Holy moly! I've finally done it! Today will officially mark the final installment of the This is Me challenge! For almost a year, I have been answering questions about moi (I got the questions from here if you're curious), and now (theoretically at least) I have my official life history recorded!
This week's topic isn't exactly I like to think/write about, but we gotta get this thing done, so let's go. This week's topic: death.
What would you like to do before you die? (bucket list)
I may be a total lame-o, but I really don't have any "experiences" I would like to have before I die. I do have lots of places I'd like to go (I listed them in the travel section of this challenge), though.
What are your beliefs about death?
I don't exactly know, but I do believe that death isn't the end. That is mainly because of my experience after my grandmother passed away. When she passed, all of the grandchildren put something into the casket as a memory. My brother chose to put a box of Cocoa Krispies in there (because she always had them waiting for us at their house in Florida when we came to spend our Spring Break week...and my mom never let us have them at home!). Well, after the funeral, we were back at their country club clubhouse for the reception or whatever it's called. My cousins, aunt, and I were out on the patio talking when all of a sudden someone pointed out a box of Cocoa Krispies laying next to one of the chairs! Coincidence maybe, but like most Florida country clubs, this place is almost exclusively seniors (who likely don't eat Cocoa Krispies) and the place was closed on Mondays (which it was), so we all took it as some sort of sign.
And to top it all off, we were back at my grandfather's house later on. My aunt was discussing the above event with my dad who was basically making fun of her for thinking it was anything more than a box of cereal. As he said it, the Yahrtzeit candle (a memorial candle you light in Judaism and leave burning while in mourning) all of a sudden tipped over and splattered wax everywhere! Even he was taken aback.
So, yeah, I don't know exactly what I believe, but I do think we have a chance to meet again...
Are you scared to die?
Probably, but it's really not something I think about often because it still seems so far off (hopefully!...fingers crossed!).
How would you like to go?
Uh, how awful to even think about, but I'm probably like most people in that I'd like to just go peacefully in my sleep! I will go a little out of the box, though, and say I do believe there is something to be said for going before you get too old or frail...like 80ish maybe!
What are your final wishes?
OMG...I don't know! I'm only 32 and would like to think I have a long time to think about this. But I do know, want my kids to know that they are loved and to feel that love every day...from me or from whoever may be left (hopefully a spouse, kids, and even grandkids!).
What are your wishes for your funeral and burial?
Again, I really haven't, nor do I really want to, give this much thought yet, but I will probably want to be buried next to Josh. And I want my funeral to be one big celebration...lots of laughs, good stories, and good food and drink!
What would you like people to say about you when you are gone?
I hope that when I do eventually go (again hopefully not for quite awhile) that people genuinely miss me. Right now, my biggest priority is that I be remembered as an amazing mom and that my boys know just how much they are both loved.
Whew! That was heavy...and awful! Glad it's over...
And glad this little challenge is over! I'm sure one day I will be happy I took the time to write all that down. In fact, I have already gone back and read some of my earlier entries and enjoy doing so!
Showing posts with label this is me. Show all posts
Showing posts with label this is me. Show all posts
September 6, 2013
August 30, 2013
This is Me: Hobbies
OK folks...two more chapters to go in the self-imposed "This is Me" challenge. I can do this (***and one day I will be glad I did...I think***). This week's section is hobbies, so let's dive right in...
What are your current hobbies?
I would say my biggest "hobby"right now (as in way I like to spend my free time) is blogging and all that it entails. I love trying out new DIY projects, recipes, crafts, and even kid-friendly activities, and I think blogging fuels that fire because I feel motivated to keep doing it. Truthfully, my hobbies have veered towards the domestic (cooking, entertaining, decorating) ever since we got married, but I think the blog just makes it more relevant...and allows me to do some writing too which I enjoy!
Pinterest and Candy Crush would also be big hobbies...if they count!
I work out every day, but I don't really consider that a hobby...just another thing I have to do!
What hobbies have you had in the past?
I was a competitive swimmer from the time I was 10 until I graduated high school. With practices before school, after school, and on weekends, swimming took up all my free time for those years.
I have always loved to bake (although my mom would never let me because she said I got the kitchen too messy). And I have always enjoyed doing crafty things...friendship bracelets, scrapbooks, etc.
How often do you get to do your hobbies?
I try to devote at least half of the kids' nap time each day (so at least an hour) to working on some sort of house project. Some days that's more fun than others, but for simplicity sake, we'll say I work on my hobbies about an hour a day!
What hobbies do you wish you could start?
I have frequently thought of buying a sewing machine and learning to sew. I would probably use it to make pillows, curtains, and other home decor items instead of clothes, but it would definitely be a new hobby.
I have also wanted to try stand-up paddleboarding. I know a few people who have done it and loved it! I guess that would be a very seasonal hobby though!
What are your current hobbies?
I would say my biggest "hobby"right now (as in way I like to spend my free time) is blogging and all that it entails. I love trying out new DIY projects, recipes, crafts, and even kid-friendly activities, and I think blogging fuels that fire because I feel motivated to keep doing it. Truthfully, my hobbies have veered towards the domestic (cooking, entertaining, decorating) ever since we got married, but I think the blog just makes it more relevant...and allows me to do some writing too which I enjoy!
Pinterest and Candy Crush would also be big hobbies...if they count!
I work out every day, but I don't really consider that a hobby...just another thing I have to do!
What hobbies have you had in the past?
I was a competitive swimmer from the time I was 10 until I graduated high school. With practices before school, after school, and on weekends, swimming took up all my free time for those years.
I have always loved to bake (although my mom would never let me because she said I got the kitchen too messy). And I have always enjoyed doing crafty things...friendship bracelets, scrapbooks, etc.
How often do you get to do your hobbies?
I try to devote at least half of the kids' nap time each day (so at least an hour) to working on some sort of house project. Some days that's more fun than others, but for simplicity sake, we'll say I work on my hobbies about an hour a day!
What hobbies do you wish you could start?
I have frequently thought of buying a sewing machine and learning to sew. I would probably use it to make pillows, curtains, and other home decor items instead of clothes, but it would definitely be a new hobby.
I have also wanted to try stand-up paddleboarding. I know a few people who have done it and loved it! I guess that would be a very seasonal hobby though!
August 16, 2013
This is Me: Personality
Trekking on, trekking on, trekking on...here we go with another chapter of my self-imposed "This is Me" challenge! By the way, for those of you as sick of this as I am, there are only 2 more after this, so hang in there!!!
So, personality is the topic, and here are the questions/answers
What kind of personality do you have (shy, outgoing, stressed, calm, etc)?
I straddle a line between shy and outgoing. I'll pretty much talk to anyone and am generally uber friendly. But then, I tend to give a cold shoulder to people I don't like and/or if I don't think they like me! I very much feel strongly that I only need people in my life who love and respect me and vice versa, and I'm pretty careful to only let those people in...for better or worse!
Most people consider me a very care-free person, and I would probably agree with that. I do tend to carry some pretty admittedly stupid anxieties which I wish I could just fix! And I tend to create more stress for myself by constantly creating insane to-do lists and holding myself to pretty high standards, although it rarely really stresses myself out so I don't know.
I feel like I am a very giving person and would do just about anything to make anyone happy.
On the negative side, I tend to think I'm always right (!) and have a hard time accepting alternative plans, ideas, or opinions...at least I can acknowledge it, right?!?
How has your personality changed over the years? What made it change?
I've definitely become more outgoing over the years. As a child I was painfully shy and even through college, I was much more tentative when talking to people I didn't know and would tend to cling to people I did! Honestly, it may be corny, but I think that changed when I met Josh...and was happier and more comfortable in my own skin...and finally confident enough.
On the negative side, I've become much more anxious as I have grown older (although, thankfully, I am much less than I was a couple years ago). Honestly, I don't know what the cause is: birth control pills? having kids and more to lose? too much coffee? I try to figure it out all the time because I truly HATE it!
How well do you associate with others?
Well, I feel like I've already touched on this, but I think I do pretty well with others. Again, if you've crossed me, I pretty much write you out which probably isn't the best way to be, but...
I'm very loyal to my friends and tend to make friends fairly easily.
What makes you nervous/scared/angry/happy/surprised?
Well I've mentioned that I am generally a tad anxious, but the source is so stupid I'm almost embarrassed to type it. Basically, I'm constantly nervous that I'm going to pass out! I've only passed out once in my life...over 15 years ago...and it really wasn't even that traumatic of an experience. But a few years ago, I started to constantly worry that it would happen again. One would think I would at least feel like I was going to pass out to start the worry, but fortunately or not, that's not the case. I even went to the doctor a couple of years ago just to confirm it wasn't anything physical, and it's not! It's more like when I'm in certain situations (it's hot, I haven't eaten for awhile, I'm standing in front of a group of people, etc) that I start to worry I might and then if you start to worry hard enough, it almost feels like you might and I literally have to talk myself down at times and tell myself just how stupid I am being. It was really bad right before I got pregnant with Levi (hence how I got pregnant with Levi: I stopped taking my birth control thinking they may have been the culprit and voila), and luckily it hasn't been that bad again since, but it's still there worse at some times than others. I don't take any medication for it or anything (although I probably could/should), but mainly it's just a really annoying bad habit.
As for being scared, the only thing that really scares me is the idea of losing someone close to me...or myself! I tend to get pretty worked up about going to the doctor...or anyone I love going to the doctor...because I'm terrified that something suddenly will be wrong with that person.
What makes me happy? My husband. My boys. Chipper's kisses and cuddles (not his awful barking/chewing habits). My family. Good food. Good drinks. The beach and/or pool. Holidays and special occasions. Football. Target. New clothes. To-do lists.
I really don't get angry often. I get annoyed with people/things frequently, but rarely get truly mad. If I do, it's probably because someone doesn't do what they say they are going to do
So, personality is the topic, and here are the questions/answers
What kind of personality do you have (shy, outgoing, stressed, calm, etc)?
I straddle a line between shy and outgoing. I'll pretty much talk to anyone and am generally uber friendly. But then, I tend to give a cold shoulder to people I don't like and/or if I don't think they like me! I very much feel strongly that I only need people in my life who love and respect me and vice versa, and I'm pretty careful to only let those people in...for better or worse!
Most people consider me a very care-free person, and I would probably agree with that. I do tend to carry some pretty admittedly stupid anxieties which I wish I could just fix! And I tend to create more stress for myself by constantly creating insane to-do lists and holding myself to pretty high standards, although it rarely really stresses myself out so I don't know.
I feel like I am a very giving person and would do just about anything to make anyone happy.
On the negative side, I tend to think I'm always right (!) and have a hard time accepting alternative plans, ideas, or opinions...at least I can acknowledge it, right?!?
How has your personality changed over the years? What made it change?
I've definitely become more outgoing over the years. As a child I was painfully shy and even through college, I was much more tentative when talking to people I didn't know and would tend to cling to people I did! Honestly, it may be corny, but I think that changed when I met Josh...and was happier and more comfortable in my own skin...and finally confident enough.
On the negative side, I've become much more anxious as I have grown older (although, thankfully, I am much less than I was a couple years ago). Honestly, I don't know what the cause is: birth control pills? having kids and more to lose? too much coffee? I try to figure it out all the time because I truly HATE it!
How well do you associate with others?
Well, I feel like I've already touched on this, but I think I do pretty well with others. Again, if you've crossed me, I pretty much write you out which probably isn't the best way to be, but...
I'm very loyal to my friends and tend to make friends fairly easily.
What makes you nervous/scared/angry/happy/surprised?
Well I've mentioned that I am generally a tad anxious, but the source is so stupid I'm almost embarrassed to type it. Basically, I'm constantly nervous that I'm going to pass out! I've only passed out once in my life...over 15 years ago...and it really wasn't even that traumatic of an experience. But a few years ago, I started to constantly worry that it would happen again. One would think I would at least feel like I was going to pass out to start the worry, but fortunately or not, that's not the case. I even went to the doctor a couple of years ago just to confirm it wasn't anything physical, and it's not! It's more like when I'm in certain situations (it's hot, I haven't eaten for awhile, I'm standing in front of a group of people, etc) that I start to worry I might and then if you start to worry hard enough, it almost feels like you might and I literally have to talk myself down at times and tell myself just how stupid I am being. It was really bad right before I got pregnant with Levi (hence how I got pregnant with Levi: I stopped taking my birth control thinking they may have been the culprit and voila), and luckily it hasn't been that bad again since, but it's still there worse at some times than others. I don't take any medication for it or anything (although I probably could/should), but mainly it's just a really annoying bad habit.
As for being scared, the only thing that really scares me is the idea of losing someone close to me...or myself! I tend to get pretty worked up about going to the doctor...or anyone I love going to the doctor...because I'm terrified that something suddenly will be wrong with that person.
What makes me happy? My husband. My boys. Chipper's kisses and cuddles (not his awful barking/chewing habits). My family. Good food. Good drinks. The beach and/or pool. Holidays and special occasions. Football. Target. New clothes. To-do lists.
I really don't get angry often. I get annoyed with people/things frequently, but rarely get truly mad. If I do, it's probably because someone doesn't do what they say they are going to do
August 9, 2013
This is Me: Miscellaneous
Another week, another chapter in the "This is Me" challenge to conquer. We're getting there now people, I swear. (and if you have no idea what I'm talking about and/or care to check out some of my other entries, just click on the "this is me" category on the right).
This week's section is miscellaneous, so let's see what that is all about.
What is the most daring thing you've ever done?
Me and daring most definitely don't go together. I did parasail once...before I even realized it was considering "daring", but that's probably the best it's ever going to get!
What is the stupidest thing you've ever done?
I've given this a lot of thought and I really don't know! As is typical of teenagers, I made a few stupid choices when I was younger: smoking (mainly socially), drinking and driving, etc, so I'm going to go with those!
What is your most embarrassing moment?
Holy hell...I don't know!!! I've always sucked at these kind of questions by the way, as you're probably quickly realizing. OK...most embarrassing moment
....after several minutes of thinking...
I don't think I have a most embarrassing moment. Seriously. I can't think of anything. I'm a pretty open person who's really not afraid to tell anyone anything, so I'm wondering if I just don't embarrass easily!
What choices in life would you have a redo on?
I firmly believe that my choices...good and poor...have gotten me to where and who I am today, and because I'm pretty happy with where and who I am, I'm good with those choices, even if they do seem bad in some way. However, one thing I do regret is not taking more advantaged of my college experience. I had a serious boyfriend all though college, and was so focused on him and growing up too quickly that I didn't really do college like I should. Sure, I went out some, but not enough. And now that I am a real grown up with real responsibilities I realize, sadly, that I will never have the opportunity like college again!
What is your general attitude toward life?
I believe in karma. I believe that everything happens for a reason. I believe that the people in my life and the time spent with them are way more valuable than money or any things that we can accrue. I believe that I have been incredibly blessed in this life and try to acknowledge and appreciate that often.
This week's section is miscellaneous, so let's see what that is all about.
What is the most daring thing you've ever done?
Me and daring most definitely don't go together. I did parasail once...before I even realized it was considering "daring", but that's probably the best it's ever going to get!
What is the stupidest thing you've ever done?
I've given this a lot of thought and I really don't know! As is typical of teenagers, I made a few stupid choices when I was younger: smoking (mainly socially), drinking and driving, etc, so I'm going to go with those!
What is your most embarrassing moment?
Holy hell...I don't know!!! I've always sucked at these kind of questions by the way, as you're probably quickly realizing. OK...most embarrassing moment
....after several minutes of thinking...
I don't think I have a most embarrassing moment. Seriously. I can't think of anything. I'm a pretty open person who's really not afraid to tell anyone anything, so I'm wondering if I just don't embarrass easily!
What choices in life would you have a redo on?
I firmly believe that my choices...good and poor...have gotten me to where and who I am today, and because I'm pretty happy with where and who I am, I'm good with those choices, even if they do seem bad in some way. However, one thing I do regret is not taking more advantaged of my college experience. I had a serious boyfriend all though college, and was so focused on him and growing up too quickly that I didn't really do college like I should. Sure, I went out some, but not enough. And now that I am a real grown up with real responsibilities I realize, sadly, that I will never have the opportunity like college again!
What is your general attitude toward life?
I believe in karma. I believe that everything happens for a reason. I believe that the people in my life and the time spent with them are way more valuable than money or any things that we can accrue. I believe that I have been incredibly blessed in this life and try to acknowledge and appreciate that often.
August 2, 2013
This is Me: Travel
As promised, I am knocking out one section of my self-imposed "This is Me" challenge each week until it's done. So, let's do this ish, eh?!?
This week's topic: travel
Where in the world have you been?
I've at least driven through every state on the East Coast, with stays in: Ft. Lauderdale (multiple times), Miami, Orlando/Disney, Tampa, Atlanta, Myrtle Beach, Outer Banks, Chapel Hill, a couple other small North Carolina cities, lots of places in Virginia including Richmond, Charlottesville, and Hot Springs, Washington DC, Baltimore, Rehobeth Beach, Pittsburgh, New York City, Rochester (actually Marion...my sister-in-law's home town), Providence (RI), and Portland + a couple other small towns in Maine.
Beyond the East Coast, I've also done Austin, Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Phoenix, Sedona, St. Louis, Cleveland, and New Orleans.
In the Caribbean, I've been to Nassau, Bahamas, Jamaica, Aruba, and Mexico (although I don't think that's technically Caribbean). Oh, and soon, really soon, I will be able to add St. Maarten and St. Thomas to that list.
And finally, I've also done Paris, Venice, and Rome.
Where was your favorite vacation (as a child, teenager, and adult)?
We used to go to Florida to see my grandparents and aunt/uncle/cousins every Spring Break when I was younger. Most years we would drive there...an approximate 20 hour trip door-to-door. You would think I would dread it, but I used to love every second of it. We would prep games, food, and other activities to pass the ride. And when we got to Florida, it was warm and we got to go swimming, and play shuffle board (that was a big deal for us!), spend time with some of my favorite people, and eat junk food, and have a blast. One year, we left for our return trip home and about 2 hours into it, my dad heard a weird noise coming from one of the rear tires. We somehow got to some random gas station where they informed us that we needed some part that wouldn't be there for a few days. I was so stoked! Not only did we get to go back to my grandparents for a few more days (after spending a few hours at the gas station waiting on my grandfather to come get us!), but we also got to miss a few days of school. Best. vacation. ever (at least when you're 10 or so).
I was technically 20 when I went to Europe, but we'll count that as my best trip of my teens. Josh is not a big fan of travel, so I don't know if I'll ever get back over! Luckily, I can at least say I've seen all that Paris, Rome, and Venice has to offer (and hopefully I'll talk him into seeing some one day!).
As an adult, I feel like I should say my best trip was my honeymoon. It was a great trip, but I think my best trip was a weekend in New York City. Josh and I went with my parents for my 25th birthday and had an absolute BLAST with so many good memories/stories to tell. My dad will probably kill me for putting this out (but, hey, it's my life history right), but my favorite story of the weekend involves my dad showing up at our hotel door in his boxer shorts!!! Let me set the scene: we're in a swanky, swanky hotel in SoHo (the Gaansvenort). Mom, Dad, Josh, and I have been out for the night...and Josh has introduced my dad to Jager shots. I don't even really know how many dad had (or us for that matter), but we part ways at the end of the night. At some point, Dad supposedly wakes up to go to the bathroom and instead of opening the bathroom door, he opens the door to the room. Well, you know how those lock behind you once you exit?!? So, he's stuck in the hallway in his boxers. He knocks on my mom's door a few times, but she's not budging, so he knocks on our door. I didn't budge either (Josh and my dad had to tell us this story the next morning), but Josh answers and tells my dad he will call the front desk. Well, I guess the hotel has cameras and as Josh goes to call, the security guards come down the hall to confront my dad. I guess they asked him for id (which he obviously didn't have on him!), but I think after that, they settled down and just let him in his room. Seriously, that story has gone down as legend at this point!
Where would your dream vacation be?
I have so many places I want to go and see: some just for their beauty, some for their sites, and some for both. Some are relatively close, or at least part of the United States, while some are definitely more international. Honestly, I want to do them all, and don't really rank any as more desirable than others if that makes sense. But if I think of dream as more exotic or whatever, I'd say my dream vacation may be Greece...or Australia/Fiji/New Zealand.
How do you like to travel?
Here's the thing: I actually hate to travel! I've gotten worse as I've gotten older and just don't have the patience or nerves (I'm a bit of a nervous traveler, especially flyer, who frequently thinks of all that can go wrong) for any kind of travel. At the end of the day, though, I guess I'd vote for airplane cause it gets you there the fastest!
This week's topic: travel
Where in the world have you been?
I've at least driven through every state on the East Coast, with stays in: Ft. Lauderdale (multiple times), Miami, Orlando/Disney, Tampa, Atlanta, Myrtle Beach, Outer Banks, Chapel Hill, a couple other small North Carolina cities, lots of places in Virginia including Richmond, Charlottesville, and Hot Springs, Washington DC, Baltimore, Rehobeth Beach, Pittsburgh, New York City, Rochester (actually Marion...my sister-in-law's home town), Providence (RI), and Portland + a couple other small towns in Maine.
Beyond the East Coast, I've also done Austin, Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Phoenix, Sedona, St. Louis, Cleveland, and New Orleans.
In the Caribbean, I've been to Nassau, Bahamas, Jamaica, Aruba, and Mexico (although I don't think that's technically Caribbean). Oh, and soon, really soon, I will be able to add St. Maarten and St. Thomas to that list.
And finally, I've also done Paris, Venice, and Rome.
Where was your favorite vacation (as a child, teenager, and adult)?
We used to go to Florida to see my grandparents and aunt/uncle/cousins every Spring Break when I was younger. Most years we would drive there...an approximate 20 hour trip door-to-door. You would think I would dread it, but I used to love every second of it. We would prep games, food, and other activities to pass the ride. And when we got to Florida, it was warm and we got to go swimming, and play shuffle board (that was a big deal for us!), spend time with some of my favorite people, and eat junk food, and have a blast. One year, we left for our return trip home and about 2 hours into it, my dad heard a weird noise coming from one of the rear tires. We somehow got to some random gas station where they informed us that we needed some part that wouldn't be there for a few days. I was so stoked! Not only did we get to go back to my grandparents for a few more days (after spending a few hours at the gas station waiting on my grandfather to come get us!), but we also got to miss a few days of school. Best. vacation. ever (at least when you're 10 or so).
I was technically 20 when I went to Europe, but we'll count that as my best trip of my teens. Josh is not a big fan of travel, so I don't know if I'll ever get back over! Luckily, I can at least say I've seen all that Paris, Rome, and Venice has to offer (and hopefully I'll talk him into seeing some one day!).
As an adult, I feel like I should say my best trip was my honeymoon. It was a great trip, but I think my best trip was a weekend in New York City. Josh and I went with my parents for my 25th birthday and had an absolute BLAST with so many good memories/stories to tell. My dad will probably kill me for putting this out (but, hey, it's my life history right), but my favorite story of the weekend involves my dad showing up at our hotel door in his boxer shorts!!! Let me set the scene: we're in a swanky, swanky hotel in SoHo (the Gaansvenort). Mom, Dad, Josh, and I have been out for the night...and Josh has introduced my dad to Jager shots. I don't even really know how many dad had (or us for that matter), but we part ways at the end of the night. At some point, Dad supposedly wakes up to go to the bathroom and instead of opening the bathroom door, he opens the door to the room. Well, you know how those lock behind you once you exit?!? So, he's stuck in the hallway in his boxers. He knocks on my mom's door a few times, but she's not budging, so he knocks on our door. I didn't budge either (Josh and my dad had to tell us this story the next morning), but Josh answers and tells my dad he will call the front desk. Well, I guess the hotel has cameras and as Josh goes to call, the security guards come down the hall to confront my dad. I guess they asked him for id (which he obviously didn't have on him!), but I think after that, they settled down and just let him in his room. Seriously, that story has gone down as legend at this point!
Where would your dream vacation be?
I have so many places I want to go and see: some just for their beauty, some for their sites, and some for both. Some are relatively close, or at least part of the United States, while some are definitely more international. Honestly, I want to do them all, and don't really rank any as more desirable than others if that makes sense. But if I think of dream as more exotic or whatever, I'd say my dream vacation may be Greece...or Australia/Fiji/New Zealand.
How do you like to travel?
Here's the thing: I actually hate to travel! I've gotten worse as I've gotten older and just don't have the patience or nerves (I'm a bit of a nervous traveler, especially flyer, who frequently thinks of all that can go wrong) for any kind of travel. At the end of the day, though, I guess I'd vote for airplane cause it gets you there the fastest!
July 26, 2013
This Is Me...
Freaking "This is Me"challenge. I started this thing way, way back in November (I had to look that up!).Honestly, I'm over it. But the word "challenge" is involved and I'm not one to give up on a challenge, so I'm determined to get er done if you will. Plus, when looking back to see when I started I reread some of my previous entries and enjoyed them, so I'm thinking I'll be glad to have this when it's all said and done.
There's seven sections left, so I'm thinking one...and maybe even two... a week and that'll be a wrap.
This week: politics...
Are you involved in politics? If so, how?
Not really. I have opinions, but I generally don't vocalize them to too many people to spare myself getting into a discussion I don't need to be having! I do think it is my responsibility to vote, though, at least in the Presidential election or anything else that I have a distinct opinion on...can't complain if you don't vote, right?
Are you for a specific political party?
I'm not affiliated with a party necessarily, but my views, preferences, etc. do tend to go Democratic.
How do you choose who to vote for?
I pick the things that matter to me and vote for the person whose opinions most align with mine. I also trust my gut and generally get a "feel" about one candidate or the other.
Are you happy with the Government?
I'm not quite old enough to know if this is how things have always been or if we just live in a more frustrating time, but my main complaint currently is just how pathetic it is that both parties seem more concerned with one-upping or exposing each other than in getting anything productive done.
What would you change if you could?
See above...I don't know how you would change it, but instead of people voting for things that are going to increase their chances of re-election, improve their standing in their party, etc., they would simply vote based on what is best. Sounds logical, eh?!?
And since that was pretty easy, how about we tackle another section: nature
Where do you go to get away from it all?
This is probably pretty obvious if you know me at all, but...THE BEACH (or Target, but I don't think that's what they meant!). Born and raised a beach girl, the beach...or anywhere that involves water... is about the only place in nature that I enjoy!!!
What outdoor activities do you enjoy participating in?
A long time ago I pinned one of those e-cards that read "I'm outdoorsy in that I like drinking on my patio." Yep, that about sums it up!
What are some of your favorite outdoor memories?
Well, there's all those days on the beach, especially in recent years with the boys.
And there's lots of times on my dad's boat when I was in high school where we would take the boat out for the whole day, dock it in the bay and spend the day jet skiing, tubing, and swimming to shore to get McDonalds.
Josh and I attempted to kayak when we were in the Outer Banks a few years back...we tipped the kayak in and he lost his sunglasses. I still laugh.
We did successfully paddle boat before that...and took the boys out this past spring.
Does football tailgating count?
There's seven sections left, so I'm thinking one...and maybe even two... a week and that'll be a wrap.
This week: politics...
Are you involved in politics? If so, how?
Not really. I have opinions, but I generally don't vocalize them to too many people to spare myself getting into a discussion I don't need to be having! I do think it is my responsibility to vote, though, at least in the Presidential election or anything else that I have a distinct opinion on...can't complain if you don't vote, right?
Are you for a specific political party?
I'm not affiliated with a party necessarily, but my views, preferences, etc. do tend to go Democratic.
How do you choose who to vote for?
I pick the things that matter to me and vote for the person whose opinions most align with mine. I also trust my gut and generally get a "feel" about one candidate or the other.
Are you happy with the Government?
I'm not quite old enough to know if this is how things have always been or if we just live in a more frustrating time, but my main complaint currently is just how pathetic it is that both parties seem more concerned with one-upping or exposing each other than in getting anything productive done.
What would you change if you could?
See above...I don't know how you would change it, but instead of people voting for things that are going to increase their chances of re-election, improve their standing in their party, etc., they would simply vote based on what is best. Sounds logical, eh?!?
And since that was pretty easy, how about we tackle another section: nature
Where do you go to get away from it all?
This is probably pretty obvious if you know me at all, but...THE BEACH (or Target, but I don't think that's what they meant!). Born and raised a beach girl, the beach...or anywhere that involves water... is about the only place in nature that I enjoy!!!
What outdoor activities do you enjoy participating in?
A long time ago I pinned one of those e-cards that read "I'm outdoorsy in that I like drinking on my patio." Yep, that about sums it up!
What are some of your favorite outdoor memories?
Well, there's all those days on the beach, especially in recent years with the boys.
And there's lots of times on my dad's boat when I was in high school where we would take the boat out for the whole day, dock it in the bay and spend the day jet skiing, tubing, and swimming to shore to get McDonalds.
Josh and I attempted to kayak when we were in the Outer Banks a few years back...we tipped the kayak in and he lost his sunglasses. I still laugh.
We did successfully paddle boat before that...and took the boys out this past spring.
Does football tailgating count?
June 21, 2013
This is Me...
So I started the "This is Me" challenge quite awhile ago now. Honestly, I'm kind of over it, but at this point, I'm almost done, so I can't give up now, right?!? Plus, I only have a few more chapters left at this point, so today I'm going to attempt to conquer a couple of them.
Health is first.
How is your overall health?
Knock on wood, cross my fingers, etc...answering this kind of stuff always makes me feel like I'm jinxing myself, BUT my overall health is pretty darn good!!! I've never had any major health issues and get sick very rarely (like once every few years). I don't eat the best, but I don't eat horribly. And I work out five times a week. So I think I'm doing pretty good! I do tend to slightly have high blood pressure, but the doctors have all seemed to agree that it is more a result of "white coat syndrome" and not an actual blood pressure issue. Seriously, y'all I get absolutely panicked at walking in to a doctor's office...I think because I've never really had anything!
Have you had any surgeries?
Just my two C-sections---March 26, 2010 and January 4, 2012.
Have you had any broken bones?
I broke my wrist the summer before my first grade year. I was on the monkey bars in our backyard and fell off, hitting it on the plastic swing underneath on my way down.
I also broke my pinky toe in elementary school by doing a cartwheel into a tape player (back in the days when people still used tape players!).
On a side note, I also broke my brother's collar bone by pushing him in to a couch. Impressive, eh?
Do you have allergies?
I am allergic to cats. And I also have seasonal allergies, but I think pretty much everyone has those!
What are you doing to keep healthy now?
I think I pretty much already answered that, but just the basics. I try to eat relatively healthy. I will never be a crazy health nut person. Shoot, I don't even like most fruits and vegetables, but I try to keep my eating in moderation and make healthy choices. I am very diligent about working out, so hopefully that helps.
And since that was pretty quick and easy, I'll also tackle Around the World today!
What major events have happened in your lifetime?
Oh wow! Let's see what I can remember. Obviously the most significant was September 11th, but there was also (is it bad I had to google because I couldn't really remember) the Challenger explosion, Exxon Valdez oil spill, OJ Simpson trial, Oklahoma City trial, Clinton/Lewinsky drama, Columbine, Princess Diana death, Israeli/Palestininian ongoing fighting, Iraqi war/Sadaam Hussein capture/hanging, Virginia Tech shootings, Bin Laden capture, Newtown Elementary School shootings.
Has it affected who you are now?
I tend to get very wrapped up in and moved by news stories, especially American ones, but I don't know if any of them actually affected who I am today.
Who was the President when you were born? Who is it now?
Ronald Reagan was President when I was born. And now...Barack Obama.
What natural disasters have you been in?
Living in Virginia Beach, we tend to get the remnants of a lot of hurricanes. We have never actually had a direct threat (interesting fact side note: the Edgar Cayce spiritual center is actually located here on 67th street and the story is that they specifically chose Virginia Beach for the location because it was so safe from hurricanes?). There have been a few, though, that have been more of a big deal: Gloria in 1985 (or so), Bonnie in 1998, and Isabel in 2003 (although I was living in Charlottesville for that one, which got effects but not nearly to the level that Virginia Beach did!). I also have been in the one Virginia earthquake a couple summers ago!
Health is first.
How is your overall health?
Knock on wood, cross my fingers, etc...answering this kind of stuff always makes me feel like I'm jinxing myself, BUT my overall health is pretty darn good!!! I've never had any major health issues and get sick very rarely (like once every few years). I don't eat the best, but I don't eat horribly. And I work out five times a week. So I think I'm doing pretty good! I do tend to slightly have high blood pressure, but the doctors have all seemed to agree that it is more a result of "white coat syndrome" and not an actual blood pressure issue. Seriously, y'all I get absolutely panicked at walking in to a doctor's office...I think because I've never really had anything!
Have you had any surgeries?
Just my two C-sections---March 26, 2010 and January 4, 2012.
Have you had any broken bones?
I broke my wrist the summer before my first grade year. I was on the monkey bars in our backyard and fell off, hitting it on the plastic swing underneath on my way down.
I also broke my pinky toe in elementary school by doing a cartwheel into a tape player (back in the days when people still used tape players!).
On a side note, I also broke my brother's collar bone by pushing him in to a couch. Impressive, eh?
Do you have allergies?
I am allergic to cats. And I also have seasonal allergies, but I think pretty much everyone has those!
What are you doing to keep healthy now?
I think I pretty much already answered that, but just the basics. I try to eat relatively healthy. I will never be a crazy health nut person. Shoot, I don't even like most fruits and vegetables, but I try to keep my eating in moderation and make healthy choices. I am very diligent about working out, so hopefully that helps.
And since that was pretty quick and easy, I'll also tackle Around the World today!
What major events have happened in your lifetime?
Oh wow! Let's see what I can remember. Obviously the most significant was September 11th, but there was also (is it bad I had to google because I couldn't really remember) the Challenger explosion, Exxon Valdez oil spill, OJ Simpson trial, Oklahoma City trial, Clinton/Lewinsky drama, Columbine, Princess Diana death, Israeli/Palestininian ongoing fighting, Iraqi war/Sadaam Hussein capture/hanging, Virginia Tech shootings, Bin Laden capture, Newtown Elementary School shootings.
Has it affected who you are now?
I tend to get very wrapped up in and moved by news stories, especially American ones, but I don't know if any of them actually affected who I am today.
Who was the President when you were born? Who is it now?
Ronald Reagan was President when I was born. And now...Barack Obama.
What natural disasters have you been in?
Living in Virginia Beach, we tend to get the remnants of a lot of hurricanes. We have never actually had a direct threat (interesting fact side note: the Edgar Cayce spiritual center is actually located here on 67th street and the story is that they specifically chose Virginia Beach for the location because it was so safe from hurricanes?). There have been a few, though, that have been more of a big deal: Gloria in 1985 (or so), Bonnie in 1998, and Isabel in 2003 (although I was living in Charlottesville for that one, which got effects but not nearly to the level that Virginia Beach did!). I also have been in the one Virginia earthquake a couple summers ago!
May 24, 2013
This is Me: Food
Even though I haven't been very diligent about it, I'm still trying to knock out my self-imposed This is Me Challenge. I figured since it had been awhile I should get on it and tackle yet another chapter. After all, we all know food is near and dear to my heart, so this should be fun....right?
What are your favorite foods?
Put simply: nothing healthy...and lots of carbs. I love sweets, cheeses, breads, pasta...super, huh?!? Nachos and Mexican food in general also top my list.
What are your favorite desserts?
Um, pretty much all. Seriously, I have over 100 in my recipe box as ones I have personally tried and loved. It's a little embarrassing. But let's try to narrow this down some.
Ice cream, particularly chocolate peanut butter, is definitely my go to for something to have at home. I'm also a sucker for warm chocolate chip cookie kind of things. Other desserts that really entice me: pecan pie, apple pie, pumpkin pie, cupcakes, chocolate peanut butter anything, key lime pie, eclair cake...the list could probably go on and on.
Do you like to cook or bake? What are your favorites to make?
I love, love, love to cook and bake. I make dinner for our little family about 4 nights a week and honestly enjoy doing it. Some of my favorite dinners: chicken fajitas, asparagus carbonarra, honey pecan pork chops.
I try to limit my baking because I end up eating too much bad-for-me stuff when I do it! I really love trying out new recipes, though, so I eventually bite the bullet and then try to convince Josh to bring my goodies to the office! For the most part, I tend to love everything I bake (!) and then log them away for when they fit an event in the future.
Do you have any food allergies?
Nope!
What are some foods you have a hard time saying "no" to?
In case it hasn't already been well established, my major weakness is sweets. If they're around, I"m more than likely going to attack them. I'm also a big dip person. And I'm a sucker for some bread and butter.
Which foods do you HAVE to name brand? Which can you go generic?
I tend to buy name brand for just about everything. Honestly, I've never really realized that until this question. Funny thing is I don't HAVE to buy any of them name brand (I don't think); I just do it! So, mental note moving forward maybe search out some of those generics.
Do you try to eat healthy?
Yes. I actually try very hard to eat healthy, and considering what I've already disclosed, you can probably pick up on the fact that eating healthy is really a struggle for me. I would say Monday-Friday I do an awesome job at it, and I do a mediocre job of it Saturday-Sunday!
Do you prefer eating out? Where?
I grew up eating out frequently (like my parents don't eat a single meal at home...ever!), so eating out is definitely something I am very much accustomed to. Unlike my parents, though, I also enjoy eating at home. Usually we eat at home Monday-Thursday, and eat out Friday-Sunday. I'm not a big fan of fast food or national chains, so most of the places we go are local. Some favorites in our rotation (as in non special occason places) include: Wild Wing Cafe, Chicks Oyster Bar, Lubo, Manninos, Zia Marie, Luna Maya, and Bakers Crust. I do do some chains: California Pizza Kitchen, PF Changs, Yard House, Gordon Biersch, and Chipotle.
What are your favorite foods?
Put simply: nothing healthy...and lots of carbs. I love sweets, cheeses, breads, pasta...super, huh?!? Nachos and Mexican food in general also top my list.
What are your favorite desserts?
Um, pretty much all. Seriously, I have over 100 in my recipe box as ones I have personally tried and loved. It's a little embarrassing. But let's try to narrow this down some.
Ice cream, particularly chocolate peanut butter, is definitely my go to for something to have at home. I'm also a sucker for warm chocolate chip cookie kind of things. Other desserts that really entice me: pecan pie, apple pie, pumpkin pie, cupcakes, chocolate peanut butter anything, key lime pie, eclair cake...the list could probably go on and on.
Do you like to cook or bake? What are your favorites to make?
I love, love, love to cook and bake. I make dinner for our little family about 4 nights a week and honestly enjoy doing it. Some of my favorite dinners: chicken fajitas, asparagus carbonarra, honey pecan pork chops.
I try to limit my baking because I end up eating too much bad-for-me stuff when I do it! I really love trying out new recipes, though, so I eventually bite the bullet and then try to convince Josh to bring my goodies to the office! For the most part, I tend to love everything I bake (!) and then log them away for when they fit an event in the future.
Do you have any food allergies?
Nope!
What are some foods you have a hard time saying "no" to?
In case it hasn't already been well established, my major weakness is sweets. If they're around, I"m more than likely going to attack them. I'm also a big dip person. And I'm a sucker for some bread and butter.
Which foods do you HAVE to name brand? Which can you go generic?
I tend to buy name brand for just about everything. Honestly, I've never really realized that until this question. Funny thing is I don't HAVE to buy any of them name brand (I don't think); I just do it! So, mental note moving forward maybe search out some of those generics.
Do you try to eat healthy?
Yes. I actually try very hard to eat healthy, and considering what I've already disclosed, you can probably pick up on the fact that eating healthy is really a struggle for me. I would say Monday-Friday I do an awesome job at it, and I do a mediocre job of it Saturday-Sunday!
Do you prefer eating out? Where?
I grew up eating out frequently (like my parents don't eat a single meal at home...ever!), so eating out is definitely something I am very much accustomed to. Unlike my parents, though, I also enjoy eating at home. Usually we eat at home Monday-Thursday, and eat out Friday-Sunday. I'm not a big fan of fast food or national chains, so most of the places we go are local. Some favorites in our rotation (as in non special occason places) include: Wild Wing Cafe, Chicks Oyster Bar, Lubo, Manninos, Zia Marie, Luna Maya, and Bakers Crust. I do do some chains: California Pizza Kitchen, PF Changs, Yard House, Gordon Biersch, and Chipotle.
May 3, 2013
This is Me: Sleep
So I've been doing this little "This is Me" challenge for awhile now. The next chapter up is sleep. Admittedly, that doesn't make for very riveting reading I'm sure, but a commitment is a commitment, so let's proceed...
How many hours do you sleep at night?
Generally a nice and healthy 8! I'm definitely no night owl, and pretty much impose a 10PM bedtime on myself on weeknights! Josh wakes up for work around 6, and with the noise of his alarm, shower, etc., I pretty much wake up then too! Of course, one of the luxuries of being a SAHM is that I actually lay in bed til about 7:15 (unless one of the boys interrupts my peace!).
Do you take naps?
Nope! Never! Well, maybe once or twice a year, but generally I'm go-go-go all day!
Do you like a lot, or few blankets and pillows?
We usually watch tv in bed before falling asleep, so I usually fall asleep on my two pillows (used to prop myself up for tv watching). At some point overnight, though, I generally ditch the second pillow. As for covers, just a sheet and duvet are all I need. Oh, and I also have developed a weird need to have my arms around something when I sleep, so I use a small throw pillow for that. Strangely, this is my must-have sleep item!
Can you sleep anywhere or does it have to be your own bed?
I can pretty much sleep anywhere, but I have to have some sort of pillow to wrap my arms around! Although I can sleep anywhere, I definitely prefer my own bed and sleep best there!
What are your conditions for a good night's sleep? Does it have to be completely dark and quiet?
I can sleep with noise as long as it's not right in my ear! In fact, we sometimes fall asleep with the tv still on and turn it off later in the night. Josh's snoring, and sometimes even breathing, though, can really keep me up sometimes, particularly if I wake up in the middle of the night. Obviously we turn off the lights to sleep, but I think I could sleep in any degree of light!
How many hours do you sleep at night?
Generally a nice and healthy 8! I'm definitely no night owl, and pretty much impose a 10PM bedtime on myself on weeknights! Josh wakes up for work around 6, and with the noise of his alarm, shower, etc., I pretty much wake up then too! Of course, one of the luxuries of being a SAHM is that I actually lay in bed til about 7:15 (unless one of the boys interrupts my peace!).
Do you take naps?
Nope! Never! Well, maybe once or twice a year, but generally I'm go-go-go all day!
Do you like a lot, or few blankets and pillows?
We usually watch tv in bed before falling asleep, so I usually fall asleep on my two pillows (used to prop myself up for tv watching). At some point overnight, though, I generally ditch the second pillow. As for covers, just a sheet and duvet are all I need. Oh, and I also have developed a weird need to have my arms around something when I sleep, so I use a small throw pillow for that. Strangely, this is my must-have sleep item!
Can you sleep anywhere or does it have to be your own bed?
I can pretty much sleep anywhere, but I have to have some sort of pillow to wrap my arms around! Although I can sleep anywhere, I definitely prefer my own bed and sleep best there!
What are your conditions for a good night's sleep? Does it have to be completely dark and quiet?
I can sleep with noise as long as it's not right in my ear! In fact, we sometimes fall asleep with the tv still on and turn it off later in the night. Josh's snoring, and sometimes even breathing, though, can really keep me up sometimes, particularly if I wake up in the middle of the night. Obviously we turn off the lights to sleep, but I think I could sleep in any degree of light!
April 19, 2013
This is Me: Home Life
I'm plugging away at the This is Me challenge, answering about a bajillion questions about myself, and it's time for another installment. Actually, I skipped a whole chapter: religion because all of the questions had to do with stuff we Jews don't actually do/believe/etc. So now I'm on to home life. Let's begin, shall we?
Describe the places you've lived.
I've lived in Virginia Beach my whole life, except for my college years and the first years of Josh and my relationship (although those were in Chesapeake which is right over the Virginia Beach line!)
I was born in a townhouse that I barely remember. When I was about 4, we moved into a house my parents had built (well, they didn't actually build it, but it was built for us). I don't remember more than the fact that it was two stories and white. When I was in Kindergarten, we moved into the house that I grew up in. It was a one story house with four bedrooms, 3 baths, plus a playroom, dining room, kitchen, and living room.
When I went away to college, I lived in the dorm my first year. My second year I got a house with five other girls. And in my last two years, I lived in a two-bedroom apartment with a roommate (with two other friends across the hall in another two-bedroom apartment).
Post-college, I had a brief stint in an awful one-bedroom apartment in Charlottesville. There was a common area kitchen and living room that I technically shared with three other people...BUT I DIDN'T KNOW, NOR EVER MEET, THE THREE OTHER PEOPLE. It was awful! When I left Charlottesville, I moved back in with my parents for about a year (although Josh claims I lived with him and his roommate for most of that time!), and then Josh and I got our first apartment together...
It was a two-bedroom, two-bath "luxury" (I use that word very loosely...they called it luxury, but I would politely disagree) apartment in Greenbrier. Josh and I bought our little townhouse right before we got married...a 2 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath about 2 minutes away from our apartment. And finally, we moved into our current house right before Colton was born, about 3 years ago. We went from 1200ish square feet to 2500ish square feet overnight and felt like we had sooo much room...now, we are already tentatively thinking about moving again in a couple years because we are already out of space!!!
What was your favorite house or apartment?
I honestly don't think I can choose! Obviously the house that I grew up in was home, so it holds a special place in my heart. I loved the little apartment Josh and I first lived in together, but honestly I don't think it had much to do with the actual apartment...we had so much fun there, I loved living with him (it was my first live with a boyfriend experience), and life was just good. And obviously, I have a special fondness for our current house...the house we are raising our family in. This house has a lot of features that make me really happy...our screened-in porch and the kitchen especially. Plus, we are making so many memories here that I'm sure I will cherish for years and years to come...like bringing both boys home, countless birthday parties, Christamses, etc.
How do you like to decorate?
I think I would describe my style as a combination of beachy, modern, comfortable, and light. I don't usually like "expensive" art work, so instead I like to have things that are meaningful on the walls or things that are homemade!
What is it about home that you love?
I already mentioned my kitchen and screened-in porch as the two places in this house that I love most. But I love this home because it is comfortable, and secure, and happy. The boys have both been born and raised in this house. We play a lot here, and hear lots of laughter here, and I will always love this house for that!
How has your standard for life changed throughout the years?
Honestly, Josh and I lived outside our means for awhile, so I don't know if our standard has changed all that much! Now, we can actually afford what we are buying, though!
Describe the places you've lived.
I've lived in Virginia Beach my whole life, except for my college years and the first years of Josh and my relationship (although those were in Chesapeake which is right over the Virginia Beach line!)
I was born in a townhouse that I barely remember. When I was about 4, we moved into a house my parents had built (well, they didn't actually build it, but it was built for us). I don't remember more than the fact that it was two stories and white. When I was in Kindergarten, we moved into the house that I grew up in. It was a one story house with four bedrooms, 3 baths, plus a playroom, dining room, kitchen, and living room.
When I went away to college, I lived in the dorm my first year. My second year I got a house with five other girls. And in my last two years, I lived in a two-bedroom apartment with a roommate (with two other friends across the hall in another two-bedroom apartment).
Post-college, I had a brief stint in an awful one-bedroom apartment in Charlottesville. There was a common area kitchen and living room that I technically shared with three other people...BUT I DIDN'T KNOW, NOR EVER MEET, THE THREE OTHER PEOPLE. It was awful! When I left Charlottesville, I moved back in with my parents for about a year (although Josh claims I lived with him and his roommate for most of that time!), and then Josh and I got our first apartment together...
It was a two-bedroom, two-bath "luxury" (I use that word very loosely...they called it luxury, but I would politely disagree) apartment in Greenbrier. Josh and I bought our little townhouse right before we got married...a 2 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath about 2 minutes away from our apartment. And finally, we moved into our current house right before Colton was born, about 3 years ago. We went from 1200ish square feet to 2500ish square feet overnight and felt like we had sooo much room...now, we are already tentatively thinking about moving again in a couple years because we are already out of space!!!
What was your favorite house or apartment?
I honestly don't think I can choose! Obviously the house that I grew up in was home, so it holds a special place in my heart. I loved the little apartment Josh and I first lived in together, but honestly I don't think it had much to do with the actual apartment...we had so much fun there, I loved living with him (it was my first live with a boyfriend experience), and life was just good. And obviously, I have a special fondness for our current house...the house we are raising our family in. This house has a lot of features that make me really happy...our screened-in porch and the kitchen especially. Plus, we are making so many memories here that I'm sure I will cherish for years and years to come...like bringing both boys home, countless birthday parties, Christamses, etc.
How do you like to decorate?
I think I would describe my style as a combination of beachy, modern, comfortable, and light. I don't usually like "expensive" art work, so instead I like to have things that are meaningful on the walls or things that are homemade!
What is it about home that you love?
I already mentioned my kitchen and screened-in porch as the two places in this house that I love most. But I love this home because it is comfortable, and secure, and happy. The boys have both been born and raised in this house. We play a lot here, and hear lots of laughter here, and I will always love this house for that!
How has your standard for life changed throughout the years?
Honestly, Josh and I lived outside our means for awhile, so I don't know if our standard has changed all that much! Now, we can actually afford what we are buying, though!
April 5, 2013
This Is Me: Celebrations
It has been a few weeks since I took on another "This is Me" chapter, so I figured I better get on it! For those of you unfamiliar with this little challenge, I found it on Pinterest (or you can find it here) and thought it sounded like a good idea to record my personal history of sorts. There's about 20 different sections, so I'm slowly getting there! Now on to this week's topic: celebrations...
What are some of your personal and/or family traditions for each holiday?
I should probably reiterate before I begin that I am a big cornball when it comes to traditions. I love having them and have worked hard to establish some for our little family. Since the boys are so young, a lot of them have just begun in the last couple of years or less, so it's hard to say for certain which ones are traditions that we'll continue vs. one year phenomenons! But for argument's sake, I'll just list the things that I have enjoyed and hope to continues. So let's start with January and work our way through a year of holidays!
New Years: no real traditions as of yet, but we did do an early midnight toast with the boys around 8 this year
Valentines Day: the boys get a little gift of some kind, we make special treats/Valentines to deliver to all our local Valentines, Josh and I get an actual date night (but usually not on actual Valentine's Day...amateur night as Josh likes to call it!), we prepare a special meal at home on Valentine's night
St. Patrick's Day: make leprechaun traps
Easter: dye eggs, surpriseegg hunt in our yard (creative, huh?!?)
4th of July: beach day...cookout and party
Back to School: back to school fairy visits, special breakfast and cake for first day
Halloween: trick or treat (duh!)
Thanksgiving: leaf photo shoot, watch the parade
Hanukkah: craft, latkes, family party
Christmas: Christmastown, tree decorating/hot chocolate night, drive to see the lights, Chirstmas Eve Open House
What traditions have you carried over from your childhood? Which ones did you start in your own family?
Considering I didn't celebrate many of the above holidays growing up Jewish, I've created a lot of the traditions on my own. The only one I can see as coming from my childhood would be our family Hanukkah party. Growing up, I distinctly remember huge Hanukkah parties at my grandma's house with all my cousins, lots of presents, and lots of revelry! We now do the same thing with my parents, aunt and uncle, and the ever-increasing amount of baby cousins!
How do you celebrate adults birthdays?
Well, I leave it up to Josh to plan my birthday celebration and I plan his. In general, though, we tend to go out to a nice dinner with my whole family for mine. For his, we tend to do a more casual dinner out with his family members. Then, we tend to do either a date night or night out with friends in addition.
How do you celebrate kids birthdays?
BIG! We surprise the kids on their birthday morning with balloons in their room. And then it is totally their day...they choose breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For dinner, we invite over any family members who want to come join us for that and cake, and it is there that the kids open their gifts! The day is devoted to doing the kid's favorite activity or activity of choice. Plus, the kids have their birthday parties, which mommy tends to go a bit overboard on!
How do you celebrate your anniversary?
Josh and I do not give gifts for our anniversary, and instead choose to use the money we would have spent to buy something together...past year's choices have included a new puppy, a new bedroom set, and a weekend getaway. The night of our anniversary is definitely a date night and at the end of the night, we come home and write down some anniversary facts: stuff we've done over the year, trips we've taken, big things that have happened, etc.
What are some of your personal and/or family traditions for each holiday?
I should probably reiterate before I begin that I am a big cornball when it comes to traditions. I love having them and have worked hard to establish some for our little family. Since the boys are so young, a lot of them have just begun in the last couple of years or less, so it's hard to say for certain which ones are traditions that we'll continue vs. one year phenomenons! But for argument's sake, I'll just list the things that I have enjoyed and hope to continues. So let's start with January and work our way through a year of holidays!
New Years: no real traditions as of yet, but we did do an early midnight toast with the boys around 8 this year
Valentines Day: the boys get a little gift of some kind, we make special treats/Valentines to deliver to all our local Valentines, Josh and I get an actual date night (but usually not on actual Valentine's Day...amateur night as Josh likes to call it!), we prepare a special meal at home on Valentine's night
St. Patrick's Day: make leprechaun traps
Easter: dye eggs, surpriseegg hunt in our yard (creative, huh?!?)
4th of July: beach day...cookout and party
Back to School: back to school fairy visits, special breakfast and cake for first day
Halloween: trick or treat (duh!)
Thanksgiving: leaf photo shoot, watch the parade
Hanukkah: craft, latkes, family party
Christmas: Christmastown, tree decorating/hot chocolate night, drive to see the lights, Chirstmas Eve Open House
Obviously, not much originality, but they're all near and dear to my heart!
What traditions have you carried over from your childhood? Which ones did you start in your own family?
Considering I didn't celebrate many of the above holidays growing up Jewish, I've created a lot of the traditions on my own. The only one I can see as coming from my childhood would be our family Hanukkah party. Growing up, I distinctly remember huge Hanukkah parties at my grandma's house with all my cousins, lots of presents, and lots of revelry! We now do the same thing with my parents, aunt and uncle, and the ever-increasing amount of baby cousins!
How do you celebrate adults birthdays?
Well, I leave it up to Josh to plan my birthday celebration and I plan his. In general, though, we tend to go out to a nice dinner with my whole family for mine. For his, we tend to do a more casual dinner out with his family members. Then, we tend to do either a date night or night out with friends in addition.
How do you celebrate kids birthdays?
BIG! We surprise the kids on their birthday morning with balloons in their room. And then it is totally their day...they choose breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For dinner, we invite over any family members who want to come join us for that and cake, and it is there that the kids open their gifts! The day is devoted to doing the kid's favorite activity or activity of choice. Plus, the kids have their birthday parties, which mommy tends to go a bit overboard on!
How do you celebrate your anniversary?
Josh and I do not give gifts for our anniversary, and instead choose to use the money we would have spent to buy something together...past year's choices have included a new puppy, a new bedroom set, and a weekend getaway. The night of our anniversary is definitely a date night and at the end of the night, we come home and write down some anniversary facts: stuff we've done over the year, trips we've taken, big things that have happened, etc.
March 8, 2013
This Is Me: Children
It's been a few weeks since I conquered another chapter of my This is Me challenge, so I figured I better get on it! Luckily, this week's topic happens to be something I have absolutely zero problems talking about: my lovely children. Let's get started, shall we?
Give your children's full names, birth dates, and places.Oh Internet, I love you, but my super-skeptical husband would have a fit if I gave out our children's full names. So, we'll just go with first and middle! Colton Hoyte was born March 26, 2010 (at 10:19 AM if it matters) at Virginia Beach General in Virginia Beach. Levi Shane was born on January 4, 2012 (at 8:14 AM) at DePaul Hosptial in Norfolk (boo for Beach General shutting down their maternity ward in between my two boys' arrivals!).
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| Colton |
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| Levi |
How did you choose their names?
Both boys are named after relatives of ours. Colton's first name is for my grandmother (whose name was Constance (Connie)...C for C in case you're not making the connection), and his middle name, Hoyte, is a handed down middle name from Josh, his father, his grandfather, and maybe even further back than that. Levi is named after Josh's grandmother, and his middle name, Shane, is for my other grandmother (Shirley). We knew we wanted to honor those people, so purposely limited ourselves to names with those letters. Middle names were fairly easy for both, but we went back and forth over first names for quite some time with each of them. Funny story: I actually had an epiphany while watching The Real Housewives of Orange County while I was pregnant with Colton...we had yet to agree on a name, and I realized I loved Jeanna Keough's son's name (colton). Josh had previously thrown out Colt, so I figured it would be an easy sell...it wasn't, but we see who won in the end, right?!?
What were the circumstances of each child's birth?
At 36 weeks, we discovered Colton was breached. He never turned, so I had a scheduled C-section with him. Honestly, it was pretty nice that way, so instead of pushing the envelope with Levi, we just did another scheduled C-section.
What are some funny things that each child does or says?
Holy moly...I could write a whole book, and now that I'm under pressure, I can't think of anything!
Right now, I love when Colton says "silly me" after he makes a mistake. Honestly, though, most things a 3 year old says are pretty funny! He's really into singing these days and will spontaneously bust out a "Baa Baa Black Sheep," "Wheels on the Bus," or even his own creation. Colton is also starting to sing along with regular radio songs, especially Justin Timberlake's "Suit and Tie."
Speaking of singing, Levi joins in with "Wheels on the Bus," particularly the "bump, bump, bump" part! He also really likes to bark like a dog! He's very talented, y'all! Levi also gives the sweetest kisses on demand...big mouth wide open ones. Levi loves to show his belly, and does so by proudly lifting his shirt to reveal the big ole white space, all with a huge grin on his face.
What do you love most about your children? What are their strengths/weaknesses?
Love most about them? Not to cop out, but I'm going to go on a bit of a rant here. I hate those kind of questions...about anyone! I don't feel like I love parts of someone...I love their sum. And that obviously holds true for my children. Sure, they have strengths and weaknesses (which I will elaborate on in just a few seconds), BUT I truly love the people they have already become...each and every part of them!
So on to those strengths and weaknesses. Colton is a very easy-going child. He is usually the laid back, well-behaved one in a group (although at home that is starting to change). Colton is a fairly independent child and can play well by himself. He is shy and has a hard time with new things and people. I don't have much to compare him to, but I feel like Colton is pretty smart and has incredible recall ability. He can be shown something one time and remember it forever.
Where Colton tends to stay in the middle, Levi is our child of extremes. For a 14-month old, he's pretty wild and crazy. He's up for anything, and generally has a blast doing it! He laughs a lot. He's also a very loving child, constantly insisting on hugs, kisses, and cuddles. Levi's pretty needy, though, and has a temper of sorts! The boy knows how to work some tears and a good temper tantrum.
What are your children involved in?
Nothing yet, really. Colton goes to school and is about to start swim lessons. Levi has a play group that he goes to on Fridays. They both tend to be very active and keen on things like throwing, kicking (balls of course), shooting hoops, etc, so I'm thinking sports fields will be in our future!
How do you spend time with your children?
The boys and I are always up to something (honestly sometimes I'm running summer camp around here or something)...play dates with friends, bounce house trips, beach/pool in the summer, and parks are some of our regulars. I also make our seasonal to-do lists and have a good time trying out new places/activities with them. When we're at home, we like to play outside if the weather allows it!
What are your favorite family activities?
We take the boys to a lot of sporting events...football games (both live and on tv) in the fall and basketball in the winter. We are also big beach people in the summer (although I have to persuade Josh to join us most of the time). We do a lot of eating out, and while that may not seem like a "family activity," it is something Josh and I really enjoyed pre-kids and I'm happy that we have been able to work the kids into it instead of giving it up!
February 15, 2013
This is Me: Marriage
If you're a regular around here, you know I've been doing a "This is Me" challenge for awhile now, answering a bunch of questions about myself in a quest to totally document my life. The next section to conquer was marriage...so appropriate for Valentine's Day week, right? So, here we go...
How did you meet your spouse? Was it love at first sight or did it take some time?
Josh and I met at a bar...a TGI Friday's to be exact. I was there with a friend, and he was there with a group of friends including his brother. I sat down next to him, and remember striking up conversation over his food because it looked good to me...lame, huh! At the time, I was pretty fresh out of a 2 1/2 year relationship, and thought Josh would end up being just a fun fling.
How long did you date before you got engaged? How long was your engagement?
We dated for just short of 3 years before getting engaged. Our engagement was 8 months, as I wanted to get married in the summer before the school year got started!
How did you get engaged?
The company that Josh was working for at the time had their Christmas party at the Homestead, a historic resort in southwestern Virginia. Obviously, I knew this would be a nice setting for an engagement, so I mentally prepared myself a few times. We stopped in Charlottesville (home of my alma mater) on the way up, and I thought about it then...nothing. We went for a nice walk around the property on the day we got there...again, nothing. Even as we were getting ready for the holiday party, I kind of waited...nothing. We went down to the party, had a good time, and afterwards everyone was going to continue the party at one of the hotel lounges. Josh said he needed to use the restroom in our room first (nothing unusual), so I joined him up there. He went to the bathroom, and then we got ready to go back downstairs. As I opened the hotel room door, I turned around and he was on one knee. I honestly can't tell you anything he said (or even if he said anything at all), but I know I was cracking up (my usual reaction to anything overly happy, sad, etc). Turns out I was right in looking for it throughout the weekend as Josh had been debating different locations to "pop the question," but kept wussing out!
Who did most of the wedding plans? Who helped?
I did most of my own planning...and LOVED it (hence my love for parties to this day!). My parents were footing the bill (I know, I'm lucky), so they were involved in most of the big decisions. And my sister, who was also my maid-of-honor, was also along for lots of the stuff like dress picking, cake tasting, etc.
Who were your bridesmaids/best men?
I already mentioned that my sister was my maid-of-honor. My cousin, Erin, was a bridesmaid as were three of my good friends: Katie, whom I grew up with and was best friends since age 9, Claire, one of my good friends from high school (although we actually met in elementary school as well), and Kristina, one of my teacher friends that I was (and still am) super close to.
Josh had his brother as his best man. My brother was one of his groomsmen along with three of his friends from high school/growing up.
Describe the details of your wedding: the colors, the cake, the decorations, etc.
Our colors were lime green and orange with accents to root it all. The tables were decorated with brown silk tablecloths (that I am not doing a very good job explaining because they were much prettier than that sounds!) with 2 different arrangements: the tall ones were supposed to have limes filling the vases (the florist forgot that part), while the short ones were a collection of smaller vases. For the cake, we went with a whimsical topsy-turvy look. It's probably no surprise now, but I DIYed quite a few of the elements: the table number cards (we did pictures of us at each age), the place card holders (ribbon boards that I made), the programs, an M and J monogram for the door, and more that I'm forgetting.
Where did your wedding take place? Who performed the ceremony? Do you remember any words of advice given?
Our wedding took place at the Princess Anne Country Club in Virginia Beach...ceremony and reception. Rabbi Rosalin Mandelberg officiated the ceremony. She pretty much just read our ketubbah (a Jewish marriage contract) and said a few quick words, and honestly it was so hot in there that I was more focused on Josh and/or me not passing out, so no...I don't remember any words of advice given!
Who attended your wedding?
We had about 150 people there consisting of the usual suspects---family, friends, friends of my parents, friends of Josh's parents.
Where did you go on your honeymoon? What adventures did you have?
We went to Aruba and really didn't have any "adventures." We did a lot of beaching, pool-side hanging, eating/drinking, and general relaxing! One night, we did do the Kukoo-Kunukoo (that may not be the right spelling!) party bus which was a blast! And we did a sunset cruise another night.
And the best part is 5+ years, 2 children, and a dog later, that day was only the beginning:)
How did you meet your spouse? Was it love at first sight or did it take some time?
Josh and I met at a bar...a TGI Friday's to be exact. I was there with a friend, and he was there with a group of friends including his brother. I sat down next to him, and remember striking up conversation over his food because it looked good to me...lame, huh! At the time, I was pretty fresh out of a 2 1/2 year relationship, and thought Josh would end up being just a fun fling.
How long did you date before you got engaged? How long was your engagement?
We dated for just short of 3 years before getting engaged. Our engagement was 8 months, as I wanted to get married in the summer before the school year got started!
How did you get engaged?
The company that Josh was working for at the time had their Christmas party at the Homestead, a historic resort in southwestern Virginia. Obviously, I knew this would be a nice setting for an engagement, so I mentally prepared myself a few times. We stopped in Charlottesville (home of my alma mater) on the way up, and I thought about it then...nothing. We went for a nice walk around the property on the day we got there...again, nothing. Even as we were getting ready for the holiday party, I kind of waited...nothing. We went down to the party, had a good time, and afterwards everyone was going to continue the party at one of the hotel lounges. Josh said he needed to use the restroom in our room first (nothing unusual), so I joined him up there. He went to the bathroom, and then we got ready to go back downstairs. As I opened the hotel room door, I turned around and he was on one knee. I honestly can't tell you anything he said (or even if he said anything at all), but I know I was cracking up (my usual reaction to anything overly happy, sad, etc). Turns out I was right in looking for it throughout the weekend as Josh had been debating different locations to "pop the question," but kept wussing out!
Who did most of the wedding plans? Who helped?
I did most of my own planning...and LOVED it (hence my love for parties to this day!). My parents were footing the bill (I know, I'm lucky), so they were involved in most of the big decisions. And my sister, who was also my maid-of-honor, was also along for lots of the stuff like dress picking, cake tasting, etc.
Who were your bridesmaids/best men?
I already mentioned that my sister was my maid-of-honor. My cousin, Erin, was a bridesmaid as were three of my good friends: Katie, whom I grew up with and was best friends since age 9, Claire, one of my good friends from high school (although we actually met in elementary school as well), and Kristina, one of my teacher friends that I was (and still am) super close to.
Josh had his brother as his best man. My brother was one of his groomsmen along with three of his friends from high school/growing up.
Describe the details of your wedding: the colors, the cake, the decorations, etc.
Our colors were lime green and orange with accents to root it all. The tables were decorated with brown silk tablecloths (that I am not doing a very good job explaining because they were much prettier than that sounds!) with 2 different arrangements: the tall ones were supposed to have limes filling the vases (the florist forgot that part), while the short ones were a collection of smaller vases. For the cake, we went with a whimsical topsy-turvy look. It's probably no surprise now, but I DIYed quite a few of the elements: the table number cards (we did pictures of us at each age), the place card holders (ribbon boards that I made), the programs, an M and J monogram for the door, and more that I'm forgetting.
Where did your wedding take place? Who performed the ceremony? Do you remember any words of advice given?
Our wedding took place at the Princess Anne Country Club in Virginia Beach...ceremony and reception. Rabbi Rosalin Mandelberg officiated the ceremony. She pretty much just read our ketubbah (a Jewish marriage contract) and said a few quick words, and honestly it was so hot in there that I was more focused on Josh and/or me not passing out, so no...I don't remember any words of advice given!
Who attended your wedding?
We had about 150 people there consisting of the usual suspects---family, friends, friends of my parents, friends of Josh's parents.
Where did you go on your honeymoon? What adventures did you have?
We went to Aruba and really didn't have any "adventures." We did a lot of beaching, pool-side hanging, eating/drinking, and general relaxing! One night, we did do the Kukoo-Kunukoo (that may not be the right spelling!) party bus which was a blast! And we did a sunset cruise another night.
And the best part is 5+ years, 2 children, and a dog later, that day was only the beginning:)
February 8, 2013
This is Me: Work.
I'm back to my This is Me challenge, and this week's topic is work. For those of you new to this party, I found a pin that basically has 16 sections of questions that will document your entire life. It sounded like fun, so I have been attacking a section every other week or so. You can read my past entries if you wish by clicking the "this is me" category, but for now, let's just get started:
What jobs have you had (give details about dates, places, responsibilities, etc)?
We'll start most recently and work our way backwards. Before I became a stay-at-home mom, I was a first grade teacher at WH Taylor Elementary in Norfolk for 6 years. My first year there I actually taught Kindergarten. Before that, I worked as a Kindergarten aide and in the office at the preschool my mom taught at...Baylake Pines in Virginia Beach...for about a year and half while I was in school getting my teaching license/Master's Degree. That's when I was on my teaching track, but when I graduated from college I actually had no idea what the f- I was going to do with myself. There was actually a few month span, then, from about September 2003 to January 2004 where I worked at STA Travel (a student travel agency) on my alma mater's campus (UVA). That is my only "real job" experience.
As for fun jobs, I worked as a lifeguard, swim lesson teacher, and swim coach at the Princess Anne Country Club for 5 summers, from 1999 to 2004. Prior to those summers, I worked as an umbrella attendant (yes you read that correctly) on the beach for a summer. Basically, I had to set up chairs and umbrellas for an hour, sit on the beach for about 6 collecting money from people, and then take them all down at the end of the day. I wonder if they'd still hire me this summer?!?
What did you like/dislike about each job?
Teaching: loved working with kids, felt like I was making a difference, liked planning for each day/month/year and then executing it, enjoyed getting to celebrate holidays and special days like a little kid again, loved the schedule and variety of each day; didn't like crappy students or parents that could ruin a day or even year.
STA Travel: liked that I was in Charlottesville with my boyfriend of the time, didn't like anything else about it...boring and depressing to sit at a computer all day doing the same thing, pressure to make sales and I'm not a "sales" person!, salary was absolutely pathetic. Needless to say, when aforementioned boyfriend and I broke up, I was out of there (well technically I got fired, but I always say I quit/got fired)
PACC: some of the best years of my life, loved the people I worked with, the families I got to know, etc. It was a lot of long hours, but at the time, I loved being there anyway, so it really didn't matter!
Beach Umbrellas: Um, I got paid to sit on the beach all day...need I say more.
What did you learn at each job?
Teaching: that I'm meant to be a teacher (if I'm going to work!), how to effectively manage a classroom and key discipline techniques I currently use with my own children
STA Travel: that I'm not cut out for office work and/or sales, that sometimes it is better to walk away when things aren't working out because then you may just get to where you're meant to be
PACC: people respect hard work and you get tons of benefits if you put it in!
Beach Umbrellas: wear sunscreen, Arby's makes a freaking good Jamocha shake (there was one right on the Boardwalk that used to provide my daily lunch)
Have you used any of that knowledge in later years?
Yeah, I would say I've used it all and probably more, but then again, I am a firm believer that you are a product of all your decisions good and bad, so it would have been impossible not to.
Who were your bosses? Did you like/get along with them?
When I taught, my principal was Ms. Bowen. We got along really well...she respected and appreciated the job I did, and I loved working for her. We weren't like hanging out buddies or anything, but it was a very good working relationship and I still stop in to see her every now and then with the boys.
I'm not sure I remember my boss's name at STA, but she was a weird cookie. She had never been "boss" before and had only started as "boss" about a week before I got hired. She was in way over her head and had no idea how manage. For the first few months I worked there, we got along well and she even had me (and boyfriend at the time) over for dinner a few times. But then came our quick demise that eventually led to my quitting/firing (it's a long story, but it came down to her insisting I do something that I felt was totally an abuse of her power, I said I wouldn't do it, she said if I didn't do it, I would get fired...I didn't do it, I got fired).
My boss at the PACC was Scott Evans, a man who became a good family friend, especially since both my brother and sister eventually worked there as well. Everyone who knows Scott loved him, and I did too.
Beach umbrellas: Honestly, I can't even tell you who the bosses were, a bunch of older men that were associated with Virginia Beach Lifesaving Services. I didn't have a personal relationship with any of them.
How did you get along with your coworkers?
I made really good friendships (and even one long-term boyfriend) at each and every job. My teaching coworkers remain some of my closest friends. My only coworker at STA Travel became one of my best friends at that time...she quit the same day I got fired (out of protest!) and although life took us in different directions, we still chat on Facebook every now and then.
Which was your favorite job?
I guess I would have to say working at the PACC because at the time, it was kind of my everything! Then again, it was a "summer job" and not a real job, in that I didn't need the income, it was less pressure, less requirements, etc. so it's probably unfair to compare it with teaching.
How many years until you retire?
I think I've retired. Kind of. I'd like to think I'll work in some capacity again (part time or my own business), but I don't see myself returning to full-time teaching.
Do you have any big plans for your retirement?
Considering I'm 32 and in the throes of raising two young ones, retirement seems eons away. I have no plans for it...
What jobs have you had (give details about dates, places, responsibilities, etc)?
We'll start most recently and work our way backwards. Before I became a stay-at-home mom, I was a first grade teacher at WH Taylor Elementary in Norfolk for 6 years. My first year there I actually taught Kindergarten. Before that, I worked as a Kindergarten aide and in the office at the preschool my mom taught at...Baylake Pines in Virginia Beach...for about a year and half while I was in school getting my teaching license/Master's Degree. That's when I was on my teaching track, but when I graduated from college I actually had no idea what the f- I was going to do with myself. There was actually a few month span, then, from about September 2003 to January 2004 where I worked at STA Travel (a student travel agency) on my alma mater's campus (UVA). That is my only "real job" experience.
As for fun jobs, I worked as a lifeguard, swim lesson teacher, and swim coach at the Princess Anne Country Club for 5 summers, from 1999 to 2004. Prior to those summers, I worked as an umbrella attendant (yes you read that correctly) on the beach for a summer. Basically, I had to set up chairs and umbrellas for an hour, sit on the beach for about 6 collecting money from people, and then take them all down at the end of the day. I wonder if they'd still hire me this summer?!?
What did you like/dislike about each job?
Teaching: loved working with kids, felt like I was making a difference, liked planning for each day/month/year and then executing it, enjoyed getting to celebrate holidays and special days like a little kid again, loved the schedule and variety of each day; didn't like crappy students or parents that could ruin a day or even year.
STA Travel: liked that I was in Charlottesville with my boyfriend of the time, didn't like anything else about it...boring and depressing to sit at a computer all day doing the same thing, pressure to make sales and I'm not a "sales" person!, salary was absolutely pathetic. Needless to say, when aforementioned boyfriend and I broke up, I was out of there (well technically I got fired, but I always say I quit/got fired)
PACC: some of the best years of my life, loved the people I worked with, the families I got to know, etc. It was a lot of long hours, but at the time, I loved being there anyway, so it really didn't matter!
Beach Umbrellas: Um, I got paid to sit on the beach all day...need I say more.
What did you learn at each job?
Teaching: that I'm meant to be a teacher (if I'm going to work!), how to effectively manage a classroom and key discipline techniques I currently use with my own children
STA Travel: that I'm not cut out for office work and/or sales, that sometimes it is better to walk away when things aren't working out because then you may just get to where you're meant to be
PACC: people respect hard work and you get tons of benefits if you put it in!
Beach Umbrellas: wear sunscreen, Arby's makes a freaking good Jamocha shake (there was one right on the Boardwalk that used to provide my daily lunch)
Have you used any of that knowledge in later years?
Yeah, I would say I've used it all and probably more, but then again, I am a firm believer that you are a product of all your decisions good and bad, so it would have been impossible not to.
Who were your bosses? Did you like/get along with them?
When I taught, my principal was Ms. Bowen. We got along really well...she respected and appreciated the job I did, and I loved working for her. We weren't like hanging out buddies or anything, but it was a very good working relationship and I still stop in to see her every now and then with the boys.
I'm not sure I remember my boss's name at STA, but she was a weird cookie. She had never been "boss" before and had only started as "boss" about a week before I got hired. She was in way over her head and had no idea how manage. For the first few months I worked there, we got along well and she even had me (and boyfriend at the time) over for dinner a few times. But then came our quick demise that eventually led to my quitting/firing (it's a long story, but it came down to her insisting I do something that I felt was totally an abuse of her power, I said I wouldn't do it, she said if I didn't do it, I would get fired...I didn't do it, I got fired).
My boss at the PACC was Scott Evans, a man who became a good family friend, especially since both my brother and sister eventually worked there as well. Everyone who knows Scott loved him, and I did too.
Beach umbrellas: Honestly, I can't even tell you who the bosses were, a bunch of older men that were associated with Virginia Beach Lifesaving Services. I didn't have a personal relationship with any of them.
How did you get along with your coworkers?
I made really good friendships (and even one long-term boyfriend) at each and every job. My teaching coworkers remain some of my closest friends. My only coworker at STA Travel became one of my best friends at that time...she quit the same day I got fired (out of protest!) and although life took us in different directions, we still chat on Facebook every now and then.
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| my first grade team (+1 other who had moved up to an older grade by this point)...still in touch with all of them:) |
Which was your favorite job?
I guess I would have to say working at the PACC because at the time, it was kind of my everything! Then again, it was a "summer job" and not a real job, in that I didn't need the income, it was less pressure, less requirements, etc. so it's probably unfair to compare it with teaching.
How many years until you retire?
I think I've retired. Kind of. I'd like to think I'll work in some capacity again (part time or my own business), but I don't see myself returning to full-time teaching.
Do you have any big plans for your retirement?
Considering I'm 32 and in the throes of raising two young ones, retirement seems eons away. I have no plans for it...
January 25, 2013
This is Me: The College Years
Between the holidays and Levi's birthday, I haven't kept up with my "This is Me" reporting. But I'm back now, so let's get back on track, shall we? For those of you who don't know what I'm talking about, I found a "This is Me" challenge on Pinterest and have been busy attacking one section at a time. This week's entry is the college years. Here we go:
Did you attend college or a trade school of some sort?
I went to UVA (University of Virginia) in Charlottesville. Wahoowa!
How did you choose what you wanted to be when you grew up?
Well, I didn't choose in college. In college, we were told to pick a major based on what we enjoyed, not so much on a future career. I majored in psychology. I enjoyed it, but when I left college,I quickly found that my degree was pretty much useless in that it really didn't direct me toward a particular field (in fairness, I wasn't but so aggressive with it). I took a lame-o office job and hated it for many reasons, but one being that I couldn't fathom sitting down at the same desk, for the same 8ish hours a day, doing the same thing more or less day in and day out for eternity. In brainstorming what else I could do, I kept coming back to how much I had enjoyed working with children (I had been a swim coach over the summer for 5 years). And to kind of fast forward this story, I landed on teaching as my career.
What did you think was the hardest part of your chosen profession at the time? Did it turn out to be?
I don't know if I really gave it much thought before entering teaching. I would guess I worried most about being strong enough to maintain discipline in my classroom, but that turned out to be one of my strengths as a teacher.
What dumb things did you do during those years?
Honestly, I was kind of lame in college. I had a serious boyfriend at the time and invested all my energy into that, thinking I was ready to get married and have kids immediately. So my dumbest choice would probably have been not taking advantage of the relative lack of responsibility, amazing schedule, and tons of drinking opportunities to live it up and have a better time! Oh, and I overdrafted my bank account constantly...
What good things did you do?
Well, I maintained a good GPA the whole time. I had a lot of fun at Foxfields each year (our annual horse races/party day). I grew up a lot and learned to appreciate my true friends and amazing family.
Did you live on your own?
I lived in the dorms my first year with a random roommate. My second year I moved into a house with 5 other girls. And then for my third and fourth years, I shared a 2-bedroom apartment with one other girl, while two of our other friends lived across the hall.
What life lessons did you learn?
I guess I would go back to my family here. Before I left for college, I was so anxious to get out of Virginia Beach and go somewhere new. And as much as I loved UVA, Charlottesville, and being independent, we all know where I ended up...mainly because I learned over those years how lucky I am to have a strong support system in my family.
What choices did you make that affect who you are now?
In the big scheme of things, I truthfully think of my college years as some of my least formative. I'm sure I made some decisions then that affect me today, but nothing really sticks out. I kind of feel like I spent those four years in a bubble and then got back on my track once I left...
Did you attend college or a trade school of some sort?
I went to UVA (University of Virginia) in Charlottesville. Wahoowa!
| my gorgeous alma mater |
How did you choose what you wanted to be when you grew up?
Well, I didn't choose in college. In college, we were told to pick a major based on what we enjoyed, not so much on a future career. I majored in psychology. I enjoyed it, but when I left college,I quickly found that my degree was pretty much useless in that it really didn't direct me toward a particular field (in fairness, I wasn't but so aggressive with it). I took a lame-o office job and hated it for many reasons, but one being that I couldn't fathom sitting down at the same desk, for the same 8ish hours a day, doing the same thing more or less day in and day out for eternity. In brainstorming what else I could do, I kept coming back to how much I had enjoyed working with children (I had been a swim coach over the summer for 5 years). And to kind of fast forward this story, I landed on teaching as my career.
What did you think was the hardest part of your chosen profession at the time? Did it turn out to be?
I don't know if I really gave it much thought before entering teaching. I would guess I worried most about being strong enough to maintain discipline in my classroom, but that turned out to be one of my strengths as a teacher.
What dumb things did you do during those years?
Honestly, I was kind of lame in college. I had a serious boyfriend at the time and invested all my energy into that, thinking I was ready to get married and have kids immediately. So my dumbest choice would probably have been not taking advantage of the relative lack of responsibility, amazing schedule, and tons of drinking opportunities to live it up and have a better time! Oh, and I overdrafted my bank account constantly...
What good things did you do?
Well, I maintained a good GPA the whole time. I had a lot of fun at Foxfields each year (our annual horse races/party day). I grew up a lot and learned to appreciate my true friends and amazing family.
Did you live on your own?
I lived in the dorms my first year with a random roommate. My second year I moved into a house with 5 other girls. And then for my third and fourth years, I shared a 2-bedroom apartment with one other girl, while two of our other friends lived across the hall.
What life lessons did you learn?
I guess I would go back to my family here. Before I left for college, I was so anxious to get out of Virginia Beach and go somewhere new. And as much as I loved UVA, Charlottesville, and being independent, we all know where I ended up...mainly because I learned over those years how lucky I am to have a strong support system in my family.
What choices did you make that affect who you are now?
In the big scheme of things, I truthfully think of my college years as some of my least formative. I'm sure I made some decisions then that affect me today, but nothing really sticks out. I kind of feel like I spent those four years in a bubble and then got back on my track once I left...
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