify? Put all owned movies into cd case instead of individual cases.

Toys. We don't need any. But they love some of them. Why is it so hard to get rid of toys?? Even old toys, or broken toys.

I've been reading some on the blog Passionate Homemaking... I think it's starting to depress me though. I feel as if there's so many things I'm supposed to be doing, but how in the world am I supposed to have time to do any of them??

I don't feel very bright at the moment.

45

2010-07-02T15:39:00.002-04:00

So, I've been given the task of photographing and listing on Ebay the old 45 records that my uncle inherited from my Grandfather. As I have been going through each item, one by one, I realized that I have some serious moral qualms with this. These records are priceless! Simply because of where they came from and what they consist of. Tony Bennett, Louis Armstrong, Pat Boone, Ray Charles, Nat King Cole, Bing Crosby, Sammy Davis Jr, Everly Brothers, Ella Fitzgerald-- to name a FEW. I asked Justin if he thought we could scrounge up $1000 and buy them ourselves. He said no. But wouldn't that be perfect... I could buy these records, that used to belong to my Grandfather, who collected them from Jukeboxes where he worked... and THEN, buy a jukebox... and THEN, put this jukebox with all these records in my dream-future coffeehouse-bookstore-bakery! Instant customer attraction.

Donations will be accepted ;)

...

2010-06-22T15:15:00.000-04:00

There are so many things that I don't understand...
One of them being bathing suits that cost over $150.
Someone out there in the land of "swim wear design" is making a fortune.

In a sense...

2010-06-18T15:43:00.000-04:00

...innocence.

I need to start living a healthier life. Parts of my life have been, more so, "in a sense," lately (horrible sentence construction/word usage... sorry). Such as, I've been cooking meals for supper during the week (usually just leftovers on the weekends), and eating out less. So that is good. BUT we've also had lots of chips and ice cream just laying around, because of cookouts and events. So that is not good. I tend to eat them during nap time. Also, on the "not healthy" side, we (myself, Justin, Seth, and whoever else happens to be around), tend to have that dreaded fourth meal once the kids are all in bed and we start to crave something tasty yet effortless. You might argue that getting in the car and driving to Sonic is more work than making a sandwich. And you might be right. But it doesn't matter. We still choose Sonic. Or Taco Bell. Or RODEO BURGERS (Burger King?). Ok, I'm starting to feel disgusting. That's the point though- it's not healthy. And I need to start choosing health over fat, grease, salt and sugar. And exercise. I need to do that.

Something I love: Coffee. I have finally realized why Kristian likes it so much. And I never thought I'd reach this point in my life, where I would actually enjoy black coffee. And where I can tell the difference between a good and bad cup. To me, they all used to be bad cups of coffee. I say I understand why Kristian drinks it, but that may not be true. I don't really know what his motives are. I assume he enjoys the taste, and it keeps him going through the day. That is why I like it. The "keeps me going" factor trumps all others though. Seriously. My coffee days are much better than my sans-coffee days. I tend to handle things better, over all.

Overalls are funny. I should get a pair. Just to have on hand.

Toy Story 3 at the drive-in tonight! Can't wait to see the excitement.

You never said it would be easy.

2010-06-08T12:05:00.002-04:00

You only said I'd never go alone.

A Delicious Combination

2010-05-17T15:15:00.009-04:00

I think I'm going to start posting recipes every now and then, either something I discover or "create"... but I will only post if the outcome is pleasant or at least interesting.

For the first one, I'll start simply. Salad. We'll call it......

"ExtaSpicy" Arugula Salad*

Spinach
Romaine
Arugula (thanks, Leah!)
Strawberry circles
Chopped avocado
Small radish, chopped into thin circles
Choice of dressing (vinaigrette is tasty)

The arugula has a very tangy/savory taste to it. The radish is quite spicy. And the strawberries are deliciously sweet. Everything works well together, I think. The avocado lends a slightly odd texture though and made me want to gag at times, but the taste was good. So maybe less avocado? It's the maker's choice. If you try this, let me know what you think (good/bad). This was my first time tasting arugula... Yum!

*Name is dedicated to all of my Balderdash friends. You know who you are.

Spear-a-mint!

2010-05-12T16:25:00.000-04:00

...I wonder where the "ah" comes from in pronunciation... (spearmint: pronounced [by me] spear-ah-mint). The more I repeat this word in my head, the more I wonder if I'm even getting close to the actual word. Is there even such a thing a spearmint? It doesn't sound right either way. Anyways, I have two spearmint sproutlings! Hoorah!

Also, ate some lettuce from the garden Monday night (with Totino's pizza-- haha-- not my proudest meal, but it balance out..?) with strawberries and cranberry walnut vinaigrette (now that's a strangely spelled word), and it was delicious! Not that I had anything to do with how good it tasted... I didn't make the lettuce, and the strawberries and dressing were store bought... but the combination was perfect. Haha.

I'm now anxiously awaiting Justin's arrival (Big A Little a, what begins with A? Aunt Annie's Alligator- AaA... um. sorry.) with a scrumptious Mill House creation! He should be here by 5pm, so I have 40... no, 39 minutes to wait. I'm not sure I'll make it.

Lavender

2010-05-06T16:53:00.000-04:00

I actually accomplished some of what I wrote on my list on Tuesday...
Ok, I take that back, I did one thing from my list: I went to the Y and ran (Thank you, Justin, for providing the opportunity). And today I went to the grocery store! It went surprisingly well, considering I was by myself with all three, and despite the busted lip, blood, screams, and Marlene falling from her car seat. Really, it sounds much worse than it actually was...right?... at least I was able to stay calm through it all. And everyone is alive.

One tiny lavender seedling has sprouted! It made me so happy when I saw it today. And some of the basil is growing... but nothing else. Something is better than nothing. Keeping a positive outlook.

Today has been very good. Much better than yesterday. I'm excited about the possibilities that the rest of the day holds-- Mill House tonight? The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassas? Fun.

Judah is "still hungry," so......

[come what] May.

2010-05-04T16:28:00.001-04:00

Today turned out quite beautiful. I thought it would be cloudy, but the sun is coming out so nicely! I love the summer... I don't know what I will do when winter comes again.

All of the herbs I planted may be ruined :( I brought them inside today, because most of the seeds aren't coming up. I realized that it has probably been too hot outside for them, even though they're in a sort of "greenhouse" structure. I hope they live.

Things I need to do today, but probably won't:
- Go to the grocery store
- Prepare food to freeze for Marlene
- Find new and interesting recipes for weekly menu
- Go to the Y to run/swim
- Clean/organize Marlene's room
- Clean/organize cabinets
... the list goes on, but it's starting to get depressing so I will stop typing it all out.
[Listen to Stop/Start by The Pale Pacific]

Mmm.

2010-04-27T12:39:00.000-04:00

How I love to watch those tiny particles of grilled cheese/apple/whatever-else float into my water as my sweet child (Judah) takes a drink from my glass.

We harvested our spinach this morning (Spinach salad for supper? Yes, I do think so). Afterwards, we planted various herbs (lavender, basil, oregano, spearmint, sage, etc...). It's a little late I guess, but hopefully something will grow. The rest of the garden seems to be doing well (except the banana peppers, something/someone/Judah broke it in half), but nothing edible has appeared yet. I'm especially interested to see how the corn does.

The beach last week was fun, but it was really hard being away from Justin for so long. I don't want to do that again for a while. All the babies had a great time, and they were really good-- for the most part. Marlene LOVED the sand. She was adorable in her bathing suit (see video below).

cynical, irritable, judgmental

2010-04-16T16:00:00.001-04:00

: three words that describe me today.

oh, and exhausted.

The Beauty of Ice Cream Sandwiches

2010-04-14T15:38:00.000-04:00

After lunch, I usually find myself with a serious sweet tooth. Sonic tends to be the place I turn to when such a feeling arises; which leads to consuming far more calories than I would ever need in one sitting. Thanks to Troy, this problem has been resolved in a convenient 150-calorie package: ICE CREAM SANDWICHES! Only problem being, it's hard to stop with one. But so far, I've had restraint. Between my children, husband and self, the box is going quickly... We'll buy you more next time you come home, Troy. Over the years, I think I forget at times how delicious they are.

Garden is taking shape. I hope it continues to grow. Spinach might even be about ready to harvest!

Time to get Justin from work. Everyone visit The Mill House! They serve the best pizza ever.

Tiny orange break.

2010-04-13T11:34:00.000-04:00

Tiny-orange break, orrrr tiny orange-break? It's your call.

I'm sitting for a few moments; and while I sit, I'll write.
Coffee makes all the difference in my day. If I shower and have coffee in the morning, I handle most things pretty well. If I don't... phew... it can be pretty rough. Not that this is always true, but nine out of ten times I'd say.

TODAY I'm starting a "workout" routine. Haha. Sounds so funny. But really, I think it would also help my day-to-day mentality. Monday-Wednesday-Friday I have a home-workout thing, Tuesday-Thursday hoping to go to the Y for a good run (or similar cardio activity), and Sunday--Yoga at 4pm. This may be way too ambitious, but I'm going to try!

On another note, I bought some new art supplies. I've been saving up since Christmas, since all of my materials are basically from AP art class in high school (meaning, everything is getting old and crusty). I wasn't able to get much (it's so expensive), but I got some paints and paper that were on sale, masking fluid for a special project, a nice pencil and good eraser, and two paint brushes for Elsie and Judah and paints for them. It was fun :) The art supplies store in Asheville is really nice.

My goal is to write four times this month (April-4th month), and continue the pattern for the rest of this year. We'll see.

It's a BEAUTIFUL day.

Life goes easy on me...

2010-03-16T15:09:00.001-04:00

{most of the time}

It's nap time in our household. Judah sleeps in his and Elsie's room, Marlene in her room, and Elsie rests on the couch in the den/less-formal-living-room (she usually does not sleep). Elsie has gotten into the bad habit of "needing" to use the bathroom at least 15 times during this hour or so. She has also gotten in the bad habit of being scared of going through the house by herself. On her second trip to the bathroom today, she got to the kitchen, turned around, and said "Mom, are you sure angels are guarding me?" Hehe :) Of course I said yes.

Listening to The Cranberries right now... more specifically, "Dreams." I will always love this song. So nostalgic. (YUM-- just dipped a frozen multigrain cranberry-orange scone into reheated coffee... delicious! Thanks, Leah ;)) Why is there such a feeling as nostalgia? It's so odd. Life is so odd. I've been thinking about that a lot lately. Where life takes you, the changes, the twists and turns. Things happen that would never be expected. There's times in my life, several times actually, that I can think back on and wonder "Was that really me?" It's like it was literally a different life. Is there a reason behind everything? A purpose? I believe there's a "big-picture" purpose behind most things, but the little changes here and there-- I feel like they just happen. No rhyme or reason. [btw, eight o'clock is good, but I need more klatch!]

Things to remember:
Be quick to listen,
Slow to speak,
Slow to become angry.

Today is good.

I'm heading nowhere.

2010-03-05T11:58:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I feel as if my words are hitting a brick wall, in regards to my children.

thought for the day.

2010-02-10T14:59:00.000-05:00

I spent so much of my life taking pictures (pre-adulthood), I wonder how/if I ever really connected with anyone on a deeper level.

...if i could be who you wanted, all the time

2010-02-04T16:28:00.001-05:00

I may be going into a very serious Radiohead phase (yes, I do realize I'm always years behind everyone else). I've always liked them and enjoyed their music, but I believe it is turning into something more. Typically, I turn to Pandora when I have a general unspecific taste for a certain type of music, and lately that's how I've been feeling. But today I am exploring The Hype Machine, which is what Justin uses a lot. I searched "Radiohead" and was met by blog postings that contain Radiohead material-- both by Radiohead and other artists performing their covers. I like it.

And on another note, this is the ad that is showing up on The Hype Machine right now:

Such funny/interesting boots. I'm sure there's plenty of people who could pull off such a look... but I really don't think I'm one of them.

As for my resolutions that I made at the beginning of last month, some have had moderate success, while others complete failure. Tea time doesn't happen often, but only every now and then. When it does happen, I enjoy it immensely... especially when combined with "dark chocolate time" :) I have been cooking more and "shopping from the edges" (buying more fresh ingredients), so I feel pretty good about that. I was talking with Brooke, my... cousin-in-law(?), about gardening and having a farm. It sounded so wonderful, something we would both like to do. Anyone want to go in together on a plot of land and turn it into a community farm?

Lately, I haven't been creating much, which is disappointing... I really enjoy it-- whether it's baking, or drawing or playing with play dough with the little ones. We, meaning myself, Elsie, and Judah, do tell stories quite often... which does fall into the "creating" category, I guess. It's especially fun when they participate and add to the story, telling me who shows up next or what is going to happen. Judah's favorite characters are Woody, Buzz, Jessie, Elmo, and (of course) himself. Elsie usually just comes up with the next scene... She really likes it when any of the characters are walking down the street, or when they get ice cream, or when they have a crown that falls off their head and breaks (so then they have to go buy a new one). Elsie is actually very particular when it comes to stories. I think she gets spooked easily. She likes the way Grandma tells the story of David and Goliath, but not the way I tell it (Mom, I don't want to hear the story about Goliath , ok?). She also did not like the story about Goldilocks and the Three Bears, even though I tried to tell it very light-hearted and silly. Her favorite stories are about Elsie and Judah and the various characters they encounter on whatever adventure they are having at the time.

I caught myself making a lot of spelling and grammar mistakes in this post, so I feel as though there are several that I did not catch. Please excuse any that you find.

Y.U.C.K.

2010-02-01T14:30:00.002-05:00

{that's how i'm feeling right now}

Two for two!

2010-01-11T14:10:00.002-05:00

I feel accomplished.
Not only have I managed to publish two posts in just two days, but I also went to the grocery store *alone* with ALL three of my children. Yes, I did have to push the hideous "bus cart," and we lost both of Judah's boots in the process (one was found by a kind man walking behind us, the other we had to hunt for). However, it was a success, overall. I spent an hour and a half, got everything I needed, had no serious disasters, and everyone is alive! I probably won't try to do it again any time soon, but at least I know I can.

Some things that I love:

A well stocked kitchen (with lots of fresh foods!)
Blueberries
Whole wheat -- when used correctly
My sweet family
Good friends
Old clothes
"Spare" time
Spring... [coming soon!]

Now I'm going to use my spare time to clean the kitchen and prepare for supper :)

Make a funny face, mom

2010-01-10T16:15:00.000-05:00

Elsie is much better than me at the funny-face game.

tea time resolution

2010-01-02T14:41:00.002-05:00

A friend mentioned wanting to have tea every day as part of her new years resolution, and I've decided that I want to do that as well. Babies nap time is going to become my tea time :) Yay! Today I am having Moroccan Mint Green Tea from Intelligentsia. It is one of the best teas I've ever had (and i really haven't had that many...).

Other "resolutions" or just little things I'd like to start doing more of:

Shopping from the edges of the grocery store (natural and fresh). I've been hearing this a lot lately, from various sources, and I like it.
Make time each day for creativity. "The Creative Family" by Amanda Blake Soule has inspired me, and I'm only just now in the third chapter.
COok.
Keep bedroom clean.
Read.
SLOW DOWN.
Forget past mistakes, especially in others.

I will add to the list as I think of things. I remember each year in middle and high school making a list of my resolutions. It would be interesting to see those now. Haha. Just found one from 2001 (as in, Dec. 31):

1. By Jan. 1, 2003 will weigh 100lbs.
2. Will do something active every day missing only 2 a week (unless special occasion).
3. Will worry less about what others think of me and focus more on how I feel about myself.
4. Will build deeper friendships.
5. Will be more friendly... taking to one person I don't know every week [hahahahahaha.]
etc.... I went back in and crossed off (or checked off) things I did or didn't do. Needless to say, there weren't many checks... And several of the items are still applicable today.

However, I don't "disbelieve" in new years resolutions by any means. I think its a good way to get back on track and motivate yourself. Even if it doesn't last very long. At least you are thinking through your goals and priorities and putting them into some sort of objective form.

Jan 2004
1. Set aside a few hours a week for guitar and piano.
2. Reach 104 lbs -- currently 115.

Journals are entertaining.

So I failed...

2009-12-13T08:55:00.000-05:00

But it's ok. I have a lot going on. But I'll continue with the challenge and do as many as I can...

December 3 Article. What's an article that you read that blew you away?

Wow. I actually have an answer for this. "Is There Hope for the American Marriage?" in Time. It was... thought-provoking (I think that's the word I'm looking for...). "An increasingly fragile construct depending less and less on notions of sacrifice and obligation than on the ephemera of romance and happiness as defined by and for its adult principals. . ." The article really depicts the state of marriage in this country.

December 4 Book. What book - fiction or non - touched you?

I have to agree with Abby. The Stranger is the book that stood out to me most, with Naive Super coming in at close second. I had to read the Stranger for my online World Literature class, and I connected with it more than the other stories I had to read, for the most part. It was intriguing. Here is part of my discussion post on Meursault: (caution-- contains spoiler if you haven't read it) "Meursault appears to possess a sense of rational indifference. He feels things physically but not emotionally. He feels the sexual desire for a woman, but he doesn’t feel love for her. He remembers the wise words of his mother, but he does not miss her. It isn’t until the end, during his encounter with the priest, that he has any sort of emotional outburst. After his burst of anger, he feels refreshed and renewed-- like he is ready to begin his life. The reason Meursault acts the way he does is because he lets his physical feelings outweigh reason or consequence at times. When he killed the Arab man, he was overwhelmed with the heat of the sun, the air, the ocean and everything around him. That physical heat seemed to completely overcome him, and he acted without even thinking."

On another note, this coming week is the last of my undergraduate college career. It's really hard to think about, because I have so much to do between now and graduation on the 19th. In fact, I had my "final exam nightmare" last night, which is always my indication that exam week has finally arrived.

I'm nervous.

December 2

2009-12-08T20:49:00.000-05:00

Restaurant Moment.
Share the best restaurant experience you had this year. Who was there? What made it amazing? What taste stands out in your mind?

This is silly, but the best restaurant moment I think I've had this year was going to Fusion for the first time with Abby, Amy, and Mandy (I feel as if someone else was there... I will feel bad if I left someone out). It was amazing because of the food I got. So delicious! The massaman curry with avocado and cashews. MMM. I could eat some right now.

That's all I have for now. I feel as though I've been wasting precious time.

joining in.

2009-12-08T20:37:00.000-05:00

So I've decided to join Amy in her blogging adventure -- The Best of 2009 Blog Challenge by Gwen Bell. I think it will be interesting and prompt me to write more. I have decided to do two a day and be caught up with the challenge by the 16th. We'll see. And as I start thinking about this first question, I realize that I have a terrible memory. Maybe this challenge will help with that as well.

December 1: Trip. What was your best trip in 2009?

I have narrowed it down to two-- California with Abigail OR October beach trip with dad and my little family. It's a hard decision. Both were short, and relatively uneventful, but very enjoyable. California was special for many reasons. I had never been, a good friend from high school was getting married, it was the first time I'd left Justin and the babies like that, and I got to go with my dearest friend. I also conquered my new-found fear of flying. Even the layover was enjoyable, but I have always liked airports. One of the best moments, for whatever reason, was during a long layover when Abby and I walked all the way over to one deserted end of the building. We just sat there and did homework and such, but it was fun. I think I enjoyed being childless for just a short time. It will probably be a long time before I am able to make such a trip again.

The October beach trip was also enjoyable, for different reasons. All of my children were with me/us, so it wasn't as relaxing; and the weather was bad, so we didn't get out much. It was just a simple trip, a nice time to get away from daily life. Justin and dad fished a lot, and the babies and I spent time coloring and playing with new toys that "pop pop" bought them. We did venture out to the sand on several occasions. Elsie and Judah played just as they would have if it had been 80 degrees and sunshiny.

Think I'll post pictures of each trip. I've decided it's a tie.

2.25 and Pine Straw

2009-11-14T11:30:00.002-05:00

I love fall. I even have warm fuzzy feelings toward the layer of pine straw in our front yard.
(toward or towards??)

peace like a river.

2009-11-12T20:58:00.003-05:00

All three of my children have *finally* stopped making noise. AT LAST! (though I'm sure I've just jinxed it by saying that...) I've finished my "Moroccan Mint" green tea and ate the last bite of my yogurt/granola/blueberry snack. It was all quite tasty. Now I must decide whether I should be productive (the possibilities of productive activities are endless) or just sit here and waste time until Justin gets home. The "wasting time" side is winning. But I deserve a little time-wasting, right? "I DESERVE"-- that is one of my least favorite things for anyone to say. Who really *deserves* anything? Maybe some people... but certainly not me.

I know what I should do (clean room? fold clothes? wash dishes? no no...)! I will read. My world lit class has been put on the back-burner for a while now, with all other classes (accounting, mainly) taking priority. I'm in the middle of reading "Things Fall Apart" by Chinua Achebe (thanks, abby!) and really need to finish it.

*sniff*

I hope I'm not getting sick...

ten days late...

2009-10-17T21:03:00.002-04:00

I just watched the wedding special of the Office. And I'm sure this may be a controversial statement, but it was probably the best episode of all time.

... That's all I have to say :)

leaky ceilings, fall vacation, and mango-pomegranate popsicles

2009-10-15T14:38:00.002-04:00

[....Guess which one I like the least?]

We're at the beach. Justin, me (to use correct grammer, would you say I or myself or me?), Elsie, Judah, Marlene and dad. However, it's really just me and the babies. I don't know how much we'll see of Justin and dad. This is their "fishing trip." :)

The fall weather makes me nostalgic, in the very best way. I'm not a big fan of cold cold (or hot hot) weather, but I love the coolness of fall and spring. Fall is especially great-- I love the leaves and I think the very best photographs come during this season. *Sigh*

Oh my. I just succumbed to twitter. Why oh why. All my usual usernames were taken. I made up a stupid one. Please don't ask. I feel defeated. Maybe I should start studying for the GMAT, I bet that would help me feel less stupid. :| (note sarcastic tone)

Speaking of the GMAT-- I'm taking it on November 6. GAH!

Also, I have applied at UGA for their Masters of Accountancy program. Hm. We'll see what happens.

late bloomer...

2009-09-13T17:18:00.002-04:00

is it too late to fall in love with Sigur Ros?

... I hope not.
Today is the first time I've really listened to him (is it him or them? I always get it wrong). My desire to listen actually came from a cd that Leah gave me-- Peter Broderick. It was very nice music to listen to while doing homework; and when it was over, I realized that I needed something equally as nice to continue my homework. I immediately thought of Sigur Ros. I made the right decision.

...

2009-08-31T13:20:00.001-04:00

school starts tomorrow.

SUMMER isn't over. yet.

2009-08-27T14:01:00.002-04:00

Today has been ok. I started getting a little bit stressed out this morning because I had so much to do, but Justin was very helpful and encouraging. He took Elsie and Judah out to see the horses and Marlene is here sleeping, so I've been able to lay on the couch and do nothing (at least for a few minutes). It has been nice, but soon I need to get up and clean. The house is a complete disaster, which isn't unusual-- but it is very annoying.

I'd like to do something fun before school starts. It's unfortunate that 80% of fun involves some sort of monetary cost (gas, food, etc...), but there has to be something super fun and completely free that we can do in the next 5 or so days. I'm thinking that school starts on the 2nd of September but I'm not completely sure. Any ideas for free family fuN?

Visit GOOP. Will Gwyneth Paltrow be the next Martha Stewart?

i could sleep

2009-08-19T15:17:00.003-04:00

There is something about Band of Horses that puts Marley right to sleep. When she's fussy, she stops crying immediately when I put them on. It's amazing really. All my children are asleep right now. YAY! and I'm wasting time on this silly piece of technology.

Now, something about Twitter... I've always been somewhat against it. I probably would have used it every hour of every day a few years ago, but I'm not sure what I would do with it now. My life is definitely not exciting enough to share with everyone (I mean, it's exciting in a way... but not in a way that everyone needs to know). That said, I do enjoy reading other people's "twitters" (?) from time to time. For instance, I don't remember exactly how, but I found Ben Folds twitter page, and found that he follows only 8 people. And one of those 8 happen to be Bob Saget. For some reason I found that really interesting.

Last thing. My whole "get attitude right first thing in the morning" thing is not really working. Will I need to take Paxil again? I hope not. Since my six-week postpartum period is over, (yes, Marley is six weeks old tomorrow!! AGH! Growing so quickly!) I think I will first try to start a steady exercise routine. Hopefully that will help me gain some perspective and stress-relief.

Now I'm going to find something more productive to do.

several things...

2009-08-16T16:16:00.002-04:00

Today has been ok. For many days, I have not felt ok. I haven't been much fun to be around; I've felt overwhelmed, uncomfortable, OVERWHELMED, un-motherly, incapable, depressed, uneasy... etc... pick any bad feeling and I've probably been having it over the last few days. This morning I felt somewhat convicted about my attitude-- I'm going to try to put my mind in the right place every morning, starting today. At least I'm going to try. Motherhood is obviously what I've been called to do, and even if I didn't imagine myself doing it this early/suddenly with millions of (ok, 3) babies, I need to do it with all of my heart and without complaining.

I also have a very important mission that I need to embark upon as soon as possible. I want to start painting again. My goal is....*thinking*.... to have a single painting completed by Christmas. That's possible, right? I had a dream the other night that I was painting some picture and singing a bright eyes song (though it was very clear what it was when I woke up, I can't remember it now). It was the best dream I've had in some time, very calm and relaxing. That is what inspired me to start painting again actually, or at least gave me the desire to do so.

I'm also thinking about grad school again. At first I wasn't going to try to go for a while... but Justin and I were discussing it yesterday and decided that maybe I should try to get it done, since it would only be another year (if I went to UGA, USC or Clemson). We'll see.

i'll be true to you, forever or until....

2009-07-29T16:38:00.002-04:00

... I go home.

It's bath time. I'm sitting here watching Elsie and Judah play with shampoo bubbles. Overall, today has been more on the overwhelming side. there have been several moments throughout the day when I've thought "how in the world am I going to manage??" I'm sure I will, others have done it before me... I'm just not sure how much patience and grace I'll display in the process.

[Judah's naked little body just plopped, belly-first, out of the tub... then immediately after, Elsie rubbed non-baby-friendly soap all over her face, thus in her eyes... with such disasters, my post is over.]

no one is ever gonna love you more than i do

2009-07-17T11:30:00.004-04:00

{band of horses}

The newest tiny addition to our family arrived at 5.16am on July 9. She was one week "overdue," but certainly worth the wait. Labor (that I know of) only lasted 3 hours. Hurrah! I'm glad it's over and I'm glad she's here :) I've had a lot of help with Elsie and Judah (though I feel bad because I haven't had much time with them)... but I'm trying to savor the time I have now with Marlene, because after I've recovered I won't have so much time with just her. We both might be getting a little spoiled since I get to just sit around hold her non-stop... but I love it.

We're leaving for the beach Sunday. Yay! Very exciting. Haven't been to the beach all summer.

Hmm. I feel nostalgic.

hmph.

2009-07-04T14:00:00.002-04:00

No baby yet. Three days past due. But really, if you think about it, due dates mean absolutely nothing. It's really a due month. There's a window of two weeks before and two weeks after in which the baby could come and still be considered "full term." Due dates are good for nothing other than creating a sense of anxiety and restlessness.

Either way... I'm uncomfortable, and I'm ready to get this over with. Gahhh. But I am scared too. But more ready than scared... I think.

I watched a show last night-- "16 and Pregnant" was the name of it. I think maybe it's an MTV show or something. It was interesting and sad, at the same time. The girl that was on the one I watched had really no support from her family, in terms of giving birth and such. The mother didn't even want to be in the room with her (though in the end she was). The mother criticized her for asking questions to the doctor about childbirth ("don't ask such vulgar questions!"). And then right before she had the baby she told the nurse that she didn't want to breastfeed at all, just because she was worried about what would happen to her "body"... and her mother supported the notion! Even after the nurse suggested trying it just for a few days, for the babies sake. Anyways, not that breastfeeding is for everyone... but it just seemed like this girl only knew the negative side of it.

Well, Happy Fourth of JULY! Enjoy the festivities :)

calm down, please

2009-06-16T22:20:00.003-04:00

... I really need to. This whole "labor anxiety" thing has got to stop, and soon. I've done it twice before. You'd think it would get easier, at least a little tiny bit. But no. I've got progressively more anxious with each one. Last night, I woke up twice with a gasp of panic for absolutely no reason at all, besides having gone to sleep thinking about the impending moment that it sure to come. Then today in commercial law, the entire class breaks out into a 20-minute-long (at least!) discussion about CHILDBIRTH! I almost had to leave. Everyone is so astounded that I have my babies at home, "all natural"... Now I'm starting to wonder why I do it. Why don't I just go in for the epidural? The other day I watched an episode of some discovery channel or TLC birth show and the lady on it got an epidural. I couldn't believe it! She didn't even stress or strain. If my memory serves me correctly, I think she may have even had a smile on her face as she pushed out her 7-8lb child! She was a cool as a cucumber*. ... deep breath. I'll be ok.

On a happier note, or more happy... happier... hm... either way, summer school is almost done! HURRAH! Only 3 more actual "in class" days! It will be nice to be done. I think I might actually enjoy summer school slightly more than fall/spring semesters, simply because it goes by so quickly and it really hasn't been too stressful.

I'm hoping Justin will be home soon... bed is calling my name.

*I'm not sure why, but I really wanted to use that expression to describe the lady on the program. It seemed to fit her perfectly. Plus, it's just a great expression.

But now I'm under the ground in New York City

2009-06-05T22:29:00.002-04:00

Well, I've gotten a few tasks accomplished...

Justin helped me get all of the freecycle stuff taken off last Saturday and Sunday. Then today we went to IKEA to get a few things. The bunk bed was one of the items we got... but it is not exactly as small as I would have liked. Lyndsi and I put it together tonight, so Elsie didn't get into bed until shortly after 10pm. But she likes it a lot and it has a canopy :) We'll just have to do some rearranging in her room.

OH and the best thing-- Justin put up the shelves in Elsie and Judah's closet! They look great, and are so so perfect.

I haven't painted yet, and I'm still in the process of cleaning/organizing. Our bedroom is next on the list. I think we may move the big entertainment center into the living room. If we can make it fit. I feel very anxious to get everything done very soon. I don't know why.

Tomorrow will be a long day-- lots to do. Half of the bradford pear tree in our front yard fell over and is blocking the driveway, so we have to do something about that. Then there are a million other little things to finish up. But I don't feel overwhelmed... yet...

I am suddenly very tired though.

i hear in my mind, all of these voices

2009-05-28T13:50:00.003-04:00

I want to get all my ducks in a row. I don't really know what that means, but I think it basically means that I want to get everything in it's place-- get everything done that I need to do-- get everything situated. Some might say I'm "nesting"... but I've never really cared for that terminology. Here are some of the things I want to do in the very, very near future (I'd do it all today if I could):

1. Paint the "nursery" and perhaps Elsie and Judah's room.
2. Go to Ikea for various items-- particularly the little bunk bed.
3. Put up the shelves in Elsie and Judah's closet.
4. Take all freecycle items to the storage unit.
5. Organize entire house.

And, as a side note, I'd like to get comfortable. My hips hurt.
All of my "to do" items are fairly difficult to accomplish while 8 months pregnant and with two small children. But I'm hoping for the best :) If anyone is aching to paint a room, let me know~

My herbs are growing. So exciting! I have basil, oregano, and parsley in tiny pots in my kitchen window. Now I just don't know what to do with them. I hate the idea of planting them outside only to have them nibbled on by tiny insects, but they're outgrowing their current containers.

I don't have much else to say. I'm going to look at paint samples.

ART.

2009-05-20T14:48:00.001-04:00

There's something about this that I just love. It gives me a good feeling about life. It makes me want to create something.

but i'm warning you, we're growing up.

2009-04-30T12:56:00.004-04:00

Today I've been dreaming of having no clutter-- no child toys, no mess-- around the house. Wouldn't it be wonderful? I would love to be rid of all toys... only have books and art supplies for my children to stimulate their imagination. Also... I would like to have my house completely filled with various items from Ikea.... (remember, I did say "dreaming"...). Ha.

But speaking of Ikea, I did find a really awesome bed I'd like to start saving up for, for Elsie and Judah when they start sharing a room. It's called Kura, and it's a little bunk bed. So nice.

I realized while at the park this morning that I love having nothing to do but take care of my children. It's overwhelming at times, of course, especially the thought of three-- but that feeling mostly only comes upon me when I have a million other things to do.

That's all for now I guess.

california, elsie, and everything in between.

2009-04-02T11:14:00.003-04:00

1... Abby and I leave for California tomorrow for Ki Young and Hannah's wedding! WOO! How exciting. ...
...true feelings? I'm really nervous about flying. I never used to be. I used to LOVE flying, to crave it. But the more I think about airplanes, the more I come to the conclusion that there is no reason that they should be able to stay in the air... Plus, Justin and I just started watching Lost. Maybe that should just encourage me that if my plane did happen to crash, I might live through it!... right?

2... What is Elsie going to grow up to become? She is my sweet, precious, loving, considerate, beautiful daughter. But 9 out of 10 (made-up statistic) girls, at least here in Greenwood, turn into these terrifying beings, once they reach about 12 years old. How in the world can you raise a child to know what is really important, what is right, and good, and pure, etc... Boys are hard to raise too, for many different reasons. But girls-- another thing all together. It's really terrifying. I see these scandalous pictures of "girls" who are only 13-14 on myspace or whatever... and I wonder if that will be Elsie one day. I don't even like to consider it. But what did these parents do wrong in raising their children? Some of these parents are wonderful, godly people-- so what happened? And how do I avoid that same mistake?.... sigh....

3... We're having another baby girl. Just found that out a few weeks ago. And we're officially the proud owners of a minivan. Aren't we just the perfect little suburban family now ;)

4... Time for auditing.

a perfect day.

2009-03-07T13:43:00.002-05:00

Today is beautiful.

I would love to sit outside all day... and maybe I will.
I love the first days of spring/summer (though completely different seasons, I lump them together here because they bring in the warm weather, which is what I'm currently most grateful for.) Sitting at my "diamond room" (Elsie's rendition of "dining room"... it sounds very elegant :)) table, looking out the window is a lovely view. Whatever small tree that's in our front lawn has wonderful tiny pink blossoms. I love it.

I actually don't have much to say. I want to take photos. It's definitely that kind of day.

BREAK.

2009-03-03T14:20:00.003-05:00

I've been on "spring" break officially for 2 days now (even though I haven't been at school since last Wedenesday) and I'm already dreading the end. It's been wonderful. Not having to think about the next thing, no immediate homework to do, nothing that HAS to be done right at the moment. I could watch Iron Chef all day if I wanted. ... well not really... but the point is just that it's been wonderful being with my children, at home or wherever, and not have the stress of school (or work... oh I forgot about work. haven't been in some time now...) on me. It's a nice change.

Going now to maybe watch Iron Chef or listen to "The Road"... and maybe, just maybe, clean room :)

pink cupcakes

2009-02-12T10:54:00.005-05:00

i found a new use for my long afternoon class on mondays and wednesday. WRITE. I've started using my OneNote application, and instead of taking class notes (which are all already on my computer via powerpoint), I can write journal-y things.

I told Elsie yesterday that we would bake something and she asked "pink cupcakes??" So that is what we make. Chocolate cupcakes with pink (and I do mean PINK) buttercream frosting. Mmm. Red 40. I guess it can kind of be a pre-valentine's day treat.

I hate watching/reading the news. I do it, occassionally. But I really hate it. The state of our world is just so sad. So many people are just lost... have no hope... striving for someone to notice them... striving to "survive"... The things that some people do, whatever the motive, just amazes me (not in a good way).

TOMORROW~!

every answer sounds the same

2009-02-09T16:27:00.000-05:00

Mood swings-- not the best aspect of pregnancy. I've always known that pregnancy doesn't really suit me. But this emotional instability is really about to wear me out. This morning I had energy, felt good, was ready to tackle the day. By the time I got home, got the babies into bed to nap, and ate lunch-- all energy was drained and was no longer desiring to do anything but watch the office. Sometimes it's still surreal (right word? I don't use it often…) to know that I'm pregnant again. It doesn't feel real, to be honest. Or doesn't seem like it should be real.

Ohhhh myyyy gooooodnessss. This class is so long.

The only thing getting me through this week is the thought of this weekend. Yay for Atlanta! Yay for the Westin! Friday cannot come soon enough.

… But I will certainly miss my babies.

it's about time.

2009-01-14T11:49:00.002-05:00

hm, i just got really dizzy. bleh. i hate that feeling.

school started back. it's going to be an extremely hard semester. people ask me what i'm taking, and usually i just say -- "just a bunch of business and accounting classes"... i don't usually go into detail.... HOWEVER, i feel like listing my classes out right now.

1) ACCT403- Accounting Information Systems
2) MGMT330- Operations Management
3) ACCT302- Intermediate Accounting, part 2
4) BA325- Advanced Analytical Methods... i think that's what it's call...
5) ACCT402- AUDITING
6) ACCT490- Accounting Internship (through the job I already have)

.................... how am I ever going to survive. Single w/o children-- sure it would be fine. Difficult, but fine. Married with 2.5 children... borderline impossible.

Speaking of children, I have to go.

there's something more than the world out there

2008-12-05T08:35:00.002-05:00

Who really reaches adulthood at 18?... 21?

I was thinking about this for a long time yesterday. And I honestly don't think true adulthood is reached until at least 25, unless forced into it by circumstance (and that all just depends on the person). I don't know a single person who was an adult at 18... or 21. I certainly wasn't. I mean, really... think about the typical college student*... they live in perpetual-highschooler-mode, excepting that they can drink/smoke/etc... which makes matters worse.

Maybe independence shouldn't come until 23 or so... I'm not sure why the age keeps getting lower. That just doesn't seem right. When I think about myself when I first started college, I was so naive! It's just ridiculous to think about-- the way I saw the world and how I viewed myself and people in general.

...However... maybe the only way to get to adulthood is to go though that time of independence when you really don't know what to do, how to live, or what the world is really like. I guess that is how you learn. .... but some people just don't seem to ever come out of that.

I just looked up "adult" in the dictionary and it said "a person who is fully grown or developed or of age."... So i guess in order to be considered an adult, it really only deals with the physical aspect of growth, not the mental or emotional aspect. Maybe it should though.... maybe I need to speak with Mr./Mrs. Merriam-Webster.......

*disclaimer: typical college student. there are responsible 18-21 year olds... but that definitely not the norm.

GROWL

2008-11-17T10:44:00.002-05:00

1) I'm very thankful to have a computer

2) I would be more thankful if I had a computer that works

3) MY COMPUTER DOES NOT WORK!

...sorry...

Copied from the Week's "Best Columns: Europe"--

America again has a place in our hearts
"I am part of the first Norwegian generation that could not love America," said Tom Hetland. For 200 years, Norwegians have been emigrating to the United States, "the promised land." For my grandfather and my father, America represented "the safe, strong big brother who stood fast against Nazis and communists." It wasn't always perfect, but it was on our side. But for my generation, America was synonymous with Vietnam and Watergate, then Iran-Contra and the toppling of Salvador Allende in Chile, and most recently Iraq and Guantanamo. America was "a dark, twisted country" that killed its best men, Martin Luther King Jr., and Rober and John Kennedy. Norwegian writers of my generation spoke of the love for America as a thing of the past. Our singers sag of the America dream as a dream unfulfilled. But now that has changed. With the election of Barack Obama, America proved it can still "be the beacon of freedom, prosperity, and progressive politics that it once was for millions of people around the world." A nation that was until recently "so full of fear, brutality, and extremism" has chosen "democracy, humanism, and common sense." Now my generation of Norwegians can finally join our forefathers and "love America."
-Tom Hetland, Stavanger Aftenblad

...It is so interesting to me to hear what other countries think of America.

...it kills all thought

2008-11-05T10:40:00.003-05:00

Is it the end of the world?
Not yet.

Does it feel like it?
Maybe.

Are we living in historic times?
Definitely.

Does it really matter who the president is?
Maybe. but Maybe not.*

Should I go to grad school?
...should I?

*this is as political as I'll ever get.

desperate times call for desparate measures

2008-10-31T10:03:00.002-04:00

... is it ever ok to abandon your beliefs? Is there ever a situation in which it is ok to steal, lie, or even kill?

Example: If completely against McDonalds, and everything it stands for, is it ok to eat there if you're starving and there is nothing else around for miles and miles? Hundreds and thousands of miles even.

the daily grind

2008-10-25T16:02:00.002-04:00

वो हहहहः सो, इ'म व्रितिंग इन इंग्लिश, but it's translating it into hindi. how ridiculous is that!! i must have accidentally changed some setting.

I like it.

Monday, Wednesday, and Friday I always have an hour break between classes, around 10:15-11:15am. Normally I either go home or stay at school and do homework. But on Wednesday of this past week I decided to go to Jimary Java. I texted Grace to see if she was working, and she was not, in fact, they were not opened at all. ... ... So I thought I might try Starbucks, but I knew they didn't have wireless. Then, an idea popped into my head. That coffeeshop behind the hospital. I had driven by there before, but they had always been closed. But Wednesday they were open! Hurrah! And it was really nice. Small, but nice. They bake their own bread, slice their own meat, make their own whip cream for drinks (white chocolate!), fry their own chips, etc... Justin met me up there and we had an early lunch. It was really nice. I will definitely go again. They even had wireless! The only downside is their hours-- I think she said 7am-5pm, or somewhere around there. And not open on weekends. But the food was really good-- nice for lunch.

...which brings me to my next topic. I love baking. I don't know what it is... but it's almost theraputic. Even if I don't eat the things I make, it's just fun. I really want to open a bakery. One day I will. :)

convert?

2008-10-19T14:29:00.000-04:00

...

ok...

....... so I've been casually looking at laptops in hopes of maybe saving up for a new one. I think that the one I currently have is on it's last few legs... Or, in other words, about to die. And I think probably soon. In computer years, I would say it's going on 83.

I saw a news article about the New Apple MacBook. MacBook Pro is the one I'm looking at right now. And I want it. Right this minute.

Really. I do. But I've always used a PC. I know that Apples are good for art and design, but are they also good for business? I need comments/feedback. What are the arguments for or against Apple, from a business and school standpoint. Also comparison between PCs and Macs...?

HELP.

[sidenote: I don't have money for either, so this is for entertainment purposes only. And dreaming.]

FRIDAY.

2008-10-17T08:55:00.000-04:00