H1N1

Yup, you read the title right, I have H1N1, other wise known as the Swine Flu. Fun times! The kiddos I nanny came down with 102 fevers on Wednesday morning and they went up to 103/104 and was complaining that their ears hurt. So their mom called the Dr. to get them in and they come out with a flu diagnosis, a regular flu diagnosis (which is not in season now). So no worries to me because I had both flu vaccinations about 1-2 months ago...WRONG!!!! Apparently, it takes 8 weeks for full immunity for the swine flu and guess what?! I had mine exactly 6 weeks ago! Really??? Only this would happen to me! I thought the kids had both of their flu shots, however, I was wrong again, they didn't. Good news is, I have a mild case and after 4 doses of anti viral medication, I am feeling almost as good as new. I don't feel like I have a cold or anything, I just feel run down and the Dr. said it could take up to 10 days to get all my strength back, ugh. So I have been resting for the past 2 days. Its has been lonely, since no one wants to get the swine flu and I have been semi quarantined for the past 2 days. My roommate, Jill, was great though and brought me a bunch of snacks to get me though these 2 days!! Thanks Jill :) I can't wait to rejoin the land of the living tomorrow!!!!

Happy Thanksgiving

I know I wasn't going to blog again until the New Year but I couldn't let the opportunity pass to share how thankful I am for so many things this year. The beginning of the year was difficult with 2 family members and my best friend passing on and continuing their journey with God.
But the hard times typically show people just how fortunate they are and open their eyes to their many blessings.

1. The number one thing I am thankful for is my Faith in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I have not always been the most devout Christian but He has always been with me. The death of my friend, Chris, truly tested my faith. I was ANGRY, I felt betrayed, how could he take someone that meant so much to me? But after a few months, I realized why. Chris did what he needed to do here on Earth. It was his time to make his journey to heaven. He is now my angel watching over me and I thank God everyday for blessing me with a great friend that I found in Chris. Over the past few weeks, I have renewed my Faith and I feel that as long as I keep God in my life, I will achieve great things.

2. My parents! I have the most understanding, loving and trusting parents who taught me to love unconditionally. I am who I am today because of the values they have installed in me. They have always been by my side. They have supported me in every decision I have made and never said "I told you so" if something didn't work out for me. They instilled confidence in me and told me that I could do anything I put my mind to and I have. I only hope that I have made them proud.

3. My sister-she took me under her wing when I moved here in 2004. I never would have moved here if she wasn't here to help me through it. She loves me for me and is always there for me. I am blessed to have such a great relationship with my big sister! I wouldn't trade her for anything in the world:)

4. My friends-They have always been by my side though thick and thin. They can always make smile even when things seem at their worst. I know who my true friends are because they continually applaud me for my accomplishments. Even if we don't talk for a few weeks, months or even years, things pick up where it left off, like nothing has changed. If it wasn't for my friends, I also wouldn't be where I am today.

5-My nieces-I never thought I could love anyone as much as I love them. They have opened my heart and taught me to live and enjoy life. I have cherished every moment spent with them and I have been blessed to watch them grow into gorgeous young ladies. My only hope is that they continue to love me as much as I love them. I will always be there for them. They are a part of who I am.

6-My kitties, Molly and Twix-They love me no matter what. I could have had the worst day and it is all erased when I walk in the door and see their snuggly faces. Even when Molly bites me at 6am because she is hungry or when Twix ruined my dining room table with his claws, I still love them and are very thankful they are a part of my family :)

7-My perseverance-There have been times in my life when I feel like I am at my lowest and don't know how I can go on. But somehow, I do. I know that I will do great things in my life and will do whatever it takes to achieve those dreams.

8-My ability to run-I am fortunate that I have been blessed with my running legs. Even today when I am nursing an injury, I am still thankful that my injury is temporary and my legs will continue to carry me through my life. Some people are not as fortunate.

9-A job-I have one and in this economy, that is a positive thing. Even though I am not doing what I want to do for the rest of my life, I am making a difference and helping a family in need. One day my opportunity will come to be a Health Educator and I will cherish that moment when it arrives. Until then, I will continue to be the best nanny I can be.

10-Last but certainly not least-Ashley. I have been 'seeing' (dating?) Ashley since October 9. Words cannot describe how thankful I am for him to be a part of my life. He makes me smile everyday. I am a better person with him in my life. I feel he brings out the best in me. I enjoy spending time with him and I can be myself around him. Even if things don't last, I am confident, he will always be an important part of my life.

So as Thanksgiving begins and passes- remember you should be thankful for everything in your life on a daily basis. We shouldn't use Thanksgiving as an excuse to say what we are thankful for.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING to my wonderful family and friends, love to you all!

Taking a break

I haven't felt like blogging much lately. Plus I don't feel like I have lots to talk about so I have decided to take a break from blogging for awhile. I plan on resuming my blog in 2010. Happy Holidays! Until 2010...

8 months

Its hard to believe that it has been 8 months since Chris died. I still feel like I am in the middle of a bad dream but I know I am not. My anger with God has subsided. I now understand that He has a plan and there was a reason Chris was taken from us. But of course I still miss Chris terribly and so much has been going on and I wish I could call and tell him. But Chris is and always will be in my heart. My life will never be the same without Chris in it but I do know that I will be all right. I am now left to cherish and smile at the memories.

On to happier things! I am in the midst of my 6th week of marathon training! These past 6 weeks have flown by and I hope the next 14 fly by even faster! My sister has decided to run the marathon with me and I am super excited to start running our long runs together and crossing the finish line in February! I still can't believe that I am doing this but it is on my bucket list and if you know me well, you know that I never give up on achieving my goals and this goal is no different. This Sunday is a 9 mile run and next week, the double digit long runs begin!!!!

Optimisim is overrated

So I didn't get the job and that is okay. It just wasn't meant to be. I know there is a job out there for me and it will come up soon. Hopefully sooner than later :) Have a great Halloween weekend :)

Feeling Optimistic

I am beginning to feel optimistic about the future. As most of you know, I finished my Master's in May and have yet to find a job. I did my internship with the NC Division of Public Health and they typically keep on their interns-this was the first year in 7 that they were not able to, FIGURES, right? I have that kind of luck. But I have been chugging along and applying to any and every job that I qualify for. Well I am finally having my FIRST face to face interview and I know I can rock this. I have a lot to offer and I know I would be a good assest to this company. With my confidence, I am sure to knock their socks off and I am doing everything necessary to make sure that happens.

On to other things...I am a very independent person but lately I feel like I want to finally settle down and share my life with someone, so I took a giant leap of faith and joined Match.com. I was a member in 2004 after I moved here since I didn't know many people and thought that was a great way to meet people. I should have known better than to try it again. I met 2 guys in 2004, one was nice and normal but there were no sparks. The other guy was CRAZY! He definitely had stalkerish tendencies, no thanks! Anyway, this time I didn't fare much better. I only went on one date and honestly, it went well but he was a little too stuck on himself for me. During the first date he asked me on a second date to go to a Canes game but then cancelled via email 4 hours before the game to CLEAN his house, what!?!? I thought I would be nice and give him a second chance but every time I talked to him, I felt nothing so I decided to email him and let him no it was over. For the record, I was going to call but I figured since he didn't have the decency to call me and cancel our date, he did not deserve a phone call from me, lol! His response to my email was that he agreed with me and was going to call and tell me that very night. Hehe, whatever, he did that to save his pretentious little face! I have the worst luck when it comes to dating, I swear I have a saying on my head that only weirdos can see. Eh, I know he is out there somewhere and I will find him, he might be right under my nose and I don't even know it! One thing is for sure-no more Match.com for me, I am finished with that!

Keep your fingers crossed for me for the interview next week!!! I want this job more than anything!

5 months

So its been 5 months since I graduated with my Master's degree and still no job! UGH! I have had someemails for companies interested, phone interviews and I have filled out questionnaires and still no job. But the good news is that I have an actual in person interview on October 21st and I am praying that this works out. I am so READY for a job in my field and I am afraid if I do not get one soon, I will no longer have my mental health. The kids wear on my nerves everyday and that just tells me that I need a job in my field, the sooner the better for everyone involved.

Believe me I will do whatever it takes to get this job I am interviewing for on the 21st...BRING IT ON!!!!

Busy!

Once again it has been awhile but I haven't felt like blogging and I have been super busy. My parents came last weekend for a visit and we were busy the entire weekend. We went and saw a double feature of Toy Story and Toy Story 2 in 3D. They happen to be 2 of my all time favorite Disney movies and I am looking forward to Toy Story 3 coming out next year. It was great watching the movie with my parents, sister and nieces! Then we went to a wine tasting at Regency Park which was nice. It was raining but the wine tasting was under cover so it wasn't too bad. I enjoyed it even though I am not a big wine drinker since wine doesn't agree with me most of the time, but I did enjoy a few glasses of white wine (and paid for it with a 2 day migraine). Then we went out to dinner at Sushi Thai-one of my favorite places to go for sushi! on Sunday, my sister, mom, Jordyn, Linsey and I went shopping. It was fun and the night was topped off with pizza for dinner. My parents stayed the night with me on Sunday and we just chilled out. They left Monday morning to head back to NY. I can't wait to see them again at Christmas!!

I also started training for my February marathon last week too. The first week was tough-it took me awhile to get back into my running groove and even 2 miles seemed like a struggle. Today was my longest run for the week at 4 miles and it was by far my best run this week. Hopefully each run will get better!! Only 19 weeks and 389 miles of training left until my marathon!!!

Mini Vacay

I had a 4 day weekend this past weekend and it was great! I worked Saturday at Padoodles for a few hours in the afternoon, stopped in and saw my sister and niece for a bit and came home and began work on my scrapbook for grad school! It only took me a few hours and it was finished! Sunday is a typical day for rest and that is exactly what I did!! It felt great to lay on the couch all day and do nothing! On Monday, I vacuumed my car out and washed it and of course a bird pooped on it within a few hours, oh well! Then I washed all the windows inside and out. And then my fall cleaning was complete! I had a great 4 days off and now I am back to work BUT my parents are here until Monday so I get to hang out with the family after work and all weekend...Woohoo!!!!!!

The last piece to the puzzle

You're looking at it! My diploma finally came!!! I have never been so excited to see that East Carolina envelope! I have been waiting for a few months for this! I finally feel as though graduate school is finished. As my friend Zach pointed out, I now have proof!!! I can't wait to get that baby framed and hung on my wall! Every time I look at my diploma, I feel this rush of accomplishment and its still sinking in that I have my Master's degree!!! Now if I could only find the job to go with it.......

Slacker

So I am a slacker and haven't blogged lately. Its not that I don't have stuff to blog about because I do, I just have been lazy. I had a great Labor Day weekend. Some friends and I rented a lake house in Badin Lake, NC. It was a great house and made you feel like you were at home! The weather was perfect! Not too hot during the day and a little cool at night! We cooked out on the grill, played some corn hole and just relaxed in the company of good friends! It was a perfect ending to a fan-tabulous summer!!!! Here's to a great fall!!!

PS-and of course it won't let me download any of my pictures so please check them out on Facebook or MySpace!

6 months

Its hard to believe that 6 months have passed (September 5 is the official 6 month mark) since I lost my best friend. In some ways, it seems like eternity but other ways it feel like just yesterday. Going to NY for the softball tournament was my first trip home since the funeral. Traveling with Jessica made it a little easier but it honestly didn't hit me until the morning of the tournament. My dad told me he still remembered the summer before when him, Chris and I went to Oswego to reminisce and then we went to the Oswego Races. I burst into tears as soon as he said it. My dad felt so bad but he had forgotten that it had been exactly a year before. It was hard at the softball field because as soon as Chris's mom saw me, she cried and of course I teared up too. After I got through that moment, I felt better. I could feel his presence with me all day and that gave me the peace I needed. But unfortunately, it really hit me that night at Keddy's. The last time I was there, I was with Chris and no matter what I did, I couldn't relax and have fun. So I left and I cried all the way home, went into the house and my dad held me as I cried. New York just isn't the same without Chris. If my parents ever move away from there, there will be nothing to take me back there.

Chris-you were my best friend and I will carry you in my heart always. The moment I found out you died, a piece of my heart died with you. I will never again take any of my relationships with family and friends for granted. Life is too short and your death confirmed that. I feel you with me on a daily basis and more times than none, I wish I could pick up the phone and call you but of course you will never answer again. You're in my heart always, I will love you forever.

New York

I am home from NY, hooray! I had a great time in NY but it is always great to be home and in your own bed :) I flew home with Chris's cousin, Jessica who happens to live 10 minutes from me, small world isn't it? We were originally supposed to be in NY at 11:30 but about half hour before boarding, it was announced that the plane had yet to leave DC so Jessica and I switched our flight to leave at 9 and have a short layover in LaGuardia instead. It was a super bumpy flight up and it was even worse from LaGuardia to Syracuse since were on on prop plane. It was very wobbly and I felt like throwing up the entire time. I was very relieved to land in Syracuse!!! My parents took me to lunch, we did a little shopping and met my grandma for dinner at Art's Jug for pizza, yummy!!! Then my friend Malinda came over to visit and catch up since we haven't seen each other since high school!!! I am so glad I was able to see her!!! Hopefully 10 years won't pass until I see her again:)

The first annual Christopher M. Sligar Memorial Softball Tournament was held on Saturday. It was an emotional but fun day. I cried a little in the beginning especially when I made Chris's mom cry, she was touched that I flew in from NC just for the tournament. It was evident that I need major help on my softball skills but I had an awesome team and I did the best I could! It was a great day overall. We went out to Keddy's (only 1 of 2 bars in Carthage) and hung out after the tournament. I didn't stay long because the last time I was there, I was with Chris and it was a very emotional night for me. Chris's mom and 2 sisters told me they loved me and I know that they will always be an important part of my life.

On Sunday, my aunt and uncle came up from Syracuse and we went out to lunch. It was a fun time catching up. Sunday night was spent eating a sub from Jreck's and lounging on the couch.
My trip home was very interesting and frustrating though. I only took a carry on bag because its such a hassle to check bags and I didn't want to pay the $15 fee. So as I am going through security, they tell me my bag needs to be searched. I am trying to figure out what could possible set the alarm off and come to find out, it was my contact solution. They said it was not allowed to be in my carry on even if I checked it at the gate since it contained peroxide. Apparently, peroxide is considered dangerous, who knew? I could have checked my bag but I figured it was easier to have them confiscate it. So then I get to the gate and they inform me that I am unable to gate check it because we are going on a bigger plane, so of course I had to check my bag anyway!! UGH!!!!!! At least I didn't have to pay the $15 fee. My bag probably would have fit but it would have been tight ad I didn't want to fight it, Oh well. Then I get into DC and I landed at an actual gate meaning I have to change terminals to catch my next flight (a commuter flight) and I had to go through security AGAIN!! How aggravating and I only had enough time to pee before I boarded so I missed lunch. I was never so happy to be back home in Raleigh!!! As much as I enjoy my time in NY, its always nice to come back to NC!

And of course, it won't let me upload photos but I will try again later. You can also look at all my photos on my facebook page!

Super busy!

I have been super busy and it doesn't look like my life will be slowing down much in the next few weeks! I met my parents and nieces in Richmond, VA last Tuesday night since were were going to Kings Dominion the following day. My nieces had been staying with my parents in NY for the previous week and asked if Gramma and Granpa could take them to Kings Dominion on the way back to NC and of course my parents said yes! SO I of course invited myself for a few reasons: 1-to have 3 adults and 3 children so each person would have a riding partner, 2-to take a few days off work and 3-because I love roller coasters! It was a perfect day: it was cloudy so it wasn't too hot and uncomfortable (was muggy though) and it didn't rain even though it looked like it might. All in all it was a great time and we will probably do it again next year!!

My parents, nieces and I at Kings Dominion

Kalli, Linsey and Jordyn with Sponge Bob!


My parents were supposed to stay until Sunday and we were planning to spend the whole day on the boat on Saturday but unfortunately, my dog was diagnosed with kidney disease a few months back and the vet called on Saturday morning and told my mom that Puddles was very sick so my parents decided it was best to head home. But I still went on the boat and it helped take my mind off of Puddles for a few hours.

Linsey dancing

Linsey, Kalli and their friend, Gray tubing

Jordyn and her friend, Malisse

By the way, Puddles is home and doing fine. The stress of not being at home caused him to be sick but he is doing great now!


Off to New York this weekend!

Fun Weekend!

I had a great weekend! It was definitely a busy one! On Friday night, Melissa and I went to the Cheap Trick/Poison/Def Leppard concert! It was a blast! We got there around 5:15 and tailgated and ate dinner with my sister, brother in law and 3 of their friends until about 6:45. Then we waited in line for about an hour to get in and it was super hot! Melissa and I had only been in our seat for maybe 10 minutes when Poison started playing! Bret Michaels is so hot!! He wore his famous cowboy hat for most of the concert. Melissa and I had great seats and a perfect view of the stage. Too bad they didn't allow cameras in there, otherwise I would have taken as many pictures of Bret Michaels as possible! On Saturday night, I got to hang out with my favorite almost 3 year old Ry and his baby sister Elle! Ry absolutely loves his little sister and she loves to smile at him. I had a great time with the 2 of them:)

Sunday was a day filled with chores:( I washed my car, cleaned the house and did lots of laundry to get ready for my trip to Kings Dominion on Tuesday night/Wednesday. I did take time out to go and watch Orphan with my friend Megan. It was definitely a freaky movie that kept you wondering what would happen next!

All in all I had a great weekend!

PS-I have good news too! I have a phone interview for a prevention specialist job on Wednesday!!!! I will be at Kings Dominion that day but I plan to go back to the car and talk since its only supposed to last about 20 minutes! Keep your fingers crossed for me:)

10 things

So I enjoy reading other peoples' blogs even if I don't know them. I came across one today who blogged about 10 truths about herself and thought it was interesting and thought I would do the same, so here it goes...

1. I am afraid that I will never find a health education/promotion job and I will be a nanny forever, not something I want.

2. I am very independent and worry that when (and if) I do settle down, it will too hard for me to adjust to life with another person.

3. I love kids but I fear if I am a nanny much longer, I will no longer want them.

4. My favorite food is homemade macaroni and cheese, I honestly could eat it every day and not get sick of it.

5. My nieces mean the world to me, I cherish every moment I spend with them because before I know, they will be all grown up :(

6. I try to hard to be perfect even though I know that perfection is unrealistic.

7. I am addicted to reality TV shows!!!

8. I enjoy watching the Weather Channel, I sometimes wonder if I should have been a meteorologist.

9. I am the type of person who needs at least 8.5 hours of sleep a night! If I don't get it, I get very cranky.

10. I love reading true life crime stories, its a weird fascination I know but I can't help it, they are addicting!!

I'm back, at least for the time being...

It has been awhile since I have blogged but it hasn't been because of time issues, I just haven't felt like blogging. I have been busy but not super busy, but that is about to change since August is a month full of travel, fun, family and friends!

Next weekend, my friend Melissa, my sister and brother in law and a few of their friends are going to see Def Leopard and Poison in concert!! Super excited for some tailgating and a night of good music with friends and family:) Then the next night I get to hang out with my favorite almost 3 year old, Ry and his new sister Elle for the night! I leave for Richmond, VA on August 11 to meet my parents and nieces there and we are going to King Dominion on the 12th for a day full of roller coasters and water rides! Then we will drive back to Raleigh that night and my parents will be here until the 16th. My dad wants to learn to water ski so we will be enjoying most of the visit on Harris Lake! On the 21st, I fly home to NY for the first annual Christopher Sligar Memorial Softball Tournament. Friends and family of Chris will participate in this event to raise money for a scholarship to be formed in Chris's name. I am looking forward to this because I will be able to see most of my friends at the same time and the tournament should be full of laughs since I am not a skilled softball player...LOL!!

Of course, this trip will be bittersweet because it is my first trip to NY since the funeral. I know it will be an emotional weekend with lots of laughing and crying but I know Chris would want me there. This was his type of get together, a bunch of people getting together to have fun and laugh. I have been doing okay lately, I haven't been crying as much but I go through days when it takes everything I have not to burst into tears. Sometimes I hear song that makes me tear up or think about a memory of us and I just lose it. Other times, I smile when I hear a song or remember a fun time. One thing I know for sure is that Chris is always with me. I know this sounds weird but sometimes I can feel him with me. I was having a hard time one night, I couldn't fall asleep because I kept thinking about him and I was crying. I asked God to give me a sign that Chris was okay and all of a sudden I felt an overwhelming sense of peace. At that moment, I knew Chris was okay and he was there with me. Its time like that that renews my faith and gives me the strength to go on with my life.

Until next time...

Lots going on!!

Last week was a busy week! I had my comprehensive exam for East Carolina and it was not as bad as I thought it would be. It was the exact same exam with 2 less questions and I was given a rubric this time so I know exactly how they will grade the exam. So I basically copied and pasted my answers from the first exam and made a few corrections. I made sure I answered all the questions that were asked and that was about it. My week was a lot less stressful than I anticipated it to be! I better pass this time! I really want to be 100% finished with grad school!!!
I also got my hair cut, oil changed and a gift for a baby shower that I have tomorrow night so I have been very productive. My pantry and freezer are full and laundry is done!!

I went out on Saturday night to celebrate my friend Susan's 30th birthday and I had a lot of fun. We went to Shaba Shabu for dinner and had our own VIP room, which was nice. Then we went out and hung out at Tir Na Nog. It was tons of fun and I can't wait to do it again!!

This week should be nice and hopefully relaxed. Ben, one of the 2 kids that I nanny for is in camp this week from 1-4 and that happens to be the time his sister Claire takes her nap so I will have very quiet afternoons this week. Today has been great and I look forward to the rest of the week!!

Busy, Busy!

July has been super busy for me with birthdays and baby showers and August will be even crazier. This was my first week back to work from my vacation and it was a super long and tiring week. The kids I nanny for were super cranky and really testing me this week, I was glad for it to be Friday, hopefully next week will be better even though my stress level will be a little high next week. On Monday, I will receive my comprehensive exam from ECU and attempt to pass it the second time even though I only missed passing by 2 tenths of a point! Yup you read right, 2 tenths of a point! It is a six essay question exam that focuses on the 4 main objectives of Health Education. There are three readers who grade you on the content and a average score is taken of each objective. You must receive a 3.0 on every objective in order to pass. Needless to say, I received a 3.4, 3.6, and 3.7 on three of them and a 2.8 on the last one. I am still angry about it and in my eyes I passed but I must pass this time and believe me I will!

July 4th

I hope everyone had an awesome July 4th!! Can you believe that I have lived here for over 5 years and last night was the first time I have ever went and watched the fireworks at the fairgrounds? Well, we didn't exactly go to the fairgrounds, we actually parked off 440 near the Hillsborough Street exit and watched them from there! We put a blanket on Anna's car and sat there and enjoyed the show:) Then we headed downtown to eat dinner at Tir Na Nog and enjoy company of friends. It was a great and relaxing night and a perfect end to my vacation:)

Anna and I waiting for the Fireworks to start

Anna and Todd

Fireworks-it was hard to get a good picture:(

Vacation

Sorry it has been awhile but I have been super busy!!! I have been on vacation since June 27 and I intended to get tons of stuff done at home but it definitely didn't work out that way!! I went and saw The Hangover with my friend Meda lat Sunday and it was hilarious! I have never laughed so hard in my life!!! Definitely a great movie!!! On Monday, the 29th, I picked my nieces up from school and hung out with them so my sister and brother in law could celebrate their 12 year wedding anniversary. The girls had swim practice so I took them to that and they requested that I make my famous homemade mac and cheese for them for dinner. I love every moment I spend with my nieces and when they tell me I am their fave aunt, it makes me realize that I am one lucky girl to have such wonderful and awesome nieces!! I helped my sis do some stuff at her house on Tuesday, went to Anna's to help her sis move out and then I went to my nieces' swim meet! It was very exciting to see them compete and have a huge smile on their face after each heat. I am so proud of them:) On Wednesday, I took them to Marbles Kids Museum in downtown Raleigh and they had a blast! Once again, I love spending time with them and its hard to believe how fast they are growing up! On Thursday, I met my friend Melissa at her house in North Raleigh and we headed to Wake Forest to try out the new Mellow Mushroom, it was yummy! I ate an entire calzone and it was worth every bite!! Then I headed to Padoodles to work for a few hours to help my sis out and it never hurts to have extra $$$!! I headed to the Farmer's Market today with Jill. There were lots of people there so we got what we wanted and headed home. I bought some blackberries which are good but not as good as the ones I pick at my parents' house in NY!! I also decided to buy a personal watermelon. Typically, I am not a huge watermelon fan but I decided to try something new. And the rest of the day, I have done nothing and it has felt great!! I took a nice 2 hour nap and now I am catching up on my blogging. If I continue to feel motivated, I might just do some stuff around the house. Not sure what my plans are for tomorrow but either way, I'll be happy doing what ever:)

So I go back to work Monday but it won't be so bad, I am on vacation again in 5 weeks when my parents come to visit:) That vacation will be full of family and fun. My nieces will be spending about 10 days with my parents in NY as they do every year and my parents are bringing them back in mid August-on their way back to NC they are taking the girls to Kings Dominion and I am going to to drive up and there and meet them. Then we will all head back to NC and hang out on the boat! My dad wants to learn to water ski!!! Can't wait:) Happy 4th everyone!!!!

In a Funk

I have been in such a funk lately and I don't know why. I have not been sleeping well and when I do finally fall asleep, I am wide awake at 6!!! I am a person who needs as least 8-9 hours of sleep per night to feel my best and I am definitely not getting that! Plus, my neighbor feels the need to talk VERY loudly on the phone in his kitchen on a nightly basis (my bedroom is on the other side of the wall in his kitchen). Last night, I could hear his TV in his living room! Good thing Jill wasn't home, she would have been mad if that had kept her up since her room is on the other side of his living room. I have never had this problem before with any previous neighbors. I really want to talk to him, the problem is he will talk my ear off about nothing and I don't have time to listen to someone talk just to hear them self talk.

I had an okay weekend. Friday night I went to Firebirds for dinner to celebrate Melissa's 30th birthday! The food was great and I had a blast catching up with friends I have not seen in awhile. Then we had dessert at Ben and Jerry's, it was yummy:) I worked at Padoodles on Saturday, wasn't busy it was a long day. Then I went and saw the Proposal last night with my friend Meda. It was sooo funny and it definitely got me out of my funk for a little bit. Of course, I am super tired again today because of lack of sleep, I am definitely going to be in bed early tonight and hopefully tomorrow I will feel like myself again! I hate being in a bad mood and not feeling like my normally chipper self... Good news is that I am on vacation next week, can't wait to relax and catch up on some sleep!!!!!

Lazy weekend

What a great lazy weekend! I cannot tell you the last time I had a free weekend. It was awesome! After work on Friday, I went shopping for my sis's birthday present (her birthday is today!) and came home with a new pair of sneakers! On Saturday, I stayed home all day and did stuff around the house. I even took a 3 hours nap on Saturday afternoon. Ahh bliss! Sunday was family day since we celebrated my sister's birthday last night with dinner and chocolate cake. We played badminton and I have to say it has been at least 11 years since I played last. We played it in gym and I was never very good but I always liked playing. I have definitely improved since then, maybe its because I am not as klutzy as I was then. Actually I still am a klutz but I am definitely more coordinated now. All in all it was a great weekend!

Next weekend is another busy one!!!

One Year Already

I can hardly believe that it has been a year since my friend, Brandon died. In some ways it seems like yesterday and other days it seems longer. The first year was hard and I thought a lot about his family especially around the holidays and his birthday and they are in my thoughts and prayers today as well. I am sure it has been a difficult day for them and I hope God gives them peace. The first year is always difficult and hopefully it will get easier as time goes on. When I went to see Zach over Memorial Day, it brought back memories of Brandon because that was the last time I saw him before the accident last year. At least now I can remember the good times without crying and I will cherish that always.

When I found out Brandon had died, all I kept thinking was unfair it was to lose a friend, that is not how its supposed to happen at my age. I never thought I would have to experience that again but unfortunately, 9 months later I did. It has only been 3 months since Chris died and I still feel like it was yesterday. I can now honestly say I know exactly how Zach felt when Brandon died, they were close like Chris and I were. Zach told me the first 6 months were the hardest for him and it has gotten easier, I hope he is right. I know my first trip to NY will be very difficult. I am not looking forward to that and I am putting it off as long as possible but I know I can't avoid it forever. Friends and family are having a memorial baseball tournament for him in August and I want to go but I don't know if my heart can handle it. But I will do it for Chris because that is what he would have done for me. I do believe that Chris is in Heaven and he is watching over me. I was really upset recently and asked him to give me a sign that he was ok and all of a sudden I could feel his presence in my room. I know it sounds crazy but it is true. I felt at peace as soon as I felt him and it made me realize he is okay and he is my angel watching over me from heaven.

To Brandon and Chris-I miss you guys but you're both always in my heart, see you again someday:)

Busy weekend

I had a 3 day weekend this past weekend and I enjoyed every minute of it. Jill and I went to the Farmer's Market and ate lunch at the Seafood Restaurant, it was very yummy! Then we wandered around and I bought lots of stuff; a quart of strawberries, quart of peaches, catnip plant, tomatoes, some candy and some note cards. I love walking around and browsing. On Friday night I went to Sushi Thai for dinner with Anna and Meda to do some catching up. I worked Saturday at Padoodles and then came home and started baking! With all the peaches I bought I decided to make Peach Cobbler. Now for those of you who know me well, I dislike cooked fruit, to me fruit should not be cooked! But Jill convinced that Peach Cobbler is awesome especially with vanilla ice cream so I took a chance and made some. WOW! Jill was right! It was heaven and it gets better tasting every time you reheat it up!

Peaches all cut up

Ready to go in the oven

Looks yummy, can't wait to dig in:)

Sunday was a lazy day. I took a nap, picked up around the house, replanted some flowers, made dinner and watched Two Weeks Notice! It was a great weekend and I can't wait to do it again next weekend!!

Pink

So I have been feeling very adventurous lately! I don't know why but I guess it has a lot to do with many different factors: being done with grad school, loss of one of my best friends and just knowing I can do whatever I want. So about a month ago, my friend Jill said she wanted to put purple highlights in her hair. I told her if she did it, I would put pink in mine. So I had forgot about it until Jill told me on Thursday night she was going to get her hair done the next morning and she was putting the purple highlights in. Coincidentally, I had a hair appointment for a haircut the next night as well. I told her that I would ask my hairdresser if she had time to do and it she did, I would do it. To make a long story short, I can home with pink highlights in my hair. She only put highlighted 3 strands on each side and did a peek a boo type thing so its not all over. I LOVE IT!!!

Of course, I saw my sis and brother in law yesterday and needless to say, their reaction wasn't very good. They basically told me it was irresponsible, immature and I wasn't being a good role model for my nieces. I told them that I did it for FUN and it will fade over time. And if I happen to get a job interview, my hairdresser said she would highlight it back to my normal blond. They did apologize later and told me they were only giving me a hard time because they loved me. Whatever. I can do a lot worse than dying my hair pink. I love it and that's all that matters:)

All blown out

Friday night

SERIOUSLY??????

I am so disappointed in myself right now. You would think I would be relieved that grad school is over but I am not. Whyyou ask?? I did not pass my Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) exam. Bummed is not even the right word. In order to become certified, you must answer 94/150 questions correctly and I answered 88/150 correctly. SERIOUSLY??? Only 6 points away??? Its so frustrating because honestly I would rather fail miserably because at least then I know I didn't know the material but being soclose makes me wonder if I could of rechecked my answers again (even though I checked over my answers at least 4 times) maybe I would have passed.? So I am able to take the exam again in October. So even though I am done with grad school, I will still have to study for this exam. I am still able to get a job without being certified, it is not required but it is looked upon highly. I figured what was the point of going to grad school and not becoming certified, its like going to med school and not becoming a doctor. So hopefully in October, I will be an official CHES and I better be, because this is an expensive exam to keep taking every 6 months!!!!!

Hopefully, my luck will improve and I can find a job and move forward with my life. Living in limbo is not fun:(

Random

I really don't have anything interesting to talk about. It has been nice not having grad school anymore but I still feel just as busy and wonder how I fit it in my schedule before? I have been working out more, usually taking a walk with the kids in the wagon for 30-60 minutes in the afternoon and still going to the gym for 30-45 minutes after work. I gained the Grad School 8 and have lost 2 so far! My pants are starting to get looser:) I have been doing more reading and watching TV (I am almost caught up with my DVR shows) as well as more cooking. Its nice to take my time cooking dinner and then taking my time eating rather than doing everything as quickly as possible. I went and saw Andy Dick at the comedy club last week. That was so much fun:) It was nice to just laugh and enjoy time with friends:) I am looking forward to my 3 day weekend and I am going to see Zach in Charlotte. It will be nice to relax all weekend and not have to come home and do homework:) The job hunt is going but nothing new is coming up so I am just enjoying my time being a nanny and soaking up as much sun as possible before I find a job. It will happen when its time and I am content for the time being.

Happy Memorial Day weekend:)

Beach, birthday and graduation

Wow, what a whirlwind it has been since my parents came!! They came in on Saturday, May 2nd. It was so great to see them. I stayed at my sister's house that night since we were leaving for the beach the next morning. The beach was awesome! We had great weather and it was so good just to lounge around, relax and spend time with my family!

Jordyn, Kalli and Linsey digging on the beach

Linsey and I

Mom, Dad and Trish

On Tuesday, it was a little cloudy so we went to Ripley's Aquarium. It was very interesting and we all had a blast. Then we went to Benjamin's Calabash, a all you can eat seafood buffet. It was fantastic!!!!! I ate so many steamed clams and crab legs! We were all stuffed but it was well worth it!!!

Jordyn, Kalli and Linsey in a bubble

Kalli, Jordyn and I in a 'fish tank'

Giant sea turtle

trying to pet the stingrays

We came home on Wednesday night. On Thursday, we all went to Bonefish Grill for dinner and then went to the Wizard of Oz, it was fantastic! Friday was a lounge day, my parents and I went shopping while everyone else went birthday shopping for me. We tailgated a bit and watched the Hurricanes kick major Bruin butt!

Saturday was the best day by far! Not only was it my 29th birthday but my graduation from graduate school! I had an awesome day and words cannot explain how great it feels to be done with school (hopefully forever, unless I decide to get my PhD) and be able to do more things for me and just to be lazy! I love it so far, now I just need to find myself a job in my field, everyone keep your fingers crossed for me!!!

on the way to graduation!!!!

I did it!!!!!

Mom, Dad and I

Trish, Rob and I

Linsey, Kalli, Jordyn and Aunt Sara

I had an awesome vacation and it was just what I needed! I can't wait to start scrap booking everything!!!

I'm DONE!!!!!!!!!

I am officially done with grad school! Wow, what a feeling and it still hasn't completely sunk in yet. I can't wait to have more free time to do stuff for me and to spend with my friends and family. No more working my schedule around school! I can actually enjoy my summer this year! I can't wait for my parents to get here on Saturday and then we are off to the beach for a few days!! I plan on laying on the beach, reading my book, catching some z's and of course hanging with the fam!!!

Almost time....

WOW! I only have a week left of my classes and internship! I can hardly believe that in 3 weeks, I will have my Master's degree, the first one in my family:) I am starting to get super excited and can hardly believe that its almost over. I can't wait to have free time again!!! I am bummed about my internship being over though. I really enjoyed my time there and I have learned so much! A few of the people are taking me out to lunch on Wednesday, I am not sure the details though because anytime I ask, the subject gets changed! Unfortunately, they do not have a job for me right now but hopefully by end of May or June, they should know what grants are coming in and what will be funded for the next year. They usually keep on their students but this year has been different because of the economy, but I am on top of their list and when some funding comes in, then I should have a job. Please keep your fingers crossed and say a prayer for me:) I am very ready to move on to the next chapter in my life and am very excited for the upcoming changes ahead. I am confident that things will start turning around for the better and I know that a job will be in my near future. I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason and everything will fall into place!

I am also excited that in 2 weeks, my parents will be here and we are going to the beach for 4 days, can't wait to lay on the beach and do NOTHING!!!!!

Long Weekend and Easter

I had a nice long 4 day weekend for Easter which was great since this week and next will be very stressful. I lounged around at home (doing school and internship stuff, of course), took a few naps, got my hair done, went out to dinner and spent time with the family. I spent all of Easter with my sister which was awesome. We had a great dinner, Easter egg hunt and some great family time. And now this week, its exams and assignments and finalizing everything for graduation! I see the light at the end of the tunnel!!!!!!!

The Verzera Clan-Rob, Trish, Linsey, Kalli and Jordyn

Jordyn climbed a tree to get an egg

Linsey wouldn't stop for a picture!!!

Kalli searching in the woods

3 weeks to go!!

I have 3 weeks left of school!!!! Its hard believe its almost time for graduation. I have so much going on in the next few weeks so that will hopefully make it go by fast. This week is pretty low key and I have a 4 day weekend, yay!!! BUT, next week, hell begins. On top of 2 more homework assignments and 2 quizzes, I have a comprehensive exam, 2 papers to finish plus I need to study for my CHES exam on the 25th. And of course you need to add in my internship and working! I know it will all be worth it in the end. 4 weeks from today I will be laying on the beach relaxing with my family:) Wish me luck!!!

Is March over yet???

Its been a long week and an even longer month. I feel as though all I have done since March 5 is cry and unfortunately I am not too far off the mark. I am done with death and funerals for a very long time. It all started with my great uncle's death on February 25 and ended with my sister's mother in law's funeral today. A whole month of death, funerals and crying and I am DONE!!!! I know everything happens for a reason and GOD takes you when its your time and only gives you what you can handle but I am at my breaking point. I cannot handle another death so close to me. It broke my heart today to see my nieces cry and tell me how much they miss their mom mom. My sister told me she hopes we aren't in the same position as my brother in law for a VERY long time and I agree. I have so many emotions right now and I am mentally and emotionally exhausted. I can not honestly tell you the last night I actually slept good, let alone the last day I didn't end my day sobbing uncontrollably. Listening to my brother in law speak about his mother today was heartbreaking, it took him a few minutes to gain his composure and that is when I lost it. I tried so hard to be strong for my sister and nieces but it was difficult. I am praying for strength to get me through this very difficult time. I know I will make it but it will take some time.

I do have some good news though...ONE MONTH from today is my very last day of grad school. I will have some things to finish up before graduation but then I will be officially done!!! Can you believe it?? I can't believe its almost here! I do have a very busy month ahead with exams, certifications and papers to finish but the light is getting brighter at the end of the tunnel!! Another good thing, one of my intern projects involves interviewing people participating in programs within the Childhood Obesity Prevention Demonstration Project. After the interviews, I have been writing success stories to show the legislature the success of this project since October 2008 and 2 of my stories are online. Follow the link below to read:

http://eatsmartmovemorenc.com/News/HotTopic.html?HotTopic=COPDPnews

PS-Thank you to all my friends who have supported me through this trying month! I love you guys!

Just what the Doctor ordered

Things are slowly getting back to normal. I am slowly moving on. I have been super busy with my internship and work so that has helped me keep my mind off of things. I know that Chris would want me to move on and live my life but honestly, I feel guilty having fun and being happy. I know this part of the grieving process but nonetheless it is how I feel. To make matters worse, my brother in law's mom has been battling pancreatic cancer and as of yesterday, she has 24-48 hours left to live. So I have been anxiously waiting for my phone to ring and hear the awful news.

On to some better things....As you may recall, my very good friend, Liza had a baby girl on March 2. I was supposed to take them dinner that first weekend after they came home but because of Chris's death, I was unable to. So I took them a baked ziti and garlic bread dinner last night. I was also able to hang out and catch up with Liza and the whole time I got to hold precious Hayley:) She is such a sweet baby! She had just woken up and she was looking around with her little hand propped up underneath her chin, so precious! She did start to doze off toward the end of our snuggle time. I did not want to give her up but I had a big date with Ry at 5!! I got at Ry's and he ran right into my arms! We had such an awesome night together! We played outside, made pizza together and had a little pizza picnic in the living room while we watched Toy Story. Then we shared a piece of cake and watched Finding Nemo. I gave him a bath and he had a blast putting bubbles in my hair! I have honestly not laughed that hard in awhile and it felt good! It was a great night! Just what I needed after my past 3 weeks:)

You will never be Forgotten

Sorry it has been awhile but unfortunately life has been crazy and not good crazy. On Thursday March 5, one of my very best friends, Chris Sligar passed away from a heart attack at age 30. I can't believe he's gone. I had to fly home to New York for the weekend so I could attend the calling hours and funeral. I had to say my goodbye. Getting off the plane in Syracuse was very hard because I knew why I was there, to bury one of my best friends. I never thought in a million years that I would have to go through again. As most of you may know, my friend Brandon was killed in a car accident last June. But this time, it felt much different. Even though Brandon was my friend, he was closer to my friend Zach so I felt pain but nothing like I felt when I heard Chris had died. Now I can honestly say that I know exactly how Zach felt. On Sunday, I went to the calling hours and there were at least 2 blocks of people waiting outside the funeral home to get in and even more waiting once inside. I was fortunate to see Chris's cousin, Tammy and she took me to Joe. I collapsed in his arms crying because at that moment, it hit me that Chris was gone. Joe was able to get me up to the front of line to the Sligar family. But first, I knelt in front of Chris in his casket and said my goodbye. I spoke with his parents and his 3 brothers and 2 sisters. Each one of them told me how much Chris had loved me. I even had a cousin whom I had never met ask if I was Sara, she knew who I was because of Chris talking about me. I didn't realize how much he talked about me or how much he loved me.

The funeral was the worst experience of my life. When they wheeled the casket in with his family behind him, I lost it. I did not want to say goodbye to him. The funeral was 2 hours long and I cried the entire time. My mom had to hold me up at some points, otherwise I would have collapsed into hysterics. It was even worse at the end seeing his casket put into the hearse. I was very thankful to have my parents by my side the entire time and good friends as well. There was a get together after the funeral and I went there with 2 friends and we ate and reminisced. His family even gave me some pictures to me us Chris and I. His mom told me before I left that she would love for me to come visit when I am home again, she does not want us to lose touch. I will be sure that never happens.

Chris-I know you are probably reading this up there in Heaven. I want you to know that you were one of my best friends and I loved you very much. I honestly can' t imagine my life without you. I feel as though you took a piece of my heart with you to Heaven. I want it back when its my turn!!!! My first trip to New York is going to be difficult, I can't imagine it right now, it still hurts too much. I did promise your parents that I would come visit and I will. I also told Elizabeth we could hang out too, even though it won't be the same. She took this the hardest and I am going to try my hardest to help her through this. I am going to do my best to keep your memory alive. I only wish you knew how much you were loved by so many people. I will never forget all of our fun times in Oswego or in Carthage. Thank you for being such a great friend and now I know I have an angel watching over me in Heaven. Rest in Peace my friend. "Remembering you will be easy, I will do it everyday, but the ache in my heart will never fade away". I love you and don't you forget it!!

Typical face of Chris Sligar

Old pic of Chris

Chris and I in Oswego-Aug.08