Thursday, May 12, 2011

This School Year will End in...

roughly 6.5 hours....

My first year in a degree that will actually have an ROI... ;-)
It's definitely been tough. Working 40+ hours a week at work (and it sometimes still isn't enough for my boss, the joys of being salaried), AND going to school full-time. It's no easy feat, and quite honestly, I probably wouldn't have made it without the constant, love, support of Luke. For goodness sakes, there were times I wouldn't have had clean clothes if it weren't for him, or clean dishes, had he not done them. He has been truly amazing, and he's done it all without complaint. I'm so grateful he came back into my life.

Luke and I met five years ago, while I was at Wichita State (he also went to school there, and will graduate this summer from WSU with his Masters in Sports Management). We went on ONE date, one date only, and both walked away from the evening saying "Thanks, it's been fun, but yeah..." And mutually did not pursue each other any further. But here we are now, we've been together for 16 months, and we talk about forever together. I like to joke that our first date was God's little teaser. But we weren't ready for each other then, and patience just needed to kick in.

He was worth the wait, and I'm grateful for all the blessings he brings into my life. He helps me to be the woman I want to be...

Friday, May 6, 2011

A Healthier, Happier Me

Over the last 5 or 6 months, I've been so stressed, swamped, and exhausted that I've fallen out of the habit of taking care of ME! I occassionally use my CalorieCounter app on my phone, but because I haven't been so good, (and I know it), I just haven't been using it. I guess I just didn't want to face the fact, in black and white, in-your-face numbers, of how I was slipping. I felt like, at this point, there was nothing I could do about it.

My sister-in-law has been such an inspiration lately. She has truly taken charge of her life, and her happiness. She has a lot to be happy about too. She's getting ready to marry my brother (and we all love her, because she has made him SO happy!), has the cutest son ever, and has a beautiful life with her two guys. She's gotten really good at working out consistently, and making healthier choices though, because she didn't like looking at herself in the mirror (even though we all see a happy, beautiful woman). She uses the same CalorieCounter app that I use, but she takes a step further, using the website, to connect with other people, blogging on their website to talk about her struggles and successes, and she just connected with me on the website.

After accepting her friend request on www.myfitnesspal.com, I started exploring the website and everything you can do, I may have re-hooked myself to the initiative! It's all thanks to my sister-in-law, for reaching out and encouraging me.

If you guys haven't tried it, and are needing somewhere you can find encouragement, you should definitely try it.

Created by MyFitnessPal - Free Calorie Counter

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Trying to Renew

It's been so long since I "blogged". I've never really been that good at keeping it up... but I'm thinking that if I can update my status on facebook as much as I do, then I can at least try and blog from time to time! (Let's work towards daily, shall we?)

Luke and I have been figuring out moving back to Kansas. The biggest unknown factor is jobs. We're not able to move without a job to move for, so things are sort of up in the air at this point. And I constantly find myself exhausted, between working 40+ hours a week, and going to school full time. I'm trying to stay positive, and so I've started googling motivational sayings every morning to revive me, and get me going on the work track.

My biggest challenge these days, is finding motivation to keep/maintain my drive in everything I do. I find I am no longer the energizer bunny in my ripe old age of 28. (Yikes!) And I rarely feel like I'm not fighting exhaustion. I'm thinking a few days is the much needed regimen for combatting this issue. Luckily, finals are next weekend, and I'll regain my evenings at the very least afterwards.

Not sure anyone actually reads this, but... If you do, I'd love your feedback. What do you think of these issues?
How do you deal with exhaustion?
How do you get yourself to work out, even when you feel too tired to workout?
When you lack motivation, how to do you restart it?

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

A Cusp of Astrology

I am born on the cusp between Capricorn and Aquarius... As the new year inches its way toward us, and brings with it my 28th birthday (January 20th), I find it interesting to see how these two signs combine to round out my personality...

Take a look...

Capricorn natives tend to have reputations as workaholics, but there's much more to this Sun Sign than that!
Ruled by Uranus, Aquarius marches to the beat of a different drum! Learn more about this altruistic Sun Sign!
When it comes to professionalism and traditional values, Capricorn wins hands-down. This practical sign loves to tackle life in the most conventional of ways, leaving no stone unturned. Considered the most serious-minded of the signs, the Capricorn possesses an independence that allows for considerable progress both personally and on the job.
Aquarians present themselves in one of two ways. One on hand, you'll see someone who is shy and quiet. On the other, an Aquarius can be boisterous, eccentric, and energetic. Both are deep thinkers with a love of helping others. Highly intellectual, this is a fiercely independent sign that prizes intuition tempered with logic. Both personality types have an uncanny ability to see both sides of an argument without prejudice, making them excellent problem solvers. While very much attuned to the energies around them, Aquarians have a deep need to take time out alone and away to rejuvenate themselves. The keyword for this sign is imagination. The Aquarian can see a world of possibilities even when there appears to be none.

Friends and Family-Capricorn
Combining a strong wit and a love of humor, the Capricorn makes terrific company for those they choose as friends. They will surround themselves with people who are honest, loyal, and like-minded when it comes to working values. They cherish loved ones and will go any distance to help a friend or family member. Traditional by nature, the Capricorn loves nothing more than holidays, such as Christmas, that bring people together with a variety of activities. Although a Capricorn isn't apt to have a large social circle, those included in this sign's life will find someone who is steadfast and true.
Friends and Family-Aquarius
Even though Aquarians are great with groups of people, it takes a bit when it comes to making close friends. Deeply sensitive and cautious, closeness means vulnerability to an Aquarius, and this is not something to be taken lightly. (On the surface, with me, these can appear to not apply to me. I can be sociable, and will make friends quickly. However, if you were to dig deeper, you will see that for me to allow myself to be vulnerable and trusting with those around me, I am much more cautious. This may have developed after being burned by trusting too easily though.) Aquarians' direct, no-nonsense approach in combination with their strong values can make it challenging to get to know the inner person. Yet those who are able to do so will discover a friendship that lasts through the years. An Aquarius will go the distance for a loved one to the point of self-sacrifice if necessary. They look for creativity, intellect, and honesty in their friends. When it comes to family, the expectations are no less. Although dedicated to a sense of duty to relatives, the Aquarius isn't one for developing close bonds unless the same qualities they expect in their friendships are there. –Which is probably why I consider my closest friends to be family…

Career and Money-Capricorn
Ambition is the key word for this sign. The key phrase for Capricorn is I use. The Capricorn possesses a real knack for finding the right tool for the job and getting down to it. Starting at the bottom of the ladder and working their way to the top doesn't scare the Capricorn off. They will go the distance once a goal is set.
In addition to setting high standards for themselves, honesty, perseverance, and a dedication to duty make the Capricorn an excellent manager. Loyalty and a willingness to work as hard as necessary are qualities that this sign values greatly within themselves and in those around them. Careers in management, finance, teaching, and real estate are excellent choices.
Capricorns are resourceful and manage their time and money well (working on this!). Every now and then, the urge to spend some hard-earned cash can see this sign packing some large shopping bags with fun and frivolous items out of the store (haha, definitely me…). But as a rule, caution goes hand in hand with the Capricorn making practical purchases more likely than anything else (I’m going to bet I’m more Aquarius when it comes to this trait). Multifunctional items are definitely favored. (I do love multi-functionality… especially with clothes. My favorites clothing pieces are those that can be dressed up or down…)

Career and Money-Aquarius
Aquarians bring enthusiasm to the work they do, especially when it involves expression. They have an exceptionally high ability to put their imaginative qualities to the task and to think outside the box. Careers that allow for concept development or demonstration can suit this sign well. I know is the key phrase for the Aquarius. High intellect combined with an Aquarius' willingness to share their talents inspires many who work in the same environment. Being visionary types, Aquarians love to engage in careers that aim to benefit humankind in the long-run.

When it comes to money, this sign really has a knack for keeping a healthy balance between having the things that they need and putting money away. When they are out shopping, the shiny, glittery, and extravagant will catch their attention even though their homes are generally decorated with great taste. It's not uncommon to find the Aquarius turning heads dressed in daring, brightly colored outfits. Most are well-attuned to their individual sense of style and aren't afraid to show it.

Careers that suit the Aquarius are acting, writing, teaching, photography, or piloting. The best environment is one that gives the freedom to tackle the task without a lot of strict guidelines. The Aquarius is unconventional, and given the opportunity to show their true talents, they can perform amazing feats.

Love and Sex
The Capricorn is most often a serious lover, preferring to take things slow and steady. You won't see this sign jumping into anything head-first. Taking relationships one step at a time is the way of the Capricorn. The Capricorn values deeds and will go to great lengths to express their affections through them. They're great gift givers and don't bat an eye at the cost of spending a fantastic night out. Genuine and sincere, you can take what a Capricorn says to the bank.
Love and Sex
Intellectual stimulation is by far the greatest aphrodisiac for the Aquarian. There's nothing like a lively chat rich in culture and future possibilities to get this sign going. When it comes to love, people best suited are those that are not thrown off by Aquarian frankness. Open, communicative, imaginative, and willing to risk are all qualities that blend well with this sign's perspective on life. Honesty and sincerity are essential for anyone seeking a long-term connection to this dynamic personality.

CAPRICORN TIDBITS & AQUARIUS TIDBITS
Health-Capricorn
Each sign has a part of the anatomy attached to it, making this the area of the body that is most sensitive to stimulation. The anatomical areas for Capricorn are the knees and lower legs.
Health-Aquarius
Each sign has a part of the anatomy attached to it, making this the area of the body that is most sensitive to stimulation. The anatomical areas for Aquarius are the ankles.


Ruling Planet-C
The ruling planet for Capricorn is Saturn. Considered the taskmaster of the horoscope, Saturn rules theories, scientific law, patience, timing, tradition, conventionality, and the productive use of time.
Ruling Planet-A
The ruling planet for Aquarius is Uranus. This planet is considered the breaker of rules and tradition. Uranus rules psychology, inventions, originality, creative will, rebellion, and autonomy. This planet is futuristic, intellectual, and even eccentric.


Colors-CThe color of choice for Capricorn is brown. In fact, most dark colors do well for this sign.
Best Color-AThe color of choice for Aquarius is turquoise.


GemstoneCapricorn's star stone is the black onyx.
GemstoneAquarius' star stone is the turquoise.


Lucky Numbers
Capricorn's lucky numbers are 6, 8, and 9.
Lucky NumbersAquarius' lucky numbers are 2, 3, and 7.


CompatibilityCapricorns are most compatible with Taurus and Virgo.
Compatible SignsAquarians are most compatible with Gemini, Libra, and other Aquarians.


Opposite SignThe opposite sign for Capricorn is Cancer.
Opposite SignThe opposite sign for Aquarius is Leo.


The Perfect Gift-CapricornPractical, dark-colored, well-made clothing and high-tech gadgets
Perfect Gift-AquariusUnusual machines, music, books on favorite subjects, a gift to their favorite cause


Likes-CapricornFamily, tradition, quality craftsmanship, understated status, music
Likes-AquariusA good cause, being part of a club, scientific ideas, fun with friends, a good listener


Dislikes-CapricornAlmost everything at some point
Dislikes- AquariusDull or boring situations, people who disagree with them


House-CapricornNatural sign of the Tenth House. This house focuses on reputation, profession, authorities, and status.
House- AquariusNatural sign of the Eleventh House. This house focuses on friends, goals, hopes, wishes, circumstances beyond control, and love received.


Famous CapricornsMichelle Obama, Mary J. Blige, Nicolas Cage, Tiger Woods, Jon Voight, Denzel Washington, Elvis Presley, Martin Luther King, Muhammad Ali
Famous AquariansJohn Travolta, Ellen DeGeneres, Justin Timberlake, Shakira, Jennifer Aniston

Best Travel Destination-CapricornMexico, Cuba, India, Delphi, Oxford
Best Travel Destinations-AquariusSweden, Israel, Moscow, Salzburg

Strengths-CapricornResponsible, good managers, disciplined, self-control, dark sense of humor
Strengths-AquariusProgressive, original, humanitarian, independent

Weaknesses-CapricornKnow-it-all , condescending,
Weaknesses-AquariusUncompromising, temperamental, aloof


Charismatic marks-CapricornMedium build, can get in shape with effort but tends to be a bit soft
Charismatic Marks-Aquarius
Good looks, beautiful eyes, angular faces, thin build

Best environment-CapricornPositive work situation, urban environments with culture and style, anyplace to be in charge
Best Environment-Aquarius
Any gathering of people to exchange ideas

Reading that makes me wonder how I'm not bipolar! Haha! However, in all seriousness, when I reflect on my own internal struggles, what I pride myself on, how I am sometimes perceived, and who understand me best, and other parts of my personality, I come to this conclusion:

When it comes to professionalism and tradition, I strive to achieve a high sense of professionalism, while maintaining personal relations. I want to be respected, yet approachable. I am strong-minded, and independent, but also thrive in the companionship of others. I am often eccentric, goofy, boisterous, (some would say “attention-whore”, haha), but put me in a new, unknown, perhaps uncomfortable situation or event, and I revert into quiet and shy, wallflower mode. That is, unless the energy around me makes me comfortable enough to be outgoing enough to bridge the gap. Either way, I am definitely a deep thinker, daydreamer sort. When given the opportunity, I think on things for a long time, running multiple scenarios through my mind. However, light a spark under me, and you will see a much more rash person in front of you. It’s because of this, that my closest friends are really the only ones who know how to call me out, or know how to “handle me”, as I often put it. I’m a complex person to understand, and for most it takes a long time, with patience mixed in, to really understand me and why I do what I do, or why I think what I think.
I posses a desire to see all sides of an ideology, situation, discussion/debate, or problem. I want to understand it, I want to study it, and I want to look at it level-headed and logically. Yet, in a balance to this, I’m optimistic and imaginative. I’m a very visual person; when someone describes a scenario or situation, more times than not, I can see it…


Friends and Family
I love to laugh, I love humor. Watching good stand-up comedians, or seeing an improve show, are two of my favorite things to do. When someone can make me laugh, I develop a friendly affection for that person. It’s as though humor is a secret passageway to my inner spirit reserved for friends and family. Though I hold humor in high importance and regard, the most important trait in anyone I associate with is HONESTY and LOYALTY. And I strive to be nothing less with those around me. I am an extremely loyal friend, and if you ask my opinion, I will give you a straightforward, and honest answer. Yet, I try to do so with tact and care. I love my friends and family, and will often compliment them, to show so. I am always willing to bend over backwards for those around me, and even swallow my pride to provide healing or to strengthen bonds between me and another person. Swallowing my pride is certainly not easy, but if it will provide a way forward, I will do it… Even with every sacrifice or dedicated effort, though, I find myself guarded and cautious, so as to avoid being taken advantage of. For me, there is no line between family and friends, friends are family. Because the love is just as strong…

Career and Money
Ambition is definitely a big aspect of my career goals. Switching from a music centered career to an accounting career is a big leap, but I take it on with full force. The new information and areas that I’m delving into are fascinating and have re-ignited a desire to grow and learn within me. Mentally, I am fairly balanced between right-brained and left-brained. I am good with math and logic, but also good with arts, creativity, languages, etc… Therefore, I’m working to create a life that’s equally as balanced. Working in accounting has given me structure and challenges, that I balance out with creative outlets, such as singing and photography.
In starting a new career path, I know I will need to pay my dues, and I am prepared to do that. I work hard, and dedicate myself, so that I can create a bigger, brighter future down the road. I am willing and eager to learn from those I work with that have more experience and expertise. I set a high standard for myself and am disappointed in myself whenever I make a mistake.
With all the hard work, though, I like to reward myself. I enjoy being pampered with pedicures and massages, a new outfit, or a new pair of shoes, or going out for a night on the town with a special someone or friends. I like to be fashionable and fun, and loved to be complimented on my style.

Love
I take love seriously, and never pursue a relationship unless I see long-term (preferably lifetime) potential. I try to maintain a balance of being smart about the progression of a relationship with being willing to take the risk and go for it. With love, I know that there are no certainties, and risks are necessary in this game of life, love, and all things great.

Thursday, January 7, 2010

Dear God, It's Me Again Introduction

I'm not sure that many people will read or run across this blog, but hopefully if it does, it will reach and help someone. If not, hopefully it will help me!

It's 2010. January. The beginning of a new year. The beginning of a new decade. Hopefully the beginning of new era for me. Hopefully the beginning of a new, better me. This last year (the year will remain nameless to save its identity) was a particularly rough year. I was in the midst of a new career that was proving itself to be extra tough. Every day was a challenge. Every day was a rollercoaster of emotions and ups and downs, a true test of my character, and I can't help but think that I totally and completely failed. Things got better as I got closer to my best friend (as she became my "besty"), started, yet again, a new career (but this one is much better, and I'm not failing at it, as of yet!), and things seemed to start falling in place. Falling in place everywhere, that is, except my love life. That was the big rock that I stubbed my toe on and then fell over at the end of that year. But that was then, and this is now. I feel refreshed, and renewed to start taking back ME. And it will happen, because this time I'm going to do things right. I will listen more closely to God. Everytime things have worked out, or I've been able to pick myself up and dust myself off, have been because I was more intuned to God.

I think that writing this out, tracking my goals, and expressing my attempts to figure out what exactly I'm hearing from God, will help me. However, we all, as a human race, seem to go through similar endeavors and tribulations, and so hopefully my attempts to figure myself out will help anyone who happens to stumble upon this meager blog.