First love and first kiss, huh? How embarrassing!
I won't go into too many details on this one, because well, I'd rather not. His name was Matt, it was 8th grade graduation, and we kissed in front of our parents. How lame! I think it was supposed to be a joke. He was from Tampa, FL. I saw him a couple times after that weekend, but haven't heard from him since. No big loss, right?
First love... the first guy that I will always consider my first love was Brandon S. He was my high school boyfriend, and I went with him to his senior prom as a sophomore. The last I heard, he joined the Army and had gotten married, but I haven't heard from him in YEARS!
Showing posts with label 30 Day Blog Challenge. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 30 Day Blog Challenge. Show all posts
Friday, June 17, 2011
Thursday, June 16, 2011
30 Day Blog Challenge - Day 9
Today's topic (day 9) is... "how you hope your future will be like."
Well, let's see. This post reminds me a lot of day 2, where I'd like to be in the next 10 years. It doesn't differ much from that.
#1. I'd like to own a home, so that I can spend time (my free time) dabbling in home decorating, furniture refinishing, etc. And mostly, because I'd like a stable place to call home.
#2. A successful career as a CPA.
#3. A child or two. Maybe even a foster parent if biological children aren't in my future.
#4. Debt free. Or close to it.
#5. Still as super close to my mom, Lindsey, and Carie as I am now. :o)
I'm not super big into material things, so I don't need a 2 caret diamond ring, a fancy Mercedes or Lexus. But really - I just want to be happy. Content with my life, my career, and my relationship.
Well, let's see. This post reminds me a lot of day 2, where I'd like to be in the next 10 years. It doesn't differ much from that.
#1. I'd like to own a home, so that I can spend time (my free time) dabbling in home decorating, furniture refinishing, etc. And mostly, because I'd like a stable place to call home.
#2. A successful career as a CPA.
#3. A child or two. Maybe even a foster parent if biological children aren't in my future.
#4. Debt free. Or close to it.
#5. Still as super close to my mom, Lindsey, and Carie as I am now. :o)
I'm not super big into material things, so I don't need a 2 caret diamond ring, a fancy Mercedes or Lexus. But really - I just want to be happy. Content with my life, my career, and my relationship.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
30 Day Blog Challenge - Day 8
Day 8 Blog Challenge: A moment you felt the most satisfied with your life.
Easy. The day of my college graduation with my Bachelor's degree. You see - I was the first person in my family to complete that degree. I had the backing of my entire family who couldn't have been more proud to see/hear/know that I was finally achieving that dream. Graduation and walking across the stage was still surreal though, and I can't wait to do it again with my second Master's!
Easy. The day of my college graduation with my Bachelor's degree. You see - I was the first person in my family to complete that degree. I had the backing of my entire family who couldn't have been more proud to see/hear/know that I was finally achieving that dream. Graduation and walking across the stage was still surreal though, and I can't wait to do it again with my second Master's!
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
30 Day Blog Challenge - Day 7
Day 7 Challenge... Your Zodiac Sign, and if you think it fits you.
I was born on May 11th, so that makes me a Taurus. There are certain aspects of the Taurus sign that really fit me, and some that couldn't be more off base.
I went to this website to find out more about the Taurus sign.
Taurus Strengths:
dependable (yes), persistent (uh huh), loyal (very), generous (extremely), patient (not so much)
Taurus Weaknesses:
stubborn (extremely), lazy (ha! have you met me?! i'm so far from lazy), possessive (i can be), materialistic (i try not to be, but i probably am), self-indulging (sometimes)
I don't know that I agree with the fact that I'm not a leader - because I am. But many of these traits fit me to a t! I don't mind being alone, in fact, I usually enjoy it. I want things done my way. I'm stubborn to a fault, and demand perfection, but mostly of myself.
A Taurus is an excellent friend. Taurus has few close friends as opposed to many acquaintances. The few people they hold dear to them are guarded and protected. Their friends are treated like family and they are fiercely loyal and dependable. Taurus loves to be the host or hostess. Although not a total social butterfly, they can be shy around strangers, the people who Taurus let into their lives are lavishly catered to when Taurus decides to throw a party, they decorate and present everything lavishly. Taurus will always pamper themselves and their close group of friends.
This is VERY much me as far as the friendship aspect goes. I only have a few close friends, and I honestly wouldn't trade it for the world. I have two amazingly close friends in my life that I truly consider sisters. I do love to host parties, mostly for the planning aspect of it. And I definitely pamper myself and my friends when I can.
Taurus is a strong business person. Taurus is the one who has immense perseverance, even when others have given up, the Taurus rages on. They have a knack for finance and their financial advice is prized. They know where money is to be made and have the ability to manipulate and set the path for their own success. Taurus are not frivolous spenders but they like to live lavishly and surround themselves with nice possessions and foods, which all adds up resulting in large spending habits. They will not spend all their money and cause their business to fail because if they do, their security and stability will be gone and this will cause them great stress.
This is mostly true, but I only say that because I'm not a business owner. I am in the financial field, so I guess that's a positive attribute of a Taurus. :o) Hopefully, I picked the right career! I do like to live "lavishly," I suppose, and I'm definitely a food snob. Hah.
Taurus are deeply sensitive, the slightest comment or negative remark will be taken personally and they can easily get offended or hurt. Their stubborn streak results in laziness. They can be very lazy when someone gives them orders or wants them to do something they do not want to do. They are not lazy when it comes to themselves,
I do tend to take things too personally, when I should probably be more opt to let them roll of my back. I'm stubborn, I won't lie, and while the website determines that that stubborn streak turns to laziness, I think it's the fact that I'm not willing to be push around. I don't mind doing the things I'm asked at work, home, etc. and I definitely pull my weight, but I'm not willing to succumb to anyone's demands especially when they talk down to me.
Taurus are not fond of change. In fact, is change is imminent, they get very nervous and worried. They do not like anything new because anything new is unknown and Taurus fears the unknown. Taurus needs order in their lives and when they do not have order, they get very anxious. Taurus will cut themselves off from the unfamiliar in order to avoid the feelings of insecurity that arise when new experiences and situations are present. Taurus do not express their feelings openly and their inner self is contained and secretive. Many people do not know how sensitive Taurus really is, they hide it well. As a result, they are often emotionally hurt when the wrong things are said, they take things too personally sometimes. Taurus avoids talking about their emotions and many people never really know how they feel.
Change doesn't necessarily bother me, but I do feel anxious when I'm unsure of the change. For instance, currently we are unsure what we're going to do with our apartment, if we're going to move, renew our lease, etc. and that thought makes me nervous. But only because if we move, we're moving the weekend of the first class of the Fall 2011 semester where I'm taking 9 hours, and I hate to give up the reigns to something important like moving to anyone else. It's the control side of me.
Taurus is the one who has immense perseverance, even when others have given up, the Taurus rages on. Solid and persistent, just like the bull, which is Taurus' well suited symbol. Taurus's have a well known reputation for being stubborn, which is not necessarily a bad thing. The stubborn streak can cause Taurus to butt heads and conflict with other strong character types. Taurus are not fond of change. They like the familiar and routine comfort of life. Taurus is easy going and not one to pick a fight but should some poor souls attempt to provoke Taurus, the wrath will be known, for they have a temper underneath the calm surface. Taurus are very responsive to their surroundings. They like decorations, color, anything that appeals to all the senses. Taurus like possessions and the Taurus home is nicely decorated with lots of things. Taurus are down to earth, they do not like gaudy, flashy or over the top things. They prefer comfortable and creative settings and objects. Taurus likes security, in every aspect of their lives from home, to love, to career. Taurus can be secretive, opinionated and stingy. Taurus tend to be self-indulgent and lazy, Taurus are master procrastinators of the astrology zodiac! They do however have a strong, persistent drive that comes to life when they chose, and no one would ever know that they are lazy. The secret to this is that their laziness is pushed aside when it comes to themselves.
I would say that honestly, for the most part, the Taurus symbol couldn't fit me any closer if I wrote it myself.
I was born on May 11th, so that makes me a Taurus. There are certain aspects of the Taurus sign that really fit me, and some that couldn't be more off base.
I went to this website to find out more about the Taurus sign.
Taurus Strengths:
dependable (yes), persistent (uh huh), loyal (very), generous (extremely), patient (not so much)
Taurus Weaknesses:
stubborn (extremely), lazy (ha! have you met me?! i'm so far from lazy), possessive (i can be), materialistic (i try not to be, but i probably am), self-indulging (sometimes)
Taurus is not the one who ventures out into the unknown and leads the way, Taurus is the one that will follow the leader and strengthen and build upon the discovered, in other words they are the one that will "dot the I's and cross the T's". This perseverance is given to them by their stubborn streak. Taurus stubborn streak is what gives their independence. They like to do things their way. They are perfectly fine on being alone, this way things get done they way they want them to be done. Taurus is not a follower, but they are not the brave one either. Taurus is perfectly independent. With their perseverance, they get things done and can do quite well for themselves.
I don't know that I agree with the fact that I'm not a leader - because I am. But many of these traits fit me to a t! I don't mind being alone, in fact, I usually enjoy it. I want things done my way. I'm stubborn to a fault, and demand perfection, but mostly of myself.
A Taurus is an excellent friend. Taurus has few close friends as opposed to many acquaintances. The few people they hold dear to them are guarded and protected. Their friends are treated like family and they are fiercely loyal and dependable. Taurus loves to be the host or hostess. Although not a total social butterfly, they can be shy around strangers, the people who Taurus let into their lives are lavishly catered to when Taurus decides to throw a party, they decorate and present everything lavishly. Taurus will always pamper themselves and their close group of friends.
This is VERY much me as far as the friendship aspect goes. I only have a few close friends, and I honestly wouldn't trade it for the world. I have two amazingly close friends in my life that I truly consider sisters. I do love to host parties, mostly for the planning aspect of it. And I definitely pamper myself and my friends when I can.
Taurus is a strong business person. Taurus is the one who has immense perseverance, even when others have given up, the Taurus rages on. They have a knack for finance and their financial advice is prized. They know where money is to be made and have the ability to manipulate and set the path for their own success. Taurus are not frivolous spenders but they like to live lavishly and surround themselves with nice possessions and foods, which all adds up resulting in large spending habits. They will not spend all their money and cause their business to fail because if they do, their security and stability will be gone and this will cause them great stress.
This is mostly true, but I only say that because I'm not a business owner. I am in the financial field, so I guess that's a positive attribute of a Taurus. :o) Hopefully, I picked the right career! I do like to live "lavishly," I suppose, and I'm definitely a food snob. Hah.
Taurus are deeply sensitive, the slightest comment or negative remark will be taken personally and they can easily get offended or hurt. Their stubborn streak results in laziness. They can be very lazy when someone gives them orders or wants them to do something they do not want to do. They are not lazy when it comes to themselves,
I do tend to take things too personally, when I should probably be more opt to let them roll of my back. I'm stubborn, I won't lie, and while the website determines that that stubborn streak turns to laziness, I think it's the fact that I'm not willing to be push around. I don't mind doing the things I'm asked at work, home, etc. and I definitely pull my weight, but I'm not willing to succumb to anyone's demands especially when they talk down to me.
Taurus are not fond of change. In fact, is change is imminent, they get very nervous and worried. They do not like anything new because anything new is unknown and Taurus fears the unknown. Taurus needs order in their lives and when they do not have order, they get very anxious. Taurus will cut themselves off from the unfamiliar in order to avoid the feelings of insecurity that arise when new experiences and situations are present. Taurus do not express their feelings openly and their inner self is contained and secretive. Many people do not know how sensitive Taurus really is, they hide it well. As a result, they are often emotionally hurt when the wrong things are said, they take things too personally sometimes. Taurus avoids talking about their emotions and many people never really know how they feel.
Change doesn't necessarily bother me, but I do feel anxious when I'm unsure of the change. For instance, currently we are unsure what we're going to do with our apartment, if we're going to move, renew our lease, etc. and that thought makes me nervous. But only because if we move, we're moving the weekend of the first class of the Fall 2011 semester where I'm taking 9 hours, and I hate to give up the reigns to something important like moving to anyone else. It's the control side of me.
Taurus is the one who has immense perseverance, even when others have given up, the Taurus rages on. Solid and persistent, just like the bull, which is Taurus' well suited symbol. Taurus's have a well known reputation for being stubborn, which is not necessarily a bad thing. The stubborn streak can cause Taurus to butt heads and conflict with other strong character types. Taurus are not fond of change. They like the familiar and routine comfort of life. Taurus is easy going and not one to pick a fight but should some poor souls attempt to provoke Taurus, the wrath will be known, for they have a temper underneath the calm surface. Taurus are very responsive to their surroundings. They like decorations, color, anything that appeals to all the senses. Taurus like possessions and the Taurus home is nicely decorated with lots of things. Taurus are down to earth, they do not like gaudy, flashy or over the top things. They prefer comfortable and creative settings and objects. Taurus likes security, in every aspect of their lives from home, to love, to career. Taurus can be secretive, opinionated and stingy. Taurus tend to be self-indulgent and lazy, Taurus are master procrastinators of the astrology zodiac! They do however have a strong, persistent drive that comes to life when they chose, and no one would ever know that they are lazy. The secret to this is that their laziness is pushed aside when it comes to themselves.
I would say that honestly, for the most part, the Taurus symbol couldn't fit me any closer if I wrote it myself.
Monday, June 13, 2011
30 Day Blog Challenge - Day 6
30 interesting facts about me, huh? Oh my. This one is going to be tough. They may end up being more random than interesting, but here goes nothing.
1. I was the first person in my family to graduate with a Bachelor's Degree. I was also the first person to graduate with a Master's Degree.
2. I'm only 5'4". I used to wear heels ALL THE TIME to feel taller. Now, I just don't care. I'm a flip flop and flat sandals kind of girl.
3. I'm obsessed with cakes, lately. I've graduated from Levels 1 and 2 of the Wilton Cake Decorating class. I'm in the midst of taking Level 3. I'm not very good, but I enjoy it, so I guess that's all that matters, right?!
4. My favorite color is pink. Someday, when we buy a house, if we have separate closets, I want a pink, black, and silver closet. My husband hopes I change my mind.
5. I have PCOS. It sucks. Luckily, I have THREE amazing doctors who are working to help me get past it/through it/whatever.
6. I'm a momma's girl. Even at 28.
7. I love to read!! I always, always, always have either a book or my iPad with me. And sometimes both! I'm currently reading two books at the same time, because well, I'm just that cool.
8. I'm also a book blogger. Check it out. www.thebibliophilesdigest.wordpress.com I need to make some serious updates though. I'm behind.
9. I have two of the BEST friends a girl could ask for! I wouldn't change either of them for the world, and I thank God daily for both of them. Carie and Lindsey - you both ROCK!
10. I passed the state board exam to get my cosmetology license in 2001. I used it for about 6 months, while working at Toni & Guy. Decided I hated it - and went into accounting instead.
11. I love bananas!
12. I'm attempting to run a half marathon (well, run/walk a half marathon) in November 2011. I'm scared.
13. My favorite food is Mexican food.
14. I'm obsessed with chai tea lattes (or frapps) from Starbucks. So yummy! In fact, I'm drinking one now, while eating a banana.
15. I really want to buy an old piece of furniture and refinish it, but I can't find the "perfect" piece yet. So I'm still on the hunt.
16. I set monthly "goals" for myself. I rarely finish them. But it's the thought that counts, right?!
17. I'm organized to a fault, even my calendars are color-coded.
18. I'm a retired Army's Sergeant's wife. Crazy, huh?
19. I looooooooooooooooove sweets. Probably why my behind is so big, but still! They are my downfall. Must. Have. Sugar!
20. Sometimes, I amaze even myself with how much I've changed physically and mentally over the last few years. It's mind boggling to think of all the things that are different.
21. I hate fish. (I don't mind eating them, well, some of them... mostly just salmon, trout, and tuna) but I will NOT touch them. Imagine trying to go camping/fishing with your husband when you refuse to take the fish off the hook.
22. I want kids. I'd even be okay with adoption or fostering.
23. I type 95 wpm.
24. My graduate paper (not even a thesis) was 82 pages long, including references. It took me an entire semester to write, and was over Apple, Inc. Exciting huh? I told you I loved Apple!
25. Speaking of Apple, I never leave home without my iPad and iPhone. It's an addiction. Clearly, I enjoy being "connected!"
26. I hate watching the news. It's always bad. Nothing good. Always negative. I need some positive news sometimes, people!
27. I check my Google reader for new blog posts from friends/family/strangers several times a day.
28. I get my nails and my toes done, every two weeks, without fail.
29. I'm working on my second Master's. Sometimes, I think I'll never be finished with school. And when I am finished, I'd like to find a teaching position at a local community college or university.
30. I've never been out of the United States, but I hope to change that in 2012. I'm trying to convince the ol' husband we need a 5 year vow renewal ceremony on the beach somewhere.
1. I was the first person in my family to graduate with a Bachelor's Degree. I was also the first person to graduate with a Master's Degree.
2. I'm only 5'4". I used to wear heels ALL THE TIME to feel taller. Now, I just don't care. I'm a flip flop and flat sandals kind of girl.
3. I'm obsessed with cakes, lately. I've graduated from Levels 1 and 2 of the Wilton Cake Decorating class. I'm in the midst of taking Level 3. I'm not very good, but I enjoy it, so I guess that's all that matters, right?!
4. My favorite color is pink. Someday, when we buy a house, if we have separate closets, I want a pink, black, and silver closet. My husband hopes I change my mind.
5. I have PCOS. It sucks. Luckily, I have THREE amazing doctors who are working to help me get past it/through it/whatever.
6. I'm a momma's girl. Even at 28.
7. I love to read!! I always, always, always have either a book or my iPad with me. And sometimes both! I'm currently reading two books at the same time, because well, I'm just that cool.
8. I'm also a book blogger. Check it out. www.thebibliophilesdigest.wordpress.com I need to make some serious updates though. I'm behind.
9. I have two of the BEST friends a girl could ask for! I wouldn't change either of them for the world, and I thank God daily for both of them. Carie and Lindsey - you both ROCK!
10. I passed the state board exam to get my cosmetology license in 2001. I used it for about 6 months, while working at Toni & Guy. Decided I hated it - and went into accounting instead.
11. I love bananas!
12. I'm attempting to run a half marathon (well, run/walk a half marathon) in November 2011. I'm scared.
13. My favorite food is Mexican food.
14. I'm obsessed with chai tea lattes (or frapps) from Starbucks. So yummy! In fact, I'm drinking one now, while eating a banana.
15. I really want to buy an old piece of furniture and refinish it, but I can't find the "perfect" piece yet. So I'm still on the hunt.
16. I set monthly "goals" for myself. I rarely finish them. But it's the thought that counts, right?!
17. I'm organized to a fault, even my calendars are color-coded.
18. I'm a retired Army's Sergeant's wife. Crazy, huh?
19. I looooooooooooooooove sweets. Probably why my behind is so big, but still! They are my downfall. Must. Have. Sugar!
20. Sometimes, I amaze even myself with how much I've changed physically and mentally over the last few years. It's mind boggling to think of all the things that are different.
21. I hate fish. (I don't mind eating them, well, some of them... mostly just salmon, trout, and tuna) but I will NOT touch them. Imagine trying to go camping/fishing with your husband when you refuse to take the fish off the hook.
22. I want kids. I'd even be okay with adoption or fostering.
23. I type 95 wpm.
24. My graduate paper (not even a thesis) was 82 pages long, including references. It took me an entire semester to write, and was over Apple, Inc. Exciting huh? I told you I loved Apple!
25. Speaking of Apple, I never leave home without my iPad and iPhone. It's an addiction. Clearly, I enjoy being "connected!"
26. I hate watching the news. It's always bad. Nothing good. Always negative. I need some positive news sometimes, people!
27. I check my Google reader for new blog posts from friends/family/strangers several times a day.
28. I get my nails and my toes done, every two weeks, without fail.
29. I'm working on my second Master's. Sometimes, I think I'll never be finished with school. And when I am finished, I'd like to find a teaching position at a local community college or university.
30. I've never been out of the United States, but I hope to change that in 2012. I'm trying to convince the ol' husband we need a 5 year vow renewal ceremony on the beach somewhere.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
30 Day Blog Challenge - Day 5
Day 05 - A time when you thought about ending your own life.
Man - what in the world is up with these depressing topics?
I know this is going to sound like the biggest cop out in the entire world, but I honestly can't remember a time I've ever wanted to end my life. I can remember threatening it as a child because my mom didn't let me do something I NEEDED to do, but seriously thought about it, I don't know that it's ever happened. I'm fortunate in that respect, I suppose. Life has never felt so closed in that I needed to end it just to get away from it all. I pray for anyone who is having those feelings.
And please - for ANYONE - who feels like they just can't go on, reach out to someone. Just know that you are LOVED beyond the shadow of a doubt. Or call... 1-800-273-TALK!
Man - what in the world is up with these depressing topics?
I know this is going to sound like the biggest cop out in the entire world, but I honestly can't remember a time I've ever wanted to end my life. I can remember threatening it as a child because my mom didn't let me do something I NEEDED to do, but seriously thought about it, I don't know that it's ever happened. I'm fortunate in that respect, I suppose. Life has never felt so closed in that I needed to end it just to get away from it all. I pray for anyone who is having those feelings.
And please - for ANYONE - who feels like they just can't go on, reach out to someone. Just know that you are LOVED beyond the shadow of a doubt. Or call... 1-800-273-TALK!
30 Day Blog Challenge - Day 4
Day 04 - Your views on religion.
I wish I were more of a church going individual. I admit it, I let life, school, stress, and just the want to sleep in ONE day a week prevent me from going to church. I also don't feel like you have to be sitting in a pew in a church somewhere to be religious. But that's just me.
I was raised in a Baptist church, and I loved it. I was at every Wednesday lesson, Sunday school, and church service that followed. I adored the preacher, Brother Roger Marsh. He actually married my parents (well, my mom and step-dad). And his wife, Marsha. He had an incredible family. A couple years into high school, I tried out for drill team captain. I was a freshman, as were many of the others trying out. (We were a small school, and all the seniors were graduating, there were no juniors.) So I made captain. Awesome, right?! Rumors started flying around town about how my mom was sleeping around, leaving my brother and I to fend for ourselves at home. It was NOT the case. My mom has been nothing but an amazing, supportive, loving parent my entire life. The rumors - started by the mom of one of the other girls... who went to our church.
It's taken me a lot of years to be okay with the back stabbing, gossiping of "church-going" Christians, but I've come to realize that people are still human, and they make mistakes. I would love to find a church near our home, but I haven't made that move yet. I should. I know in my heart that it would make me feel more at peace to hear a message that I so desperately need to hear every week.
But for now, I study on my own at home. And I pray. Constantly. For strength, for wisdom, for courage, for my friends, family, and strangers who are going through tough times. Because I really do believe in the power of our Savior.
I wish I were more of a church going individual. I admit it, I let life, school, stress, and just the want to sleep in ONE day a week prevent me from going to church. I also don't feel like you have to be sitting in a pew in a church somewhere to be religious. But that's just me.
I was raised in a Baptist church, and I loved it. I was at every Wednesday lesson, Sunday school, and church service that followed. I adored the preacher, Brother Roger Marsh. He actually married my parents (well, my mom and step-dad). And his wife, Marsha. He had an incredible family. A couple years into high school, I tried out for drill team captain. I was a freshman, as were many of the others trying out. (We were a small school, and all the seniors were graduating, there were no juniors.) So I made captain. Awesome, right?! Rumors started flying around town about how my mom was sleeping around, leaving my brother and I to fend for ourselves at home. It was NOT the case. My mom has been nothing but an amazing, supportive, loving parent my entire life. The rumors - started by the mom of one of the other girls... who went to our church.
It's taken me a lot of years to be okay with the back stabbing, gossiping of "church-going" Christians, but I've come to realize that people are still human, and they make mistakes. I would love to find a church near our home, but I haven't made that move yet. I should. I know in my heart that it would make me feel more at peace to hear a message that I so desperately need to hear every week.
But for now, I study on my own at home. And I pray. Constantly. For strength, for wisdom, for courage, for my friends, family, and strangers who are going through tough times. Because I really do believe in the power of our Savior.
Friday, June 10, 2011
30 Day Blog Challenge - Day 3
The topic of today's blog challenge is how I feel personally about drugs and alcohol. And let me just say that this is a heavy topic for my heart on a Friday.
I'm not even certain where to begin...
Drugs and alcohol are devastating to so many families and relationships. They can literally destroy relationships, break apart families, tear children from their parents. When a person literally becomes dependent on this substances to survive, they tend to isolate themselves from the people they love and who love them in return. Now let me just say this... I have no problem, whatsoever, with the occasional drink with dinner, a beer at a sporting event, or just a beer each night when you get home. My step-dad drinks one beer every single night. My husband drinks a beer a week, maybe.
If you have ever been impacted by someone who has a substance abuse (drugs or alcohol) problem, you understand exactly what I'm talking about. Often times, these individuals will sell precious jewelry, their children's toys, whatever they can to find the funds to buy the "fix" they need. It's heartbreaking how dependent people can become to their addiction to survive. I hate it.
In my honest opinion, alcohol and drugs become such an addiction and they should be treated as such. Most people do not have the will-power to willing put them down and walk away. They need help. Whether it's in-patient treatment, weekly group meetings, the support (to an extent) of family and friends to break the cycle. Parents need to realize that no matter how big your home is, no matter how fancy of a car you buy your child, they are not immune to the peer-pressure of drugs and alcohol. Having an open line of communication will tell you more than anything. Be parents. Say no to your children. It's really okay and they are going to turn out okay, but that doesn't mean that they won't ever use drugs and drink alcohol.
It's a debilitating addiction. And I hate it.
I'm not even certain where to begin...
Drugs and alcohol are devastating to so many families and relationships. They can literally destroy relationships, break apart families, tear children from their parents. When a person literally becomes dependent on this substances to survive, they tend to isolate themselves from the people they love and who love them in return. Now let me just say this... I have no problem, whatsoever, with the occasional drink with dinner, a beer at a sporting event, or just a beer each night when you get home. My step-dad drinks one beer every single night. My husband drinks a beer a week, maybe.
If you have ever been impacted by someone who has a substance abuse (drugs or alcohol) problem, you understand exactly what I'm talking about. Often times, these individuals will sell precious jewelry, their children's toys, whatever they can to find the funds to buy the "fix" they need. It's heartbreaking how dependent people can become to their addiction to survive. I hate it.
In my honest opinion, alcohol and drugs become such an addiction and they should be treated as such. Most people do not have the will-power to willing put them down and walk away. They need help. Whether it's in-patient treatment, weekly group meetings, the support (to an extent) of family and friends to break the cycle. Parents need to realize that no matter how big your home is, no matter how fancy of a car you buy your child, they are not immune to the peer-pressure of drugs and alcohol. Having an open line of communication will tell you more than anything. Be parents. Say no to your children. It's really okay and they are going to turn out okay, but that doesn't mean that they won't ever use drugs and drink alcohol.
It's a debilitating addiction. And I hate it.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
30 Day Blog Challenge - Day 2
Day 2 of the 30 Day Blog Challenge is to write about where I want to be in 10 years. :o)
Ten years from now seems like such a long time from now, but if the next ten years go by as fast as the last ten did, it'll be here before you know it. It's interesting that I'm writing this blog post now, because my ten year high school reunion is this year, and as I look back to how much I've changed since graduation, I wonder how much my life will change in the next ten years.
Really, I feel like I have accomplished so much in my life so far, and I can't really imagine that I'll ever be able to accomplish as much going forward - but that certainly isn't going to stop me from trying!
In ten years, I hope to be a practicing Certified Public Accountant, possibly with my own accounting firm catering to small business clients in the DFW Metroplex. I've considered the possibility of going back to college and getting my PhD, but I'm not certain if I'll pursue that goal or not. It's definitely an option though.
I would desperately like to pay off all of my college debt in the next 10 years. It's a doable goal, but I'd like to be mostly debt free (maybe with the exception of a mortgage and a car note) by this date in 2021.
I hope to have a home, a child or two, with a garden, a big back yard or some land, a couple of dogs, and just all around be happy with where I am in my life.
Ten years from now seems like such a long time from now, but if the next ten years go by as fast as the last ten did, it'll be here before you know it. It's interesting that I'm writing this blog post now, because my ten year high school reunion is this year, and as I look back to how much I've changed since graduation, I wonder how much my life will change in the next ten years.
Really, I feel like I have accomplished so much in my life so far, and I can't really imagine that I'll ever be able to accomplish as much going forward - but that certainly isn't going to stop me from trying!
In ten years, I hope to be a practicing Certified Public Accountant, possibly with my own accounting firm catering to small business clients in the DFW Metroplex. I've considered the possibility of going back to college and getting my PhD, but I'm not certain if I'll pursue that goal or not. It's definitely an option though.
I would desperately like to pay off all of my college debt in the next 10 years. It's a doable goal, but I'd like to be mostly debt free (maybe with the exception of a mortgage and a car note) by this date in 2021.
I hope to have a home, a child or two, with a garden, a big back yard or some land, a couple of dogs, and just all around be happy with where I am in my life.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
30 Day Blog Challenge - Day 1
Day 1 of the 30 Day Blog Challenge is to write about my current relationship. :o)
When I was about 19, I started talking to this boy on AOL. Well, let me back up even a bit further than that. When I was 19, I was in a group chat room with a bunch of girls, we were all AOL friends, because you know, that was the "cool" thing to do back then. One of the girls proceeded to tell me that a certain boy (who shall not be named) called me a bitch. Um, what?! At 19, I was pretty fearless, and I didn't take too kindly to someone who did not know me calling me a bitch. So I promptly asked for his phone number, and I called to tell him how it was, and how much I did NOT appreciate him calling me names. I think he laughed. I would have too.
Fast forward a couple of months, and this same boy and I start talking on AOL, which lead to a phone call, which lead to a meeting at Discount Tire in Denton. Random - I know, but I had to get news tires, and he picked me up so we could go have lunch at Tia's Tex Mex. (Remember that place?! Man, I loved it!) That night, we went to dinner with his family to celebrate his birthday as well as his brother-in-law's birthday at Johnny Carino's. And yes, you heard that right, first date with his family. LOL. He had just gotten out of the Navy and was living with his mom at the time, so after dinner, we went back to his mom's house, and watched Black Hawk Down. I went to sleep pretty quickly. Whoops. Nothing happened, nothing at all. I slept on top of the covers, still wearing my jeans and belt and all the clothes I came with. But his mom was not happy. I didn't blame her.
The next night - Friday night - we went to TGIFridays to celebrate his actual birthday. I didn't even have to pay because I had just lost my job, and didn't have any money. So he took me out to dinner to celebrate his birthday. From then on - we were pretty inseparable, even moving into our first apartment together some three months later. But it quickly became a DISASTER! We were young. I was 19, he was 24. And we fought ALL THE TIME. We moved in together in February, broke up in March, and lived together essentially as roommates until I moved out in October of 2003.
A rocky relationship ended up back together, and we moved to Albuquerque in May of 2004. We broke up again in August or September. Got back together again by Thanksgiving. Moved back to Dallas, but lived apart in January 2005. He moved in with me in April 2005, we broke up in August or September of 2005, he moved out in February 2006. LOL. See a pattern here?!
After some soul searching on both of our parts, some time apart, some time spent ACTUALLY dating one another, lots of phone conversations, and lots of tears, we finally got back together in July 2006. And we're stronger than ever (except for the stint of drama and frustration that almost led to our divorce in 2009 - stupid Army).
We started a relationship as kids - and we ended up being forced to grow up together. He's my absolute best friend in the world, and one person I know I can always count on! (Luckily - I have a few!) I wouldn't trade the stresses, the arguments, the frustration, and the fights for the world, because I know that it helped me grow up. We will celebrate our 4th wedding anniversary on September 1st, 2011 and our 9th dating anniversary (our first date, that is) on November 21, 2011. It's amazing that we've been together so long and been through so much, and we've still managed to come out on the other side stronger people and a stronger couple.
When I was about 19, I started talking to this boy on AOL. Well, let me back up even a bit further than that. When I was 19, I was in a group chat room with a bunch of girls, we were all AOL friends, because you know, that was the "cool" thing to do back then. One of the girls proceeded to tell me that a certain boy (who shall not be named) called me a bitch. Um, what?! At 19, I was pretty fearless, and I didn't take too kindly to someone who did not know me calling me a bitch. So I promptly asked for his phone number, and I called to tell him how it was, and how much I did NOT appreciate him calling me names. I think he laughed. I would have too.
Fast forward a couple of months, and this same boy and I start talking on AOL, which lead to a phone call, which lead to a meeting at Discount Tire in Denton. Random - I know, but I had to get news tires, and he picked me up so we could go have lunch at Tia's Tex Mex. (Remember that place?! Man, I loved it!) That night, we went to dinner with his family to celebrate his birthday as well as his brother-in-law's birthday at Johnny Carino's. And yes, you heard that right, first date with his family. LOL. He had just gotten out of the Navy and was living with his mom at the time, so after dinner, we went back to his mom's house, and watched Black Hawk Down. I went to sleep pretty quickly. Whoops. Nothing happened, nothing at all. I slept on top of the covers, still wearing my jeans and belt and all the clothes I came with. But his mom was not happy. I didn't blame her.
The next night - Friday night - we went to TGIFridays to celebrate his actual birthday. I didn't even have to pay because I had just lost my job, and didn't have any money. So he took me out to dinner to celebrate his birthday. From then on - we were pretty inseparable, even moving into our first apartment together some three months later. But it quickly became a DISASTER! We were young. I was 19, he was 24. And we fought ALL THE TIME. We moved in together in February, broke up in March, and lived together essentially as roommates until I moved out in October of 2003.
A rocky relationship ended up back together, and we moved to Albuquerque in May of 2004. We broke up again in August or September. Got back together again by Thanksgiving. Moved back to Dallas, but lived apart in January 2005. He moved in with me in April 2005, we broke up in August or September of 2005, he moved out in February 2006. LOL. See a pattern here?!
After some soul searching on both of our parts, some time apart, some time spent ACTUALLY dating one another, lots of phone conversations, and lots of tears, we finally got back together in July 2006. And we're stronger than ever (except for the stint of drama and frustration that almost led to our divorce in 2009 - stupid Army).
We started a relationship as kids - and we ended up being forced to grow up together. He's my absolute best friend in the world, and one person I know I can always count on! (Luckily - I have a few!) I wouldn't trade the stresses, the arguments, the frustration, and the fights for the world, because I know that it helped me grow up. We will celebrate our 4th wedding anniversary on September 1st, 2011 and our 9th dating anniversary (our first date, that is) on November 21, 2011. It's amazing that we've been together so long and been through so much, and we've still managed to come out on the other side stronger people and a stronger couple.
30 Days of Blogging
There's a challenge floating around the blog-o-sphere that deals with 30 days of blogging. Basically, the idea is that you have a list of things to write about every day. :o) So I'm going to try it. Let's see how successful I am.
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