Little Jenny, Big World

Jenny Reviews: Blood Red Road (Dustlands #1)

2011-09-12T12:32:00.000-04:00

Title of book(s): Blood Red Road

Author: Moira Young

Age Group: YA

Visit the official website here.

I first found out about Blood Red Road when googling "Hunger Games". There was an article that mentioned that this book gave the Hunger Games a run for its money. Now, I can say that the Hunger Games series are my top books; I absolutely love them. So, at first, I was skeptical and upset. I put off reading the book for a while. When Borders started having their going-out-of-business sale, I hurried to buy as many books as I could. One of them was Blood Red Road. Right away I was thrown off; there are NO quotation marks and the words are spelled by the sounds they make. For the first few pages I struggled. I had to go back and read parts to make sure I understood. This was difficult for me since I tend to correct grammatical errors in Facebook updates of other people... Anyhoo, eventually I became enveloped in the storyline. I forgot about the writing style. I easily understood the dialogue. The plot was very captivating. It is the story of 18-yr old Saba, daughter and sister. She lives with her family in Silverlake, where there is hardly any "lake" left. When the most important thing in her life is taken away from her, she is forced to take action. She is reminiscent of Katniss Everdeen from the Hunger Games (she even picks up a bow and arrow). I was not fond of Saba in the beginning. She was somewhat bratty and carried a lot of anger with her, taking it out on her helpless younger sister. Eventually, I grew to understand her when I would ask myself, "Would I do the same in her situation?" Saba meets a lot of interesting folks along her journey, and it is scary to think of living in that world. This book contains love, devotion, plenty of action and excitement, and in my case, it kept me asking myself "What would I do?" It wasn't just another dystopian novel. Would I say it was better than the Hunger Games... not in my opinion, but this was just the first book of the Dustlands series, so ask me on a later date.

Ratings

Blood Red Road: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Remembering: 10 Years Later

2011-09-11T13:06:00.000-04:00

All images found on Huffington Post.

Read about how I remember 9/11/01 here.

Immaturity

2011-08-31T22:22:00.000-04:00

Only the second week of the Fall semester and I feel like pulling my hair out. However, it really has nothing to do with classwork, homework, or anything like that. I simply enjoy seeing how twenty-something college students turn into little pesky 5 year olds. I should probably explain.

I was in class this afternoon with some good friends. We decided to take a lot of classes together since we all plan on completing our internship and graduating at the same time. Anyhoo, we have to take classes on how to teach each subject area. Today we had Science. So far I am enjoying it; lots of activities and creative projects to do. Our professor told us to think about a particular scientist to do a project on. I had chosen three, just in case I did not get the one I wanted (1. Galileo 2. Newton 3. Marie Curie). A girl at a different table asked the teacher if we could sign up for them today, she said no, but that we could email her with our choice and first-come-first-serve. That second my friends and our two new friends at our table of five took out our phones and sent emails with our choice. The other girl asked again if we could just do it today. The professor said no, and to send an email to her. Another girl asked if she could just tell her after class. She said that was fine. I raised my hand and explained that would not be fair to those students who had followed instructions and sent emails. I also said it would not be fair to those who did speak to her because they would not know if their choice had already been taken by someone who sent as email. Still with me?

I guess she got fed up and said we'd sign up today. She let us go at it. Just imagine. Well, my friend and I rushed as quickly as possible to the sign-up sheet and were able to put our entire group's choices. Lucky us. And then we got the ugly faces from the other girl's table. They began saying that we talked too much, were annoying, and being ridiculous. Just loud enough for my table to hear. It just so happens that one of my friends and the girl chose the same scientist -- go figure. My friend was upset because she had sent the email before anyone and it was not fair. I told her it was fine, and that she got it first. Cue the evil stares from the other table. Now we could only laugh. It really is ridiculous. And so the other girl played the "good person" and said she would change it, causing the professor to feel bad. Real classy, I'd say.

This lovely class was followed by another where people don't care for your opinions.

So, why ask me if you don't care?

Overall, what a great day, huh?

It feels so good to vent.

Has this happened to anyone? How'd you deal with it? I try to play it off, but it upsets me to think that people act this way. It basically ruined my entire day.

What I Am Loving Right Now

2011-08-10T17:02:00.000-04:00

Wedding Bells.

2011-08-09T20:35:00.000-04:00

Hold on... don't get ahead of yourselves.

No wedding bells in my near future. :)

However, my best friend is getting married, and I'm ecstatic.

So, if you guys know any great wedding blogs and such, send me an e-mail or leave me a comment. I'll be sure to pass them on to her. Yay for weddings!

Where Have I Been?

2011-08-08T21:03:00.000-04:00

Where have I been? Here and there. Really just school and work. Sounds intriguing right?

What have I been up to? A lot of assignments. I'm working on my final as we speak, or as I write actually.

What am I waiting for? Just one more class left before I'm free for the summer... all of one week. Then, it's right back to the grind. I'm taking six classes next semester. Please pray that I live to see another semester. I'm so desperate to graduate already. Six classes... what was I thinking?!

I have been M.I.A. from the blogging world completely for about two weeks. I checked some of my favorite blogs today, though. I'm trying to finish this darn final tonight. It's so tedious. It's easy, just so annoying. I hate assignments like this. I am so happy that my last class for the summer is on Wednesday. On top of all this, I have work every day. I've been getting a lot of hours do to vacations and we are short one teller. When's my vacation, you ask? Ha! The first week of the fall semester. THAT.MAJORLY.SUCKS.

What I Am Loving Right Now

2011-07-24T15:31:00.001-04:00

Borders is having their "going-out-of-business" clearance sale.

I was in heaven.

I even got this super cute owl bag. :)

Half Baked

2011-07-21T22:43:00.000-04:00

We're having a small party on Saturday over at my friend's house. All kinds of awesome. I tried out some recipes today for some cupcakes. I was shaking in my flip-flops as I was mixing everything together. I can cook, but I freak out when I bake. I tend to use out-of-the-box mixes, because, I mean, how hard can it be to mess those up? So, I am starting off small. I wanted to make banana cupcakes. I found this super cute cooking blog called How Sweet It Is, and sure enough she had a recipe for me. I also like this site called Ming Makes Cupcakes (over 30 cupcake recipes). I kind of mixed and matched the recipes to my liking. I used a golden cake mix as the base and mashed two bananas. I tasted the batter and it tasted yummy. So far so good. I put the cupcakes to bake and got started on the frosting. Now that really was from scratch. It turned out to be my favorite part. I followed the peanut butter frosting recipe from here. I put in half the butter, though. It tasted fine to me. She wrote it may be really thick, and it was, so I added some milk like she said. Good to go! It tasted delicious. Once the cupcakes cooled, I frosted and got to tasting. I am very happy with the result. I didn't take pictures because my kitchen looked like a hurricane had come through. And also because this was just a trial run. Tomorrow night I will be making the actual batch that I will use for the party. Cross your fingers for me...

Mobile Loads

2011-07-18T14:43:00.000-04:00

I've had all of these pictures on my phone, some for months, others only a few hours. I always forget to post them. I forget to do lots of things. Buuuut, now you can see them all at once.

Mockingjay emblem for a special occasion.

Found a bow and arrow.

What a hoot of a ring; my favorite.

Drinks with friends on a Friday night.

Miami weather: gross and wet to nice and sunny. Identity crisis.

Potato chips with zingers.

Delicious margarita.

Trip to the Hunger Games set? Yes, please.

Dirty worms treat for a late night movie session.

My finished ABC book for class.

X Factor auditions = bleeding ears.

All my little penguins for my ABC book.

Nevada tag: Area 51?!

Best friend and I at Taylor Swift concert.

Amazing concert!

Little brother graduated 5th grade.

So... he gets the most awesome shirt ever. :)

What I Am Loving: Summer TV Edition

2011-07-17T15:27:00.001-04:00

Let's Hit [delete]

2011-07-12T23:46:00.001-04:00

If there is one thing I hate it is bullying. I was watching the Today Show the other day and they had on this girl who was tried along with other friends for bullying a girl to death. I cried. I couldn't help it. How can people be that cruel to another human being? Words are a powerful weapon that can be used for good and evil. These girls decided to go the evil route. What bothered me the most was that the girl said she never bullied, that she was just trying to help a friend. I was so angry the whole day. Worst, because she was a minor, it would get erased from her record. She lives her life, and yet that poor girl had to lose her's. Wow. It breaks my heart when I see things like this going on. You'd think that after all the poor souls who paid with their lives some progress would have been made, but kids just do not learn their lessons. That is why I was so happy when I saw that ABC Family and Seventeen Magazine teamed up for [delete] Digital Drama. It's great to see people taking initiative to stop cyber-bullying and bullying as a whole. So, if you want to do something simple to help, just put a [delete] banner on your Facebook or Twitter profile picture. Let's bring some awareness to bullying and make a difference! :)

Stars from ABC Family shows showing off their [delete] shirts.

What I Am Loving Right Now

2011-07-10T14:44:00.000-04:00

1. Miller's Ale House (best wings!)

2. Food Network Magazine

3. Mumford & Sons (loooooooove!)

4. Cityville: Hometown for the iPad

5. Mangos (I love when they're in season.)

6. Passion Iced Tea Lemonade from Starbucks

Jenny Reviews: The Maze Runner Trilogy

2011-07-09T15:03:00.000-04:00

Title of book(s): The Maze Runner (#1); The Scorch Trials (#2)

Author: James Dashner

Age Group: YA

Visit James Dashner's site here.

I was in my cousin's room when I found these two books on his shelf. I could have sworn I had heard of them before. Sure enough, I had. One of my most favorite blogs, Busy Bee Lauren, had put them up on her book recommendations. I basically trust all her recommendations since she posted about a little book called The Hunger Games. Have you heard of it? Do you know how in love I am with those books? Exactly. So, after I realized this, I asked my cousin if they were good. He said I could take them to read. I did, of course. I love me a good book, or two, or six. I started reading The Maze Runner right away. I was pretty fascinated with the story. The protagonist is "Thomas", and he has no idea who he is. He wakes up in a box, and lands in The Glade, being stared down by countless teenage boys. Why is he there? Who are these people? Who sent him? And why does he not recollect anything? Well, I'm not going to tell you, so go get a copy. It took me a while to finish reading the first book. I was trying to take in all the information. However, once I got towards the end, I couldn't stop reading. It caused me a severe headache from all the seriously-s I was saying. I started on The Scorch Trials soon after and fell in love. It was amazing. I found it to be better than the first. It also managed to piss me off a lot more than the first. Thomas is told not to trust anything he sees or hears, and they had me going nuts trying to figure out what was going to happen next. In the end, I got a cliffhanger, and I can say honestly that I despise cliffhangers. So now I must wait until October when the final installment, The Death Cure, comes out. Seriously?!

Ratings

The Maze Runner: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

The Scorch Trials: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

For the Love of Shoes

2011-06-25T17:12:00.000-04:00

There are two things I love going shopping for: handbags and shoes.
Shoes, in my opinion, can make the outfit.
Here are some of my recent online window-shopping finds. :)

1-4: Candie's at Kohls
5: ELLE at Kohls
6-9: Charlotte Russe
10: Forever XXI
11-12: Jessica Simpson Collection

See a trend? Neutrals. I am loving the light shades of beige, golds, and tans.
Conclusion: I need to go shoe shopping.

All Sorts of Awesome

2011-06-23T20:53:00.004-04:00

So, you probably know I love The Hunger Games, right? Well, I just could not help myself, so I started a Tumblr all about THG. I figured that way I would not bombard this blog with all things Hunger Games as the movie gets closer. I mean, I do not obsess over things at all, but this is like a serious addiction. :) So, if you love the books, come visit me over here. I would love talk to you about them.

Father's Day

2011-06-19T18:55:00.000-04:00

Today is always a tough day for me. I never seem to show it, or I simply try to avoid it. Yesterday, on the way to a friend's house, the boyfriend drove past the cemetery. Normally, when we take this same path each week to visit the same friend, I forget it's there. Yesterday, though, its presence was easily felt. You see, there, in that exact cemetery, is my father. He's been there for nearly 14 years. I am not without father figures in my life, but no matter how many, it's not the same. This is especially true when you had such a strong connection with your father. A day never goes by without my mother telling me "you're just like your father". To my mother, I am a constant reminder of my father, but I'll never really know. I was only eight years old. How much do you remember at that age? Enough to keep me going, I guess. My mom has been so amazing for these past 14 years. Being a single mother is not easy. She has played both roles to the best of her ability. But on Father's Day, all these feelings rise to the surface, and it becomes difficult to avoid them. I pass by Walgreens and see all the little kids with their moms searching for the perfect card. Not me. My mother thinks I'm being spiteful when I complain about having to go searching for gifts for all of my uncles, but it is just me not wanting to deal with all of that. The only thing it gets me is her saying the same thing: "You're just like your father." I take it in stride. With pride. I have to turn around and smile. Thinking to myself, I am my Father's daughter.

My Middle Name.

2011-06-01T23:26:00.000-04:00

Procrastination...

Man oh man, I'm on a runaway train to lazy right now.
I have so many assignments for this one class, and I'm going insane. I truly have not been as focused as I should be and I need to step it up. I had to do a read-a-loud (done), a lesson plan that looks way too complicated because it is an entirely different format(eww!), a genre study that requires me to look into ten books and review them in some detail (work in progress), an ABC book, and a phonics presentation. Duuuuuuude. That's a lot and there are only five classes left. Oh, and I'm missing tomorrow because I'm going to see Taylor Swift with my best friend! I finally get to spend some quality time with her. Everything is a work in progress. Oh, and I started journaling. I've completely lost my mind. Ohhhhh, and I've been reading books like it's nobody's business. (FYI: I picked up "Girl Who Was on Fire" which is a book of essays compiled by 13 YA authors and their thoughts on Suzanne Collins' "The Hunger Games") I have got to slow it down somewhat... Just not now. There is no time. Sorry I've been back and forth. I have been reading blogs a lot. I never can quit reading about other people's lives. Hahaha. Wish me luck, and I hope to become human again soon.

P.S. My middle name is Marie. :)

What I Am Loving Right Now

2011-05-22T16:42:00.000-04:00

This photo of Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss for the upcoming Hunger Games movie.

Tumblr, because I love finding cute, funny, and interesting photographs and art to share.

The Maze Runner and Scorch Trials by James Dashner

Yogurtland... yummy! Best frozen yogurt ever.

These face cleansing towelettes by "Yes To".

Miami Glow by JLo <3

Wee-Bit Wednesday

2011-05-18T18:50:00.000-04:00

1. Do you watch the history channel? If so, what’s your favorite program?
I watch it a few times a week. I really enjoy "How the States Got Their Shapes". I am a history junkie.

2. What is your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?
Watch instant movies on Netflix. :)

3. What does your dream house look like?
Well, it's basically like the one from "Something's Gotta Give". I loooove that house. I love the location. It's amazing. And, I want the entire house to be decorated in white, silver, and turquoise.

I got all these fantastic images from Hooked on Houses.

I learned that the inside of the house and the outside were two separate spaces.

4. What state were you born in?
Florida.

5. Do you have a change jar? If so, what do you use it for when it gets full?
My brother has one. I don't. I never have.

6. What’s the first website you look at when you get on the computer?
Facebook is my homepage. The order is basically: Facebook, Blogger, JustJared, and Huffington Post.

7. What is your favorite breakfast?
I am not a big breakfast eater. Never have been. I guess I just like toast, eggs (sunny-side up), chocolate milk, and a chocolate chip muffin.

8. What’s the most memorable trip you’ve ever taken?
My trip to Greece and Italy. Oh wow.

9. Do you prefer your coffee black or with cream/milk/sugar?
I love "cafe con leche".

10. Have you ever done a professional photo shoot?
I mom had me do a bunch when I was a tot. I remember the one I did for my Communion. I also did one every year for school pictures. And of course my senior pictures.

Shake-and-Bake

2011-05-11T10:44:00.000-04:00

My friends and I got together for a taco/quesadilla day and we baked cupcakes, brownies, and one big cake. But it was not just a regular cake... we made a Hunger Games cake. Now, we are not professionals. However, the cake looked great and tasted even better. :)

We made our own fondant... dude, that is hard stuff to make. You only need three ingredients, but it's tough on the arms. However, if you want an excellent work out, this is for you! Can you see the sweat on my face? I had the oven and stove on. It was hot in there!

We had to dye the fondant with food coloring because we decided to match the color of the books.

One layer for each book.

My favorite part was the cute cupcakes we made since there was leftover cake batter:

I think my friends got them dyed pretty spot-on. :)

And what was the finished product?

I must say, it is pretty awesome. :)

Be-lated Birthday Post

2011-05-10T22:43:00.000-04:00

For our birthday (the boyfriend and I), we got together with some friends and went to the Ale House for some drinks and food. We ended up waiting for oh... about 1 1/2 hours. We were starved. Eventually, we were able to order. The boyfriend and I ordered buffalo wings, chicken nachos, and friend calamari... yummy! We all just had a great time. We continued until about 3 in the morning with some of our friends. We drove around, attempted to visit two separate places, but walked straight out. Talk about AWK-WARD. We ended up having milkshakes at Denny's and talking for a about an hour. It was basically the best birthday ever, so far anyway. :)

Look what my awesome friends gave me:

And in the back:

H.G. 30 Day Challenge: Day 3

2011-05-07T15:36:00.000-04:00

The best thing about this "challenge" is that I can write about it whenever I want. :) This week I relaxed more than anything else. Kind of. I need to post pictures, but I always forget. :) I hope to do so this weekend.

Day 3: Character you hate that everyone loves.

Gale. At first, I thought he was great and everything... until they introduced Peeta. Then, I just wanted Gale leave, move, evaporate, whatevs. :)

Musical Monday Vol. 5

2011-05-02T15:51:00.001-04:00

In honor of my favorite movie <3

For lyrics: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5

The Outsiders

2011-05-01T13:58:00.000-04:00

I have been dying to watch this movie again.
I haven't seen it since my middle school days, after we read the novel.
It's one of my favorites.

"Stay gold, Ponyboy. Stay gold."

H.G. 30 Day Challenge: Day 2

2011-04-30T12:54:00.000-04:00

Day 2: Least favorite character.

I have many, but I would say President Snow. The guy gives me the creeps.

And just the fact that he "smells like blood and roses" makes him my least favorite.

{source}

Are you hungry?

2011-04-28T19:59:00.000-04:00

The Hunger Games books have become my favorite books ever. And I mean this seriously.
I read these books last year. Basically, I had no one to talk about them with.
My friend chose to read them about three weeks ago, and then my other friend, and then another, and another, and now they're hooked. I am loving being able to love these books all over again. With the hype about the movie, we actually created an unofficial-official book club to discuss the books and the creation of the movie.

Sidenote: Wouldn't Hugh Laurie make an amazing Haymitch?!

So, my friend Barbie posted this yesterday: The Hunger Games 30 Day Challenge.

Day 1: Your favorite character:
Day 2: Your least favorite character:
Day 3: A character you hate that everyone loves:
Day 4: A character you love that everyone hates:
Day 5: Your favorite fight/battle scene:
Day 6: A scene that made you laugh:
Day 7: A scene that made you cry:
Day 8: The character you are most like:
Day 9: Your favorite quote:
Day 10: Peeta or Gale:
Day 11: Something you hate about the series:
Day 12: A character you wish hadn’t died:
Day 13: A character you wish had died:
Day 14: Your favorite tribute (aside from Peeta/Katniss):
Day 15: Your least favorite tribute (aside from Peeta/Katniss):
Day 16: A question you wish had been answered in the book:
Day 17: The worst death:
Day 18: A song that reminds you of the series:
Day 19: Your favorite pairing:
Day 20: Your least favorite pairing:
Day 21: A pairing you don’t get:
Day 22: Your favorite book of the three:
Day 23: Your favorite secondary character:
Day 24: Your least favorite secondary character:
Day 25: Your dream cast:
Day 26: Your favorite scene in The Hunger Games:
Day 27: Your favorite scene in Catching Fire:
Day 28: Your favorite scene in Mockingjay:
Day 29: Your favorite thing about the entire series:
Day 30: A book/series that you would recommend to fellow fans:

I am loving this! So, I will begin today.

Day 1: Favorite Character

My honest answer? PEETNISS! It's really hard to choose. I think I would have to choose Katniss though because she is so strong-willed, fierce, and takes care of those she loves. No matter what went down between her and Peeta, she loved him (in any which way). It makes you wonder if you would be as strong as Katniss in her situation. She broke rules to survive.

Pondering

2011-04-28T18:25:00.000-04:00

For about two weeks, I have been thinking about changing my blog's name.
I really have no idea why, but I got the idea while I was sleeping. This tends to happen. I usually get all my best ideas in one of two places:
1) in bed at night OR 2) in the shower. Because of this, I keep a pen and notepad in my nightstand drawer. Things get complicated in the shower though. One time, I wrote what I was thinking in the foggy mirror. Proud moment...
Anyway, so yes, I have been really considering it.
And I already have a name in mind. However, I am keeping it to myself... for now.
At least until I can think it over.

:)

The Day of My Birth

2011-04-27T13:01:00.000-04:00

Yes, today is my birthday.

I am 22.

*shivers*

I wonder what 22 has to offer...

Here are two comments I have received over on Facebook that made my day:

Happy birthday to my wonderful sis! May God bless you with many years (and allow me to see them hehe). You are now 22, a number associated with hard work, but also with success in family and career life. You have been blessed with many talents and a kind heart, and I know you will overcome all obstacles. My wish for you is that the year ahead will be filled with great opportunities as well as with challenges that will allow you to shine and give your very best. Ah! And always remember that God might have not given you the biggest physical stature, but he gave you the biggest heart and a sister who doesn't share your blood, but who adores you for life.

(That one was from my best friend. It made me cry.)

Happy Birthday Jenny!!!! aren't you happy you can't be in the reaping?

(That one was from my friend, who loves the Hunger Games as much as me!)

A Good Cry

2011-04-26T19:43:00.000-04:00

On Sunday night, I was doing my usual searching on television for something that will let me fall asleep.
I ended up watching Lifetime, and they were giving this movie:

"A singer/songwriter falls in love with a girl who can't hear the music she inspires him to write."

Bad idea on my part. I could not sleep. I kept watching. I had a good long cry. I felt so much better afterwards.

Musical Monday Vol. 4

2011-04-25T16:05:00.000-04:00

For lyrics: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4

Wee-Bit Wednesday

2011-04-20T21:50:00.000-04:00

Did you think I'd forget? :)

Link up over at Leigh Ashley's by clicking the picture.

1. How often do you do laundry?
Once a week, usually on the weekend.

2. What is your favorite type of cookie?
Chocolate chip cookies! Yummmmmmmy.

3. What would you do with an extra $2000 per month?
Shop? Haha. I could stop working.

4. What was/is your favorite subject in school?
History and English were always my faves.

5. Have you ever ridden in a hot air balloon?
Nope. That would be amazing!

6. What was your high school mascot?
The Thoroughbreds. Funny story: we had two horses in our atrium at school, and it turns out in order to save money, the class that bought the horses got mustangs instead of thoroughbreds...

7. If you had the chance to go into space, would you?
Umm, that would be a negative. Unless the world is coming to an end.

8. How often do you go dancing?
Umm, I dance in my room every day. Hahaha.

9. Would you rather drive or fly?
I love flying, but I would love to take a cross-country road trip.

10. Have you ever been caught re-gifting?
Not yet... :)

Winner! Winner! Chicken Dinner!

2011-04-20T21:30:00.000-04:00

I have been so overrun with finals (4 today alone) that I forgot to share my most excellent news:

I won a giveaway over at The Maddy Chronicles.

And it just so happened to be a month premium subscription and $30 to one of my absolute favorite blogs...

PUGLY PIXEL!

So basically, I am a very very happy camper. :)

Thank you Maddy! <3

Musical Monday Vol. 3

2011-04-18T14:22:00.000-04:00

For lyrics: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4

Study Hard

2011-04-17T21:04:00.000-04:00

The spring semester is almost over. It has been quite the challenge. I cannot wait for it to finish. My two summer semesters are sure to be a challenge as well, but the end result will be quite worth it, I hope. What I am going to miss are my fifth graders. They have been such a blessing. Those kids are fantastic. They crack some mean jokes, but the funny kind. I only have three more assignments to finish up throughout the week. I should have finished them this weekend, but... :) In the mean time, I have been reading Wicked and I absolutely love it. It's not a really quick read, at least not for me. I'm enjoying taking my time with it, though. The story is quite inspiring.

I hope you enjoyed your weekend. I did. Here's the proof.

If you've never played Just Dance 2 for the Wii, you are seriously missing out.

Yes, I am the one that shouts "Yessss!" at the end of the Rasputin video. I won! :)

Wee-Bit Wednesday is Back

2011-04-13T13:42:00.001-04:00

I haven't done one of these in such a long time.I miss them. I always like answering the questions that Leigh Ashley posts on her blog. So... I have decided to start them back up. It's perfect timing since my semester is almost over. :) Join in and link up over at Leigh Ashley's page by clicking the button.

1. Have you ever fainted?
Yupp. One time, when my hemoglobin dropped insanely low. I had no idea what "hemoglobin" was. Apparently it is supposed to be in the 14-15 level... mine was at around 4. It was probably one of the top scariest moments of my life thus far.

2. What is your favorite casino game?
Blackjack. I love playing. I'm pretty darn good at it, too.

3. Do you have a good sense of direction?
I think so. I can usually tell people where to go, how to get places. I don't get lost, unless I'm in a place I've never been. Like when we went to California last month... my GPS became my best friend.

4. Laptop or desktop?
Laptop. :)

5. What is your go-to hair style when having a bad hair day?
Ponytail. It's all I can really do with my hair.

6. Do you read the newspaper on a daily basis?
Not really. I just watch the news in the morning. But sometimes I'll read the Huffington Post.

7. Do you have a favorite celebrity chef?
I looooove Ina Garten (Barefoot Contessa). I want to be her BFF. Haha. Ooh, and Curtis Stone. He is... yeah...

8. What TV show would you like to make a guest appearance on?
This one may be kind of weird, but it would be kind of cool to play one of those bodies from CSI. I just think those people are skilled keeping still for so long. But, aside from that one, GLEE. Even though I can't sing a note.

9. Do you have satellite radio in your car?
Nope. I liked having it in the rental we had in California since we were driving for so long and never lost connection, but I wouldn't really need it here since there are so many stations.

10. What was the last movie that made you cry?
"Little Women"; I watched it this past Sunday.

Musical Monday Vol. 2

2011-04-11T15:50:00.000-04:00

For lyrics: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4

Musical Monday Vol. 1

2011-04-04T17:14:00.000-04:00

For lyrics: 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5

Jenny Goes on Vacation: Pacific Coast Highway

2011-04-03T21:42:00.001-04:00

Sorry it took me so long to continue writing about my vacation.
It's getting down to crunch time for me at school. I have only about 3 weeks left until the semester ends. But here is another installment for ya'll.

We drove a few miles up the Pacific Coast Highway. It was a beautiful drive. The scenery - mountains, hills, flowers, ocean - was beautiful. I cannot wait to go back some day and do the whole thing. It takes a really long time. Even though we didn't do the whole thing, it took us 9 hours to get to San Francisco.

Here are a few pictures from when we explored San Francisco on our first day.

I cannot tell you how much I love that city! I truly left my heart in San Francisco.

Where is my future headed?

2011-03-24T22:23:00.000-04:00

Today, my state governor, Rick Scott, signed a bill into law that will greatly impact my future.
Teachers will be paid according to students' scores on yearly high-stakes tests, and the law also ends tenure for new-hires. I just do not know how I feel about this. I feel this decision will force me to leave my home state. I don't want to work for people who do not appreciate the job I do. They quoted him saying that we must recruit and retain the best, and yet teachers are being surplussed and laid off all the time, whether good or bad. So where does this leave me and my peers? At the moment I don't know. I still have a time before graduation, and I do not know what will happen from now till then. Once I get there, I guess I'll figure it out... I hope.

Jenny Goes on Vacation: L.A. & Hollywood

2011-03-20T23:41:00.000-04:00

We left home last Friday. We took an overnight flight. It left here at 10 PM and arrived at LAX at 1 AM... Pacific time. This means that it was 4 AM on the East coast. My sleeping pattern got really messed up. By the time I fixed it, we were back home. :( We were only going to be in Los Angeles for two days, so we tried to make the most of it.

I really hated having such a late flight. I slept some on the plane, but it was so loud...

We rented a car the next day and used my handy Google maps app on my phone to get around.

Our first stop in L.A. was for lunch. Where?

IN-N-OUT! :)

It was beyond delicious! We went back three more times during the trip. We don't have it in Florida, so I had to take advantage. I then input "Grauman's Chinese Theatre" into my GPS, and we headed for Hollywood Blvd. It was quite the drive -- about 30-40 minutes.

We took a few pictures with some of the characters. Darth Vader gave me a light saber, so he gets the blog picture. :) We took one of those tours around the city. It's really great because we got to see so much in just 3 hours. The truck didn't have a roof, and it was super windy, hence why I am wearing my coat in a bunch of pictures. We went up to one of the hills and got to look down on the city. It was a beautiful day.

On my list of MUST-DO was Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum. It was so much fun!

I got to meet Marilyn...

Gaga...

The love of my life... I mean, Justin...

Charlie Chaplin...

Forrest got to meet me, Jenn-nayy. :D

Johnny Depp... sigh...

L.A. was a lot of fun, and I would totally fit in. I think it's because Miami is so much like it that it wasn't such a culture shock. I really can't wait to go back and spend some more time there. We left L.A. early Sunday morning and drove up Highway 101, or the Pacific Coast Highway. Now THAT was an experience.

Where Have I Been?

2011-03-20T16:57:00.000-04:00

Well, I wasn't doing homework, or any work, that's for sure.

I was on vacation with my mom, brother, and the boyfriend.

Guess where we went...

Pictures will come soon. I just need to finish some homework. :)

What's In A Name?

2011-03-06T18:57:00.001-05:00

Last night my family got together to celebrate my uncle's 70th birthday.
I played some pool and ping-pong with my cousins. I had to eventually remove myself from there when the game got a "little" heated. Boys...
We had some Chinese food, marshmallow delight (my favorite), and homemade cookies & cream cake.Yummy.
Anyways, we tend to talk about the most random of things when we get together. Last night's topic became baby names. My younger cousin is taking an early childhood class in school and she has pretend twin babies to care for. I always wanted to do that! :) So, we started talking about what our names meant and blah blah blah. If I have children someday, I have their names planned. Well, at least the girls. I think most girls do.

So what's in a name?

Jennifer means fair phantom or white wave.
It comes from England.
It was the #1 girl name in 1974... 15 years before I was born!

Anything interesting about your name?

Bandwagon.

2011-03-05T14:20:00.000-05:00

I really want one...

In Dire Need...

2011-03-05T13:09:00.000-05:00

...of a vacation.

Countdown: 6 days!

10/10: Day Nine

2011-03-03T22:13:00.001-05:00

Today's challenge: 10 books you love to read.

1. The Hunger Games
2. Catching Fire
3. Mockingjay
4. The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones
5. Sookie Stackhouse Novels
6. The Great Gatsby
7. Pride & Prejudice
8. Twilight Saga: New Moon
9. Nancy Drew Mysteries
10. To Kill a Mockingbird

A Teachable Moment

2011-03-02T20:53:00.000-05:00

Today I had my very first "teach". This is where special directors and professors from the College of Education observe us as we teach a lesson. We do not have to teach it to children, but instead to a few of our peers. Mine was on the American Revolution for 5th grade. Now, I am not someone who freaks out during a presentation or when having to speak publicly, however, it was being timed. I hate when I am timed. I pulled it off though, and I felt really good in the end. When my professor gave me the evaluation afterwards, I almost cried... I got a perfect score. She is a really tough teacher who expects a lot from us, and I am just so happy that I was able to meet her expectations.

This morning, I had to present a lesson plan I did using Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief. I was sitting behind my professor's desk and a fellow student says to me, "Jenny, you look like you belong back there." I asked her what she meant by that and she told me that she felt I was a natural teacher and she thought I fit in just fine behind the desk at the front of the class. Her comment kind of made my day.

10/10: Day Eight

2011-03-02T20:41:00.000-05:00

Today's challenge: 10 things on your bucket list.

1. Live in Italy for whatever amount of time.
2. Sky-dive or bungee jump.
3. Go to an on-Broadway play.
4. Become a successful teacher.
5. Be a mom.
6. Visit a free Cuba.
7. Go to a taping of the Ellen Show.
8. Write a book.
9. Become financially stable/secure.
10. Learn a new language.

10/10: Day Seven

2011-03-01T22:52:00.000-05:00

Today's challenge: 10 items you wore today.

1. Jeans

2. Beige tank

3. T-Shirt

4. Beige cardigan

5. Bow wedges

6. Watch

7. Sunglasses

8. Charm bracelet

9. Juicy Couture perfume

10. Lip gloss?

10/10: Day Six

2011-02-28T15:57:00.000-05:00

Today's challenge: 10 songs you never get tired of hearing.

1. Don't Speak - No Doubt
2. Here Comes the Sun - Beatles
3. Don't Stop Believing - Journey
4. Livin' on a Prayer - Bon Jovi
5. Time of my Life - Dirty Dancing
6. Your Body is a Wonderland - John Mayer
7. Heaven is a Place on Earth - Belinda Carlisle
8. Hey Jude- Beatles
9. Cry Me a River - Justin Timberlake
10. Sweet Child O' Mine - Guns 'N Roses

If you can't tell, I love all kinds of music.

The Academy Awards

2011-02-27T21:12:00.000-05:00

A lot of pretty people in pretty clothes. :)

I was trying to find a picture of the dress Anne Hathaway is wearing to present, but gosh darn it... I can't find it.

My favorite is probably Mila Kunis. The color is wonderful, and she looks fantastic.

10/10: Day Five

2011-02-27T14:48:00.001-05:00

Today's challenge: 10 movies you love to watch.

1. 10 Things I Hate About You
2. The Breakfast Club
3. Forrest Gump

4. Dirty Dancing

5. Clueless

6. Independence Day

7. Pride and Prejudice

8. Serendipity
9. Love Actually
10. The Holiday

A lot of these are my "feel good" movies that I love to watch on a rainy day or late nights.

10/10: Day Four

2011-02-26T16:54:00.000-05:00

Today's challenge: 10 of your favorite quotes.

10/10: Day Three

2011-02-25T20:51:00.001-05:00

Today's challenge: 10 foods you like to eat.

1. Pasta

2. Bistec Empanizado (breaded steak)

3. Mashed Potatoes

4. BBQ Chicken Pizza

5. Chocolate Chip Cookies

6. Frijoles Colorados (red beans)

7. Empanadas

8. Cannoli

9. Garlic Bread

10. Chicken Wings

Yummy.

10/10: Day Two

2011-02-24T19:38:00.000-05:00

Today's challenge: 10 places you want to visit.

1. Florence, Italy

2. London, England

3. Ireland

4. Vancouver, British Columbia

5. Washington, D.C.

6. Santorini, Greece

7. Seattle, Washington

8. Paris, France

9. San Francisco, California

10. Boston, Massachusetts

10/10: Day One

2011-02-23T21:55:00.000-05:00

Today's challenge: 10 blogs you love.

Letters from a College Student

My Sweet Old Etcetera

& This is What She Said

The World is My Oyster

Little Chief Honeybee

...this was harder than I thought, but I hope I just informed you of someone new. :)

10/10 Challenge

2011-02-22T17:41:00.001-05:00

I really enjoyed my last challenge, so I figured I should do a new one. Not to mention, these challenges help me get back into shape when it comes to blogging. :) So, I thought I would keep it simple and sweet and fun, of course. Basically, it's 10 days with 10 challenges, and they each ask for a list of 10.

The challenge begins later on today. :)

High in the Sky

2011-02-21T18:36:00.000-05:00

I had a wonderful weekend.
It was actually eventful for once in a long time. :)

On Friday, it was a friend's 21st birthday. The gang and I headed for Longhorn, his favorite, where we dined on steak, chicken, lobster/shrimp dip, and for me, a great watermelon martini. That alone gives me reason to return.

Saturday was spent doing homework, and resting. I have been so tired lately. I have been opening more at work, so I have not had any time to sleep. Eventually, after a few weeks, it catches up with you.

Yesterday, the boyfriend and I went with friends to a kite festival. None of us had ever been. It was fantastic. A few of them had built some kites, but one of them broke before we even left for the festival when we took it for a test fly.

So, we headed for the beach. The park is actually between the beach and the marina. It was breezy, sunny, perfect for flying some kites. We did purchase two new kites since one had broken and the other was too large to take. My boyfriend took everyone by surprise when he became an expert kite-flyer. We got one pretty far... actually... very far! The other kites were amazing. There was a giant squid, a cow, a scuba diver... etc. We had a lot of fun setting up a blanket and eating chips and pastelitos.

Look at me flying Buzz. :)

Our friends made that kite.

Can you spot Buzz?

Boy did I have to zoom in to take this picture!

The Grammys

2011-02-13T23:43:00.000-05:00

Usually I'd post a gagillion pictures of the best dressed, but I could hardly find any. Thank goodness for Selena Gomez. The performances were amazing. I'm still in shock about Best New Artist... I'll leave it at that.

And look at her shoes:

And I really liked Jennifer Lopez, too. It was a great party dress.

Sorry I've been MIA. I've had a lot of work to do. And I've been working 10 extra hours at work.

I miss this.

S.A.G. Awards

2011-01-30T20:46:00.000-05:00

First of all, I have been an awful blogger. School has, once again, gotten the better of me. I have been so tired lately, getting home and falling asleep on the couch. When I'm not at school, I am working, which is not fun. My family and I have been trying to finalize some travel plans, and this was very hard to deal with because airlines can be so strict and whatnot. So, basically, I suck for not blogging. :) I hope to get back into the rhythm of things.

I'm watching the S.A.G. Awards. I am loving some of the outfits that made their way onto the red carpet.

Lea Michele

I always love what she wears...

Eva Longoria

This is the second time the back of the dress is better, but I can't find a picture of the back.

Diana Agron

Again, she looks amazing. I wish she'd take a picture with the Pettyfer though. ;)

Mila Kunis

I love this dress. She looks young and it is very "her". Much better than her Globes dress.

Natalie Portman

Not a surprise. She looks stunning. Look at the baby bump! :)

The Globes

2011-01-16T23:04:00.001-05:00

I love award shows.
I love the fashion of award shows.

Here are some of my favorites of the night. :)

Olivia Wilde (House)

Her dress is amazing. She was like a walking disco ball. I loved it.

Eva Longoria (Desperate Housewives)

I just really liked the back of the dress.

Lea Michele (Glee)

She never fails me with what she wears. The blush color is great.

Natalie Portman (Black Swan)

She makes pregnancy look fabulous.

Diana Agron (Glee)

So classy. Every time.

Sarah Hyland (Modern Family)

I really liked her in this dress. Very age appropriate.

Emma Stone (Easy A)

At first I did not like the color of the dress, but then it just went great with the blonde.

Claire Danes (Temple Grandin)

Again, I wasn't sure about this color, in this style, but she pulls it off.

Project 365: January 9-15

2011-01-16T14:23:00.006-05:00

Day 9: January 9

My Freckles. She can't keep herself out of the kitchen...

Day 10: January 10

It was a Christmas gift. I wear it everyday. It smells divine.

Day 11: January 11

So many things to do already. Two projects for this upcoming week. I made that plate in high school. It was right when "Across the Universe" came out. I loooove that movie.

Day 12: January 12

When I need to feel comfy, or when it's too cold to wear sandals here, I wear my super cute pink sneakers.

Day 13: January 13

I tend to forget to grab something to eat for breakfast. I had to work early on Thursday, so I picked up some Krispy Kremes to hold out until I left work.

Day 14: January 14

Best game! Just Dance 2 for the Wii. Ahhh! We got it for Christmas. The boyfriend and I play every day he's here. I kick butt. No joke. My favorite song to dance to... between "Viva! Las Vegas" or this Bollywood one.

Day 15: January 15

Had to work yesterday... but the manager from another branch brought us empanadas. Delicious. He wrote my nickname on the bag, "Trouble". Hahaha. Loved it. Plus, mine looked like a stegosaurus.

Let's Be Blunt

2011-01-12T21:14:00.000-05:00

Today, I am officially scared.
One of my professor's said the dreaded phrase:
"I have never given an A to anyone, so don't expect one."
I had to scrape my jaw off the floor.
I work my butt off in school to get good grades. My 3.76 GPA contains a lot of blood, sweat, and tears.
I think she was just trying to intimidate us, but still. I listened to every single word she said for the next hour and a half. Now I am even more determined to get an A. Allow me to ruin her record. :)

First Day of Spring Semester

2011-01-10T18:17:00.000-05:00

I am not sure how ready I was to go back to school. With my class being cancelled last minute, I figured it to be an omen for how the rest of my semester was going to go. This morning, I woke up late, and I rushed to shower, dry my hair, get dressed, and eventually leave. I grabbed a banana, water bottle, and granola bar on my way out the door. I should have been smarter; I realized half way to school that I did not have time for lunch today... oops. All of my rushing had been for no reason because I ended up getting to school nearly an hour earlier than necessary. My class was at 8am and I was parked by 7:10. I sat in the car, listening to Elvis Duran and their phone tap, which always makes me feel better. I wasn't so much nervous as I was upset about not having the class I really needed and having to settle.
My first class was Methods for Teaching Social Studies (Elementary). My professor, poor thing, seems to suffer from something that I cannot diagnose. He never once looked any of us in the eyes, let alone even looked at our faces... period. I did not mind his stutter since it really wasn't all too bad, but he would lose me after a couple of words. It was as if he were having a conversation with the ceiling. I had ten minutes to run across campus to my other class (the campus is pretty huge). He kept talking for nearly fifteen minutes more than he should have, even after someone told him "time's up". I ended up getting to my other class ten minutes late.
I knew some people from last semester. That always makes me feel better. My second professor was kind of nerdy, in the nice sense. The class is Methods for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, which is required in the state of Florida. He was trying to be funny, but we were just not having it. I was done with two classes and they both were making me feel disillusioned.
I had an hour break between classes. I took advantage and went to Starbucks, grabbed a strawberry frap and empanada. That held me off until around 2pm when I ate my granola bar. My last class of the day, Classroom Management (Elementary), was the one I was looking forward to most. I know the majority of the class. We all had Educational Psychology last semester. And guess what happened? The professor we thought we had was incorrect. Who happened to walk in through the door? Our Ed. Psych professor from last semester. All of our mouths dropped. IT HAD TO BE A MISTAKE. But no. She's really nice and all, but no one ended the semester on the right foot with her last time. We were scared. I'm feeling better knowing how she is already, but I think our reactions scared the rest of the students into dropping the class.

Project 365: January 1-8

2011-01-09T15:12:00.000-05:00

Day 1: January 1st

First day of 2011.

Day 2: January 2nd

Decided to get rid of some things I did not need anymore.

Day 3: January 3rd

Pretty Little Liars is baaaaack! :)

Day 4: January 4th

I started reading "Dead Until Dark", book one of the Sookie Stackhouse novels.

Day 5: January 5th

Started making my journal...mine.

Day 6: January 6th

My go-to bag of the moment.

Day 7: January 7th

Received this lovely email. Ruined my entire day, and has completely ruined my school schedule.

Day 8: January 8th

Accomplished one of my goals for 2011... already! Had a small "dinner party" with close friends. Nothing fancy, but a whole lot of fun. Served fettuccine alfredo with chicken, salad with EVOO vinaigrette, garlic bread, and marshmallow delight. Mmmm!

" & I'm a House of Cards"

2011-01-06T23:11:00.001-05:00

Music makes me happy.Especially when I can play it loud in my car on a windy, cloudy day with my windows down.
:)
Drop everything now/meet me in the pouring rain/Kiss me on the sidewalk/take away the pain/Cause I see/sparks fly/whenever you smile

Project 365

2011-01-05T17:40:00.000-05:00

So, everyone has been doing it in the past, and I have really been wanting to do it, too. So, I waited until the New Year to begin. For the next three hundred and sixty-five days, I will be taking a photograph each and every day. Rather than posting a picture each day, I will recap the week on Sunday with pictures from the past 7 days. So, for example, this Sunday I will post pictures from January 1-8. I am very excited about this project, and I found out that Annie is doing it as well. One reason I wanted to do this, besides documenting my entire year, was so that I could start and complete one whole task. I even made it a goal for 2011.

A New Year & a Holiday Recap

2011-01-04T21:11:00.000-05:00

A bit late am I?Just a tad. :)This weekend I had major stomach pains, and just could not sit in front of a computer. I just wanted to be in bed forever. On Sunday, feeling better, I went to buy shoes since I decided to get rid of those I did not want anymore. I have been working hard the past two days, and the rest of the week is not going to be any better. I'm already starting to freak out because Spring semester starts next week... eek! Mostly, I have been thinking about what goals I want to set for the year. I have thought up a few. I'm going to write them up and give them a separate space on the blog. I really want this to be a great year. There are so many things I want to do and see.
Let's begin with Christmas Eve. Because you see, I am Cuban-American. We celebrate Noche Buena, which can be translated to "Good Night", but it is actually what we call December 24th. We had a nice dinner at my aunt's home with lots of family. The food was delicious, as always. Cubans make a lot of food like pork, black beans, and rice... yummy.

This is my cousin's wife, Catalina. She is amazing. They moved back to Miami from Las Vegas in July, after being gone for two years. We were so happy to be able to spend the holidays with them.

I abso-ti-va-lutely love this photo. <3

So my uncle was all "Let's so a bonfire..."

And we were all "Umm... yeah!"

Bust out the marshmallows!

No, not chestnuts roasted on an open fire.

Sticky, gooey, marshmallows are so much better.

I like mine toasted, not burned to a crisp, thanks.

We did this until about 1 AM. It was amazing.
Now, as for Christmas, it was the usual hectic morning, afternoon, and night.This holiday takes a lot of work. Like for reals.I mostly received gift cards and cash, which was put to great use at Target. My fave place.It was Freckles first Christmas with us. I think she enjoyed it most.

Awe-some!
New Year's was pretty amazing. I had a lot of fun.

Here's to a year full of love, happiness, and patience... I could use some.

Gesundheit*

2010-12-30T22:23:00.000-05:00

I spent the last week sick.It was gross.I never get sick. It usually happens when there's a quick temperature change here in Florida. Since we've been having cold weather for about two weeks straight, it caught up to me. It was the usual sore, itchy throat, running nose and constant sneeze attacks, and then the eventual coughing. I thought I was not going to be able to get out of bed yesterday, but I went to the mall with my cousins and the fresh air actually helped. Getting sick... sucks! I thank God that I have an excellent immune system.I want to tell you all about my Christmas, but I'm so tired. My sleeping habits have not been great this week. Hopefully tomorrow I'll be able to sit down before the New Year's party and tell you about it. :)

A Merry Little Christmas

2010-12-25T16:49:00.000-05:00

From me, to you. :)

I'm in the Christmas Spirit!

2010-12-24T16:46:00.000-05:00

I'm actually excited for Christmas this year.I mean, I love Christmas, but since I've been getting older... *shiver*....I just haven't really gotten into the spirit of it all.But this year, I keep singing carols and saying "HAPPY HOLIDAYS!" to pretty much everyone I come into contact with. It has been awesome. :) And tomorrow is the BIG day. It has to be the greatest holiday ever. The end. Tonight I get to spend it with my family, eating arroz, frijoles negros, and lechon (I'm Cuban; allow me to translate: rices, black beans, and pork). Life is good. I hope everyone has a safe night and gets a ton of awesome gifties tomorrow. <3

I leave you with some of my favorite Christmas songs.

"All I Want for Christmas"
"Last Christmas"
"Drummer Boy"
"Do You Hear What I Hear?"
"Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays"
Merry Christmas& Happy Holidays

12 Days of Christmas: Day 12

2010-12-24T15:54:00.000-05:00

On the twelfth day of Christmas...

Taylor Swift is coming to concert next yearrr! :)

12 Days of Christmas: Day 11

2010-12-23T22:29:00.000-05:00

On the eleventh day of Christmas...

{modcloth}

JAW DROPPED

the end.

12 Days of Christmas: Day 10

2010-12-22T18:50:00.000-05:00

On the tenth day of Christmas...

Ain't it cute?!

I want this one though:

or maybe this one:

12 Days of Christmas: Day 9

2010-12-21T18:47:00.000-05:00

On the ninth day of Christmas...

A trip to San Francisco :)

We may go next year, if everything plays out well.

Crossing my fingers.

12 Days of Christmas: Day 8

2010-12-20T22:35:00.000-05:00

On the eighth day of Christmas...

I know it doesn't come out until the Spring, but...

I can't wait. I'm on the third book, and I love the series.

12 Days of Christmas: Day 7

2010-12-19T12:30:00.000-05:00

On the seventh day of Christmas...

I really, really, really, really want one. In pink. :)

I would feel so Martha Stewart-y. Haha.

12 Days of Christmas: Days 5 & 6

2010-12-18T12:38:00.000-05:00

I somehow managed to forget to post day five, great.Well, now there's two! :)
On the fifth day of Christmas...

I'm dying for a charm bracelet.

I would prefer to start building my own with charms, but this one is great.

On the sixth day of Christmas...

Meet the T-Mobile MyTouch 4G.

I have the 3G, and I cannot wait to get my hands on this baby.

Planning for a New Year

2010-12-16T21:08:00.000-05:00

I can hardly believe how fast this year has gone by.Sooo many things have happened. It is incredible.It has been a great year, as well as a stressful one.I have a bunch of ideas brewing in my head.For one, I am setting goals for myself. There are so many things I want to do and I've learned that I need to set those goals and hold myself accountable to achieving them. This meshes with my next idea. I have come across so many people creating beautiful journals. I love to write and draw, so I purchased this book during the summer.

I've held off using it until January 1st 2011.I plan, more like hope, to document the year in this notebook. I want to decorate it and make it ME.
I want to do so many things next year that I need to keep track.This blog and this new journal will help me with that.
I can't wait for the new year.

12 Days of Christmas: Day 4

2010-12-16T20:47:00.000-05:00

On the fourth day of Christmas...

I think this is so cute!I can't wait to get one.Anyone own one? Is it worth it?

12 Days of Christmas: Day 3

2010-12-15T22:34:00.000-05:00

On the third day of Christmas...

Kindle vs. Nook Color

This is my debate at the moment.

I love reading books, flipping the pages and whatnot.

But carrying them around is turning into a hassle for me.

This would be a great investment. Plus, you can pay less for the books, too.

Do you guys have either?

Which do you like better, if any?

I'm still undecided.

12 Days of Christmas: Day 2

2010-12-14T21:23:00.001-05:00

On the second day of Christmas...

Ok, so I am not sure if you guys watch or know of this show, PSYCH.

I loooove this show. For the past few weeks, I've been recapping the past 4 seasons with the boyfriend and brother. The show is hilarious. And the writers are just as ingenious as the ones for Glee. These bobbleheads, when I first saw them in an e-mail message from USA Network, made me laugh. They're too cute.

And can I just say... James Roday (who plays Shawn) is *sigh*

12 Days of Christmas: Day 1

2010-12-13T10:27:00.008-05:00

On the first day of Christmas...

Everyone knows how much I love Glee. It is the greatest show. And you know what else I love?KARAOKE!

Hello Blog-o-sphere!

2010-12-11T21:19:00.000-05:00

I'm back :)After a more than anticipated chaotic semester, I am back to blogging. The past 5 months have been a whirlwind. I could recollect them for you, but I'll save myself the hardship of having to reminisce. I am so insanely out of it that I have no idea what to write now. Ha. Well, I do have some ideas for some posts coming up real soon. Hopefully I can get all that together. Other than that...

How 'bout them holidays...

Mmmk... so where do I go from here?

It's Almost Over.

2010-12-05T18:26:00.000-05:00

So, I am done with school, well, at least done with having to go to class.I am in the process of turning in all my assignments.My one and only final is this Friday.On Wednesday I have my first Teacher Certification exam.I'm just a tad bit freaked out.I cannot wait for this week to be over.Christmas is almost here, and I love Christmas.I decorated somewhat at work this past Friday.I've had a hectic few weeks.But it's almost over. :)

As I Wait...

2010-11-18T09:39:00.000-05:00

Hi guys!It's been a long time again, I know.I think these College of Education people are out to get me.I'm here waiting in the advisement office to get a hold removed from my account in order to be able to fix my class schedule for next semester. Funny thing is, the hold I have is because I have 72 credits and I apparently hadn't declared a major, though I could have sworn I did that 4 months ago when I came to this exact office to change my major. So ridiculous.So here I am, waiting. At least it is not a doctor's office. They creep me out.I still have so much to do, but on Saturday my friends and I are celebrating an early Thanksgiving together. That should be a lot of fun. We did the same thing last year.
Until the next time I get to write, which I hope is soon. :)

Just Wanted to Say "Hello"

2010-11-11T19:56:00.000-05:00

Let me just apologize for being GONE for what seems like an eternity.Blogging really helps me de-stress, so not being able to is driving me mad.I just finished writing my assignment for my Educational Psychology class.This is the assignment that gets sent to the College of Education so I'm freaking out.It sounds good to me, but I am still unsure.This next week is going to be nuts.
I hope everyone is doing great. I cannot wait to get back to my regular blogging schedule. :)

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T18:02:00.002-04:00

Sorry I have been absent lately.I have so much on my plate at the moment.Every time I finish one assignment, I have to start another.I've spent my entire day reading and answering discussion questions that I had to catch up on. It's a neverending process. I just want to finish already. Next week I have to write two separate papers due the following week, create a WebQuest that is giving me hell (it's due on the 10th), and I'm sure there's a test in there somewhere I just forgot about. This is nuts. I hope everyone is having fun on this Halloween night. It's my favorite holiday and I can't even enjoy it... total failure this year. I love dressing up.
I leave you with some of my favorite songs to sing on Halloween.

All I Have to Say...

2010-10-27T23:17:00.000-04:00

Is that I'm having an insane week and I want it to end...
Hope to be back soon.

Project Smile :]

2010-10-23T17:32:00.000-04:00

Cocosettes!

A client of our's brings these to us. They are delicious.

Full tank of gas. :)

I received this is my work email the other day. How cute!

Hope you are having a wonderful weekend.Check out my "Food for Thought" question over here.

Project Smile :]

2010-10-21T22:25:00.000-04:00

So while I was working today, a customer pulled up to the window. He had his daughter in the backseat. Cute little girl. She was trying to jump to the front of the car. As she's moving back and forth, I see something on her arm. I try to focus on it. Eventually, I caught a good look. I made out the word "FEVER". I just said to myself, "Nuh uh, no way, it cannot be..." But it was. I flashback-ed to my NSYNC craze days. I couldn't help but smile.

Project Smile :]

2010-10-20T16:40:00.000-04:00

I have a shoe/purse addiction.A terrible one. Can you blame me? Doubt it.

Falling for Fall: Season Must-Haves #4

2010-10-19T13:54:00.003-04:00

Just because leaves don't fall here...doesn't mean I can't shake the tree.
Must-Have #4Hats
Forever XXI

Charlotte Russe

Miss Indie{blog/etsy}

Project Smile :]

2010-10-18T18:30:00.000-04:00

I smiled as I looked through this.

Project Smile :]

2010-10-17T21:36:00.000-04:00

Today I finished BOTH PowerPoint presentations that are due this week.

They came out spectacular. I'm so proud of myself. I was working like a mad woman.

But I finished. And I'm happy. And so I smile. :)

Project Smile :]

2010-10-17T01:41:00.000-04:00

I came across this through Lala, once again.I think it is a great idea so I am joining in.Hope you do to.Basically, you post something that makes you smile each day. Anything at all.To get more details, visit the creator's blog here.
So today, I found this picture over at We Heart It.

Umm, yeah, BIG SMILE. It's adorable.I also smiled when the boyfriend walked in with KFC mashed potatoes. Yum.

My Inner Child.

2010-10-17T00:45:00.000-04:00

Many times I find myself longing for things from when I was a child, watching television shows from back-in-the-day, wishing I had those books on-hand to read. I had a great childhood, even though I was thrown a big curve-ball when my father passed away when I was eight, I still manged to enjoy myself. Could you just imagine what it may have been like to just keep being sad for so long? I was only eight, so being sad "forever" would've been a long time. Sometimes I get reminded of all those things that used to bring a smile to my face.

Like playing with my Barbie dolls in my Barbie dream house...

Reading books like Arthur, The Babysitter's Club, Nancy Drew...

Watching Disney movies until I passed out on the couch...Waking up to watch Saturday morning cartoons like "Recess".

Of course I would watch "Power Rangers".

I remember getting Nickelodeon and the Disney Channel."All That", "Clarissa Explains it All", Disney Channel Original Movies...

I really miss my LiteBrite, remember those?

And my Easy-Bake Oven...

You know what makes me miss these even more?When I see my brother playing on his Wii, or watching Pokemon, or not doing anything creative.

I'm so Happy it's the Weekend {+ a fill-in}

2010-10-16T00:34:00.000-04:00

This has been quite the week.I have about four different projects going on at the same time.I've actually been managing my time quite well, thankfully.But add work into the mix, and I swear I've been THIS CLOSE to passing out more than once. There's just so much going on. I've been sitting in front of the computer hours on end, both at work and at home. Next week, I have a a group presentation, a solo presentation, and a test. *wipe sweat off forehead*I actually started a whole other blog that deals more with my journey towards becoming a teacher. I mostly just want it in order to keep track of all of my experiences and ideas. I hope you can check it out. :)
1. Blogging is kind of a sanctuary.
2. A current fashion trend I wish I was brave enough to wear is vintage dresses. I don't know why I don't just buy one.
3. My greatest accomplishment in life thus far is studying to become a teacher. :)
4. If I had to choose between a mountain or a beach vacation I'd choose a mountain vacation. I'm not a beach person, probably because I live in Florida. It kind of bores me.
5. A talent I wish I had is being more "crafty", like sewing. I wish I could sew.
6. A talent I do have is creativity. It comes naturally. My dad was crazy creative.
7. This week of working haaaaard has come to an end... kind of.
Well, I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend. Hopefully, I get around to posting some more...

Falling for Fall: Season Must-Haves #3

2010-10-12T13:36:00.001-04:00

Was that a breeze I just felt?Oh happy day!
Must-Have #3Outerwear
Forever XX1

Charlotte Russe

Old Navy

Modcloth

Delia's

Heels.

2010-10-09T00:08:00.000-04:00

I wear heels because I am short.

So, if I don't wear heels, I could possibly be stepped on.Anyways, my feet are killing me.I worked from 10:30-6:15. I was about ready to pass out.I work the drive-thru alone, and it was basically non-stop.I just stood up most of the time to move faster.Hence my aching feet.But...It's a long weekend for me!On Monday, it's back to my third graders.I'M SO HAPPY!

Chick-fil-A is the best fast food... :)

So, do you remember my "project"?

I finished the headband about two weeks ago, but never took a picture!

It came out amazing. Who knew I could be crafty?!

Thanks to Julia and Leigh Ashley! :)

Oh! And I finished reading Mockingjay!

It was amazing. These books are probably my favorite books ever. Without doubt.

I cried in the end, but I won't give any spoilers.

And the last few lines resulted in me getting the chills.

Here's to a wonderful weekend!

Just a Note.

2010-10-07T21:28:00.000-04:00

I had another rough night thanks to the pup. She is just way too hyper at night lately.Thankfully, she fell asleep faster than the past few days.So, of course, I woke up with puffy eyes, bags under said eyes, and aches and pains from tossing and turning.I did not want to go to class. This class, so far, as proven to be pointless...But I went, because I am such a responsible student. :\I had so much time to spare between the end of my class and work. (2 1/2 hours).I decided I would stay in my car, parked, at school and then at 10:45, I would drive to work and grab lunch.I get to my car and find this on my windshield:

(Please ignore finger, had to get my brother to hold paper. He has little 11 yr. old fingers, hahaha.)

I pretty much died of happiness. Some guy even looked at me weird because I was standing outside my car just there, reading a piece of paper over and over again smiling like a fool. It was basically awesome.

I have the greatest best friend, no doubt.

Oh, and just an FYI: The weather has been perfect for the past two days. 70's. Wind. Slightly cloudy.That is just a little slice of heaven.