On The Trail To Somewhere

My Way or the Highway!

2012-01-25T15:44:00.000-05:00

I interrupt your regularly scheduled entertainment and humor, to bring you this: A Moment of Unloading by Geny.
*Disclaimer. These are MY opinions. Yes, I have them, as do you. If you want me to respect yours? Respect mine. Have something nasty? Keep it to yourself. I can and will delete/block anything I find offensive, arrogant, and ignorant.

Now. Where was I. Oh yes, unloading. I always find that I get particularly annoyed with all Americans around any kind of election, whether it be local or nation-wide. People get all hateful, cruel, judgemental, and closed-minded. All across the board, both liberal and conservative. It's our way or the highway, damn it! I cannot stand that attitude. And here's why:

Americans are spoiled brats. Yes, all of us. We live in a country that was founded on freedom, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Not dogma. This country was created to break free of oppression. Hm. Interesting, considering all Americans want to do these days is oppress people who have different opinions. Why? Because we think that as Americans, we should be able to get our way and never compromise. Ever. Look at Congress. It's constantly a stale-mate. People are so wrapped into their own parties, their own bank account, their own time, and their own experience to acknowledge anyone else's! It's pathetic. Look at churches. One pastor doesn't conduct "my" service the way I want? Kick him out! Pitch a fit! Demand things done MY way! OH MY GOD, JUST STOP IT ALREADY! Seriously!

We see it on facebook too. Someone posts an article and the next thing you know, someone makes a harsh, negative, judgemental comment stating all the horrible things that article had to say and how the writer is an idiot. Well done on the mature response, sir or ma'am. I'm sure speaking that way in front of all that poster's friends and family will make them think like you! Wrong. They will fire back (not advisable IMO), delete the comment, or block you all together. Then you will get angry! Hey, newsflash: If you are going to be rude and obnoxious therefore getting deleted or blocked? Your fault. Think things through next time. Maybe apologize. There's a concept...

Have you ever seen those lists of the world's happiest countries? America is never near the top. Why? Because we make ourselves unhappy. The whole "my way or the highway" attitude sets you up to always be frustrated and angry. Generally, Americans think they are better than everyone else. We are right! Everyone else is wrong! We never sit down and hear people out, because they are different and we couldn't POSSIBLY understand what they are saying! Why that would mean we are wrong! GASP! And we are NEVER wrong. What a sad way to live life. Some of my favorite experiences in life have been in situations, places, or with people who live life totally and completely different from me.

Here's the thing: By living in America we have the FREEDOM to think differently. We have the OPPORTUNITIES to learn and experience life in ways so many others do not. We can go to church if we want, go to the Temple if we want, go to a Mosque if we want. We can vote for someone who is very conservative if we want. We can vote for someone who is very liberal if we want. We can decide we don't like any candidates and NOT vote if we want. I can believe in God if I want. I can get mad and question God if I want. I can purchase a statue of Buddha and create a meditation room if I want. I can sell everything I own, move to NYC, and sleep on an air mattress for a year trying to find a job if I want. I can live in a big city that gets snow, live in a big city that is always warm, move to a ranch in Montana, live in the desert or mountains, or move to a beach if I want. Holy canoli people, how are we all so unhappy? Oh yes, it goes back to being spoiled with the mindset of "my way or the highway".

I am so incredibly grateful for the freedom to think the way I want. I am grateful for the freedom to engage in meaningful and civilized conversation with the many who think differently than I. I am grateful for the freedom facebook gives me to read all your thoughts and opinions. I am grateful for that "hide" button when I see hateful, hurtful, and offensive things posted. But most of all, I am grateful for the perspective I've gained from being in different countries, different areas of the US and surrounded by people who think and live very differently than I. They have changed me in some ways, made me more grounded in others, but overall have made me a more open and accepting person. I still have a long way to go, but I'm just glad I have the freedom to do that.

Things I've Learned in NYC: Part Two

2012-01-19T12:27:00.000-05:00

To continue my mini-series of posts about moving to NYC, I had considered theming this blog as well. However, I have my list of things I've learned, and they are all over the map. So, you'll have to deal with it! Take it as a mini-lesson of NYC living...things are random and you must deal! Ha!

1- 90% of people living in NYC are not originally from here. And that doesn't matter. Most towns in the US have this pride factor. "Our family has been here since my great great Aunt Betty in 1899!". Yeah, OK, great. Sure, there are the people who have never left the island of Manhattan, but in reality? Not a bragging point. We all originated somewhere else, and migrated to the Big Apple. That's what makes this city so culturally diverse and great! Own your heritage. It's part of your story, and NYC is a place so eclectic that your story will fit right in!

2- It's really OK to wear long underwear. No really, it is. First off, no one will know you have it on. Secondly, I promise you that dress pants and/or jeans will NOT keep you warm on a 20 degree day with the wind howling through tall buildings. So, unless you want to be so numb that you may not realize if you've wet yourself...WEAR LONG UNDERWEAR!

3- Always have cash. Always. Cash only places in NYC are actually very common. And no one wants to pay the $2.50 ATM charge to get a $2.00 slice of pizza. So really, make sure you've got at least a $20.00 bill on you...or lots of quarters.

3- If you work in a secure building, on your first day they are liable to confiscate your pepper spray. Best to just learn Taekwondo instead. And it's probably more effective than the can at the bottom of your purse...

4- If there is a clearing when waiting for a walk sign...just cross, but make sure to walk quickly. Especially on the one-lane, one-way streets, you could waste hours waiting for the walk sign. It's OK. Just make sure you've looked. And also, watch for bicycles. Those idiots are more dangerous than cars, because they refuse to follow traffic laws and rarely pay attention to pedestrians. Can you sense my bitterness towards them? It's there...

5- If you pay over $12.00 for a manicure...you've been ripped off.

6- You're mood is likely intensified just because of your surroundings. Be aware of that. If you're stressed, getting on the subway can really set you off. If you're sad, being surrounded by millions of people you don't know can add to the depression. If you're angry, you'll run into several more idiots. BUT: if you're happy, you'll notice more joy in the city than anywhere else! If you're giggly, you'll see funny outfits, statues, or signs that will keep you laughing! If your curious, there is always a new place to go! There is really no way to avoid the fact that NYC can intensify your moods. You just need to be conscious of the mood you are in, and make sure you have ways of dealing, breathing, and bringing yourself down (or up) to a manageable range.

7- Dishwashers, In-building laundry, Central AC, counter space, closets, more than 2 windows: ALL LUXURIES. Really. And for those luxuries? You'll fork out the dough! You can live without them, I promise. Window units and fans are excellent and I guarantee half the stuff you store in your closet you NEVER use...if you are even aware it's there! Essentially, know your own priorities, then make concessions and move on. My priorities? Location and a secure building. Storage space, size, floor plan, dishwasher? Doesn't matter. Want more space? Don't expect to live anywhere near NYC, so hope you are OK with long commutes. Can't have everything....unless you make in the 7 figure range.

8- Be open to the experiences from day to day. People watch! Enjoy the random mariachi bands on the subway! Detour thru the park on your walk home! Pay attention to the different colors that light up the Empire State Building! Go to festivals! Chat with the person next to you at the cafe. If you're going to go through the hassle of living in NYC....then LIVE IN NYC! (But, please, don't live in Queens...)

A note to my lovely, faithful readers: I promised you something that I missed in my last blog. I've delivered. First one to tell me what it is can give me a topic to blog about...

Things I've Learned Since Moving to NYC: Part 1

2011-12-01T12:51:00.001-05:00

Two of the questions I am most frequently asked (aside from the annoying ones about marriage, career, and other things I'm clueless about) are "What's it like to live in NYC?" or "What have you learned?" So, I've decided to make a little mini-series on my blog about my ponderings around those subjects. This go-around, I'm focusing on the day-to-day life. What is it like to commute via subway? What specific qualities or skills have I needed to learn or adapt? And a few common misconceptions or assumptions that can be explained by the daily life of a New Yorker.

*Disclaimer: These are qualities and observations from a daily standpoint. It does not represent how I live my entire life or how I always am. So, don't take it too seriously and enjoy!

1. The majority of New Yorkers are not mean. I've had many fun and interesting surprise conversations on the subway, in cafes, or on street corners. I've seen two factors go into this idea that New Yorkers are mean.
A- We have places to be in a city that runs like clock-work: DOWN TO THE SECOND. So people who stop in the middle of sidewalks, stroll with their friends taking up the ENTIRE width of the sidewalk, or get up to the register then take another minute to decide whether they want chocolate or vanilla are just plain in our way. And if you miss a particular subway or bus and have to catch the next one, you've missed the next connection and it's thrown a huge kink in your timing. And generally, the boss doesn't take the excuse of: "people were in my way."
B- NYC has a population of over 8 million people. On a very very small island. The chances of you running into mean and or cranky people is INSANELY HIGHER than that of living in a smaller, more spread out community.

2. The elevator ride up to your office is really just another changing room. Have to wear heels with your suit to work? Throw them in your bag and change out of your flats between floors 1 and 15 to avoid the blisters and getting stuck in subway grates. Need to wear that skirt or dress in January? Throw a pair of warm sweats on over the hose and under the skirt, then strip it off between floors 12 and 22 so you avoid the flu and your leg hair doesn't grow back asap. Raining? Tuck your pants into the knee-high rain boots, wear a long trench-style poncho, and wrap something over your hair (umbrellas don't work...I'll get to that later). Then, as you go up 30 floors, you'll have time to change shoes and unwrap your hair and fluff it (because it will be dry!) I promise you won't get strange looks, because everyone else will be busy doing the same.

4. You've gotta have a "New Yorker game face" on. That includes the expressionless mouth, unfaltering gaze ahead, straight back, and quick steps. If not, you run the risk of being taken advantage of by sales-people, beggers, pick-pocketers, and other various types of people.

5. Always, always have a "plan B" route to get somewhere. Subways and trains are so amazing, but they do run into trouble at times. For instance, last night, my subway home was shut down due to someone being struck by a train. If I didn't know a back-up way to get home, I would have been at that subway stop for hours...or have to fork out my life savings for a cab ride.

6. If there are 3 empty seats on a subway, you don't take the one right next to another person. This is an unspoken rule, and I am not sure as to the reason. I just know it exists. And if I'm sitting on a subway or train and there are 2 empty seats across the way but you choose to sit directly next to me? I'm creeped out and on guard. Immediately. I may also give you a strange glare...

7. If the lights flicker or you hear strange noises on a subway, and no one else is panicking, THEN ITS OK. Generally speaking, New Yorkers have seen it all. So if at any point and time, you question whether you should panic, look around. If everyone else is still on their crackberry, reading, or have their eyes shut, you are just fine. Chill out. No need to cause a scene.

8. Umbrellas during major commuting hours rarely, if ever, actually keep you dry. Ever tried sharing a sidewalk with 250 other people with umbrellas? I have. It doesn't work. And they don't care whether you get wet, they only care if they get wet. So don't expect them to avoid you or lift their umbrella up a tad when passing. I've found I should just wear a hood and walk quickly, weaving in and out of the umbrella people. That way I stay dry and I'm not cranky because my umbrella was attacked by 22 others.

9. And finally, after all these other things, you have to learn not to let stuff get to you. New Yorkers have a resilence like I have never seen before. From little things to big things. Guy pushes you out of the way and takes the last seat on the subway? Give him a dirty look and a scoff, then move on. If you let that ruin your day, you'd never have a good one. Have two major and uncommon natural disasters in one week, resulting in weeks of no power? Survive, share the funny story of you saving your Snapple Apple, then go to work the next day, because inevitably they will get the trains working before your hot water. New York never shuts down, so the faster you can recover, the easier your life is going to be.

All in all, my biggest lesson on daily living in NYC is to try and make light out of all the shit that happens. Because living in this city is hard. And stressful. And can really wear you down if you don't learn coping mechanisms for the day to day stuff that is bound to happen sooner or later. But, even through all the madness, I love this city. I love life in this city. Everyday is a new and unpredictable adventure! And I wouldn't trade it for anything.

Real Fan or the Village Idiot?

2011-11-07T11:54:00.000-05:00

If you know me personally, then you are well aware of my love of college football. In fact, I've previously blogged about my team loyalties. To me, there is no better Saturday than a sunny day, tailgating with beer, grilled food, and family/friends, then attending a game in a large stadium, sporting my favorite colors. Win or Lose, I wouldn't trade my Saturdays of college football for anything.

All colleges have die-hard followers. Especially in the south. College football is often compared to religion (boy could I be side-tracked on THAT thought). If you were born in the South, then most likely you were BORN into a certain color. I was born into Crimson. Hands down. My dad attended the University of Alabama. My uncle played football for "the Bear". 95% of my cousins, aunts, uncles, etc have diplomas from UA. My dad would take me to games in Tuscaloosa whenever we could. 40-something Kimbrell's would (and still do) sing Christmas carols around a Crimson and White christmas tree, with an Elephant on the top (or a national championship game ticket now). I was born with Crimson blood. And I'm proud to love the University of Alabama. Through good seasons and bad.

Then, I got a scholarship to Mississippi State University. One I could not turn down. Education paid for, I began to mix Maroon into my Crimson wardrobe. Being a Bulldog was great fun! I learned to love the sound of Cowbells and that when I hear the word "maroon" shouted, I must return a loud and hearty "white!" It was always hard when the Bulldogs faced my Crimson Tide, but I would just be happy with any outcome...proud that both teams played well, and not lose sleep over it.

But, here comes the problem with loving my team(s) this much: It can be ruined by the village idiot. Each team has them. As a fan, you can't deny the fact that every single school (yes, even YOURS) has idiot fans. The ones who throw things, curse at visiting teams, rock the buses of a visiting band, post insults on facebook statuses, etc etc. And that can ruin the feel of college football for anyone. Especially the TRUE fans. The fans that, through thick and thin, purchase tickets, wear their colors, and at the end of the day...win or lose...say they love their team. But, the village idiot can completely ruin a team's reputation. It can ruin the image of classy fans. And it can create enemies and hatred like no other.

For example: During my time at Mississippi State, I travelled to MANY away games. I can proudly say I've been in every SEC stadium, with the excpetion of South Carolina. However, by far my worst experience was going to Fayetteville, AK. Arkansas actually beat Mississippi State by a good 40 points (a very common occurance for a Bulldog fan). It wasn't the cursing and mocking that got me during the game. It was the fact that during the 4th quarter, I had beer and nacho cheese thrown at me and my friends. Deliberately. Because I was wearing Maroon. Now, even though I know several very nice Arkansas fans, I cannot pull for them. Believe me, when they play Ole Miss or Auburn I try really hard. But I can't. Because two village idiots ruined my perception of the entire experience.

Another example: a friend of mine came to Starkville for the Alabama game. Mississippi State (somehow) won that game. And a few Bulldogs rang cowbells in the ears of my friend...causing his ears to actually hurt for 2 days. And he will never again come back to Starkville or pull for Mississippi State, even when they play Auburn. Can't say that I blame him either.

Alabama and Auburn? A great rivalry. Like none other. Two amazing and great programs with long history. Each team saying their fans have class and the other does not. Well, let me burst your bubble: you both have village idiots. And you both have classy fans. Get out of denial.

There is no need to make snide remarks. There is no need to give me a large dry-cleaning bill. There is no need to ring a cowbell in another's face. There is no need to yell and scream at other fans when you loose. There is no need to be rude on facebook. Pull for your team. Love your team. And protect your team and your fan's reputation by GROWING THE HELL UP. There are much bigger and real problems in life.

Perks of Positivity

2011-10-22T16:36:00.000-04:00

I have this tendency to take random parts of my day, and find a deeper and more significant meaning behind it. Probably why I enjoy blogging so much and also why I went to seminary. And today was no exception.

I hoped on the Light Rail to go to the Newport Mall in Jersey City. I needed some kind of warm rain jacket to get me through a NYC commuter winter. The day was beautiful and I was enjoying being out and relaxing while I shopped around the mall. I ended up getting such a great deal on my coat that I decided to hit up the nail salon by our apartment on my way home for a manicure (it was very much needed...poor nails). I love this salon. They are so friendly! The girl who always does my nails speaks very little English, so I always try to speak Spanish to her. Now, my Spanish is fair at best...but I try. Catalina also helps me when she can figure out what I'm trying to say. And if she can't, she just laughs and at least I've entertained her. So today, just like my other visits, I went in, sat down and started the hilarity that are our conversations. Afterwards, I decided to go for a 10min chair massage. I get in the chair...and I hear them talking to each other in Spanish. All I hear is "paid for 10min", "set clock for 30", and what I thought was "warm feet" but really ended up being "warm towel". So. For $10, I ended up getting a 30min massage, a 5 minute scalp rub, and it all ended with this amazing warm towel rub. I imagine that is what happens in Heaven on a daily basis.

When I got up, I looked at her and said "Wow, that was a lot more than 10 minutes!!" And the owner, who can speak english, responded with "the girls like when you come in because you make the effort to enjoy their company, so this is their way of saying thank you."

Friends, NEVER underestimate the power of human connection. I wonder how many people go into a nail salon or restauarant, and make no effort to try and get to know their servers. How often does a bartender give you a round on the house if you aren't friendly? Sure, you go in expecting a certain degree of service...but in my 25 years, I've never seen being ugly, getting attitude, or flat ignoring the person who is serving you, pay off with anything but pure frustration when you leave.

Also, how many times have I heard people say, "Well, they dont speak English so I dont know how to talk to them". That's fine, you don't have to. But there is some power behind meeting people where they are. And you know what? It's not even that hard to go into the salon and make the effort to speak Spanish with them. I actually find it fun! We all know how to say hello and thank you. People are not objects, whether you can understand them or not. They are humans. With souls. And feelings. They respond to positive energy, just like you do. Just like I do. And I find that I enjoy my day and my life a lot better when I'm friendly to ALL people around me. I also find myself getting amazing massages and random perks every now and then too :)

It all boils down to the fact that we all crave human connection. And crave a positive human connection. So much of life is negative. So many people out there are rude, and ungrateful, and have hateful things to say. And if I join them, not only am I putting negative energy into the world, that is also what I'm taking out. And in my experience, the world sends enough negative connections to you without you making an effort to reciprocate or provoke them. So, I'm doing my best to only put out positive energy. To find small, medium, and large ways of making positive human connections during my days. Because I know that if I'm craving those connections this badly, others are too.

Occupying Wall Street: In More Ways Than One.

2011-10-06T11:31:00.000-04:00

The phrase "Occupy Wall Street" is very interesting for me. Because I do, actually occupy "Wall Street". However, I do so with a whole lot of questions and thoughts. Recently, I have been feeling very caught in between two different worlds. I’ve been conflicted in my thoughts and ideas about how I want to live my life, what I think is right and just, how I view the world around me, and essentially, how all of those ideas fit into the fact that I have to survive in a world that makes no sense to me.

I am sure that you all have at least heard about the “Occupy Wall Street” protests going on around the country. Some of you have probably been following from the beginning. Some of you have done your research and understand the actual reasoning, whether you support it or not. Some of you are making fun of them and getting all upset while not truly understanding their words. Some of you, while not being okay with the current situation in America, feel that places like Wall Street are not to blame. Some of you probably think that places like Wall Street can provide the solution to the problems we are facing. Some of you live in places where it doesn’t affect you so it’s just another big city news story. Some of you work in these industries, and feel insulted and uncomfortable that your hard work and money is being called into question right now. And, I hope, that somewhere, some of you are like me. Feeling like the people out there protesting this insane income difference, in a country that is supposed to have equal rights and opportunity, are YOUR people, however, you are sitting in a Wall Street office because it was the only choice you had at the moment.

I currently hold a position at a financial firm in Manhattan. I get up every morning around 6am, make my coffee, catch some of the early edition of Today, get ready, and go. I walk about 10 blocks to the subway, hold on for dear life for about 15 minutes, get off, fight my way through millions of other people, and arrive at my office building. I go through security, get on the elevator, go up 30 floors to get off, and use my finger print to open the glass doors to the company that currently employs me. I bid everyone a good morning, stopping to chat with a few people along the way about their evening shopping spree, wedding plans, the previous weekend of college football, or their new dog. I make my way to my desk, no later than 9am and begin my work day. Sometimes I work straight through lunch, surviving off the coffee I make and pop tarts that I threw in my bag at home, and I still don’t leave the office until 7pm. I’ve had to cancel plans with people on more than one occasion because I’ve been stuck finishing things up and could not leave. For 80% of people who work in this industry, this is what life looks like. And you barely pull in a salary good enough to cover your benefits, rent, food, and an occasional trip to visit family. Now, our bosses and executives are different. But, they don’t make up the majority of people working in these offices. And, most of us who are putting in 14 hour days, buying off-brand everything so rent is covered, and being so tired by Friday that all you want to do is curl into a ball all weekend, watch endless Law and Order marathons and ignore all phone calls and interactions with people, will never make executive or partner. Yes, we’ll get a raise so we can upgrade to Ragu pasta sauce instead of Target brand, but that’s about it. So why are we here? Well, those answers vary, depending on the person. Here is my answer:

At 25 years old, I would have never envisioned myself ever doing what I do right now. I’ve always been very much into non-profit work, church work, and justice work. I never thought I’d end up doing a 9-6 job in a company that essentially wires millions of dollars to places that already have millions of dollars, and leaving myself no time and energy to volunteer or actually make a difference in the world. Then I spent close to 4 months being unemployed, going on interview after interview, attending Bartending School to try and make money, babysitting and house sitting for friends, and wondering how to pay student loans, bills, rent, and various other things. So, imagine my relief when a guardian angel emailed me and told me to go meet with a friend of hers in Manhattan, who ran his own company. I go in for interview #1 with my resume in hand and heels on my feet, and immediately feel out of place in that environment. But, the lady interviewing me was wonderful and thought that I had a lot of energy and potential. I had no background in finance, other than fundraising and balancing a check-book (very badly at times), but the company liked what they saw, knew I had rock solid references, and took a chance on me after interview #2. After 4 months of nothing but frustration and disappointment, I found a company that not only hired me, but believed I could do the job before me, even without experience. With no other offers in sight, I took it without a second thought. Four months later, I’m still digging out of financial holes, but I’m much better off than I was and I’m incredibly lucky in comparison to others in similar situations.

Now I find myself in a different yet still conflicting situation: I’m watching people protest the place I work…yet, I find myself pulled to join them. I like what they are saying. I’m not okay with this insane income difference right now. But, to be completely honest with you, I don’t have the answers either. I don’t know what I want out of the protest or if I blame "Wall Street". But then again, if you truly get to the heart of this protest, neither do they. This protest is more about bringing attention to something that needs attention. It’s not about the “list of demands”. It’s an entirely different approach to protesting. An approach that is not all that new and surprising to many of these up and coming generations, but a way of peacefully (most of the time) taking their freedom of speech, stating their views, beliefs, and stories, but leaving the conversation about how to find a solution open…so that all sides can come to the table and figure out how to work for positive change. Ha, like America will actually go for that. But I can dream, can’t I?

I find myself wanting to join them, not to protest the work that my co-workers, and now friends, are doing. But to bring light to the fact that the 99% of people they are fighting for…also work on "Wall Street". I’m part of a generation of young people who believe that you should put morals, callings, and desires before finances, you should protest and eat out of cans before taking a job that you do not believe in, you should “trust” that when you “follow your heart” everything has a happy ending. But that is exactly what I did not do, because I ran out of options and needed to try and make a life for myself, and I told myself that what I’m doing now is not permanent. It’s a stepping stone to something different, and a way of living at the current moment in time. And that was a good enough answer for me then.

But, where does that leave me in the middle of these protests and constantly feeling like I’m caught between two worlds? Well, exactly there. Feeling conflicted about my life, my next move, and which direction I need to head. And I imagine, you are going to find the majority of your “99%” that hold jobs on “Wall Street” feeling the exact same way.

The point of this blog was not to make an argument in favor of any particular side or viewpoint, but to open up the situation a little further: and point out that this is NOT black and white at all. In fact, for me, it’s all different shades of grey. Yes, something needs to change. Yes, people are suffering and hurting and are left with very few, if any, options. But, what that answer is? I have no clue. How do I, as a Christian, a full supporter of equal rights for ALL people, a lover of the environment, a supporter of health care reform, a young adult who has been to the poorest areas in the world and also the richest, who has fed a baby a bottle made from the most polluted water I’ve seen and also held a child dressed in a $150 cotton nightie, a worker who brings home her paycheck from a financial firm, and has a spirit that always wants to fix every little broken thing she finds, come up with the direction that brings about peace? I’m stumped…

Dear Douchebags

2011-06-14T19:16:00.000-04:00

Dear Douchebags,

As a female, who KNOWS that she has more to offer the world than just her body, I am writing you this formal letter, in hopes that it will open your eyes to more than just my chest.

I did not get a say in the fact that I have breasts and a vagina. There I said it. The "v" word. Making you uncomfortable yet? Good...because that's how you make me feel. Just because I have those body parts, does NOT give you the right to treat me like a possession or a piece of meat. It does NOT mean you can stare at them point blankly on a subway, in a restaurant, in an elevator, or while I'm talking to you. Those body parts do not have a "free pass" sign on them, nor were those body parts given to me so I can get a job at your company or be used when you are pissed off or need to "relieve stress". Those body parts are meant to be beautiful and treated with respect.

I did not get a say in whether I was born male or female, and quite frankly, I don't think it's right for me to live certain days of my life wishing I was the opposite. Especially when I enjoy being a female on most days, unless I cross paths with someone like you.

I am a smart girl. I am friendly, outgoing, I smile a lot, I make people laugh, and I have some really good friends. I have Bachelor's and a Master's degree. I've worked in many great jobs, I have travelled all over the world, I have earned a tremendous amount of respect from people, I have earned their trust and kept their confidence, and there is a hell of a lot more to me than breasts, a vagina, tan skin, and long hair. And if you do not have the decency or the respect to treat me, or any other woman, the way that we DESERVE to be treated, one of these days, you will get what's coming to you. You may get to keep your incredible job or your pimped out car, but at somepoint, even if its at death, the score will even out.

It is my deepest desire, hope, and dream that every girl who has EVER felt like a male's dish will discover how precious and beautiful she really is. How she is NOT defined by her body parts and by how many guys "want" her. She is NOT defined by whether or not she puts out. And she is definitely NOT defined by the douchebags that she will more than likely encounter in her lifetime. And that YOU, dearest douchebag, will begin to realize the real worth of a woman and begin to treat them with respect. As equals. As loving, amazing individuals who are smart and worth something more than a quick lay.

Sincerely,
An Incredibly Pissed Off, But Strong Female

With Power Comes Great Responsibility

2011-04-07T12:59:00.000-04:00

Recently, my roommate Misty and I have been catching up on the latest songs that have been released. We find them catchy and fun. One song, in particular, had perked our ears up and continually got stuck in our heads. However, we were both incredibly disturbed at the words we were singing over and over again. This song is "S&M" by Rihanna. I think the kicker was when we were walking through the grocery store parking lot, singing loudly, and the next thing we knew we had sung the lyrics "chains and whips excite me" very loudly. Whoops! That earned some looks. At that point, we looked at each other and thought, what are we singing?

Has this happened to you? You hear this awesome, catchy song...get it in your head for weeks, then finally sit down to find the lyrics and you are shocked at what you are hearing? It seems to me it's happening more and more as time goes on. Another example is Katy Perry's new song "Kiss Me". Lyrics include things such as "take me", "I wanna be a victim", and other phrases that are piercing to me. Now, if one takes the time to really look this song up, you can determine that she is talking about a crazy kind of supernatural love. But the majority of people are going to just hear the catchy tune, listen to the key lyrics that stand out (which happen to be "I wanna be a victim") and they will hear that message over and over.

What are we hearing?

I can't tell you how many sexual assault and rape victims I have met, who have told me that people assumed they wanted to be raped, that they were asking for it. There are people who believe that deep down, there are women who want to be violated. Well, when a woman stands and sings a song in which the stand out lyric is "I wanna be a victim", of course they think that.

America is a free country. We have freedom of speech and expression (with the exception of running around naken in public). But if we are going to be free to express, we also need to realize the responsibility that comes with that expression. And that is education. After Misty, Jeff, and I looked up the lyrics to Katy Perry's song and had a long discussion/debate about it, we realized she is not speaking of violence, but of a supernatural love. However, that is not the surface message we are relaying to listeners. That is the message you can discern once you look into it. Who does that, other than us Drew graduates who have had years of sociological training in this area?

These messages have great effects on an already vulnerable population: young people who don't have loving and commited parents, kids in foster care, those feeling lonely in the world, those that have already experienced violence. Who is there to educate them? We can't simply say that it's up to parents to educate their kids in this area, because we live in a world where it's actually more likely that a child will not have that positive influence in their life. Those children are already more likely to head down the wrong path...and sometimes I feel that we just make it worse for them.

People need to realize the power they possess. As someone who has worked with children and youth for 8 years now, I can honestly look back and completely panic at how much influence I had on the young people I worked with. They would buy the same earrings I had, start watching the TV shows they saw on my facebook, burn my CD's, and remember every word I told them. In fact, I still have former youth tell me "I remember when you did this..." and I honestly don't remember, but they do. It's scary when you sit back and realize the influence you have had on people...and still do. But, with power comes great responsibility.

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. I'm fairly positive I could blog you to death about this topic, and I'll try to refrain, but I want to urge you all to take a moment and think about where your influence and power lies. We all have it, even when we are scared to admit it. Now, take that power and influence and use the month of April to find ways to push back against negative images and words. Push back against the idea that women want to be violated. Reach out to those who are vulnerable in our world. And always, always remember that what we say and do is never just ours. It effects the world, one way or another. Use your power for good.

Tribute: Night O' Fun

2011-04-05T00:40:00.000-04:00

There are many things in my life that I am proud to say I am a part of. A small number of those things I am even prouder to say I helped create. But one stands out. One lone accomplishment and creation that I took part in, that has lived on through the years. Touching the lives of countless young people, helping them turn towards their new path in life. And that, my friends, is NIGHT O' FUN!!!

It all started in late April of 2008. Our close-knit group of friends began the harsh realization that we were graduating college. Not only were we graduating, but we were all moving to different pockets of the globe. As the time drew near, we felt the urge to go out in style. So we organized a large party. Unsure of what we wanted this party to be, we simply sent the invite, knowing people would come because we had food. Hours before the start, Alex and I took out a notebook, and began to write a list of things we wanted to do that night, as our last Hoorah. Owen and Kayla began to join the list making. Soon, Kayla and I were working on the list (still in the old, worn-out notebook) while Owen and Alex ran to WalMart to gather all our supplies.

When they returned, our list was so extensive, we had to use new paper. Hence, the beginning, of "List O' Fun". On a very large piece of butcher paper, we constructed our plan for Night O' Fun (which later became, Night O' Fun version 1.0). When we finished, the amazing creation covered an entire wall-window at the Welsey. The list included everything we could think of: from our classic Mario Kart and Whiffle Ball battles; to games we made up, such as frolleyball and the broom game; to games we inherited along our journey, like the Dragon Game. Also on the list, were things we had attempted to do and dreamed of doing. Like climbing to the roof of Lee Hall and practicing inner tube water polo in Chadwick Lake.

Next was the implementation of Night O' Fun, which I really can only describe as pure joy. We spent 12 hours, from sunset until sunrise, reliving every crazy, hilarious, fun, exciting, and slightly stupid thing we had ever done during our 4 years at Mississippi State University. In fact, I still look back on those photo albums, and see the looks of utter happiness on all our faces. We ended our amazing night very appropriately, at the Huddle House. As we all parted at 7am that morning, getting ready to shower, and some of us to put on our caps and gowns, it was bitter sweet. But we knew that we gave our last night one hell of a send off.

I write of this now, because Night O Fun version 4.0 is now in the planning stages. Brad and Sarah, who are two of only three original Night O Fun-ers left, are graduating. And the fact that this tradition has lived on for so long gives me great pride and joy. Because not only did we have the time of our lives, but we accidently created an insane tradition, that only those of us who braved 4+ years of Starkville, MS could do.

Night O' Fun versions 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, and all future versions...I salute you. And hope to return to your festivities one day.

My Very Own Word

2011-04-03T22:26:00.000-04:00

Recently, my roommates and I watched the movie "Eat, Pray, Love". I absolutely loved this movie for so many reasons. One of them, was the fact that during dinner, while she was in Italy, they went around the table and all declared a word for themselves at that moment in life. One word, to describe where they were in life and what they were doing. This led my roommates and I to search for our own word. However, I am finding this task to be more difficult than it may sound.

This afternoon, both my roommates gave me what they feel their word is. And I must say, both words really do suite them. But, I am still struggling with mine. So I went for a long walk on the water today, to try and decide what my word should be. I found myself having so many conversations...about all the crazy things going on in my life right now. Here are some of the words I came up with, altho I have not determined one yet:

Wander. I am in a place of wandering right now. And I don't necessarily think that it is negative. I don't have a clear view of what I want my career to be. I just know that it involves being in the world, being places where not many people go, and loving people. How that will turn out? I don't know. So I'm wandering. I've gone all kinds of directions. A church job, where I instantly begin to love people in the congregation. A bartender, where I listen to the troubles of my regulars who trust me explicitly, and love them as well. I've applied for positions in a variety of settings. I'm wandering through life at the moment. And altho it's hard, I think it's an okay place to be.

Building. (This word was Jeff's idea). I'm building a lot right now. I'm building relationships in my life. With Simon, with my family, with my friends. I'm building a trust level and a community level that I have never had. I'm building my career...in whatever it may be. I'm building a life...filled with people, places, adventures, travels, and love. But, the word "building" makes me really tired when I think of all the work I'm doing...so if you have synonyms that don't sound so...exhausting...let me know.

Giggle. I'm not sure why I thought of giggle. But I did. Laughing is great medicine. And I keep telling myself, that when things get rough, if I can find something to at least giggle about, it will be okay. So I strive to find the things in life that make me giggle. My roommate's random outbursts or strange questions, the little baby that stares at me for half an hour while I sip on coffee, the texts I get from Kathryn telling me the cute phrases coming out of the boys' mouths that day, or Ellen Degeneres's hilarious tweets. Things that make you giggle should always be sought after.

Surrender. I have this need to be in control of everything. This should not shock any of you. I'm a control freak. But there are things I really need to let go, and maybe this is a good time to do that. I need to let go of the pain from my past. I need to let go of the need to guard my heart around people. I need to let go of things people have done to me...and things I have done to people. However, I need to do more than just surrender...so I nixed that word.

Which brings me back to wander. But I just don't feel that's my word. So my quest is not over. I'm still trying to find my word for life. So for now, I think, my word will be "SEARCH". Until further notice...

So. What is your word?

Uncertainties

2011-03-03T18:35:00.000-05:00

Well. It's March. Clearly I didn't meet my exact challenge. Blogging everyday for 28 straight days, while working full-time AND getting ready to move proved to be near impossible. I made 13 out of the 28 days in February, and I figure that was good. I did not want to give you all so-so blog posts, so I decided to go for quality and not quantity. Ah, life lessons.

Even though my challenge is semi-complete, I will be continuing to blog about random things in life, as usual. Today's blog: Uncertainty.

I feel like we all, at one point in life, have felt nothing but uncertainty about the future. Or even the present. To me, it's so interesting how we can look out at the people in the universe, and tell ourselves that we are the only one struggling. The only one who has fear. The only one fighting a battle. The only one uncertain about the future. It's because, as human beings, we learn to put on a front and face the world head-on. Or most of us do. But the fact of the matter, is that we are all faced with uncertainties. And until we admit to ourselves what they are, we are going in circles.

I remember when I went to Lithuania several years ago. Strange language, strange land, and 3 college students. We had to learn, on our own, money exchange, how to get from city to city, where to stay, and how to run these camps. I had never been faced with more uncertainties, then standing on that curb, intitially, in Siauliai, Lithuania with John and Brittney. It was hard. We messed up. Had to start over sometimes. But you know what? That was that one of the best experiences of my life. Learning how to LIVE INTO the uncertainties in life.

So, today, that is what I'm learning to do once again. Live into the uncertainties of life. I may not know much...but I do know that continuing to put one foot in front of the other, staying true to one's self, and stopping to enjoy to journey will never let you down.

Day Thirteen: No Socks

2011-02-18T17:00:00.000-05:00

I really do not like socks. At all. They confine my feet. Most people know this fact about me, and some of you have probably been witness to my constant complaining about this article of clothing. Now, obviously, living up north, I have come to at least appreciate these pieces of fabric, because they do keep my feet warm and safe from frostbite when it snows. But that does not mean I have to enjoy wearing them. However, socks seem to cause more problems than just confining my feet and causing me to complain all winter. They disappear. Yes. Sneaky little things. They are always disappearing! It's bad enough that I have to spend money on socks that are somewhat comfortable, so I don't go crazy with things wrapped all over my feet. But then, to have them constantly running away from me? That's just insane. So hear me and my conspiracy theory out: Am I turning into Munch?!?! (SVU humor...cheesy I know)

Socks just disappear in the dryer! How rude! I even use fabric softener when I wash my socks (yes, I may hate wearing them...but if I have to wear them, they better be soft and snuggly). So I treat my socks nicely. How dare they run off! And without their mate! Not only does that leave their partner lonely and only useable for a puppet, but it leaves me very very confused as to how it escaped when the dryer locks from the outside. Conspiracy.

They always seem to unfold themselves in the drawer. I take specific time out of my day, to make sure my pairs of socks are tucked nicely together, so when I'm scrambling to get to work on time, I can grab a pair and run. How is it that when I open my drawer, all I have are single socks!!! I know I folded them together! What is going on?!?! Conspiracy.

So. I am grateful when I don't have to wear socks. Like today! It's February, but for some reason it's 64 degrees and I have on NO SOCKS! Glorious. Happy no sock day to you all!!!

Day Twelve: Pure Exhaustion

2011-02-17T13:49:00.000-05:00

Have you ever been so incredibly tired and spent that you have no choice but to collapse? You literally could not take on one more thing, even if you tried? You are probably thinking I'm nuts, yesterday I'm grateful for bad days and today I'm thankful for pure exhaustion...but I am. Here's why:
If you are anything like me, relaxing never really happens. Yes, I talk walks, watch TV, take showers, etc....but my mind is always on over-drive. Even while trying to take off. I have one day off a week, Fridays, and if I'm not spending that time volunteering in NYC, I'm usually doing housework...or sneaking into the office to work. I'm not forced to, but my mind is always so busy, that it does not know how to calm down. I clearly need to get better at this, but until I learn...this is how it works with me.
So, I really never actually collapse until my body, mind, and spirit can't take anymore. Yes, I know this is not healthy. I'm working on it. But still, I must be grateful to my body, mind, and spirit...for actually shutting down at times. For if it didn't, I would never relax.
Today, I'm so exhausted that it's taken me over an hour to write these few paragraphs. I'm so out of focus I can barely finish a conversation with someone. And my spirit is so burnt out that I'm actually visiting those facebook apps that tell me what God wants me to know. And if you know me...you know that means I'm desperate LOL. But I'm grateful. Because this means that I will actually rest this afternoon and tonight. Because I will have no other choice.
This may sound crazy...being grateful for pure exhaustion...but sometimes, it's how you look at life that really matters and not what happens.

Day Eleven: Bad Days and Fresh Starts

2011-02-16T15:35:00.000-05:00

First off, apologies for another posting gap. When I accepted this challenge, I failed to take in account for the countless hours my actual job takes from my life. If only I could blog for a living. I'm now looking into that, actually. Please advise, lol.

I am not thankful for actual bad days. Because they suck. But I am thankful that I have the freedom to have a bad day. I may have a ton of stuff to get done, people coming in and out wanting a smile, or appointments and meetings until 9pm at night....but I can still have a bad day if need be. Not only do I have the freedom for a bad day, but there are people around that can help make that bad day better. By making me laugh, even unknowingly. Or bringing me coffee. Or sending me a nice text message to let me know they are thinking of me.
Bad days are a part of life. Everyone has them. And they DO suck. No one gets up in the morning as says, ok, I think I want to have a bad day today. Ok, maybe subconsciously, but that's not my point. My point is that sometimes we just have rough days. Our spirit gets punched on, we have little sleep, maybe we are sick, or everything just goes wrong. And it's ok to just say, wow, today was awful. Because we have that freedom. The key is to not stay there. To try and focus on the small acts that made you smile or cheered you up a bit. Then just go to bed, and start over tomorrow.Which reminds me, I'm also grateful for fresh starts :).
Embrace your bad days. And look forward to your fresh starts. And forgive me for my writers block recently...

Day Ten: Non-Existent Age Gaps

2011-02-12T14:56:00.000-05:00

I've been living in Rehoboth Beach for about 7 months now. I have 2 more weeks to go, before I head back up the turnpike where I want to be. But it's been a hard 7 months. For one main reason...and many many little reasons. But, the main reason being the complete absence of people remotely close to my age...with my same interests. Don't get me wrong, there are some AMAZING people here, and my life has been blessed by them, but it's not the same as having close friends nearby. Or family. Or friends who are your family. That's a subset of people that I was never able to find and click with.
But, last night, I went over to my new friend, Karen's house. Karen is (I'm estimating) close to 30-35 years older than I am. But she is a kindred spirit, so to speak. I was there with her, her wonderfully fun partner Melissa, their friend Rose, and Laura. The closest one to my age being near 40. Score. However, it was the best night I've spent in Rehoboth Beach, DE. We had so much fun! I was able to truly be myself...and express my opinions, likes, dislikes, etc...and not be looked at like I'm younger than they are. Or less experienced than they are. They treat me like an equal. Like I'm just a smart (even if I don't have the years like they do...LOL). I never ONCE felt like they saw me as a child, or "youngen". In fact, I'm pretty sure I'm still convinced we are all the same age. To me, that was a huge gift.
Often times, people look at me and others in my generation, as if we have two-heads. I'd rather blog than speak in public, I learn all my news from twitter and not a printed paper, I talk to my friends via facebook and not on the phone (because it's free...just to name one reason), and because I still "have a lot to learn".
I get that I have a lot to learn. I'm 25. I make mistakes. I don't know exactly where my place is in the world yet. No one depends on me but myself. I get sudden urges to jump out of planes, go to a foreign country, or eat a tub of ice cream. I can fix my computer without calling a tech. I laugh at inappropriate comments. I don't know who Debby Boone is. I still like staying out late and laughing with friends. And yes, I'm banned from the Piggly Wiggly in Starkville, MS. But because I'm young...or because I have a different approach to communication...or because I do things differently...does not mean I'm less. It doesn't mean I'm not capable.
So, my awesome night of touring Rock Band III with my 3 favorite Rehoboth-ites did more for me than just cheer me up and make me laugh. It truly lifted my spirit. It closed an age gap...that I have been feeling way too strongly in the last 7 months. It gave me more confidence than I've had in a while. And it definitely worked my right calf muscle, trying to hit the pedal on the Wii drum.
We need to be more inter-generational. There is a lot to learn from each one...

Day Nine: Peaceful Fighters

2011-02-11T15:47:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure I will be able to convey, in this blog, how incredibly grateful I am for the thousands and thousands of peaceful fighters I have been following for 17-18 days in Egypt. Wow.
Peaceful Fighters. Sounds like an oxymoron, doesn't it? Probably because for years upon years, we have been shown no example OTHER than non-peaceful fighting. Battlefields, guns, knives, fists, bombs, hijackings, etc. And somewhere, in the middle of all of this loud, non-peaceful, violent fighting, there have been voices. Voices wanting peace. Voices saying there are other ways. But they've been quieted. Told they are un-patriotic, or naive. Told this was the only way to get where we wanted to be, and we should be thankful. Well. I am thankful for where we are...but right now...I am so grateful to be able to say that those quiet voices, preaching peace and understanding - telling us to put down guns and find another way - they have overcome. Those voices overcame in Egypt today. And that gives me hope. And an added kick to my step.
So to all of you who ache over the violence we see. All of you who yearn for the day when we stop killing each other. All of you who have been working to create peace where you live. Hold on to this day. Watch the celebration of the people in Tahrir Square. It got sticky. It got scary. And it was not perfect. But they pushed on. And they did so with as much peace and confidence as they could. Hang in there...peace mongers!

Day Eight: Shared Obsessions

2011-02-10T12:35:00.000-05:00

All of us have at least ONE thing that we are totally obsessed with. Whether it's a piece of technology, a type of food, a certain scent, a person (careful not to be creepy...just sayin'), or some kind of entertainment. Whatever it is, we all know we have it. Probably more than one.
I don't really hide my obsessions. In fact, most of the time it's just plain obvious. Like facebook. I can't pretend I'm not obsessed, because the fact I'm always on proves me wrong. I don't hide that I'm obsessed with flip flops either. One look in my closet, and all bets are off. I also consistently watch specific TV shows. I own every season of Friends on DVD and can kick Trista Boling's butt at trivia (hee!), my wonderful older cousin got me hooked on Grey's Anatomy....so not only am I planning Thursday evenings around it's showing, but I'm also watching Hulu and catching all the seasons. Backwards (don't ask).

But last night, I realized another wonderful thing in my life: a shared, family obsession with Law and Order SVU. Strange, I know. It's a heavy show...often with content in it that can be rather upsetting and triggering. But, none the less, every Wednesday night (at 10/9c), I tune in to NBC and pull out the phone for an hour of intense drama and lots of texting. Why? Because ALL MY FAMILY is sitting, watching the same show...and we are all in constant communication about what is going on. Some of you are probably rolling your eyes and thinking, okay kid, get a life (I have one by the way...problem solved). But, I love it. My family lives all over the US. We see each other, maybe, twice a year. But one night each week we are all in communication and bonding over something that takes us out of our daily lives...and into a realm of non-reality.
It's always a good feeling when you are not the only one that is "obsessed" or "caught up" in something, isn't it? Almost like a validation, telling you that it's okay to really like something. It's okay to want to leave reality for an hour each night...and slip into another place (even if it's dark). It's okay if you update facebook a lot, because people actually get worried when you do not. And it's okay to admit these things, because chances are, you are not alone.
So. Today, I am grateful for shared obsessions. Because we all have them.

Day Seven: Roomy Showers

2011-02-09T09:59:00.000-05:00

So, I've skipped two days: many apologies. I'm keeping this at Day Seven, in hopes of catching up at some point. Now, on to today's topic: Roomy Showers.

Yes, that's right. Roomy showers. Or showers with room, if you prefer. What is the requirement for a shower to be roomy, you may ask? One needs to be able to shift around, without knocking over bottles and shave one's legs without needing to be a gymnast. Many of you may be confused as to why in the world I would be grateful for this. It's because for about 5 years, most of the showers in my place of residence were CUBES. And by cubes, I mean no bigger than a 2.5 x 2.5 foot square. Girls, have you ever tried to shave your legs in a space that you can't move in? Yeah...miserable and causes way to many cuts. Not to mention how frustrating it gets when every time you go to rinse your hair...or merely turn around, you knock something over! Maybe some people can get the hang of it, but after years of this, I came to discover I am not flexible and need a bit more room to shower. Hence my thanksgiving for today: a reasonable sized shower!!!!!

Showers should be able to refresh you, relax you, and help you smell better. Not piss you off and cause the need for deep breathing. So I consider myself very lucky to, even temporarily, have a reasonable sized shower to use. And the lack of cuts on my legs agree. The only participant that probably is not thankful is the Band-Aid company, as their stock may have dropped a tad.

Day Six: Hugs

2011-02-06T15:06:00.000-05:00

So, I am emotionally exhausted today...and not much in the mood to write. But, I feel like these are the exact times in which this challenge should be beneficial. So, I'm writing something short: but from the heart.

I'm thankful for hugs. Lots of hugs. I'm thankful for happy hugs, quick hugs, I'll miss you hugs, it will be okay hugs, and the long hugs when all you want to do is cry. I'm thankful for hugs. And I'm thankful, that even when I feel very lonely, I can usually get a hug from someone. We should all be more willing to hug. We dont need to attack them with hugs, because sometimes we do not want to be touched. However, I think we should be more willing to see someone upset and give them a hug. Because today, that was and is exactly what I need. Thank you for hugs.

Day Five: Capes and Tiaras

2011-02-05T15:31:00.000-05:00

Yes. You read that right. Capes and Tiaras. But not your stereotypical superman cape and diamond, sparkly tiaras. No. I'm grateful for my hot pink cape, that could be used as a wrap, and my plastic, beaded, furry, pink tiara that I recevied last night. Let me explain:

You see, life is made of constant choices. When to get up, whether or not to get work done, what to eat, should I be nice to this person, what do I want to study, where should I live, what job do I want, etc. You get the picture. Some decisions we make are small, like what's for lunch. Others are a bit more imapactful, like whether or not to help the elderly woman with her groceries. Then there are the big guns: do I take this job? Do I move somewhere else? How do I get to where I'm happy and making the biggest impact?

So, I recently made one of those big-gun decisions. And last night, I went to a dinner party with some people who have been very special to me while in Rehoboth. We had a great time. But they "presented" me with a little gift. A plaque that read "I am fairly certain that given a cape and a nice tiara, I could save the world." Love it! THEN, with the plaque came an awesome hot pink cape and a very nice, fluffy tiara that I wore the rest of the night.

Some may think those are silly items. But they symbolize so much more. To me, that tiara and cape tells me that I have people who believe in me. They believe in my mission in life. They believe in my ability to get where I want to be. And they believe that I will be able to make changes in this world. And that is why, today, I have never been more grateful for a hot pink cape and a fluffy, plastic, beaded, pink tiara.

Day Four: The Gas Light

2011-02-04T13:39:00.000-05:00

Ok. So I'm side-tracking today from the list I made when I originally started my challenge. Why? Because today I'm grateful for something I failed to put on my list last week: the gas light in my car.

I am really no good at maintanance work of any kind. I've failed countless times at unclogging toilets, managed to break multiple light bulbs while trying to change them, and probably spilled gallons of windshield washer fluid trying to make it in that little opening under the hood of my car. This is a fact about me I've come to accept. I have many gifts and talents...but maintanance work is not one of them. Not only am I not good at it, but I usually just don't pay attention. I feel that the things in my life will just work when I need them...and I usually learn the hard way over and over again that I have to actually do something to make them work. No good.

So today, as I was driving to get my hair done, I noticed it took a bit longer to start my car than normal. But I just figured it was due to the cold. Ha. Then, as I'm leaving the hair place...I finally look down, and notice my gas light. Shining brightly in my face. And the red stick on a big, capital "E". Woops. So I make my way to the 7-11 downtown, to find they no longer have gas!! WHAT?!?!?! So, I had to get back on the highway, and find the Wawa. I was very frustrated...and pretty nervous about running out of gas in the middle of the road...but I made it.

So. Today, I am grateful for my gas-light. And the fact it comes on with a good 20 more miles of driving on my gas tank...because even though I SHOULD pay more attention, I normally dont. So my gas-light keeps me out of trouble.

Day Three: Faithful Hearts

2011-02-03T11:26:00.000-05:00

There are a lot of conflicting views about how involved people should be on the internet. I mean, nothing you put on the internet is REALLY protected, if you think about it. But, there are so many good things that come from it. It's instant information for whatever you need, directions at the drop of a hat, and ways to stay connected to people you are miles and miles away from.

But there is one aspect that I am particular grateful for today: and that is the ability to be in community through the internet. Most of my readers have read about the Joyful Heart Foundation, so you know how I love it. They have a facebook page, in which people are able to share in a community of fellow survivors and supporters of many horrible things. Through that facebook community, I have come to know three ladies so very well. I've only ever met one of them in person, but that doesn't mean I'm less connected to the other two. My friend Cate lives all the way in Chicago, but that hasn't stopped us from forming a friendship and support system. We have been able to share stories, ways of coping, funny moments, and join in political fights together...because we were open to the idea of community via internet. And this winter, we even battled crazy snowstorms together. Not only were we open to this, but JHF created the channel in which we were able to create this community together. I cannot even begin to describe the comfort that comes with knowing that these 3 ladies are just a quick message away. And that I am just a quick message away from them.

So today, I am grateful for my fellow Heats. Because we are strong women...but when we stand together, we are unstoppable.

Who do you have in your life that makes you feel unstoppable and strong? Give thanks for them today.

Day Two: A Delectable Liquid Treat

2011-02-02T11:49:00.000-05:00

As I stated in my introduction to this challenge, I am striving to not have all of these blessings be too serious. So, since yesterday was a sentimental one, today will be....GINGER ALE!

I am so incredibly glad that someone invented Ginger Ale. It is, by far, the most delicious beverage to ever hit my taste buds. It's the perfect mixture between a healthy, soothing spice and the addition of a bubbly carbonation. Unlike many carbonated beverages, it's quite refreshing. And Ginger Ale is always there, no matter what your need may be!
-When you are sick, Ginger Ale is there to soothe your stomach and give you nourishment, despite your inability to retain food.
-When you are stressed, the sweet taste of the ginger is there to calm your nerves...and give you a moment to breathe.
-When you need to make a quick party beverage, Ginger Ale is there to mix with sorbet and have everyone at your gathering going nuts! Or, if not the sorbet fan...add many flavors such as cranberry, cherry, or even green tea to spice up the usual taste.

I guess the only thing Ginger Ale cannot offer you is caffeine. Which is why I should probably make a quick note and say I'm also grateful for coffee.

I'm sure you are thinking it's a bit odd that I blogged about Ginger Ale today. However, when we are counting our blessings and being grateful, we must include the small things. Some days are going to be really difficult in life...and we may not always be able to find the obvious blessings. So, always keep a list of the tiny blessings in your life, such as Ginger Ale, so you will never live a moment feeling like there is nothing to be grateful for.

Day One: The Anna Surprise

2011-02-01T12:13:00.000-05:00

When I tell people I have a baby sister who is 11, they always look at me funny at first. I guess it's not totally common to have a 25 year old tell you her sister is in 5th grade. But, that is my life! Anna was born when I was 14. Yes. The midst of awful teenage-dom. But. Anna is the coolest 11 year old on the planet. End of story. And, the sad part is, she thinks I'M the coolest person on the planet. Do any of you have someone like that? Who looks up to you, no matter what you are doing or what you have done? They always want to be like you. Even if you haven't seen them in 5 months, they still tell everyone they know about who you are, what you are up to, and the next time you get to see them. They tell you all their secrets...but then ask you if you are mad or if you still like them...because it's that important to them. They pick up on all your sayings. That is what Anna is to me. She is my mini-me. And I am so incredibly blessed to have such an awesome mini-me. Because not only is she an awesome sister, but she is blooming into an incredible young lady. She speaks her mind (even in the middle of the spelling bee!), she is always concerned when someone is sad, and she gives the BEST HUGS EVER!

I think, though, what makes this even more special, is the fact that having her in my life, makes me want to be the best person I can possibly be. I love my baby sister so much, and if she is looking to me to be her example, then I better do a kick-ass job of it...because my sister deserves to have the best role model life can offer.

So, that being said, I'm grateful for Anna. How she cheers me up, makes me laugh, calls me insane, but loves me no matter what. And I'm grateful that she looks up to me, because it makes me a better person...knowing I have such an awesome little person following behind me.

Who in your life always encourages you to be a better person...whether they know it or not? Be grateful for them today.

A February Challenge

2011-01-31T09:57:00.000-05:00

The Joyful Heart Foundation does something online called "Things We're Thankful for Thursdays". It's my favorite day on facebook, because I am called to think about the good things in life AND I get to read thousands of other people's blessings as well. This is probably one of the main reasons I am in such better moods on Thursdays than any other day. So....
I've been challenged to make the month of February all about being grateful for blessings in life. Really, I should be making this every month, but I'm going to step it up a few notches and hopefully inspire some gratefulness in others too. My plan is to write daily about a particular blessing in my life. Some days may be deep and sentimental and others will probably be lighter and funny. But the point is to help me realize the many things in life that I may take for granted...and to try and inspire all of my readers to do the same. You may not want to blog daily, but I'd love for you to comment on my blog about something you are grateful for, as well!
It's not February, so this will not be the first post....but I will say that the first thing I want to tell you I'm grateful for is the ability to blog about my blessings. See you tomorrow!

Christmas and/or Advent?

2010-12-21T10:31:00.000-05:00

Around this time of year, the same things begin to happen. It gets colder outside, we usually get the first snowfall, darkness comes earlier but gets over-shadowed by copious amounts of Christmas lights, stores are too crowded, people shove each other in the isles, and it takes me an hour just to go get a loaf of bread and half a dozen eggs. Yep. It's the holiday season. I sound like a grinch, right? Well, maybe I am.
See, I love Advent. I love Advent services. I love lighting one more candle each week, in anticipation of a celebration of Jesus' birth. I love hearing the miracles that take place around this time, because people's hearts seem to get bigger. I love watching little kids do plays, re-enacting the manger scene or the Peaceable Kingdom. I love how people actually talk about peace on earth this time of year, as if that was what God wanted all along (btw...IT IS!).
BUT. I get frustrated. Because this is the ONLY time of year some people talk about peace. And they talk about peace in the same breath that they get frustrated because they haven't gotten little Susie the newest, latest video game. And we all know little Susie won't enjoy this season unless she gets it. In the same breath, people are SCREAMING at the world to keep Christ in Christmas, yet also talking about the extensive list of superficial presents they must buy in order for this season to be special. We want to make sure the parade we watch is still named the "Christmas" parade, as opposed to "Holiday" so our Jewish friends who celebrate a holiday this same time of year can feel included, yet on Christmas morning instead of thinking of Christ, we tear into presents...then get on the phone and compare who got what.
I recently read a post that had this quote "It's like we opened the gift of the incarnation and said THIS IS NOT ENOUGH!" The fact that we have the best present of all, JESUS, is not enough for us, is it? We need the lights, the gifts, the food, and a parade to have a specific name in order for this season to be special. Wrong. This season is special, because Jesus came in to the world...in a stable. The most humble of places. It wasn't announced and broadcasted across the globe. There were no noise-makers, photographers, or any other fluff. It was marked by a star. A natural ball of gas that lights up our sky. And Jesus didn't have political figures and the public acknowledging his presence and awesome-ness. So why do we feel we need to abandon Jesus' teachings of loving our neighbors, showing grace, mercy, and love and being humble around this time of year? To me, it should be the opposite.
So, this year, I wish you all a very humbled holiday season, no matter what you are celebrating. May we look into our hearts, find the peace within, and share it with the world. May those of us who celebrate this holiday because of the birth of our Savior, wake up on Christmas morning and do just that. May our minds be open to possibilities beyond our wildest imaginations, because that is how God works.

Thanksgiving

2010-12-02T10:37:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving is, by far, my favorite holiday. In fact, in my opinion, it's the only holiday Americans have managed to keep at it's original purpose. Maybe, since the purpose is the eat lots of food and be thankful, we can get that right. As opposed to other holidays where we buy ridiculous amounts of crap while thousands of children die of starvation. Or spend the day hunting for colored plastic eggs, instead of celebrating the fact the Jesus has overcome evil, and that we, too, will overcome one day. Or it could just be the fact that I work in the church business, so the only holiday that does not require extra amounts of work hours and stress is, in fact, the non-Christian identified American holiday of Thanksgiving. No matter the reason, Thanksgiving is my favorite.

For me, it's so easy to get depressed every day. Every day, in my line of work, I sit with families who are losing their home, or I visit people in a hospital who may never walk out the doors again, or I hear the horrors that my kids face day-to-day being bullied for who they are, or I visit with those who come in our doors to warm up and shower, because they live in the small wooded area in Rehoboth due to financial struggles. These things go on DAILY here at Epworth. Daily. Not on occasion, or when the moon is aligned differently. Daily.

So, on Thanksgiving, it's helpful to pull myself into a world of being grateful. Grateful that I have amazing friends to go to a parade with. Thankful that my little cousin and aunt were able to come visit with me for a week. Thankful that I have an amazing family on Long Island that can brighten even the worst day for me, or when I'm not bright, can sit with me while I cry. Grateful that even though I get incredibly stressed out with my responsibilities, I have a paycheck coming in regularly. Thankful that even though I can't afford health-care, so far, I'm pretty healthy and have not needed it. Grateful that I am in the small percentage of worldly citizens that get enough to eat and can stay relatively warm at nightly. Thankful that even though I see the horrors of the world, that I have the time, energy, and resources to fight back to the best of my ability. And most of all, so incredibly thankful for the HOPE that I find in serving God...seeing miracles happen...and knowing that one day...justice and peace will reign.

So, there is my musing for what Thanksgiving does for me. I wish we could have more that one a year, because quite frankly, even in the worst of situations, we could all use a day to sit back and think of what we all have to be grateful for. And if we can't think of anything, remember that you are still alive and breathing and coherent enough to be thankful...which is reason enough.

Peace and Shalom to you all during this season.

Healthcare?

2010-11-03T14:37:00.000-04:00

Ok, I'm going personal and political for this post: consider that your warning.

I am a born citizen of the United States. I am 24 years old, about to turn 25. I have completed a Bachelors degree with two minors and a Masters degree. Both from stand up and competitive schools (esp the Masters). I now have a full-time job, in which my primary purpose is to help people and bring them closer in their spiritual walks. And I do not have health coverage. My health care option would require me to pay an amount out of pocket that I cannot afford. I'm not even close to affording it. Even if I sold my car, no longer had insurance payments, didn't turn on my heat this winter, and ate ramen noodles, I still could not afford it.

I am saying this, because many of my friends and people I know are very against health care reform. And probably because they feel the government will take their money and give care to those who they don't think deserve it. And while I disagree with that point as well, I'm not sure people understand that this health care reform is helping people like me continue to have coverage as well. Until I am 26, I can have basic coverage under my father's health plan. Buying me another year to save money and/or find other options. For people to go in and overturn health care, would mean taking away my health care...and the health care of many people like me. Who work 10-12 hour days for people. Who have gone through years of education, but have taken jobs that don't pay well but can help make a difference in the world.

I'm not saying that Obama has the right answer...but I am saying that we do need some reform...because this is not right. And I wish people would slow down with their political rants long enough to see that what they are screaming against and saying, is not entirely true. And it's very hurtful to me, because I work my ass off and I am educated..and I STILL don't have health care.

America needs to realize that all people have rights. All people have feelings. But most of all, we are ALL children of God. And we are instructed to care for one another. And that includes making sure that people can have medical attention when they are ill. Or that they can get affordable medication for conditions that they didn't choose to have. And that by saying, "Well, I've worked hard for this and I'm not paying for those who haven't" is not the point, nor is it even true. Because you are implicating that you are better than me. And it's hurtful. So please, just think before you act and speak. And talk to people. Listen to their stories...just...live as Jesus. Please.

Things of Importance

2010-10-10T16:54:00.000-04:00

Recently, I seem to have spawned confusion as to where my sports loyalties lie. Yes, I understand it is rare to see a die-hard SEC fan love TWO schools. That's right, two. But, I am living proof that it is possible. So. Just to clear things up, in case you were worried, here are my sports loyalties...in the order that they rank.

1. Mississippi State Softball (I feel that should be obvious people...)
2. Alabama Softball (once again...obvious)
3. Mississippi State Basketball (Stansbury is the MAN)
4. Mississippi State Football (yes, I know this is the confusing part. It ranks above Alabama for two reasons: one being they are ALWAYS the underdog...and I have a soft spot for those. And two being because I love ringing my cowbell)
5. Alabama Football (I'm going to be honest and say that I love the Tide...but really obnoxious fans sometimes make me want to hate them instead...)
6. Jamaican Bobsledding (come on...shouldn't everyone rank this????)

Passed these 6 rankings....my love and intensity drops off considerably. I am a sucker for the Mets, due to my northern roots....and Georgia softball because they had such a classy showing at the 2009 Women's College World Series. And Lithuania has a basketball team that I check up on occasionally. So. I hope this helps clear up the confusion. Rock on, sports fans!!!

Joyful Heart

2010-10-02T10:17:00.000-04:00

I am reminded constantly that even in our best and most imaginative visions, we are never able to predict where life will take us. It's part of the beauty, mystery, and even scariness of living. We wake up in the morning, with plans in our head, but how often does our day go exactly as we had thought, with no surprises? Mine never do. It's the same way with life. Even just 6 months ago, if someone had told me I would have completed my Master's and have a full-time job, living near the ocean, and have health care...I may have either laughed at you or punched you, depending on the stress level :). But, here I am. Thanks, God.

Along with having this job, I have been getting more involved with something called the Joyful Heart Foundation. JHF was founded in 2006 by Mariska Hargitay, who plays detective Olivia Benson on Law and Order: Special Victims Unit. She began this non-profit in response to all the letters she began to receive from survivors of sexual violence. This organization works to bring healing and empowerment to survivors and to raise awareness to our communities about the horrors of the epidemic. Recently, they have hit the trail on a big issue that has never been approached before: the rape kit backlog. Hundreds of THOUSANDS of rape kits are sitting in storage, untouched and untested. Which means, hundreds of THOUSANDS of rape survivors are sitting, everyday, wondering if justice exists in the world. Wondering if anyone even cares. Does this shock you? Does it bother you? Let me explain what a rape kit is:

After a woman goes through the hell of being assaulted, she can choose to go to the hospital. There, they make you take off all your clothes for evidence, and you are put through a 4-6 hour invasive exam trying to collect anything the perp may have left on you. This includes your hair being plucked and combed (all hair), your mouth being swabbed intensely, vaginal (and other) full exams, a black-light scan - to see what evidence is on your body, pictures taken of your most intimate wounds and areas, and much much more. I explain this in detail, because you may be fortunate enough not to know what an exam entails. But to get the full horror of this backlog, you need to know what these hundreds of THOUSANDS of women were brave enough to do.

Growing up in the church, I was taught many lessons. One being if we did the right thing and followed God, that everything would be ok. Maybe you can see where I am going with this...

When a person makes the brave decision to have a kit done, they do it with the expectation that justice will be closer. That somehow God will follow through (or at least, that is how my mind works). But you see, God follows through when WE follow through. We are here on Earth as God's hands and feet. And when we drop the ball, and let our fellow brothers and sisters down, God may comfort them, but I have yet to see a large gray haired man, come down and pick the ball up. God continues to tell us to do that. So where is the ball falling on this backlog?

Don't let the ball drop in your court. Go to www.endthebacklog.org today, and educate yourselves on how to get involved. 1 in 4 women have had an experience of sexual violence. If you don't think this is close to home, you are probably wrong. And if you don't think you know anyone who has gone through this? Well...you are reading my blog, aren't you? Please, join us in turning TOWARDS this issue. God Bless.

People Watching

2010-09-24T11:28:00.000-04:00

People watching has to be one of my favorite past-times. Not that I have ample amount of time to indulge in this practice, but when I do, it's so great. Take now, for instance. I am in NYC killing some time before attending a fundraiser (which I will blog about later...stay tuned), sitting in the window of a Starbucks, watching people go by. Now, people watching is fun all over...but nothing compares to people watching in NYC. Really. I mean, you must be prepared to see anything. Here are some of my musings, albeit probably pointless, but I'm hoping they will entertain you a bit.

The Beer Guy Before Noon:

It's freaking 11:30am. Why in the world is this guy buying a large can of beer? Not just a regular 12oz can. One of those large 32oz cans. He paid for it in quarters...and he's wearing a bright yellow hat with the word "DUCK" on it. I mean, the sight is hysterical. Now he is doing a happy dance on the street corner, apparently waiting for a walk sign that is already telling him to walk. I can't help but giggle. Now, granted, he probably has quite a story behind him if he is drinking this early in the morning. But I'm clearly not in the mood to people watch deeply...just on the surface :)

The Falafel Guy:

This guy is serious about his falafels. Let me tell you. He is carefully arranging them all on his little metal cart, and seems so excited when someone comes to buy one. In fact, he almost dropped on of them while arranging and I could read the curse words come off his lips. He clearly believes in what he does as a falafel salesperson. Rock on, falafel man. Rock on.

Girl in Pajamas:

I love pajamas...so I feel I have to give a shout-out to the girl who is bravely walking down 5th Ave in her PJ's. I love it. In fact, it makes me want to not be in this cute sundress and in my sweats and flip flops. Really. 5th Ave is full of people dressed up in heels and ridiculous looking outfits that probably cost more than what I make in a month, but hey, pajamas rock too.

The Spit Boy:

Ok, I have to end this with one of the nastiest things I've seen today: Spit Boy. Can't be over 15...and he seems to want to show off his talent. Only, his talent is spitting. But not just any spitting. He spits slowly, so there is a stream from his mouth...and right before it hits the ground, he slurps it back up. AHHH GROSS!!! I mean COME ON! Sure, it's cool when you are, say, 5. But 15? And in the middle of NYC? How many germs does he have now? On top of that, what happens if it touches the ground? Will he still slurp it back up? I tried to watch and see, but I was too discusted, and had to turn away.

Ok. I've bored you enough for now. Stay tuned over the weekend for my post about the Rape Kit Backlog Fundraiser. In the meantime, go people watching and enjoy the diversity around you.

SHALOM

5 Years

2010-08-28T11:06:00.001-04:00

It's hard to believe as I sit here, writing this blog, putting off other work I
have to do, that this time 5 years ago, we all began to panic. A lot.

Hurricane Katrina. Living in the south most of my life, you get used to major storms. Tornadoes, hail, microbursts, and tropical systems. In fact, I remember when I was in elementary school, playing on the beach before a hurricane with no one but my dad and a CNN news crew. (We totall

y got in TV, too!). The news and weather people are infamous for making storms seem much worse than they ever actually are, so all this forecasting for a major Cat 5 storm to demolish us all, almost made us laugh. So, as we were all in church in such exactly 5 years ago, no one was especially panicked about this particular storm.

However, that afternoon, things changed. Quickly. I remember sitting down to do homework, turning on the weather to see when the rain and wind would start, and staring with my mouth wide open. Oh boy, we were screwed. As the day went on, we began to make plans. We went to the store, got plenty of food, candles, matches, batteries, more flashlights, etc, and all piled into Wesley (what, after 4 years became lovingly referred to as our bomb shelter).

We had friends with guitars, board games, and

gas ovens and stoves which would prove to be very helpful. Then the storm slowly began. At first, it wasn't bad. We actually played in it. Until the wind became so strong that it was blowin

g us down, and the police came and said that anyone found outside would be arrested.

Thus began a very very long several hours. Days. Weeks. Months. And years. The power went out, the winds howled, trees creaked and snapped, walls and windows rattled, and of course the bottom floor flooded (as usual). Cell phone service quickly dissolved, so no more calling out. And we just hung out. By candlelight. Singing, praying, and hoping this was not as bad as everyone thought it was going to be. Boy were we wrong.

The eye of the storm passed over: only word can describe that. CREEPY. Silent. Clear. Like

nothing was going on. Other than stuff everywhere.

5 years ago today, life changed as we knew it. Our perspectives, experiences, ideas, everything was all jumbled up in the midst of devastating storm damage. 5 years ago today, began a complete transformation in my ideals. Where my passions were. 5 years ago today, none of us were prepared for the change and impact that about to hit us. Never forget.

Unknown Strength

2010-08-25T16:42:00.000-04:00

I have a sensitive heart, it's true. I may not be openly emotional to the entire world (well, ya know, crying and stuff), but my heart breaks a lot. But there is one thing that always lifts it even in the midst of nothing my grief: and that is wondering where strength comes from. Case and point:

A friend of the family, and a wonderful woman whom I am blessed to know in life has been battling with breast cancer for years. She is in the midst of her 4th recurrence...having chemo everyday...she has 4 young children, and still managed to teach her kindergarten class half of last year. Now, she is currently waiting to go back into surgery to remove 2 brain tumors, in which if they had not been removed, she would not have lasted for more than another 2 weeks. As the world around her seems to fall apart with worry, concern, love, and prayer for her...I checked facebook and her status update? "Is is too early to call tech support at the hospital, I need access to the internet! LOL!" Yes. That's an LOL on the end of that.

I have no idea how she does this. Endure day after day of pain and suffering, facing the hardest things in life, yet...we still get LOL's on her status. That fact, although it brings tears to my eyes, is such an inspiration to me.

It's so easy to get discouraged in life. It's so easy to wallow in all of this horrificness that is the world. We can get caught up, that we forget to smile. That we don't notice this unknown strength that has somehow encompassed our very being. And that, my friends, I can't equate to anything but God. I struggle saying God is good all the time these days...because so many things are messed up. But. When I see the strength and love of others in life's darkest moments...I am reminded that life may not be good. But God, most definitely, is.

Bystander?

2010-08-16T11:50:00.002-04:00

This weekend I went to Washington DC to visit my friends. I love that we are all close-by again. Well, closer than we have been since MSU. Anyways, we went all around DC having a good time...then ended the weekend with a tour of the Holocaust Museum. Now. Some of you may have been, others may have seen movies such as Schindler's List, and you ALL know the history of the Holocaust. But there was a piece to this tour and this story that struck me big time this go around.

There was a quote on the wall, that in summary, says that the Nazi Regime DEPENDED on the silence and indifference of all the millions of bystanders...who whether they thought this was okay or not, did NOTHING to help. In fact, at one point, a bill was brought to the American panel to allow 20,000 Jewish children to come into the country in order to save their lives. It was shot down. 20,000 INNOCENT CHILDREN could have been saved by the US, merely by opening our hearts and doors. But they were not. Many of those children probably ended up perishing...whether in the concentration camps or on the streets after the "liberation".

How many of us are bystanders? I will admit to being one many times. We see a cause on facebook that someone is promoting, we read an article in a paper or magazine trying to get your attention to do something, we hear news stories, etc. We have become SO NUMB and SO SPOILED that we are not even affected by these things anymore it seems. Or if we are, we have told ourselves there is nothing we can do to change.

But there are. You see, the evil in this world is depending on our silence and indifference, so it can prevail. And this bothers me. I forced myself to go through every inch and every video of that museum, as hard and horrific as it was...because I felt I owed it to the victims and survivors to try and experience as much as I could, so that I would never....ever....EVER....be a bystander to evil.

Are you a bystander?

Skydiving

2010-08-10T12:19:00.000-04:00

So, I have had a ton of built up energy, frustration, and emotion recently. And if you follow me on my blog or facebook, you know most of the reasons why. So what is the best way to settle this? I decided it was to jump out of an airplane. That's right. Adrenaline junky, right here. At your service :)

Before the plane takes off, you are instructed on safety, what to do, etc. Then you get your tandum partner and get into suit.

As the plane took off, all I felt was excitement. I Was ready to go. But the plane kept going farther and farther up. 11,000ft ladies and gentlemen. 11,000ft. We were above the clouds. As the door opened, the wind hit your face and people began to go. As I took the leap of faith into the blue sky, all I could feel was amazing adrenaline rushing. As you free-fall, you can pretend to be superman, or a fish, or scream and yell. It was absolutely amazing. Complete trust in someone you just met, to properly pull the cord for the shute...and in God to help you land safely.

Rock on, peeps!

Really World?

2010-08-08T13:02:00.000-04:00

So my last post was definitely a rant. And you know what, nothing got better from there. This rap is now on I-Tunes, and Hugh Hefner is calling out that women ARE sex objects. Wow. No wonder we have such an uphill battle. So many people feel that women no longer have a fight, because they hold high jobs or positions. Or because there are many organizations and activists out there. But I'm here to tell you that is WRONG. Just plain wrong. And society, this past week, over-proved that idea.
1/5 Females are sexually abused in some form by the time they reach the age of 25. How do we have that number? Well I'm not sure about that (because math is not my strong suite), but I can go with these numbers:
Last year it was estimated that 38% of all rapes were reported. That number in 2009 was 95,136. So, if the percentage estimate is right, the number of actual rapes in 2009 is estimated to be 250, 358. That is 685.9 rapes PER DAY. 28.6 rapes PER HOUR, which can be rounded to every 2 minutes. Every 2 minutes. EVERY 2 MINUTES!!!
Now, I don't know about you, but I have to wonder how we estimate the 38% report stat. Probably from overall surveys and such about how many are in therapy for assault or who can actually say they were raped. WHICH IS NOT EVERYONE. So. In reality, these stats I just gave to you from the 2009 reports are the BEST CASE SCENARIO.
Is anyone else feeling alarmed yet? If not, then THAT is a part of the problem itself. But, if you are feeling alarmed, you may feel helpless. Because in a way, we feel there is nothing we can directly do. But there is. It's hard. It's bold. And it seems to be met with such resistance. But it's speaking out. Whether you are a survivor, you know one, or you were just made aware by reading this blog. We have, in our power, the ability to change this problem. These statistics. These numbers. But that is by action. By making people aware that the problem exists and by stating that we will NOT accept these numbers and we WILL make our voices HEARD.
Join a cause: Make a small or large or any size donation to an activist group. Do it in the name of someone you know. Make your voice heard. If you'd like, you can follow my link to my fundraising page. Joyful Heart Foundation is my personal favorite and my commitment, but there are many others out there that you can find. Please. Don't read this and let it get pushed aside. NOW is the time to act. Because in the time you took to read this, at least 3 more women were raped in the US.

http://www.change.org/a_joyful_heart_foundation/projects/fundraising/help_me_make_a_difference

Broken

2010-08-04T22:26:00.001-04:00

So, the world has effectively broken me recently. So much going on, I'm not even sure where to begin.

Let's start with Alabama - and the "fame" of this racist, classist, sexist youtube video that is poking fun at someone's speech and the fact his sister was the victim of an attempted rape. That's right. A video that got over 4 million hits in one day. This angers me to no end. How do people even REMOTELY think ANY of this is funny...or should be turned into a laughing entertainment. Advocacy organizations have been getting behind us more and more...and by networking...we have grown from a few pissed of girls, to an entire band of people trying to work for this cause...and the greater on it represents. The fact that pe

ople do not take rape and sexual assault seriously. No wonder women don't report a crime...or want to talk about it. Because over 4 million people took time out of their day yesterday to laugh at the topic. And whether or not you think they directly did...that is how it comes across to survivors. Trust me on this one. Want to help? Go flag all those horrific videos and spoofs that were made. And email WAFF in Huntsville getting them to take this seriously.

On another note: people's silence and refusal to stand up to some things really gets me. I know that not everyone is an activist...nor do they have to be. But at some point...you gotta put your big girl/boy panties on and DEAL WITH IT.

Now, after the rough two days I've had, I needed something to bring hope. I attend

ed the 3rd West Rehoboth Peace March tonight. Over 100 people joined in a walk from W. Rehoboth, two by two, hand in hand, with lit candles...over a mile to a parking lot where a young boy was beaten to death. People had posters, pictures, and t-shirts all about stopping violence and promoting peace. Prayers were said, songs were sang, and tears were shed. But I needed that glimpse of hope after all that is going on.

The world is killing me right now. Let's do something about this.

"In the end, will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." Dr. MLK Jr.

It's Been a While!

2010-06-29T12:51:00.000-04:00

Greetings to those who are still actually reading my blog! It's been a good 6

months since I've updated, probably because life has been a tad busy. And by

a tad, I mean CRAZY!!!

Let's see. I went from an MDiv/MSW student in January, to a

graduating MA student in about, oh 3 weeks.

I finished up my job at one church only to begin to work an inernship in Newark, NJ with Communities of Shalom (www.communitiesofshalom.org). Then, the next thing I knew, I was thrown into the world of interviews, cover letters, and travelling only to land a job in Rehoboth Beach, DE as a full time Director of Discipleship. Talk about a crazy 6 months. On top of that, Kat had a new baby, Zachary...who is just a bundle of fun,

Friends have begun to take jobs and move away, good-byes have been mixed with celebrations,

and here I am, 2 days away from leaving New Jersey and headed to Delaware. Really? Delaware? I mean, I'm up for adventures and I'll go

anywhere, but I never thought that my new place of residence would be the coast of Delaware. However, it's AMAZING! A real boardwalk, with an amusement park, shops, and great food. Beautiful sand...and the best part? NO SALES TAX! Score. My job? Pretty excited. And nervous. Benefi

ts, personal and sick days, vacation time...is this real? Guess I am growing up! But, a new adventure, non-the-less. Speaking of adventures, my best friend, Alex is on one big one: The World Race. Kind of a mix between the amazing race and a missiontrip? The only way I know how to explain it. Anyhow, I got to spend time with him before he left with was amazing, and I know all of you will join me in praying for him as he travels the world for a year.

Now, to end, I will say that I will try and update sooner than later once I move, however, you are all seeing my track record in updates. I'll get better. Hopefully. Ha. But until then, enjoy this shot of my and my new b

estest Brazilian friend, Lorena :)

New Discovery in Central Park

2009-11-09T08:37:00.000-05:00

So, Emily came up to visit a few weekends ago, and of course that means more time in NYC! It had been about a month since I had ventured from Madison into the mega-city so I was looking forward to some time there. We did some cool things I have yet to do since living here, such as eating at Bubba Gump Shrimp. Why had I not done this before? I love Forest Gump AND seafood. It was grand.

Then we spent lots of time in Central Park. We located Turtle Pond, because Emily loves turtles. THEN we found Shakespeare's Garden. This may just be my new favorite place in the city, but especially in Central Park. It's so quiet, peaceful, and just beautiful. You walk around winding paths with beautiful flowers and plants, then up a flight of stone stairs to a castle-type thing! The castle has lots of lookouts, including one that overlooks Turtle Pond and the softball fields. It's beautiful. We even got to see a wedding take place from the balcony of the castle. It was pretty grand. I plan to revisit there when my wallet allows.

Once again, you never know what new adventures you find in this area. I'll post the Halloween blog soon, but for now, I must stop procrastinating and do school work.

Fun Friends

2009-09-19T16:43:00.000-04:00

I have some pretty awesome friends. We have tons of fun together, whether we venture out into unknown places in the city or just hang around in the apartment building (ya know, like the cast of FRIENDS) and have themed parties. I think I lucked out in the community aspect of life. It's very rich. Here are two prime examples:

For Misty and Michelle's bdays, we went to an awesome restaurant called Cuban Pete's. By far one of my all time favorite places. Great food, great music, great drinks, and just a great time.

There is always room for dancing to the Cuban drums and marracas or even playing them yourselves! But it's the company that I go with that makes the night top my list.

Another example: the annual GV Luau. Dressing all Hawaiian-y and hanging out crammed into one apartment while limbo-ing in the hallway. You don't get much better than that. I mean, come on. But once again, it's the company not the actual event.

While living here in New Jersey, I

have become a member of quite possibly the best community. We laugh, sing, cry, dance, and yell together. We disagree, but talk about it. We don't try to change each other, because we love each other for their unique=ness. We all have different gifts and they are welcomed equally. It's not a conditional community. And that, my blog followers, is one of the main reasons why this place is just so richly blessing my life.

SHALOM

A Great Discovery!

2009-09-09T16:45:00.000-04:00

I found something amazing the other day: The birthplace of organized baseball. Completely on accident. My friends and I were wandering through my favorite place, Hoboken, in search of ice cream, when I noticed on the corner where we were standing was a square with the number 1 on it. We thought that was odd. Then, I noticed in the middle of the intersection, there were bricks in the shape of a giant baseball. That is when we began to look around some more, and notice that all corners were a base and there was a big plaque, talking about the first ever organized baseball game that played in that exact location. Boy was I excited! I LOVE baseball and softball! As we played around, I began to imagine what my life would have been like if one of my biggest passions growing up had never been invented. And it made me sad. I left there feeling very grateful that baseball was formed. Especially in Hoboken, NJ!

Broadway, a Street Church, and Heroes

2009-08-29T11:30:00.001-04:00

I am so bad at updating. So here we go, another action packed update that spans over weeks of time!

This summer, I have seen 3 different Broadway Shows. I went to Mary Poppins with the fam, Shrek with Alex and Jim, and the Little Mermaid with Michelle, Andrew, and Elizabeth. You know, Broadway shows can be pretty expensive if you let them. However, when you live in this area, it takes more than ones income to pay the rent, so we have to do things cheap. Luckily, Broadway knows this and lets those who work for non-profits, churches, or are students, join something called TDF. Then each month they post different shows with tickets for $25. It's perfect for us. I LOVE shows. Love love love them. I think it's because for 3 hours you sit in a fancy theatre, listening to wonderful music about stories, amazing colorful costumes, and for a little bit, you are out of reality and in a magical, musical place. Ah. It's awesome.

This past Sunday, I went into East Harlem with some fun people to go to Dr. Isasi-Diaz's street church. It's a Roman Catholic church that 15 years ago was closed down. Their historic building was locked, and they were all told to go somewhere else. But this group of amazing people realized they had a choice in the matter. So, for 10 years or so, they have had a street church...protesting their closure. They meet on the sidewalk in front of their building: come rain, snow, wind, heat, and cold. It's pretty amazing to worship with them. I admire their drive to save, not the building, but the community they had created within the church, and to show that God shows up, whether or not its a recognized church in a building, or a group of protestors worshipping on an East Harlem Street.

Afterwards, those I drove in with, Michael Christensen, Rebecca Laird, and their daughter Megan, wanted to stay in NYC and wander around. Well, of course I am ALWAYS up for wandering around NYC! So we did. I found a massive body of water in Central Park that I had heard existed, but I never had seen it! It was great! Then we wandered around the Jewish Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, in which Michaelangelo's first painting was being displayed, along with a very interesting Afghanistan exhibit. It's amazing how much culture is found in one area of the world. I just love it.

But one of the big ones: I got to meet one of my heroes in life. Cat Osterman. Cat played softball for the University of Texas, and quickly broke pitching records all over the place. She was named onto the US Olympic team, and just moved high on my list. Her emotions were always composed, she had a strong competitive streak, but most of all, the fame never got to her. She didn't wear mass amounts of makeup on the field (small pet-peeve) and always stayed afterwards to sign balls and take pictures in a laid back setting. So, off I went to Pennsylvania to see her pro team play to Philly team. Oh it was so awesome. A dream come true. Afterwards, I got to meet her, get my picture, and get a signed ball that I had caught. Truly an amazing opportunity. These things don't happen often :)

I believe that is all for now. If anyone has any ideas for upcoming adventures....let me know!

Peace

Kayaking in the Hudson

2009-08-16T18:34:00.000-04:00

My life has been pretty hectic lately. I work 3 jobs trying to pay bills, I took a life altering trip to the Philippines in June, I moved into a new apartment, I am getting ready to begin year 2 of a 4 year dual-masters program, and I recently returned to the southland to be a bridesmaid in a wedding. So, needless to say, my stress level has stayed high. In fact, there are not many moments in my life when the stress level isn't high. The more I pondered this and the more advice I sought...the more the answer became clear. I do not know how to relax myself. I know how to have fun...but I never relax. So, yesterday I went on a quest to relax. I did not accomplish it one bit, however, I did do something incredibly awesome. I kayaked in the Hudson River...along the Manhattan and Hoboken, NJ skylines...for free.

It was nothing short of spectacular, breathtaking, and a wee bit difficult to manage the harsh currents the river produces. The wind blew threw my hair and the sun bounced off my skin. It was truly awesome. I realized that I may not have been relaxed, but my mind was at ease doing something that stimulated me. So what if I can't relax by going to spas or just laying around...I think I am still a healthy person by doing active things that take my mind off of everyday issues. I enjoyed my day of "relaxation" and I'm looking for my next free Saturday to kayak again!

More reflection

2009-07-26T20:23:00.000-04:00

Here is a piece of an email I answered recently, asking my how my idea of missions has been broadened and changed after my trips to Lithuania, Latvia, the Philippines, and living in a very culturally diverse city.

You bring up an interesting topic for me...which I have been reflecting on for some time. The idea of "missions" can be a very broad term, and taking in many different ways. At this point in my life, through my experiences...I think the term mission needs to be re-defined. So many times, we go on trips to "fix" things and help out. Going into a place, thinking we have the right way to do it and answers...therefore fixing their problem. I think we have learned over the years, that we do not have the answers we think we do, especially in America. Sending a group to the Philippines to build, say, a roof in these slums, would be merely a band-aid...and possibly not welcomed by the community...because they dont want a roof. They are fine with their trash (however, I would like to see their situation become a little more humane, lol). It's all they know. What they want, is recognition. To be actual people and citizens (most do not have birth certificates). They want to be listened to and loved for who they are and how they live.

I have come to a very deep appreciation for the diversity in the world. Yes, I want to end poverty...I think much justice work still needs to come, however, what justice is may be understood differently. We see it as materialistic. These people, view it as interaction...citizenship.

..recognition...being treated as an equal individual to you and I, whether they live in trash or in a huge house in America.

Missions should always start with relationships...and learning what the people in a certain area want and need. They do know better than we do. There is also a huge political side to mission work...because a band-aid won't last forever. It's my core belief at this moment, through my travels and where I live, that we need to be citizens of the world. Through understanding, acceptance, and a little humility, we will be able to be in solidarity and therefore begin to sway what happens.

Small Reflection

2009-07-18T18:51:00.000-04:00

I just returned from the Philippines. I don't know much to say. But here's a stab at it:

Words don't get there. People live in trash. Dead animals float down the same river they get their water supply from. The government doesnt care. They don't have birth certificates. They live in fear of being relocated or just wiped out entirely. Everything is so unstable. Bombs and raids happen more than we can count. And here I am, in Madison, NJ. I have a car, clean water, etc. And what am I doing to help those people? They are no longer faces in a picture. They are people that I love. People I hugged, laughed with, ate with, ran around with. People who are God's people. And I am here now. Not doing anything but writing letters to the government, who sure as hell isn't doing anything but fixing our economy. Not to mention, the US and their whole "lets go control the world and make them like us" for the past 8 years has not helped any of them in the Philippines. It's just made it worse. Ask them. They'll tell you. So what am I doing? I feel completely worthless. Like I'm letting God down. I know what Jesus would be doing. I just can't figure out how to get there...

My head is spinning. Sorry for the downer entry.

Moving Susie: Thelma and Louise!

2009-05-31T12:23:00.000-04:00

The last week, I embarked upon a great adventure with my close friend, Susie. The school year had ended, and she had graduated and accepted a job placement at a church in Baton Rouge, LA. So, me being the good friend that I am :), drove all the way from Madison, NJ to Baton Rouge with her and all her stuff. It was a grand adventure. Marked with many road-side food stops, laughable songs and wrong turns, horrible smelling pig farms in Pennsylvannia, finding the cleanest bathrooms EVER in the same stop as the biggest piece of beef jerky ever seen by our eyes,

a stop in Decatur, AL to see my baby sister rock in softball,

and a long, boring ride through south Mississippi...into her home. We realized, during our 26 hour trek together, that it was a neat way to end the year and transition into new places in our lives. She was able to reflect upon her 3 years as I was able to look forward to my next one.

Once we arrived in Baton Rouge, her children greeted me very excitedly and immediately began to plan our time together. We went kayaking, out to eat, walking around, got pedicures, went to the top of the LA state capitol, which is the tallest capitol in the US, ate crawfish, and enjoyed being together.

I have never been good with goodbyes. In fact, most of the time I try to avoid them...figuring if I don't say an emotional goodbye, I won't feel that loss as much. But there was no avoiding this one...it was happening. Too fast for us to realize. As I went through security, to get on the plane home, without one of the best friends I've had, I was quite sad, and often looked back to see her and her children very sad as well. But then, as I cleared security, and looked back one last time, through all our tears, I saw her there, at home with her family, and me headed back to my new home...a place I love...and realized that this is how things should be. We are both where God wants us, where we are supposed to be. Goodbyes are sad. Some more than others, but to steal a cheesy line and editing it a tad..."Where one beautiful thing may end, another will begin"

Brooklyn Bridge, Ethiopian Food, and The Cloisters

2009-04-22T17:38:00.000-04:00

The latest in my adventures included a fun-filled weekend spent in the great boro of Manhattan. Saturday was beautiful! Sunny, 70's, and a light breeze. So a group of us Drewids headed into Manhattan to walk to Brooklyn Bridge and in search for some kind of non-European ethnic food. The walk across the bridge is breathtaking. You have amazing views of the NYC skyline, the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn, the East River, and the insane traffic flying under you. It's truly an experience that I recommend to all!

I will say, that the experience was made even better by the company I kept. I've learned throughout my first year of seminary that the community that we form is unlike any other. Friendships and fellowships run deep, connections are pure and tightly wound, and fun times are made even MORE fun because we are all losing our minds together!

After we walked the bridge, we were led by a native city friend to an Ethiopian restaurant at Washington Square. Oh man. It was so amazing. It's quite possibly moving to my top three favorite types of food. Everyone orders what they want, then it ALL comes on this one big plate on top of this sponge-like bread. You then tear the bread and pick up the meat you want, add the veggie, pick your sauce, and enjoy a little piece of Ethiopian Heaven. Yes. It's that good.

The next day, I (along with the head pastor) took a group of 4th-7th graders back into the city to visit the Cloisters. It's a branch of MOMA that is dedicated to Medieval and Religious Artwork.

It was kind of cool to wander around in what felt like a European Castle in the middle of this mega-city. Most of the art and symbols fascinated me. There was a room filled with Unicorn Tapestries that were GORGEOUS! They depicted the life of Christ using a unicorn. I was amazed by the detail and time that went into these things made so long ago.

But of course, I had to get angry at something in the middle of this. There was a dog at the foot of the woman's tomb stone. Yes, it's supposed to mean Loyalty and Companion to man, but I just really don't think that's my(or any other woman's) main purpose in life. Please do not ever consider putting a dog at my feet when I die. I will come back and haunt you. I'm so serious.

So, there is a small snap-shot at my latest adventures. I look forward to being done with my first year of seminary very soon. This means a summer filled with fun things to write to you about. But for now, I'm probably signing off until my last final is turned in. Peace.

Good Friday Reflection

2009-04-10T16:40:00.000-04:00

So, it is "Good Friday" as many are calling it these days. But I must admit, that I struggle with the naming of this day very much. Yes, I get the fact that in the end, Easter, it is good and Christ died to save us all from our sins. However, in order to get to that good place, bad things had to happen. Jesus was tortured and beaten. His hands and feet were nailed to a piece of wood. Thorns were forced upon his head. He was spit on, made fun of, and shown no respect. He was left out to dry. That, to me, does not make for a Good Friday. For now, I will call it Dark Friday. Because to me, this event is dark, until Easter comes.

In life, we have cycles. The majority of us have experienced a Dark Friday. Some have had more than one. Some last a day, a week, a month, or years. Some people are never able to make it to Easter. We do not know why these things happen. We try to come up with explanations, but they never suffice.

Today, my 9 year old sister is experiencing quite possibly, her first "Dark Friday". I got a call saying that a close friend of our family's died this morning. Her name is Judy. She was such a wonderful friend to my sister. Sent her cards and money and presents. They spent weekends together. She came and ate lunch with Anna at school and sat by her in church. Today, my little sister is devastated. It is her "Dark Friday". She does not understand that the other side is light. And for me to prematurely state that to her is probably damaging to her psyche. My sister needs to work through her "Dark Friday" in order to experience the "Good" of Easter. I wish I could turn it into "Good Friday" for her, but alas, I cannot. I can just pray and trust that her Easter day is coming. However, this is because I have had my own "Dark Fridays" and I do understand that Easter is what comes next.

As I checked cnn.com today as usual, I saw SO MANY negative headlines. People dying in fires in Texas, death because of tornadoes in Arkansas, shooting in Michigan, and 5 more soldiers died in Iraq. And that was just today, in one hour of updates on CNN. That does not count the tornadoes earlier this week/month, the shootings in NY and Alabama, the other soldiers, the huge Earthquake in Italy. Then past death, look at the statistics of violence that occurs to people...or people losing jobs and homes. Children starving. I'd say all these things make for a "Dark Friday" circumstance, wouldn't you? How many of these people understand that there is an Easter around the corner? Or, if they do, is that what is on their mind at the moment of pure darkness? I'm not entirely sure. In my experience, I would say no.

So to me, this idea that Jesus being beaten, tortured, and nailed to a cross is not the marking of a "Good Friday." Because, in the context of that time, those people did not know Easter was coming. They didn't get it. Just like the millions of people experiencing a "Dark Friday" right now. It is hard to see the Easter. So to call this "Good Friday" is not a good effort to bring the reality of life and what happened into play.

What we CAN do, is acknowledge this dark day. The horridness of what Christ had to go through, in order to get to Easter. This is a dark day, not a good day. However, we do know that Easter is around the corner and that this "Dark Friday" will RESULT in something GOOD. We must wait for that time to come. It is okay to live in "Dark Friday" and wait for Easter. But do not miss when Easter comes. For it is a beautiful thing.

I am waiting on Easter to come. I do not know how long I will wait, nor does my sister, or millions of other people, however I trust Easter will come. Until then, we just live with our "Dark Friday" in the hope of a "Good Easter".

Catch Up

2009-04-10T14:47:00.000-04:00

So, you are all seeing how bad I am at New Year's Resolutions. School and life have gotten a tad intense, hence the large break in my postings. I'll try to do better, I promise. Let's play a little catch up, shall we?

I went with two girlfriends to a showing of Vagina Monologues in Newark back in February for V-Day. It's a very empowering performance. Usually in February, March and April you can find a performance, granted they are more numerous in certain areas of the country. This year, the money raised went to the women of Congo and towards liberation for them. It is already April, but if you have not been to a performance this year, I highly encourage you to attend one.

My next adventure was not anywhere near the state of New Jersey. I went to New Orleans over Spring Break and it was amazing. Crawfish, steamboats, sunshine, and I even got sunburned! Not to mention, I was there with my best friends...whom I still miss an incredible amount. We ate beignets, played on Mardi Gras floats, made fun of Jacob, and wandered around the Mississippi Gulf Coast with Erica. I got to eat REAL BBQ, catfish, fried okra, and crawfish. Twas a great adventure.

Oh, before New Orleans, I was in Starkville for a few days, in which I saw a strange but great occurance. "Walk a Mile in Her Shoes" is an event in which males walk a mile in high heels to raise money and awareness about the violence women experience on a daily basis. My friend, Jim, is now my hero, because he participated in that walk. The best part, was that he did not know I was going to be in town, so he had planned on carrying my picture with him...but then I just showed up and it was grand.

My next adventure that I did not write about, was "Earth Hour." This started in Sydney, Australia, and it challenges everyone in the world to turn their lights out for an hour one day. 8:30-9:30pm in your own time zone, so its a ripple effect. We decided to drive into NYC to see how well we did during Earth Hour. They turned off all the bridges, Empire State building, and jumbotrons in Times Square. It was significantly darker during that hour than a normal nighttime hour. It was cool to see people actually participating in trying to better the earth and conserve energy. Hopefully it made people aware that we do not need to use as much energy as we consume on a daily basis and that if we cut back, maybe we can stall the complete crash we will experience at some point.

THEN...for the big one...I drove down with some friends last weekend for the Cherry Blossom Festival in DC. It was AMAZING! I'm not sure words can explain just how awesome. It was so great to see signs of spring after a long winter. Not to mention, I had never been to DC, so to see the Washington Monument, Capital, White House, Lincoln Memorial, and all those things were somewhat surreal. It was 60 and sunny out. Man, it was just one of the best days I have had in a while. I highly suggest for people to visit our nation's capital. Especially in the spring, if you can. It's great!

Happy Spring to you All! I will try to update more frequently.

Harlem and President Obama

2009-01-20T18:59:00.001-05:00

Well everyone, my latest adventure, as many would assume, had something to do with the past two days. Let's start with Monday, shall we.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr Day. The day before we swear in the first African American President. It seemed like the perfect day to go tour Harlem! So I did! Took the subway up to W 125th street, or MLK drive. Got off, and started wandering with my map. It was lots of fun! I loved the people in Harlem! On every block, someone was saying hello or asking me what I was looking for. I had been disappointed that I was not able to book a tour, but the people on the street took care of that for me! Everywhere I went, someone had a story. I went to see Bill Clinton's office, stood on the corner of Malcom X Dr and MLK drive, saw Obama headquarters, walked past quite a few churches, that also had amazing stories. Harlem was awesome. Even went by a basketball court! Unfortunately, too much snow to play, but it was still cool. I plan to go back soon, for some soul food, more stories, and maybe a church service!

Today. The Inauguration. Man. So, those of you who know me, know I love to go do random things. The hardest part about today, was the fact I did NOT get in the car and go to DC. However, if I couldnt make it to DC, NYC was definitely the place to be! I headed off to Times Square, to meet friends and strangers, and watch the festivities. Free flags and buttons were handed out. People were decked out, head to toe, in red white and blue. Some guy even covered his bike in ribbons and balloons! We stood in barracades on one of the concrete islands...FRONT ROW...to watch the gigantic CNN screen set up in the middle of thousands of people. Chants and cheers! Hugs from people you don't know! And people say New Yorkers are not friendly...HA! I got more hugs in Times Square than I have in a long time! Ah, it was definitely an awesome adventure for me. Everyone was talking with each other...I met so many new friends today by standing frozen in one place than I could have imagined. But yes, my friends, it was 20 degrees. By the time I got back on the train, I had no feeling in my fingers and toes. I can tell you this....it was incredibly worth it. Gotta love Times Square parties!

Disclaimer: (My first few adventures have been very low key, due to budget reasons. Rest assured. There will be even more awesome ones ahead...I just have to get paid!)

Basketball in Harlem! Unfortunately, the snow made it difficult to play. Maybe next time!

Front row for the CNN HUGE screen in Times Square! Hooray!!!

All the people. Estimated over 1,000 people came to the Inauguration in Times Square.

"If you can't make it to DC, NYC is the place to be!"

Inner City Brooklyn and a Snowstorm on the Beach!

2009-01-10T21:06:00.000-05:00

Well, friends, this has been an exausting, but amazing week for me! I had my Jan term class, called Leadership Skills in Community Organizing. It was so incredibly practical and awesome for me. As much as I love my studies into the Bible and religion, those of you who know me know that I am more suited for the action part of it. And this was just that class! I learned so much about how to get things done and how to deal with issues that we think are important! Not only that, but the class included a field trip to Brooklyn. And not just Brooklyn, but the inside of Brooklyn. We toured a school that was put up, because people in the community wanted to raise the graduation percentage and give their kids a chance. It's a nice school, but it's different from any school I had been in. You went through security before entering, had to show a proper ID, be escorted by an official, and you passed police officers in everry hallway. However, we met some of the students there, who said that this school actually gives them an opportunity to succeed in a world that seems hopeless to many people they know. Then, we left there and went to look at some of the affordable housing units that are going up in an area that used to be slummy. It was really cool to see what some "spit-fire" people in a community can do when they put their mind to it, and follow the steps we learned in class! I cannot wait to apply my new found knowledge!

Today, which is Saturday, January 10, it snowed. And where is the most logical place to go when it snows? Why the Jersey shore, of course! And what an adventure it was! We began in a great little coffee shop called "No Joe's" and enjoyed wonderful expressos then off the the shore! It was quite the adventure. We tried to get to this island, so we could see the NYC skyline along with the storm, however, we were not allowed. An ever so friendly park ranger stopped us. So, we pulled over at another location...ran along the sand/snow...it was quite windy...snow and sand blowing EVERYWHERE! But, it was so much fun! Then we walked out onto a pier...did you know snow stuck to boardwalks? Well it does! Then, we decided to head back to Madison, to see how much it had snowed here. However, no trip would be complete without a quest to find the ultimate fast food chain: White Castle. However, even though we made a wrong turn, we still found it quite easily. Take that, Harold and Kumar!

Here are a few pictures to enjoy from today. I may post again very soon if we decide to tackle a massive sledding excursion! Enjoy and God Bless!

This is Misty, Jeff, me, Chad, and Trista at No Joe Coffee House! All we need is one more male, and we will make the Friends cast complete here at No Joe.

Here is where water meets sand meets snow. It was pretty nifty, but quite cold and windy.

Tada! They do taste just like a Krystals.

So it begins..

2009-01-04T00:01:00.000-05:00

Greetings! I find it funny that I am publishing my first post, and I have yet to inform you all what it is about yet! Ha!

I just recently moved to Madison, NJ, about 30 miles outside of NYC. At first, I did not like it, but the more and more I'm around, the more in love with it I become. In fact, lately, I have realized just how awesomely blessed I am to be living where I am living. There are some amazing things around here! Everytime I drive over the bridges to and from my family on Long Island, I almost get chills when I see the NYC skyline, or the Atlantic Ocean. I think, wow, I cannot believe this is where I live now! I'm minutes from EVERYTHING! So...

I made a New Years Resolution. Yes, I know, no one keeps them. But, I plan on keeping this for as long as I can! It is the following: Every other week, I am going to find and do something awesome, random, or crazy in the area where I now live. I intend to take full advantage of the things that now surround me for the time I am here.

That being said, this blog has been made specifically to document and tell those who are interested about the things that I do while fulfilling my resolution. Updates will come approximately every other week. However, if something awesome happens, I may also do a small post about that. But, all posts will be about the adventures I have while living here, in the great state of New Jersey.

So, I'm glad you all have decided to join me in my adventures and if you have any fun suggestions, feel free to let me know!

Peace!
Geny