JennaEricson

Happy Birthday

2010-07-07T16:38:00.002-04:00

Happy Birthday to the best mommy in the universe!
See her blog: Sue's Kitchen

Strawberry Fields Forever: Ben Harper

2010-07-04T02:46:00.003-04:00

Happy Fourth of July, everyone! And Happy Birthday to Kyle, as well!

Whether you only read books for school or if you read for pleasure, everyone's finished a book or two in their time. These are some of the best books I've ever read and why. But keep in mind that this is totally opinion only. Everyone has one, usually different.

Year of Wonders: A Novel of the Plague by Geraldine Brooks- I thought this was a fantastic book. I actually read it for summer reading in high school. When you think of the plague, you don't think of anything beautiful or romantic. Yet, somehow, Geraldine Brooks found a way to address the highest and lowest points of a woman who lost everything she had left in life from the plague and survived through it. She wrote the book in such a way that no matter how dark everything was there was still going to be a bright side no matter what. In all of the negativity of the era, there was such optimism in the story. Plus, I definitely learned a lot about the plague and the era in reading it!

Sounds Like Crazy by Shana Mahaffey- Such an incredible book! I'll be honest, I felt a little crazy after reading it. Such a great read, though! In this book, a girl with multiple personality disorder struggles to create peace between the five people living in her head. The character development in the story between "the committee" (what the five people in her head are called), her family, therapist, coworkers, and so many others is fantastic and totally spices up the story. This book was probably one of the best books I've read all year, and I bought it totally out of the blue while browsing the "employee recommendations" shelf at Barnes & Noble.

Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak- ENOUGH SAID. Favorite kid's book of all time... this book will never ever get old for me! The movie was so, so different from the book, though.

The Daughter of Time by Josephine Tey- This was another one of those summer reading books that turned out to be way better than I could have ever expected it to be. I didn't need to read this one... I only had to read three summer reading books and I ended up reading six because there was a good list that year. In addition, this book was technically to take AP English, but I was really, really glad that I read it anyway. It gave a really interesting perspective on an inspector who worked at the Scotland Yard, confined to his hospital bed. Bored, he became mesmerized by a painting of Richard III and ended up trying to disprove the case of the Princes in the Tower, where Richard III murdered his two nephews. From then on out, the book just became more and more interesting. It really makes you wish you could go back in time and find out for yourself what the truth is.

Harry Potter Series by J. K. Rowling- I think this is another one that hardly needs explanation. It's absolutely fantastic and I've only met two people in my life who didn't enjoy the books.

The Zombie Survival Guide: Complete Protection from the Living Dead by Max Brooks- Long story short, I officially feel prepared for the zombie apocalypse. Definitely a good read, definitely comedic, definitely highly recommended on my part.

The Narnia Series by C. S. Lewis- I feel like the movies being released for these books don't even do them justice. They're all completely magical books. To explain why I love these books so much, I'm actually going to use part of The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe that isn't even in the story line. The dedication in the beginning of the book reads "My Dear Lucy, I wrote this story for you, but when I began it I had not realized that girls grow quicker than books. As a result you are already too old for fairy tales, and by the time it is printed and bound you will be older still. But some day you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again. You can then take it down from some upper shelf, dust it, and tell me what you think of it. I shall probably be too deaf to hear, and too old to understand, a word you say, but I shall still be your affectionate Godfather, C.S. Lewis". Not only is the dedication beautiful, but it makes a really great point. At any age you can appreciate it as a fairy tale and an enchanting story. And as someone who has read the book many times as a little kid and as an adult, I think this is one story that you find more reasons to love it at every age you read it.

Coffeehouse Angel by Suzanne Selfors- Reading this was kind of like candy for the brain. Hehe. That's what I consider a lot of novels like that, though. Definitely an easy read, very romantic, very quirky, and very fun. Some parts of it are kind of sappy, but I definitely enjoyed reading it in the springtime nonetheless and would certainly read it again. Well written and fun! Which is the point of brain-candy. :)

Cut by Patricia McCormick- This was a very, very heavy read. Especially because I read it in middle school. Despite the morose nature of the story, though, I really enjoyed it. It was a really dark story about a girl who was sexually assaulted in high school at a party, called the police for help, and ended up with an entire high school worth of teenagers angry with her. By the title, I'm sure that you can tell what the girl's coping mechanism was to losing all of her friends, and even friendly acquaintances.

The Giver by Lois Lowry- Short read, fairly easy read, yet one of the best books I've ever read. I read it in middle school, high school, and college for pleasure, not classes. The way it is written is not only artistic and vivid, but it opens your eyes to a world we could be living in. Despite its political undertones (I like to avoid reading into those when reading for pleasure), I could read this book over and over and over again and never be disappointed. Ever.

Obviously this list doesn't include every single book I've ever loved... this is just a top ten. There are many other classics that I loved to read time and time again. But I was thinking about books that I've really enjoyed and lingered on my mind for a while later... and this is just some of them. What are some of your all-time favorites?

Night On Bald Mountain: Modest Mussorgsky

2010-07-02T01:07:00.002-04:00

Some days I miss my bassoon so much it makes me cry.

Around the Bend: The Asteroids Galaxy Tour

2010-06-19T00:37:00.003-04:00

How I shop:

Some people go shopping and they splurge on incredibly expensive items. They show off these items, proud of what they worked so hard for (or maybe didn't work so hard for). Me and my best friend Carolyn? We don't go that way. We like to find good deals. We dig for the steals. If we can find an awesome shirt on clearance for five bucks, not only will we wear it all the time and show it off, but when people comment on it we're happy to say "Yeah, isn't it awesome? I got it for five bucks on clearance at this store!" We're proud of our nifty, thrifty finds. So this is what I do when I go shopping...

First of all, I'm a huge fan of coupons. I think they're totally awesome. If you're buying something solely because you have a coupon for it, that's not a good deal. If you stumble upon a coupon for something that you normally buy or to a store that you frequent, that's rockin'.

Second, SALES ARE THE BEST. When a store is having big sales full of good deals, that's always good. Even better if you can find a good deal on something AND you can use a coupon!!

Third, the first area of a store that I visit is the clearance section. Typically stocked to the brim with out-of-season merchandise, that can be perfect at times. For example, I go to school in Vermont; so it stays colder later in the year than in New Jersey. When I come home for break in February, March, or April, stores are typically already beginning to take a look at spring fashion lines, and therefore pushing out their winter lines as much as inhumanly possible. This is perfect for me, who would love to find a great deal on a rockin' new hoodie to bring back to school where it's still too cold to walk around in a tee shirt! Not to mention, there's always next year.

Very important: If you're not sure about it, you probably shouldn't get it. Unless you know you want it, you can see yourself putting together an outfit (or two, or five) with that item, you know you'll use it no matter what... whatever, don't go for it. Even if it's just a five dollar tee shirt, if you're never going to wear it, that's five dollars you could be using on another shirt. Or dinner at Burger King.

Also, the used CD rack at my local music shop is one of my best friends. I've bought so many fantastic CD's from that rack, super duper cheap. Like... I'm talking between two and five bucks for a CD!!! If that rack doesn't have the CD you're looking for, you're probably out of luck. But I have found some fantastic CD's on that rack, whether I was looking for them specifically or just stumbled upon them. It's always an exciting find.

Now, I am human. I do like nice things and there are, of course, quite often, moments when I find something that is in no way, shape, or form a good deal. And I know that it will more than likely be on clearance in a month or two, but sometimes you JUST WANT THAT DRESS RIGHT AWAY. That can be rewarding, too. Although it feels much more rewarding for me to say I got an awesome deal on something, there are times when I will happily shell out my hard-earned cash for that dress that I happened to experience love at first sight with in the Urban Outfitters display window...

Moving on.

The key to shopping, whether you love a good deal or you love flaunting your immense amount of money, is buy it cause you want it, love it, or need it. Don't buy it if you're not sure, because you'll either regret spending your money on it or forget about it completely. And have fun. I know I personally hate shopping for things when I need them. If I need it, I can never find it. Of course. Regardless, it's always good to make shopping a fun thing. :)

SHOP ON!

Smile by Charlie Chaplin: Glee Cast

2010-06-06T20:45:00.002-04:00

Smile, tho your heart is aching. Smile, even though it's breaking. When there are clouds in the sky, you'll get by. If you smile through your pain and sorrow, smile and maybe tomorrow you'll see the sun come shining through, for you. Light up your face with gladness, hide every trace of sadness. Although a tear may be ever so near. That's the time you must keep on trying. Smile, what's the use of crying? You'll find that life is still worthwhile, if you just smile. Smile tho your heart is aching, smile even thought it's breaking. When there are clouds in the sky, you'll get by. That's the time you must keep on trying. Smile, what's the use of crying? You'll find that life is still worthwhile, if you just smile.

Dream A Little Dream: Glee Cast

2010-06-05T16:27:00.002-04:00

Miss you guys! Hope you're all having an awesome summer! See you in a couple of months!

If It Means A Lot To You (Featuring Sierra Kusterbeck): A Day to Remember

2010-06-03T13:36:00.002-04:00

So, you know when you're growing up and things start to change and you don't feel like you're ready for it? And you want to curl up and stay put because you don't know what's going to happen next? Or maybe you do know what's going to happen next and you don't want it to happen yet?

Holiday From Real: Jack's Mannequin

2010-05-19T10:46:00.001-04:00

Today I am writing to you all from Pittstown, New Jersey. I am here celebrating my one-month with Kyle, and boy has it been a great month! We've adventured our way from Vermont to New Jersey and back again, and despite the difficult distance between the two of us (especially with me having no license or car) we're going to make it work. Granted, it's only been one week home from school. But it's worked so far! This past month went by so fast, but from the mouth of Kyle, "This month hasn't just been a good month. I would call this a great month."

The Brit has spoken.

I Fucking Bleed Purple and Gold: Super Mash Bros.

2010-05-12T14:21:00.003-04:00

It's funny how easy it is to say that you can't do something. When the words "I'm just not good at this... I can't do it." fall out of your mouth, it flows so naturally. But how often do you hear people talk about being good at something? I'm the first to plead guilty to this. I'm very quick to admit that I'm not good at something.

I will never be good at working out chemical equilibrium equations in chemistry. I will never be good at playing contact sports, as I'm definitely not competitive enough, and I tend to be afraid of the ball. I will never be good taking tests, as proven during finals week. Nor will I ever be good at taking care of fish. I'll never be good at making serious commitments. I'll always be absolutely horrible at giving directions. And I'll always be bad at packing up and moving out. There are lots and lots and lots of other things that I am not good at and will never be good at.

However, over time, there are some things that I've grown to know I'll always be good at doing.

I'll always be good at doodling on the side of my notes, and I'll always be good at drawing doodles for friends. I'll always be good at making messes, whether I clean them or not is the bigger question. I'll always be good at dancing around in public without caring about what others may think. I am and will ALWAYS be an excellent shopper. I will always be good at trying new foods (and enjoying them). And The Sims 3? Got that in the bag, I'm a pro.

I guess that my point is, everybody is good at something. And even if the things that you know you'll always be good at are absolutely useless and pointless, you still have skills. Strengths and weaknesses.
The big question is...
Do you let those weaknesses get you down? Or do you stare them down and take them head on?

Pork and Beans: Weezer

2010-05-05T18:17:00.002-04:00

So it's Cinco de Mayo and it's GORGEOUS outside!!! I went on the swings earlier and laid on the hill to watch the lacrosse game. Castleton won again!!! 17-7. Not too shabby, eh?

In addition, I just ate one of the best chocolate bars I've ever had in my life. It's called a Crunchie bar and it is DELICIOUS! It's this brilliant little bar of crystallized honey on the inside and chocolate on the outside! So yummy. And it's an English chocolate bar. Which is really, really cool.

On another awesome note, I have some pretty incredible news. The other day I was going for my run on the rail trail, just like any other day. It was one of the best, worst, and most peculiar runs of my life! What was so bad? It started hailing while I was running! I had already been about three miles in and it was HAILING. Small hail, that's for sure. Really teensy. Almost more like ice rain. But still... not exactly running weather. Especially when you're wearing a tee shirt and sweatpants. No good. But there was one moment when I was first starting when I hit the farm and it was right near the stream. It got nice and warm and sunny. Felt like I was in a movie! And then when I was running back, freezing and numb through the stormy, cold weather, the cross country track coach caught up with me. He asked who I was. I told him, because I recognized him as a professor from the psychology department. And he offered me a spot on the cross country team! He said I'd probably place 7th or 8th on the team, and that by my senior year I'd probably be in good shape for first! I was pretty much amazed, baffled, and dumbfounded by this event. It's not every day I have an awesome athletic opportunity like this, seeing as how I'm not exactly the most athletic person in the world. In fact, I'm the epitome of a geek with my comic books, musical history, and science major! So this is really exciting for me. I think in time I may actually join the team! I just really, really need to keep up with this running so I can get into good shape!

It's amazing how such great things can come from such LAME scenarios.

Interiatic ESP: The Mars Volta

2010-05-03T20:16:00.003-04:00

Fell In Love Without You: Motion City Soundtrack

2010-04-24T16:55:00.002-04:00

Hockey madness, room cleaning, springtime romance, and awesome space shooters!!!
That's a pretty good way to sum up the past several weeks in Jenna-land.

Creative idea of the week: I'm spray painting my Nerf gun (and MAYBE the bullets) to turn into an AWESOME SPACE SHOOTER. Super excited about it! I think it's going to be awesome to run around with. I've gotta find some rockin' space boots, too. We'll see what I can do. I've got plenty of gold spray paint! I think this is going to be soooo cool.

Spring cleaning has sprung for the sixth or seventh time in 307 Ellis! It seems, though, that as soon as it's cleaned, it becomes a mess within the next day or two. Not that that's so bad, Megan and I don't mind living in a mess. But it's still necessary to at least TRY and clean it up. Apparently on Thursday Megan's half of the room was clean, but I missed it as I was in New Jersey. So I'm cleaning my half of the room today!

For Hockey madness, it's unfortunate, but the Devils have LET ME DOWN!!! They lost so badly. And for Megan, GO SABRES!!! They won last night in an INCREDIBLY intense 3-0 game! Hockey playoffs were huge here. In fact, Kyle and I went to see the Devils play in New Jersey at the Prudential Center. They lost sooo bad. But at least they drew some blood on the ice!

And as for spring romance, that Devils game was my first date with Kyle! Even though the Devils lost (badly) we still had lots of fun. And I got to say hello and Happy Birthday to my Daddy and meet all of Kyle's family! Everyone was super nice. I hope I get to see them all again soon in the near future!

Living Dead Girl: Rob Zombie

2010-04-17T21:18:00.002-04:00

Tonight I celebrate my birthday up here in the 802!!!

It's going to be a RIDICULOUS dance party in my teensy little dorm room with Megan, Nick, Kyle, Zack, Patrick, Ash, and Matt! I'm SO PUMPED that Ash and Matt came up this weekend. We can't start until around 10:30/11:00 because everyone (except Megan and I, who finished soundings last year) has to go to Jesus Christ Superstar for their soundings event.

But it's going to be a fun, exciting dance party! EVERYONE IS WEARING PINK! Which completely makes my night. But for now I'm getting pumped up with some Rob Zombie and a Rockstar energy drink. More updates to come! And photos perhaps???!

Flake: Jack Johnson

2010-04-08T23:34:00.003-04:00

As the end of break approaches, I had a great day today! It wasn't as gorgeous at the beach as the past few days have been, but it was still fun (for me, anyway) to bring Megan, Nick, and Kyle to my home beach. I went to work with my dad this morning and got some homework done. Then Megan picked me up and we walked around the Jersey Gardens Outlet Mall and the Woodbridge Mall (fun!) until we met up with Nick and Kyle at her house. We then continued on to my house where I gave Kyle, the only one who hadn't seen my house yet, the "grand tour". In his case, it almost seemed more like the seat tour. He tried every couch and chair, very funny. Thankfully, he approved of all of them. We then continued on to the beach which was windy and horrible. The sand blowing was painful and the wind made if freezing. We spent some time on the rocks where there was no sand, but the cold winds could only be dealt with so long before we moved on to Red Bank fun. We wandered in and out of some shops, enjoyed some delicious Zebu pizza, and hung around Riverside Gardens Park until the sun went down and it was dark out. We then went back to my house where we sat around talking on the back screened-in porch. The adventure ended with a trip to the gas station to help my brother who had unfortunately driven his gas tank dry. After mending that problem, we said our farewells and decided that we would have to go to the beach on a day that it wasn't windy and painful. I'm really enjoying being home, but I think I'm ready to go back to school and kick butt on my last four weeks, too. So we'll see what happens.

Blackbird: The Beatles

2010-04-07T20:49:00.002-04:00

What a break...
So far, break has not been as easygoing as I'd like it to. We've found that my brother may have Celiac disease, which would completely eliminate gluten from his diet. It may explain his sudden spike in anxiety and attitude. It's heartbreaking that he might have this terrible disease, but at the same time this could be the hopeful beginning of his recovery.
On another note, my dad wants me to consider transferring to a New Jersey school, and I'm still trying to decide on what my major and minor are between art and science. So that will be announced in time. Right now I'm thinking, though, that the best decision may very well be to continue with my Biology major and pick up a Studio Art minor to establish a portfolio.
Tonight my next door neighbor had a small stroke, which is seriously concerning. She's always been a great friend; fantastic to talk to, she came to the hospital when I was injured... she's been a fantastic neighbor. One of the best you could possibly ever ask for. I'm really hoping she makes it out alright. She's already been through far more than the average person.
And on a more pleasant note, I've gotten to go to the beach every day this break!!! Totally loves it! I've also had the grand opportunity to enjoy Chinese food, see my friend Joe's new home (gorgeous, by the way) and WAWA!!!! Oh, how I missed you, Wawa. I've also spent lots and lots of time with my family, which is love right there.
So much break, so little time!

Daniel: Elton John

2010-04-04T20:57:00.002-04:00

Is there a song that you can listen to over and over again and never ever get sick of it? Maybe you have a few, maybe you don't even listen to it that often. Maybe you listen to it on repeat and have for years. But everyone has one (or more) song(s) that really mean the world to them. Maybe it's the song that keeps you going, or reminds you of a better time. Maybe it just puts you in a good mood. I know I have at least two of those songs. When I'm listening to those songs, it feels like no matter what happens I can handle it. Those songs for me are Tiny Dancer by Elton John and Brown Eyed Girl by Van Morrison.
Of course, Brown Eyed Girl is a must. It's one of the most important attributes between my mother and I. In a family of blue-eyed babies, I was the one with brown eyes. That song always lightens my spirits, even if just a little bit.
And then there's Tiny Dancer. I have no idea why, but that song makes me so happy. If I'm running, it makes me feel like I can keep going. If I'm angry, it calms me down. If I'm happy, it can only make me happier.
Everyone has songs like those. Weezer referred to all kinds of songs in their song Heart Songs from their album The Red Album. Good album, by the way. It's amazing how you can hear a song every day and still love it, or hear it once in a blue moon and love it just as much. What are YOUR heart songs?

Little Razorblade: Pink Spiders

2010-03-24T22:16:00.003-04:00

So it's 10:16 and I'm on duty in Ellis, rocking out to whatever my heart desires. I'm outrageously hyper and having a blast tonight, but I'm super excited to get off duty and just relax, too. I don't have any classes tomorrow, but will most likely spend most of the day in the library drawing with colored pencils. I've decided for my final colored pencil sketch for biological illustration, I'm going to draw a Mexican Long-tailed Bat. They're pretty cute, actually. They're fuzzy and they have cute noses.
On another note, we've been watching a lot of movies in 307 lately! Today we watched How to Deal, the Mandy Moore flick from back when I was 14 (an old favorite). Yesterday we watched The Perfect Score and The Perfect Getaway. Some other movies I've enjoyed lately include Fired Up (cheerleading!), Zombieland, Bedazzled, and many, many others. In fact, we're about to go and watch another movie! Not sure which movie yet, but I'll keep you guys posted! Just wanted to give a quick update, I'll post a longer one later on. Promise.

Drunken Lullabies: Flogging Molly

2010-03-17T23:54:00.001-04:00

'nuff said.

HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!

Kids: MGMT

2010-03-07T19:17:00.002-05:00

Because I've been such a fabulous slacker over the past few weeks, it's time for me to pick up my game and get back to the place I used to be. So I am making a list of ten things I need to get done and changes I need to make in the next week.

1. Get my schoolwork done again. Even though I am finally caught up, I've got a couple major exams in the next two weeks. It's time to crack down and spend more time in the library. Epic study time GO.

2. Sleep less all day and more at the right hours. Let me put it this way... last night, I stayed up with friends all night long doing pretty much a whole lotta nothing. Some movies, late-night Denny's run, until about 8 am. But then I slept until 6 pm (an hour and twenty minutes ago) today. I spend all day in bed almost every day. I need to get back on track with that and start sleeping at normal hours. Going to bed earlier, waking up more rested.

3. Get my Community Advisor work done. I've got a green-eggs-and-ham St. Patty's day program coming up next week and I've got two bulletin boards that I've been putting off. Time to stop procrastinating and start being a good CA again.

4. It's time for me to start eating like a human being again. No more of this living off of pickles, kool-aide, and cookies bull-shit. It's not healthy. I know it's not healthy. I haven't gotten around to wrapping my mind around getting REAL food, like vegetable matter, since whenever the last time I ran out and got pickles and Oreos instead. I'm gonna try eating human foods this week. Instead of living the dream of a Rugrat. (Sorry, Mom... I'm sure hearing that I haven't been eating well is not what you want to hear.)

5. Go for more walks. In this area, I will give myself a pat on the back. I've been getting out almost every night, at very least every other night, going for a run, jog, or at very least a walk. So I'm going to keep doing that because I think it helps to keep my head clear.

6. Spend less money. I know, Mom. I have been spending waaaay too much lately. I just spent a good chunk of my paycheck (less than half, though) on a dress. So it's time for me to start cutting back and STOP spending so much money. Time to start saving and get back to basics, picking up on things activities that don't cost as much money again.

7. Completely clean out my room throwing stuff away. It looks clean a lot of the time... unless you check out the bottom of my closet, or any of my drawers. This week I'm hoping to clean those out. I think that will help me get a grip and hop back on track.

8. Be a better friend. I know I haven't been a very good friend over the past several weeks. I haven't really been a very good functional human being. So I really want the chance to be a good friend again.

9. PLAY DRESS UP! It always makes me feel good when I get dressed in a nice, well put together outfit for the day. And lately I've been rocking out the sweatpants quite a bit. And as good as that feels, I'm always much more productive when I'm dressed up nicer. It makes me feel good on the inside instead of just comfortable. So I think that might help me in my endeavors.

10. I put this as number ten, but in reality, this may be the most important one yet. Forget about the past. It's over. It's done. And it's time to stop hanging on to what used to be. Everything changes over the course of three and a half years. So it's time to stop dwelling on things that once were and will never be again. It's time to move on.

2010-03-03T03:51:00.003-05:00

http://puppycam.back2mono.de/

EVERYONE NEEDS TO SEE THIS. IT IS SO FREAKIN' ADORABLE. It's actually officially the startup website when I open Firefox... xD

Blah Blah Blah: Ke$ha

2010-03-02T13:50:00.003-05:00

Pancakes! They're delicious, easy to make, and cheap. Gotta love them. And, actually, they're the highlight of my week this week. Thursdays are my absolute favorite day of the week, because Megan (my roommate) and I don't have any classes. So we can both sleep in, hang around the room, and be as lazy or active as we want to be. And this Thursday, we will be making PANCAKES FOR BREAKFAST!! After sleeping in, of course.

And while I was home, my brother made me pancakes almost every day I was home. He made me chocolate chip pancakes with the little miniature chocolate chips that are clearly more delicious, because they're smaller. Brian liked to eat his pancakes with chocolate chips, a fried egg on top, and cheese melted on top of all of it. I thought it sounded pretty gross, but, hey... to each their own, right? My dad isn't the biggest pancake fan, but that's only because he can't put his sriracha hot sauce on it. He puts it on everything. And, actually, after trying a little bit on my eggs, I can say that it's quite tasty. VERY spicy! My mom is another big fan of pancakes with my brother and I, though. She seems to enjoy her pancakes in the most classic way possible, though: fluffy pancakes with maple syrup on top. Classic is always good. I'll probably stick with my chocolate chips whenever possible, though. Heh!

Ordinary Day: Vanessa Carlton

2010-02-15T18:08:00.002-05:00

Today was one of the most relaxing days I've had in weeks. I stayed in bed all day. Watched a little NCIS. Got a little Mc-D's... it's been a real nothing day. I'm lovin it. I needed some Valentine's Day rehab. Yesterday was not a good day.

Moving on, though, now that I'm all better, I will take my Genetics exam and rock it out. I will move on with my life and focus on things that push me in a better direction. I will move on with my life. That's my final decision. I might finish out this day in the laziest fashion possible, but tomorrow will be a new beginning for me. I know it.

And now I'm off to do the homework that I've been putting off like a mopey fool for the past week. Progress starts here.

Wake Up: The Arcade Fire

2010-02-13T00:25:00.002-05:00

HOW. FRICKIN. ADORABLE.

Swing, Swing: The All American Rejects

2010-02-12T23:14:00.002-05:00

It's really strange how you can be around so many people all day long and, at the end of the day, still feel like you're completely alone. I don't know where it comes from or why that happens. And I don't like complaining about things on here, but I feel like I have to get this out somewhere. And right now I feel like it's easier to type it out than verbally spit it out. I'm not feeling myself, and I've actually been channeling Holden Caulfield (which makes me feel at least a little MAJORLY insane). Ian and I broke up one week ago. Although I know, based on our schedules and where our brains are at now, that this is probably for the best for the time being. But it's still heartbreaking. I'll get back in the swing of things soon enough, though, I'm sure. Positive thinking can change everything, right? Positive thinking... positive thinking.

Anyway, I know that wasn't exactly the most uplifting post. But I had to get it out.

Vicinity of Obscenity: System of a Down

2010-02-08T12:25:00.004-05:00

101 important things about me... that maybe you DIDN'T know:
PS: After reading through these, they aren't NEARLY as important as I wish they were.....

1. My favorite color is yellow, but I sometimes stray to purple or orange. Very rarely do I feel pink, but it happens.

2. I have very a very eclectic taste in music... everything from Britney to System of a Down to Billie Holiday to Ben Harper to Wolfgang Amadeus. The list goes on and on.

3. I'm addicted to www.postsecret.com. If you've never been there before, you must go and check out this week's secrets. They're always riveting. And if you like those, there are a few books out, too. They're all good as well.

4. Pirates are better than ninjas. End of story.

5. Megan Davis, my roommate, is the BEST roommate ever. Also end of story.

6. I ALWAYS wanted a guy to sing "you are my sunshine" to me. Sounds cheesy. Like.... majorly cheesy. Buuut even just a line from it would make me smile from ear to ear.

7. I'd take a juice box over a soda ANY day of the week.

8. My favorite flowers are daffodils, followed by daisies with a close second.

9. My favorite animal is bats. They're totally sick.

10. The best musicians I've ever seen in concert would include Lights, Streetlight Manifesto, Westbound Train, and Suburban Legends.

11. I can rock out some awesome coffee concoctions. And I bet that even if you SAY you don't like coffee, I can probably get you to like coffee.

12. I think that Minnie fishy is pregnant...

13. On the topic of pregnancy, I am absolutely scared-shitless-petrified by the idea of childbirth.

14. I love video games. Especially any Katamari game and anything I can get into a huge car crash in. And tetris; I can totally rock out some tetris.

15. I have an undying love for Ryan Reynolds. (PS: Ryan Reynolds, if you happen to stumble upon this, CALL ME!)

16. I have my religion on facebook set to "Karma" because I don't know what I believe in... but I know I believe in that.

17. I love learning about genetics.

18. My favorite childrens book (and possibly book of all time) is Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak.

19. I want to go to Disney with the Muppets REALLY REALLY bad. (Although, I wouldn't mind going to Disney without them. But going with them would make it SO MUCH COOLER!)

20. I've played every Sims game (including all expansions) from The Sims (orig.) to The Sims 3 World Adventures.

21. I played several instruments in high school, my favorites being Bassoon, Flute, Trumpet, and Tuba/Sousaphone.

22. On the subject of music, I'm addicted to basslines.

23. I live about five miles from the beach and love the ocean. It's especially beautiful when the sun comes up, if you ever get the chance. East coast, rock on.

24. I find putting a new pair of socks on very inspiring.

25. Fact: Plastic turtles look just like real turtles sometimes. Exhibit A: My turtle, Shelly.

26. I'm a tea drinker.

27. My dream car is a black punch buggy.

28. I love rocking out to Tiny Dancer by Elton John.

29. I'm really, really scared of horror movies. Like, can't watch ANY. ALL of them scare me.

30. If you haven't been to www.sporcle.com yet, you should. It's super-addicting fun.

31. I LOVE Christmas music. I listen to it all year round, much to the dismay of many around me.

32. Some of my favorite boardgames include: Clue, Scrabble, and Taboo.

33. I kind of REALLY want to be a dolphin trainer someday.

34. I compulsively buy pens. Especially when they're cool and brightly colored.

35. I love liquid eyeliner, courtesy of Carolyn Hodge.

36. Carolyn Hodge is my bffae.

37. I don't have a favorite food because I like too many.

38. In my opinion, my favorite part of Home Depot is the lighting section. Note: **ROMANTIIIIC!** hahaha...

39. I have a copy of The Wizard of Oz by Frank Baum in both my dorm room and my room at home. It's another favorite read.

40. I've had a teddy bear for a VERY long time named Benton, and he is there for me when no one else is. No matter what.

41. I've always wanted to go to New Orleans for Mardi Gras and always will.

42. I've seen The Devils (hockey) play three times.

43. I love James Bond.

44. I'm a big Mets fan, despite the fact that they SUCK... gotta love 'em.

45. I like to think I'm like Luna Lovegood from Harry Potter (she's awesome).

46. I have a sticker collection. And it's really cool.

47. I also have a toy box in my room at school. It's pretty random, but enjoyable nonetheless.

48. I love to bake... and do. OFTEN.

49. Because I can't keep flowers in my non-existent black punch buggy's bud vase, I keep them in the little hole on my bedpost.

50. My favorite TV series are Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel The Series (definitely Buffy before Angel, though). I have all seven and five seasons on DVD.

51. I've been in two Shakespearean plays before.

52. If I ever have a wedding, it will most likely be to the Flash. ♥

53. My two favorite Disney movies are The Jungle Book and The Little Mermaid.

54. I like to drink juice and lemonade out of martini glasses... makes me feel fancy.

55. TED.com is a fantastically interesting website. Please, even if you only go and watch ONE video, please do. They have some really great speakers on there.

56. I can speak a minimal (but sufficient) amount of French.

57. I hate the Twilight series.

58. But I love the Harry Potter series.

59. I was absolutely obsessed with The Nightmare Before Christmas for a long period of time and saw it 100 times between April 1st and June 11th in 2003.

60. If you put on The Nightmare Before Christmas, I could probably STILL recite it word for word.

61. Nick Minarik's canary sings along to "In This Moment". I know, that one has NOTHING to do with me. But I thought it was really cool.

62. I had a pet mouse named Camilla, Cammy for short, after the Street Fighter. (I know the Street Fighter's real name was Cammy, but I felt like she'd be the kind of mouse who would WANT a nickname over a real name.)

63. I once had a dog named Hunter. I still miss him.

64. My brother looks a lot like Edward Cullen. Eerily like Edward Cullen, actually.

65. I went to Otakon in Baltimore one year (Otakon, for those of you who don't know, is an anime convention) and I only knew two and a half animes. Needless to say, I spent most of that time in the game room. But it was definitely a blast, I got to know a lot more anime, and I would definitely do it again.

66. I think that I'm going to watch The Nightmare Before Christmas after I finish this... for anyone who needed to know that.

67. I went to school in Vermont despite the fact that I had never been skiing, snowboarding, or ice skating.

68. I've now been skiing once and ice skating twice.

69. And although I don't ski or snowboard, I love snow (sosososo much).

70. I think that www.sinfest.net is one of the funniest webcomics on the internet.

71. I was in the marching band, orchestra, chamber orchestra, select choir, tower singers, concert band, symphonic band, and jazz ensemble in high school (I think that's all of them....)

72. My brother's birthday is on national hangover day: the day after St. Patrick's day.

73. Someday when I live in my own house, I will lots and lots and lots of pets. Including a Newfoundland puppy, a bat, a turtle, and a teacup maltese.

74. In the time it's taken me to type this post, my iTunes has played through probably 3 or 4 CD's.

75. As touristy and silly as it is, I really want to go to the four corners (Utah, New Mexico, Colorado, and Arizona) someday so that I can be in four places at once.

76. Fact: John Williams is da man.

77. I still get excited by the first day of any new season.

78. I love coloring with crayons even though I'm almost 20 years old.

79. Fact: I turn 20 in June! Didn't think about that one... wow. That's really weird. Ugh. I feel old now.

80. I have an orange iPod. And I listen to it everywhere I go.

81. Although Ariel is my favorite Disney Princess, I have Tinkerbell on my wii-motes.

82. Crayons make physics sooo much better. Go to www.crayonphysics.com, fo sho.

83. My laptop's name is Franz Ferdinand and he wears a sombrero.

84. My coffee maker's name is Elvis Presley.

85. I've been to the New York City Car Show four years in a row.

86. Lola is one of my favorite names. Ever.

87. Fact: The song "The Idiots are Taking Over" by NOFX is written about George W. Bush.

88. I had braces for seven years.

89. Fact: Sex is a natural antihistamine.

90. I don't like roller coaster rides. I'm a huge scaredy-cat.

91. I looove skeeball! Totally kick ass at it, too.

92. I'm terrible at bowling, but love to bowl.

93. I used to be a dancer.

94. I also used to be a basketball player.

95. You will never hear me say that I was a musician, but you will hear me say that I played instruments or played in *insert name here* group. There's a difference to me.

96. I was 8 points away from making the New Jersey All-State Choir my junior year of High School.

97. I really, REALLY want to hang out with LIGHTS! So bad. And Carolyn Hodge. The three of us should really just chill sometime. It'll be good.

98. I get really excited when I talk about science sometimes.

99. I have two completely different eyes, and my right ear has an elf point.

100. I love Christmas lights! And Christmas in general... but I'm Jewish. So I celebrate Hanukkah, as well! December's a good month.

101. The furthest west I've been is Pennsylvania... and it wasn't that far west into Pennsylvania. But I've been as far north as Canada and as far south as Florida (but not Disney). And nothing between Maryland and Florida.

The Boogie Monster: Gnarls Barkley

2010-01-23T20:17:00.015-05:00

Our glorious dorm room!
Megan and I are VERY proud of our dorm room... we worked very hard to make it look cozy and comfy with our lights and layout and wall decorations. So, I am sharing with all of you our fortress of solitude!

Starting with my desk... where all of the boring work happens.

My bed!!!

Kristen! Our next-door-neighbor.

Megan and Tucker on Megan's bed and at Megan's desk.

Megan's desk!

My wall of photos above my bed.

Megan's TV + our dresser.

Where I usually am!

My fridge! Which unfortunately resides in Megan's closet, right now... aren't the magnets FUN?!

And on the inside....

Kool Aid Jammers!!! This is gangster-status, here. Some college students have their fridge fully stocked with beer like this, but no. Megan and I? We keep it cool with Kool Aid.

Wine Red: The Hush Sound

2010-01-20T12:49:00.003-05:00

Today is a great day. I woke up this morning and Megan told me right off the bat: "I think today is going to be a good day!" And she was most definitely right. So off to class we went in our bright green (Megan) and bright yellow (Me) long-sleeved shirts, ready to battle the cold, when we found it wasn't that cold at all! And after eating breakfast, we continued on to brave the first full day of school. Which was, for me and for her (from what I've been hearing), very good!!! I can tell right away I'm going to be really enjoying class this semester. Genetics will be challenging, but I need that. And I'm looking forward to it because although it's really hard, it's so, so interesting. And then there's Botany!!! I think that may be my favorite class this semester! Although I don't have biological illustration until Friday... so we'll see. In Chem, I already learned more than I learned last year. Thankfully I don't need to do the labs again. I'm more-or-less auditing the class again. My teacher last year was absolutely terrible. Although I passed the class just fine, and even better than most others in the class (or so I learned from the number of people who failed it and are re-taking it), I didn't learn SQUAT. So I'm really looking forward to taking it again with Mango, who is supposed to be a great teacher. And, thus far, I can see why people would say so! Unlike my old chem lecture, people actually raise their hands and ask questions, and she fully answers them. She's just, all in all, a better teacher. And now that I've gone off on that rave, I'm going to stop talking about classes for now!

In the next few days I should be posting photos of our dorm room... it's so comfy and cozy now! I really think I do need a roommate to be totally comfortable in my living quarters. I'm not a "living alone" kind of person. I like living with friends or family. And you can really tell from the transformation my room has made since Megan moved in! It looks so much more comfortable and welcoming! You'll just have to wait and see!

On another note, I'm going to put a word out there for all of the students who made a New Years Resolution to do better in school (or anyone else, for that matter!) A major part of brain function is the vitamins and minerals your body is taking in. So that diet you just hopped on to fulfill your New Years Resolution to lose weight might not be the best for you! But if you are so determined to stick with it, here are some vitamins you might want to consider picking up from your local pharmacy:

Vitamin B12: This vitamin is essential to your body's metabolic functions. Your body has a natural chemistry that needs fatty acids, which includes B12. Some of the biggest benefits of B12? It's great for the nervous system, brain, and blood cell production, and it's ENERGIZING!

Fish Oil: This vitamin, although it is often times quite smelly, can be found in the "odorless" variety, as well. But it is very rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are great protectors against heart disease. On top of that, the Omega-3's found in fish oil have been found to protect against some cancers (like breast, colon, and prostate cancer), it's great for eyesight, and help improve depression and other mental disorders, as well. But how can this particular vitamin help out an aspiring, determined student? Not only can it help in weight regulation (watch that freshman fifteen!!!), but it has also been found to help CONCENTRATION, even in students with ADD and ADHD.

Vitamin D: If you're on a multi-V, this might not be important. Same if you're going to school in an area that you get lots of glorious sunshine. But as a Vermont student, I don't get too much of that in the winter. What's my remedy? Vitamin D! It's a vitamin that is found in many fishes, eggs, and, most importantly from sunshine. But if you're in the same boat as me, Vitamin D is often ignored in the winter time. But what's so great about Vitamin D that it's worth taking supplements when the sun isn't quite shining like you wish it was? It's been shown to help IMMUNE HEALTH and MOOD IMPROVEMENT. And what student doesn't need that?

Vitamin C: Immune system, immune system, immune system!!! When you're living in a dorm room with hundreds of other students, it's very tough to avoid getting sick. Especially if you're being social! But one good way to try and help out your immune system is Vitamin C supplements and consuming lots of Vitamin C-rich foods, especially fruits (more fruits than you probably know off the top of your head are rich in vitamin C!) So, if you don't want to miss class from being sick (which you DON'T :P), this might help your IMMUNE SYSTEM keep you healthy!

Those are just a few that I take to get me through the school year, winter especially. So, who knows! Maybe they'll help you, too!

Chase This Light: Jimmy Eat World

2010-01-06T17:05:00.002-05:00

My creative juices are flowing. I'm getting some ideas. After a full semester of being a C.A. and realizing just how much I miss drawing, I had this interesting idea. In a childrens-book format, "In Case of Emergency..." The story will be about possible scenarios and what to do when they happen. And the best part? It would work for so many different groups of people. There could be an "In Case of Emergency... College Edition!" or perhaps "In Case of Emergency... Babysitter Edition!" It could be a gift for a new parent or young adults finally on their own. Maybe there could even be a fill in the blank section with important numbers and stuff. Has this been done already? I'm guessing it has. But I was pretty excited when I thought of it. Hahaha.

Let me know what you think. I'm thinkin' it could be fun to illustrate it. Things you think would be common sense, but maybe they're not.

3: Britney Spears

2009-12-27T18:15:00.002-05:00

I know, I know. It's been a very long while since I last updated. But I am now, as I enjoy the new shoesies that I got for Christmas (thanks, Mom!) and my nice big bottle of seltzer water (I love being home!).

Winter break! So much to do, so little time! My dad and I have not yet made our annual visit to Joe's Meat Market in Perth Amboy, New Jersey. Usually we make the trek on Christmas Eve-day. It's one of those places that's very, very special to us. I love it when we walk in and the smell of all of the smoked meats fill my nose. Delicious. Even when I was a vegetarian, I loved going there and looking at all of the foreign candies and smelling the delicious meats. I'm hoping we can still go while I'm home. I think it'll still happen.

Last night I saw Sherlock Holmes. What a great movie! Soo up my alley. I would definitely recommend seeing it. If you do, call me. I wouldn't mind seeing it again. Seriously, it was that good. The cast chosen was perfect. And they really upheld the integrity of the legendary Sherlock Holmes.

And, with New Years creeping up quick, I have made a decision that I think will be very beneficial in 2010. New Years resolutions? NOPE! Kicking them to the curb. Forget about 'em. I never actually completely follow through with them anyway! So what's the point? This year, I am not going to be making ANY New Years resolutions! I am going to go into 2010 with an open mind and only the highest sense of optimism and hope for the best. I'll continue to work my hardest, but I am NOT going to torture myself one more year with a whole bunch of New Years resolutions that I know that I will not keep. For those of you out there who stick with your New Years resolutions year by year, I definitely commend you. That's some SERIOUSLY impressive stuff. But after trying to make resolutions to stick to year in and year out, in the end, I never follow through on them. So...

2010, HERE I COME!

Saviour: Lights

2009-12-16T19:33:00.001-05:00

I will get one of these pups someday. ;]

Abracadabra: Sugar Ray

2009-12-08T23:17:00.002-05:00

ALL ABOUT CUCUMBERS!
Did you know...
Raw cucumber, when applied on the skin, can help reduce heat and inflammation?
The diuretic, cooling and cleansing property of cucumber makes it good for skin?

If you didn't, here's a few more!

Fresh cucumber juice can provide relief from heartburn, acid stomach, gastritis and even ulcer.
Placing a cucumber slice over the eyes not only soothes them, but also reduces swelling.
Daily consumption of cucumber juice helps control cases of eczema, arthritis and gout.
Cucumber has been found to be beneficial for those suffering from lung, stomach and chest problems.
The potassium in cucumber makes it useful for the problem of high and low blood pressure.
Cucumber contains Erepsin, the enzyme that helps in protein digestion.

And if you didn't know those ones... DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Being rich in minerals, cucumber helps prevent splitting of nails of the fingers and toes?!
Cucumber has been associated with healing properties in relation to diseases of the kidney, urinary bladder, liver and pancreas?!
Those suffering from diabetes have been found to benefit from the consumption of cucumber/cucumber juice?!?!

OH MAN!

And finally... did you know that cucumbers are a decent source of Magnesium, good source of Phosphorus, and a great source of Vitamin B9 and Potassium?! Something to think about.

And maybe chew on.

So pick up your very own cucumber for (usually) less than a dollar today! And chomp it, slice it, carry it along with you! Put it in your water, eat it up! It's good for you.

There's Always Someone Cooler Than You: Ben Folds Five

2009-12-04T14:10:00.004-05:00

Today I am angry. There are some people who are so ignorant that it makes me want to scream and cry. I don't understand how one person can think that they are always right. Or how they could put themselves up on such a high pedestal, as if they are completely and totally untouchable. Even our president, Barack Obama, has explained that some of the choices he's made this year may not have been the best choices. He knew he didn't deserve that Nobel Peace Prize... but there is no turning back from it. The best that you can do is just accept it, explain that you were wrong, and move on from it. But so many people, even after it's very clear they have made the mistake, do not take it back. Anyway, this is an entry hosted by my absolutely fabulous (cough, cough) co-worker.

On a slightly more pleasant note, FRIDAY! It's finally Friday! I'm on duty tomorrow, :P which pretty much sucks terribly. But whatever... doesn't matter. It's still Friday, and even though I'm on duty again tomorrow night, I'm not on duty tonight. And there aren't any classes for the next two days. Hooray, weekend. Can't wait to go home anymore. Soooo excited. And Megan will be moving in soon, too! Which is exciting. Because I really, really missed having a roommate. It's lonely living alone. Not for me. Definitely not.

The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived: Weezer

2009-12-01T12:59:00.002-05:00

So Megan is moving back in with me in the next couple of weeks... I'm really, really excited to have a room mate again. I always liked having someone to come back home to and hang out with and say goodnight to. I enjoyed that. I'm not a "single dorm" kind of person. I don't like the idea of living alone in a dorm room. It hasn't been nearly as fun as having a roomie EVER has been. So that's supa good news.

On a not so fun note, FINALS. Ugh! Or, in the words of Kayle, "F.I.N.A.L.S.: Fuck, I never actually learned that shit...." Yeah. About that. My finals schedule is REALLY bad, too. I have one on Monday, one on Tuesday, two on Wednesday, one on Thursday, and one on Friday. Granted two of those days, Monday and Tuesday, I don't actually need to go. In those two classes I have final papers, not exams. :P Thankfully, one of my hardest classes is Friday. But my other really hard class is Wednesday. My first exam Wednesday ought to be tough. But my second exam will be a cake walk, as it is for French 1. Thursday I have stats, so although it isn't my FAVORITE class I think that it will be alright. So I guess it isn't actually THAT bad. It's just that dreading, anxious feeling in the pit of your stomach that makes finals feel like the worst experience of your life.

On another note, as soon as I'm done with that last final on Friday, HOME! That's the end of the semester! And so will begin winter break (my favorite break). Because over winter break is CHRIIISSSTTMAAS! I love Christmas more than most people would... I listen to Christmas music all year round. I love it!

Anyway, off to do everything I've been procrastinating on ALL DAY. 5 chapters of Darwin, cleaning my room, got a paper to write, homework to do... Sounds fun, huh? Eh. I make the best of it. I MAKE IT fun. :D

Split Needles: The Shins

2009-11-23T21:41:00.003-05:00

With Thanksgiving quickly approaching, I am reminding myself of what I'm thankful for and creating my yearly Christmas list to give to all the aunts and uncles on Turkey Thursday. As every year, the prices range from far too expensive to less than ten dollars (may as well dream big, no?)

I'm thinking about buying Bellatrix a new tank or some kind of decoration for Christmas. She's been a good fishy this year... I may as well treat her to something. As for everyone else in the family, I'm not sure yet. It's always so tough shopping for them. I hate buying them random stuff they want or giving them money or giftcards because I feel like since I'm family I should be buying them something that will MEAN something. I was considering adopting each of their favorite wild animals from the World Wildlife Fund, but I'm still not entirely sure if I can even afford it. They would be supplied with a certificate stating that they have adopted the animal and, if I put out enough money per person, they will receive a stuffed animal, too. I put the Vampire Bat on my Christmas list, because bats are my favorite animal. They're so cool!

What's another big one on my Christmas list this year? A star. I would love a star registered in my name. That would totally make me melt as a romantic gift from the hunny... hopefully he got my hint of "It looks sparkly, but I can't actually touch it. I can only see it at certain times of the day, and I can see more of them in Vermont than in New Jersey." I think that just about does it. He understood that I was talking about a star... oh well. I feel badly that I can't go all out for his Christmas presents this year. But I'm kind of skimping on everyone's gifts. I can't afford too much. But I think that what I DO have in store for everyone will be special.

I can't believe I'm talking about Christmas THIS MUCH this early! Shame on me. Thanksgiving hasn't even come yet.

At any rate, I'm more than excited to go home tomorrow night, now. I'm antsy. Can't possibly stay in my seat any longer!!! And so, I am off to go and pack for tomorrow night. At 7:00 pm. When I will go home. Probably won't be back home until Wednesday, but that's a-o-k with me! Because I am SOOO EXCITED TO GO HOME!

Alpha Beta Parking Lot: Cake

2009-11-22T19:21:00.006-05:00

As Bellatrix and I chill out in my dorm room, I am fantasizing about my own bed back home in New Jersey. It's amazing... You leave for school and eventually you forget how much better your bed at home is. And then you go home for your first break and sleep in it and you remember. And usually once you go back to school you forget again, but no. Not this time. This time, I've been craving MY bed since day one.

That's Bellatrix. She's my fishy companion. I wasn't going to get a fish this year, I have a really bad habit of killing them. But when I saw her she had so much spunk. And she was the only bluish-purplish female betta fish I have ever seen in my life. Usually the females are reddish or yellowish or ickish. But she is one of a kind. And when she gets angry, she shows stripes. When she's happy, she's super vibrant and blue. She's like a moodfish. And at two dollars and change, she was one of the best purchases I've made all year up here.

As much as I have enjoyed my classes this past semester, I'm very excited to start up with some new subjects come January. I still have the same professors, for the most part. But there are a couple new ones thrown in there. The class that I'm MOST excited to take? Biological Illustration. After using bio-illustration to study for exams in all of my classes, I'm thinking it's a field that I may consider going into one day. It's always a possibility. I'm also taking an internship next semester in Biological Illustration. I'll be illustrating the anatomy and physiology lab books for my advisor and professor, Brad Coupe. We'll see how that goes. I'm hoping it will be fun, but you never know. That's the point of an internship, though. Right? To gain experience to help determine what direction you really want to go in for your upcoming career post-college?

But until then, I will continue sipping my hot chocolate and doing my homework (of course, with the assistance of my brilliant, one of a kind fish, Bellatrix).

On Tuesday night (more like Wednesday morning) I finally go home. Just in time to help my mom set up the house for Thanksgiving... it ought to be quite the adventure. From what she tells me about what she did changing furniture in the house and switching things up, I'm pretty excited to see what it looks like now. I have a feeling I'm going to walk in the door and be speechless, as she is quite the decorator. And from the way she describes it, it's looking fantastic. I know, it's something that's kind of silly to look forward to when I go home. But I love going home to find the house different every time. Most people would look forward to go home only to find the house exactly as it was when they left. But I love to see that things are still moving forward and progressing while I'm gone. :) Just goes to show, life goes on.