Seeing the World, Through Individual Perspective

Trick or treat...that is the question

2009-10-31T18:21:00.000-07:00

Halloween,

Not one of my favorite holidays, but it was definately an interesting one.

So there is a bit of a difference in Culture here for the Day of Halloween. More celebrated in Cusco and in Peru is November 1 and 2, Dia de Los Muertos. I did not get a chance to see for myself the celebrations in the cemetaries, but I did go to a lecture on the cemetaries and saw a video of what the locals do. There are bands, and visitors to the deceased relatives. The family members clean the burial site and leave offerings that were things that the person liked. My host mother told me that she goes every saturday to visit her husband. Visiting the person allows you to keep them in the spot. If the grave is unattended, a notice is recieved saying that the remains will be removed in the next month if it is not taken care of and paid for. Basically these spots are rented.

It was interesting to see the different perspective on death. It is more hopeful and less morbid. Families are remembered and I would think that it makes the death of a loved one more bearable being able to visit and almost looking at it as the person is still here.

So along with halloween comes tick or treat, or in spanish dulces o trucos. The trick was on me when I got sick from food. I guess if you treat yourself, the trick is inevitable. It wasn´t an option for me, by taking the sweets, I suffered. But, aside from my woes, I was really surprised at Halloween in Peru. I decided to see what all the mayhem was and went into the plaza. I couldn´t believe how agressive the kids were. What was worse is that the parents were more cutthroat than the kids. I was down in thew middle of it all, admiring the little princesses turn into little monsters, but still looking so cute in their dresses. Some of the little girls had amazing costumes and dresses, I was in awe. So in the midst of all this mayhem, I did not buy candy but had so many kids come up to me asking for some. Three boys approached me looking for candy, when I didnt have candy, they asked for money, I wasn´t going to give them money, so after they gave me the suggestion of McDonalds, I told them to wait for me in the plaza and I would come back with something for them. They probably thought I would skip out on them, but I dropped it off and could see how happy they were. For me, there was no trick, just kindness.

On friday, we decided to go celebrate Halloween. There was a party at the school and we went, sans costume. But some others were very much into the holiday they had some crazy costumes. One guy had a spiderman outfit, that just did not fit. He couldn´t even zipper it in the back, the legs and arms were really short, and he had a mask that he could barely see out of. With alcohol as an added factor, he was the most uncoordinated spiderman I had ever seen. He tripped down the stairs and down calle Suecia, and all we could do was laugh. We had a great time at the first bar, and had a few people doing a line dance that we all followed. We turned, salsa-ed, merengue-d, mambo-ed, and shook to the music. IT was so much fun. After a few more bars, I turned in for the night after I couldn´t breathe anymore from the smoke that oppressively filled the dancefloor. But all in all, I went home happy.

Some highlights of the week were visiting the market , which I love because you can tell so much about a culture through the food. We had this superjuice that had pretty much every fruit imaginable,, milk, and even beer. That was an awesome experience, and I had a really nice conversation with the vendor. She was nice eloderly woman, who would not give up work. It was a great experience.

And aside from that I changed my classes to individual, because my goals were definately not what everyone elses were, and I did and city tour. More to come on that topic later...until then, stay safe, and enjoy the holiday.

Special discount to Sacsayhuaman for sexy women

2009-10-29T16:34:00.001-07:00

So, here we are on thursday. I have already had a few difficulties adjusting. I found out that my verizon phone in the US allows people to call me, but I can´t call out. And the phone cards are absolute rip offs. Two Hundred minutes?...how about 20 minutes. One hundred minutes...no, you only get 11 minutes. Thats enough for one phone call to say hi, bye, and maybe get in an "I love you" or "I miss you" or "I did this today." Thank goodness for a Canadian girl who is going to Ecuador and wanted to sell her phone. Then I can actually get my money´s worth....hopefully. Sometimes I think that the phone companies are ladrones, pirates.

Anyways, I will stop the rant. So since my last post I have met new friends, had a few laughs, discovered some new foods and delish drinks. Classes at Amauta are great. They offer so much for the students. I have learned about some of the ruins that I will be visiting soon, I learned about the old streets of central cusco and the meanings behind the streets, as well as how a lot of the streets are original Inca stonewalls. The only difference is that today there is cobblestone, where in the time of the Incas, it was just dirt on the floor and the walls marked the streets. I am told I will advance each week to a new level in my classes, and that I could advance faster with individual sessions. I am really considering it, since all of the grammer is in my head, I just need a refresher and practice. Already I am starting to feel more confident. They are very willing to listen to your concerns and to work with you.

Sunday evening, we had a small tour of the main part of Cusco around the Square. We learned where the good places are to shop, where the local market was, and where the museums and other places of interest were. We learned about a bit of the history of the Incas, and the process of the Spaniards putting Catholicism into the culture and architecture. I asked about the flag of Cusco, because it looks like a rainbow, and I was told it was originally 4 colors for the 4 sections of town, but that they recently changed it to look like a rainbow for a more interesting flag. After the tour, I began to make friends with some others. We decided to eat in a cafe and get to know one another. Reinate is from Switzerland and Susana is from Germany as well as Mattias. I basically hang out with them everyday after classes. They are so great to travel with and to explore the city with because they actually enjoy the cultural aspect. I love the maturity. Every night we go somewhere different. So far we have been to a few bars, tried Cusquena beer, had some really good food, and a lot of laughs. But we don´t stay out too late so, I don´t feel exhausted the next day.

My host family is really nice, and my host mother calls me¨mi vida.¨ She really is an amazing woman, and she is very proud of her three sons. She explained her family history to me, and has been raising her kids on her own due to a tragic accident leaving her without her husband. I really admire her strength and feel really comfortable with her. She told me too that she is a leo and that her husband was a taurus and after I had explained to her that Alex is a leo and I am a taurus, she said that we were a good match and that she wishes every couple to have the same happiness as she was blessed with. Sound Familiar? My grandmother used to say those things about Grandpa. Love really is amazing. And I have a really nice roomate from Switzerland. Aside from the cultural exchange of seeing what peruvian life is like, there is also a cultural exchange within the students. I have so much fun with my classmates.

As for the title. After classes, I love to get together with my German sister Susana and Mattias, and walk around the city. So one day we decided to figure out how to get really close to the statue of Jesus up on the hill. Well we almost got up to the hill, and as it is very common, there are people trying to sell you things left and right. Since the statue is up near the Incan ruins, there was a guy trying to convince us to ride his horses up at Sacsayhuaman. I was not convinced and neither were the others, so it took forever to get the guy to understand we were not interested in his offer. Well, we left and headed back down, and wouldnt you know he was right behind us. He tried to sell it to us again. So we laughed about it saying, you sexy women want to go to sacsayhuaman? I think I´ll take the bus...

We also booked our trip to Machu Picchu. I am really excited. Next weekend we will be at Machu Picchu to see the sun rise. Amazing thought. I will post about that when we come back. We also decided to take the city tour tomorrow, so that means we are going to start our boleto turistico where we can visit mueums, ruins, statues, everything. It has only been one week, but I have already learned so much. More stories to come.

Sunday Morning Misa

2009-10-25T09:29:00.000-07:00

Happy Sunday everyone,

So last night I made my first friend in Peru. This young man, probably about 18 or so, approached me with his paintings. Most people you pass by you have to say "no gracias" because everyone will ask you to look at their crafts. I would love to listen to every single one of them, but you can only do so much. Plus I will be here for two months and probably will end up meeting them all. But his humble demeanor had me interested. Now being an Artist myself, I decided to listen to what he had to say, and I looked through his portfolio. I bought two pictures, one of a little boy, with such emotion in his eyes, and one of 7 ladies selling potatoes. His friend of course asked me to look at his portfolio too, and I did, deciding on one of the landscape, but all in orange, brown and white. They have such amazing talent, and even at the end, after a half hour discussion with him asking me questions about the USA and me asking him about Cusco. He told me he is usually around San Blas and that if I wanted, he would show me around, and help me take pictures of this magnificent city. It thought it was very kind, and gave me a glimpse into how willing Peruvians are to show you about where they come from. Last night, I spent the night in my room, reading, watching TV, listening to the Fireworks at the Plaza, and walking around the hotel, admiring the beauty of the place as it was illuminated by lights. And from my window, a statue of Jesus on the hill was in perfect view, and last night he was the highest thing you could see, with open arms, beautifully lit.

Now we come to this morning. Packing took a while, but When I finally went outside, the weather was perfect. I headed out to the Church where last night, two nuns were outside and willing to talk to me about the mass schedule, and even about what I was doing here. I had to fight to get through a mob of people to get to church on time. There is a celebration honoring one of the saints, hence the fireworks last night, and there thousands of people in the square, eating, talking, preparing dances, and waiting in line for the parade. It made me rethink how a Sunday should be. This IS celebrating Sunday.

Mass made me think. I am so glad to be Catholic. There is nothing more comforting than going to church on Sunday morning, and being able to have something that I can depend on, no matter where I go. The Priest in the Homily, which I surprisingly followed really well, said that we should not be sad, we should always be happy. We should not be quiet, we should get excited and enjoy life that we were blessed with. That is great words to follow. He just solidified why I am here, and that I need to spend every minute enjoying myself. No second thoughts. I am all in, and happy.

Till next time. Buenos dias!

PERU!

2009-10-24T12:50:00.000-07:00

Ahh....sigh of relief. After a few glitches, and a long trip, I am in Peru. I am officially in Cusco, and I can tell already, it will be a place I will always carry with me in my heart. I came to this conclusion very quickly, while sitting in the cutest hotel ever, staring into my coca leaf tea, I realized this was gonna be something unforgettable. It suggests a certain comfort. Think about it; Coca leaves have been a huge part of Peruvian culture for centuries. And if tea equals comfort and Peruvians have been using this for a long time, then I know I will be comfortable here with very genuine people. I don't believe in reading tea leaves, but if those leaves could say something, it would be that I made a great choice, one that will have a lasting effect on my life.

I have to confess that I was not as excited for this trip as I had imagined. Packing and preparing for such a long trip, and making the promise to myself that I would pack as lightly as possible, tying up loose ends, transferring bills, you name it, I did it. I think the combination of the stress, lack of sleep, and a bit of a depression with the fact that I would be by myself for two months, was weighing in on me. Then losing my boarding pass in the security line and having to sit in the WORST seat possible, made me a bit more pensive. But I did get to the airport real early and did not feel rushed, for once, and even had time for a manicure. Running around Lima's airport this morning was complicated, but the spacious window seat with the most stunning view I have ever experienced made up for all of my frustrations, and at that point, the excitement hit me. Now being here and getting to walk around a bit all of my doubt and worries have been pushed out the window. I can't wait to explore more.

And who can complain when you are staying at the coziest hotel for the first night, where they give you friendly service, a cash bar in the room, free toiletries, and chocolates that are called "princesa." I definately cannot complain.

Until the next post..Hasta Luego mis amigos.

Check out a preview of my adventure!!

2009-10-18T14:04:00.000-07:00

For everyone that wants to see a preview of my trip, check this out...Ill be there on Sat!!!

My Title page

2009-10-13T21:29:00.001-07:00

Always up for an adventure

2009-10-06T06:59:00.000-07:00

Here's the thing, I came into a new year with a clean slate and a lot of change on my mind. If there is one thing that scares me, it's becoming stale. you know, when you are at the point where the things you do become monotonous, there is no excitement anymore, and you aren't learning as much as you want to. Lets look back into my last two refreshing years of coming into my own identity, and then explore why I am getting ready for one of the great adventures of my life.

2008- MY year... a lot happened in 2008 that I love to look back on. This was a year of maturing and coming into a new person. I had a new job working with kids in an after-school program in Norwalk. They were an amazing group of kids. We went on trips, they gave me a lot of insight into my own life and made me realize a lot about myself. Leaving the center last September, was a testament to how fulfilling that job was for me and leaving was a difficult thing for me to do. The kids fought for me to stay,offering their snack money as extra incentive for my paycheck, telling me that they will write a letter to get me fired in the new job and then I would have to go back to the center, coming up with all these schemes to get me to stay. Their beautiful and concerned faces told me they had become attached and had a great deal of respect for me, and didn't want another person to leave them. But an opportunity came knocking as working as a victim advocate in new haven and I decided to try it out, unfortunately leaving the kids.
Aside from that, I had enrolled in bartending school, a path that would change my life and led me to wonderful guy named Alejandro Morales, who would become the greatest love of my life, and someone that I could be myself around.

After learning all of the drink recipes, I passed exam and the course and was ready to find a bartending job. Even though they would help me find a job, I decided to find one on my own. The place I found was DUO in Stamford, a place that would change my perspective on life. I had never thought of working in any type of Asian restaurant, but I went into the interview and landed the job. Unfortunately, I didn't end up to be what I expected and I waitressed instead. I can still remember the first day, it was late march, when I met all of the staff. I can remember seeing alex for the first time, his beautiful chocolate eyes looking up at me just barely seen under the brim of his hat, and his warm smile with deep dimples. It took a while to get to know Alex, and for a reason that I have a lot of respect for. He figured that I had someone and he didn't want to waste his time if I was taken. He respected me and did not treat me like a lot of the other guys, he was understanding. But slowly I got to know him, and to see that he was a romantic just like me. Even though we both quit Duo, and I started a job at Bistro Basque in Milford in August, Alex and I stayed in touch, and would eventually take our relationship to the next level as being officially together. My holidays that year were fabulous, and Christmas was so nice with Alex by my side, and enjoying the holiday together happily. My father especially became fond of Alex that day, as he helped him cook Christmas dinner.

Love, jobs, those were just part of the fun of 2008, this was also a time for me to let loose with my girls. In January I decided to call up my friend Carla, we had both just gotten out of relationships, and in one visit, our level of friendship skyrocketed. We decided to take a trip to New York in early march and had one crazy night. Mandy, Carla, and I decided to make a trip to New York and see a flamenco show. We ate at Grand Central, we watched an amazingly sexy show, had lunch, bought rain boots, and met up with my friend Caitlin. Then the debauchery started. Caitlin and her friends wanted to go to a male strip show, after a lovely dinner at Carmines. The strip show was an experience, but once was more than enough, but it made for a few laughs. Now what happened after the show is why I call Carla "magic" because no matter where we are, she knows how to make connections, and whether it is making new friends, or getting something discounted, or free even, she knows what to say and what to do. We ended up going into a few bars, VIP, with one of the strippers, just because Carla was able to talk with him after the show. I don't know how she does it. After a few bars, we met up with Caitlin and finished the night with a house party. Overall it was one crazy day in New York, and a chance to express my freedom. The adventures didn't stop there, another trip to new york was in the works for my birthday, and a lovely dinner at DUO, with my family and my girls. Then in the summer, Kasia and I decided to explore the CT wine trail, and learn about wine, we almost made it to 14 of them, and in August, I went to Tampa with Carla. So many good times to remember with Carla.
In short , 2008 was my year, and in a meeting with the staff at my victim advocate job, we were asked how we feel about 2009 coming at 2008 ending. I said that this was an amazing year for me, filled with excitement and change, and I am very sad to see the year go, but looking forward to the opportunities of 2009.

2009- So far it has been a real roller coaster of ups and downs. I was really stressed at my job as a Victim Advocate, feeling like was sinking. It turned out to be a great learning experience, but I just couldn't seem to grasp my workload. In April, I was let go, but I fought until the end, constantly working to meet the demands, and many tests. But I will always remember my experience, it just wasn't the best fit for me.

The ups were good ones. One was meeting my friend Courtney through Bistro basque and having someone local to hang out with, and someone who is in so many ways, just like me. Enjoying day trips with Alex was also what kept me going. We did many fun things this year. We went wine tasting, to Lake Compounce and Six Flags, walked around Flushing Park while drinking bubble tea, a few days at the beach, especially for his birthday, dancing in Stamford, The Big E, Mystic aquarium, Mohegan Sun, Korean Barbecue, and so many sweet moments between the two of us. The best times are those loving moments. He just knows how to treat a woman, and he knows how to be romantic. I love how he thinks of me, just as much as i think of him. He just makes me so happy. We also spent a lot of Sunday nights dancing Duranguense, norteno, cumbia, and many others at clubs in Queens. I have seen some great live shows including Diana Reyes, Tucanes de Tijuana, and K-Paz de la Sierra. It is so cool to go to clubs where people actually dance, getting away from the daily grind. The whole place moves and is filled with the Mexican cry. I love being with Alex because it is always a cultural experience. His love is what I have been looking for.

Another great "up" this year was heading to Ireland with Mom and Mandy. Everyday was a tea party. High lights of the trip were plenty; learning to get used to the driving on the other side of the road, drinking Guinness at the Guinness Storehouse and being disappointed they did not make the shamrock at the top of the Guinness, visiting with my mother's friends and showing us some Irish hospitality, a comforting home cooked meal, good laughs, a tour of Sligo and even a little history about our family, draining the battery of the rental car and being so tired that we couldn't help but laugh, hearing" would you like to speak to himself" and "grand," driving up the mountain in Sligo and seeing where the Spanish Armada landed in Ireland, seeing remains of an old boat, enjoying the Perfect weather, driving around and seeing the landscape, being blown away up at the Cliffs of Moher, literally, seeing the original home of the Claddaugh ring, eating lamb and traditional Irish food, going out dancing in Longford and enjoying the Irish nightlife, Exploring Bunratty Castle and the Irish town, eating at Dirty Nelly's, Enjoying the bed and breakfasts, and most importantly, spending a week with my mother and sister, and feeling like three friends out on an adventure together. I will never forget that trip.

With all of the ups and downs, and thinking back to the feeling of traveling, I was looking for something that could change the roller coaster I was riding on. Thankfully I was able to keep my job at the restaurant and get extra help from the state, while I looked for another job, but finding one was a big problem. There just is nothing out there that interests me. I applied and applied, but nothing was coming up. So in August, I decided to take the bull by the horns, wanting to have a job that allowed me to travel, and looking closely at the requirements for jobs that I was interested in, but not qualified for, I decided to apply for a working abroad program. After months of planning and applying, I am officially headed to Peru. So for the next two months, that's where I will be writing my blog. So keep checking in, to see where my adventure takes me. And I couldn't have made this decision with out the support of my loved ones. I am so lucky, well blessed, to have supportive friends, family, and an especially supportive boyfriend in my life. There is nothing like having friends and family backing you in accomplishing your dreams. This is the first time in my life where I really feel comfortable leaving and doing it because I want to do it.

Buen Viaje!!!

Time of Reflection

2008-02-12T20:59:00.000-08:00

So I have not written in this blog in a long time...I wish I had more happy news. Right now is a time for thinking, reevaluating, and picking up pieces. I knew that this year would be different, and indeed it has. It hasn't been good, it hasn't been bad, it has just been a time to think. This year we are electing a new president, this year I have a job that is worth more than any paycheck could be worth, this year I am single, this year I am ambitious, this year I am losing weight and becoming healthier, for real this time, this year, I am not biting my nails, this year I am taking the bull by the horns and taking on tasks that may be scary but I know I can do, this year I am headed into unchartered territory...

The start of the year was rocky and very sad. I look back at all the things I have written and for the first time, since the start of this online blog, I don't have Tony. Tony and I were having some hard times and in the beginning of the year, after 2 and a half years, we broke up. I haven't stopped thinking since. I look back at all the wonderful things that I wrote and wish I could relive them. There were so many beautiful moments, so many special moments, that it makes me sad to see where we are. I try to be strong, but in the inside I am screaming.

I know in my heart that things will work out one way or another, but the pain in the meantime is overwhelming. Thanks be to God that he blessed me with such amazing friends, true friends, and a supportive loving family. I have never really noticed how much I really truly appreciate their presence in my life until now. It is so intense the feeling that my friends are not just friends, they all have a piece of my soul within them, and I have a piece of their souls in me. Not many people know what that feels like, and I feel so blessed that I have that in my life...

I have also been pondering what I want to get accomplished in the near and not so near future:

I want to learn a martial art: maybe karate or jiu jitsu

I want to backpack through Europe

I hope to live in Mexico for a bit, whether it is for a summer or a year, I feel that is something I would appreciate.

I want to be a bartender, and I want to learn more about wine maybe go to go to a tasting or two.

I need to paint more...

I want to take a trip to Florida with my dear friend Kasia, and have a true "girls weekend away"

I want to learn flamenco in NYC: I need to find time but I want to be a part of the passion that flamenco gives to its participants.

Jobs: I am thinking of maybe being a police officer, flight attendant, or go back to school for a bit to work on my masters to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker...but still exploring my options. All I know is I want to serve others and give my love to those that I help.

I want to take singing lessons, and know what it feels like to sing the right way.

I want to build my dream home: Complete with a library with cozy chairs, a big desk in a home office, big fireplaces everywhere, hacienda type master bedroom, with big jaccuzzi and double sink, A walk in closet so I can put all of my girlie stuff in it and an awesome old vanity, an awesome bar, maybe a movie theatre, niches, a studio for all my art, and a kichen that I can have a lot of space to cook in. It will be cozy, unique and have lots of character.

I want to have a family, especially a little girl and give her the name Annabelle. I may even want to adopt...

Hopes and dreams...its what helps you through...that is the theme of this year.

So here is a toast, I know it is about a month late, but here is a toast to a year of hope, that things will get better and that we will grow together.

Life Lessons from the Bible

2007-12-05T09:34:00.000-08:00

As I sat in church for my brother's confirmation, the homily struck me. The story was about a lamplighter and their job. A man was watching the lamplighter light the streetlights one by one. With each passing ignition, the lamplighter created a trail of light, marking where he had been and the lamps that he lit. However, he could not see the face of the lamplighter because he was only out at night, when all others were inside and the light of day could not specify the face of the lamp lighter.

The moral of the story was that we all are lamp lighters. We light up the darkness, the sadness in life, with the things that we do for others. Even though we may not get recognition, we have left an impression on everyone that we cross paths with. We all need to live life with the idea that our actions impact the lives of others.

I thought of that to be so profound. Just amazing to think that you can make the difference in someone's life, by one small deed.

Another story that I found to be so profoud, was the message of Easter. The priest always talks about the idea that we all have Good Fridays in our lives, but we have to always remember that there will always be an Easter to follow. We may have hard times in our lives, but out of hardships comes happiness. There is such comfort in that. I know that I have had some hard times, but I always have faith that there will be happiness. I thank God for all of the lessons that he gives me. He is always watching, never giving us anything he knows that we cannot handle, and when we do have hard times, we know that he is with us...

Below the Mark

2007-03-07T10:42:00.000-08:00

Ever feel like you are not good enough?

Thats how I'ven been feeling lately...Like a disillusionment of sorts.
Don't really know what more to say but thats life I guess...

New Year, New Blog

2007-01-08T10:02:00.000-08:00

I found this one as a draft, it was from last year. Seeing that I never published it, I think it is time with 2008 just around the corner...where does the time go? Without further ado, here it goes...

I has been a while since I updated. So much to talk about. First is the resolutions that I have for this year. One is to drop my nail-biting habit. Another is instead of dieting like everyone else, I decided that I was going to limit my processed food intake. Natural food is so much better for you. And if i keep active, which is my third resolution, then I can have a heathier year. I am headed into my last semester as a college student and just put in my application for Teach for America, so we will see where that goes. If not then I have some other options to look at. Another resolution, or ambition might be a better way to explain it, is to learn Italian. I am close to being fluent in Spanish so I decided to add another romance langauge to my repertoire.

The Holidays were amazing. The end of the semester was rough and long, but I survived and came out with some really good marks. Band banquet was the best I have attended. The music was perfect and summed up all of my years in band. Traditions went on and I was running on pure adrenaline. I wore a red dress, which I am sure is a big surprise to everyone, but I felt like a movie star. We got some amazing pictures and I couldn't have been prouder of my sister. She and Eddie and Tim, did an amazing job with the banquet. The one thing that made me a bit sad was the slideshow becuase it brought to reality that this was my last year in the UCMB. It was a good run and I couldn't have imagined that the band would have given me the many opportunities that it did. One of those things that make life enjoyable and real. Christmas eve and christmas was wonderful. Tony and i had a night together on thursday before christmas and he suprised me with an hour and a half massage for Christmas. He is just so good to me it is unbelievable. We went to his house after and watched Click, enjoying each other's company.on christmas eve I made dinner, cookies, wrapped gifts, and went to the midnight mass with my family. It was hard to sleep that night, I was really restless, maybe it was because I had the christmas music station on next to my bed, but it got me into the holiday mood and it made me feel like a kid again. Christmas morning was wonderful and I jumped on the bandwagon as I opened up my ipod. But man is it great. For a girl that is HORRIBLE at not scratching her cd's, this makes my life so much less stressful. And I have a ton of music at my fingertips...

Lets see what the holiday season has instore for 2007...

My life...updated

2006-10-01T17:24:00.000-07:00

So it has been a long time since my last post. Heres a rundown of what I have been up to since my last post:

Finals went well, I ended up with four A's and one B. Not too shabby and my gpa went up:)

I went on a few trips:
One was Maine with Tony to see Carey and the boys. Those little ones are such a joy even though poor little jack was sick. Tommy turned one and we went up there for the party.
Another was to New York a few times. One was to see Robbie Gil's release party. That was such a good time. We stayed out so late and got pizza at 4 in the morning. And even Mama and Papa Leone came out. A time to remember. Another was to see a show that Ruark was in called "THe Florentine." We stayed out late that night too, but it was a good time. We also went to New Jersey for a Barbeque and was a nice little getaway for Tony and I.

Then there was the dance recital. I was mad because I knew the dance and had a good time going to rehearsals but while we were on the Stage, someone forgot their spot and get in my way and I screwed up half the dance because of it. Oh well, it was good to perform on the Stage again.

Then there were the Naughty Jungle of Love shows. Two at the Oasis, and one at the Brickyard. That was a good night indeed including dancing with Waineagail, dancing around a sleeping fan and making obscene gestures with Tony's friend Andrea, And who can forget the end of the night with a song for a bachelorette party. At that show and as well as the last show ever at the Oasis, I had "Antique" requested to me. How cool is that? Those shows were a good time, except for the creepy guy at the oasis that licked his hand and touched my thigh...who does that??!! honestly...

Then of course there were the Big S softball games and to top off the season, The team ended up in the Championship game, finishing the season in second place. Way to go boys!

Then there was Spain. Aside from the travel Woes, it was amazing. I have so many stories, but I will make a future post about that one soon...

Tony and I also attended a Wedding. That weekend was sweet and included another trip to New York to see Arturo Sandoval and a showing of "Urinetown". I had some sweet quality time with Tony and it was so nice after being away from him for a month.

Then school started. Preseason came and went, so far we have had 3 football games and already have no chance for a bowl game, work has been going well and the house is a good time. I love my room and being able to make my own food. I dyed my hair to almost black and got it cut. I am able to go to my house in south windsor frequently and had lunch with Grandpa the other day.

Last week we also found out that Grandma Leone passed away. She was such a sweet woman and I was blessed to have the chance to know her. And as sad as the occasion was, the Leone Family had the chance to be together. I absolutely love this Family. I not only have one amazing family, but two. I am Lucky:)

So Tony and I just passed our 1 year 4month anniversary and still going strong. I am so lucky and blessed to have him in my life. He has been so supportive and loving and I couldn't have dreamt up a better man than Anthony. He truly makes me happy. Thank you babe for everything that you do...

Well thats it for now. I hope to have the Spain post up soon!

Gonna Be Famous Someday

2006-05-26T18:44:00.000-07:00

I had the absoulte pleasure of seeing two amazing bands play live. Robbie Gil and his band as well as the Josh Dion Band were just amazing. My body kept moving and my mouth open at the sheer . These two bands really know how to work a crowd. I am absoultely blown away by the talent that these two bands offer and I know that someday they will be famous. Wow.

Thursday was also a beautiful milestone...That was the day that marks Tony and I beeing together for a year. I couldn't be happier. Thank you babe;) Here's a hope for many more to come...

According to the government, I am officially an adult...

2006-05-01T21:54:00.000-07:00

So I had the MOST AMAZING 21st Birthday ever. I spent it with the best people and I am glad I waited till I was 21 to drink.

Thursday: So it all started on April 27th. I finished my research paper in ample time. So I took my time getting ready. It so nice not having to rush. Went to class, had a short meeting for a presentation, and had a VERY long section leader meeting. But in the middle of it, I got a phone call from Tony's house. I listened to the voicemail and was lucky enough to have JACK sing "Happy birthday" to me and then tell me he loved me:) My sister picked me up and then it was off to Red Rock for my birthday. People came in and out and it was a good time. I did a red headed slut with Tony, Joe, and Kelly. And the bartender made me a drink. Don't really know what it was but it tasted like sherbert. Not too bad for a thursday night. Tony drove me back to my room and I found a card on my bed. Tony's parents sent me a card. It was really sweet and definately made it a great night:) Even if I stayed up late helping Mandy with a project.

Friday: School happened as usual. Had a presentation in class and then left spanish early so I could go to work. I didnt get rid of my driving shift, but I did get to leave early so I could go to the KKPsi/TBS banquet. The night would have been perfect if it wasn't for the undeserved 131 dollar "present" (in form of a parking ticket) that was on my car when I came down from changing as fast as I could. Uconn Nazis. Anyways, the banquet was a good time. Here were the highlights: prime rib, eddie's desert, the Zenny's Relaxer, Teaching Eric Cotton Eye joe, seeing girls dance all around Eric:), crazy dancing with Karrie, sketchy Djs, Mandy and Tony's Tango, dancing with Tony, taking silly pictures with my sis, Tony picking up my sister from her Dorm( he's such a good guy:), singing "piano man" and alma mater...
The best part of the night was when I went back to my room and Tony tells me he has to go to his car to get a hanger or something...I am oblivious, so I go up to my room and Tony comes in a bit later and he has a red package in his hand. So he told me to come over and he has me open it. It was a red camera bag. Then he gave me another package...it was a camera. I was Thrilled:) After I opened the camera, I could not stop smiling. It was perfect:) Then to top it off, tony brought some Leone wine with him and we talked for a while and took some pictures with the new camera. Definately still can picture it in my mind...

saturday: So this was an amazing day too. First Tony and I headed out to coventry to see liz's apartment and to have lunch with Liz and Maggie. We went to a small bagel shop and talked about going to Italy next spring break to visit Maggie. Then we went to Tony's house for a bit to see his nephews, pick up some clothes and play with the bunnies. Beth was there too so I got to chat with her for a bit. Then it was off to my house to have dinner. We had potroast and spaghetti(my favorite) with Ian and my family. I had a white cake with homemade icing compliments of my dad:) and a huge red candle that my mom joked about looking really phallic lol. We had a lot of good laughs and funny pictures. Ian got me a shot glass to hang from my neck and a pin that gave me several different drink choices. I was told I had to wear one of them out that night...I decided the shot glass was the less embarrasing of the two. But hey, you only live once and only have one 21st birthday, so I should live it up. On the way into hartford Ian told me that by the end of the night I would be dancing on top of the bar. The funny thing is...he was right. We'll get to that story a little later. First, we met up with my good friendKathy and her Boyfriend and Kathy finally got to meet Tony at the Pour House. The bouncer at the door wished me a happy birthday and after meeting kathy at the bar, I did my first shot, kamikazee, with Tony and Ian. After the shot, Tony handed me a drink and told me that it was from my dad. I was like "my DAD? are you serious? lol"It was a whisky sour and my dad had been talking about it earlier so Tony decided to get it for me since he was talking about how good they were, and actually my mom was talking about kamikazees so my parents had a small influence which is really funny seeing that my family really doesnt drink all that much and I guess it is just weird to talk about drinks with mom and dad. So that added a very memorable moment to my night. Next it was off to the Brickyard next door. We had met one of the bartenders earlier that day so we went to the bar and did a sicilian kiss on the house because it was my birthday and Tony loves his italian background so that added an element of Tony to the night:). I had a grateful dead after to take with me while we roamed around. We went to the second tier where the dancefloor was really empty, it filled later but it was weird to see it so dead, it was early in the night so we didn't worry too much. We decided to go to the top floor because there was live music up there. Tony ran into someone he knew of course...he is the most amazing networker its crazy. We stayed in the coner of the room at the end of the bar. At one point I felt myself get really tipsy. I was like "ok... I am gonna stand against the wall now" and everyone laughed at me, especially Ian because he had never seen me like that before and was having a good time. He was happy to be there with me. Thats what makes him an amazing friend. The bartenders were mad cool too because they had bottles that they lit the corks on fire and juggled them with eachother. It was bad ass. A funny part was kathy and I going to the bathroom and falling a bit. We walked into the restrooms and we realized there were no doors so we could see the guys going to the bathroom. Kathy and I were giggling the entire time. After I finished my drink we headed down to the dance floor. I did Salsa with Ian and that was awesome. Tony and I danced close. I LOVE the fact that he will dance with me:) We took a break and went down to the bar to get some water and we ended up doing another shot of soco and lime. Towards the end of the night, we were back up at the dance floor and they were giving free shots to women who would dance on the catwalk that ran against the wall and behind the small bar on the dancefloor. So I took it and went up there. So Ian was right, I did end up dancing on the bar that night:) I glanced at Tony and Ian watch me dance. I was shaking it all over the place and I am going to be a bit narcissistic and say that I danced the best up there. Some guy came over to me and was dancing trying to get me to come down and dance with him. I turned down the offer and said I had a boyfriend. But I had more than just Tony and Ian watching. Kinda amusing. After I got the shot, I went over to Tony and told him at the end of the night, he is the one I go home with:) We got home and told mom all of the stories because she was still up. It was such a good night...

sunday: This was the day...the day that I had no idea what Tony had planned. My sister was involved, everyone knew but me. I got hints like " what a better way to top it all off than Sunday"... and when I ask what was happening it was the classic..."I have no idea what you are talking about." I was even like , " so I heard you called my sister the other day"...i get " dirty rumors" for an answer. I didnt know until this day that I would be attending my very first Yankees Game at YANKEE STADIUM!! We woke up really early after the late night at the club. I got up and showered and then it was off to Tony's house. He took a while to get things together. I was suspicious the entire time, trying to figure out where we were going. I saw him go out to his jeep with a strange bag. Finally it was off to our destination. One of the places that I guessed we might be going to was New York because he said where we were going was closer to his house than mine. So we got closer and I realized where we were, at that time he gave me the bag and I pulled out my yankees shirt and hat. Now it all made sense, the secrecy with my sis, the I have to go to the bathroom, where is your yankee's shirt, I want to wear it, and "where are your hats? I want to see if it fits now that I have less hair" real smooth tony;) I was still oblivious...So we got there and parked the car. We met up with his equalivalent to my Kathy, Ben, and Ben's dad. We sat about 7 rows from the top of the stadium. I was amused by the groundskeepers fixing up the field and amazed by the size of the stadium and that I was actually there. I used my new camera for lots of cool pictures and started my obsession with reflection pictures. We got italian sausage, I tried Bud light(gross), pepsi, and new york pretzels. Nothing like New York food. The family in front of us had the hookup, the parents must have spent 500 dollars at that one game just on food for the six kids. Crazy. The best part about the day was the fact that the Yankees won the game:) After the game finished we went across the street to get a beer and hang out before we split. We tried to get in one place but it was packed so we found this smaller place with a quiet back room. So we ordered 4 beers, but the cans were HUGE! It definately made for a good picture though. The drive home wasnt too bad. I went back to Tony's and we made a bit of dinner and went out for ice cream to visit his friend Valerie. I got cake BATTER ice cream to add on to the baseball theme of the day. Tony outdid himself... I couldn't have created in my mind a better boyfriend and relationship than the one I have with Tony...Thank you babe for being so good to me:)

Monday: Back to reality and final exams week. But my night was good. Very simple...I had my first drink on my own. Bidwell tavern white russian with baileys:)

So thats it, that was my 21st birthday. Defiantely one to remeber. I was with my favorite people, doing my favorite things...I couldnt have asked for a better birthday:)

Poem of Frustration

2006-04-05T21:59:00.000-07:00

Drama...
no more,
please I plead,
no more...

This is one of those nights where if I smoked,
There would be a cigarette in my hand,
Smoking ouside at one in the morning,
And the fact that it is cold,
doesn't even phase my body.

My eyes are weary,
I'm tired,
very tired.

Mom told me not to throw stones at glass houses,
did yours?
think about your past before you alter someone's future,
and if it goes wrong,
remember you ignited the fire.

Open your eyes,
make yourself aware of what you say is obvious to them,
because right now you are the one who is oblivious...

I am not perfect,
I am no gift to anything.
Be human, think once in a while.
You say " step outside your box,"
while you stand inside your own.

Practice what you preach,
remember where you came from.
Respect comes to those who give respect...

No Drama...
No more,
Please I plead,
No more...

On another note:
In these times of disagreement...you will find those who you share commonalities with and realize you are not so different from each other like you may have thought....I'll miss you when you are gone...you know who you are ...

I couldn't be prouder...

2006-03-26T06:42:00.000-08:00

So last night was my brother's play...AMAZING. I was in absolute awe of my little brother. He was just sensational on that stage...He played Gaston in Beauty and the Beast and it was really hard at times to imagine that he was only 13 years. He was just perfect. Mandy and I couldn't stop looking at each other because we were just so proud of him. His costume was very well done, props to mom, he definately looked the part and unlike the beast, he was very animated and even got mean at times, like he should. I was beyond impressed. There were a few points where he was talking and it reminded me of when he was little; When dad would follow Joey around with the video camera and tape him talking in a stream of consciousness...except this time he has a lower voice. Aww...my joey. You are just Fantastic.

Well let's backtrack to Friday real quick...I had a pretty productive day and was very relieved to have the weekend after a really tough week. I had a group presentation in the morning, which I hope went well. Then I had a spanish quiz and was straight off to work right after. I was driving a special which was awesome because I got to drive the bus off campus and do homework while I waited for the team to finish practice. It was great. Then I went to the gym and came back to take a shower before heading down to Southington to watch the basketball game at Tony's. I was actually kinda into the game...not as much as my crazy Tony though. He was jumping around. Man was that a frustrating game...and I am not all that into sports. I'm trying though...We won in overtime but it was such a close game. We won on luck I think. Lets hope they kick it into high gear because tougher games loom ahead and if they are not more organized and careful, they aren't gonna make it to the Final 4. So we'll see where that goes.

The next morning I headed back home for a bit to help mom clean the house. She had a bad migrane the night before and wasn't able to do much so I told her I would help. And it was nice to be home for a bit. Makes you miss house chores a bit...But I headed back to campus for a bit and as soon as everyone was ready to go we headed home. It was so great to have a full house. We haven't had the family together in a long time and it was good to see cousins and grandparents, aunts, and uncles and good friends. I was one lucky girl...I had four of my favorite guys there. My cousin, lonnie, my best friend Ian, and my sweetheart Tony, all there together, ready to watch my little bro:). They got along really well and we made plans to go out for my birthday in April. I am looking forward to that, but definately not trying to rush. So we had some great food, I watched my mom get my brother ready for the show and just couldn't get over how awesome he looked...When we headed out to the show, Tony wanted some coffee so we stopped at Dunkin Donuts and while I was driving I saw police lights behind me...I didn't really pay attention to how fast I was driving so needless to say I got uneasy, so I pulled to the side and saw that he was going too fast to stop behind me and realized he had another goal. So as we turn onto dart hill road, I see him pull into one of the roads and block it off...an ambulance was there too...It was only until we got onto rt. 83 where we realized there was a fire. I have never seen one quite like it. All four of us were shocked...hoping that the people there were ok. The smoke was seen for miles , it was crazy. We finally got to the school and were quickly impressed by the students. At some points, we forgot that it was a middle school play. During intermission, the characters came out for pictures and my brother had girls hanging all over him, he stayed in character, and it was just too funny. I got a few good ones of him with girls all around. The death scene was great and there are stairs that Gaston falls down when he dies and It was funny because in the way that the light was shining, while gaston was sliding down the stairs, all you could see were his boots. Its hard to explain it but it was funny. We took so many pictures and my brother was even asked for autographs. We were so proud. On the way home, Tony, Ian, Lonnie and I stopped at walgreens to pick up a few things. We had a few laughs at the condom shelf and out of curiosity went to see what had been in that blazing inferno. It was a garage that had gone up in flames and The houses next to it seems to not have too much damage , thank goodness, because those houses are close, not to mention there are a lot of trees around the area. I just hope that anyone involved ended up being ok. So after that we went home for some dessert. I made my rounds talking to Granny, Grandpa, Aunt Doreen, Mom, my little bro when he came back from the cast party. I joked around with my 5 year old cousin. He kept running away from me and I joked with him that running away from pretty girls now is not going to help him in the future...he still ran away from me. Oh well. When my cousins, aunts and uncles left, I went downstairs and hung out with my sis, some of the PMs, Tony, Lonnie, and Ian. W e talked, danced a bit of salsa, and just had a good time relaxing. It was finally about 130 when we left and headed back to uconn, but it was worth it. It was nice to have a full house of people and to just relax at home for a bit.

It was just what I needed after a hard week.

I can't say it enough...I was so impressed and so proud. I love my Family.

Fulfilling a Dream

2006-03-11T10:15:00.000-08:00

So I got this letter in the mail from the University of Rhode Island...It told me that it was pleased to tell me that I had been accepted into their Study Abroad Program in SALAMANCA, SPAIN!!!

Pleased to tell me...how about ECSTATIC to tell me!

I did it... I am going to Spain. I get to fulfill a dream that I have had since middle school.

I got my car back and it was less money than expected...
I got a happy write-up at work for washing 5 Buses in 4 hours...most people only get to two a day...
Cleaned out all of the cars...making mom really happy
Get to see my Tony tonight and hang out for a bit...I miss my man...

Applications for Dispatcher are open so that is the next thing to see how it works out...

Voy a Espana...

Rough week

2006-03-02T16:03:00.000-08:00

Good news: after an absolutely annoying and rough week, snow cancelled my last midterm, pushing it to when I return from break, and work closed early hence cancelling my yellow shift of 3.5 painful hours. I love my job...just yellow is not my favorite line to drive. Anyways, that gave me time to finish with my applications for studying abroad. I also made it to the gym today...

...that being said...

Bad news: snow=slippery conditions=not good driving weather+ lightweight car=crashing into a curb=busted tire+knocked off alignment = money

yeah perfect way to put a damper on your day. At least my car will be ready tomorrow.

I have so much work to do over break. I want to get ahead as well so that means a lot of reading for me. Maybe I will actually do it this time and not be a loser haha.

I'll update again over break and fill everyone in(whoever cares about my blog anyway) as to what I have been doing this semester.

pAEAce out for now...

Pasta, lancer, and unexpected beer pong champs

2006-01-29T12:12:00.000-08:00

What a histerical night...here are the highlights and quotes of the night:

creepy faces of snookie and coffill in the windows and kosta pulling down the shades on them
matt opening the window and his hand coming through it and scaring the crap out of Mandy P. "kate, Your boyfriend is creepy..."
"who brought this kid?"
my obsession with garlic bread "This is one of the pieces from my first plate...I swear!;)"
hiding and eating cookies in the corner with coffill cause we weren't supposed to eat them at the time..."we are like vultures."
handshake with matt... mhmm mhmm, making out making out, stop it stop it, NO!
cutthroat game of battle of the sexes
"Question: What does Virginia Woolf say every woman needs? Snookie: a bigger kitchen sink"
looking into the light to and asking Jules to see if my eyes dialated properly cause I was "wasted" more like high on life thank you!
"she's wasted!" as I was laughing uncontrollaby
Paul and my bad rendition of the song from Rent..."how we gonna pay? with some sex!"
can you put a deposit on oral sex? Is that cruel? do you have to do a full payment?
our sociological discussion on "riding the broomstick"
"don't be selfish!"
"wanna talk about penis?"
(reference to the huge disco bead neacklace) "anal beads...annabelle knows what they are"...haha no, not really
brian's crazy pillow hat and jumping to the ceiling
to my sis mandy "your boyfriend used me...i mean used you to use me to..."then I leave room cause I can't stop laughing so then I come back in and attempt again.
awkward brian dance
SIGGI! (cody yells and room quiets)
"Gosh Matt...stop bumping into me...;)"
me being called sketchy for the first time ever:P
Matt making me stay in Sarahs room cause I was "wasted"

Then it was a successful day on Saturday. We started off the day going antique shopping with mom. Its always a good time with mom when we look at antiques because it reminds me of our trips to long island to see grandma when she was alive and go garage sale-ing, looking for an amazing bargain. Mom is making a tea cup chandelier and our find of the day was several different colored clear tea cups and saucers. Then it was off to do car shopping. We went to a few dealerships, the first was very helpful and the next two didn't seem to care or want to make a deal, but we finally ended up at Morande Ford the place where grandpa got his car and our focus that recently was totaled and hence brought us back. We originally looked at two cougars the same type, sporty but a standard. One was characol and the other was green. so it seemed perfect but mom and dad didnt want to worry about us so they would rather have gotten an automatic. So moral of the story, we ended up with automatics and my sister and I are so happy with it. She got a pontiac which she said that she really liked previously in the day, and I was interested in a lancer and low and behold, those are the cars that we got. It was fate. Grandma was watching over us. The both of us are sooo happy with our cars... Our family was going to go out to dinner but Mom ended up getting a really bad headache and the day was really long for her. So I decided to make dinner instead. I made steamed stringbeans and carrots, little steaks with a little marinade and some wild rice. It was nice to have real food again...

Tony came and picked me up. We went up to campus and waited to go over to da shelta for a get together by getting a little coffee at starbucks. I told him about this crazy story that I read about for my sociology class about all these different world views on sexuality and gender. As i was telling him the story, Tony started laughing all of a sudden so I turn around to see what he was laughing at and who do I see but matt girosky pretending to pick his nose. Somehow he found us and so he came in, but i couldn't finish any of my sentences without being interrupted. Oh well. After that we headed over to da shelta for a good time and let me tell you...I had a blast. I told Tony I was interested in playing beer pong as long as he drank for me. So we put our names down to play, talked a little , showed Cody my new car and waited for some more people to show. Mandy, Matt and Karrie showed up and that made me happy:) So when we were up for beer pong, our first game was against Cody and Matty B, I sunk a lot of balls and Tony won the game. For the second game we played Matt and Timmy. We won that one too and that time I sunk the last ball. We just didn't care if we won or not. The third game was against Kelly and Laura and we won that one too. Tony was happy that I was interested and we made a good team:) No one expected me to be good so I was proud of myself. Our last game was against Kate and Girosky and it was a really close game. Both teams had 2 cups left and went back and forth until finally kate sunk one. Matt sunk the last one, but we had an amazing run. Everyone after was disappointed because they wanted to play us, especially snookie so It was really funny:) The fun didn't end there because after that, my sass came out and killed Kelly as I interrogated matt girosky about his life...$100 jersey, workout schedule and agenda, obsessive away messager, 65in workout ball,3.5678674242223 I don't know my Body's limits!, complicated wordings, no use of the words "things and stuff..." Overall it was good night...

Today we went to Friendly's for lunch and ran into a few people. Its crazy that Tony runs into someone he knows EVERYWHERE. Haha I am dating a popular man:) In all seriousness though, I am one lucky girl to have him in my life. This week was a little rough but we had a lot of bonding time this weekend and I am genuinely happy with him. Absolutely 100 % adorable;) 8 months and it only gets better...

Rain

2006-01-25T19:40:00.000-08:00

I was just thinking of the snow falling on the ground, and how much I wish it was a warm spring shower...how I just want the rain to gently fall on me and just let it wash away everything that may be bothering me... I just want to concentrate on feeling the rain against my skin and the rain drops rolling down my face...I want to dance in all of the puddles and not stop until every part of me has felt the rain....

grrr....

2006-01-25T12:40:00.000-08:00

So since the car that my sister and I used to have was totalled, my parents decided to get us both our own cars since I will be out of college soon and both of us will end up needing cars. They have also decided to lease the cars so that when we start paying for the cars on our own, we can trade them in for something else if we want. So everytime though when the subject is brought up...there is some argument. My parents are looking for the best deal, and my mom and I got in a small argument that shouldn't have happened and my sister usually has some sort of reason why she doesnt like one of the ideas and I am quite frustrated. We are going car shopping on saturday and my goal is to seal the deal and get a car. Thats it. One day and its done. Thats what I want so it is one less thing to deal with. I have housing to figure out for next year, I have to make sure I get the study abroad programsolidified so I can study in Spain over the summer and apply for scholarships, and having to get a car is something I definately want to do soon so it isn't on my mind anymore. This kinda stuff is what makes me uneasy and nervous and being nervous is the last emotion I want to have right now...

Well this made me feel better. Having this blog is such a blessing....

On a lighter note, I got a raise at work. I get paid really well already and this extra 25cents per hour is definalty sweet. Off to get some homework done so that I can drive and feel like I have accomplished something today.

mmm...tastes like free

2006-01-22T20:33:00.000-08:00

That was definately the theme of the weekend. After a very productive week with work, school, meeting up with friends that I hadn't seen over break, and even getting in 3 solid workouts into my busy schedule, I was ready to have a little fun. So here I am sunday night in a very reflective state because everything about this weekend makes me smile. So friday I had quite a busy day with 3 classes, laundry, work and finally a little time to myself before heading out to go bowling with my bros. Rush events are this week and the next so we all had a fun time being silly. Sam and I did some bowling stunts like throw the ball down the lane by rolling it under our legs and then facing backwards. I got one strike the entire night because the balls were horrible...but it was fun nonetheless...the best part about my strike was that it was the end result of a stunt. I pushed the ball while sliding onto my stomach and watched the ball go all the way down the lane and end up knocking down all the pins. Then Mike proceeded to grab my feet and pull me backwards away from the lane...It was an amazing time:) Tony came to join us al little later. I bowled a game for him while we waited. It was great to get out and have a few laughs and good times with some of my favorite people. After that it was a crazy ride back to campus in Presto full of "lets torture Karrie time. " Tony and I went to Red Rock and talked over some tea and a drink followed by even more quality time with my sweetheart. The next morning it was off to the gym. Tony magically got in and I went running on the eliptical while he and matt played racquetball. My sis joined us too and we ended up teaching the boys our crunch workout. That was probably the best part:) We stopped off at my house for a bit to visit and pick up some pictures from new years. That was the only disappointing part of the day because most of the pictures did not come out... Next it was dinner at Margaritas. Timmer and Matt joined us . We got about half of our dinner free because I had a gift certificate and enjoyed some funny stories, good laughs, margaritas, a pina colada, different types of mexican food and all in amazing company. The day only got better...We stopped over at friendlys to find Chris Hauser working there and ended up with free ice cream...except for matt. Its true that food does taste better when it is free tho. We got free cups too for people to play some pong. By the time we got to da shelta to hang out and watch the game, I was so stuffed from everything that we ate, but it was so worth it... We watched some Uconn b-ball action, danced, laughed, and just enjoyed the night hanging out. By the time we got back to my dorm, we were both exhausted and fell asleep within minutes. Which brings me to today. Tony and I headed up to putnam to visit Timmer and to hang out. We watched some football, ate pizza, and I tried the infamous Dad's rootbeer which was definately the best rootbeer I have ever had. The day finished off with a quick meeting and a relaxing mass at St. Thomas. I made this really cool artwork for my wall. This room is so amazingly comfortable now...I dont feel like I am in a jail cell anymore....

So That was my crazy weekend. If you want a funnier version of our dinner/ dessert story visit Matt's version...

And to my Tony...Thank you;) you know the rest...

Goodnight! Here's to another productive week!

are you ready to Jump?

2006-01-18T07:29:00.000-08:00

Yep, it is already the spring semester, but I am quite proud of myself because i am starting off really well... Moving in wasn't so bad. I am much more organized this semester. I sent a bunch of stuff home that I really didnt need. And my first day of the semester was really successful. I got up at about 9am, then after straightening up and checking e-mail, I headed out to the gym. I did some running and a bunch of crunches. I am feeling it today boy. Then I walked back to shower and take my sweet time. After that it was a little lunch and then heading over to my two classes of the day. They weren't that bad. I got a little homework, but I got my sociology reading done and most of my spanish. So I have some left for today but a least I kept myself motivated. After class i took a little nap in my room, I was quite comfortable. I had a headache and I had a closing shift last night on blueline so I had to feel better for that. It was quite the shift too. Two people visited me and kept me entertained. The little messages from Tony definately helped the day go by happily...my beast;)

In other news, I might be getting my own car! I am excited. Our focus was totalled over break so we got a bunch of money back from the insurance and my parents were thinking of splitting it so my sis and I can get our own cars. Thats pretty exciting:)

I am also thinking of getting madonna's new cd...confessions on a dancefloor. She always comes out with some hot music with awesome beats. Its feel good music...

Thats it for now I think...I am gonna keep it up. I feel so much happier when I get things accomplished. Now it is lunch time with my dear friend Justin...

Yes, I'm ready to Jump....lifes gonna drop you down like the limbs on a tree
It sways, and it swings and it bends untill it makes you see...

I just had to smile...

2006-01-14T22:45:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to say that my Tony is the best. This has been a tough week with both of us being sick and me being anxious but tonight we got to have some time together and It made not only my day but my week and the week ahead. He really is so good to me and I couldn't be luckier...I cherish the time we have together and no matter what...our relationship is worth it all and we'll get through whatever we are faced with...Thank you mi querido;)

Sometimes I stop to think about how I miss you being here...

2006-01-13T08:02:00.000-08:00

So I was good today and I got up at a decent hour. This morning it was 10am. I have decided that today will be a good day. I am sick of being upset with things. So I am just gonna try to smile today and make the most of my last few days at home before heading back for round 2 of junior year. Plus I am sick...awesome...I mean I would have a cold anyday because there are things far worse. So I am trying to do the right thing and eat healthy. As we speak I am eating a grapefruit. Good stuff...It reminds me of my granny because whenever we visit her breakfast is always grapefruit and cream of wheat with farina. I need to visit her soon. She is 90 years old and still one of the most amazing strong women that I know. And I also was given her name Grace as my middle name so I have a bit of her as a part of who I am...This is a picture of her and my Grandpa(rest in peace) at their wedding. I was lucky to have such amazing role models in my life. Grandpa was an artist and worked for an advertising agency. When he was alive he used to love it when we wanted to draw for them. He would gladly go downstairs and get out all of his colored pencils, pens, paper, tracing paper, all of his art supplies just so we could make them art work. They always encouraged us to be creative and always were so impressed by our work. It made me feel good and I do owe a bit of my creativity to them because they were always interested in our projects. My granny to this day still has our artwork from years ago on her refrigerator, all discolored with age....

Wow that brought back amazing memories...I think about my grandpa and grandma sometimes, who both past awayand I really start to miss them. I mean we go about our busy lives, doing whatever we do and sometimes we don't have time to think about those that have gone and really miss all that they stood for and how they have influenced our lives. I was thinking of my grandma, Annabelle, when I was listening to Robbie Gil. There is a song about his grandpa and I guess one time when he was performing it, he couldn't stop crying. So it got me thinking about my grandmother and how I miss her...I remember saying a few words at her funeral. I talked about how I am so lucky to be blessed with the name of My Grandma and My mother. I just hope I can live up to the strong standard that these women have set. My dad, as a physician has never seen anyone fight so hard to stay alive. She had three major surgeries and still battled in a very frail state. I hope that I have inhertited some of that strength...and sometimes I wish I had more strength. Its amazing how much a name can mean...