Apparently when the temperature drops a few degrees in Hawaii EVERYONE comes down with some type of flu/cold/virus/whatever. Yes, I have heard of the flu season, but I've never seen it happen so fast to everyone around me.
All of Richard's family has been sick this week. One of my only two female friends is also not feeling well. The kids I babysit are all three sick this week (as well as their grandparents)... and somehow I still don't show any true signs of catching something.
Today I feel a little achy and my head and stomach feel somewhat off... but I'm fairly positive that it's just in my head.
The last five days I have woken up and thought "wow, I'm seriously still not sick?". Don't get me wrong, I really really don't care to catch anything right now and would be thrilled if it passed right by me, but it seems incredibly strange considering the odds. Which no, I don't really know what the odds are, but I'm positive they are against me.
This reminds me of last year when every staff member in our office came down with this awful flu/cold except for me. I was literally one of five who didn't catch it in a week time span... But then like three weeks later I seemed to experience the same thing.
My theory: I have a delayed immune system. Instead of just giving me something and having me go through it first, I have to watch everyone else feel like crap while I anticipate my downfall. Not cool.
Of course it's not really a big deal if I get sick, but I refuse to think I'm in the clear because as soon as I do... bam... it'll hit. It's like my body is messing with my mind. Maybe if I call it's bluff it'll miss me this year.
One can only hope.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Monday, December 6, 2010
A Parents' Guide For Hiring a Nanny: What NOT to do
Okay, let me preface this entry by saying that I'm aware that I am not a parent and that I can't claim to understand the experience or that relationship in the way an actual parent is able to. I'm not claiming to know everything in the realm of childcare, but as a nanny of too many years to count (or admit), I'd like to address this topic.
I am currently enrolled in an online nannying website that allows caregivers and parents to touch base, set, up interviews, etc. Fortunately I have successfully found two jobs through this tool; both of which I really like. Those I had interviewed with up to this point where respectful, grounded, and very straight forward.
Until last night, that is.
A women contacted me asking if I would like to watch her 18 month old for 4 hours a week. No biggie... maybe I could start grocery shopping with the extra cash and all. However when I called her back she proceeded to explain in detail how she wants her child to be watched.
*She (in a VERY high-strung voice) explained that she has different "activity sections" set up in her house, and wants her child to stay at each section for increments of 30 minutes. At NO time should her child EVER watch TV. The family's current nanny is a newly hired college professor, and she wants someone who will work on language skills with the child. Oh and to top it all off, she is pregnant with another baby and will be staying home to "monitor" me for the first two months or so.*
After listening to her ramble on for 15 minutes about what she was looking for, I kindly said that I wasn't sure exactly what my schedule was, but I knew I was going to be trying to fit in a few classes (meaning like Yoga or Pilates... later taken out-of-context) in the morning so I would get back to her if I was interested.
Click. Conversation over. What a spaz.
I wake up this morning to see that she had written a review about me and posted it on my profile through the site. Please see the review below....
Disappointed-Be Alarmed
No no... I'm not kidding. I talked to this women for a total of 15 minutes, if even that. She was so busy telling me the details of what she wanted that she failed to ask me a single question about myself (other than my availability), and when I took the respectful and pain-free route of telling her I wasn't sure about schedules but would get back to her, she proceeded to assume and tell others that I am not only a liar, but someone that can't be trusted with children.
SERIOUSLY???
Who does that?!
I wrote back a very small response to her review... because I'm not about to waste my time trying to justify my trustworthiness to this loony. But for the record, this is what I would have liked to say:
"Dear Ma'am,
The reason I so quickly got off the phone (once you let me get a word in edgewise), was because you are NOT the kind of parent I'm willing to work for. To the world, it may look like you are a caring, dedicated, and hard-working parent. To me however, your over-attention to detail, seemingly paranoid response to things, and obviously controlling nature aren't worth the $15 an hour. I'm sure you try very very hard and have the best of intentions, but I won't run a Montessori program in your living room while you are there monitoring and critiquing my every move. I mean seriously, kill me now.
Could I use this job? Yes. Am I perfectly capable of doing what you ask? Most definitely.
The problem, my over-achieving woman, is that I cannot work in a way that is contrary to what I believe is right, true, and loving. When I watch children, I care for them and I care about how I do my job. I don't think that loving children well means creating a stressful and controlling environment for them, and I refuse to contribute to that goal. I believe in doing what's best for the child, and if you can't handle allowing another person to play some role in discerning what that is while you are away (that is if you EVER actually went away), then you probably shouldn't bother leaving your child with me. It's an insult for you to tell me step-by-step what you child should do, or to insist on having that kind of control over the situation.
Putting all of that aside, let me ASSURE you that in approximately 12 years your kid isn't going to want to be in the same room as you, and will resent everything you tell he or she to do.
I have no problem with parents wanting a certain routine or desiring to leave the TV off... those are probably wise calls. I can follow direction to the T, but if the intention appears to be anything but love for a child, I'm out. Needing to micro-manage every aspect of a child's life is a sign of fear, selfishness, and lack of perspective... NOT love.
Sincerely,
K-A-T-H-A-R-I-N-E. (please try to spell my name correctly next time)"
........
Too harsh?? Maybe. But come on parents, get a grip. I understand it's a scary thing to leave your child with another person and to let go a bit of the control, but please know that you are messing up your kid's life if you constantly need everything to go a certain way.
Am I irritated? Most definitely. Not only because of this woman's obvious lack of knowledge about good parenting, but also because of how she reacted to my decision not to pursue an interview. I have EVERY right not to pursue a job... and the fact that she chose to write accusations that could really effect me and my relationship with other parents is extremely frustrating. Especially given the fact that she has never even met me!
So I'll complete my rambling with this list of things employers do that I appreciate:
-Understanding that your child is NOT the center-of-the-universe... and not asking me to create an environment that suggests that is true.
-Treating me like the educated adult that I am.
-Wanting your child to enjoy a new person, (rather than feeling so paranoid about the process that you have to be apart of every step, even when not present).
-Acting like an adult.
So that's my update for the day. On the bright side I'm learning all sorts of things about what I don't want to do when I'm a parent.
Thanks to the Denckoff and Wilson families who knew how to be great parents and good employers:)
I am currently enrolled in an online nannying website that allows caregivers and parents to touch base, set, up interviews, etc. Fortunately I have successfully found two jobs through this tool; both of which I really like. Those I had interviewed with up to this point where respectful, grounded, and very straight forward.
Until last night, that is.
A women contacted me asking if I would like to watch her 18 month old for 4 hours a week. No biggie... maybe I could start grocery shopping with the extra cash and all. However when I called her back she proceeded to explain in detail how she wants her child to be watched.
*She (in a VERY high-strung voice) explained that she has different "activity sections" set up in her house, and wants her child to stay at each section for increments of 30 minutes. At NO time should her child EVER watch TV. The family's current nanny is a newly hired college professor, and she wants someone who will work on language skills with the child. Oh and to top it all off, she is pregnant with another baby and will be staying home to "monitor" me for the first two months or so.*
After listening to her ramble on for 15 minutes about what she was looking for, I kindly said that I wasn't sure exactly what my schedule was, but I knew I was going to be trying to fit in a few classes (meaning like Yoga or Pilates... later taken out-of-context) in the morning so I would get back to her if I was interested.
Click. Conversation over. What a spaz.
I wake up this morning to see that she had written a review about me and posted it on my profile through the site. Please see the review below....
Disappointed-Be Alarmed
When I reviewed Katherine's profile-she claimed to be honest and professional. I first asked Katherine if she was a student and she said no. I explained in conversation that I would like morning hours. She said this was great and her profile shows these hours to be available. However, as soon as I mentioned that I would be in the home for the beginning of a new sitters time with my daughter-she immediately said that she would have to check with her boyfriends schedule and that she might be signing up for classes. She then said that she would email me if she was interested. Many mothers do not leave their children alone with sitters right at the beginning. Parents should be very alarmed when a sitter is uncomfortable with the parents being in the home -Concerned Parent
............
............
No no... I'm not kidding. I talked to this women for a total of 15 minutes, if even that. She was so busy telling me the details of what she wanted that she failed to ask me a single question about myself (other than my availability), and when I took the respectful and pain-free route of telling her I wasn't sure about schedules but would get back to her, she proceeded to assume and tell others that I am not only a liar, but someone that can't be trusted with children.
SERIOUSLY???
Who does that?!
I wrote back a very small response to her review... because I'm not about to waste my time trying to justify my trustworthiness to this loony. But for the record, this is what I would have liked to say:
"Dear Ma'am,
The reason I so quickly got off the phone (once you let me get a word in edgewise), was because you are NOT the kind of parent I'm willing to work for. To the world, it may look like you are a caring, dedicated, and hard-working parent. To me however, your over-attention to detail, seemingly paranoid response to things, and obviously controlling nature aren't worth the $15 an hour. I'm sure you try very very hard and have the best of intentions, but I won't run a Montessori program in your living room while you are there monitoring and critiquing my every move. I mean seriously, kill me now.
Could I use this job? Yes. Am I perfectly capable of doing what you ask? Most definitely.
The problem, my over-achieving woman, is that I cannot work in a way that is contrary to what I believe is right, true, and loving. When I watch children, I care for them and I care about how I do my job. I don't think that loving children well means creating a stressful and controlling environment for them, and I refuse to contribute to that goal. I believe in doing what's best for the child, and if you can't handle allowing another person to play some role in discerning what that is while you are away (that is if you EVER actually went away), then you probably shouldn't bother leaving your child with me. It's an insult for you to tell me step-by-step what you child should do, or to insist on having that kind of control over the situation.
Putting all of that aside, let me ASSURE you that in approximately 12 years your kid isn't going to want to be in the same room as you, and will resent everything you tell he or she to do.
I have no problem with parents wanting a certain routine or desiring to leave the TV off... those are probably wise calls. I can follow direction to the T, but if the intention appears to be anything but love for a child, I'm out. Needing to micro-manage every aspect of a child's life is a sign of fear, selfishness, and lack of perspective... NOT love.
Sincerely,
K-A-T-H-A-R-I-N-E. (please try to spell my name correctly next time)"
........
Too harsh?? Maybe. But come on parents, get a grip. I understand it's a scary thing to leave your child with another person and to let go a bit of the control, but please know that you are messing up your kid's life if you constantly need everything to go a certain way.
Am I irritated? Most definitely. Not only because of this woman's obvious lack of knowledge about good parenting, but also because of how she reacted to my decision not to pursue an interview. I have EVERY right not to pursue a job... and the fact that she chose to write accusations that could really effect me and my relationship with other parents is extremely frustrating. Especially given the fact that she has never even met me!
So I'll complete my rambling with this list of things employers do that I appreciate:
-Understanding that your child is NOT the center-of-the-universe... and not asking me to create an environment that suggests that is true.
-Treating me like the educated adult that I am.
-Wanting your child to enjoy a new person, (rather than feeling so paranoid about the process that you have to be apart of every step, even when not present).
-Acting like an adult.
So that's my update for the day. On the bright side I'm learning all sorts of things about what I don't want to do when I'm a parent.
Thanks to the Denckoff and Wilson families who knew how to be great parents and good employers:)
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
A Tour of My Humble Abode
That's right ladies and gentlemen (maybe just gentleman... pretty sure Richard is the only male who reads this)... since my mom's package has arrived with the throw pillows (FINALLY), I am ready to show you the new place.
Let's begin with my bedroom... I chose purple and gray. There is still much to add, but these are the colors I'm working with and what I have so far. The table will be painted a shade of gray ("Stone Mountain" actually).
 |
| Please notice the stuffed bunny. His name is Happy. I have not parted from him since I was 7 years old. Don't judge. Next we will enter the bathroom. This was the first part of the apartment that I decorated. At first I wondered if I would get sick of the flowery blue and pink shower curtain, but don't fret... I am extremely girly in secret ways and continue to love the selection:) |
Below is a frame my mom and I found together right before I moved. She added the wire and included magnets. It can be used to hang pictures or jewelry. Please note the there is a missing "A". Let's hope she just couldn't find it or it got lost... would be sad if my mom forgot how to spell my name.
And finally... the third, last, and my personal favorite room of the house... the living room/kitchen area. I went with a beachy theme. Yes I think my love for color-coordination has reached an all time low (or high depending on who you ask:).
.... So that is my new place. I hope you enjoyed the tour. I have had a few rooms that I really loved in life, but this place really is "Katie" in every way... for better-or-worse. Someone should probably come visit me soon so I can share the joy!
P.S. Anyone who knows me well should observe one color that plays a part in every room.... :)
Monday, November 22, 2010
TWO entries in one week... this is what we call progress.
I know, I know... I'm going above and beyond without waiting an entire month or so to write another entry. An incredible improvement really.
Annnnyyyyywwwwaaaaayyyyyy,
I wanted to follow up my previous semi-depressing blog entry with some positive details about this week. I lost my camera a few weeks ago (wait wait, I promise this one isn't a downer...). The loss was relatively tragic.
Don't judge me, this has nothing to do with me being materialistic... it just so happens that taking pictures is my FAVORITE pass time. Whenever I'm far from home or feeling down, I can just go explore for a few hours and take some photos. It's my over-thinking self's way of getting a grip when I need to, or using my creativity to relax. I have loved taking pictures since high school when I would skip classes (except for gym of course) to play in the dark room for hours.
I don't claim to be a pro or even all that great at the activity. Frankly I don't care about anything but the joy of the experience. Which in case you haven't met me (or read the entry about my love of structure), is a very unusual perspective for me to hold about any activity.
So yes, I consider taking pictures a sacred pass time and a wonderful outlet. It reminds me that along with the world being often very ugly, there are so many places/things/people of beauty. Taking pictures helps me to quickly remember just how great the God I serve is--in all His majesty.
So yes, the camera was lost and my heart was broken, (as broken as it could be for an item and all).
But yesterday after church my very thoughtful and sweet boyfriend surprised me with a trip to Best Buy to replace my camera. Truthfully it's hard to even tell this story because I'm still a bit overwhelmed with the surprise. But needless-to-say I am extremely thankful and EXCITED! I spent all day yesterday trying out the camera and am still beaming with how blessed I feel just to be able to take pictures again.
Obviously I won't be able to replace everything I ever loose like this, but what a very very special gift!!!
Oh and to top it all off......
MY MOM'S PACKAGE FINALLY ARRIVED!! (The mail lady actually asked if there would be any more "heavy boxes" for me (ha!)).
These simple two surprises have really made my month and I'm so thankful:)
What an excellent example of how waiting and anticipating things you miss can result in increased joy when whatever actually arrives. I could have never lost my camera and my package could have arrived a month ago when it was scheduled too, but perhaps (don't really know, but just an idea:) God knew exactly when my spirit would need a big pick-me-up.
So that's my good news. More to come on my first Thanksgiving away from family and in a place that lacks any sort of "fall feel".
Annnnyyyyywwwwaaaaayyyyyy,
I wanted to follow up my previous semi-depressing blog entry with some positive details about this week. I lost my camera a few weeks ago (wait wait, I promise this one isn't a downer...). The loss was relatively tragic.
Don't judge me, this has nothing to do with me being materialistic... it just so happens that taking pictures is my FAVORITE pass time. Whenever I'm far from home or feeling down, I can just go explore for a few hours and take some photos. It's my over-thinking self's way of getting a grip when I need to, or using my creativity to relax. I have loved taking pictures since high school when I would skip classes (except for gym of course) to play in the dark room for hours.
I don't claim to be a pro or even all that great at the activity. Frankly I don't care about anything but the joy of the experience. Which in case you haven't met me (or read the entry about my love of structure), is a very unusual perspective for me to hold about any activity.
So yes, I consider taking pictures a sacred pass time and a wonderful outlet. It reminds me that along with the world being often very ugly, there are so many places/things/people of beauty. Taking pictures helps me to quickly remember just how great the God I serve is--in all His majesty.
So yes, the camera was lost and my heart was broken, (as broken as it could be for an item and all).
But yesterday after church my very thoughtful and sweet boyfriend surprised me with a trip to Best Buy to replace my camera. Truthfully it's hard to even tell this story because I'm still a bit overwhelmed with the surprise. But needless-to-say I am extremely thankful and EXCITED! I spent all day yesterday trying out the camera and am still beaming with how blessed I feel just to be able to take pictures again.
Obviously I won't be able to replace everything I ever loose like this, but what a very very special gift!!!
Oh and to top it all off......
MY MOM'S PACKAGE FINALLY ARRIVED!! (The mail lady actually asked if there would be any more "heavy boxes" for me (ha!)).
These simple two surprises have really made my month and I'm so thankful:)
What an excellent example of how waiting and anticipating things you miss can result in increased joy when whatever actually arrives. I could have never lost my camera and my package could have arrived a month ago when it was scheduled too, but perhaps (don't really know, but just an idea:) God knew exactly when my spirit would need a big pick-me-up.
So that's my good news. More to come on my first Thanksgiving away from family and in a place that lacks any sort of "fall feel".
Thursday, November 18, 2010
I Am Blanking On a Good Title....
November blog entry, check.
In honor of a few friends who have pestered me about blogging... I shall blog.
I've tried to think of a fun subject or cool entry and am not coming up with anything incredible (obviously from the title I used)... so I'll just offer a sincere word or two about life at the moment.
I've been here a little over three months. I'm not sure what the average rate of transition is, but I'm confident that I am falling short of that statistic. In many ways my experience here has developed and improved. I have been blessed with a job nannying and cleaning, and I truly do love it. Stable income, simple tasks, consistent environment--truly a blessing. I don't even kind of miss the days of being out of work. The lack of structure was really tough of my spirit, though probably good for me in the long run.
Let the record show that God provided a job RIGHT when I truly needed it. Not sure why this surprised me, but it literally was the week I got to a place of actual need for work. Let the record also show that as with many of His provisions, I can't claim it as my own doing... the family literally found me. Not exactly a pride-builder, but an excellent reminder that God is the one who provides, on His strength and in His timing.
So yeah. Job, check.
As for the rest of life... I'm learning, and many days it's not very pleasant. I'm living on my own (and away from friends and family) for the first time ever, seem to be in a perpetual transition phase, and am trying hard to build my own life here... but struggling.
I have made a few friends here, but for the most part is seems like a constant challenge because no one is really in the same place as me. It can be difficult to relate when everyone else seems to be in a defined stage of life. Newly weds, expecting parents, college students, excited career-driven individuals... I'm always the odd women out.
For the above reasons and more, I find myself pushed to face insecurities and fears I didn't even know I had. Want to learn who you really are? Move away from everything you know and attempt to build a life on nothing truly solid but the Lord. I realize I'm not the first person to ever attempt such a venture, but whoever did should have written a how-to book on it.
As for other random updates:
- My package from my mother has STILL not arrived. Not cool.
- I lost my camera... if you don't realize how big of a tragedy this is then you don't know me very well.
- I Can't wait to go home for Christmas:)
- I am continuously overwhelmed by how beautiful this place is.
- My car got randomly keyed the other day while I was running... What the heck?!
- I'm attempting to start a small group with some girls.. we shall see if that works.
- Getting ready for the first Thanksgiving away from home next week--ugh.
- Bought Walmart dishes that match my rug PERFECTLY.
... That's about it. I would say life here is good, but challenging. I appreciate all the prayers from people (thanks grandma!), and am thankful for all that I'm learning despite some unpleasant moments:)
In honor of a few friends who have pestered me about blogging... I shall blog.
I've tried to think of a fun subject or cool entry and am not coming up with anything incredible (obviously from the title I used)... so I'll just offer a sincere word or two about life at the moment.
I've been here a little over three months. I'm not sure what the average rate of transition is, but I'm confident that I am falling short of that statistic. In many ways my experience here has developed and improved. I have been blessed with a job nannying and cleaning, and I truly do love it. Stable income, simple tasks, consistent environment--truly a blessing. I don't even kind of miss the days of being out of work. The lack of structure was really tough of my spirit, though probably good for me in the long run.
Let the record show that God provided a job RIGHT when I truly needed it. Not sure why this surprised me, but it literally was the week I got to a place of actual need for work. Let the record also show that as with many of His provisions, I can't claim it as my own doing... the family literally found me. Not exactly a pride-builder, but an excellent reminder that God is the one who provides, on His strength and in His timing.
So yeah. Job, check.
As for the rest of life... I'm learning, and many days it's not very pleasant. I'm living on my own (and away from friends and family) for the first time ever, seem to be in a perpetual transition phase, and am trying hard to build my own life here... but struggling.
I have made a few friends here, but for the most part is seems like a constant challenge because no one is really in the same place as me. It can be difficult to relate when everyone else seems to be in a defined stage of life. Newly weds, expecting parents, college students, excited career-driven individuals... I'm always the odd women out.
For the above reasons and more, I find myself pushed to face insecurities and fears I didn't even know I had. Want to learn who you really are? Move away from everything you know and attempt to build a life on nothing truly solid but the Lord. I realize I'm not the first person to ever attempt such a venture, but whoever did should have written a how-to book on it.
As for other random updates:
- My package from my mother has STILL not arrived. Not cool.
- I lost my camera... if you don't realize how big of a tragedy this is then you don't know me very well.
- I Can't wait to go home for Christmas:)
- I am continuously overwhelmed by how beautiful this place is.
- My car got randomly keyed the other day while I was running... What the heck?!
- I'm attempting to start a small group with some girls.. we shall see if that works.
- Getting ready for the first Thanksgiving away from home next week--ugh.
- Bought Walmart dishes that match my rug PERFECTLY.
... That's about it. I would say life here is good, but challenging. I appreciate all the prayers from people (thanks grandma!), and am thankful for all that I'm learning despite some unpleasant moments:)
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Throw Pillows Explained...
In honor of my friend Mindy Owens who wrote a sweet note under my blog (and possibly the only one who actually reads it), I have decided to dedicate this entry to the Ricks family's love of throw pillows. As she observed, both my younger brother and I would like throw pillows for our new places of residence. He in Alabama, and myself in Hawaii... both needing the pillows ASAP.
Let's start from square one though.
According to the online dictionary: A throw pillow, or toss pillow, is a small, decorative type of pillow. Throw pillows are usually placed on sofas or armchairs but are also frequently used on beds and day beds. Throw pillows serve both an aesthetic and a functional purpose....
One may next wonder why in the world the two of us are incapable of buying our own throw pillows (or even want them, being our ages and all). I would guess (and hope) my younger brother may not wish to be seen (as a young male) buying such decorate pillows. I on the other hand, just recently being employed for the first time in three months, cannot justify the expense. But there is more...
Though we both have great excuses, it does not fully explain the desire to have our mommy send us these pillows. After all, they are not really necessary and if anything just get in the way sometimes.
So what's the catch???
The catch is that we have the most amazing and comforting mother on earth. Sorry if you thought you did, but you're wrong.
She loves us in many ways, but one way is by providing the little things in life that make it fun and enjoyable. The little things that most everyone looks over and sees as irrelevant. Some may look at my mother and think her pursuits for just the right blanket or paint color are frivolous or materialistic. To he or she I would say you are a fool and just don't understand, (not to mention if I ever hear you talk about my mother that way, I will kick your ass).
It's not the items themselves that are the joy of my moms finds, it is the love behind them that makes us feel cared for. Don't get me wrong, I loved having the perfect inexpensive jewelry to match my prom dress and all, but it's not the actual purchase that is special, it is her.
You must also understand that my mother shops like it is an art form or a sport. She LOVES the hunt. She not only has excellent taste, but she is creative, knowledgeable, and super cost-effective along the way. If most companies were run with the amount of care, time, and effort that my mother puts towards shopping, they would be hugely successful, guaranteed.
My friends have often noticed that I can be lazy in my pursuit of finding things that go well together or are the perfect combination of colors. Especially in the early college years when I would wear sweatpants and baseball hats everyday. What they fail to see perhaps, is that I am related to a professional shopper who loves to pick things out. It's like growing up with a professional painter and not putting all your personal effort towards painting. When you know someone who does it much better and you have unlimited access to this help, why work to personally perfect that skill??
Okay that might be a little dramatic. I actually do have a sense of taste and find more joy in putting things together the older I get.
Can I just say though... NOT cool trying to decorate my first real apartment from 4000 miles away from my mother. Sure, sure... I'm learning to do things myself, but it's painful without her!
Just to give you a picture: I went to target a few weeks ago, and as I was on the verge of tears feeling so far from home, I called my mom to just hear her voice. (If you haven't picked up on this yet, shopping makes me miss her more). Being the great woman she is, she first comforted me and then proceeded to get in the car, drive to Target, and go through the isles with me to pick things out.
Fact: Target is so generic that the merchandise is not only the same, but organized the same on different land masses.
Two hours, a lamp, a tablecloth, and two floor rugs later... mission accomplished.
The thing is, it has nothing to do with the actual things. I am trained well enough to do that on my own and would probably enjoy the process.
But when I wake up in the morning in my apartment, my mom doesn't seem so far.
Shortly after we picked out the Target items my mother began a search for little things to match my apartment. Since she now had an example of the colors and an idea of what it looks like, she could begin the real hunt. A week later she had put together two care packages that apparently include some amazing throw pillows to match my rug.
Fact: I've been waiting for the US postal service to deliver my boxes for THREE WEEKS NOW. They were supposed to be here two weeks ago, and if they lost them, I will be a mess. Not because of the items, but because I miss my mom so much and the throw pillows will be a great comfort.
In conclusion: the Ricks family is super weird... but my mom is awesome. The USPS needs to bring my boxes... and that is my prayer request for the week.
No... I'm not joking.
(Okay maybe a little:)
Let's start from square one though.
According to the online dictionary: A throw pillow, or toss pillow, is a small, decorative type of pillow. Throw pillows are usually placed on sofas or armchairs but are also frequently used on beds and day beds. Throw pillows serve both an aesthetic and a functional purpose....
One may next wonder why in the world the two of us are incapable of buying our own throw pillows (or even want them, being our ages and all). I would guess (and hope) my younger brother may not wish to be seen (as a young male) buying such decorate pillows. I on the other hand, just recently being employed for the first time in three months, cannot justify the expense. But there is more...
Though we both have great excuses, it does not fully explain the desire to have our mommy send us these pillows. After all, they are not really necessary and if anything just get in the way sometimes.
So what's the catch???
The catch is that we have the most amazing and comforting mother on earth. Sorry if you thought you did, but you're wrong.
She loves us in many ways, but one way is by providing the little things in life that make it fun and enjoyable. The little things that most everyone looks over and sees as irrelevant. Some may look at my mother and think her pursuits for just the right blanket or paint color are frivolous or materialistic. To he or she I would say you are a fool and just don't understand, (not to mention if I ever hear you talk about my mother that way, I will kick your ass).
It's not the items themselves that are the joy of my moms finds, it is the love behind them that makes us feel cared for. Don't get me wrong, I loved having the perfect inexpensive jewelry to match my prom dress and all, but it's not the actual purchase that is special, it is her.
You must also understand that my mother shops like it is an art form or a sport. She LOVES the hunt. She not only has excellent taste, but she is creative, knowledgeable, and super cost-effective along the way. If most companies were run with the amount of care, time, and effort that my mother puts towards shopping, they would be hugely successful, guaranteed.
My friends have often noticed that I can be lazy in my pursuit of finding things that go well together or are the perfect combination of colors. Especially in the early college years when I would wear sweatpants and baseball hats everyday. What they fail to see perhaps, is that I am related to a professional shopper who loves to pick things out. It's like growing up with a professional painter and not putting all your personal effort towards painting. When you know someone who does it much better and you have unlimited access to this help, why work to personally perfect that skill??
Okay that might be a little dramatic. I actually do have a sense of taste and find more joy in putting things together the older I get.
Can I just say though... NOT cool trying to decorate my first real apartment from 4000 miles away from my mother. Sure, sure... I'm learning to do things myself, but it's painful without her!
Just to give you a picture: I went to target a few weeks ago, and as I was on the verge of tears feeling so far from home, I called my mom to just hear her voice. (If you haven't picked up on this yet, shopping makes me miss her more). Being the great woman she is, she first comforted me and then proceeded to get in the car, drive to Target, and go through the isles with me to pick things out.
Fact: Target is so generic that the merchandise is not only the same, but organized the same on different land masses.
Two hours, a lamp, a tablecloth, and two floor rugs later... mission accomplished.
The thing is, it has nothing to do with the actual things. I am trained well enough to do that on my own and would probably enjoy the process.
But when I wake up in the morning in my apartment, my mom doesn't seem so far.
Shortly after we picked out the Target items my mother began a search for little things to match my apartment. Since she now had an example of the colors and an idea of what it looks like, she could begin the real hunt. A week later she had put together two care packages that apparently include some amazing throw pillows to match my rug.
Fact: I've been waiting for the US postal service to deliver my boxes for THREE WEEKS NOW. They were supposed to be here two weeks ago, and if they lost them, I will be a mess. Not because of the items, but because I miss my mom so much and the throw pillows will be a great comfort.
In conclusion: the Ricks family is super weird... but my mom is awesome. The USPS needs to bring my boxes... and that is my prayer request for the week.
No... I'm not joking.
(Okay maybe a little:)
Monday, October 25, 2010
Proverbs 11:25b
Since moving to Hawaii I have had a few VERY encouraging encounters with various individuals. Sometimes it was just a nice word or a question, but a couple of times I have found myself refreshed in creative ways.
A few weeks ago I was hired to help coach a youth basketball camp. I was assigned the six and under group, which was probably divine intervention being that my basketball skills barely exceed a six year old. It was incredibly entertaining to observe the little kids attempt to dribble basketballs larger than their heads and to pass using every bit of strength they possess.
As much as I enjoyed the job and making a little money to buy groceries, one camper was the highlight of my week.
Of the 22 kids attending the camp, there was only one girl. Her name is Kelsey and she is six. I instantly adored her simply for being brave enough to play with so many boys, but she was very shy and a challenge to bond with. During lunch on the first day of camp I asked her what she likes to eat. She told me spaghetti, but "only a certain kind". After momentarily pondering how this six year old has obtained a high maintenance pallet for this seemingly simple pasta dish, I asked her what she meant. Her eyes instantly lit up and she exclaimed "ONLY from Zippy's".
Zippy's is a local fast food restaurant that I have often made fun of because their menu includes every food known to man, including spam. So needless-to-say her response gave me a huge smile. From the Zippy's conversation on she was my little shadow, for better or worse:)
On the last day of camp Kelsey ran up to me, gave me a hug, and handed me an envelope. Later I opened the card and couldn't help but feel incredibly refreshed by how cute it was.
I found the verse on the card to be a perfect fit: "...those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed" Proverbs 11:25b
Did I mention that the note had a gift certificate included?? Zippy's... $5... can't beat that.
Camp is over and I doubt I'll ever see Kelsey again, but her little note stays on my refrigerator door to remind me that even when it doesn't seem like it, the little things matter:)
A few weeks ago I was hired to help coach a youth basketball camp. I was assigned the six and under group, which was probably divine intervention being that my basketball skills barely exceed a six year old. It was incredibly entertaining to observe the little kids attempt to dribble basketballs larger than their heads and to pass using every bit of strength they possess.
As much as I enjoyed the job and making a little money to buy groceries, one camper was the highlight of my week.
Of the 22 kids attending the camp, there was only one girl. Her name is Kelsey and she is six. I instantly adored her simply for being brave enough to play with so many boys, but she was very shy and a challenge to bond with. During lunch on the first day of camp I asked her what she likes to eat. She told me spaghetti, but "only a certain kind". After momentarily pondering how this six year old has obtained a high maintenance pallet for this seemingly simple pasta dish, I asked her what she meant. Her eyes instantly lit up and she exclaimed "ONLY from Zippy's".
Zippy's is a local fast food restaurant that I have often made fun of because their menu includes every food known to man, including spam. So needless-to-say her response gave me a huge smile. From the Zippy's conversation on she was my little shadow, for better or worse:)
On the last day of camp Kelsey ran up to me, gave me a hug, and handed me an envelope. Later I opened the card and couldn't help but feel incredibly refreshed by how cute it was.
I found the verse on the card to be a perfect fit: "...those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed" Proverbs 11:25b
Did I mention that the note had a gift certificate included?? Zippy's... $5... can't beat that.
Camp is over and I doubt I'll ever see Kelsey again, but her little note stays on my refrigerator door to remind me that even when it doesn't seem like it, the little things matter:)
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
A Tour...
Just in time for my monthly blog entry (ha)... A tour of my current residence and the surrounding areas.
That's right, I have officially moved into an apartment. I'll be honest, for a bit there it felt like I may never find a good place. Hawaii real estate is tricky. By "tricky" I mean way over-priced and often in pretty crappy condition. The first two places we scouted out both smelled pretty awful, had tiny little rooms, and ceilings so short that Richard couldn't fully stand up inside. While he isn't actually living with me, (don't worry grandma), I did think it was necessary to find a place he could comfortably stand in... call me crazy. I'm convinced that the ceilings here are shorter because most everyone who lives here seems to be short as well.
Anyway... after looking at several places, I found the PERFECT place.
Anyway... after looking at several places, I found the PERFECT place.
It falls in the "perfect" category for a few very basic, but key reasons:
1) Richard can stand up inside.
2) It's not really big, but offers enough space to have a few friends over, (just as soon as I make more than one friend I think this will come in handy).
3) It looks clean. This may not seem like a big deal, but TRUST ME, it stands out.
4) It has a bedroom air conditioning unit. Being that I'm located on the first floor and don't feel totally safe leaving windows wide open all night, this is huge.
5) It is 4 blocks from my boyfriend's house. Some may see this as clingy, (psh whatever... we lived 4000 miles away from one another before), but if you have ever tried to commute on the H1 highway for more than a few miles than you understand how wonderful it is to be in walking distance.
6) The surrounding area is beautiful.
I live at the bottom of a mountain/hill that is part of a big valley. I'm surrounded by the city, ocean, and the valley. Sort of the best of all worlds:)
So enough talking and on to the tour...
Behind my apartment is an area known as Palolo Valley. My running loop is around this area.
This is the view of "downtown"; a conglomerate of a few different areas. This is where most business and tourist activity goes down. The street in the picture is actually the one between Richard's house and my apartment. (Information only valuable to my mother, but I'll include it all the same:).
This is Diamond Head- a mountain which tourists frequently hike up and locals are almost always surfing at the base of. I myself like to walk or run around the parameter. This is on the opposite side of my apartment as the valley.
So that is all for the tour at the moment. I'll show some inside pics just as soon as the throw pillows my mom is sending arrive in the mail. (Another amazing story in itself...)
I miss everyone very much. While I appreciate the amazing location I am in, no amount of scenery will ever make a place more wonderful than just being with people I love. (When you sell that line to Hallmark, I expect some of the profits).
A few small leads in the job department... but nothing set in stone yet. I may just keep looking for part time nanny jobs to hold me over till Christmas. All the prayers are appreciated!
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Not So Go-With-The-Flow
People are made all sorts of different ways. We are driven by different things, love different activities, think differently, and have different perspectives.
I've always wanted to be that type of person who is go-with-the-flow, happy to sit and watch TV all day, doesn't have a worry to be found when the sky is falling right in front of he or she. I've always admired the individual who felt perfectly content with no schedule, no goal to be reached, and no real agenda for the day. Not lazy, just chill.
I admire them so much that I'm dating one who is excellent at staying even-keel and relaxed at all times.
I, however, am nowhere near being this person, and this truth has become increasingly more evident in the past few weeks.
I like having a schedule, I thrive on structure, and I love nothing more than making to-do lists and completing tasks. Not just some times, but most of the time. I've been unemployed since mid July and this character trait (or flaw depending on how you see it) is not going anywhere.
Being the over-analyzer that I am, I have been wondering whether or not there is something seriously wrong with this characteristic.
I mean really... I have issues.
Just about every night I'll think to myself that the next day I'm just going to go where the wind takes me; wake up when I feel like it, explore what I want, apply for random jobs along the way, and play it all by ear.
I don't play things by ear. Not even sort of. I'm a huge poser if I tell you that's what I'm doing.
Instead I wake up every day between 7:30 and 8:30, wash my face, brush my teeth, put on some type of recreational-friendly apparel, check my email, search craigslist, apply for any jobs that look good, and then sit down to eat breakfast (in that exact order). The ONLY variation to this is that I may throw in my morning workout before eating.
After breakfast I move around organizing my room unnecessarily for about 15 minutes, check craigslist again, and then gather my things in a backpack to go "explore" for the day.
"Explore" is a loose term for me. It certainly doesn't include going to any location without mapquesting first, or just stopping at random places simply because they look fun. No no, that would be too much for my schedule-loving self. "Explore" means I go run somewhere and then hit the beach afterwards.
Well at least going to the beach is a go-with-the-flow activity right??
It would be if I didn't already have my selected location to sit at each beach, have a methodical way of applying sunscreen, and spend my time there the same way each time; read first, listen to music next, and then catch up with people on the phone.
Oh and I like being there for increments of 20 minutes... No, I'm sadly not kidding. Staying for like an hour and 13 minutes might give me an ulcer.
Depending on how well I entertain myself on the beach, I will typically try to throw in another stop or activity on the way home, just to feel like I actually did something that day. Today it was picking out a movie from Blockbuster, yesterday it was shopping at the mall to see what stores they have, and the day before that it was hitting up the convenience store to buy deodorant; which I may add that the lady tried to charge me 80 cents too much for. I wouldn't have noticed the error if I didn't have a set way of selecting the best deals on things... which I do, of course.
It is not that I need things to be a certain way, it is that I naturally think of things in an orderly fashion. Before I get to steps 1, 2, and 3, I've already thoroughly thought about steps 10, 11, and 12.
This should come as no surprise to anyone who knows me or what I want to do. After all this is why I love the idea of creating healthy lifestyle plans for people. Not because I am obsessed with health, but because it the one place my structure-obsessed self seems to actually benefit other people. For those who don't think this way and have bad habits, come to me and I'll give you a ten step plan to organize your time and resources so you reach your goals in a time-effective and logical manner. I don't even care if I make much off of it, I'm just relieved to be organizing something besides myself.
So really it can be used to help people in huge ways.
The only problem is that when I have no useful outlet for this gift/curse I end up driving myself nuts.
I can only color-coordinate my closet and clock my runs so many times.
All that to say... some people need more down time to learn to relax and find balance in their overly-structured lives.
I am not one of these people.
What I would benefit from, (and am currently praying for if you care to join), is a positive outlet for all this excess creative and organizational energy. If possible, sooner rather than later. A job where I can help others and share some of this structure would be amazing.
Just to clarify for my mother, don't worry I'm not turning OCD here:)
As a side note: yes I am in paradise, so please don't hear me complaining. No one likes THAT person.
I've always wanted to be that type of person who is go-with-the-flow, happy to sit and watch TV all day, doesn't have a worry to be found when the sky is falling right in front of he or she. I've always admired the individual who felt perfectly content with no schedule, no goal to be reached, and no real agenda for the day. Not lazy, just chill.
I admire them so much that I'm dating one who is excellent at staying even-keel and relaxed at all times.
I, however, am nowhere near being this person, and this truth has become increasingly more evident in the past few weeks.
I like having a schedule, I thrive on structure, and I love nothing more than making to-do lists and completing tasks. Not just some times, but most of the time. I've been unemployed since mid July and this character trait (or flaw depending on how you see it) is not going anywhere.
Being the over-analyzer that I am, I have been wondering whether or not there is something seriously wrong with this characteristic.
I mean really... I have issues.
Just about every night I'll think to myself that the next day I'm just going to go where the wind takes me; wake up when I feel like it, explore what I want, apply for random jobs along the way, and play it all by ear.
I don't play things by ear. Not even sort of. I'm a huge poser if I tell you that's what I'm doing.
Instead I wake up every day between 7:30 and 8:30, wash my face, brush my teeth, put on some type of recreational-friendly apparel, check my email, search craigslist, apply for any jobs that look good, and then sit down to eat breakfast (in that exact order). The ONLY variation to this is that I may throw in my morning workout before eating.
After breakfast I move around organizing my room unnecessarily for about 15 minutes, check craigslist again, and then gather my things in a backpack to go "explore" for the day.
"Explore" is a loose term for me. It certainly doesn't include going to any location without mapquesting first, or just stopping at random places simply because they look fun. No no, that would be too much for my schedule-loving self. "Explore" means I go run somewhere and then hit the beach afterwards.
Well at least going to the beach is a go-with-the-flow activity right??
It would be if I didn't already have my selected location to sit at each beach, have a methodical way of applying sunscreen, and spend my time there the same way each time; read first, listen to music next, and then catch up with people on the phone.
Oh and I like being there for increments of 20 minutes... No, I'm sadly not kidding. Staying for like an hour and 13 minutes might give me an ulcer.
Depending on how well I entertain myself on the beach, I will typically try to throw in another stop or activity on the way home, just to feel like I actually did something that day. Today it was picking out a movie from Blockbuster, yesterday it was shopping at the mall to see what stores they have, and the day before that it was hitting up the convenience store to buy deodorant; which I may add that the lady tried to charge me 80 cents too much for. I wouldn't have noticed the error if I didn't have a set way of selecting the best deals on things... which I do, of course.
It is not that I need things to be a certain way, it is that I naturally think of things in an orderly fashion. Before I get to steps 1, 2, and 3, I've already thoroughly thought about steps 10, 11, and 12.
This should come as no surprise to anyone who knows me or what I want to do. After all this is why I love the idea of creating healthy lifestyle plans for people. Not because I am obsessed with health, but because it the one place my structure-obsessed self seems to actually benefit other people. For those who don't think this way and have bad habits, come to me and I'll give you a ten step plan to organize your time and resources so you reach your goals in a time-effective and logical manner. I don't even care if I make much off of it, I'm just relieved to be organizing something besides myself.
So really it can be used to help people in huge ways.
The only problem is that when I have no useful outlet for this gift/curse I end up driving myself nuts.
I can only color-coordinate my closet and clock my runs so many times.
All that to say... some people need more down time to learn to relax and find balance in their overly-structured lives.
I am not one of these people.
What I would benefit from, (and am currently praying for if you care to join), is a positive outlet for all this excess creative and organizational energy. If possible, sooner rather than later. A job where I can help others and share some of this structure would be amazing.
Just to clarify for my mother, don't worry I'm not turning OCD here:)
As a side note: yes I am in paradise, so please don't hear me complaining. No one likes THAT person.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
A New Appreciation...
Crap... I'm going to have to start all of my blogs with an apology/explanation/lame excuse for why I haven't written in over a month. I've intended to write, I swear, but most of my thoughts have been all over the place and I figured I'd avoid making others crazy with my incessant pointless rambling.
But whatever, need to move past that...
I've been here almost four weeks and thus far I've gained a new appreciation for several things.
First, I have a new appreciation for anyone who moves to an unfamiliar place.
I'm not talking like Idaho, but more like somewhere where you feel very out-of-place in the culture. Yes indeed Hawaii is apart of the USA and there are many obvious clues of this fact, however I've quickly come to see that it is very different from the other states, for better or worse.
For better: incredible weather all the time, laid-back culture that relieves stress, fresh fruit, beautiful flowers, incredible coffee, beaches and incredible scenery, always something to do outside, and a fun-loving joyful culture.
For worse: prices are ridiculous for everything, street names are impossible to pronounce (some are literally ONLY vowels), lack of fast pace results in less getting done and people being late, some prejudice that comes from locals disliking outsiders, lack of employment opportunities, and clueless tourists all over the place.
All that to say this place, like many, takes some getting use to and adjusting to. I would not claim to be adjusted... not really even close. But all in time...
Secondly, I have developed an appreciation for people willing to help and take time to be welcoming.
When you know very few people and feel sort of lost and over your head, sometimes the simplest kind word can make your day.
For example: the other day I went to an interview for a position at a coffee shop. Not only did I get lost on the way, realize my resume had printed incorrectly on the way over, dress too casual (annoying since every other interview I have gone to I felt overdressed), and discover midway through the interview that the position I wanted wasn't even really an option any more... but on top of all of that, I had to wait to talk to someone for almost TWO HOURS. So needless-to-say I felt disheartened and discouraged on my way out the door.
But as I was walking to my car though, a man who was also attending the interview looked at me with a smile and said "Well how did that go for you?" With a half smile (but really ready to cry) I told him that I didn't feel great about it and that I was having a hard time finding a simple job--that it was more of a challenge than I had expected. The man just smiled and told me that it is frustrating here, and that people pretty much never hired on the spot in this city anymore, but to hang in there.
Now allow me to explain that in my job hunt I have had basically everything go wrong that could. Like very stupid things that are so unnecessary that I end up laughing at myself on the way home. So this man's simple encouraging comment was like a breath of fresh air.
Thirdly I have a new appreciation for family.
My own family for starters. I'm more and more aware of how blessed I am to have a firm foundation; parents who love me well and brothers who I admire. Not a day goes by that I don't do something that I know would make my mother smile or my father laugh. Not a day goes by that I don't approach a situation a certain way due to the way I was brought up or the lessons I was taught through my family. They are my safe place in this world and truly a gift from God.
A prime example: I am my mother's daughter, through and through. I got to spend all of last year with her and I swear she is ingrained in me in such a way that I hear her responses to things even when we aren't talking. Being far from her is without question the most difficult part of moving. Probably every other day I'll get teary-eyed about her and I have the same response each time: I'll start getting sad and feeling down and at first I'll think of her comforting words and presence, but then DIRECTLY following that I'll hear her say "Now suck it up and go about your day".
I also have an appreciation for other families. Particularly Ray's family at the moment. They have been so welcoming and generous throughout my transition. Due to my lack of employment and major need to interact with people on a daily basis, I am around their house ALL THE TIME. They tell me all sorts of stories, feed me, and make me feel right at home. I mean, I try not to overstay my welcome (which I'm most positive I do), but I can't help but love being in their house!!
So while I'm still on the hunt for an apartment, car, and job... I have developed a new appreciation for many things, and for that I'm thankful.
:)
But whatever, need to move past that...
I've been here almost four weeks and thus far I've gained a new appreciation for several things.
First, I have a new appreciation for anyone who moves to an unfamiliar place.
I'm not talking like Idaho, but more like somewhere where you feel very out-of-place in the culture. Yes indeed Hawaii is apart of the USA and there are many obvious clues of this fact, however I've quickly come to see that it is very different from the other states, for better or worse.
For better: incredible weather all the time, laid-back culture that relieves stress, fresh fruit, beautiful flowers, incredible coffee, beaches and incredible scenery, always something to do outside, and a fun-loving joyful culture.
For worse: prices are ridiculous for everything, street names are impossible to pronounce (some are literally ONLY vowels), lack of fast pace results in less getting done and people being late, some prejudice that comes from locals disliking outsiders, lack of employment opportunities, and clueless tourists all over the place.
All that to say this place, like many, takes some getting use to and adjusting to. I would not claim to be adjusted... not really even close. But all in time...
Secondly, I have developed an appreciation for people willing to help and take time to be welcoming.
When you know very few people and feel sort of lost and over your head, sometimes the simplest kind word can make your day.
For example: the other day I went to an interview for a position at a coffee shop. Not only did I get lost on the way, realize my resume had printed incorrectly on the way over, dress too casual (annoying since every other interview I have gone to I felt overdressed), and discover midway through the interview that the position I wanted wasn't even really an option any more... but on top of all of that, I had to wait to talk to someone for almost TWO HOURS. So needless-to-say I felt disheartened and discouraged on my way out the door.
But as I was walking to my car though, a man who was also attending the interview looked at me with a smile and said "Well how did that go for you?" With a half smile (but really ready to cry) I told him that I didn't feel great about it and that I was having a hard time finding a simple job--that it was more of a challenge than I had expected. The man just smiled and told me that it is frustrating here, and that people pretty much never hired on the spot in this city anymore, but to hang in there.
Now allow me to explain that in my job hunt I have had basically everything go wrong that could. Like very stupid things that are so unnecessary that I end up laughing at myself on the way home. So this man's simple encouraging comment was like a breath of fresh air.
Thirdly I have a new appreciation for family.
My own family for starters. I'm more and more aware of how blessed I am to have a firm foundation; parents who love me well and brothers who I admire. Not a day goes by that I don't do something that I know would make my mother smile or my father laugh. Not a day goes by that I don't approach a situation a certain way due to the way I was brought up or the lessons I was taught through my family. They are my safe place in this world and truly a gift from God.
A prime example: I am my mother's daughter, through and through. I got to spend all of last year with her and I swear she is ingrained in me in such a way that I hear her responses to things even when we aren't talking. Being far from her is without question the most difficult part of moving. Probably every other day I'll get teary-eyed about her and I have the same response each time: I'll start getting sad and feeling down and at first I'll think of her comforting words and presence, but then DIRECTLY following that I'll hear her say "Now suck it up and go about your day".
I also have an appreciation for other families. Particularly Ray's family at the moment. They have been so welcoming and generous throughout my transition. Due to my lack of employment and major need to interact with people on a daily basis, I am around their house ALL THE TIME. They tell me all sorts of stories, feed me, and make me feel right at home. I mean, I try not to overstay my welcome (which I'm most positive I do), but I can't help but love being in their house!!
So while I'm still on the hunt for an apartment, car, and job... I have developed a new appreciation for many things, and for that I'm thankful.
:)
Thursday, August 5, 2010
T-minus ONE week...
I planned on starting this blog several weeks ago, but truthfully when you know you are about to make a big life transition you sort of want to enjoy where you are before it changes.
Therefore I opted out of writing till now.
That or maybe I've avoided writing because I simply have no idea what is coming, and writing about my lack of future plans only accentuates my cluelessness (denial at its' best).
Both are true.
Regardless, I move a week from today so I figured better to start now than never.
For those who think the bio portion of blogs are unworthy of reading, (I fall in that category), I currently live in St. Louis where I was born and raised, and returned to following college graduation. For the past year I have been living at home, working in a new orthopedic medical practice, and spending quality time with my family.
To answer the questions I am frequently asked about my new adventure:
No, I don't have a place to live yet.
No, I'm not living with my boyfriend unless we are married (some call it old-fashioned... others call it a healthy dating relationship).
No, I don't have a job yet.
No, I don't know what type of job I want yet.
No, I don't really care what job I have so long as I make enough and am not miserable.
No, I'm not ashamed in my lack of career aspirations, (pat-on-the-back for all you successful career-minded women... there are just things I care more about... like playing in the ocean).
No, I have no real contacts anywhere close to Hawaii.
What I consider crucial details:
Yes, I can't wait to live in paradise.
Yes, I love to be active and year-round beautiful weather is my version of heaven-on-earth.
Yes, I'm thrilled to live closer to my boyfriend and think this is a wise choice and an incredible opportunity.
That's about it for now... I'm very excited and hope I'll have lots more to share ahead!
Therefore I opted out of writing till now.
That or maybe I've avoided writing because I simply have no idea what is coming, and writing about my lack of future plans only accentuates my cluelessness (denial at its' best).
Both are true.
Regardless, I move a week from today so I figured better to start now than never.
For those who think the bio portion of blogs are unworthy of reading, (I fall in that category), I currently live in St. Louis where I was born and raised, and returned to following college graduation. For the past year I have been living at home, working in a new orthopedic medical practice, and spending quality time with my family.
To answer the questions I am frequently asked about my new adventure:
No, I don't have a place to live yet.
No, I'm not living with my boyfriend unless we are married (some call it old-fashioned... others call it a healthy dating relationship).
No, I don't have a job yet.
No, I don't know what type of job I want yet.
No, I don't really care what job I have so long as I make enough and am not miserable.
No, I'm not ashamed in my lack of career aspirations, (pat-on-the-back for all you successful career-minded women... there are just things I care more about... like playing in the ocean).
No, I have no real contacts anywhere close to Hawaii.
What I consider crucial details:
Yes, I can't wait to live in paradise.
Yes, I love to be active and year-round beautiful weather is my version of heaven-on-earth.
Yes, I'm thrilled to live closer to my boyfriend and think this is a wise choice and an incredible opportunity.
That's about it for now... I'm very excited and hope I'll have lots more to share ahead!
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