Just. Let. Go.

One of the last 'prompts' for the month of May- is simple and complicated. React to the phrase- let go.

I'm a control freak- letting go is hard for me. I hold onto a lot of things- mostly things I cannot change but wish I could. I could probably go on for days about this but I think part of letting go- is actually attempting it. So instead of harping on these issues- I'm going to do just that.

Happy Thursday

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Life Songtrack

I love music- I love discovering new artist and my iTunes account is filled from techno, country, disney and oldies. Honestly I love almost all music. However to pick only 5 songs is difficult- so here goes

1. Something Corporate- Me and the Moon. 

This song reminds me of two things. One college days and two my favorite book 'The Lovely Bones'. I  was convinced that the song would be perfect for the song track however Peter Jackson did not agree with me when he ruined my book and made it into a movie. I'll forgive him. Something Corporate is a fantastic band out of SoCal- totally worth a listen.

2. Scenes from an Italian Restaurant- Billy Joel

Ah Billy Joel- you could probably write my whole life soundtrack. This song will always remind me driving to Pennsylvania with my parents to visit my grandparents in the summer. Sweet Memories. Thank god my parents had good taste in music. 

3. In Your Atmosphere- John Mayer

I love this song. It is however a breakup song. I used to joke with Chris that I would dub this our breakup song if it ever happened. Let's hope it doesn't :) It still reminds me of our long distance relationship and I used to play this on the plane on repeat. 

4. Muse- Exogenesis: Symphony, Part 3 (Redemption)

Long name great song. Part symphony- part beautiful lyrics

Let's start over again

Why can't we start it over again?
Just let us start it over again

And we'll be good
This time we'll get it . . .
Get it right

It's our last chance to forgive ourselves

It also just so happens to be featured in '24/7 Penguins vs Capitals; Road to the Winter Classic' which for is a documentary that follows to teams to an annual outdoor hockey game- this was where I meet Chris and this documentary is ofcourse a favorite and we're actually in it!!!

5. Fathoms Below- The Little Mermaid

No judging. I sang this song at the top of my little lungs as is a kid. And all Disney songs for that matter. In fact just for funzies I keep a Disney play list on my itunes account- for a random pick me up. 

BONUS TRACK!

6. And Be Loved- Damien Marley

Such a fun track and it always reminds me of summer on the beach

End to a long weekend

So today's challenge is a letter to readers and honestly it couldn't come at a better time. As I recently mentioned, I invited new readers to my blog. This might not seem like a big deal because to be honest-my blog is public and therefore anyone could stumble across it. However it was to me. It was allowing people who actually know me read my inner thoughts, feeling and struggles. So to new readers welcome. Thanks for stopping by and allowing me to jot down the daily stream of thoughts that constantly roll thru my head. Often times our lives run at 1000 miles an hour and sometimes it nice to stop and gather your thoughts. I hope that you'll stick around or send me a comment or two- I love getting feedback!

Memorial day weekend was fantastic- it was a good weekend to relax, reflect and remember. 

My family has a strong respect and appreciation for the military. My dad was in the Navy for 20 years so we were constantly around it. We know what families go thru during long deployments and adjusting to life when loved ones returned. We know because we lived it. When I was 16 we calculated my Dads sea time- it was over 10 years. My memories however are dropping my father off at his submarine REALLY early and picking him up when he returned- and the smell, like recycled salt water. Funny I probably could pick up that smell anywhere. We lived in constant adjustment, either from moving (luckily we only had a few) or remember what it was like to all be together again. Civilians don't know that feeling but I remember it being a hot topic for my dad- that he always felt like he was intruding back into our lives when he came home. My mom and I didn't mean for it to be like that however when he was gone- our lives didn't stop and when he came home it took time to remember he was there too. I feel bad about that. 

So on Memorial Day I am thankful to those that gave the ultimate sacrifice. I am thankful to those who serve today.

PostSecret

 PostSecret is a collection of secrets, submitted anonymously, from people from all over the world. Every week Frank Warren(creator) receives people's secrets which in turn he post online every Sunday. I check them every week- some will make you laugh, some will make you sad, and others will shock you. I find myself relating to some, while others I  wondering if I know someone who could have written it. Everyone keeps keeps secrets and it's probably why I am facinated by it. Often times I wonder how people could deal handle being responsible for such secrets. I would imagine that even though they are considered anonymous it must be a great relief to tell someone- even to strangers.

Here are a few of my favorite from this week- but if your new to PostSecret check out the multiple books that have been published. Enjoy.

Less then ideal traits

First of all I want to welcome a few special guest readers. Recently I shared my blog with a few good friends via facebook- if they stop by, thanks for taking time to read.

Today's challenge is my 3 worst traits, a perfect time for my newer readers.  I asked Chris and he had PLENTY of ideas. What a gem. Which in turn he replied, 'you asked'. Touché.

1. I'm selfish.
 Maybe it's because I'm an only child, maybe its just me. Whatever it is I know its the sad truth. I love me me me. Confidence is not something I lack nor is the idea that for the most part I come first. I find myself talking about myself then probably asking about your life. I am amazed at you people who are selfless who donate, volunteer. I need to be more like you-

2. I'm controlling
It's my way or the highway pal. Chris deals with this trait day in and day out. I like things MY way- I also believe that my way is the best. I also do not find letting things go with the flow enjoyable. I like plans and I like to follow those plans.

 3. I'm moody
On most days I am l literally all over the map emotionally. Some days I start off my days as pleasant as can be then sometime happens. Maybe its something a work, maybe its just me thinking too hard about something I annoys me.
And then I hate the world. No amount of cupcakes in the world will help me.


Some of you reading this may have experienced some of these traits first hand- others well, there is a me in a bad trait nutshell.

Life Lessons

In my 27 years- there has been disappointment, love, loses, successes and failures. However I still feel that I have a lot to learn- some I might enjoy more then others. These are ones I've learned and are still learning.

* Moving on isn't simple. Everyone says it is and its the one thing I often struggle with. I miss things I miss people. I miss how things were.

* Someone you love at some point will disappoint you. Often times they don't mean too or sometimes they have to. Either way it sucks.

* Take chances- Seriously I wouldn't be in the middle of my wonderful life if I didn't. I am so thankful I took a chance- it paid off. 

* Quality not Quantity of friends- I don't have TONS of friends however the ones I do I am beyond lucky to have in my life. They help me with tough conversations and are always there for a good laugh.

*Bad days are not a bad life- I don't know how many days I had a bad day and somehow I convince myself my life sucks. It doesn't however- in fact it's pretty awesome. I need to remember that. Yeah things could always be better but overall I can't complian

*Enjoy what you have right now! Hard to do but something I try to remember daily. One of my favorite books ( The Art of Racing in the Rain) has the perfect quote and we all know I love quotes:

"People are always worried about what's happening next. They often find it difficult to stand still, to occupy the now without worrying about the future. People are generally not satisfied with what they have; they are very concerned with what they are going to have.” 

Soap Box.

Complaining is a hobby of mine- therefore I have plenty of them.

However my biggest pet peeve is when other try forcing their believes/hobbies on me. So you're a vegan or you love camping, or you think that Taylor Swift lacks talent.  FANTASTIC. No, really, I'm happy for you- now leave me alone.

I think its great that you are eating healthy and trying to save cute animals with cute faces however I am not one of them- I love my food. Bacon, chicken, steak, you name it, I eat it. I don't appreciate your holier then most attitude, in fact, it makes me want to eat MORE of what you avoid. Whole Food shoppers- I'm looking at you. The instant judgement you receive when walking in WITHOUT reusable bags is insane.If you choose to by organic everything and spend 3X the amount- feel free however that's not for me. In all fairness I do believe in eating responsibility in knowing where you get your food but if you choose not to- that's on you. I also know MANY people who have gluten or dairy intolerance- completely different and most time those are the people wishing they could eat whatever they want.

I loathe camping. Sorry I'm not an outdoors person unless I'm on a horse. Camping to me, is pretending to be homeless- I'm good.  But hey if that's your cup of tea pack up the tent and bug repellent and enjoy yourself.

Taylor Swift- I love her. I don't know why, I know many people think she's not talented and whatever. I will be trekking to her concert this year along with the rest of the 14 year olds. Shut it.

I'm not saying I don't appreciate or enjoy others hobbies or opinions however when you start going all 'I'm better then you'
I'm over it.

Bailey got a haircut

From Doodle to Poodle 😑 

I miss her shaggy hair. 

Struggles part 2.

Struggles.

I believe we all have our struggles- I think sometimes what I think is a struggle is a bad day or week which in time passes.

However my biggest struggle,which I've been dealing with for years, has to be my/our decision on whether or not to have kids. I have joked around for years about never wanting kids- instead I'll be a crazy dog lady. However as I'm getting older, I worry that my current state of thinking will alter in 15 years and at that point it will be too late (sorry I don't want to be a 50+ year old mom). I see plenty of friends who are my age who have multiple children, all of which seem happy. Chris wants kids, he's made that clear however not to the point of trying to sway my thinking. I'm just not sure what type of parent I'd be- I'm impatient and have high expectations, not exactly the type of traits you'd want in a parent. Lately we have been talking about it more and passing around the idea along with marriage. For some reason marriage doesn't terrify me the way children do. I know I'm lucky with Chris and that I will never find anyone who tolerates me and loves me the way he does. Kids on the other hand- that's a crap shoot. Say what you will about nature vs nurture but we all know a few kids who are terrors.
Chris and I have talked about resentment towards each other if we do have kids when it wasn't what I wanted and vise verse- nor do I feel that having kids is a compromise. Neither Chris or I us grew up in 'normal' homes with both parents-I believe that we pull what we learned from our parents and either embrace those traits or alter it depending on how it affected us. With us both missing father figures will that alter our parenting? Occasionally I see kids and think- that's crazy that its like a mini version of you just walking around how amazing! Other times I see kids screaming bloody murder and I think- I'll pass.
This is a struggle that I work thru more often then I let on. I feel embarrassed at times that I don't want to be a mother. I remind myself that I love my fur baby Bailey- however ofcourse that is not the same.
I hope that someday something will just hit me and I'll know the answer but for now I'll keep struggling.

To cook or not to cook-

I have a love/ hate relationship with cooking. Sometimes when I've had a long day at work, drinking a glass of wine and/or vodka soda (depending on the day), listening to some Ray LaMontagne (what?! you've never heard of him? well if that's the case do yourself a favor and check him out here) and lose myself in whatever I'm cooking is fantastic. However I lose inspiration quickly. I mean how many chicken dishes can I possibly make before they all taste the same. Lately I've been trying to cook fish at least once a week. One its good for you, two it takes at most 15 minutes to cook and its something different then chicken and beef. We're lucky enough to have Chris's mom send us fresh Salmon from Alaska which is delish and free but we're currently out :(  so I'm struggling even more to decide what I can make.
Chris who is probably the most kitchen awkward person I've ever met  however  he has taken on the challenge- and believe me its a challenge for him- to cook once a week. And in all honestly I applaud his excitement when something he cooked turned out well.
So bloggers I ask does this happen to you. Is it possible to a hit a cookers wall?

Childhood Memories.

I had a amazing childhood- I lived all over the country, went to Disney world, rode horses, played sports, had pets. Seriously picture perfect- I know I was lucky.
However my biggest memory is going to the racetrack with my grandparents in Pennsylvania. I've blogged about this many times but I think its because it's something that has stuck with me.
The racetrack we visited was Penn National- its located in south central Pennsylvania right outside of Harrisburg. Normally we would go for the day but occasionally we would vistit the track at night- those were my favorite. Night races in the summer were always more enjoyable- and at the time I loved racetrack food. My favorite part was going out to the paddock to watch the horses get saddled and the parade. I would pick horses out by how they looked, maybe I liked their color or markings, and without fail my grandparents would place a bet for me for that horse. I remember winning my fair share and even remember winning a long shot due to my methods. I loved it. As I got older I was taught how to read a program - which I can still do like a pro :) I even remember my grandparents saying one day I could be a jockey if I wanted to be- which we soon learned wasn't going to be a possibility since I'm 5'7 and way more then 112 pounds.
Nowadays horse racing isn't the sport it used to be. Drugging horses is a common practice and debates on whether or not the sport is humane is something I struggle with for due to my strong love of the animals. I still watch the big races and pick my favorite and it always brings me back to those race nights. I hope that one day the racing community will clear up its act and it will get back to how I remember it.

Friday Favorite!

I love this picture for muliple reasons.

It's my mom and me.

It was taken in my childhood home in Connecticut

It's Christmas and I'm a Christmas freak

That's all

Book Review- The Night Circus

Ah.Where to start!
First of all I just started reading on the regular again and honestly I forgot how much I missed it. Normally during the summer while at the beach I read at least 8-10 books but since I no longer have that oasis I find it harder to find time to sit down and enjoy it even though the weather here allows for many a rainy afternoons that are perfect for reading.

 I choose Night Circus after meandering thru Barnes and Noble for about an hour.I do not regret my choice- it was amazing. I'm actually sad it ended- I found myself wishing it kept going. However all good things must come to an end. The book itself was detailed but not to the point of boring the reader with details that were mundane. I felt the story flowed along at a pace that was comfortable- not too fast were you felt that you missed details and not too slow where you felt if you skipped a few chapters you wouldn't miss any plot changes.
The book does jump around though the author puts dates so it is easy to follow.Toward the end of the book however it does merge together which I thought was clever. I really liked how the author gave ended chapters with unanswered questions- at times I was afraid I would forget something  however I did not have that feeling when the book ended.
The book itself is going to be made into a movie- but as most book to movie stories I'm sure the book will be better. I'm still interested to see how the present the story and visual arts that take place during the book. Supposedly its coming out in 2014- so we'll see.


I'm left now looking for a new book so if anyone has any suggestions throw them my way!

Only Child Syndrome

My lot of life is something I didn't choose.
I am an only child.

Growing up it was a blessing and curse. Because I was an only child I never went without- I was spoiled rotten- I almost always got what I wanted/needed. I had my parents to myself. I was the center of their universe, which was great as a kid. If I wanted to go somewhere or do something there was no sibling to disagree with me or to have to share with.
This is no truer then when I was 8 and visited my cousins in Pittsburgh for a summer- it was painful sharing and to this day I remember that. Thankfully a little age does wonders!
However if you asked me today- I hated being an only child. I missed having a built in playmate that was around 24/7!
When you are an only child you are treated like a mini adult your whole life, I have always found being around adults comfortable and never had a problem relating to them. I also am very comfortable being alone. I've been to movies alone and went on vacation all by myself. I love me time. In fact, I need alone time to balance myself out.
I hate to admit but I know that sometimes I have a moment of OCS 'only child syndrome' in which I have to remind myself that while I think the world is my oyster there are others around me. I'm interested to see if other only children feel this way or not. Please comment if you are an only child I'd love to hear your thoughts!

Day in my life-

Wednesday- half way thru the week.
My days are pretty basic but I love where I'm at right now. I love our life. Its simple and happy- so while there are days that are tough to get thru I know I'm extremely lucky and I'm grateful.

My days start around 6:30ish- depending on how many times I hit the snooze. I've gotten terrible at this.
I always cuddle with Bailey in the morning, its a routine and who doesn't love waking up to that face

She is however in desperate need of a haircut.

Leave for work to arrive by 8:00ish, depending on traffic and if I have Bailey to drop off at doggy daycare (yes, I know she is spoiled rotten). Drink coffee on my way to work- attempt not to spill it on me or on my car. I have a love/hate relationship with dressing for work. Today however I love my shoes from Banana Republic- and on sale. Win Win!

Get to work,check emails, responding to emails, set up everyone for the day, morning meetings. Breakfast. More checking emails, more responding to emails. Conference calls. Lunch. Blogging. Checking the news. Checking twitter, checking facebook. Afternoon check on employees, questions, concerns, putting out fires. Work on to do list for myself and for others for tomorrow.

 Trust and Verify- leave between 4:30-5:00pm. Hit traffic. Enjoy the view. Call someone from home- Ashley, Mom, Gram etc.

Mt. Rainer.

Get home- cook dinner/go out depending on how bad the day was and how motivated I am. Watch the news, read, play with bailey. Time with Chris- zzzzzz.



Tough Tuesday and Happy Things

It's not even noon and it's been a long day. Work has been stressful to say the least (Tuesdays are always my worst day) and my favorite hockey team was killed last night in the playoffs and thus eliminating them. So today's challenge of what makes me happy is needed.

Chris- when he's not doing anything that was listed here.

The Beach- clinche but seriously nothing is more relaxing to me

Bailey puppy- even if I'm having a bad day she's always excited to see me and cuddle

Work (except today) because I like feeling accomplished

Trying new restaurants- especially when we travel

Tea- I consider myself a tea snob :)

Horseback riding- I don't do it enough especially since all the barns are up north :(

Connecticut- Nothing compares to home

Movie/TV Soundtracks- weird I know but I love discovering new artist or types of music

Me time- I'm an only child I NEED time to myself in order to keep myself sane and I love it

Happy Tuesday Bloggers- may your Tuesday be less stressful then mine :)

Lo Siento

Jenni's challenge today is issue a public apology- I read hers and realized that Chris who puts up with my crazy all day every day deserves an award however an aplogy is a start.
Often times when I tell friends or co workers about daily living with me they respond with 'Poor Chris' and in all honestly they're normally right.
I'm difficult to deal with. I don't tolerate much, I think I'm always right and I have a bad temper....I'm such a gem.

So I'm sorry Chris for being OCD to the extreme and freak out when something is out of place or threatening to burn your clothes when they're not put away.
I'm sorry for being grumpy gills when I have a bad day at work- and bringing work home
I'm sorry for taking things too seriously when my hockey team loses
I'm sorry for snapping when I mumble something and then when you ask me what I said- I repeat it by yelling.(yikes)
I'm sorry for taking you for granted and not appreciate you when you do the little things- like picking me up a cupcake when I've had a bad day or buying me dinner you know I love (Gyros yumm)
I'm sorry I hate your football team
I'm sorry I'm a roller coaster of emotions-most of which you have no idea how to handle at any given moment but try anyways.
I'm sorry I hold onto things that don't matter and feel the need to bring them up at any given time.
I'm sorry for driving you crazy with my Indecisiveness  about movies, restaurants, ideas for vacations and overall life decisions.
I'm sorry for my smart ass comments when they probably aren't needed- most of the time
I'm sorry for giving you a hard time about your work hours that do not coodinrate perfectly with mine
I'm sorry for having a bad temper and not keeping in check as much as I should. 
I'm sorry for thinking I'm always right - even though let's be honest I am 98% of the time
I'm sorry for being so difficult that at times I'm sure you want to kill me but instead you remain calm and collected- while I freak out.


I'm sure I'm sorry for a lot more but since now I've painted a fun picture someone who is crazy, neurotic, self centered- I'll call that good.

SORRY CHRIS!
xoxo

I miss.

Early this week I technically I already answered this in my Homesick post. However I think more of what I miss is the familiarity of home. Like knowing the backroads, the shortcuts home, the times when to avoid the highway because of Cape Code traffic. Being able to know where to get the best seafood, greek food, or pizza without having to Yelp it.  Knowing that in August the ocean water will be warm enough for the jellyfish to start making their way into Long Island Sound. Or that the 2nd weekend in July is Sailfest- which is one of the biggest fireworks displaces on the East Coast. 

I miss summer. Summers' in the New England are amazing- normally hot days followed by cooler nights that allow you (most nights) to sleep with the windows open. My mom's house is in Niantic, which is a beach community and in the summer tourist fill our town year after year for our beaches, fresh seafood, and small town feel. I'm hoping that eventually I'll find my little niches here I like- similar to Grace or Sailfest. I know WA will never been home but while I'm here I might as well enjoy what I can. 

10 words.

I'm in sales so this should be easy right? It's not. 

However, I have always been a fairy confident person so here's my list:

Hard working

Loyal

High Energy

Strong willed

"Firecracker"- says my mom

Charming

Confident

Smart

Ambitious

Sarcastic- this is ALWAYS a plus in my eyes!

Fabulous :)  

Tomorrow we blog about our worst traits. Oh boy. 

Happy Saturday everyone!

Well hello Jerry er... Gary?

I work in the home health care field meaning I often times go out to clients home for visits and to meet them for the first time.
I take a call from a client who is looking for services for his wife who is terminally ill with stage 4 breast cancer. Side note: I work with medically intense children and end of life care daily which really makes you appreciate your life and how lucky your are. Count your blessings.
Continuing- The client said their name was 'Jerry' which could be male or female however on the phone the client had a very feminine voice and therefore, I assumed, they were a gay couple. I head out to their home and to my surprise Jerry is a guy who just happens to have a very high pitched voice. While this is embarrassing enough during our meeting I find his name is GARY not Jerry and he continues to tell me that it is very often that people assume he is a women on the phone- like myself. I felt my face turn bright red and I awkwardly tried to change the subject. I left the home feeling like such a schmuck. End of story.

Homesick- a year later

It's way past my bedtime but I cannot sleep. Perhaps its because I started reading The Night Circus and I cannot stop reading it and then when I do I wonder what's going to happen next. For those of you looking for a book to read I highly recommend it.
Moving on.
Its been a year since I moved 3,000 miles across the country from everyone and everything I know and love. It's been a hard year -I'd be lying if I said its been rainbows and sunshine-especially since we live in Seattle and rain and clouds are more of our weather patterns. With that being said for the first time since I first moved here- I miss home. I've been catching up with friends from home. I miss their friendship and catching up with them at a favorite restaurant or bar. I miss my mom whom I've become increasingly close with other the past few years, even though she gives me constant guilt trips. I miss my town. I miss my beach. It's official I'm homesick. The weird thing is that it just started today on my way home while sitting in traffic. Ashley and I were texting our normal rambles about our day and she mentioned another mutual friend who I haven't talked to in a while. I texted him and he mentioned he just thought of me too :( I caught up with my old boss this week and it was like I never left.
I do not regret moving here but tonight my heart is in CT.

Moment in life.

This wasn't taken today but on last Sunday. Glorious Sunday. We went downtown Seattle for fresh oysters, flowers at pikes and ice cream. Perfection

Take pride in how far you have come. Have faith in how far you can go.

I didn't think that blogging daily would be difficult- well this week has been crazy at work AND the Stanley cup playoffs started so its been challenging.


Today's post is on 'a piece of advise for others'
Carpe Diem. While it might mean seize the day- I believe in seizing the opportunities given and running with them. I believe in taking chances- A year ago this week I move to Seattle to be with Chris and to start in a new office. It's risky- however I'm so glad I did it. My promotion wouldn't have happened without it. I also don't know where it would have left Chris and I. I think we'd still be together but doing long distance for years on end is tough and it takes its toll on any relationship. I believe things happen for a reason. So my advise is take a risk- sometimes you gain something- like a lesson, a friend, an adventure. At least you know you did it and you are strong enough to do it again.

Yesterdays post was on things that you are afraid of. Well the usual; spiders, heights, someone I love dying. However those aren't probably my biggest fear. I fear failure, especially in my professional life. My career means a lot to me. I have been with my company for almost 4 years, I've been promoted almost every year- and I'm now a manager. I have worked hard to get where I'm at and take pride that I started in a entry level job and moved up thru the ranks to where I am now. I transferred to two offices and another state with this company and was still able to get make this work. I'm proud of myself but I am terrified I'll screw it up. This week I had that scare- to be honest I don't make mistakes often. I work hard, I expect my team to work hard and we are successful. However this past week I, and my team dropped the ball and it almost cost us a client. My boss came down on my, which I am not used too and I handled it well on the outside but on the inside I was freaking out. That night I didn't sleep well- I woke up early and worked my ass off for hours until I secured it myself. Even though it wasn't my job I made it my job. I made sure the error was corrected. Failure is not an option.

2 for 1.

Yesterday was absolutely beautiful here in Seattle so Chris and I were outside all day, hence today is a 2 for 1 blog


1 of 2:
I don't have any followers nor follow anyone :( It's not because I don't want to but rather I'm pretty new at this and enjoy just the free writing.  Maybe one day :)
With that said, I do have a best friend who I would be lost without. Ashley. She is my best friend and sadly lives in Connecticut. When I first moved here I was afraid that I would lose her friendship due to fact that we're now 3,000 miles away. However, friendship I was shown has no boarders and we talk multiple times a week almost like I never left. I miss going out with her and seeing her but its good to know that I have a friend that has sticked with me thru thick and thin. <3


2 of 2: what I do.
I work too much- and care more then I should
I laugh
I cry
I drink.... a lot
I eat- even more.
I miss home
I am making new friends
I have a strange sense of humor
I love animals
I love hockey- it's how I met C :)
I read
I write
I love the sun
I tolerate the rain


However, moreover I think what I do best is remembering random information that has no relevance whatsoever. Random fact fill my days. At work I love having strange conversations or debates that one of my little facts fit into. Or remembering every Disney character that there ever was. Got a random fact, I wanna know it.

Derby Saturday

I've posted before but the Kentucky Derby is one of my favorite events all year long. While not all horse racing is as prestigious as the Derby I still see it as the sport of Kings. Every year my family watches the WHOLE derby broadcast, mostly because I love hearing the stories about all the different jockeys, owners, and horses. Normally I don't bet on the race- I simple enjoy picking a favorite and hoping for a triple crown winner. This year I might make a little bit of gamble- I'm not sure who I'm going to pick. I like GoldenCents. First of all he was bought for $5,500 which is peanuts in the horse world. Also he picked the #8 spot which is my favorite hockey players number (Alex Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals) However his trainer- Doug O'Neill has been accused and fined for drugging his horses- which I am strongly against. So I still have a few more hours to decide. In all honestly, I just want to see a horse win the Triple Crown which includes the Kentucky Derby, Preakness, Belmont stakes. Since Secretariat was the last to do so, I'm eager to see at least one in my lifetime.

 

May Days #3 Favorite Quote

This is probably the easiest and hardest post for me. I love quotes- I love pretty words or how sometimes words put together can be just what you needed. Sometimes quotes are what links us, knowing that at some point someone put down what you were feeling. I keep quotes books. I started when I was in high school and its funny to go through them now and from the entries, be able to tell what I'm going through. It's a quote diary of sorts- giving snapshots of my emotions with words not from me but from others. Its comforting.


Oscar Wilde is by far my favorite quote artist. At times he's funny, other time he's thoughtful or enlightening. Hence, here is my favorite:

I love this quote. I think the reason I love it so is because it's something I struggle with. Sometimes, I admit, I am judgmental. I need to realize that everyone has a past and regardless of what they used to be, it doesn't necessary mean they are now. Its a tough lesson but this is always a reminder.

Let's go back to what I'm good at

After posting yesterday about what I'm good at or know a lot about I realized I really should have talked about my amazing skills of online stalking.

Like most females I consider myself a pro athlete at this. I literally amaze myself with the information I can dig up on someone with the littlest of information. I won't go into the details of who I stalk- for all I know they also stalk and are reading this as we speak, however I will give you some details of how you too can become a elite stalker.

First of all the number one rule of cyber stalking is to NOT get caught. A accidental like or friend request sent on facebook can be detrimental to your stalking and also is just down right creepy. So to avoid this at all cost stalking is not something that should  be done in an altered state of mind such as after a night of drinking. This will only increase mistakes and your chances for being caught.

Rule number two: remember anything you learned via Internet isn't something that person told you. If you interact with this person on the regular its important you don't accidental leak a piece of information you learned while stalking. That's how restraining orders are implemented.

Third, stalking is an art- finding their fb page usually only results in a the basics unless you're lucky and they have all their photos public (it feels like Christmas morning). But fb is an ideal place to start because you can obtain the basics and from that dig deeper.

Blogs, YouTube videos, Google +, area all great next steps to take your stalking to the next level. Pretty soon its like you actually know the person!

Finally, in all seriousness I'm not a psycho stalker to flies to stalk ex girlfriends or anything like that (even though its crossed my mind) so most of my stalking is done out of fun and pure curiosity. I'm a firm believer that people on a whole are curious folk and I'm just a promoter!


Happy Friday and Happy Stalking!

Well this is awkward.

Toughest thing to watch; someone being awkward. For example, Chris and I watched True Life last night and the episode was on social anxiety. It was painful for me to watch. Watching someone struggle makes me uncomfortable because how do you help them? If someone is stuttering, I find it rude to just finish their sentence....or is it? Maybe additional help is what they are looking for! But how am I suppose to know that?! Do I help the situation or is it rude if I jump out to help an awkward person out? This whole idea makes me uncomfortable and well gives me anxiety. I can't handle it.

Also awkward is watching sex scenes with my mom, you know, during movies. Two Christmas's ago my mom, Chris and I went to see 'Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' and there is terrible rape scene. Its awkward, do you watch it? Do you pretend you have to pee or need more sour patch kids? Completely uncomfortable. I would like to consider myself a pretty open person with my mom but to this day, this topic will remain uncomfortable.

Equestrian

Day 2: Something you're good at or know a lot about.

Here's the thing- in all honestly I feel like I'm decent at most things, I don't mean that in a condescending way but I was luckily enough to be athletic, have common sense and for the most part am well educated. So because I'm decent at alot of things I don't think I'm an expert at alot. I have lots of interest and random knowledge (I can name all Disney movies, characters, songs, and probably non relative Disney trivia) However my biggest passion most of my life has been horseback riding or more correctly equestrian. Now, I know what your thinking:

 

                                                                            Or

And now horseback riding can encompass both of theses images, its not what I do. I ride hunter/jumper- 

I started when I was 8 and learned the basics of a horse. Everything from how to measure a horse which is in hands, which is 4 inches (per hand) or that horses have multiple gaits for different disciplines. For example for Western Pleasure, its walk, trot and loop. For English- its walk, trot, working trot, and canter. I learned how to ride without stirrups which builds muscle strength and also is uncomfortable the next day. Also almost everyone who doesn't ride assumes you take a horse to a fence and it just jumps it. Not true. Riding is all about looking like you're sitting there when in fact you're constantly giving the horse commands thru your hands, legs and seat (butt). Jumping requires both horse and rider to be in sync to see the same distance (or take off point) as each other. Its geometry and seeing the angle of which you take off and if you'll clear the fence in front of you. Yes, I've been thrown, and yes I've scared my mom to death a few times but I always got back on. 

Equestrian is in the Summer Olympics and it brings some of the biggest household names. Bruce Springsteen's daughter rides, so does the heir to Firestone tires. Prince Harry and Williams' cousin also rides for England. Its expensive, to the point of absurdity. The best horse's in the world go for over six figures and its not uncommon for some of the best riders to have multiple horses. Regardless of the price most riders do it not for the ribbons, or possible medals but for the feeling of being on the back of a huge animal and knowing you can complete something as one. It's amazing- and if you ever get the chance to try it TAKE IT.

May Day 1

Decided to go for this- Fun May Challenge from a new blog I discovered so here we go!

Day 1: the story of your life in 250 words or less. Yikes, here we go.

November, 5, Virginia, only child, ketchup, broken leg, winter Olympics, NAVY, Grams house, Charlie, favorite house, Disneyworld, San Diego, lasagna roof, horseback riding, Delmar, jiggy, moving on my birthday, cross on the mountain, san bernardo, cheerleading, mom as coach, wet n wild,  Disneyland, submariners, deployments, circle school, moving, connecticut, Hobbes, 4th grade, UCONN, new kid, high school, henry, horseshows, bmw, lacrosse, first job, beach days and late nights, basketball, graduation, champ, , moving, beach, summer, back porch, summer 2004, savannah, wedding, ARMY deployments ,end of things, new beginnings, tough endings, 7/1/06, corvette, Shippensburg, fair, old friends ,new friends, Ashley, mom, lack of dad,bad decisions, tough lessons, growing pains, sad, new job, new career, 3/14/10, RIP, drive in movies, lack of understanding, las vegas, hockey awards, Margaret, life changing, hockey, Pittsburg, new year’s, family, cousins, Ovechkin, Crosby, penguin cake, miller, mccall, Chris, winter classic, 1/1/11, fate, love, 1/9/11 long distance relationships, year one, las vegas, to move or not to move, soccer and sandcastles, driving across country, badlands, mother daughter trip, Seattle, Mercer, new city, new job, new beginnings, anger, disappointment, jealousy, fights, adjustments, ex girlfriends, SC,  san diego christmas in connecticut, new years in Connecticut, new puppy, Bailey moving, promotion, manager, 27, puppy trials, rings, engagments, weddings, disneyworld, high expectaions, one year.


Its hard to come up with 27 years worth of memories into words- a lot of good and bad, but so far a nice little life <3