Oh Sandy...

It has been quite some time since my last blog and it's because of that b*tch Sandy!  What a crazy couple of weeks it has been.  I didn't suffer too much damage because of the storm, only losing power for about 10 days, but my sister and cousin did receive quite a blow.  I'm sure most people have seen the devastation that hit Seaside and they were only a couple of miles from there.  Their house was deemed condemned and they only had a couple of days to get all their stuff out.  Most of the stuff that was on their bottom floor had been destroyed, but luckily their upstairs, which was where the bedrooms were, were okay.

I spent my birthday, as well as that weekend, helping my sister get her stuff together.  We, along with a few of her friends, packed up her stuff pretty quickly and transported it back to my place, where it was stored for about a week.  Her furniture was put into storage, and as of yesterday, everything in my place had been put into storage as well.  Right now she has to try to find a place to live. She's been staying in a hotel for a couple of days, but its not a permanent solution.

I was annoyed by a lot of people during this whole fiasco.  I realize how annoying it was to be without power for an extended period of time, but people in your own state, in your favorite vacations spots, literally lost their homes, their lives, and their livelihoods.  Everyday someone else was complaining on Facebook about being without power.  Like I said, I get it because I was in that position too, but for my sister, who lost her home and stayed with me in a powerless home, its time to get some perspective.  For the most part, I didn't even really mind being without power.  I did not miss watching TV, instead I read a few books.  Being without heat kind of sucked, but I like sleeping in the cold.  The first few days weren't even that cold and seeing as how I keep my thermostat at 65 anyway, it didn't make too much of a difference.  Only when we had a snow storm did the coldness bother me.

There were a lot of people from all over the country coming to help out our state in a time of need and for people to be complaining all over Facebook and now people in Long Island holding F*ck you LIPA rallies...they are doing everything they can and have left their families and homes in order to help people out and all they can do is complain.  Do they even realize the extent of damage that has happened across our area?  Instead of sitting around complaining, how about going out and helping people who honestly need it.   Being in Toms River and seeing all the houses with a big red check mark on it, meaning it was condemned, was a really haunting sight.

The Tiffany Experience

It has been a couple of weeks since my last blog.  I have been super busy at my new job, and I love it!!!  I am currently in my second week of training and although it is a lot of information, I am doing really well and I enjoy learning about such a world renowned company.

The people that work there are all so nice.  Everyone is so willing to help you and answer any questions you may have.  They also say that they set everyone up for success.  

I never thought I would enjoy working in a big company, but I have definitely changed my mind.  I thought everyone would just do their own thing and not worry about anyone else, but my trainer Katie said today that they really worry about people in their department and if you are late or don't show up for work, they worry that you may have gotten into an accident or are sick.  As soon as you walk in the door everyone says hello or gives a smile and seems like everyone truly enjoys their job.

I am really am so happy with this job and although for the moment it is a seasonal position, I am hoping it turns into a permanent one.  It is definitely a place where I feel like I fit in, and although we are told to give the customers a "Tiffany experience" I feel as if I have gotten one just by working there!

Sports Fan

I hate when people think that just because I am girl, it means I can't comprehend sports or I can't be a sports fan.  News flash, I can comprehend and I am a sports fan.  I have always been a sports fan, and I have always played sports.  I enjoyed some more than others and spent a majority of my life playing soccer.  I have also spend a majority of my life watching the Yankees with my father.  It was the only thing on our television from April until October.  I am not a front runner, I am not a bandwagon fan, I am a true fan.  I can't help that I was brought up a team that others criticize whenever they get a chance.  I am tired of defending myself to the "boys club" when it comes to talking sports.

For the record, as a baseball fan, I would have been quite happy had the Orioles won the ALCS.  It has been 15 years since they have been in such a position and it would be exciting had they kept on going.  Am I happy that the Yankees won?  Obviously, but I would have also liked to have seen what the Orioles could have done.  It was a good series and I am hoping we can do it again next year.  It has been fun having a friendly competition with the O's fans in my life!

On to the ALDS!  Go Yankees!

Thank You!

I was very overwhelmed by all the warm wishes I received yesterday after announcing I got a job.  From the phone calls, to the texts, to the Facebook messages...it really is good to know there are people out there who are supportive.  It is good to know that there are people out there, who even though I don't talk to often, that can be happy for me.  I am genuinely happy when good things happy to other people, so its great to know that people are supportive of me as well.

I can't wait to start my new job at Tiffany & Co!  It seems like a great environment to work in and one of the women I met with the other day said that they are very supportive of their employees and genuinely appreciate each and every person.  I am excited to meet new people and learn new things, but mostly excited to have a purpose once again.  Trying to have a purpose when you are unemployed and broke is a difficult task!!

I have gotten numerous requests for use of my employee discount so I will keep you all informed.  But seeing as how over a month ago I sent my mom my birthday/Christmas wish list, and I requested a pair of Tiffany earrings, my personal shopping is first and foremost :-)

Thank you to everyone who offered up support, whether through "likes," texts, messages or phone calls.  From the bottom of my heart I really do appreciate it.  It has been a rough couple of months for me and its great to know so many people care.  Love to you all xoxo!

Positivity

It seems like I haven't written in awhile when in fact I have written, I just chose to keep some writings private.  I have decided to focus on what's positive in my life instead of what is negative.  And although there seems to be a lot of negative, I am looking past it and moving on.  Sometimes situations don't work out and there is nothing you can do to fix that.

On a positive note, I applied for a job today and got a call a few hours later asking me to come in for an interview.  I know I am awesome and make a good first impression, but I never thought I would get a call so quickly, even if the woman did say she was going to call me.  In the world of job searching, when people say they will call, they likely don't when they say they will.  I'm hoping this all works out!

On another positive I got myself a new roommate.  He is a beta fish and I named him Curtis after my favorite Yankee Curtis Granderson!  Too bad he can't pay rent though!

I am loving this fall weather!  The trees look beautiful, the weather is crisp and the weather is perfect for sleeping.  I have been sleeping so well lately.  I think it is because of the chilly fall air coming in my window.  It may get cold at night but I love cuddling up under the blankets!  The only downfall is my scratchy throat, but it seems to be typical fall allergies.  Oh, and the best part of fall...Yankees Postseason!  There is nothing better than watching a good postseason baseball game!

Apartment Living Sucks

My apartment complex obviously seems to have rules, but I don't think many people that live here follow them.  When I moved in I was told there were no dogs allowed and that there was a limit to how many people could live in a unit.  I was told that in the one bedroom apartment, the maximum number of people that was allowed was 3 (two adults and a baby, up until the baby was around 1).  There is a family that lives behind me in a one bedroom that looks to me like there are six people living there.  There are 4 adults- what I assume to be grandparents, parents and then two teenagers.  My place is not that big, so I'm not sure how they are managing, but they don't bother me.  In fact, I barely know they are there.

Then there are the people who live in the building behind me.  The building behind me is two bedroom apartments and I'm sure they have similar maximum occupancy rules (I assume 4- two parents and two children) but there seems to be a lot more living there and they have created quite an eyesore for me to look out my kitchen window.  They have lawn chairs set up everywhere, motorcycles in the yard and have even stolen the community picnic table for their own use.  And then there are the children.  The is quite a bit of lawn space right outside their patio door but for some reason the kids are always right by my front door, playing in the parking lot and screaming.  Some of these kids are quite young and yet I don't see the parents anywhere and I am afraid they will either get hit by a car or that they will damage my car in some way.  They are running around playing war games and the rocks that line my outside space are always in the road.  I'm afraid they are throwing these rocks and if one hits my car, there will be hell to pay.  

There is also a no dog policy, yet I just saw them chasing around their runaway dog, while "Dad" was driving his motorcycle around the lawn.  What really gets me is that the apartment manager lives two doors down from them and the lease prohibits anything being left outside that is not on their own patio.

I get that management is probably struggling to keep people in the development so maybe they are making some concessions, but you can't enforce the rules for some without enforcing it for others.  It makes the development look crappier than it already is and for the people that follow the rules, it will definitely not entice them to continue living here.  I do not want to have to go through moving all over again, but there are a lot of things about this place that is considered a deal breaker for me, and looking out my window and seeing a trashy-looking atmosphere is definitely one of them.  Not to mention the super thin walls and floors.

Anyone have a one bedroom bungalow I can rent?  Somewhere in the middle of nowhere so I don't have to deal with anyone?

Reading Rainbow

I don't know if anyone has read The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo series, but I have, and although I have finished all three books, it wasn't without a lot of effort.  I had The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest by my bed for about 6 months before I even got the nerve up to start it.  I took it with me three times down to North Carolina and my mom made fun of me each time for not finishing it.  Finish it?  I hadn't even started!  I finally did start on the third trip down towards the end of July.  I just finished it last weekend.

For anyone who has ever read Stieg Larsson knows how difficult it is to get through these books.  I find that a lot of characters have similar names (that are in fact Swedish) making it difficult for me to differentiate between who is who.  He also has so many characters and uses nicknames for some, so I rarely know who any of the non-dominant characters are.  Additionally, he writes a lot of smaller plot lines that could be left out of the book.  When I first started reading The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo I was paying close attention to the beginning, only to find out it really had nothing to do with the main plot line.  The same could be said of a lot of the information in The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest.  He could be a fine proponent of "Less is more."  

I have become invested in Lisbeth and Blomkvist and unfortunately Stieg Larsson passed away so there seems there will never be a conclusion to their twisted lives.  I have read that Larsson's girlfriend has the workings of a fourth book, but his family will not relinquish the rights to her in order for her to complete the work.  It is a shame that we won't get to see how it wrapped up, but I don't feel like someone else completing another's work will produce the conclusion many people are looking for.

It takes a lot of dedication for me to read these books.  They are not the quick, light reads I am used to.  In fact after completing The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest, I began to read The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks.  That book was a breeze!  I read that in only a couple of days.  It was easy, yet entertaining.  I like the way that he, as well as another one of my favorite authors Jodi Piccoult, writes from different characters perspectives.  Each chapter represents a different character, but it conveys the story fluidly and allows you to really connect with the characters.  In typical Nicholas Sparks fashion, it was sad, but ended on a high note.

I could probably read 25 Nicholas Sparks, Jodi Piccoult or Emily Giffen books in place of one of Stieg Larsson's.  I do think he is a talented writer, but like I said I get confused too easily.  I'm sure others have a different opinion, but I'll stick to my light, airy, girly books :-)

Never Forget

I remember waking up that day and just like every other day, I checked my email.  I had an email from a friend who lived in the city saying that she was safe and okay.  I didn't understand it at the time, but I was going to be late for class so I got myself ready and headed off to class.

Everything seemed pretty normal that morning, but it was far from it.  I walked towards the back of the classroom toward my roommate Adrienne, and my professor had the news on the projector screen.  That was when I realized what that email had meant.  The news showed utter destruction in a city less than 60 miles from my home, as well as in Washington, DC where a lot of my classmates were from.  Not only that, but the previous night a bunch of my friends and I were hanging out with some people who were flying back to Scotland that very morning.  Adrienne and I had told our professor about our Scottish friends and she let us and the rest of the class leave.  I can remember walking through the parking lot trying to call my mom, but all the circuits were busy and it was almost impossible to get a call through.  I was worried about my parents, my sister, and most of all my grandmother, aunt and uncle and cousins who lived just over the George Washington Bridge on the Jersey side.  I had known that my aunt had often taken Joseph and Hailee into the city because of modeling gigs and I was hoping that today was not one of those days.  Thank God everyone was safe, but since my uncle worked for the town of Edgewater (right across the river from NYC) he had been called in to assist at Ground Zero.

I heard amazing stories of how people had narrowly missed their train into the city, or decided to call in sick that day, and therefore avoided such devastation.  It's funny how some people thought missing the train into the city was the worst thing that could happen that day, but it ended up being the best thing that had happened.

I can't remember much about the days that followed.  I can't remember how long classes had been cancelled for, but I do remember going home and being with my family.  I'm pretty sure the majority of the campus did the same.

I hold a special place in my heart for the people who ran into the city and Pentagon while everyone else was running out.  I also hold a special place in my heart for all the service men and women who continue to protect and serve our country.

I walked past the Freedom Tower a couple of weeks ago while in the city.  It's a chilling experience and I can't wait until I get a chance to go to the 9/11 Memorial.

Kids Say the Darndest Things

Whenever I see the kids they make me laugh.  Whether it is with their silly jokes, their silly faces or just plain old childhood wisdom.  I wish I had kept a running journal of the funniest things that have spewed out of their mouths because it is truly unbelievable sometimes.

My favorite line of Marisah's was when she was about four years old.  She was putting her arms up for me to pick her up and they just happen to rest on my boobs.  She patted them for a little bit and then asked me "What are these?"  I told her that they were my breasts and her response was "Are mine going to be that big when I get older?"  I thought to myself, "I hope not!"

Harrison has had some real kickers.  He has quite a personality and has no filter!  Today while we were watching previews for a movie, there was some sort of advertisement with a dinosaur in it and he turned to me and said "You were lucky as a little kid because you got to see dinosaurs."  I told him that I definitely was not alive when dinosaurs roamed the Earth and he said "But you were born in the 1900's right?"  Yes, yes I was, but dinosaurs were around long before then.  He then reasoned that maybe dinosaurs were around in about 1950.

The funniest part is that while I am feeling old at that moment, at lunch earlier Marisah told me that she always thinks I am a teenager and don't look like an adult.

For any parent who has young kids I would encourage you to write these things down.  They will definitely give you laughs as the kids get older and would be something great to share on a special occasion like college graduation!

On a side note, I'm still on the cool side but while Aunt Jackie was giving Marisah hugs she told her to stop because she was embarrassing her  :-(  Meanwhile I was grabbing her tush on the way back from the bathroom and she was hysterically laughing.  I also had Harrison basically making out with my hand while at the movie theater (which was kind of embarrassing for me!!).  One of these days I will be right there with Aunt Jackie embarrassing them, but I'm going to squeeze and kiss them for as long as I can!

Worst Review

“When it comes to life and love, why do we believe our worst reviews?”

I was thinking about this Sex and the City quote today and it had me thinking of how true this is.  I can have all the great friends that I have, but if one person doesn't like me, I begin to harbor about what I ever did to them or why they don't like me.

I really don't know what I ever did, but apparently it was something because rather than tell me, this person can tell everyone else what they think I did. And whatever it is they think I did, its not true.

My mom's advice is to just focus on the great people around me, which I will do.  I got great news from a great friend today and I have been smiling ever since receiving the news.  I will cross out the bad reviews and only focus on the good.

Outta Sight, Outta Mind

Today, against my better judgement I looked at something that I knew I shouldn't have.  I knew upon looking at this, it would only annoy me or make me upset, and low and behold, it did.

It has been awhile since I looked at this thing and its true what they say, "Outta sight, outta mind."  I really hadn't thought of the person associated with this "thing" since pushing it aside and therefore, I had less ill feelings about it.

I don't know why looking at this gives me such emotion but it does.  It makes me sad, mad, annoyed and frustrated all in one.  I guess I should just keep this on the back burner and continue to not look at it and let it bother me.

Curiosity got the best of me and I won't let it happen again.  I hate feeling like this so I'm going to try to move and not think about things so much!

Who Would You Be?

Why is it that I have the entire series of Sex and the City and Friends on DVD, yet I catch myself watching them on tv all the time?  I don't think either series could get old!

As I was sitting here watching Sex and the City today I was wishing I could be like Carrie Bradshaw.  Sitting at my desk, writing away on my laptop and coming up with insightful anecdotes.  I know she is a fictional character and I know I basically do that here and there with my blog, but I'm not getting paid for it!

If I could be any character on tv, I think I would want to be Carrie.  Her great fashion, great shoes, great job and an apartment in Manhattan...what is better?  Although watching these shows I know realistically their lifestyles are not possible based on their incomes, but it makes it all look so glamorous!  I can guarantee, getting there is not so glamorous.  The job that I interviewed for in Manhattan, the salary was only around $30,000.  That is not enough to cover my rent in Jersey, my car payment, as well as a monthly train ticket and all other miscellaneous expenses.  Forget about living in Manhattan and forget about wearing Manolo Blahnik shoes!

For now, I'll be the Carrie Bradshaw of Morris County, New Jersey ;-)

Surprise!

Yesterday I surprised the kids at their last day of camp.  Both kids were so surprised and so happy to see me.  Marisah yelled my name and jumped on me before I even saw her and Harrison was so excited that he forgot to bring all of his stuff out with him and instead just ran up and jumped on me.  It's nice to feel so loved!

Rissy with her horse Cody and her trophy
for most improved rider!

The reason for the surprise was because Marisah had been at horseback riding camp all week and she had a show yesterday to showcase what they learned all week.  She looked like a pro!  She has the perfect posture and was so good at directing the horse.  She had so much fun and wants to go back next year.


We had a great rest of the day playing outside as well as playing school inside.  Marisah was the teacher and I had an annoying student next to me who kept sitting on my lap and giving me kisses!  Even the teacher couldn't control him.  I had to move my desk, lol!

As I was getting ready to leave, Marisah started crying real bad.  At first I thought she was faking it, but she really wasn't.  I felt so bad!  She wanted me to stay and watch Full House with her, but I really had to get home.  It broke my heart.  Then Harrison started crying!  He asked to come home with me, which I said no to, and they both were begging me to sleep at Aunt Jackie's with them.  It is so hard to say no to them, but I did.  I can't give into them every time!

As Marisah was crying I told her it wasn't like she wouldn't ever see me again and I made a pinkie promise that we would do something before school started.  This may sound a little morbid, but on the way home I got to thinking that there are no guarantees in life that I would see them again.  I could have easily gotten into an accident on the way home.  What if that was one of the last things I had ever said to them?  I always leave them with an "I love you" but what if they went through life thinking I had told them it wouldn't be the last time that I would see them and it was?  I say that to them often because they are upset when I have to leave...should I not say that anymore?  I obviously don't intend on something happening to me, but you never know!

I just love those kids so much and I don't ever want to do anything to cause them hurt or pain.  I always want to be someone they will run to and jump on when seeing them.  So far, with me at least, they don't seem to be embarrassed for hugs and kisses in public and I hope it is always that way!!

You Want What?

Applying to jobs online can be an intimidating process.  Everyone has a different form that they want you to fill out with certain information.  Most of the information is pretty mainstream...name, previous experience, address, blah blah blah.  But the other day I filled out an application for a nanny company that wanted some pretty weird information.

Obviously applying to be a nanny, your job would entail taking care of some kids, doing some light housework, and driving around the kids.  I can understand why parents would want certain information but to ask me if I wear glasses, or what kind of meds I am on, I just found that strange.  They also wanted my height and weight.  Some of these things I find is none of their business.  But do I not complete the application and know I won't get the job or do I answer the questions and have strangers knowing things about me that even some of my good friends don't know?

I do admit I did lie.  I don't want someone knowing what kind of medication I am on.  I did list one medication but failed to mention another.  My meds would have no effect on my job performance and I don't feel like it is anyone's business.  Other questions I just didn't know how to answer.  The glasses question was a yes or no question.  It is not a yes or no answer.  I wear contacts 95% of the time, but I do sometimes have to wear my glasses.  If I wear glasses would that prevent me from getting a job?

Driving record, background check, those things I understand.  But they didn't ask for my social security number.  Even if they had, I don't know if I would feel comfortable giving that out either.  The guy I met with, I met him at a Barnes and Noble.  I got a background check from the original website so I'm pretty sure they checked it out on there, but if he had asked for my social, I wouldn't feel comfortable giving it out to some strange guy in a Barnes and Noble Cafe.

Ugh, this job search thing can be a scary process.  How do you know who to trust, especially when most of the information is passed through the internet?

Can I Get A Do Over?

Do you ever wish there were do overs in life?  I do!  There are so many things I would change about my life if I could get a do over.  The only problem is, would I have met the same people along a different path?  If I had a different major in college, would I still be friends with the people I know now?  If I had never accepted  that job, I know I never would've met some of the people I have met.

I know nothing comes out of thinking about the past, but sometimes you just can't help it.  Would if I did certain things differently?  Would I still be in the same spot I am in now?

I guess I need to stop thinking about the past and keep moving forward.  Thinking about what I could have done differently will only drive me crazy.  Its time to move forward and think about the great things ahead!

Won't You Be My Neighbor?

Sometimes I wish living in my apartment complex is the same as how it was when living in the dorm in college.  You leave your door open and you make friends.  Doors were always open in my dorm and it was a good way to get to know your neighbors.  I hear my neighbors come and go all the time and it would be nice that instead of them darting their eyes towards the ground and running to their car, that they would introduce themselves.  I am a nice person!

I think it would be helpful to get to know the neighbors.  What if they needed something?  What if we are both doing the same things in our apartments (like watching tv) and they would like some company?  How much fun was it in school to have family dinners and sit around hanging out together?

I do find it odd that the older we get, the harder it is to make friends.  Are people so shut off that they don't want to expand their inner circles?  That seems to be the way.  I am kind of tired of always going out of my way to say hello to these people while they are trying to avoid contact.  Really, how hard is it to say "hi"?  Like I said, if they were ever in a jam, if they were a little more friendly, I may be willing to help them out.  I also may be less likely to complain about their loudness :-P

I guess it will just stand as how it is.  Eight little apartments living eight separate lives.

Catch Up

Wow, it has been a hot minute since I've written.  Between vacation with the kids, a job interview and wedding dress shopping with Erin, I've been a busy little beaver!


Vacation was a great time!!  The kids and I had so much fun with my parents (and Bogey) that no one wanted to leave.  Marisah requested an extra day, so we stayed an extra day, and then the day that we had rescheduled to leave Harrison woke up saying that we weren't leaving and he was making plans for that day. Sadly, we did have to leave and eventually get the kids back home.  But they will definitely have memories for a long time to come.  We did a lot of swimming and Marisah mastered a back flip, Harrison learned how to do flips and worked hard on his treading water.  I taught him a couple of years ago, but he always got a little too frantic in the deep end and would end up splashing around rapidly and then sinking to the bottom.  This time he was able to get the technique down.  We also went on a dolphin cruise which was pretty awesome- except for Rissy getting a little sea sick and I got a little bit of heat exhaustion.  We saw a ton of dolphins and then we met up with a shrimp boat who gave us some of the awesome finds they had in their shrimp nets.  They had a sand shark, an eel and a sand dollar.  Marisah loved the story of the sand dollar!  When you break open the sand dollar there are 5 doves inside that form a star and is said to be the star of Bethlehem.  I didn't get the full legend because that was when I had to step inside the boat to get out of the sun.  But she enjoyed the story and ended up picking out a dried up sand dollar as her souvenir.  In addition to the dolphin cruise we also went to a museum where the kids were able to touch a bunch of sea stars, as well as feed them. There were also hermit crabs and horseshoe crabs in the touch tank and they saw the horseshoe crab being fed as well.  We also went mini-golfing, played some backyard baseball, and went to the beach where they went pretty far out in the waves and had so much fun jumping in the waves and boogie boarding!  Everyone thought the vacation went way too fast but Harrison is planning a Christmas trip and Marisah was planning trips well into her 20's.  I apparently still have to drive them and take them!

Getting ready to set sail on the dolphin cruise!

On the drive home I ended up stopping in Salisbury to have lunch with Jess and decided to show the kids around the SU campus.  They had so much fun walking around and asking me questions about college.  They asked if you could chew gum and what happens if you are sick and where do you go if you get detention.  Imagine their amazement when I told them there is no detention!


After we got home I dropped the kids off at home and ended up setting up a job interview for this past Friday.  I feel like the interview went well.  The job seems fun and there are a lot of perks, such as meeting celebrities and attending fancy partiesm so we'll see what happens.


Finally, yesterday Erin did her first round of wedding dress shopping.  It went so well.  It was the easiest shopping trip anyone had ever been on with Erin!  Every dress she tried on, she looked gorgeous!  It was so hard to pick a favorite, but she did.  Seeing as how her wedding is still a bit away, she is going to continue to look, but at least she now knows what she is looking for and where to go if she can't find a similar one somewhere else.  After that we had a nice lunch out in Red Bank and went back to Papa Squit's house to hang out.


It has been a very exciting two weeks!  Now that I'm back at home and back to being by myself it is a big change from taking care of the kids 24/7 and being with my parents, but its nice to have some alone time.  I'm sure I'll get back to being bored pretty quickly, but for now I am going to enjoy my quiet time.  Who knows, maybe by next week I will be back to being employed!

Senseless Tragedy

It's hard to believe that at the very moment I was writing my blog last night about being nice and having compassion for one other, some crazy gunman decided to open fire on a movie theater.  I don't understand what goes through someone's head when they do this.  Instead of ruining hundreds of lives, kill yourself.  Do everyone a favor.  And where would he get such weapons- an assault rifle, tear gas- these are not things you can pick up at the local Walmart.


What does this mean for us now as a society?  Are we going to need security everywhere we go?  Metal detectors and pat downs at the theater, mall and restaurants.


I just can't imagine the kids riding to the theater, excited to be going to a midnight show with mom and dad, only for it to end in a horrible tragedy.  These people were expecting a great time and a great movie, only to be the victim of a seemingly senseless crime.  And to find out that he has also booby trapped his apartment and could have killed how many more in the area surrounding that space.


My deepest condolences go out to everyone that was a victim of the psychopath.  It doesn't only effect the people sitting in that theater, but if effects so many more.

Mean Girls

You know what boggles my mind?  That people actually patrol the internet and read articles about people they hate and go out of their way to write rude comments.  Same thing with Twitter.  Don't these people have anything to do with their lives?  Are they that miserable that mocking people they barely know, brings them the ultimate joy?


If you don't like someone, why follow them on Twitter?  Of course they are going to be posting about what is going on in their lives, and if you don't care, why bother wasting your life reading and responding to these posts?


There are a lot of hateful people in this world, and even if celebrities get thousands of tweets a day, they still manage to read a few that are just plain hateful.  Tweeting a celebrity telling them to commit suicide, saying rude stuff about their family, or how gross they looked that one time getting off the plane, these people have feelings too and you never know what is going on in their head.  Look at Demi Lovato.  She ended up having to be checked into a facility because of cutting, drinking and drugs.  To start with, she was obviously a fragile teenager, and then add to it thousands of tweets telling her she is fat, or berating her because God forbid she broke up with a Jonas brother?


People need to stop worrying about other people, especially celebrities.  I think it is a real sad state of affairs when Miley Cyrus getting a new tattoo or haircut is front page on Yahoo.  Aren't there more important things going on in the world?  I think so, but apparently other people don't.  And don't even get me started on Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes...I am so sick of hearing about their divorce every 5 seconds!  People are jobless, people are starving, people are dying of disease, and all anyone cares about is whether or not Scientology played a role in their divorce.  WHO CARES!


Its time for the world to wake up and pay attention to things that matter.  The lives of celebrities don't matter.  I will admit that I am on Twitter and I follow a bunch of meaningless celebs, but most of the time I roll my eyes and move on. 


People in today's society really need to learn compassion.  Stop hiding behind computers and bullying other people and instead get out in the world and make a difference.  If people are so tired of hearing about the Kardashians, get off your butt and stop watching their show.  They can't survive if the millions of people who comment about how nauseating they are, stop secretly watching their show.


Of course I agree that how they make their living is ridiculous.  Look at Snooki, getting drunk and getting paid millions of dollars for it.  Sounds like the 4 years I spent at college other than the millions of dollars.  Do I wish I could have her life style?  Of course, but do I send her mean tweets telling her how she should die and making fun of her unborn child...no!  What difference does she make in my life?


The point is, is that no one knows what is going on behind closed doors.  Just because 95% of their life is public, there is still another 5% that no one is privy to.  Stop worrying about what other people are doing and try to make a difference with your own life.

Summer Temps

I don't know why everyone keeps complaining about the heat...it's summertime! This happens every July and August.  Between the pics of the temperature on dashboards being posted on Facebook or the screenshots of the weather forecast being posted...GET OVER IT!!

If you don't like the heat and humidity, get out of Jersey.  It is like this every summer!!

The best part of the heat and humidity is the thunderstorms, which just happen to have just started by me.  I love watching the lightening and hearing the thunder. The other day Kelsey, Molly, Meg and I were sitting on Aunt Jackie's sun porch watching the best lightening show!  Kelsey said it was like watching fireworks!

I know in a couple of months people will be posting pics of the 10 degrees on their dashboard come winter time.  We all get it..extreme weather is not very fun, but its a part life and we all have to deal with it!

No more pictures please.

Age Gap

You know what's funny about age?  The older you get, the smaller age gap seem to be.  Yesterday while talking to Kelsey she said it always seemed like the older cousins were so much older, but now that she is 23 and we are in our early 30's, it doesn't seem like such a gap.  Its the truth.  I guess because we are all in similar phases of our lives and have more common interests, it seems like we are on the same level.  We were always close growing up, but we were never in the same place. Now that we are older, we can relate to the same issues and go out for drinks if we so choose.


I had a fun day yesterday with Megan, Molly and Kelsey walking around New Hope.  I wish that one day soon, we can get the triplets all in one place so we can all hang out.  For the last few years it has always been one or another at a gathering, but never all three.  I hope that we can accomplish this before Erin's wedding because it has been way too long!!

A Phone Book?

For the second time in two months, I received a phone book on my doorstep...a phone book!  Does anyone use these anymore?  With the internet, is it really necessary to waste all that printing and paper?  I think it has even come to 411 being obsolete.  It is so easy to check the internet on your cell phone and simply click on the number and it starts dialing.

A friend and I were discussing what life would be like without cell phones.  Since I am taking another trip down south next weekend, I was thinking what would happen if I broke down on the side of the road?  I would be all alone in a strange state not knowing what to do.

In that aspect, cell phones are great.  In another aspect they are such a pain in the butt.  Everyone feels like you should always be available to talk.  I feel like it has also impeded the younger generation from learning how to interact with the human population.  I am not much of a phone talker; in fact, the employee at Verizon made fun of me when he saw I only used about 60 out of my 450 minutes a month.  I do text a lot though.

I wonder how long it will take for landlines to be obsolete.  I have one only because my "bundle" requires one and it is supposedly cheaper to have a phone, internet and cable all together.  I don't ever use it though.  I do know the phone number which is more than I can say about my previous landline.

Look at Me!

What makes some people crave attention while others shy away from it?  I've never been one that requires too much attention.  I was the quiet, shy one in school who spent my time playing soccer and reading books. Even until this day, I am comfortable living alone and don't have to spend every hour of every day engaged with someone.  I can comfortably sit in my apartment and read books or watch TV and it doesn't bother me.  I prefer it, and I also prefer to shop alone.  Maybe it is because I have my own agenda and don't want to have to deal with other people's agendas.  I like to get in, get what I need, and get out.  Browsing to me is torture!!  Over the years I have gotten over my shyness so I know that is not the reason, but I guess I will still always be the quiet type.  Don't get me wrong, I like people and I like to interact with people.  I'm not some crazy person who is a hermit and doesn't know how to talk to people.  I always engage with the people I encounter throughout the day.


So what makes people crave the attention?  Is it because they didn't receive enough of it over the years or was it because they had too much of it and continue to crave that interaction?  I do think it depends on the person and their chemical make-up.  One person could have had all the attention in the world and another could have had no attention what-so-ever, but they could still both seek attention.


I wish I had taken some psychology classes while in school so I could get a better understanding of how people work.  I have such an inquisitive mind and always like to research and ask questions.  Maybe this will be my next research project!  Beware, I might try to analyze you next ;-)

Truth Hurts

How do you tell someone the truth when you know it will crush them?


I know a lot of people have come across the dilemma often...do you tell your best friend that her boyfriend is a d-bag? Do you tell your mother that her shirt is ugly? Do you tell another friend that you think there is something wrong with their baby?


I've dealt with many of these problems, but this is one situation where I know that person would never forgive me for what I am saying.  So do I keep my mouth shut or do I wake this person up to their own reality?


For the record, I usually tend to be honest with people.  I think honesty is the best policy.  I do tell my mother that her outfits could use some work.  Just a couple of weeks ago I told her that her forehead was too big and she should get bangs.  Another time, a friend of mine told me that since I am such a good friend I could tell her that her baby was ugly if I thought he was (he wasn't by the way).  People that I know or have known have praised me for my honesty.  I just don't see what the point of lying is.  I would rather own up to my indiscretions than have to explain down the road, when the truth comes out, why I lied in the first place.  It takes too much energy to lie, in my opinion. And the truth usually does come out.


So what would you do?  Would you tell someone something that you knew if you did, that you would never speak to this person again?  Or would you keep your mouth shut and continue to hold your tongue?  It is getting really hard for me to hold my tongue lately, but I don't want to destroy a relationship.

Summer Memories

This weekend marks the weekend we would normally start our two week family vacation in LBI and oh how I miss those weeks.  We had so many great memories down there with friends and family.  It seemed to always be a big party with the Wenthen clan...from the Karls to the Russos to the Seebers and the occasional visit from the Squitieris and Gormleys.


Saturdays would start with my mom, sister and I leaving for the island around 6 am so we could beat the traffic.  Since check in wasn't until 2, we would go down there, walk around, grab some lunch and then head off to our home for two weeks. After that we made a big food shopping trip, unpacked and set everything up.  After that it was nothing beaching and relaxing.  My dad would usually get there late...once he didn't get there until about 10pm and it was the first and last year we made the mistake of having him bring the sheets in his car.


The first week we were down there, my parents would allow my sister and I to bring friends down.  One year they were particularly crazy and allowed me to have 3 friends and my sister 2.  That was the last year they did that.  Too many issues with all those teenage girls in one house.  I think my dad had had enough that year.


Other than that we had great times hanging out with our family.  It was those vacations that I really got to spend time with the cousins.  I can remember one night when the triplets were young and we were at their house on Connecticut Ave and Nana and Poppi were babysitting all of us.  Our parents had stayed out late and Nana and Poppi were sitting on the deck outside anxiously awaiting their return.  I don't know if they had had enough of us kids or if it was just that late, but either way, they were none too pleased.


Then there was the times we went to the Showplace and we had to sing for our ice cream.  Or the times we went to Fantasy Island and Molly was so small it seemed like she was going to fall out of the Pirate Ship.


LBI is definitely my happy place and I wish we could go back to those days.  Maybe when we are all older and with our own families we can all rent places down there and give our children the same experiences we were able to have!

Explain Yourself

I am one of those people who never feels like they have to explain themselves.  I try to do everything with the best interest at heart and when I get burned it really pisses me off.  Explaining myself is also something that pisses me off, especially when the story has been relayed by outside sources and I never get to explain my side.


Today I made the mistake of trying to explain myself and in hindsight I shouldn't have because this person doesn't even matter much.  There is no reason to explain myself to this person because it won't make a difference anyway.  I haven't gotten a response and I'm sure I won't.


Oh well, you live and learn.

Craft Ideas

I've been in a super crafty mood lately and since I'm bored out of my mind being home all day, anything to keep me busy!  Yesterday I made Marisah some flip flops with ribbons tied around the straps since she gets blisters from the plastic straps.  Lucky for me the ribbon I found happen to be on sale for 27 cents and peace signs are her favorite.  The flip flops were only $1 so the project was super cheap and easy.  You can do this with any pair of flip flops you have laying around.  It is much cheaper than buying fabric flip flops and it is pretty much the same concept.


The next project that I would like to try to tackle is to make road trip pillow cases.  I found them on Pinterest.  All you have to do is sew a fabric pocket onto an existing pillow case and the kids can put books, crafts, toys, etc in the pocket.  There was also a carrying strap on the ones I saw on Pinterest.  I think it would be perfect for our road trips to NC and can easily be done with fabric laying around the house.  You can take old clothes, sheets, blankets, etc for the pocket.


I wonder what else I can do.  I have a couple of empty walls that I would like to add some decoration to, so I'll have to think about what to do with them.  I was thinking of getting some blank canvases and having the kids paint something for me.

Done

I have never felt so hurt and so disrespected by so many people.  I am tired of the lies, tired of the bullshit, tired of the manipulation, and tired of the drama.


I utterly had an emotional breakdown today because I can't handle this anymore. I need to get away from this.  I am done.  I have spent so much time and energy on two people who have taken me for granted.  One day I'm the bad guy, the next day I'm the favorite (which I could give two shits about anyway).  So this round I am the bad guy...that's fine because I'm done.  No more gifts, no more money, no more rides, no more beach trips.  I am drawing the line.  Bridges have been burned for the last time.

Manners

Do parents teach their kids manners anymore?

Last night Devon, Presley and I went to go see the fireworks at Horseshoe Lake.  We had a nice spot on the beach and set up our blanket to get a good view of the fireworks.  Of course there were a lot of kids running around, but there didn't seem to be a parent in sight.  There were kids purposely throwing sand on our blanket, going past the barricades into the water when the sign clearly said to stay out, kids running through the sand kicking it all which way, and flinging ice cream at everyone.  We and another couple around these hooligans ended up moving our blankets.

I get that it was supposed to be a family fun night and for kids to have some fun, but that doesn't mean the kids shouldn't be mindful of the people around them.  When I have the kids on the beach, I always try to teach them proper beach etiquette as far as sand goes.  Of course no one can be careful all the time, but when a child is digging through the sand like a dog and throwing sand everywhere, that's where you need to draw the line.  Especially when you are on a super crowded beach!

Okay, rant over! I'm going to go enjoy my day.

The Ramblings of Someone Who Can't Fall Asleep!

There's a funny thing about friendship...you don't have to talk to one another everyday, or see each other all the time, but when you get that random phone call, text message or email, it can make your day.


There have been countless times when I've been in a bad mood or felt a little melancholy and out of the blue I will hear from one these friends to let me know they are thinking about me that day, and it will change my entire outlook on that day.  It's like they know.  There must be some sort of sixth sense to let them know that I could use a pick-me-up.  I'm sure I have done the same for them as well.


Seeing them in person is even better!!  Last week when I drove home from NC and stopped in to see Jess and Theresa.  I didn't think I would spend as much time there as I did, but once we get together, it's like time just passes and no one notices.  There is always something to talk about!


I remember a time during college that Jess and I went out to lunch after a night of drinking and we saw a cute older couple in the restaurant.  Jess had asked how, after many years of marriage and being together everyday, that could still have something to talk about.  I then reminded her that we were roommates, had lived together for going on two years, spent most of our time together and we still had stuff to talk about.  I don't know why that conversation sticks out in my head, but it's the truth.


I might not talk to everyone all the time and we might not know the goings-on in each other's lives all the time, but once we are together there is no topic that is off limits.  And that goes for all the great friends I made in college, not just Jess and Theresa.


The group emails, the get-togethers, the random "Jersey sucks" or "Yankees suck" text messages, the "I love yous" and everything else in between.  I really couldn't have asked to have met a better group of people in college.


As I think about my cousin Brian going off to college in the fall, I can only hope he has a similar experience!

I posted this pic awhile back on a couple of friends' facebook pages

p.s. this post does not only apply to college friends.


p.p.s. I don't know what compelled me to get out of bed at 12:30 and write this post!

Frustrated

Trying to search for work has got to be one of the most frustrating things ever.  There aren't many "good" jobs out there and most don't pay what I need to survive.  Not only that, but I don't even know what I would like to do or where I would like to end up.

I think about moving constantly, but I don't know if that is the answer.  I fear if I do move I will miss the kids too much.  They have been a big part of my life for the past 8 years and I have seen them at least once a month since they were born, so for me to move far away and not be able to see them, I feel it would break my heart.

I know I can't base my decisions on other people, but I'd be lying if I said I wouldn't worry about them.  I would worry about how it would effect them if I move far away and couldn't see them as often.  It doesn't help that anyone I talk to about moving always asks me "what about the kids?"

Hopefully one of these days I will figure something out!

Busy Busy

It's been quite awhile since I last posted.  I just got home after being away for two weeks!  First I was down by my parents, then I came home for about 7 hours to sleep and went down by my sister and spent some time with her and the kids.  We had some fun at the beach, until Marisah got stung by a jellyfish and we had to take her to the ER.  Poor baby girl.  She was in so much pain but she handled it quite well.  She made me sit in the back seat with her while Courtney drove to the hospital and she pulled my arm around her, laid her head on my shoulder and was crying.  It broke my heart!  I wanted to cry too, but I knew it would only make her feel worse.  She got the sting while swimming in the bay, so needless to say, I don't think she will be swimming in the bay again anytime soon.  It's too bad though because she had so much fun until that happened!

The aftermath of Rissy's jellyfish "hug"

On my way home from North Carolina, I made a stop to the Eastern Shore to see Theresa and the baby and to have dinner with Jess.  Sophie is so cute and so small!!  I spent a good amount of time with Theresa and it was so good to catch up and chat!  On the way to meet Jess for dinner I was driving through Salisbury and I was reminded of so many memories that I had forgotten about.  I passed the Chicken Man, UP, Brittingham Square, The Greens, Green Mor, SU, Cheers...all such great memories.  The memories that I made down there would not be such great memories if it hadn't been for the people I met and call my friends.  Sometimes I wish I could go back just for a week and relive it all!  


What I expected to be a quick trip through the Eastern Shore turned into a five hour pit stop.  Time went by so fast, I didn't even realize what time it was.  I started my trip in NC at 8 am and did not get to Jersey until 1:15 am.  It was all completely worth it.  


I wish that everyone could have as great of a college experience as I had.  I wouldn't change any one bit of it for anything!

Happy Father's Day!

The other day while my mom and I were taking a walk she was telling me how much I am like my father.  At that particular point it wasn't necessarily a good thing.  She said neither one of us talk and how it can be frustrating for her.  I am laid back like my father, while she is a bit neurotic and worries about my life when I'm not worrying about my own.  I had also pointed out earlier in the day how she missed the garbage with a paper towel and instead of picking it up I pointed it out to her.  Classic Kevin Wenthen move!


I like being like my father.  There isn't anyone else in the world I would rather be like.  He may be quiet and laid back, but I know if I ever need him, he will be there for me.  I also know that we can sit in a room together and not say a word, but it doesn't make a difference.


We just got back from a day on the golf course and dinner.  Not too much was said back and forth but it was nice knowing I could spend the day with my dad!

I hope everyone else had a great day with their fathers! Or, if you are a father, I hope you had a great day!  You all definitely deserve it!

Southern Living

I have been down visiting my parents for the last few days and I have to admit that I love southern living. I love that people are so friendly (although a bit annoying having to stop and say hello to everyone while talking my morning walk), I love that the people at the supermarket offer you help to your car, even if you only have one bag!  The houses are gorgeous, the weather is great and the simple way of life is perfection.

There is not much that I miss as far as the hustle and bustle of Jersey. I don't miss the traffic, I don't miss the rude people everywhere and I certainly don't miss the dirty congestion.

Right now I'm sitting on my parents porch watching the golfers and the birds in the river. I could probably sit out here all day! I wish I didn't have to go home next week but reality calls! Until then though, I'm going to enjoy the next few days here and celebrate Father's Day with my dad! I get to sit in a golf cart and chauffeur him around all day as he plays!

Are People Worth It?

Sometimes I wonder if some people are worth it.  You treat them well, you help them out, and then they treat you like crap or take advantage of you.  I'm sure a lot of people have had similar experiences, but what makes it so that we keep trying?  I know the reasoning behind me trying and it is a good reason, but how many times do I need to get hurt?


I keep saying I'm not going to let it bother me and that eventually this other person will learn their lesson, but I do let it get to me.  It has happened many times and this other person does not seem to find anything wrong with their actions, even if I have told them how I feel.  It is always just one excuse after another.


I know I have other people who would do anything for me so I will continue to build and thrive on these relationships.  I appreciate everyone who is there for me and who continually shows me support!

It's All Happening...

Okay, maybe not, but since its one of my favorite movie lines I wanted to use it.

I had another interview today and I'm hoping it went well.  It was for a credit union and the growth potential is great!  I'm hoping to hear some good news next week so keep your fingers crossed!

I'm excited about this weekend.  I am heading down to Maryland to celebrate Jeff's 30th birthday with some of my best friends!  Since I will already be south, I decided to keep on driving south and visit my parents.  I'm hoping that since Iron Man 3 is being filmed there, I will have a Robert Downey Jr or Gwyneth Paltrow sighting.

I don't have much else to say today.  It's been a quiet few days.  I hope everyone has a great weekend and next time you hear from me, I'll be on the beach :-)

My Marbles

When my cousin Sarah passed away in 2001 it was the most devastating thing that has happened to our family.  I remember being woken up early on a Tuesday morning to a phone call from my mom telling me that Sarah, who had been abroad in Taiwan, had been hit by a bus and was killed.  I was numb.  I don't remember a lot about the rest of the day.  The four hour drive home was a blur and even after I got home I don't remember much other than going to bed around 7 pm and crying myself hysterically to sleep.

The next days were filled with spending time with the family and trying to make arrangements.  Since her body had been in Taiwan it took awhile for it to be released to the US.  The day after her passing was her younger brother's 18th birthday.  Talk about the worst birthday a person could have.  We tried to make it nice by buying him some Vegan ice cream, but not many were in the mood for celebrating.


Sarah's childhood best friend Michelle, as well as her college friends, quickly became a part of our own family. At Sarah's funeral Michelle began passing out marbles to all of us so that we wouldn't "lose our marbles" with all the heartache and stress.  It became a distraction for me to roll the marbles in my hands and try to forget about what was going on around me.  It was so hard for everyone around to go through such a tragedy.  I can remember the triplets, who had grown close to Sarah while she lived in California, hysterically crying.  They were so young to have to endure such pain.


Since Sarah had passed I had kept her marbles with me everyday. I switched them from purse to purse without giving it a second thought.  About six years ago when my grandmother passed away, Michelle was there with more marbles.  I added those marbles to the ones I had received when Sarah passed and had carried them around everywhere.


Somewhere along the line I must have stopped switching them from purse to purse.  Just the other day I was going through some old purses in order to sell them, and I found my marbles!  It brought such joy for me to discover these and roll them around in my hands.  I feel like Sarah and my Nana are looking down on me.  I will now put them in my purse and once again continue to switch them from purse to purse.  I know I had Sarah's marbles in my purse the day I was in a car accident and had to be cut out of the car with the jaws of life.  I walked away with a bruised rib and some other bruises and scratches but it could have been a whole lot worse.  I remember a police officer looking me straight in the eyes and telling me he had no idea how I survived.  I do.  I know I had a guardian angel looking over me that day and have many looking over me today!

My Role In Life

I have found the role I was born to play...too bad I'm not in a point in my life where it is feasible.


I really feel like I was born to be a mom!  The past two Fridays I was able to pick Marisah and Harrison up from school and spend the weekend with them.  I love picking them up from school.  I love hearing about their day, seeing what they learned that day, ask about any tests, and communicate with their teachers. I love looking through their backpacks to see all their work and going over anything that they seem to be having trouble with.


In addition to all these things, I love watching them play and learn.  I love making dinner for them while they quietly play on the computer or read a book. I love the hugs at night, the cuddles in bed in the morning and the unconditional outpouring of love.


I even love singing "Down By The Bay" for an hour on the car ride home from the beach and listening to their silly rhymes.


A lot of people seem to think that being a stay-at-home mom is a thankless job, but in my experience with being a "stand-in" the rewards are in the faces of the kids.  The rewards are the hugs and kisses.  The rewards are constantly being asked when they will see me again because they will miss me too much.  I have pure joy in taking care of those little munchkins.  Even if it is frustrating sometimes when they are not listening or behaving, it is a wrinkle in time that will quickly pass.


I love making a difference in the life of a child- there is no greater reward in the world!  I will continue to do everything I can to make these kids have the best life they can.  

In My Life

My father exposed me to a lot of music.  He always had a bunch of records and CDs around the house, and long car rides equaled his music on the radio.  I was able to learn a lot of different classic rock music and now I enjoy that more than I do any of the newer stuff on the radio.  I love Fleetwood Mac, The Beatles, The Doobie Brothers, Steve Miller Band, etc.  My two most favorite Pandora stations are The Beatles Station and Fleetwood Mac.


I hate the question "what is your favorite song?" or "who is your favorite band?"  I could never answer either of these questions.  I have thousands of songs on my iPod and while on shuffle, there are so many times a new song will come on and I get excited about it.  Music is such a large part of my life.  It evokes so many emotions and can be attached to so many different memories.


I remember every time "In My Life" by The Beatles came on the radio my father would say that he wanted it played at his funeral.  I know its kind of morbid, but from the first time I can remember hearing the song, I can remember my dad uttering those words.  Now every time I hear it, I think of my dad.  Mostly it makes me smile, until I think about the part about it being played at his funeral.  I have cried numerous times while listening to the song, but I can't bear to turn it off.

There are so many other Beatles song that make me cry because I can't help but think of who I associate the song with.  Mostly they are happy tears though!  

I could never live without music!  I can't be in a car without music on, the silence is deafening!