9.30.2007

Oh September

Do you remember dancing in September? I hope so because it's almost over. October is almost here and even though it doesn't feel like autumn I'm enjoying every minute of it because it's birthday month. If you know me well enough you should know that I love birthdays. Not just mine per say, but everyone's. It's a day to celebrate you! I know that might sound a little conceited but how many of those days out of the chaotic year do you really get to take for granted?

Let's go back to where I said it doesn't feel like autumn. For a Florida girl it's perfectly fine, this is my winter. However for the northerners it's been a wild autumn thus far. By the end of the week it's going to reach back into the 80's. Normal for me, unusual for them.

I was able to catch up on a lot of things around the apartment today. Like cleaning. It was pretty dusty.

9.28.2007

Across the Universe....

...Is such a great movie. It's more than great, it's a religious experience. Not like the ones like Star Wars or Lord of the Rings, but like Saving Private Ryan or even Forest Gump. It's like your reminiscing on America's history. Our own history. Real history. Maybe a few acid trips here and there but real.

I am not going to go into full detail about how the movie is portrayed because you should go see it for yourselves. However, if you are truly infatuated with the Beatles, like myself it will definitely take your breath away.

The songs truly go along with history during the Vietnam war. Protesters, and riots. Drafting and love. To even start to imagine this is what my parents did or had to live through is beyond my comprehension. Seeing my mom ride her motorcycle (yes, she actually had one) to D.C. every weekend to protest "something" is unbelievable. Actually, it's quite entertaining to even think about if any of you really know my mother.

Those two decades were such a crucial time in America's history. It gave us something to be thankful for, or dread if you were drafted which was every mother's worst nightmare. I try to compare it to the war that is going on currently, but it is on a totally different level. Yes, our current war is putting our generation through hell, and will definitely go into the history books for our children to read about just like we do from our parent's generation. But back then I truly feel people were more passionate by trying to spread love, and happiness. They were mostly hippies, but they did have a good point. Once again, Lennon is the best one that can describe it:

Imagine there's no Heaven
It's easy if you try
No hell below us
Above us only sky
Imagine all the people
Living for today

Imagine there's no countries
It isn't hard to do
Nothing to kill or die for
And no religion too
Imagine all the people
Living life in peace

You may say that I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will be as one

Imagine no possessions
I wonder if you can
No need for greed or hunger
A brotherhood of man
Imagine all the people
Sharing all the world

You may say that I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will live as one

9.27.2007

Let It Be

I received my first paycheck from Macy*s via direct deposit last Friday so I went to pick up the stub on Saturday during my shift. Later on Jim and I sat down and looked at all the taxes that came out of my gross pay. I realized that most of it is going to the war in Iraq. Don't get me wrong, I support my president, and country wholeheartedly and I'm proud for living in a free nation in which my forefathers fought for, and I'm not trying to sound like I need a Kleenex to wipe my nose bleed, but a good chunk of my paycheck as well as everyone else's is going towards this never-ending war. I sincerely believe in all hopes for our president, but we're getting stuck paying for every decision that is made. I know this has been going on since the beginning of time, (or at least when we established minimum wage), but let's be rational about the future. Legendary J.L. once sang:

And when the broken hearted people living in the world agree,
there will be an answer, let it be.
For though they may be parted there is still a chance that they will see,
there will be an answer. let it be.

I fully understand that we're never going to agree unconditionally with other nations, but for God's sakes let's come to a peace making process before we all go into debt, (not that we already are).

On that note, I'm still reminiscing about the relaxing weekend. I worked Saturday, but afterwards the Harty's had a party that we attended. After a couple of glasses of wine, and a Smirnoff, and then another few glasses of wine, the party was in full gear. We decided to go walk down to the beach. I can not stress enough how blessed we all are to live 2 blocks from the ocean. The weather was content, and the water was mild. By 1am I said my good nights walked back home. Sunday was a relaxing day as well. Jim taught Aaron and refreshed me on the rules of the "Keel family card game." It was peaceful just like Lennon.

When I find myself in times of trouble, mother Mary comes to me,
speaking words of wisdom, let it be.
And in my hour of darkness she is standing right in front of me,
speaking words of wisdom, let it be.

9.21.2007

It Takes Two

One of my favorite things to see are old couples in love. They're so cute together and you know that they have been through rough times throughout history. I was sitting at my desk yesterday at work and spotted an old couple walking through the homestore holding hands together. It just reminds me of the relationship my grandparents had. Granny was 19, and Grandaddy was 29 when they got married during World War 2. After the ceremony Grandaddy went to war for 2 years. Obviously they didn't have e-mail or any high tech communication we're spoiled with these days to keep in touch. If they did, Granny would be able to use it. Unfortunately Grandaddy passed away in 1991 but has always been an inspiration to me. Their relationship has always encouraged me through my marriage.

While I was watching this old couple shop together it made me think of Jim and I in 50 years and what we have to accomplish as well as endure. Finances, family, work, home, everything. I'm really looking forward to it.

9.19.2007

4 Things

This one is a bit different from the rest. Four things
about me that you may or may not have known in no particular
order.

Four jobs I have had in my life:
1. Babysitter/nanny
2. Cutco telemarketer
3. Sales Associate
4. Dining server


Four movies I've watched more than once:
(actually more times than I can count)
1. Devil's Advocate
2. The Notebook
3. The Prestige
4. Bruce Almighty


Four places I have lived
1. Orlando, FL
2. Wenham, MA
3. Beverly, MA
4. 8 Bow St.

Four T.V. Shows that I watch:
1. What Not To Wear
2. The Office
3. CSI: NY
4. Shark

Four favorite past time activities:
1. The beach
2. Drinking wine with friends
3. Traveling
4. Going on dates with my husband.

Four places I have been:
1. Europe
2. Antigua
2. Disney World
4. L.A., CA

People who e-mail me (regularly):
1. My mom
2. PEOPLE Magazine
3. Facebook (to notify me on messages).
4. Clothing stores haha

Four of my favorite foods:
1. Anything Italian
2. Fresh salads
3. Raw cookie dough
4. Yogurt

Four places I would rather be right now:
1. The beach
2. Europe
3. On the Lost Isalnd
4. NYC

Four friends I think will respond:
1. Jim
2. Kimberly
3. Kristi
4. Jim

Four things I am looking forward to this year:

1. The Christmas Season.
2. Celebrating my 1st wedding anniversary.
3. Spending time with my nephew.
4. Seeing family.

9.16.2007

Changes

The weather is just starting to change. The leaves are slowly changing colors, and the temperature is dropping just enough for us to be under a "frost advisory." It's going to be chilly when Alissa and I run in tomorrow morning.

This weekend has been crazy. Since I didn't work on Friday, and did work on Saturday my weekend has been a little jumbled together. Jim has been gone. He went up to VT to visit his grandfather and of course our nephew. He'll be back Tuesday, but I miss him. Aaron just left to do an awake overnight shift so I'm the only one in the apartment tonight. I didn't realize all the little creeks the walls and ceiling make until there's no one to talk to. I also didn't realize that we can faintly hear the T blowing its horn a good 5 minutes from here unless you really just listen. Amanda came over tonight. We cooked pasta, had wine, and caught up on some girl time while playing Trivial Pursuit (which I won) with Aaron. It was fun to see her again. She just moved from Lynn to Salem which is literally just over the bridge. So I'll be seeing her more and more from now on!

I don't have a doubt tomorrow isn't going to be a Manic Monday. That's why I love my job so much!

9.14.2007

Jim


Would he walk on water?
Would he run through fire?
Would he stand before you
When it's down to the wire?
Would he give his life up
To be all he can?
Is that how you measure a man?


9.13.2007

Macy's

Work was great today. I had happy brides today which makes me happy! I have concluded, (not that I didn't already think so), that it is fun being a wedding planner.

9.12.2007

The Aftermath of 9/11

I won't disagree with anyone that says September 11th was a horrible day 6 years ago, however, September 12th is more tragic for me. You see, 6 years ago, because of 9/11, one of the dearest, selfless, loved people you'll ever meet tragically died.

He was our music minister at the church I grew up in. The scenario was Craig's wife's father was having surgery in North Carolina during the attacks. Because airlines were closed, Craig decided to drive both of them to North Carolina. It was rainy. It was slippery. All of a sudden a semi hit the driver's side of their car, and Craig died immediately. You always know when something is wrong when you're mom gets a phone call, answers it, and suddenly drops the phone and starts crying instantaneously.

Having my mom sit me down on the couch and telling me the news you realize you don't know when you're time is up. It might be a scary thought, but think about it. Who wants to live here- hell on earth when they can live eternally without any worries about finances, relationships, images, or reputations with God. I truly believe God takes us when we're ready. We might not seem, or feel ready, but to him we are. The week before my grandfather passed away in 1992, all he could talk about was how lovely it was going to be to live in heaven. A week later is was gone, still very much loved and not forgotten.

Six years later Craig is still remembered as a person who loved God, and lived for him. He gave wisdom to share the word of God all around. He was such a great example to live by because of his devotion for God. September 12th Craig got his 1st row seat in heaven.

The funeral was memorable. Even though I cried through the whole thing, I knew I was so happy for him. At the end, we watched a clip of him singing Old Rugged Cross. I still get goosebumps from reminiscing about it.

So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross,
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it some day for a crown.

9.11.2007

9/11


I hope everyone took a moment to say a prayer for all the families of victims that were in the terrorists attack 6 years ago. I remember exactly where I was during that time.

The song below was playing on my Nano when I got in the car this morning.

9.08.2007

It's Been a Hard Day's Night

This weekend has been a whirlwind of events, and the chaos is only beginning. Yesterday was my last day at Lane. WOOHOO. Don't get my wrong, I love my co-workers, most of them depending on the day, but waking up at 5.30am really sucks. If I could give any advice to someone who is working in a professional environment, it would be always leave on a positive note. My bosses told me I could come back anytime. If I needed a letter of recommendation, they would write one with bells ringing. That made me feel a sense of accomplishment. I realized I did my job well, and made a huge impact on the people I worked with.

Last night Jim and I went to Sharon's going away party in Newton. We celebrated by drinking margaritas. I was so tired when I got home, I could only watch one episode of Star Trek with Aaron. Maybe it's because there was 7 different types of liquors in my margarita. They don't call it "Heaven on Earth Margarita" for nothing.

Tonight once again it's party time! Heather and Matt are having...well, let's just call it a housewarming party because if I start to explain their "uniqueness" it will come out really dysfunctional. On that note, I should go make my beenie weenies that I'm bringing. Word to the wise: when googling "beenie weenies" make sure you emphasize it's a recipe. That's all I'm saying.

My in-laws coming tomorrow. I will get to see my nephew for the 2nd time. It's still really surreal for me to think of myself as an aunt. Not that I ever imagined I would be a mother before being an aunt. It's just one of the joys you are truly blessed with in life.

I start Macy's on Monday! I'm pretty psyched. I'm listening to a great song. It's actually on the web from my hometown Christan radio station in Orlando. These are the Days of Elijah So uplifting and reassuring. It's the perfect time to hear this song because of all the many changes that are going on in my life, for the better too (for once). I know my God is sovereign, and has a wonderful plan for my life. Which is the cherry on a top of a sundae.

Behold He comes riding on the clouds,
Shining like the sun at the trumpet call;
Lift your voice, it's the year of jubilee,
And out of Zion's hill salvation comes.

9.04.2007

Girly Confessions

1. Is it cute when guys kiss you on your forehead? It's sweet.

2. A big poofy dress or a short party dress? Party dress!

3. What would you do if you received a long love letter? Read it, smile, and think about the guy writing it.

4. Group dates or single dates? Both

5. Do you hate it when guys act different around their friends? yeah... but its fun to call them out about it later

6. Are diamonds a girl’s best friend? Yes!

7. Is your hair up or down today? It's in a sloppy bun.

8. Do you straighten your hair? Most of the time.

9. Favorite mascara? tEstee Lauder long lash.

10. Do you get your nails done? Sporadically.

11. Small or large purses? Both. Whatever matches the outfit.

12. In your purse, what are your must haves? Phones, nano, lip gloss, wallet.

13. Jeans or sweats? Tough one. Jeans.

14. Do you wear clothes/shoes/jewelry that’s uncomfortable? Hello, I'm a girl. Looking fabulous comes at a cost.

15. Do you text message a lot? If I don't want to talk on the phone and just make it really quick.

16. What would you do if you got pregnant? Be happy.

17. What’s your favorite color? Any kind of blue.

18. Heels or flats? As long as they're cute...

19. Did you ever cry during a romantic movie? I must say I have.

20. Would you ever leave the house without make-up on? Yes.

21. Walmart or Target? Target.

22. Do you wear collared shirts? I wore one yesterday, so yes.

23. Do you like preppy boys? I like boys.

24. Do you think lip gloss is the best!? It's God's gift to women.

25. Do you own any big sunglasses? Oh yes!

26. How long does it take you to get ready in the morning? About 45 min.

27. Do you like to wear band-aids? No.

28. Do you like skater boys? Nah.

29. Do you often wish there was something you could change? Sure, a lot of things.

30. Gold or silver? White gold.

31. Do you like to receive flowers? Definitely if it's "just because."

32. Do you like surfer boys? Oh dear.

33. Do you dress up for the holidays? Yes! Another reason to dress up!

34. Do you like to wear dresses? I like jeans.

35. On a scale of 1-10 how much do guys confuse you? 7.56432

36. In the last 48 hours have you hung out with a guy? A couple haha.

37. Would you date a guy shorter than you? I'm really short...

38. Do you like to hold hands? Yes.

39. What is the youngest you would date? 17

40. What is the oldest you would date? I don't date anyone besides my husband.

41. What do you notice when you first meet a guy? Eyes.

42. Is it hott when guys sweat? Depending on the reason ;)

43. What is the best feature in a guy? Generosity.

44. Do you like making eye contact? Yes.
Just to see if they're confident enough to reciprocate.

46. Would you kill for chocolate? I love chocolate.

47. Did you ever spend all day/night getting pretty for a guy? Maybe.

48. On a scale from 1-10 how fun is shopping? 20.

49. Do you freak out if you miss your favorite show? I missed a show last night, but I'm coping.

50. Do you yell a lot? No.

51. Do you wear sweat pants/pajamas to school/work? No.

52. Have you ever dressed unlike yourself to impress a guy? Working in the dining services you don't dress to impress.

53. Do you write a lot of mushy love poems? Nah. He can do that.

54. What makeup could you not live w/ out? Gloss.

55. Do you fall in love easily? Yup.

56. Do you have cramps? At the moment? No. Where was this questions last week?!

57. Do you think you have the bestest friend ever? If "bestest" was a word, then yes, of course.

Measure of a Man.

Would he walk on water?
Would he run through fire?
Would he stand before you
When it's down to the wire?
Would he give his life up
To be all he can?
Is that how you measure a man?

These were my questions throughout the day. Just thoughts floating through my mind.