Day 305- Family Movie Night

Tonight I'm heeding over to my brother's house for movie night with him, my sister-in-law, and nieces. We are going to be watching Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters. The movie is based on the children/teen book of the same name. This is the second book in the five book series that is revolves around Greek mythology. All of us watching the movie tonight have read the entire series. It should be fun, especially because we are also having Costco pizza, which I believe is the best pizza there is.


Day 305- A Challenge A Day

There isn't a challenge for today because I picked a 30 day challenge. Instead, I will share a quote from Greek mythology. It is in regards to soul mates and everyone having another half.

Day 304- Oops, I Forgot

I have mentioned before that I take medication every day to help with my anxiety and depression. I have been taking it for about 10 months now and I have never missed a dose. Which is good because the medication I take is an anti-depressant, which is categorized as an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). Even though this type of medication is not considered addictive, it can cause physical withdrawal like symptoms. This is why anyone who takes this type of medication needs to consult with their doctor to properly wean themselves off the medication.

Yesterday I forgot to take my medication. I was stuck in traffic and was more concerned with being late to work than taking my medicine. It wasn't until I got home and saw my medicine that I realized I had not taken it. As soon as I realized this I took it. Now I know it takes longer than a day to have this type of medication leave your system completely, but it was nice to know that it didn't affect me like I had in my mind it would. That makes me think that when I go back to see my doctor in May, I might be ready to start the weaning process. By that time, considering nothing major happens, I will have had a full GOOD year under my belt. I might be ready to go back to a life of no medication.


Day 304- A Challenge A Day

Growing up I was part of the Disney generation. According to Disney, this is what love was and this is how to get a guy to like you.

As I got older the "chick flick" movie type was very popular and still is today. This is what I have learned from those movies that love is like.

The true meaning of love is being selfless, doing your best to always be patient, being loyal, putting your trust in those you love, commitment, protecting the ones you love,  not purposely doing harm, giving all of yourself, never giving up, not being vindictive, being understanding, not holding things against the ones you love, forgiveness, being kind, being honest, and always wanting to and bringing the best out in yourself and the ones you love. 

This is love.

Day 303- Bed Buddies

One of my mom's favorite stories to tell is about me and one of my best friends. He and I have been friends since we were about 19 years-old. We were working at the same clothing store when we met. Even after I quit we stayed friends, and we eventually worked at another job together. This past summer I had the joy of seeing him get married. He was a huge support during my rough few years. He will definitely be a friend for life.

Now we thought when we met at 19 years-old, that was the first time we ever met. It wasn't until a friend of ours had a baby that we discovered that wasn't true. My friend and I were born 3 days apart. I was born with a bunch of health issues and he was a premie so we both spent time in the ICU. We were born at the same hospital. We both had the same ICU nurse. We literally had our incubators right next to each other.

Now when I left the hospital I ended up growing up in a certain part of the valley. My friend grew up in another part. Eventually his family moved and ended up in the same area as my family. As a result we ended up at the same workplace. How cool is that? I definitely think we were meant to be friends.


Day 303- A Challenge A Day

Me as a baby

  

Day 302- I Come From Where?

Have you ever thought about where you come from? No, this is not going to be an evolution verses creation debate. I'm talking about if you ever thought about who your ancestors are. Have you ever wondered who your great-great-great-great-great-great grandparents were? There are tons of services out there today that help with these questions. I personally don't know anything farther than my great grandparents, and even that isn't too clear.

I think it would be so cool to find out if I had an ancestor who invented something, had a bunch of children, was famous, etc. Then again, it could be scary to find out if you had ancestors who were considered a "bad" person. What if I have a common ancestor with Brad Pitt? How cool would that be?

 I think one thing I would like to find out is if any of my ancestors had issues with anxiety or depression. Those kinds of conditions are often hereditary, so I would be interested in learning more in that respect. However, since in the past those kind of issues were either taboo or society didn't have too much knowledge about mental health, it would be hard to figure out.

One day I would consider really diving into my family history. Right now though, I don't have the resources to really research it. It just is amazing to me that when I look down at my hand all those cells and pieces of DNA have come together and were passed down through the generations to make me. I could have the same nose, same laugh, same feet, and same distaste for celery as my great-great-great grandma and I didn't even know it.


Day 302- A Challenge A Day

When it comes to the Gemini sign I feel like I am either exactly as they describe it or not at all. I do like to gather information because I love learning. I do also like to develop deep relationships with family and friends, but I don't find I talk a lot. I also don't think I'm the life of the party since I am actually quite shy and introverted. I do find I have a lot of imagination and am creative.

I can see both sides to almost any argument, but I am not fickle by any means. I am able to do multiple things at once, but follow-through is not a problem at all. I do think I am quick-thinking, clever, and like to listen. I do share a lot with loved ones. I do not get bored easily, and I don't think I have ever been described as scheming or unfocused.

I do think when it comes to work I do look at thing is all areas, and that I do fall to the back and are not necessarily the leader. When it comes to relationships, I am not logical or unemotional, I would consider myself the opposite. I don't necessarily think I am forever young because I have always taken the mom role in all my friend groups. I do like working in teams, whether it's play or work. In relationships, I do not think I am overly flirtatious or playful. I also hate yoga and don't own anything yellow.

The last paragraph I think describes me well. So maybe I am a Gemini.

Gemini
May 21 - June 21

Gemini is the third sign of the zodiac, and those born under this sign will be quick to tell you all about it. That's because they love to talk! It's not just idle chatter with these folks, either. The driving force behind a Gemini's conversation is their mind. The Gemini-born are intellectually inclined, forever probing people and places in search of information. The more information a Gemini collects, the better. Sharing that information later on with those they love is also a lot of fun, for Geminis are supremely interested in developing their relationships. Dalliances with these folks are always enjoyable, since Geminis are bright, quick-witted and the proverbial life of the party. Even though their intellectual minds can rationalize forever and a day, Geminis also have a surplus of imagination waiting to be tapped. Can a Gemini be boring? Never! 

Since Geminis are a mix of the yin and the yang, they are represented perfectly by the Twins. The Gemini-born can easily see both sides of an issue, a wonderfully practical quality. Less practical is the fact that you're not sure which Twin will show up half the time. Geminis may not know who's showing up either, which can prompt others to consider them fickle and restless. 

They can be wishy-washy, too, changing their mood on a simple whim. It's this characteristic which readily suggests the Mutable Quality assigned to this sign. Mutable folks are flexible and go with the flow. Further, the Twins are adaptable and dexterous and can tackle many things at once. It's a good thing, too, when you consider their myriad interests. The downside of such a curious mind, however, can be a lack of follow-through. How much can any one person do, anyway? 

Ruled by Mercury, Geminis exhibit a delicious brand of mercurial energy. They are quick-thinking, quick-witted and fast on their feet, much like the messenger god of Roman mythology that rules their sign. Geminis are both curious and clever, which is why they are such a hit at cocktail parties. Although they talk a great game, they also love to listen and learn. With any kind of luck, the Twins will find themselves in interesting company, because if they don't, they are likely to get bored and start fidgeting. Any social setting is a good one for a Gemini, however, since these folks are charming, congenial and love to share themselves with their friends. While their effusiveness may be misconstrued as scheming by some, Geminis generally have their hearts in the right place. It's that ample energy which can also paint them as scatterbrained and unfocused, but behind all that zipping around, the Twins are busily filing all that good data away.

The element associated with Gemini is Air. Air signs are the thinking person's signs, and the Twins don't disappoint. Those born under this sign prize intellect and consider it the key to all things. At work, they are the clearest of thinkers, looking at a project from all (well, at least two) sides and putting forth some logical and well-thought-out ideas. This quality makes Geminis an asset to any team, and while these folks are not inclined to take the lead, they are a most valuable component. It's also the Gemini's literary bent that allows them to offer a useful perspective on most any situation. The Twins also enjoy bringing their objective reasoning and big-picture ability into their personal relationships. While some may perceive all this logical thought as cold and unemotional, it's simply how these folks tick. They want to connect, they just do it their own way. Luckily for Geminis (and their pals), their lightness of spirit and youthful exuberance help them to appear forever young. In keeping with that skip in their step, Geminis enjoy short road trips -- and their agile minds and nimble hands ensure that they could change a tire (if needed) in no time flat. Is all of this Twin-energy more than any one person can handle? Ah, maybe that's why they are two. 

When it comes to sports, Geminis would seem a natural for doubles tennis -- and they are. They love the camaraderie of games and play, which is why they excel at team events. Whether it's volleyball or a game of charades, Geminis are always ready to play. A book club would certainly stimulate their literary minds. In the game of love, Geminis are playful, flirtatious and endless fun. Physically speaking, Gemini rules the nervous system, which is why Twins should practice yoga or deep breathing techniques. Layering themselves in soft yellows and blues will also calm their mood. 

The great strength of the Gemini-born is in their ability to communicate effectively and to think clearly. Adventures of the mind are what the Twins are all about. They also love to share themselves with their friends, and they make for charming companions.

Day 301- Sleepless Night

Last night I did not sleep well. I had a hard time falling asleep because I would be hot and then cold. I had heart burn which was not very fun. Tyson also was having a hard time sleeping and kept moving around. Eventually I took him out of my room and let him sleep with my parents. That seemed to be what he wanted. It's weird because he sleeps with me almost every night, so I have a hard time when he is not there in the room. Hopefully tonight will be a better night sleep. Otherwise I'm sure my anxiety will be heightened tomorrow since I have a hard time when I'm overly tired.


Day 301- A Challenge A Day

Here are 5 guys I think are handsome, and 5 girls that I think are pretty. They are in no particular order….except Justin Timberlake. He is and always will be #1 on my list.

Justin Timberlake- Singer, Actor

Luke Bryan- Singer

Chris Hemsworth- Actor

Brian Dales- Singer

Zac Efron- Actor

Taylor Swift- Singer

Teresa Palmer- Actress

Nikki Reed- Actress

Emma Watson- Actress

Lauren Conrad- Reality Star

Day 300- Wanderlust

I'm excited to talk about today's post ending so I'm going to jump straight to it.


Day 300- A Challenge A Day

I hope that I get to go to all these places at some point in my life.

1.) Greece and Croatia

 

This is at the very top of my must travel to list.  I love Greek mythology and would love to go to the country where all that history came from. I would totally geek out and do all the educational tours that tell all the history and facts to the Greek landmarks. That and I will eat nothing but baklava the entire time. After getting my Greece fix I want to also go to Croatia and do nothing but lay on the beautiful beaches there. 

2.) Italy

I have one reason and one reason only why I want to go to Italy: FOOD!! Italian food is my favorite. I could eat pasta for every meal. I also would love to go see the leaning tower of Pisa, the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and at least one of the hundreds of vineyards there.

3.) London

I of course would love to go to London to see the obvious tourist attractions like Big Ben, The Eye, the Palace, and the London Bridge. I also really want to go to a pub and watch a "football" game. But what I would really want to see is all the Harry Potter locations that are there. I would also love to ride on a double decker bus, see Abby Road, and take a ride through the English country side.

4.) New York

My dream is to go to New York in the Winter time. I want to ice skate in Rockefeller Center, see Macy's Harold Square decorated for Christmas, and spend New Year's Eve in Times Square. I would also love to go in the Summer time and walk for hours in Central Park. Of course, I would shop and eat as much as I could. I'm unsure if they still do it, but they use to have a Sex and the City tour that brings you around and shows you iconic spots from the show.

5.) Hawaii

I've never been there but I already love it. One of my favorite things is the beach. Plus there are so many hiking and waterfall trails that I want to do. I don't care which island I go to, but I want to go to at least one.

Day 299- Stadium Series

For those of us who are hockey fans in Los Angeles it is a big day. Today the Los Angeles Kings are playing the Anaheim Ducks at Dodger stadium in Downtown L.A. Naturally, as a Ducks fan I hope they cream the Kings on their home turf. I will be going over to my brother's friends house to watch the game where my brother and I will be the only Ducks fans there. should be interesting and fun. It is days like today that memories can be made. Check out what the game today is all about.

Day 299- A Challenge a Day

I have 2 mason jars that are filled with all kinds of memories. I have tickets from almost every single concert, hockey game, baseball game, confetti from concerts, and concert wristbands I have collect since I was a teenager. One day I plan on breaking them opening and going through them. For now, the jars are my happy memories all in one place.

Day 298- Family

I don't have what is considered large family, but it definitely is not small either. My immediately family consists of my parents (who have been married for 35 years), an older brother (who is 13 years older than me), and a younger brother (who is 3 years younger than me). I also have a sister-in-law and 3 nieces. On my mom's side both my grandparents are still alive. I also have from my mom's side 4 aunts, 3 uncles, and 4 cousins. All my cousins are boys and with me only having brothers, I am the only niece/granddaughter for my mom's family (and I LOVE it). On my Dad's side both my grandparents have passed away. My dad has 1 brother and 2 sisters. Both my aunts are married and from them I have 3 cousins. My dad's brother is no longer married, but my family is still close with my 2 cousins and aunt from that marriage. Total, including myself, my immediate and extended family consists of 35 people. That's not too big or too small. As Goldie Locks and the 3 bears would say, "It's just right!"


Day 298- A Challenge A Day

A picture of me, my parents, and younger brother from this past Summer.

Day 297- Birthday Time

Tonight is one of my best friend's birthday. To celebrate our group of super close friends are going out for drinks and dessert. It will be fun because it will be awhile before all of us are together again since some are leaving for vacations. So I will make sure to enjoy and appreciate this night with great and amazing friends.


Day 297- A Challenge A Day

The qualities I am most proud of when it comes to my personality are that I am hard working, I truly care about people, and that I am extremely responsible.

Day 296- Warm and Fuzzy

The challenge today is to talk about things that make me feel warm and fuzzy. One thing that always does is my friends. For awhile my friends and I would video tape a lot of the activities we would do. Then, one of our friends would edit everything together and make a short movie of it. Every time I watch any of the videos it puts a smile on my face. One of my favorites is from a few years ago when we had a Jersey Shore theme party, but it isn't very appropriate to put on here. Another favorite is from about 3 years ago when a friend rented a beach house for a week for her birthday. It puts a smile on my face every time I see it and reminds me of that trip. Check it out below…. there are only a few inappropriate parts. ;)

Check it out.

Day 296- A Challenge A Day

Things that makes me feel warm and fuzzy: the beach, my family, Tyson, my friends, country music, How I Met Your Mother, country music, music in general, reading a good book, chick flicks, my nieces, getting my nails done, shopping, movies, hockey, anything Disney, church, being creative, puppies, sitting in the sun, etc.

For more examples please see my post entitle LOVE LIST.

Day 295- Sing Off

Tyson and I decided to sing last night. I thought I would share it since it brings such a smile to my face.

Watch it here.

Day 295- A Challenge A Day

5 Turn Ons

1.) When a guy is close to his family.

2.) When a guy is good with children and/or animals.

3.) A guy who is motivated and/or hard-working.

4.) A guy with nice teeth.

5.) When a guy has light colored eyes.

5 Turn Offs

1.) When a guy smokes, does drugs, drinks too much.

2.) When a guy is too full of himself.

3.) When a guy is selfish. 

4.) A guy with A LOT of facial hair.

5.) A guy who has too many muscles.

Day 294- I Have A Dream

Today we celebrate the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Now I know being white, I have had few experiences when it comes to being discriminated against for my race. I would be lying though if I said I had never experienced discrimination in my life. Both being a woman and what is considered "handicapped" because of physical aspects I was born with, I have been treated differently. I can't remember specific times when I was given special treatment because I was a woman, but I have because of my physical difference.

With my physical limitations, I feel like I have never let it hold me back or made me ask for special treatment. To me, there is nothing wrong with me. I'm just like everyone else. I think that because I have always had this attitude, I was never mistreated or picked on growing up. I was always treated equal to everyone else. Kids being mean was never a problem. It was actually adults when I was older that treated me with special care.

The first time was in high school when I was taking a driver's education class. The driving instructor told me that instead of the normal 3 days behind the wheel instruction like everyone else got, I would need a full week because I was "handicapped." I showed her because on the first day, within 20 minutes, I was allowed to leave the parking lot area because my turns were so good. The other student with me who had no physical limitations or mental limitations (they just simply requested more time) spent an entire day and a half before they could leave the parking lot.

The second time was in my second year of college. I was more than half way through the semester when my class had our first test. My teacher pulled me aside and ask if I needed more time to take the test. I told him no and asked why. He said because of my handicap. I just looked at him and said no. I was so mad but took my test anyways. I specifically remember not only did I do very well on that test, I was one of the first few to finish.

The third time was in one of my last semesters of college. I was taking a diversity class where we talked about discrimination and where it takes place in society. The majority of our class time was spent in small groups where we discussed the material and shared our stories. One day the professor came over to our group to observe. Out of nowhere he interrupted and asked me to share all the times I had suffered discrimination growing up. I told him I didn't really suffer, and he basically called me a liar. He said because I was "handicapped" I definitely did experience it. He insinuated that I was made fun of growing up, didn't get treated the same, and was probably stared at a lot. I told him that none of that happened because I don't see myself as "handicapped" so others don't either. I don't let it define me nor did I pay attention to it if did happen. I remember being so mad by the end of the class I went straight to my car and cried. It was ironic that the teacher teaching diversity and acceptance was doing the exact opposite in his classroom.

Now I know that Dr. King gave his speech during the height of racial tension in our country. But his speech was not given to merely include race. He meant for it to include all discrimination, no matter what kind. Even though we have come a very far way, discrimination is still very prominent in our society (i.e.: gay rights, mental health stigmas, handicap stigmas, gender equality, and still race equality). It is unfortunate Dr. King's speech can still ring true today, but it is fortunate that listening to his speech can still bring hope for the future.

Day 294- A Challenge A Day

My Room

Day 293- A Second Chance

The last few weeks at church the series has been titled "The People of The Second Chance." The overall message is that when it comes to God, we are all worthy and automatically receive a second chance because of the sacrifice Jesus made for us. Today, the subject was that when we receive that second chance, we should rest in it. Just like when we go on vacations to foreign countries and are told to not drink the water because it can be hazardous, we should not drink in the idea that we are not worthy of a second chance. We all deserve one and we all get one.

Now I don't think I need to be given a second chance because of something I have done. Sure I'm human, which means I've made mistakes and "sinned." But I don't believe I've done anything that by societies standards would be considered unforgivable of a second chance. That is not what my second chance is all about. I have been given a second chance at a happy life.

I know we all have ups and downs in life and I don't think my downs are any more important than anyone else's. To me, it's all relative to where we are at in life. For me, however, my down the last few years was the worst it ever has been. My second chance was getting out of it. For some people, anxiety and depression is a life long struggle. It doesn't last a few years, but it lasts a lifetime.

By being a person who is determined, strong, and willing to try anything my second chance was not a gift. It was a choice I made. I made the choice to ask for it. I made the choice to work for it. I made the choice to go to therapy. I made to choice to take medication. I made the choice to try writing as my outlet. I made the choice to open up to myself and others. I made the choice to go to church. I made the choice to surrender and let God show me the answers instead of thinking I already had them. I made the choice to accept and relax in the second chance at a happy and healthy life I have been given. You can make a choice too. Ask for your second chance. Work for your second chance. Live and rest in your second chance because it's not only worth it, it's possible.


Day 293- A Challenge A Day

My confession is that as a new believer in God, there are days I still have my doubts. If I had to compare it to something, I would compare it to life. Right now, I'm in the infant stage of my religious life. Everything is so new and I'm just learning what it is all about. I will question things, learn new things, make mistakes, and eventually become firm in my belief whichever way it goes. It is hard to change 26 years of thinking in just 2 short years. I would be wrong though to deny the positive changes in my life that have occurred since I began going to church, opening up to God, reading the Bible, and learning about Jesus. For me, that is something that is always in the back of my mind on those days of doubts. The proof that once I let the idea of God, faith, and hope in everything changed. And it changed for the better.

Day 292- Changing Someone's Day

How many out there believes that what we do can have an enormous impact on someone else? It can be someone in our every day life or a stranger we cross in passing. It can be something we are aware that we are doing, or something we have not idea about. How many times has someone else had an effect on you? Say you were having a bad day and a stranger simply smiled at you. That can change your entire day. Or if you were having a great day and someone cuts you off while driving, that can bring down your entire mood.

I had always know that what I do every day of my life can make an impact on those around me. Working in retail for so many years I saw it on a daily basis. I still see it at my job now. I had always thought it was bigger things that I did that were the true determining factors in affecting and impacting others. It wasn't until I was dealing with my own issues that I realized that it truly is the little things.

There is a quote that says something along the lines about not judging others because you don't know what their journey/path is all about. It just reminds me that we never know what another person is growing through. So many people that I have told  I have had struggles in the past can't believe I would ever have had issues with anxiety and depression. Even when I was in the thick of it most people didn't know how bad it really was. The same can be said for every single person you pass by each day.

Remember that a kind word, a smile, holding the door open, saying hello, or simply asking how someone is doing can change and affect someone's entire day. We truly do have the power to effect everyone we encounter. It is up to us if we want that power to be negative or positive. This doesn't mean we have to be happy and polite and positive every day. We are all entitled to bad days. Just remember though how on those bad days the smallest thing from another could have changed the bad day into a good day.


Day 292- A Challenge A Day

5 Things that irritate me about the opposite sex
1.) Baggy pants/sagging
2.) Spitting
3.) Facial hair
4.) They all think getting hit in the private area is funny (no matter the age)
5.) When they get in physical fights for no reason

5 Things that irritate me about the same sex
1.) How negative/judgmental they can be to other women
2.) Gossiping too much
3.) Wear too much makeup
4.) Wear unflattering clothing
5.) When they get in physical fights for no reason

Day 291- Laser Tag

Tonight I'm going out with my brother and his friends to play laser tag. Should be very interesting, but hopefully very fun!

Day 291- A Challange A Day

Here is what I wore today.

Day 290- That Was Close

I was officially let off of jury duty today. I won't go into details but it was definitely a stressful and emotional week. As a gift to myself for getting through it fairly well, tonight I will have a "me" night. It's been awhile since I have painted my nails so I think I will be doing that. It's important I think after a stressful time to reward yourself when you've been through something tough. Which is exactly what I'm going to do tonight.


Day 290- A Challenge A Day

Today I'm suppose to write about what I worry about a lot. I think I've done that more than once. Just in case you forgot, there are three things that I worry about the most that give me the most anxiety. They are: my own personal health, the health of my loved ones, and if I will have issues with severe anxiety and depression my entire life. I've made huge strides, but these things still come up from time to time.

Day 289- 76 Days Left

The last week or so I feel like I have had no inspiration in writing topics. I am having some kind of writers block. Maybe it is because I have been preoccupied with jury duty and work. I realized though that after today I only have 75 days left on this project. Maybe the reason I have had nothing in mind to write is because I have almost written 300 days in a row. After awhile you have to run out of ideas. If I don't have any inspiration tomorrow I will try reading some of my gratitude book because that always seems to give me ideas. I could also try looking for journal topics online. Either way, I will keep on writing because I promised and committed to myself I would. And if I don't come up with anything writing that you have no idea what to write about counts, right!?


Day 289- A Challenge A Day

Today my challenge is to put my iPod on and put it on shuffle. I am to write down the first 10 songs that come up. So here we go!

1.) "Spectrum" by Florence and the Machine from the album Ceremonials
2.) "Time to Go" by The Maine from the album Can't Stop, Won't Stop
3.) "Iris" by New Found Glory from the album From Your Screen to Your Stereo
4.) "Knockout" by Lil Wayne Ft. Nicki Minaj from the album Rebirth
5.) "My Boy Builds Coffins" by Florence and the Machine from the album Lungs
6.) "Dear Mr. President" by Pink from the album I'm Not Dead
7.) " We Need A Break" by We Are The In Crowd from the album Guaranteed to Disagree
8.) "The Curse of Curves" by Cute Is What We Aim For from the album The Same Old Blood Rush With A New Touch
9.) "Cave In" by Owl City from the album Ocean Eyes
10.) " No Son of Mine" by Every Time I Die from the album The Big Dirty

Day 288- National …. Day

Yesterday I was reading an article that was talking about bizarre national holidays. I decided to look up my birthday and see what random national holidays were on that day. There was: National Applesauce Cake Day (I don't like applesauce or cake all that much so I won't be celebrating); National Hug Your Cat Day (I don't have a cat so I won't be doing this); National Old Maid's Day (I hope I don't end up an old maid!); National Cheese Day (I will definitely eat chess this day, especially may favorite- Swiss);  National Frozen Yogurt Day (I will have frozen yogurt for dessert); and National Cognac Day ( I don't drink anymore and when I did I would have never drank this).

Google your birthday and see what National Holidays come up. It is pretty interesting.

Day 288- A Challenge A Day

I have a total of 7 piercings and 1 tattoo. All of my piercing are in my ears. I have 3 on each ear on the lower section of my ear, better known as the ear lobe, and I have one of my left ear that is in the upper cartilage area. I actually do not wear any earrings on a regular basis. In fact I'm sure a few of my piercings are probably closed up by now. My ears are fairly sensitive and get infected easily. So I save the wearing of earrings for special occasions only.

I have my tattoo on my lower back in the area better known as a "tramp stamp." At the time when I got it I was 19 years-old. I actually did it for my birthday. I had wanted a tattoo for my 18th birthday, but decided that if I still wanted it a year later, I would get it then. Around the time I got my tattoo that location was very popular. I am actually glad I got it there because it is low enough that when I'm older and don't wear low rise jeans, shorter tops, or 2 piece bathing suits anymore, it won't be seen. 

My tattoo is a nautical star, which I got because at the time I was very into pop-punk/rock music. This symbol is often seen in relation to that type of music. I actually got the idea for my tattoo at a concert. There is also a black designs around it as well. If I had the choice now I probably would not get a tattoo just because I never see it, but that is also why I don't regret it because I never see it.

Day 287- Back Again

Tomorrow I have to go back to jury duty. I will be finding out by the end of the day if I will be put on the jury or not.  I know I can't go into detail about it, but I hope I do not have to serve. It's not a case I would like to be apart of. We will see how it plays out. In the meantime I will have to try and get all my work done in the morning tomorrow since I do not have to report until the afternoon. I better go to be early tonight since I will have a busy and stressful day tomorrow.


Day 287- A Challenge A Day

I hate meatloaf. It's weird because I love hamburgers, which is made of ground beef as well. When my family has meatloaf, we call it Shepherd's pie. We have the meatloaf on the bottom, vegetables (which is usually peas or corn), and mashed potatoes on top. I'm glad my family doesn't cook it very often because not only can I not eat it, I can't even look at it. When I do, I start to gag. I'm not sure why, but I HATE meatloaf.

Day 286- Bucket List Item!

Today I crossed off another item on my bucket list. I got a massage. It was nice but I'm unsure if I'll ever do it again. They were pretty rough which felt nice at the time, but I'll see how sore I am tomorrow.

55.) Get a massage.


Day 286- A Challenge A Day

Here is 3 people I want to say something too:

Mom & Dad- I love you guys more than I will ever be able to say. thank you for everything.

My Brothers- Thank you for being so great and never making me wish I had a sister.

Taylor Swift- Thank you for being you and bringing me so much positive energy and happiness when I needed it most.

 

Day 285- Movie Night

Tonight I am going over to my brother and sister-in-law's for a movie night. We haven't done this in a long time so it will be nice to do. While I was going through my anxiety issues I could always count on my sister-in-law to be there, whether it was to talk or to have fun activities like movie nights. We actually had movie nights a lot because it was something that helped me to feel calm and comfortable when normally I was a reck from my anxiety. It will be nice to have a movie night where I'm actually feeling good and can just enjoy it for what it is. Now lets just hope Redbox has something good to rent.


Day 285- A Challenge A Day

I have posted this quote in a previous post, but since the challenge today is to post my favorite quote I'm posting it again.

Day 284- Learned Something New

There is an old say "You learn something new every day." Well today I learned something new about myself…I have a dimple in my left cheek. I'm not someone who is always looking at themselves in the mirrors so I'm not surprised I never noticed it. Now I don't have them when I smile, but they are there. Tonight I was putting vasaline on my lips because they have been pretty chapped and regular chapstick isn't cutting it. When I went to press my lips together and rub the vasaline in, I saw the dimple in my cheek. Who knew?


Day 284- A Challenge A Day

(Not a typical day, but this was not a typical week)

6:05AM- Alarm goes off
6:45AM- Finally get out of bed
6:45-6:50AM- Take Tyson outside and give him his breakfast
6:50-7:20AM- Get ready for work
7:20-8:00AM- Drive to work
8:00-10:00AM- Answer emails, get ready for the meetings at work
10:00-11:30AM- Conference call at work
11:30AM - 12:00PM- Answer messages received while in conference call
12:00-1:30PM- Lunch meeting
1:45-6:15PM- Work on wrapping everything up from the week at work
6:15-6:45PM- Drive home
6:45- 7:15PM- Eat dinner
7:20-7:45PM- Take Tyson for a walk
7:45-8:20PM- Play on my phone
8:20-8:45PM- Write blog
8:45-9:00PM- Work on laundry
9:00PM-??- Watch TV
??PM- Go to bed

Day 283- All About Music

Since my challenge today involves music I thought I would share a song that I love right now. It is called Let Her Go by Passenger. When you actually listen to the song and read the lyrics it's not the happiest song. When I hear it though, I hear the story of someone who didn't realize what they had until it was gone. It reminds me to appreciate what I have when I have it. Plus I really like the singers voice and think the melody is really calming. I can picture this song being in the trailer for a romantic "chick flick" type of movie. Enjoy!

Day 283- A Challenge A Day

Bands I Have Seen Live

** I'm sure I have missed some people, but this is most of them**

3OH!3

A Day To Remember

Acceptance

The Academy Is...

All Time Low

Avril Lavigne

The All-American Rejects

Anberlin

The Audition

The Band Perry

Boys Like Girls

Brantley Gilbert

The Cab

Cartel

Cash Cash

Casadee Pope

Chidos

Cobra Starship

Colbie Caillat

Cute Is What We Aim For

Darius Rucker

Death Cab For cutie

Demi Lovato

Dierks Bently

The Early november

Ed Sheeran

Ellie Goulding

Every Avenue

Every Time I Die

Fall Out Boy

Florida Georgia Line

Forever The Sickest Kid

From First To Last

Gavin Degraw

Good Charlotte

Gym Class Heroes

Hellogoodbye

Hey Monday

Hidden In Plain View

Hit THe Lights

Jack Johnson

Jason Derulo

Jennifer Lopez

Jimmy Eat World

The Jonas Brothers

Katy Perry

Ke$ha

Lady Antebellum

Letter Kills

Luke Bryan

The Maine

Matchbook Romance

Mayday Parade

Metro Station

The Morning Light

Motion City Soundtrack

My American Heart

Needtobreathe

Nevershoutnever

New Boyz

Nicki Minaj

*Nsync

Paramore

Phil Wickham

Pink

Pitbull

Rascal Flatts

Rihanna

A Rocket To The Moon

Saosin

Sisqo

Saves The Day

Say Anything

Selena Gomez

Senses Fail

Set Your Goals

Simple Plan

Sing It Loud

Story Of The Year

A Static lullaby

Story Of The Year

Sugarcult

T-Pain

Taking Back Sunday

Taylor Swift

This Century

Tim Mcgraw

Underoath

The Used

We The Kings

Yellowcard

Day 282- Practice What You Preach

It is so easy for me to sit here and give all the advice in the world, but it is another thing to be able to take my own advice. The last few days my anxiety has definitely been higher than normal. Not high like it was last year, but definitely higher than what has been the norm for me the last few months. Instead of taking my own advice and doing things that I know have worked for me in the past, I have fallen back into old patterns.

I think because I have been doing so well lately I got discouraged easily when anxiety feelings resurfaced. Now I knew going into the winter season, specifically December and January, would be tough. Last year this time was rough for me so those memories are still fresh. I also know the winter season is tough because I like to be outside, go to the beach, and seeming to always have something to do. I am mindful on what the causes could be and most likely are. So why when I already know this am I being hard on myself?

For me, the thing I hate the most about my anxiety is the way it makes me feel physically. I hate feeling nausea and having that edgy feeling that only those who have experienced it know what I'm talking about. With me feeling that the last week, only mildly, I am already going into my catastrophic thinking that is my downfall when it comes to my anxiety. I have already thought, "Here we go again," " I guess I will never get over this," " This is will be my whole life kind of thing," "Does this mean they will have to increase my medicine," and " What if more medicine will bring on side effects?"

All these thoughts and worries will send me down the pathways I don't want to take. So the best advice I can give myself is to accept that right now I have some anxious worries and feelings, both mentally and physically. Ways that have worked for me in the past to change those pathways are writing out the things I KNOW and that are my truths; spending time with my family and closest friends; doing something creative; getting more involved with reading my Bible and church;  doing physical activity;  doing things on my love list and bucket list; and accepting and understanding my anxiety.

By getting back into these habits I can make sure my anxiety does not get back to the level it was once at. Instead of being the advice giver, I need to take be an advice giver. It is time from me to get back to practicing what I preach.

Day 282- A Challenge A Day

Favorite Movie: Pitch Perfect

Favorite TV Show: The Ellen Degeneres Show

Favorite Band: Taylor Swift (I know she is not a band, but she plays with one on stage)

Favorite Food: Pasta

   

Day 281-Please Rise

This week I have jury duty. Tomorrow I have to go and see if I end up getting picked. I guess I'll be doing some writing while I wait.

Day 281- A Challange A Day

Today my challenge is to talk about my pets, past and present. Growing up I only ever had fish. The only one I remember was Slugger, the sucker fish that would suck up all the gross stuff floating around in the tank. The only other pet I've ever had is Tyson, and I think you've heard a lot about him already. Instead just enjoy a new picture of him and I.

Day 280-Happiest Place on Earth

Going straight for the end because the place I'm posting about is one of my favorites in the world.


Day 280- A Challenge A Day

Place I have been so many times I've lost count. It's been just over 6 months since I was last there and I miss it so much!!

Day 279- Happiness Within

I'm sure you may have noticed that lately I have been talking about a book a lot by M.J. Ryan called Attitudes of Gratitude: How to Give and Receive Joy Every Day of Your Life. I've been reading it quite a bit lately and have been finding so much good stuff in it that I feel the need to share. I want to share something I read today. As soon as I read it I knew I had heard it before, but never in this way. Reading it in this way made it seem a little bit more powerful and true. It offered advice and something we can all try as well.

" If we expect someone or something outside ourselves to make us happy, we lose our power. The truth is we can't count on anything except our ability to choose how to respond to what happens to use. One way to counteract the tendency to look outside ourselves for happiness is to practice No Matter What. Before you go into a situation ask yourself, 'What is it that I can learn, accomplish, or experience here, no matter what happens?'"


Day 279- A Challenge A Day

10 Likes
1.) The Beach
2.) Country Music
3.) My Family and Friends
4.) Cuddling with Tyson
5.) Ellen Degeneres
6.) Justin Timberlake
7.) Taylor Swift
8.) In 'N'Out Cheeseburgers
9.) Fashion
10.) Pasta

10 Dislikes 
1.) Wind
2.) Meatloaf
3.) Pork chops
4.) Scary Movies/TV Shows
5.) Snakes
6.) Basketball
7.) L.A. Kings
8.) Airplane Rides
9.) Traffic
10.) Sushi

Note: It was a lot harder for me to come up with my dislikes than likes. Maybe I'm becoming more positive!?

Day 278- Grateful For...

In one of my earlier posts I mentioned how I would write a list at night of all the things I accomplished that day. I still do something similar at work, as I have a checklist of tasks for each day that I check off as I go throughout my day. It has been awhile though since I have actually done a list at night though. I was reading a book today that mentioned a good way to learn to be a more positive person is the write a list each day of 10 things I am grateful for. That way you become more aware of all the good things in your life each day. I noticed this was similar to the accomplishment list I use to do.

I wish I would have read about the being grateful list versus the accomplishments list when I was in some of the harder days of my depression. A lot of times when you are in a depression it is hard to notice any kind of good in your life or be grateful for anything. You become so consumed with all the bad going on that it becomes your main focus. Being negative simply becomes a way of life. It is almost second nature. It is nearly impossible to see any good.

I know as a tool to not allowing myself to get that way again and continue to work on becoming a more positive person I need to focus on the good. Even if it is something so little, it still counts. I probably won't write it out, but I want to start every night before I go to sleep to think of everything I'm grateful that happened that day.  That way my last thoughts before sleep are positive ones.

Today I am grateful for: A dog that slept it, the warm sunny weather of today, a clean room and house, that my mom offered to make me a breakfast sandwich this morning, quiet time this afternoon to read my new magazine, a phone call with a friend, a safe trip of bringing visitors home, pasta for lunch, a special note from a friend, a hug from my dad.


Day 278- A Challenge A Day

I'm finding out that my friends and I really don't take that many photos together. But here is one from this past Summer with 3 out of 4 of my best girlfriends and I.

Day 277- Cooking Night

Tonight I am heading over to a friend's house and will be cooking dinner and watching a movie with a few girlfriends. It's so interesting to see how much I have grown up in the last few years. A couple years ago my idea of a fun Friday night was leaving at 10:30 P.M., going to a friends house who was having a party, playing drinking games with friends, and getting home after 2:00 A.M. sometime.  Now my idea of a fun Friday night is early dinner, a movie, and home and in bed no later than 12:00 A.M. I guess that's all apart of growing up.


Day 277- A Challenge A Day

My current relationship status is single. For the longest time myself and my closest friends were all single so I felt no need to be with anyone because all my friends being together was enough. Also, with all the things I was going through the last few years a relationship was the last thing on my mind. I knew until I got myself in a stable place where I wasn't so focused on me, I would be a terrible person to be in a relationship with. Now, I have a few friends in relationships, and I'm finally in a good place where I would be open to being in one. So I guess we will see when Mr. Right comes along.

Day 276- Revisiting

When I finally decided to do my end of post challenge I began looking for 30 day challenges online. There were a ton. I finally decided on the one I did because some of the challenges reminded me of things I learned in therapy. Even though I am in a much better place, I figured it doesn't hurt to revisit things that had a positive impact on my progress. I've changed a lot so it will be interesting to see how my answers do as well.


Day 276- A Challenge A Day

1.) In the picture above I am hiding behind the first laptop I actually myself bought.
2.) Up until a few weeks before I was born my middle name was going to actually be my first name.
3.) My first concert was when I was 15 years-old and I saw *Nsync.
4.) I lay my clothes out every night for work the next day.
5.) I do not have a twitter account.
6.) I don't care for chocolate.
7.) I have read both the Harry Potter series and the Twilight series twice.
8.) I had extremely blonde hair up until I was about 12 years-old when it started turning brown.
9.) If I had could have been born with any skill it would have been the ability to dance so that I could have had a career as a backup dancer.
10.) I hate having a lot of sheets on my bed so I only sleep with a bottom sheet and a comforter.

Day 275- Happy New Year!!

Today is the official start of the new year. I'm excited for the new possibilities that this day can bring, but I am also sad to see 2013 go. It wasn't a perfect year, but it was a year full of changes and the best I have had in awhile. I started a new job, I got a new car, I paid off a few bills, I grew closer to family and friends, I started this blog, I checked items off on my bucket list, and I found new activities that make me happy.

The biggest change was finally seeking help for my anxiety and depression. I even overcame a fear and realized that I needed to start taking medication in order to help deal with it. It was worth it though because I feel more mentally stable than I have in what feels like forever. I was able to open up to not only with myself but the world. By taking the leap of faith and finding my inner strength I was able to work on myself and make the effort to grow and change. There is still work to be done, but that's life. We are suppose to continually grow and change.

A lot of other people see the New Year as a chance to change, hence New Year Resolutions are made. The only probably is that the majority of people don't keep the resolutions they make and they get down on themselves. So instead I am going to make wishes for myself. That way if they don't come true it was only a wish. I can make those as often as I like.

My wishes are:
1.) That I start to make flossing a routine. I don't do it every day and I know I should.
2.) That I get in enough shape to finally run a 5K this year.
3.) That I not only add to my bucket list, that I cross more things off.
4.) That I keep growing and continue to keep getting healthier both mentally and physically.

Day 275- A Challenge A Day

Now, with the start of the new month, and new year,  I will be ending each posts in a new way. This month I'm going to do a 30 day challenge. I realize that January has 31 days, so today I will post a photo of what each challenge will be so you can see what this month is all about and then start tomorrow.