Fall Leaves

It is my personal opinion that the time of year when the leaves change, the weather starts to feel crisp, and daylight is something we yearn for...is simply magical. The beauty that surrounds our daily lives during these magical moments can easily be taken advantage of. I find it so important to remember that all of this change is gift which we are given to enjoy.

I challenge you today to go outside and just BE. Let yourself be overtaken by the sounds, the smells, and the beauty which we are given. Even if you only have 3 minutes to spare, let yourself use this free gift to re-center your life, to find a new meaning, or even just a moment of peace. The changes we experience come and go and every year you know they will return. But, make a point to enjoy such beauty..now. Do this as a reminder that with the falling leaves, new possibilities will arise, new life can be created, and a new season is on the horrizon.

Posted via email from Samantha's Posterous

A True Romantic

Friday October 8th began just like any other day, except I knew that Joe and I were going on a date that evening, and I was very excited. Joe and I basically see each other on the weekends and maybe one other time during the week. Due to living in two septerate cities, driving to and from Lincoln and Omaha during the week gets very exhausting so we basically spend the weekends in either Omaha or Lincoln. This was an Omaha weekend so I was excited to be able to spend with whole weekend with him.

Earilier in the week Joe told me that we were going to a casual restaurant so I simple dress and cardigan would be fine....ok well I assumed a simple and dress would be great...I do not think Joe would go as far as picking out my dress :). I had to work all day on friday and when I finally got to leave to make the drive I was so excited not only for the date but to be able to see my amazing boyfriend. When I arrived at Joe's house I had to change and freshen up. I called to let him know that I was there and asked if it was ok if i just walked inside like I usually do. He was very quick to answer "no" and that I should just wait until he came down and helped me carry my bag. I honestly didn't think anything of his request until he opened the door and asked that I close my eyes as I walked through the house. At first I had no idea what was going on and then I assumed it was something for after dinner, and he did not want me to ruin the surprise. I kindly obliged and walked blind through the living room and up to where I could change.

Joe had mentioned that we had reservations at 7:15 so I knew about how long I had to relax a bit and then make sure I was ready. Around 7 I politely mentioned that it was probably time to go and as I got up to leave I figured I would have to close my eyes again as I walked thru the house and so I grabbed my sunglasses and just wore them because it was easier to not cheat that way. As I walked down the stairs I heard a beautiful song being played on the piano and I just figured it was Joe's roommate playing before he went out for the night. I still thought I needed to have my eyes closed remember so I really didn't know what was going on. As I reached the living room Joe said that I could open my eyes now and as I took off my sunglasses (i'm sure I looked a little crazy) and opened my eyes and walked into the dining room I saw the most romanitc thing anyone has ever done for me. Joe had the lights dimmed, the table set with a table cloth, candles on the table and on the surrounding shelfs, a bottle of chilled Champagne, and then I saw a beautiful boquet of white roses laying on the table by my chair. As I started to realize what Joe had done my eyes welled with tears. I could not believe that someone would do something so romantic and beautiful as a surprise for me, and the evening was just getting started.

Dinner was served and prepared by a friend of Joe's. It was incredible. We had soup to start and then a great appetizer of bread with a mixture of veggies and something warm and delicious on top. A salad was also served and then the main dish was just fantastic. Due to my diet choices Joe had asked that a pasta dish with shrimp be prepared for me, while he had a steak and potatoes. My pasta dish was so delicious. It was slightly garlicy and so fresh. It was absolutely perfect. The champagne was awesome and dinner was so relaxing. It was funny becasue Joe and I had the hardest time talking during dinner. I couldnt stop smiling and trying to not cry at the same time and everytime I tried to bring up something to talk about I just started smiling again because of how wonderful I felt.

After dinner, Joe put on some of our favorite songs and we slow danced in his livingroom for a long time. It was so wonderful to just spend a romantic evening with the man I love. And how incredible that he planned the entire evening for our three month anniversary. It was absolutely the most romantic thing ever done for me.

Joe had also planned to take me out for dessert so we went to the Old Market in Omaha and had a form of fried ice cream at Blue Sushi and Sake Grill. It was the perfect ending to our meal. After dessert we walked around the market and found our way to a store that sells furs and leather. I tried on all kinds of fur headbands and hats and things. It was funny to try and get Joe to put them on...he never took me up that offer!

Friday is a day that I will not soon forget. I feel like the luckiest woman in the world to have a man that can show how he cares in such a perfect way!

 

the roses that Joe bought me

my amazing fur headband and Joe!

Dinner picture

Dinner picture

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Sunshine and Daisey's

Life is pretty amazing these days! I am dating the most amazing man and never thought I would be so happy living back in Nebraska. Who would have thought, right?

Joe and I met at a mutual friend's wedding and just simply totally hit it off. He is a banker which is fun because now I feel like being financially responsible is almost a must! He lives in Omaha so I have done quite a bit of commuting! Thank goodness I dont mind to drive! I am so thankful everyday for the blessings that I have been given in these last few months. It has been such a good reminder that God truly has a plan for my life and if I would just let Him do His thing, life will turn out how it pretty great!

This last week I was offered a temporary job as a project assistant at UNL in the School of Business Administration's graduate advising office. It has been so great to be back on campus and I did apply for the full time long term permanent job so please say a prayer, cross your fingers or do a dance (whatever you feel most comfortable with) that I get the permanent job. Having a full time job will be so great and I definitely need to get back into the swing of things! Being on campus again has made me realize that I do need to go back to grad school! I have found a program at UNL and will most definitely apply for assistantships and the cohort for next fall.

This summer has been such a good lesson in patience, the importance of family and trusting in God's plan. I miss all of my people back in Austin and I do at times miss the craziness of my past life, but I know now that where I am now is where I am meant to be...for the time being. Its funny how life work's itself out, when you let it be what it needs to be!

Peace and love y'all!

S

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Trip to Austin!

Going back to Austin Today for the first time since I left May 17!
This is the longest I have been gone since 2006! Its really a strange
feeling. I am super excited about seeing my friends but visiting kind
of brings back so many mixed emotions!!! My little brother Simon (who
was on the front of the Lincoln Journal Star's sports page!!) is
playing in men's national volleyball tournament! I am soo excited to
see him play! Hopefully I will have great videos and pics to share!!
BUT...on our drive we came upon a semi that had crashed and it was
covering the highway from shoulder to shoulder!!! Luckily no one was
hurt but it was still really bad! And on a funny note, the truck was
carying hotdogs and sausage! Haha

In different life news...this summer is going Sooo well! I really am
happy where I am and have great stuff on the horizon :) work is
ok...def not something I can see myself doing forever but I am so
thankful to have a job! Spending time with family has been so great. I
continue to look for more career jobs but it's def a struggle!

My trip to Cosat Rica will be here before I know it! I am so excited
to get some beach time, my tan is lacking this summer! I do have a few
more travel plans for the summer but really I'm just soo excited about
a new beginning ;)

I hope that y'all have a great fourth of July!!

Peace!

S

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Friendly Update and Another Year Older!

So I realized last night that I haven't written in awhile so I thought
an update would be appropriate. Plus a recap of my 22nd year on this
earth is def a necessity!

I am finally back in nebraska and enjoying my time with my family and
friends. Living with grandpa is really awesome. He totally takes care
of me. For example I woke up today and he had a baked apple ready for
breakfast in the microwave! The food is AMAZING, he is so sweet and I
get to spend time with my grandpa! We watch TV together in the
evening!

I am working at the Nebraska Surgery Center with my momma. I like it
because it is work and it is fun to learn a new skill set. But, I am
still trying to figure out my future and where I am called to be. Life
is soo confusing. But I guess I'm glad I am interested in so many
things! There is always an upside!

So I guess since I will only be 22 for a few more hours, I think its
appropriate to reflect on the last year. So here it goes! One year ago
today I was sitting in the first apartment I ever rented by myself
reflecting on the previous year. I was working orientation at St.
Ed's, lived in Austin, and thought I would never move back home. Last
summer consisted of a totally relaxing vacay to Denver with my family,
completing the last orientation I would help with, moving twice,
saying goodbye to a very dear friend for a semester, and beginning the
start of the end of my last college semester. The fall meant a trip to
Cali with the sister and mom, nannying for the first time, the swine
flu epidemic (max had it), going to Baton Rouge for an LSU game with
the brother, strategic management, finding an amazing friend in my
roommate Elyse, no more UPB, research work in Student life, last
semester in the DOS, wisdom teeth removal, and GRADUATION!!! The
winter was quite exciting as I visited 8 cities in 3 months. In order
they are Baton Rouge, Lincoln, Houston, New Orleans, DC, Seattle, NYC,
and Phoenix! I completed an internship, fell in love with cupcakes,
pizza and blogging, was an administrative coordinator for 9 days,
housesat for 2 weeks, saw the white house, watched Avatar, mastered
the DC metro, spent time with family that I never get to see, and
started the hunt for jobs when I decided grad school was not the way
to go this fall. Spring 2010 brought with it my
stay-at-home-mom-with-no-kids stage, a love of running, an
appreciation of NeeedtoBreathe on Pandora, the selling of all my
furniture, more babysitting, discovering gourmet Gourdough's
doughnuts, a funny experience that was a long time coming, and a move
back to the Neb. The start of the summer meant finding a job, settling
in Lincoln, a trip to Kansas City with high school girlfriends,
getting my first bridesmaid dress, and finally tonight, the eve of my
23rd birthday!

I know this list isn't comprehensive or really very deep cuz really
that stuff is sappy and emotional. But I would like to say that to
everyone who has made the last 365 days the most memorable of my life
you are truly apart of me and will always make my memories special. I
am so blessed to have friends who love me and give me the chance to
love them back.

I am so utterly thankful and lucky to have lived 23 years of a truly
wonderful life. Through the bumps and bruises along the way I have
discovered that what is on the other side of those roadblocks is worth
the struggle. It is simply amazing how God works in our lives. The
blessings, friendships, experiences, relationships, struggles,
laughter, fears, and peace that HE creates in our hearts and minds is
incomparable. I hope to live these next 365 days with a sense of calm,
to cultivate relationships, to give back to those that have given SO
much to me, and with purpose to be the best version of myself. It is
so exciting to be filled with HOPE!

I love you all! And hope that YOUR next 365 days will be filled with
hope and peace!!

S

PS I wanna give a shout out to my Bday sis Miss Katherine Dugas!! I
love u girlie and hope your day is special!

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The Journey Home

Today marked the end of 5 years spent living in Austin. It is such a
bittersweet feeling. I left one family to go to another. There is so
much about Austin that I will miss! The man standing on the bridge of
congress and 290 holding the cross after every thurs fri and sat
night! The delicious food. As many of you know I am quite opposed to
chain restaurants! I guess this means I will be saving quite a bit of
money in Lincoln, but also getting the chance to explore some
local/ethnic foods there too to find new favorite eating
establishments! I will miss the hippie/granola attitude in Austin. I
think I have been semi-converted to a granola! (Granola=recycling
fanatic, vegetarian, organic lover) but this conversion is not bad, I
actually love it and will miss the no styrofoam policy, natural foods,
and free recycling!

Austin is still the home to many of my good friends and saying goodbye
to them was really hard! It is amazing how when you leave your
biological family, you form a chosen family, and leaving this family
was emotional, but I made it through and am ready for this next step
in my life.

Lincoln will be great because I will be able to see my siblings,
parents and relatives so much more often! It will be an adjustment but
I think an exciting one! Moving home will also allow me to explore
Lincoln in a new way! I hope to find really great shops and cute
restaurants! I hope I actually can find what I am looking for!

Leaving always bring up the questions of seeing friends again, staying
in touch and missing out on memories. But if I only thought of the
negatives I would never get anywhere. That is why I know that my
leaving is not goodbye...its see you later. And that leaving means
stories to tell and new friendships and memories to make!

The last 4 months have been the most exciting, adventuresome, and
blessed of my life. My travels, memories, friendships, relationships
and personal growth will never be replaceable. I full heartedly look
forward to my next 4 months and hope that they will be as awesome.

I hope that each of you who helped me along the way know that without
your support, generosity, words of encouragement and love I would not
have been able to find who I am or discover my passion! So, thank you
from the bottom of my heart and I sincerely love you. If you ever want
to take your own adventure, please let me help you in whatever way you
might need. You always have a room in good 'ole Nebraska!

Thank you for reading, happy summer, tell your friends and family you
love then and...

PEACE!

S

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The Moments Of A Year

Today I watched as countless friends graduated from St. Edward's. I remember siting at the same ceremony one year ago and thinking how time flies. This nostalgic feeling of seeing so many talented individuals embark on their next steps of their lives really is powerful. Thinking back through everything that happened one year ago can be shocking! For example, I was still in college one year ago, I had no plans of moving home, I had never been to DC and going to graduate school was the only option in my mind. These thoughts really even just occured in the last few months. One year ago I believe I was a different person. The changes, growth, and possibilities that happen in one year's time simply are amazing. Think about it... how long really is one year? 365 days, 8760 hours, 525,600 minutes and 31,536,000 seconds. That is a lot of time. And so many questions come to mind with all that time! How much of it did we waste away, never to get back? How much of that time did we spend serving others, or even caring for our own needs. How much of that time are we so completely proud of? How much of that time did we spend making those that care for us proud? Time is so valuable and in one year's time what did we actually do...where did we start and where did we end?

Living through love, tears, storms, laughter, memories, break-ups, hook-ups, death, birth, jobs, opportunities...LIFE. One year is simply just one step of our lives. It is a few (or really a lot of) moment(s) in time. Sitting today in that moment and realizing that one entire year has gone by, I can honestly say that I am so happy and proud of where I am today. One year ago I never expected to be in this place of my life. But, I guess some parts of those precious moments are not controlled by our hopes, wishes or even dreams. There is a purpose in THOSE moments, and I do believe that it is God in those moments. Sheer moments make up one year, and my challenge for the next year is to work towards being very conscious of how I spend my moments. In one year I hope to look back to this particular moment, remember the feeling of accomplishment and peace and be able to say that I truly have lived my moments to the best of my abilities!

"86 400 seconds in a day to turn it all around or throw it all away, you better tell 'em that you love 'em while you got the chance to say...gotta live like you're dying"

take it to heart...even if its just for one of those 365 days!

Peace

S

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Gourdough's Donuts

If you LOVE doughnuts you must read on!

So as we were sitting around this evening a brilliant idea popped into the mind of Miss Sara Hoover; Taking an adventure to Gourdough's Doughnuts! I had never personally heard of this establishment, and then Sara showed me a pic of this gourmet doughnut and immediately I decided that this idea was perfect! 

Gourdough's has a list of about 15 pre-made doughnut flavors and then there is the Create Your Own possibility which I wanted to do. So I decided I wanted a doughnut iced with creamcheese frosting and topped with grilled bananas and strawberries and dusted with cinnamon. What I received simply was one of the most deliciously sweet and gooey creations I have ever had the pleasure of eating. Seriously it was that good! 

If you live in the Austin area you must go to this place. It is on south Lamar and is in a beautiful airstream trailer. The atmosphere is awesome at night, the doughnuts are marvelous and the price is right at $3.25 for a generous sized dessert! I hope you will go and experience for yourself the wonder of these doughnuts! 

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My Next Steps

So my life is pretty ok these days. I am back in Austin, babysitting, seeing friends, and enjoying the lovely heat and humidity before I move back to Lincoln. That's right, I am headed home. I truly never thought this day would come where I would willingly write about moving home. But I guess all things happen for a reason, and I cannot say that I am not slightly excited about the thought of being close to my siblings and family! Also on the plus side is that Kristie is moving home as well! She is more keen on the whole idea but I am just happy that she will be there!

So this somewhat hesitant decision was made because of a variety of factors from free rent, no job, and having to be home 6 or 7 times this summer for various activities and weddings. (seriously what is with the summer and weddings??) I am finally coming to terms with this new adventure in my life. I do know that it will be a major adjustment with much boundary setting necessary, however I also am optimistic for the new friendships and the time to focus on old ones.

While I am at home I am going to have some time to figure out my next step and that is a good thing. There are so many jobs, hobbies, hopes, and dreams that I can focus on. I want to write a book, start a company, focus on healthy living and a "green" way of life. I want to do something significant to make the world a better place, I want to leave a mark, I want to be happy doing what I love and having fun. I want to be creative, spontaneous, and unique. I have so many interests that I would love to pursue. So, that is what I hope to do in good 'old Lincoln. I want to write, think, dream, plan, and jump in...both feet first!

These next steps will be wonderful, I just need to get there first!

Peace!

S

 

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The Minivan

Why do a portion of our dear elderly population drive minivans? I find it a little confusing. I am not saying that it is bad, I just am confused about the motive, but in a good way.

When I think minivan I picture a young family with a couple adorable children, maybe expecting more..maybe not. This minivan would be used for driving to practices with all the neighborhood kids, loading up the floaties for the beach trips in the summer, and for minimizing any fighting that might take place due to the extreme close contact in a smaller car. So why do our grandparents drive minivans? Is there more room for grandchildren, or maybe it is an easier car to get in and out of? Who really knows except those that choose such a vehicle for themselves.

If I was a grandparent I would imagine myself to drive some kind comfortable sedan, that was a really smooth ride, was not too trendy or expensive, just something that was very reliable and comfortable.I think I would also like to have those really comfy wooly seat covers, and would also play the phantom of the opera and classical music. Maybe I am negatively profiling this generation of people, but this is a sincere thought I have always had!

I hope you are doing well in your life, whatever that might mean for you, and are enjoying your spring weather!

As a side note, I am going back to Austin on Sunday after 6 weeks of having my adventure! I am excited to see my dear friends and to be back in the "granola"ness of Austin! And the Mexican food is calling my name!!

Peace!

S

Posted via web from Samantha's Posterous

The Minivan

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Why do a portion of our dear elderly population drive minivans? I find it a little confusing. I am not saying that it is bad, I just am confused about the motive.

When I think minivan I picture a young family with a couple adorable children, maybe expecting more..maybe not. This minivan would be used for driving to practices with all the neighborhood kids, loading up the floaties for the beach trips in the summer, and for minimizing any fighting that might take place due to the extreme close contact in a smaller car. So why do our grandparents drive minivans? Is there more room for grandchildren, or maybe it is an easier car to get in and out of? Who really knows except those that choose such a vehicle for themselves.

If I was a grandparent I would imagine myself to drive some kind comfortable sedan, that was a really smooth ride, was not too trendy or expensive, just something that was very reliable and comfortable.I think I would also like to have those really comfy wooly seat covers, and would also play the phantom of the opera and classical music. Maybe I am negatively profiling this generation of people, but this is a sincere thought I have always had!

I hope you are doing well in your life, whatever that might mean for you, and are enjoying your spring weather!

As a side note, I am going back to Austin on Sunday after 6 weeks of having my adventure! I am excited to see my dear friends and to be back in the "granola"ness of Austin! And the Mexican food is calling my name!!

Peace!

S

Posted via web from Samantha's Posterous

Pizza Cake

 

 

The Wonderous Pizza Cake syndrome that I currently am experiencing

has led me to my new dream job. Traveling the country..world if it leads to it

and trying various locally loved pizza establishments and cupcake stores.

I would love to have a blog, show, book, article, column about my fidnings.

A medium that would account for my travels, experiences, people met along

the way, food discoveries and fun! I just think that it would be soo much fun!

If the man that has the show about traveling trying various kinds of alcohol

can be successful, I really think that this idea would work!

 

Who doesnt love some kind of pizza and cupcakes are like the "thing" right now!

Maybe it really is easier than I am thinking. I just think that Pizza Cake sounds like

such a perfect part of my life! Although this endeavor seems a TAD unhealthy, you

only live once right?

 

Anyway, enough of my dreaming and scheming! But, if you think this sound like fun

and want to have an adventure...lets see what we can do! We are only young once,

we can dream big now, and why now!!

 

PS...sometime soon see for yourself how much more your taste buds will love you

for treating them to such fine cuisine!

 

Peace!

S

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Independent Woman...part 2!

As a dear friend commented on a previous post about my independent
woman life style (which I am simply enjoying) it made me realize that
the oh so common song lyric that reaffirms every spelling lesson I
have had is absolutely the best way to be living my life right now!

So part 2 in the traveling nomad independent woman (and yes every time
I type that word I silently add "do you know what that means") life of
mine has began to unfold yet again. As many of you may know I am now
living in Phoenix (currently house sitting). The adventure getting
here was quite a ride, as my life seems to be these days.

I woke up bright and early last friday around 4am and quickly dressed,
zipped one last bag and made the contacts/glasses decision by choosing
glasses as I had grand hopes of sleeping on the plane! I make it down
the elevator and out the door with my 7000lbs of luggage (and this
trip should have been easier as I shipped two boxes home to alleviate
weight issues I had traveling to DC) I start the trek to the metro and
its starts raining...rain I figured was the least of my worries as
long as I made it to the metro to catch the 523 train....well I didn't
really realize how much longer it was taking me to walk the usually
short 7 min walk to the metro until I looked at my phone and it was
519 and i was having to stop every couple minutes to switch bags and
give my tired body a rest (I had a bag that I later found out weighed
61lbs, another that was 20, and two shoulder bags which together were
close to 30). At one of these routine rest breaks I realized I
couldn't really see anything...because...I had left my glasses in the
apartment...so much for early morning decisions!

I finally made it to the metro and had missed my train...but all was
good there are always more! I finally made it to the bus stop, after a
transfer and endless stares as though I was crazy or even infringing
upon other people's comfort zone, although I never got in anyone's
way. I got on the bus and there was really not a lot of room for my
life in bags and this nice guy noticed and offered to make sure my
body bag sized luggage didn't fall and was out of the way! It was
really a great thing at 630 in the morning!

So I finally made it to the airport, checked in, and had to re pack my
body bag because it was 11 pounds over weight. The man behind the
counter goes "when that bag bursts your skivies are gonna be going
around the conveyor belt! At least someone had a sense of humor that
early in the morning...right?

Check in was a success, made it to the gate as the attendant was
asking for volunteers to give up their seats...for the price of the
one way ticket to phoenix plus $200 on top of that! So I decided to
take the offer! After all I didn't have to be in phoenix by any
particular time...but the catch was that I had to be shuttled to
baltimore (I was at dulles). So they hired a shuttle van...I got on it
and barely made it to BWI in time for my flight. I went thru security
in 3 minutes and got on the plane just as they were closing the doors!
Talk about perfect timing!

I realized thru this somewhat disheveled experience that blessings
come in quite mysterious ways!

I'm in Phoenix now and have been enjoying laying out, watching movies
and relaxing! Some might call this being a bum or even laziness but I
can assure you that is not the case! This is my mental break before I
need to scrounge for jobs! A job is my next priority...hopefully one
will come my way soon!

I hope you...whoever you might be... are doing well, enjoying life and
appreciating the little things! Take time to relax and look at the
stars, read a book, or paint your nails! Oh yea...if u know of a
job...I would love to chat!

Peace!

S

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The hovering epidemic

Now maybe epidemic is a bit of an exaggeration but I have come to
notice that folks in large metropolitan cities become expert hoverers.
As I write this entry I am standing outside some random office
building, staring at the metro..and all those other hovering by
because they really don't have much else to do. For example, there is
an older gentleman standing with his back to the wall with one leg
crossed in front of the other. Business suite, shopping
bag...something small...maybe for the wife, phone in hand, and sun
glasses. Now either he has a lot of time to burn or he is waiting for
someone/something. But the fact of the matter is...his hovering
abilities. Now some of you might be wondering what do u mean hovering?
Well let me explain!

I have found that living in a city where a significant amount of the
population travels with mass transit, either metro or buses, that when
their is down time, the only options are to wait outside and hover in
an area...not necessarily around people...or go somewhere and spend
money. I.e. Restaurant, starbucks, boutique...you get the point! As
spending money goes...there just isn't an unlimited supply of it in
many cases so that means hovering is the next best option! If people
had cars they would probably want to drive around, nap, or would even
spend their time most likely walking the 5 miles to the parking spot,
which happened to be the closest available in morning rush hour.

I know this is a strange observation but what can I say...its
everywhere...the hovering epidemic! Due to the fact that I am creepily
watching people as they aimlessly stand by buildings and store
fronts...maybe the real obscurity is my sense of entertainment!

Love

S

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Independently Wealthy

As I sit on BoltBus to NYC I have a great dream of magically becoming
independently wealthy...not so much to baste in materialistic
possessions but to have experiences! Imagine the glorious jungles,
beaches and mountains that could be shared and conquered!

Although affording such lavish travel would be wonderful, I sincerely
enjoy working and giving back some of the gifts I have been blessed
with. Finding a job to use these so called gifts I have awarded myself
has become another issue for my life! I keep applying and networking
and am just hoping to get a break! I am excited to work, as that is
what I have decided to do come hopefully the beginning of May (at the
latest). I find myself searching for meaning and truth and am going to
continue searching that out...until I feel satisfied...or...

I can continue to dream of being independently wealthy!

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Ask yourself...

 

 

 

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A Searck for TRUTH: droppingknowledge.org

At work and did a google search for "truth". This is what I found

 

 

 

Really powerful...but there are more...go to www.droppingknowledge.org

 

thought provoking...I think so!

 

S

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Adventurous adventurer

I thought I would take this time as I patiently wait for the metro to
arrive to colorfully relay to all of you (my very loyal and faithful
readers) my random adventures of the last few days!!!

Last week I decided I wanted to find out where things were so I
started walking! I discovered a UPS store, an amazing happy hour ($1
sushi rolls and $2wine) and that homeless people enjoy tall hot
chocolates from starbucks just like those politicians and lawyers!
Seriously, I stopped into a starbucks to get a skinny soy cinnamon
dulce latte and found a homeless woman buying a hot chocolate! What I
find to be most surprising about this encounter was her decision to
spend $4.06 on a cup of hot chocolate! I guess if I had no home and
limited resources starbucks would be my last choice....but everyone
has to have their BUCKS fix!

Following my unusual encounter I decided heading home was good
considering I had dinner plans with margie and her friend from home!
We went to have mexican...margaritas and all...except my beverage
tasted like pinesol and the food was mediocre....I mean it was a good
experience...just no Arrandas..(.for you Austin people) I guess I
learned that real mexican food has to be found down south!

The next day I decided to walk home from work!! I discovered I live
Sooo close to where I work...considering people commute an hour! I can
walk to work in about 25 minutes! The walk is awesome...great
neighborhoods, the national zoo, and a cute cupcake place! I had a red
velvet cupcake with gnache as frosting! It was quite delicious!! This
day was also monumental to my time here for the sheer reason that I
discovered my building has a steam shower in the "health spa"...yes
you read that right steam shower gloriousness!!! It is AMAZING! And
the best part is that no one is ever in there so I get it to myself!!

My next adventures took me to the national mall! This was a really fun
day for me! As I have never been to DC before all of the monuments and
museums are like a sparkly treasure for me! I had so much fun being
really touristy! I saw the capital, hope to go in it one of these
days! The washington monument was beautiful surrounded by flags and
set in a crisp blue sky. The Lincoln memorial was really awesome
because of the magnificence of the monument in itself but also because
of his words...inscribed into the walls!! So powerful!

This same day I decided that a visit to a museum would be a great
idea...and hey they are free...I like free things...so I went to the
Museum of American History...3 levels in an hour and a half...not too
shabby I must add! I saw Julia Child's kitchen, presidential stuff,
and the first ladys exhibit which was probably my favorite of the day!
The museums were pretty awesome but I was exhausted! It was a great,
crisp, and clear day! I couldn't have asked for anything better!

Adventures wil continue..as I am visiting the White House tomorrow and
heading to NYC next weekend!

Peace y'all

S

Posted via email from Samantha's Posterous

This week...in DC with a little grad school flare!

Soooo this has been a really fun week for me! I am getting to work on
great things at work and when I leave work I go on mini adventures! My
adventures took me to target because everyone has got to know where to
buy those must have's and not such a high cost! The target I chose to
visit was in Columbia Heights...so I jumped on the metro,
transferred..only once and made it to one of my favorite stores. This
target was especially special because it was in a larger building with
a best buy, marshals, and another store...so by larger store I really
mean city block! As I walked in I was greeted with the familiar aroma
of cooking/stale popcorn and a flash of red! As I ventured around
Target I came upon escalators...in the store...it was in fact a two
story target...which I thought was quite special! After I purchased my
dry fruit and essential black tights I left with the hopes of
exploring Columbia Heights a little before it got too dark! Well turns
out the only 'safe' part of that area was where all of the shops are.
Now don't get me wrong I hadn't walked into a terrible part of town,
but I could tell things were getting run down pretty fast so I
promptly turned around and walked the other way...of course playing it
cool the whole time just listening to my music. I had almost gotten
back to the metro when my rommate texted me to meet her at the
mall...so I jumped right back on the metro and headed to Pentagon
City. I, by chance, ran into her at the transfer station, and when we
got to PC I was slightly shocked to find the metro lead directly into
the mall. Seriously, you walked out of the metro and didn't even go
outside and straight into the mall! This mall is GINORMOUS. But really
just your average mall filled with too many teenagers!

Shopping was fun..I didn't buy anything...which is fine..except I
really really wanted to!!

So, I think I should mention my grad school adventure while I am
thinking about it! Last saturday (yes 2 days after I made it to DC) I
traveled to seattle for Seattle University's preview days. While I was
there I got to see my grandfather and his wife...and actually enjoyed
a couple bottles of wine with them...which was so funny! Seeing him
was great! I even got him to go to Mass with me which totally shocked
my Aunt and Uncle who I also got to see. They cooked me amazing fresh
caught (as in that morning) white salmon, with fruit salad and
couscous! I had not seen them in almost 4 years so it was great to
take a relaxing evening and spend time with them.

Traveling back to DC was a crazy emotional rollercoaster! I almost
cried like 5 times! They made me check my cloth Vera bradley at the
door because the red eye I had to take was completely full. Did I
mention I sat in the middle and the man to my right was pushin 6'7''!
I did open my eyes once and notice I was kinda cuddling with
him...then I noticed his wedding ring! Best, no sleep, exhausting,
emotionally charged night EVER!

I did finally make it back to DC after I took a 20 seater from
philadelphia, and was glad to be back...to work! I went straight to
work for my second day! My supervisor got right down to business and
gave me all these great things to work on! Articles for a newsletter
to write, book descriptions and research! I was fine at first and then
everything started to fade! I met with my supervisor at the end of the
day to talk about a few things and he had an article I had written. He
started out saying it was half my fault and half his...those are never
the words you want to hear on your second day! I had written a
paragraph that was absolutely false in every way...and in my delirium
I didn't know the difference! Again the waterworks almost started but
I got it together and finished my day and left!

The moral of my semi-sob story is this adventure sure has its ups and
down! But its all for a reason right??

Still loving DC and can't wait to share more!!

S

Posted via email from Samantha's Posterous

A typical day...not so typical.

Right now as I sit in a turkish restaurant called Levante I am
thinking of how lucky I am to have this opportunity.

Today I worked from 8:30 till 4:30 writing articles for a newsletter,
creating spreadsheet for a seminar in Rome, read Ex Corde Ecclesiae
and worked on a blurb for a book cover. All of these tasks were
different in their own way but all had a valuable leson to be learned.
I am so utterly thankful for this internship, for those that have made
it possible, and for the courage to come out here.

As I walk to work in the morning I find myself hoping to fit in with
the crowds on the train, to do great work for the ACCU and to learn
something about myself in the process! I think that this whole
experience will bring me knowledge about myself that I might not
otherwise be able to find. I am searching for something greater than
myself, somewhere to place my energies, something to say 'this is my
purpose'. I hope to start this discovery on this adventure and of
course along the way I will stumble, but I am excited to get back up
and learn!

PS greatest hummus of my life! I love this city for its diversity and
culture! I am excited to be here, and to share my journey along the
way!
Now, time to eat and enjoy the environment!

Posted via email from Samantha's Posterous

DC-the first few days

I have finally made it to DC, however currently I am racking up those
frequent flier miles and traveling to Seattle for a graduate school
preview days program...these airplanes are great places to catch up on
posts!

So thursday I left for DC with literally 115lbs of luggage. Now for a
normal travel experience where someone is picking you up from the
airport that much luggage is no problem...but that was the farthest
from my experience. I landed in Baltimore and knew I needed to catch a
shuttle to the Amtrak station. So I did that with only minor
problems...I get to the Amtrak station and buy a ticket on the Marc
because it was $44 cheaper!

Waiting for the train I met a nice lady who wasn't scowling at me for
packing my entire life in 4 bags! Finally I got a chance to sit down
and attach my rolley bags together creating this monster of a bag. So
now I didn't have to pull two and have two on my shoulders which was
really starting to be awkward! Getting onto the train was funny
because I had to go around this sharp corner to find an empty place
with my bodybag like contraption! At this point all I could do was
laugh, and thank the Lord that I could somewhat manage myself!

Departing the train I needed to find the red line metro, buy a ticket,
get through the turnstiles, and make it onto a metro train. I had
never done any of that in DC before, heck I had never been to DC nor
had I ever met my roommate or really knew where I was going! So I
just smiled, apologized to all the kind, very nicely dressed people
(oh did I mention...it was rush hour) and mastered my independent
woman gig! The only hiccup I had was getting all of my stuff thru the
turnstiles while inserting a tickets and then pulling it out, while
walking thru. I literally got stuck in between the little doors that
open and close! So..I forced them open with my sheer adrenaline that
was absolutely flowing at that moment, played it cool and survived!

The metro ride wasn't bad except for the merciless stares due to the
absurdity of my packing abilities! I got on the right train, made it
to the Cleveland park stop and managed to drag my belongings with the
last bit of strength I had left off the train only to find that the
escalator was out of service! So I toughed it up and started dragging
all of my luggage up two flights of stairs! I got up the first stair
and thought I was gonna throw my back out so I devised a new plan. I
sat my carry on bags a few stairs up, turned and with all my might
heaved everything up. I did this a few more times, all the while
thinking this is what I deserved for packing for 6 weeks for 3
different climates and bringing 11 pairs of shoes...I was being
smited!

Finally this really nice man saw my struggles and probably thought if
he didn't help me I might keel over and die so we both lifted the bags
and made it, alive, up the stairs.

Meeting my roommate was kinda nerve racking especially because I'm
sure I looked like a crazy person! Margie is so so sweet, and
considerate! She has red curly hair like me, and her apartment is
phenomenal! The front door has a doorman, the lobby looks like
something from an Audrey Hepburn move adorned in crystal, and gold
with regal mirrors and flower arrangements! There is a sitting room, a
members only lounge and of course a state of the art health club and
spa! Ok so for real...I never want to leave! Think old glamour, a 5
min walk to restaurants and an organic supermarket, and wood floors!
What more does a girl need in her life! Seriously its amazing! I am so
blessed to have found this opportunity!

Friday was my first day at the internship working with the Association
of Catholic Colleges and Universities! I made it to Dupont Circle
found the building, got my badge and started what I hope to be one of
the most informative and worthwhile experiences to date! I began work
almost right away thinking about my professional and personal goals
while at the ACCU! I also began writing an article for their quarterly
newsletter which is sent to 3000 people, made website notations of out
of date information, and researched the Center for Earth and
Jurisprudence. All in all, it was a perfect first day, including the
delicious lunch my supervisor took me to at a delightful Turkish
restaurant!

After work I decided to take an adventure of my own to a Verizon
Store! I mapped it out, and started walking! I only made one wrong
turn and found the store thanks to my trusty crackberry! Then I rushed
home, changed and headed out again to see Avatar...for the first
time...cuz I'm super lame!

So far DC is everything and more than I expected it to be! I am super
excited to explore the city, meet new people and learn!

So that's all for now! I am waiting in the Chicago airport and might
get bumped which means a free roundtrip voucher from United! More
later on my Seattle adventure and graduate school excitment!
T
Wish me luck!

S

Posted via email from Samantha's Posterous

Mardi Gras recap

As I am sitting on the plane reminiscing about the whirlwind of the
last few weeks I have to. remind myself that that whirlwind is about
to become a hurricane! Right now the only dilemma is to figure out
where to begin...

After my 9 day stint as an administrative coordinator at the
Counseling Center at St. Edward's, I participated in what is probably
one of my favorite things to do: MARDI GRAS!! This holiday has so many
negative underpinnings and receives so many scoffs because of the
inappropriate and degrading experience many people believe this
extravaganza contains. Now, don't get me wrong, if you are lookin for
a show you absolutely can find it in New Orleans at Mardi Gras, BUT
that is definitely not what I went to find nor is that my experienced.
My version of Mardi Gras is made possible by the amazing Dugas Family!

This particular Mardi Gras started with a trip to a great Cajun
Restaurant where I enjoyed my first shrimp Poboy (of the many to come)
and a walk down Bourbon to find Hurricanes! We were absolutely
successful in the Hurricane endeavor and we even got a great cup with
a handle to take home! Now maybe I should clarify who WE is... My dear
friend Anna from Kansas City, Kristie whose family kindly coordinates
much of the trip, Rachel from Kansas city who played volleyball with
Kris and is a huge riot, Michael from Lincoln-we went to high school
together and is of great importance to Kris, then all of the people
Kristie's older brother brought along...Chuck, Scott, Matt, Anthony,
Josie, two other girls who I didn't really get the chance to talk
with, and Robs gf Nikki. So as you can see the WE in this story is
quite an entourage, one which only got larger by saturday...there were
36 people in 9 hotel rooms...you get my drift!

After the stroll down bourbon, we proceeded to get bundled up because
it was becoming quite a cold night. With gloves, scarves and countless
layers we made it to Mike Serio's Poboy shop on St. Charles...which
happens to be on the parade route. Due to the weather the previous day
the parades that were supposed to roll thursday couldn't so we got to
see 4 parades on friday night! My favorite of the night was Muses
because its an all women Krew and they throw great things...eye masks,
rings, bracelets and all adorned with high heels in pinks and reds.
But the prized possession of this parade are the hand decorated real
shoes they throw out. Now you might be asking why are throw and beads
such a big deal...and I honestly don't have an answer except you just
can't help but want more and more once you are in that
atmosphere...and the high heels are just icing on the cake! People
fight over these things..literally. A man said to Anna that once the
parade starts that he goes all out and to not excpect him to be kind
or considerate...this man caught 3 shoes this year...simply unfair!

After the parades Anna and I decided to go find the rest of our people
because they had decided to leave and go to Pat O'Briens the famous
piano bar on Bourbon. It took us almost 25 minutes to fight our way
thru the crowds. When we finally got there, the line to get in was an
entire block long! So...we left and randomly met up with on of the
guys in our group on the street. We then found out that everyone had
gone back to the hotel, so that is where we headed too! After a day of
drinking, parades, friends, and Beads we were all exhausted...but not
tired enough for a trip to Arby's!

Saturday morning started out well...woke up early then tried to get
breakfast at Arby's and lost out! Anna and I made it 5 min after they
stopped serving...and all I wanted was an egg soo bad! I seriously
almost jumped over the counter! After our breakfast disappointment
came the most epic Mass of my life! Saturday is an important day for
the Dugas family because the Endymion parade rolls saturday night, and
this is the parade Kristie's dad rides in, which ends in the Super
Dome at a Ball! All of this craziness begins with a Catholic Mass
celebrated in the Super Dome with the Krew and family members. The
reason this experience is so epic is because the guys are dressed in
their outfits which generally are bright colored clown suits, across
the aisle from us were men drinking beer with feet propped up, people
laughing and talking but what is so strange is it all seemed so
normal! And yes, the Bishop of New Orleans did allow that mass to
count for Sunday!

After mass we ventured back to Mike's with a quick stop for some
pizza! Anna and I decided to stay a little longer at Mike's and when
we tried to get back to the hotel we were stuck because there were day
parades going on we had to cross the parade route twice! This is not
allowed and kristie almost got arrested because she tried to right as
she was across from the hotel! We finally found a place to cross and
by this time it was almost 330 which means Ball preparation time!
Every year there are about 10 girls trying to get ready for a formal
ball in two rooms with 2 showers and 6 mirrors...you can see the
problem! But getting ready is always so much fun! Sharing make-up,
doing hair, sewing dresses...it all happens in those rooms with just
enough time to take one team photo and then catch the charter buses to
the Dome!

This Ball is not a sit down dinner, classy affair. Its essentially is
a formal tailgate! You bring your own food in coolers, and your own
alcohol. They provide popcorn, mixers and ice! The rest is history.
This year we danced the night away, watched as the parade came thru
the Dome, I got "married," enjoyed drinks, sang to Leonard Skynard as
he performed live, and took countless hilarious pictures! The dresses
were fabulous, the music was amazing and before I knew it it was 4 am
and we were headed back to the buses! 8 hours of dancing, Laughing,
drinking and making memories I was exhausted! Somehow I ended up with
a tux coat, and thank goodness for that because it was really cold in
my dress...and we had to walk because we are idiots. We got off the
bus early for some crazy reason and walked along side the bus back to
the hotel! After discovering the new shade of black on my feet and
eating popcorn with a little girl talk mixed in...Saturday was over!

Sunday was supposed to be a day of recovery but with all thing comes
room for changes. I finally got to eat at Mothers which is quite
famous in NO due to its block long line...constantly. The food was
everything I needed in my life at that moment. Crawfish Etoufee
omelet, grits, french fries, and biscuits with butter and jam! Talk
about perfect hangover food! And this was such a good change from the
poboys I kept obsessively eating. Following the cure to all my
problems Anna and I went back to the hotel and sat on a wall and
people watched for a good long time! I was asked if I was saved, saw
middle aged women wearing matching purple and yellow argyle tights,
homemade feathery hats, and bedazzled sun glasses, and got to watch
another parade.

Sunday evening led us back to Mike's to watch the Bacchus parade! It
was a ton of fun, I talked to my "husband" about out prenup agreement
and continued to enjoy the delicacy of BudLight! The weather was
chilly, the people were excited and life was good! Following the
parade and a short hotel stop a few of us went to Pat O'Briens...but
did I mention that it had begun to rain?? Oh well cuz it had! This
mean soaked clothes but tons of rain dancing fun. This particular bar
has enough over hangs to keep people dry, but who can resist some good
old bad music dancing.

After meeting a 35 year old man dressed as Tigger it was time to
leave! Sunday was so fun and relaxing, the perfect end before everyone
left.

As most people know, no trip to The Big Easy is complete without a
stop at Cafe Du Monde for some beignets! For the 5 people at out table
we asked for 7 orders...which means I ate 5 beignets...yes I was
slightly hungry and couldn't really control myself. After feeling
mighty satisfied it was time to say goodbye to almost everyone! With
the departure of my old friends, and some new ones I realized I had
just taken part in quite possibly the most fun and random weekend of
my life!

Posted via email from Samantha's Posterous

Fantastic Finds for February

1. myfitfoods.com (austin) --> healthy meals prepared and delivered to your home: from chicken and veggies to atlantic salmon to trail mix. All very reasonable priced with tons of different options

2. Groupon.com --> find the best daily deals in Austin from Daily Juice discounts to laser hair removal, you can save 50-90%!

3. Fage --> Greek Style Yogurt with 19g of protein for 1 cup and only 4.5 grams of fat, wonderful mixed with chopped almonds and dried cranberries. Has a thick texture and can be subsitued for a small meal with a side of veggies or a salad

4. Genisoy sweet crisps/soy crisps --> delicious snack made with soy products but with enough protein to sustain hunger.Forsavory flavors-- try the zesty bar-bq for a great snack or the cinnamon streusel sweet crisps for a great dessert.

5.Annie's Organic Whole Wheat Shells and White Cheddar --> your average mac and cheese with a healthy twist. One Serving has 250 Calories and low fat. I always combine with veggies either sauteed or frozen (the frozen can be added right in with the boiling water towards the end of the cooking time for the pasta) Perfect for a rainy day, or when that craving for comfort food attacks!

 

Just a short list of the things that keep me busy from day to day!

Posted via web from Samantha's Posterous

The ADVENTURE has come to pass!

Posted via web from Samantha's Posterous

Cooking

Cooking is something that more people should embrace earlier on in life. There is so much joy and discovery that comes by creating sustainable food for ourselves! Just a thought!...

Posted via web from Samantha's Posterous

A direction for my LIFE and some updates!

So these past two weeks have been filled with new developments in the life of ME. I think a list is appropriate and easier

1. I have a set date to intern at the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities in DC--> February 25-March 25. This opportunity is going to be amazing and I cannot wait to live in DC for 4 weeks!

2. I will be leaving DC and flying to Phoenix to house sit for my uncle for two weeks. Perfect vacation...although it will be by myself. I will have really great quality time with a book and the pool.

3. I will be working at St. Edward's for almost two weeks as a "secretary" (I don't think that word is PC anymore) but basically scheduling and phones and stuff like that. It will be a great opportunity to work with new people and fun as well to be back on campus.

4. I have met my first babysitting mystery. The child I am supposed to be sitting this week will not entertain the thought of looking at me for more than 30 seconds. This has never happened in all of my years of babysitting! Quite strange, but her mom is very nice about it!

5. I have temporarily moved in with Austin and Jayme and so far it has been great! Park Terrace definately needs its own reality TV show. The people are great and the DRAMA is even better!

6. I have started reading "Are You There Vodka? It's Me Chelsea" by Chelsea Handler. Every time I pick up this book to read I end up looking like a fool because I laugh out loud almost every other page. It really is that funny! An awesome mindless read filled with great insight.

7. I have (sorta) learned to control my shopping and spending habbits. This has been a very challenging process for me as I love to spend money and buy new clothes. Due to my lack of a plan for my near future I really need to be careful of how I spend my hard earned money, although it is almost like pulling teeth!

8. I have decided to try out this whole fitness thing (AGAIN!). So far I have not become obsessed which is a really good thing and it feels great to do something for myself! I have learned that I can workout for 2 hours as long as there is something fantastic on TV.

9. I have become increasingly obsessed with Twitter and finding new social networking/blogs/really cool idea sharing opportunities. A few that I would say are mentionable are Quora and Posterous! Check them out for yourself to see what all of the rage is all about!

10. HAITI. This has been such a dear subject to my life! I was absolutely obsessed with the rest of the world for the last few weeks. It breaks my heart to see the people of Haiti in such a time of pain and suffering. I want to help them so bad. I really want to go in the later part of the Spring to work there, however, that is a prayer that is still being worked out!

So basically what I am saying is LIFE IS WONDERFULLY PERFECT!!! I have tried this whole no manipulation and controlling thing for my life and I think that it has really worked out. I am having a blast and cannot wait for the adventure to continue....MARDI GRAS HERE I COME!

Life Update #1

This will be my last night in my apartment with my wonderfully dear roommate Elyse! Our lease ends tomorrow, but, this is just one end amist a series of new beginnings and the start to my newest adventure!

I will be in Austin until February 5, babysitting and nannying, hanging out with people and relaxing (hopefully finishing a great book on personal finances and great money management tips..but thats another entry)..then the real adventure begins! I will be traveling to Baton Rouge to stay with my dear friend Kristie for about a week and a half..then its on to Mardi Gras 2010 which I am absolutely so excited about! Last year was an amazing experience and this year is goona be even better (many pics to come!)

I will then be leaving Baton Rouge and heading to Austin for my first homecoming as an Alumnus of St. Edward's. Following the wonderful weekend full of catching up with friends and participating in events begins what I have started calling the great mystery!

This great mystery will include graduate school decisions, an internship in Washington DC, possibly a trip to Colorado, and then Phoenix to house sit for my uncle, and could include visiting relatives in Seattle! With so many decisions and lots of fun traveling I just simply cannot wait! This great mystery will soon unfold its course, but until then I hope to soak in every experience I have in the mean time!

An update with more final decision will be coming soon! In the mean time...keep all those in Haiti and those volunteers and doctors giving of their time your prayers.

A Productive Day

So today has been quite a productive day in life of...yours truly. I met a new family I will be nannying for later this month, found a gown for the Endymion ball which is quickly approaching, came up with the greatest sandwich invention ever, laundry, searched for more babysitting/nanny jobs, made tea, checked the mail, and now I get to do my favorite activity...blog and check all of my FB and Twitter stuff.

I find that productivity makes one feel accomplished, energized, and ALIVE...well I guess I feel that way! Crossing items off my never ending to-do list is always such a joy. Now some might call this obsessive, controlling or claim I have complete Type A personality issues going on, but really who doesn't like to see what has been accomplished in a day, week or well, even month, because lets be honest, we all know that to-do lists can be quite idealistic.

The moral of my day and really this entry is that being productive really feels great, especially to an unemployed graduate who is just trying to make things happen. I think I will have to have more days like today a lot more often!

My Life Thus Far...Post College

So this whole graduating thing has so many emotions that follow it--> Boredom, excitement for the future, sadness, stress, happiness, joy, relief....and the list can go on and on! This particular week for me has been very interesting. My apartment lease ends next weekend, I have not signed another lease and have decided to be a nomad for a few weeks, I have discovered the art of finding babysitting and short term nanny jobs on-line which means I have random jobs for most of the month which is a really good thing, not having a real job is kind of weird and its feels strange to say that I am unemployed, I think I have the internship in DC worked out to be able to go sometime in March or April, finding a ball gown is a real challenge when it is not prom season (Mardi Gras Ball is QUICKLY approaching), and to top everything off I just generally am confused about my future because I am trying to not be controlling...BUT all of this is not sad, it is my new adventure and it has been an exciting experience.

On another topic, I really enjoy social media. I really find it interesting this lifestyle that so many of us lead...updating and checking out twitter and facebook accounts endlessly, stalking celebrities day in and day out, and finding most of our news sources from CNN online or from Chelsea Lately. Now I know that this type of social media has its ups and its downs, but I really see the value in this opening of the world. The idea sharing and spreading that takes place truly is magnificent-something I am truly thankful for! So, although being sucked into such cultural ideas can negate more personal relationships, if you don't have a twitter, think about getting one. If not for your friends, for all of the information available, same thing applies to facebook and linkedin, and any other social networking and media sites. (blogging is a great idea too!) I promise you will not regret it!

I guess that is all for now, and I hope that your new year is off to the right start! I sure know that mine is!

Stuff White People Like

Stuff White People Like

As I sat in Baton Rouge this Holiday Break, Kristie's brother Rob asked if we had heard of this website called stuffwhitepeoplelike.com. Immediately I was interested in what kinds of things I am supposed to like, then to my great surprise it was this hilarious list of 130 "ideas" of things white people like. The list includes camping, hating people who wear Ed Hardy, the idea of soccer, unpaid internships, and sea salt...just to name a few.

What I found to be clever after more scrutiny of the website was that each entry had a description and justification as to why white people would like such a thing. For example, the camping description explains that in theory camping should be a very inexpensive activity, yet with white people the more simple it appears the more expensive it really is. My favorite part of this description was the last paragraph were it says, "Ultimately the best way to escape a camping trip with white people is to say that you have allergies. Since white people and their children are allergic to almost everything, they will understand and ask no further questions. You should not say something like “looking at history, the instances of my people encountering white people in the woods have not worked out very well for us.”

Most of the entries to this website are quite witty, however people take offense to some of the things posted. It really is quite amazing what will set a person off, and I do think that some of these things that white people are supposed to like definately do that! Also, there is a full length book on the same topic and if you are interested read the description below>

If you have a minute, take a look at the website. It is a great conversation starter, or maybe a debate starter..either way...its quite comical to find out what white people like!

Stuff White People Like: A Guide to the Unique Taste of Millions
They love nothing better than sipping free-trade gourmet coffee, leafing through the Sunday New York Times, and listening to David Sedaris on NPR (ideally all at the same time). Apple products, indie music, food co-ops, and vintage T-shirts make them weak in the knees.
They pretend to be unique, yet somehow they’re all exactly the same, talking abut how they “get” Sarah Silverman’s “subversive” comedy and Wes Anderson’s “droll” films. They are also down with diversity and up on all the best microbrews, breakfast spots, foreign cinema, and authentic sushi. They’re organic, ironic, and do not own TVs.
You know who they are: They’re white people. And they’re here, and you’re gonna have to deal. Fortunately, here’s a book that investigates, explains, and offers advice for finding social success with the Caucasian persuasion. So lose yourself in the ultimate guide (featuring brand-new entries and extras!) to the unbearable whiteness of being.

Source: http://stuffwhitepeoplelike.com/stuff-white-people-like-the-book/