It's hard to believe that today is the last day of 2011. The year has most definitely flown by and I sit here reflecting on the past year.
There were ups and downs as is the normal for each year to go by. I think I'll go through each month and share the major events that have happened that stand out to me.
January:
-Rang in the New Year with J! It was the first time we were together for it. Although I had to work up until 11:30 on New Years Eve, and only got home about 2 minutes after midnight that night.
- Applied to Grad school and for internships with Dietitians of Canada
- Had my accident with the sidewalk snow plow. I was crossing the street on January 20th, in the crosswalk when a sidewalk snow plow operator wasn't paying attention as he was driving and struck me with the vehicle. He called an ambulance but I was awake and responsive (actually got up right away and was going to continue walking but took the advice of the witnesses and the paramedics to go to the hospital to get checked out). Wasn't seriously injured, but will always remember that day.
February:
- First Valentine's day with J - it was low key but still romantic
March:
- 1 year anniversary with J.
- Got my first tattoo!
- Turned down for internships
- Accepted into Graduate program for Applied Human Nutrition
April:
- My Granmom passed away. She was one of my family members that I was closest to, so took it pretty hard.
- Left my job as Supervisor at the coffee place after many months of basically hating it.
May:
- Can't really remember any major events that happened in this month. I was unemployed and seeking jobs at this time. Also had my 23rd birthday.
June:
- Was hired at the Grocery store
July & August:
- worked for Sobeys in the Deli department. A job that I enjoyed. It helped me to save money
September:
- Moved to Halifax for school
September-December:
- completed my first semester of Grad school with tons of hard work and came out with an A average.
- took up hula hooping for exercise and started my journey to lose weight
- decided to learn 60's style go go dancing as well for exercise and really enjoyed it
- Spent a fantastic Christmas with my family and the love of my life.
So as you can see, I had a lot more ups than downs throughout 2011. Although overall I felt very lonely and isolated, more so throughout the last few months. And losing my Grandmother was hard on me, still is, as I think of her often even now and miss her like crazy. So I'm hoping 2012 will bring forth more happiness and less loneliness as I finish my last 2 semesters of my Grad program. I'm also hoping to get engaged to J this coming year (ssshh don't tell him I said that), and landing a job to work throughout the year.
What events in 2011 have stuck out for you?
Saturday, 31 December 2011
Thursday, 29 December 2011
Christmas
A picture of our Christmas tree this year
Wow, the last few days have been extremely busy with Christmas celebrations.
Firstly, J made it to my hometown safely and on time. His father drove him out of New Brunswick so he could catch the bus in Amherst on Christmas day and travel to my hometown.
Christmas morning itself was pretty low key with just my mother, sister and myself there. We opened our presents that were there at the time, and just relaxed until J arrived. I was tired because I couldn't fall asleep as easily the night before. Even at the age of 23, I have trouble sleeping on Christmas eve as I get too excited to sleep. It wasn't really for Christmas time though, I was more excited to see J later that day as it had already been 6 weeks since I had seen him last.
The next couple of days following Christmas ended up being super busy. On boxing day, my other sister and my brother arrived with their significant others. We had another round of opening gifts with them, followed by another large meal, this time it was ribs and a caesar salad.
On the 27th, we had to wake up earlyish again in order for my mom's else to be showed to potential buyers. We had to be out of the house by 11am, so we decided to go to my dad's house. That was the plan anyway, but he was expecting us at noon or a little earlier. At my dad's we had another round of Christmas with him and his wife. This was then followed by another Turkey dinner and playing Apples to Apples with everybody.
Then yesterday, J and I left my hometown and travelled to Moncton by train, because J had to work today. Upon arriving, we discovered his cat had vomitted on his bed sheets in 3 different spots while he was away. So we started a load of laundry and threw the sheets in. Then he got me to do the dishes we brought down from his room while he organized his living room. I ended up doing the whole stack of dishes that were just sitting in the kitchen, including the ones his roommates used and didn't bother to clean yet. Yeah I went to visit him and ended up doing more housework than the roommates do. lol. But now his kitchen is tidy and all the dishes are done so hopefully the roommates will be more considerate and pick up after themselves more. It probably bugs one of them that I came in and cleaned everything up. I didn't do it to be spiteful to them, I did it because I saw how frustrated J was getting.
So it was a busy Christmas vacation. Hopefully we can relax a bit more now. J actually joked that he is now on vacation from his vacation now that he is back at work. I get to relax and spend time with him for the next 5 days before I have to return to Halifax for winter semester.
I got two grades back so far from the Fall semester. An A+ in one class, and an A- in another. I was quite pleased when those finally showed up.
Even though Christmas was a lot busier than normal, I still enjoyed it a lot. It was great to spend time around more people than just myself, and especially nice to see J again.
Hope everyone is having marvellous Holidays!
Top: Me opening a present on Christmas day!
Bottom: Me and J
Thursday, 22 December 2011
How do you know?
So tonight I ran into a little bit of upset while talking with my family. See, I have expressed that someday I truly believe that J and I will marry each other. We've been together for two years now. We have discussed this before and we just know that we want to be together for a long time.
Then my brother N piped up with his opinion. He claims that there are some couples that should be together for at least 5 years before they get married. And then went on to say that J and I have only technically been dating for a year and a half, since we lived together for 16 months so that's all that counts. And that the whole long distance thing and online meeting thing doesn't really count.
I started to get upset with this, because I'm very protective of my relationship with J. I know that we started out in an unconventional way. But we're still together and our bond only gets stronger. Every person and every relationship is going to be different in some way. My relationship with J is definitely not the same as N's relationship with his girlfriend. He met her living in our hometown, they worked together, and then moved to Halifax together.
He has never been in a long distance relationship or a relationship that started out on an online dating site. So the way I see it, he's trying to "school" me on a topic he has no personal knowledge about.
I just know that I'm happy with J, and our relationship happened to start out online, but the feelings were real. The conversations were real. We still went out on dates when we visited each other. We decided to only date each other in that time we were together. By my definition, we were dating each other and that time most definitely counts.
I suppose I'm just frustrated because my family has a more traditional view of things, especially when it comes to dating. I went against the "norm" in a way by initially meeting J online. I believe I can testify for online dating and long distance relationships because I have actually experienced them.
Has anyone tried to give you advice on something they actually had no personal knowledge or experiences with? How does one really know what is real or what isn't real unless they have actually lived through the experience?
I mentioned this conversation to J because I was upset over it, and he said that sometimes outside advice is a good thing, but in this case it's not. lol He seems to always have the right things to say :)
Then my brother N piped up with his opinion. He claims that there are some couples that should be together for at least 5 years before they get married. And then went on to say that J and I have only technically been dating for a year and a half, since we lived together for 16 months so that's all that counts. And that the whole long distance thing and online meeting thing doesn't really count.
I started to get upset with this, because I'm very protective of my relationship with J. I know that we started out in an unconventional way. But we're still together and our bond only gets stronger. Every person and every relationship is going to be different in some way. My relationship with J is definitely not the same as N's relationship with his girlfriend. He met her living in our hometown, they worked together, and then moved to Halifax together.
He has never been in a long distance relationship or a relationship that started out on an online dating site. So the way I see it, he's trying to "school" me on a topic he has no personal knowledge about.
I just know that I'm happy with J, and our relationship happened to start out online, but the feelings were real. The conversations were real. We still went out on dates when we visited each other. We decided to only date each other in that time we were together. By my definition, we were dating each other and that time most definitely counts.
I suppose I'm just frustrated because my family has a more traditional view of things, especially when it comes to dating. I went against the "norm" in a way by initially meeting J online. I believe I can testify for online dating and long distance relationships because I have actually experienced them.
Has anyone tried to give you advice on something they actually had no personal knowledge or experiences with? How does one really know what is real or what isn't real unless they have actually lived through the experience?
I mentioned this conversation to J because I was upset over it, and he said that sometimes outside advice is a good thing, but in this case it's not. lol He seems to always have the right things to say :)
Wednesday, 21 December 2011
Making Progress
So I mentioned that I am on the long challenging journey of losing weight.
Last time I weighed myself was on Thanksgiving, which almost made me cry.
I've been working hard with hula hooping and go go robics (fast paced 60's Go Go dancing) over the last 2 months, but wasn't sure if any results were coming out of it.
Then today my mother came to pick me up to take me home for the holidays. She kept my Grandmother's scale, so a few minutes after I arriving home, I went searching for the scale as I was curious. I was nervous, but stepped on it anyway.
Almost 10 pounds lighter! (Actually, that's a estimate since I was wearing a few layers when I decided to check so I think the clothes accounted for at least 3 pounds). I'll have to check again later, preferably in the morning as I don't have the weight of gravity pushing down on me all day first thing in the morning.
But I'm making progress and I couldn't be happier.
Baby steps :)
Last time I weighed myself was on Thanksgiving, which almost made me cry.
I've been working hard with hula hooping and go go robics (fast paced 60's Go Go dancing) over the last 2 months, but wasn't sure if any results were coming out of it.
Then today my mother came to pick me up to take me home for the holidays. She kept my Grandmother's scale, so a few minutes after I arriving home, I went searching for the scale as I was curious. I was nervous, but stepped on it anyway.
Almost 10 pounds lighter! (Actually, that's a estimate since I was wearing a few layers when I decided to check so I think the clothes accounted for at least 3 pounds). I'll have to check again later, preferably in the morning as I don't have the weight of gravity pushing down on me all day first thing in the morning.
But I'm making progress and I couldn't be happier.
Baby steps :)
Sunday, 18 December 2011
Struggling
As Christmas approaches I'm beginning to face a challenge. Sweets.
They are kryptonite in a way. Although I don't think kryptonite would taste so delicious.
(look at me making Superman references, I think J's nerdiness is rubbing off on me)
Anyway, I have a goal that I'd like to achieve by the end of 2012. It's not a realistic goal to set for one month so I figure a year is possible. I want and need to lose 60+ pounds by the end of next year. I want to because I want to feel desirable and sexy. Which I can't do with flabby arms and stomach.
I need to because right now my BMI is sitting over the 30 mark. Which in scientific terms means I'm classified as obese. I never really saw myself that way until recently though.
I noticed it a lot more at my dance classes though. All the other girls were skinny minnies and I stuck out like a sore thumb.
The risk of developing type II diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer increases as a person's weight increases. The heavier you are, the more likely you are to develop these things. Plus family medical history can play a role. So far, on both sides of my family thyroid problems exist, as well as diabetes and high blood pressure. Being "obese" (god I hate that term) is something I can actually fix now and maintain throughout my lifespan.
So I started doing daily exercise. 30-60 minutes of hula hooping a day. And cutting back on consuming sweets. I can't seem to cut those out completely, otherwise I'd revert back to my old ways. Baby steps is key.
A little at a time is a safer and healthier way, and every little bit counts.
I'm hoping with J there on Christmas, he'll be there to support me and help me through my struggle.
Although, he still thinks of me as beautiful and sexy, I think I need to see it for myself after I shed a few pounds.
All that candy and homemade goodies are just so tempting. I just need the willpower to limit myself to them.
Wish me luck! It's a long journey ahead of me.
They are kryptonite in a way. Although I don't think kryptonite would taste so delicious.
(look at me making Superman references, I think J's nerdiness is rubbing off on me)
Anyway, I have a goal that I'd like to achieve by the end of 2012. It's not a realistic goal to set for one month so I figure a year is possible. I want and need to lose 60+ pounds by the end of next year. I want to because I want to feel desirable and sexy. Which I can't do with flabby arms and stomach.
I need to because right now my BMI is sitting over the 30 mark. Which in scientific terms means I'm classified as obese. I never really saw myself that way until recently though.
I noticed it a lot more at my dance classes though. All the other girls were skinny minnies and I stuck out like a sore thumb.
The risk of developing type II diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer increases as a person's weight increases. The heavier you are, the more likely you are to develop these things. Plus family medical history can play a role. So far, on both sides of my family thyroid problems exist, as well as diabetes and high blood pressure. Being "obese" (god I hate that term) is something I can actually fix now and maintain throughout my lifespan.
So I started doing daily exercise. 30-60 minutes of hula hooping a day. And cutting back on consuming sweets. I can't seem to cut those out completely, otherwise I'd revert back to my old ways. Baby steps is key.
A little at a time is a safer and healthier way, and every little bit counts.
I'm hoping with J there on Christmas, he'll be there to support me and help me through my struggle.
Although, he still thinks of me as beautiful and sexy, I think I need to see it for myself after I shed a few pounds.
All that candy and homemade goodies are just so tempting. I just need the willpower to limit myself to them.
Wish me luck! It's a long journey ahead of me.
Saturday, 17 December 2011
All I want for Christmas...
I don't want a lot for Christmas
There is just one thing I need
I don't care about the presents
Underneath the Christmas tree
I just want you for my own
More than you could ever know
Make my wish come true
All I want for Christmas
Is you
I don't want a lot for Christmas
There is just one thing I need
And I don't care about the presents
Underneath the Christmas tree
I don't need to hang my stocking
There upon the fireplace
Santa Claus won't make me happy
With a toy on Christmas Day
I just want you for my own
More than you could ever know
Make my wish come true
All I want for Christmas is you
You baby
Oh I won't ask for much this Christmas
I won't even wish for snow
And I'm just gonna keep on waiting
Underneath the mistletoe
I won't make a list and send it
To the North Pole for Saint Nick
I won't even stay awake to
Hear those magic reindeer click
'Cause I just want you here tonight
Holding on to me so tight
What more can I do?
Baby all I want for Christmas is you
You
Oh all the lights are shining
So brightly everywhere
And the sound of children's
Laughter fills the air
And everyone is singing
I hear those sleigh bells ringing
Santa won't you bring me the one I really need?
Won't you please bring my baby to me?
Oh I don't want a lot for Christmas
This is all I'm asking for
I just want to see my baby
Standing right outside my door
Oh I just want you for my own
More than you could ever know
Make my wish come true
Baby all I want for Christmas is
You baby
All I want for Christmas is you baby
All I want for Christmas is you baby
All I want for Christmas is you baby
There is just one thing I need
I don't care about the presents
Underneath the Christmas tree
I just want you for my own
More than you could ever know
Make my wish come true
All I want for Christmas
Is you
I don't want a lot for Christmas
There is just one thing I need
And I don't care about the presents
Underneath the Christmas tree
I don't need to hang my stocking
There upon the fireplace
Santa Claus won't make me happy
With a toy on Christmas Day
I just want you for my own
More than you could ever know
Make my wish come true
All I want for Christmas is you
You baby
Oh I won't ask for much this Christmas
I won't even wish for snow
And I'm just gonna keep on waiting
Underneath the mistletoe
I won't make a list and send it
To the North Pole for Saint Nick
I won't even stay awake to
Hear those magic reindeer click
'Cause I just want you here tonight
Holding on to me so tight
What more can I do?
Baby all I want for Christmas is you
You
Oh all the lights are shining
So brightly everywhere
And the sound of children's
Laughter fills the air
And everyone is singing
I hear those sleigh bells ringing
Santa won't you bring me the one I really need?
Won't you please bring my baby to me?
Oh I don't want a lot for Christmas
This is all I'm asking for
I just want to see my baby
Standing right outside my door
Oh I just want you for my own
More than you could ever know
Make my wish come true
Baby all I want for Christmas is
You baby
All I want for Christmas is you baby
All I want for Christmas is you baby
All I want for Christmas is you baby
*************************************************************************
This is one of my favourite Christmas songs. And since Christmas eve is a week away, I thought it'd be appropriate to post this song, because it showcases how I'm feeling this year. All I want for Christmas is to see J. And it seems my wish is coming true.
We're still trying to figure out the definite travel plans, as the buses in New Brunswick and PEI are still on strike/locked out, so the issue is getting him out of New Brunswick so he can catch the bus in Amherst and get to my hometown for Christmas. I probably won't sleep much on Christmas eve, just worrying about if he's going to make it to his destination to catch the bus on time.
So my wish for Christmas is that everything runs smoothly and I get to see my wonderful man. :)
What is your Christmas (or Holiday for those that don't celebrate Christmas) wish this year?
Friday, 16 December 2011
Nothing yet
Since last Friday, I've been on Christmas break. It's been a relaxing time. I've cleaned my apartment multiple times. Been able to meet up with some friends for coffee or shopping. As well as just take it easy, enjoying my time off.
However, I'm curious to see my final marks for the semester. There were two final projects that were handed in at the beginning of the month, so two weeks later, I had hoped that the professors had already looked at the final assignments and marked them.
But that doesn't seem to be the case. So I continue to wait to see how I did. I frequently check the website on my school's page that takes me to my unofficial transcript. Nothing yet.
Hopefully something will be there by next week. I want to share my achievements with my family while I'm home for Christmas break. My father always asks about marks.
Plus I managed to stay focused on my school work this semester. Even with the constant loneliness of missing J while he stayed in Moncton, I managed to get my work done ahead of time most times, and not get too distracted.
It was a step up from my undergrad, which I didn't think I took as seriously as I should have.
See, through high school I managed to get first class honours when I graduated with minimal studying. I was able to take tests well and remember the material I learned quite easily.
But in undergrad, it was a harsh reality. I let myself get distracted. I still passed all my courses, but my grades weren't the highest.
So this time around I decided to do things differently. I had no choice really. 2 C's on my transcript in this Master's program and they will ask me to leave the program. So I have to strive for higher. I'm thinking I'll be getting A's across the board this semester but want to be completely sure.
Hopefully Monday I'll have some solid results.
However, I'm curious to see my final marks for the semester. There were two final projects that were handed in at the beginning of the month, so two weeks later, I had hoped that the professors had already looked at the final assignments and marked them.
But that doesn't seem to be the case. So I continue to wait to see how I did. I frequently check the website on my school's page that takes me to my unofficial transcript. Nothing yet.
Hopefully something will be there by next week. I want to share my achievements with my family while I'm home for Christmas break. My father always asks about marks.
Plus I managed to stay focused on my school work this semester. Even with the constant loneliness of missing J while he stayed in Moncton, I managed to get my work done ahead of time most times, and not get too distracted.
It was a step up from my undergrad, which I didn't think I took as seriously as I should have.
See, through high school I managed to get first class honours when I graduated with minimal studying. I was able to take tests well and remember the material I learned quite easily.
But in undergrad, it was a harsh reality. I let myself get distracted. I still passed all my courses, but my grades weren't the highest.
So this time around I decided to do things differently. I had no choice really. 2 C's on my transcript in this Master's program and they will ask me to leave the program. So I have to strive for higher. I'm thinking I'll be getting A's across the board this semester but want to be completely sure.
Hopefully Monday I'll have some solid results.
Tuesday, 13 December 2011
It's a material world!
My brother actually posted this video on his facebook. I decided to watch it, because every time N posts a video it's usually pretty funny.
And this one is.
I was quite shocked at these children's reactions. Are we too materialistic nowadays? They didn't appreciate a gift from their parents because it wasn't the toy they wanted.
I know when I was a child if I received something I didn't particularly care for, I still smiled and said thank you to my parents. Or whoever gave me the gift.
Because Christmas is not supposed to be about the gifts. It's supposed to be the sharing of happiness and joy among family and friends.Although that's not how the media really markets it, and kids get sucked into that. Unfortunate but true.
How would you react if you received the gifts these kids in this video received?
Monday, 12 December 2011
Not this again
Last month I came down with the flu. I had the fever, muscle and joint pains, cough, headache, etc.
All of that lasted about 2 and a half weeks. The fever lasted 24 hours but the rest lingered on.
I had about 1 week of no coughing or anything.
But now my nose is all stuffy!
Seems I'm getting sick again.
The only thing I can think of that's causing this never ending sickness is that I ride the buses through Halifax quite often. I need the bus system to get back and forth to different places, as does a lot of people. Unfortunately the buses are an environment that germs and bacteria like to linger in. And it keeps getting me. Even if I use hand sanitizer.
Hopefully this clears up soon though. I'll be counting on vicks tonight to clear up my airways.
All of that lasted about 2 and a half weeks. The fever lasted 24 hours but the rest lingered on.
I had about 1 week of no coughing or anything.
But now my nose is all stuffy!
Seems I'm getting sick again.
The only thing I can think of that's causing this never ending sickness is that I ride the buses through Halifax quite often. I need the bus system to get back and forth to different places, as does a lot of people. Unfortunately the buses are an environment that germs and bacteria like to linger in. And it keeps getting me. Even if I use hand sanitizer.
Hopefully this clears up soon though. I'll be counting on vicks tonight to clear up my airways.
Sunday, 11 December 2011
Ebay can be dangerous
Especially if you're a bit of a shopaholic like me. Who is on student loans and needs to limit her spending... lol
My favourite thing to shop for on ebay is shoes. See, I have size 11 feet. And shoe stores don't normally carry a lot of nice looking shoes in those sizes. But ebay does.
Especially go go boots. Oh how I want a pair. I'm just learning some 60's style go go dancing, and would like to accessorize!
lol
Even though the last class is next weekend, it'd still be fun to continue what I've been learning.
What is your favourite thing to look for on ebay?
My favourite thing to shop for on ebay is shoes. See, I have size 11 feet. And shoe stores don't normally carry a lot of nice looking shoes in those sizes. But ebay does.
Especially go go boots. Oh how I want a pair. I'm just learning some 60's style go go dancing, and would like to accessorize!
lol
Even though the last class is next weekend, it'd still be fun to continue what I've been learning.
What is your favourite thing to look for on ebay?
Friday, 9 December 2011
Sleepless in Seattle
Okay, so this isn't exactly Seattle, it's Halifax.
But I'm really quite sleepless lately and I don't understand why.
Two nights ago I didn't fall asleep until 6am. I guessed that it was because my brain was thinking about the paper I had started but didn't finish that day.
So yesterday I finished the paper. Printed it out and stapled it to be handed in today. I still didn't get to sleep until 2:30ish. Which is an improvement from 6am. But still.
Now it's 1:22am, and I'm still awake. But even if I feel tired and sleepy, I can't fall asleep. Stressing about it won't help either.
But I'm really quite frustrated, as I tend to usually be awesome at falling asleep. Anytime of the day I could lay down on my bed and fall asleep within minutes.
Now...well... not so much.
I tried giving up caffeine. And tried doing exercise in the evening to tire me out. But I think it backfired.
Having a cup of hot chocolate the other night seemed to calm me enough to put me asleep. But I can't do that too often as hot chocolate carries a lot of calories. And since the body's systems slow down at night, not all of those calories get used properly. Plus it's bad to have sugary things on your teeth before bed.
Maybe I need an intervention of some sort. Acupuncture? Massage?
Or maybe I just need to be closer to J. His warm body next to mind and the steady beat of his heart makes me fall into a sweet dreamland quite easily.
Only 15 more days until I see him again. I can't wait!
But hopefully I can get some sleep before then lol.
What are some remedies to fall asleep quicker?
But I'm really quite sleepless lately and I don't understand why.
Two nights ago I didn't fall asleep until 6am. I guessed that it was because my brain was thinking about the paper I had started but didn't finish that day.
So yesterday I finished the paper. Printed it out and stapled it to be handed in today. I still didn't get to sleep until 2:30ish. Which is an improvement from 6am. But still.
Now it's 1:22am, and I'm still awake. But even if I feel tired and sleepy, I can't fall asleep. Stressing about it won't help either.
But I'm really quite frustrated, as I tend to usually be awesome at falling asleep. Anytime of the day I could lay down on my bed and fall asleep within minutes.
Now...well... not so much.
I tried giving up caffeine. And tried doing exercise in the evening to tire me out. But I think it backfired.
Having a cup of hot chocolate the other night seemed to calm me enough to put me asleep. But I can't do that too often as hot chocolate carries a lot of calories. And since the body's systems slow down at night, not all of those calories get used properly. Plus it's bad to have sugary things on your teeth before bed.
Maybe I need an intervention of some sort. Acupuncture? Massage?
Or maybe I just need to be closer to J. His warm body next to mind and the steady beat of his heart makes me fall into a sweet dreamland quite easily.
Only 15 more days until I see him again. I can't wait!
But hopefully I can get some sleep before then lol.
What are some remedies to fall asleep quicker?
Tuesday, 6 December 2011
Girl's Night
After the last few months of hard work and stress, I was able to get out for a girls night with my best friend tonight.
Something I really needed.
There were a bunch of girls at this girls night, some I had just met, but it was a fun time.
See, I sort of have felt like I've in a bit of a rut lately since I moved to Halifax. It dawned on me last night in a moment of severe loneliness that I didn't quite make as many new friends as I had hoped during my first semester of my Masters.
Sure a lot of the girls in my program were nice and all, but I got the feeling they didn't really want to hang out with me outside of class.
Over the last couple of months I gradually added a few to Facebook, which might have been a bad idea, because I was then exposed to seeing them post pictures of different outings with each other. Outings I wasn't even invited to.
It kind of hurt.
I like to think I'm a great person to know. I can be funny, most times without even trying, and am generally a pleasant person to be around.
Sure, I can be quiet and awkward at first. But once you get to know me I'm a great friend.
I kind of wish these girls had taken the time to do that.
At first I tried to step out of my comfort zone and introduce myself and talk to them.
I've felt left out of a lot of things in the last couple of months, spending multiple nights alone in my apartment.
*sigh* Living in Halifax isn't what I thought it would be.
I really miss J. And Moncton.
Anyway, girls night.
I needed to get out of my apartment and do something for once. And my best friend happened to be in the city for a few days.
We went out for a delicious supper at Montanas (although tonight the service was surprisingly bad, they must have been having an off night), followed by catching the movie Puss in Boots for cheap night at the theatre.
Thoroughly entertaining.
It was a great way to unwind and spend time with my best friend. :D Hopefully we'll have more of these in the future.
In the meantime I'm going to try and make some new friends. Without trying too hard of course. People can see right through that.
Something I really needed.
There were a bunch of girls at this girls night, some I had just met, but it was a fun time.
See, I sort of have felt like I've in a bit of a rut lately since I moved to Halifax. It dawned on me last night in a moment of severe loneliness that I didn't quite make as many new friends as I had hoped during my first semester of my Masters.
Sure a lot of the girls in my program were nice and all, but I got the feeling they didn't really want to hang out with me outside of class.
Over the last couple of months I gradually added a few to Facebook, which might have been a bad idea, because I was then exposed to seeing them post pictures of different outings with each other. Outings I wasn't even invited to.
It kind of hurt.
I like to think I'm a great person to know. I can be funny, most times without even trying, and am generally a pleasant person to be around.
Sure, I can be quiet and awkward at first. But once you get to know me I'm a great friend.
I kind of wish these girls had taken the time to do that.
At first I tried to step out of my comfort zone and introduce myself and talk to them.
I've felt left out of a lot of things in the last couple of months, spending multiple nights alone in my apartment.
*sigh* Living in Halifax isn't what I thought it would be.
I really miss J. And Moncton.
Anyway, girls night.
I needed to get out of my apartment and do something for once. And my best friend happened to be in the city for a few days.
We went out for a delicious supper at Montanas (although tonight the service was surprisingly bad, they must have been having an off night), followed by catching the movie Puss in Boots for cheap night at the theatre.
Thoroughly entertaining.
It was a great way to unwind and spend time with my best friend. :D Hopefully we'll have more of these in the future.
In the meantime I'm going to try and make some new friends. Without trying too hard of course. People can see right through that.
Sunday, 4 December 2011
I'm like Martha Stewart... without the jail sentence
Only three more weeks until Christmas!
I say Christmas because that is the holiday I celebrate, and the holiday I`m excited for.
Anyway, I did all my Christmas shopping two weeks ago. On a Sunday, in about 2 hours.
It was actually 2 days after I had a fever, so what possessed me to go shopping in that zombie like condition is beyond me. I guess it was on my mind and I wanted to get it over with. December was nearing at the time, and I tend to like avoiding the malls after December 1st because they get crazy!
That's not to say that the malls weren't crazy when I actually ventured out for that Christmas shopping in Mid-November.
Anyway, that's beside the point. The point is that when I went Christmas shopping, I stopped in at Walmart to pick up a picture I had ordered online to get developed. I also decided to pick up wrapping paper and other Christmassy things. Problem was, I couldn't find any gift tags anywhere! They were no where to be found in the Christmas section at the entrance of the store.
They might've been in a different section, but like I said, I was just coming off a fever, and the place was already turning crazy busy, so I didn't want to walk around looking for Christmas tags.
So when I wrapped my gifts, I made sure to label them with post it notes. I was going to keep the post it notes on the gifts, but tonight I decided to actually MAKE personalized gift tags.
I opened up a word document on my computer, and made a table. I then counted how many gifts I had that needed tags, searched for some clipart, and then printed them out. I could've just stuck them on the gifts like that, but no, I decided to be creative, and give each of them a cardboard backing, with little squares of wrapping paper (to hide the ugliness of the cardboard).
I thought this whole ordeal would only take a few minutes, but it actually turned out to take almost 2 hours.
The people I give my Christmas gifts to better keep the gift tags lol I put a lot of work into them. I could possibly even use them for next year lol
Have you ever had to get creative to do something? What was it? How did it turn out?
I say Christmas because that is the holiday I celebrate, and the holiday I`m excited for.
Anyway, I did all my Christmas shopping two weeks ago. On a Sunday, in about 2 hours.
It was actually 2 days after I had a fever, so what possessed me to go shopping in that zombie like condition is beyond me. I guess it was on my mind and I wanted to get it over with. December was nearing at the time, and I tend to like avoiding the malls after December 1st because they get crazy!
That's not to say that the malls weren't crazy when I actually ventured out for that Christmas shopping in Mid-November.
Anyway, that's beside the point. The point is that when I went Christmas shopping, I stopped in at Walmart to pick up a picture I had ordered online to get developed. I also decided to pick up wrapping paper and other Christmassy things. Problem was, I couldn't find any gift tags anywhere! They were no where to be found in the Christmas section at the entrance of the store.
They might've been in a different section, but like I said, I was just coming off a fever, and the place was already turning crazy busy, so I didn't want to walk around looking for Christmas tags.
So when I wrapped my gifts, I made sure to label them with post it notes. I was going to keep the post it notes on the gifts, but tonight I decided to actually MAKE personalized gift tags.
I opened up a word document on my computer, and made a table. I then counted how many gifts I had that needed tags, searched for some clipart, and then printed them out. I could've just stuck them on the gifts like that, but no, I decided to be creative, and give each of them a cardboard backing, with little squares of wrapping paper (to hide the ugliness of the cardboard).
I thought this whole ordeal would only take a few minutes, but it actually turned out to take almost 2 hours.
The people I give my Christmas gifts to better keep the gift tags lol I put a lot of work into them. I could possibly even use them for next year lol
Have you ever had to get creative to do something? What was it? How did it turn out?
Friday, 2 December 2011
Jittery no more
I'm not sure if I mentioned it here, but I'm a diet pepsi addict.
Every day I need my fix of diet pepsi or I get a little grumpy.
But I noticed since I moved to Halifax, I was drinking way too much diet pepsi. Especially late at night, so it would affect my sleeping. I was way too jittery and awake, even very late at night.
So I decided to try something new. I started buying the non-caffeinated diet pepsi they have available.
I have to say, I'm actually quite happy about the switch. It still gives me the diet pepsi fix and taste, but without the caffeine.
Hmm maybe eventually I'll be able to kick this diet pepsi addiction. People like to school me on the effects of aspartame, even though I'm a Nutrition student. lol
We'll see I guess :D
Every day I need my fix of diet pepsi or I get a little grumpy.
But I noticed since I moved to Halifax, I was drinking way too much diet pepsi. Especially late at night, so it would affect my sleeping. I was way too jittery and awake, even very late at night.
So I decided to try something new. I started buying the non-caffeinated diet pepsi they have available.
I have to say, I'm actually quite happy about the switch. It still gives me the diet pepsi fix and taste, but without the caffeine.
Hmm maybe eventually I'll be able to kick this diet pepsi addiction. People like to school me on the effects of aspartame, even though I'm a Nutrition student. lol
We'll see I guess :D
Tuesday, 29 November 2011
A strike
I was informed today that the employees of Acadian Lines might be going on strike as of this coming Friday.
This is the coach line that travels all over the Maritimes. I'm a frequent customer, as I don't have my own vehicle. So I use this bus line to go see J in Moncton, and my parents in the Nish.
A strike at this time is actually stressing me out.
Many people's Christmas plans might be put in Jeopardy if it happens to go on for a long time (if the strike goes forth that is). Including my own.
J is supposed to travel to the homestead where I will be on Christmas day. Usually the buses still run on this day. But the train doesn't. So we had it all figured out he would take the 9am bus from Moncton, and get to my hometown around 1pm.
He has the gifts for my mother, and it is the very first Christmas we will be spending together. So I speak for myself when I say that I really hope that this strike does not happen.
I'm sure there are good reasons to have a strike. But I really hope the employees and the company can come to an agreement before stopping work.
Wish us luck over here, please :)
Saturday, 26 November 2011
Less than a Month!
Well folks, the countdown to Christmas is officially on for me!
Less than a month to go before this special day arrives :)
The last couple of years I'll admit I wasn't feeling too Christmas-y. It just seemed like the magic left me, and I found myself getting frustrated with myself for not getting into the spirit. Sure I downloaded all my Christmas music late November, and bought all my gifts for others in early December. But I felt like I was going through the motions, just to get them done.
Although, this year I find myself getting a little more excited. And that may be due to the fact that J is coming to my mom's place for Christmas! It will be our first Christmas we will actually get to spend together.
2 years ago we weren't technically dating by that point, so we spent Christmas apart.
Then last year I went to my Mom's place as usual, and he stayed at his sister's/
But this year is different. He will be coming to where I am on Christmas day. Spending a few days with my family, and then we will both travel to Moncton and spend New Years together.
I'm SO excited!
Are you looking forward to the Holidays this year?
Less than a month to go before this special day arrives :)
The last couple of years I'll admit I wasn't feeling too Christmas-y. It just seemed like the magic left me, and I found myself getting frustrated with myself for not getting into the spirit. Sure I downloaded all my Christmas music late November, and bought all my gifts for others in early December. But I felt like I was going through the motions, just to get them done.
Although, this year I find myself getting a little more excited. And that may be due to the fact that J is coming to my mom's place for Christmas! It will be our first Christmas we will actually get to spend together.
2 years ago we weren't technically dating by that point, so we spent Christmas apart.
Then last year I went to my Mom's place as usual, and he stayed at his sister's/
But this year is different. He will be coming to where I am on Christmas day. Spending a few days with my family, and then we will both travel to Moncton and spend New Years together.
I'm SO excited!
Are you looking forward to the Holidays this year?
Saturday, 19 November 2011
Something Rare
Last night I learned that two people from my graduating class in high school had a baby about a month ago.
These people aren't the first two to pop out babies since graduation, but they seem to be the first that actually got married first.
I'm not sure if anyone has noticed, but in my view it seems like marriage is now the 2nd thought, after having children?
Is it because the divorce rates are on the rise that people are afraid to get married first in case it doesn't work out?
Is the sanctity of marriage slowly becoming extinct?
I have a wonderful boyfriend right now, and someday I think we'll have children together. But I'd prefer we get married first. Does that make me old fashioned?
I know a wedding can be expensive. But so is having a child (since you do have to see them through for AT LEAST 18 years)
Marriage just seems rare to me now. Am I the only one who has noticed this?
These people aren't the first two to pop out babies since graduation, but they seem to be the first that actually got married first.
I'm not sure if anyone has noticed, but in my view it seems like marriage is now the 2nd thought, after having children?
Is it because the divorce rates are on the rise that people are afraid to get married first in case it doesn't work out?
Is the sanctity of marriage slowly becoming extinct?
I have a wonderful boyfriend right now, and someday I think we'll have children together. But I'd prefer we get married first. Does that make me old fashioned?
I know a wedding can be expensive. But so is having a child (since you do have to see them through for AT LEAST 18 years)
Marriage just seems rare to me now. Am I the only one who has noticed this?
Wednesday, 16 November 2011
Wow, you suck
And by "you" I actually mean my cell phone service company.
How do they expect their patrons to pay their bills on time if they don't even have the bills ready?
My cell phone bill is supposed to come out on the 10th. I get electronic bills so they don't have to send it by mail, it's just uploaded directly on their site.
It's now the 17th, and I don't see my bill anywhere!
The site hasn't updated it yet.
I want to get all my important bills paid for this month before I set out and do my Christmas shopping thank you very much!
How do they expect their patrons to pay their bills on time if they don't even have the bills ready?
My cell phone bill is supposed to come out on the 10th. I get electronic bills so they don't have to send it by mail, it's just uploaded directly on their site.
It's now the 17th, and I don't see my bill anywhere!
The site hasn't updated it yet.
I want to get all my important bills paid for this month before I set out and do my Christmas shopping thank you very much!
Tuesday, 4 October 2011
Challenging Ideologies
One of my favourite classes this semester is a Critical Theories class.
It's not what I expected it to be at all. The premise of the class takes place on open discussion and reading chapters from the textbook. The chapters can be a bit complicated but discussing them with group members helps me understand things better.
One of the topics we're learning about in this class is to Challenge Ideologies, which can be thoughts, beliefs, etc. that have been so embedded inside you, that you don't even realize they're there.
When we were learning about that today, I thought about my family life. It seems my Dad has an ideological view about education. He might not even know he has it. But it's there, and I notice it now.
He thinks formally educated people should be seen as superior as those that are not formally educated. An example of that would be J. Yes. My boyfriend.
My dad doesn't seem to think that our relationship will work out in the long run, because I'm working on my Masters and J doesn't have much post-secondary education as I do. But that doesn't mean he couldn't have it if he wanted to. J is an intelligent man, he doesn't need a piece of paper to prove that. Not to anyone, especially my dad. If my dad looked past the education part, he'd be able to get to know J better and not judge.
Maybe these sort of beliefs from my dad were passed on through his family, and he tried to pass it on to me. But it stops there. I won't listen to it, because I believe his view is a bit warped.
So maybe that means I'm challenging his ideology?
I'm okay with that.
It's not what I expected it to be at all. The premise of the class takes place on open discussion and reading chapters from the textbook. The chapters can be a bit complicated but discussing them with group members helps me understand things better.
One of the topics we're learning about in this class is to Challenge Ideologies, which can be thoughts, beliefs, etc. that have been so embedded inside you, that you don't even realize they're there.
When we were learning about that today, I thought about my family life. It seems my Dad has an ideological view about education. He might not even know he has it. But it's there, and I notice it now.
He thinks formally educated people should be seen as superior as those that are not formally educated. An example of that would be J. Yes. My boyfriend.
My dad doesn't seem to think that our relationship will work out in the long run, because I'm working on my Masters and J doesn't have much post-secondary education as I do. But that doesn't mean he couldn't have it if he wanted to. J is an intelligent man, he doesn't need a piece of paper to prove that. Not to anyone, especially my dad. If my dad looked past the education part, he'd be able to get to know J better and not judge.
Maybe these sort of beliefs from my dad were passed on through his family, and he tried to pass it on to me. But it stops there. I won't listen to it, because I believe his view is a bit warped.
So maybe that means I'm challenging his ideology?
I'm okay with that.
Tuesday, 27 September 2011
Busy Busy
The schoolwork is definitely starting to pile up. I'm trying to keep on top of it as best as I can.
Lots of reading to do, and now the papers begin.
But I enjoy the busyness of school. It helps to keep me in line. And be better with time management.
I'm even thinking of throwing in a part time job to the mix.
I think it's going to be a busy next few months :)
Lots of reading to do, and now the papers begin.
But I enjoy the busyness of school. It helps to keep me in line. And be better with time management.
I'm even thinking of throwing in a part time job to the mix.
I think it's going to be a busy next few months :)
Tuesday, 13 September 2011
E-reading
You know what's funny?
Back in November or December, J kept mentioning he wanted an e-reader. We both love to read, and he was going on about the benefits of having one, as opposed to books. He eventually bought himself one a couple weeks before Christmas because he couldn't be sure if somebody would buy it for him or not.
I ended up getting one for Christmas from my dad.
After arguing with J a couple times that books were better, I was faced with having an e-reader.
But I love it!! It's so convenient! I only realized this after I bought my first book for it. Quick, easy, poof, a book to read in just seconds. And sometimes those books are cheaper than they would be in a book store.
Just last night, I actually bought my stats book for my e-reader. I had my first stats class, and it's the only course where we have a book we have to get. The campus book store tends to rip people off when selling books. So the only other options was ordering it online and having to wait a few weeks to actually receive it.
Luckily I remembered my kobo, and found the e-book for it.
So yay, I saved myself some money and time with buying my textbook for my e-reader :D
Back in November or December, J kept mentioning he wanted an e-reader. We both love to read, and he was going on about the benefits of having one, as opposed to books. He eventually bought himself one a couple weeks before Christmas because he couldn't be sure if somebody would buy it for him or not.
I ended up getting one for Christmas from my dad.
After arguing with J a couple times that books were better, I was faced with having an e-reader.
But I love it!! It's so convenient! I only realized this after I bought my first book for it. Quick, easy, poof, a book to read in just seconds. And sometimes those books are cheaper than they would be in a book store.
Just last night, I actually bought my stats book for my e-reader. I had my first stats class, and it's the only course where we have a book we have to get. The campus book store tends to rip people off when selling books. So the only other options was ordering it online and having to wait a few weeks to actually receive it.
Luckily I remembered my kobo, and found the e-book for it.
So yay, I saved myself some money and time with buying my textbook for my e-reader :D
Wednesday, 7 September 2011
Refreshing
Ahh, you know what I like about this place?
There's not a lot of He Said, She Said drama going around. It's refreshing really.
On the other site J and I are a part of, there's been drama going on based on that. And everybody does seem to want the last word, so it'll keep on going.
I've been biting my tongue a lot lately with this because the last time I commented on someone's blog, my personality was called ugly, and I was called a fake. Which is the go-to insult for this individual when someone disagrees with him. I know I shouldn't take it personally, but I've learned my lesson.
Anyway enough about that.
I wanted to recap what happened yesterday.
It was a busy day yesterday. I woke up around 8am, showered, ate breakfast, and then set out. First I went to pay my tuition and get that over with. Kind of like ripping off the bandaid, I had to say goodbye to thousands of dollars from my bank account. And it hurt.
But it's for a good reason so can't complain about that.
I then went to get my student i.d. I'm now officially a graduate student since I completed those two tasks! It's all becoming real to me now. For a while everything felt surreal.
Later last night I attended a graduate student meet and greet held at the school. I had debated whether or not I'd go to it. I was nervous, but finally decided to go, since it was the only way I could meet new people before classes started. I had opted out of attending the Frosh Week activities since they're definitely more for first time university students. I already went through that 5 years ago when I went to Acadia. That first week then was enough for me. lol
But anyway, at this reception thing, a few faculty and administrative members talked about what is expected of grad students, then they let us socialize.
I was very proud of myself, since I saw a few people with a Master of Applied Human Nutrition sticker on their nametag, and went up to them to talk!
Usually I sit back and wait for someone to approach me.
But I wanted to meet new people so felt I had to change my methods.
I think it worked out for the best. I spent most of the evening chatting to a couple girls, some who were in my program, and some weren't. I possibly made a few new friends for this next journey of my life.
And that's also refreshing. :)
There's not a lot of He Said, She Said drama going around. It's refreshing really.
On the other site J and I are a part of, there's been drama going on based on that. And everybody does seem to want the last word, so it'll keep on going.
I've been biting my tongue a lot lately with this because the last time I commented on someone's blog, my personality was called ugly, and I was called a fake. Which is the go-to insult for this individual when someone disagrees with him. I know I shouldn't take it personally, but I've learned my lesson.
Anyway enough about that.
I wanted to recap what happened yesterday.
It was a busy day yesterday. I woke up around 8am, showered, ate breakfast, and then set out. First I went to pay my tuition and get that over with. Kind of like ripping off the bandaid, I had to say goodbye to thousands of dollars from my bank account. And it hurt.
But it's for a good reason so can't complain about that.
I then went to get my student i.d. I'm now officially a graduate student since I completed those two tasks! It's all becoming real to me now. For a while everything felt surreal.
Later last night I attended a graduate student meet and greet held at the school. I had debated whether or not I'd go to it. I was nervous, but finally decided to go, since it was the only way I could meet new people before classes started. I had opted out of attending the Frosh Week activities since they're definitely more for first time university students. I already went through that 5 years ago when I went to Acadia. That first week then was enough for me. lol
But anyway, at this reception thing, a few faculty and administrative members talked about what is expected of grad students, then they let us socialize.
I was very proud of myself, since I saw a few people with a Master of Applied Human Nutrition sticker on their nametag, and went up to them to talk!
Usually I sit back and wait for someone to approach me.
But I wanted to meet new people so felt I had to change my methods.
I think it worked out for the best. I spent most of the evening chatting to a couple girls, some who were in my program, and some weren't. I possibly made a few new friends for this next journey of my life.
And that's also refreshing. :)
Friday, 26 August 2011
Oh how I loathe thee...
As in I loathe student loans!!
With all my preparations for moving, and getting emotional over certain things, I came to realize that I haven't received a notice of assessment for my student loan yet.
EEK!
Classes begin in less than 2 weeks. It doesn't help that my province's student loan office has been sending all my mail to my mother's house either! Maybe they went for the safe route and decided to send stuff there since it's listed as my permanent address. But where I had my Moncton address listed as my current address on my application. So shouldn't stuff be sent here all along?
Guess not. My mom has had to play the middle man since I applied for student loans. And when stuff is sent there, she has to forward it here, costing an extra $0.59 each time for postage because everything needs my signature.
Somebody is definitely missing brain cells there. Here's an idea, send the mail to where I am! Plus there was that whole Canada Post strike back at the end of June that has slowed down mail. Even now we're still receiving stuff that has been dated in July.
Sorry for the rant, but I'm panicking. What happens when I move to Halifax and haven't heard back from student loans yet? I don't want to be kicked out of school before I even start for not being able to pay. I worked hard to get into this program, and I damn well better be able to attend classes and get my freaking degree!!
Puppy is encouraging me to call the office tomorrow and see what's going on. I might just do that. And hopefully no water works will be included in that phone call - but with the way things are going, it's not a guarantee.
Gosh I'm such a cry baby sometimes lol.
With all my preparations for moving, and getting emotional over certain things, I came to realize that I haven't received a notice of assessment for my student loan yet.
EEK!
Classes begin in less than 2 weeks. It doesn't help that my province's student loan office has been sending all my mail to my mother's house either! Maybe they went for the safe route and decided to send stuff there since it's listed as my permanent address. But where I had my Moncton address listed as my current address on my application. So shouldn't stuff be sent here all along?
Guess not. My mom has had to play the middle man since I applied for student loans. And when stuff is sent there, she has to forward it here, costing an extra $0.59 each time for postage because everything needs my signature.
Somebody is definitely missing brain cells there. Here's an idea, send the mail to where I am! Plus there was that whole Canada Post strike back at the end of June that has slowed down mail. Even now we're still receiving stuff that has been dated in July.
Sorry for the rant, but I'm panicking. What happens when I move to Halifax and haven't heard back from student loans yet? I don't want to be kicked out of school before I even start for not being able to pay. I worked hard to get into this program, and I damn well better be able to attend classes and get my freaking degree!!
Puppy is encouraging me to call the office tomorrow and see what's going on. I might just do that. And hopefully no water works will be included in that phone call - but with the way things are going, it's not a guarantee.
Gosh I'm such a cry baby sometimes lol.
Saying Goodbye
It's my last week in Moncton. For God knows how long.
Might be back in a couple years, or might stick in Nova Scotia. Who knows where my future career will take me.
So for the last couple of days I've been saying my goodbyes to various people I know around here.
Yesterday was my last day at work too. I was only there for about 8-9 weeks, but I was a great worker.
With an hour left of my last shift, the supervisors/managers of my department called a huddle. They said to everyone it was my last day since I was off to Grad school and presented a card to me wishing me luck.
I actually got a bit teary eyed!
I actually liked that job, and will definitely miss it there. There was definitely a big difference between there and where I worked previously. I felt like I was part of a team here. It was a great feeling.
Now I should arrange to see some more friends before I'm off on Tuesday. It's going to be an emotional weekend that's for sure.
Hope everyone stays safe with Hurricane Irene on the prowl! Have a great weekend :D
Might be back in a couple years, or might stick in Nova Scotia. Who knows where my future career will take me.
So for the last couple of days I've been saying my goodbyes to various people I know around here.
Yesterday was my last day at work too. I was only there for about 8-9 weeks, but I was a great worker.
With an hour left of my last shift, the supervisors/managers of my department called a huddle. They said to everyone it was my last day since I was off to Grad school and presented a card to me wishing me luck.
I actually got a bit teary eyed!
I actually liked that job, and will definitely miss it there. There was definitely a big difference between there and where I worked previously. I felt like I was part of a team here. It was a great feeling.
Now I should arrange to see some more friends before I'm off on Tuesday. It's going to be an emotional weekend that's for sure.
Hope everyone stays safe with Hurricane Irene on the prowl! Have a great weekend :D
Saturday, 20 August 2011
Setting in
Really? It's August 20th already?
I find it bizarre that the summer has already whizzed by for the most part. Now the end to my time in Moncton is fast approaching.
I'll be honest with you. I'm sort of freaking out about it. Everything is setting in.
Less than 2 weeks to go. And I'll be gone. Starting a new chapter of my life, and getting one step closer to my goal as a Public Health Nutritionist.
Without J there to support me in the flesh. Sure, I have all his support emotionally, but won't have him there with me physically. And that's getting hard to deal with.
I'm going to miss him like crazy.
Yeah sure we started out with something long distance, and it was rough then.
Now it's going to be harder after we spent over a year together.
*deep breath* I'll be okay.
I'm trying not to think about it right now. Maybe if I focus on packing and working my last few shifts, then it won't seem as bad.
Wish me luck
I find it bizarre that the summer has already whizzed by for the most part. Now the end to my time in Moncton is fast approaching.
I'll be honest with you. I'm sort of freaking out about it. Everything is setting in.
Less than 2 weeks to go. And I'll be gone. Starting a new chapter of my life, and getting one step closer to my goal as a Public Health Nutritionist.
Without J there to support me in the flesh. Sure, I have all his support emotionally, but won't have him there with me physically. And that's getting hard to deal with.
I'm going to miss him like crazy.
Yeah sure we started out with something long distance, and it was rough then.
Now it's going to be harder after we spent over a year together.
*deep breath* I'll be okay.
I'm trying not to think about it right now. Maybe if I focus on packing and working my last few shifts, then it won't seem as bad.
Wish me luck
Thursday, 11 August 2011
Two Weeks!
Wow, hard to believe, but I only have a little over 2 weeks left of work.
In about 3 weeks I'll be moving to my new home!
I'm actually pretty excited, but will definitely miss J.
But, at the same time I'll be in a place where I can live by MY rules, and with MY mess.
Nobody else's. And nobody else's ridiculous behaviours...
But not going to get into that.
Just know that I'm having mixed emotions about leaving.
In about 3 weeks I'll be moving to my new home!
I'm actually pretty excited, but will definitely miss J.
But, at the same time I'll be in a place where I can live by MY rules, and with MY mess.
Nobody else's. And nobody else's ridiculous behaviours...
But not going to get into that.
Just know that I'm having mixed emotions about leaving.
Thursday, 28 July 2011
Just make a commitment already!
No I'm surprisingly not talking about J with this post.
The last couple of days I've been making phone calls regarding potential apartments for the fall. I'm supposed to be moving to Halifax in a little over a month, but due to financial issues and then time constraints, I'm only able to get to Halifax to view apartments this Sunday. My mother (who's a real estate agent) will be coming with me, to judge whether the apartments are liveable or worth my money - since my first two apartments were basement apartments and were super damp most times.
Anyway, there's a few buildings I've been keeping my eye on online. I frequently check if they have availabilities. And have been emailing some of the property managers.
But I need to contact the Resident managers to book viewings.
So I did.
Twice I was told to call the day I'm actually in town to see if there's anything available.
Uh no. Aren't you supposed to give at least 24 hours notice for that kind of thing? What if these people aren't available that time when I call? What if there are current tenants and they are busy?
I'm kind of annoyed, but these two places are in my prime location. Within 5-10 minutes walking distance to my school. Good prices too.
All I want is to book a time to view the apartments on Sunday. Is that so hard to give?
The last couple of days I've been making phone calls regarding potential apartments for the fall. I'm supposed to be moving to Halifax in a little over a month, but due to financial issues and then time constraints, I'm only able to get to Halifax to view apartments this Sunday. My mother (who's a real estate agent) will be coming with me, to judge whether the apartments are liveable or worth my money - since my first two apartments were basement apartments and were super damp most times.
Anyway, there's a few buildings I've been keeping my eye on online. I frequently check if they have availabilities. And have been emailing some of the property managers.
But I need to contact the Resident managers to book viewings.
So I did.
Twice I was told to call the day I'm actually in town to see if there's anything available.
Uh no. Aren't you supposed to give at least 24 hours notice for that kind of thing? What if these people aren't available that time when I call? What if there are current tenants and they are busy?
I'm kind of annoyed, but these two places are in my prime location. Within 5-10 minutes walking distance to my school. Good prices too.
All I want is to book a time to view the apartments on Sunday. Is that so hard to give?
Monday, 25 July 2011
Two Faces
"You catch more flies with honey than vinegar"
I find this statement to be very true.
Especially when it comes to one of my roommates. She tends to have the reputation for being a bitch. And she is... then wonders why she's still single.
She's J's best friend though so I try to be polite. Just because any conflicts between us would leave him torn.
But I'm finding out that I'm not really a fan of hers.
And it feels like the feeling is mutual.
There was one instance where my mother was coming to visit for the weekend. It was Easter weekend and Mom wanted to bring a turkey to cook for an Easter dinner. But this roommate put up a fight with J that it's her kitchen and all this other bullshit. I wasn't impressed, but she got her way. And I think part of the reason we got a hotel room that night was because of this roommate.
She doesn't treat everyone like that though. Our other roommate is a male that she likes. About a week or so after my mother's visit, he wanted to make a turkey dinner. No arguments from anyone.
Now his parents are in town, and they're staying with us! In our little apartment that apparently didn't have room for just my mom.
It drives me nuts when people are two faced like that. Treat some people one way, and then others a different way.
But are there ways to bring this up without rocking the boat too much?
I'm torn because I want to finally crack and give this person a piece of my mind. I've been patient long enough but it's really starting to eat me up from the inside. I just don't want J to be caught in the crossfire. He's known this person for almost 15 years. And then there's me who he's in love with.
Ahh such a dilemma...
I find this statement to be very true.
Especially when it comes to one of my roommates. She tends to have the reputation for being a bitch. And she is... then wonders why she's still single.
She's J's best friend though so I try to be polite. Just because any conflicts between us would leave him torn.
But I'm finding out that I'm not really a fan of hers.
And it feels like the feeling is mutual.
There was one instance where my mother was coming to visit for the weekend. It was Easter weekend and Mom wanted to bring a turkey to cook for an Easter dinner. But this roommate put up a fight with J that it's her kitchen and all this other bullshit. I wasn't impressed, but she got her way. And I think part of the reason we got a hotel room that night was because of this roommate.
She doesn't treat everyone like that though. Our other roommate is a male that she likes. About a week or so after my mother's visit, he wanted to make a turkey dinner. No arguments from anyone.
Now his parents are in town, and they're staying with us! In our little apartment that apparently didn't have room for just my mom.
It drives me nuts when people are two faced like that. Treat some people one way, and then others a different way.
But are there ways to bring this up without rocking the boat too much?
I'm torn because I want to finally crack and give this person a piece of my mind. I've been patient long enough but it's really starting to eat me up from the inside. I just don't want J to be caught in the crossfire. He's known this person for almost 15 years. And then there's me who he's in love with.
Ahh such a dilemma...
Sunday, 17 July 2011
Defensive
Note: I've reposted this from my other blog because I got tired of waiting for it to show up there lol
| Today J and I were in the grocery store, when a guy with two girls walked by us. We overheard the guy say to one of the girls something about whining. I don't remember exactly. But then as we turned the corner, I said to J "I think it's funny when guys complain about a woman whining when he started it". He ended up giving me a "Are you on crack?" look. Well no. I do think it's funny. In fact, earlier today, when we were walking towards the mall, he randomly made a comment that actually hurt my feelings. He mentioned something about me being messy. So I jumped to the defensive side to stand up for myself. See, I do know I can be messy at times. I do get lazy and at the end of the day my clothes end up on our bedroom floor. But so do J's. Actually more of J's clothes end up on the floor, but that's a minor detail. My family has actually picked fun at me for this before, and it's a sensitive topic. But a couple days later I'll sweep the entire room and throw whatever's on the floor into the hamper and then do laundry. Mine and J's. I'll even be trying to sweep the floor around him while he's on his computer playing games. So yes, I am messy, but I do clean up after myself. Maybe not to his best friend's standards, but I do, and frequently. So I was acting a little bitchy after his comment. My feelings were hurt. And then he complains I'm being defensive and giving attitude! Well yeah, how else am I supposed to react? Am I just going to smile and take the insult and not do anything? I think not! Unbelievable how men can be sometimes. So yes, he started it, and I whined about it. So it was funny when we overheard that guy at the grocery store. Is it really that surprising when a woman decides to defend herself and get defensive? | |
Friday, 15 July 2011
Catching Up
Frig! Since I started working blogging has taken a backseat in my life.
And I'm okay with that.
Although there are some posts that I'll start writing, get bored and then delete it. C'est la vie I guess.
I suppose I should fill you in on the goings on.
Well I actually like this new job.
I just make sandwiches/wraps/subs all day for the deli department of a very popular Atlantic Canada Grocery Chain. It's considerably less stressful than working at the old popular Canadian coffee shop though.
And time flies so easily at this job.
I'll start my shift at a certain time, focus on what needs to be done, and then when I actually get a chance to look at the clock, half my shift has already passed! It's amazing.
Plus the people I work with are so nice. Even those in different departments. It definitely has more of a welcoming feel to it than my previous job.
And it's keeping me busy.
I'm still training though, tomorrow's my last training shift. So they've been scheduling me with someone who has done this job for over 25 years, and that means that I'm scheduled to work at 5am most days right now. So I'm a wee bit tired.
And that's why I'm not much into writing right now. I'd rather just passively read and relax after a long day. And of course spend some quality time with J.
Which I should mention, his birthday was this past Sunday. I was in the middle of a financial crisis at the moment and had to hold onto every penny I had to my name. I haven't been able to get him a gift yet.
But now that I've actually been paid, the problem is now what to get a guy like him?!
He loves video games, but usually buys everything for himself.
I have no idea what men even like to receive for their birthday!
Although on his actual birthday I was able to bring a cake home from work. Hmmm need ideas here for a belated birthday gift...
And I'm okay with that.
Although there are some posts that I'll start writing, get bored and then delete it. C'est la vie I guess.
I suppose I should fill you in on the goings on.
Well I actually like this new job.
I just make sandwiches/wraps/subs all day for the deli department of a very popular Atlantic Canada Grocery Chain. It's considerably less stressful than working at the old popular Canadian coffee shop though.
And time flies so easily at this job.
I'll start my shift at a certain time, focus on what needs to be done, and then when I actually get a chance to look at the clock, half my shift has already passed! It's amazing.
Plus the people I work with are so nice. Even those in different departments. It definitely has more of a welcoming feel to it than my previous job.
And it's keeping me busy.
I'm still training though, tomorrow's my last training shift. So they've been scheduling me with someone who has done this job for over 25 years, and that means that I'm scheduled to work at 5am most days right now. So I'm a wee bit tired.
And that's why I'm not much into writing right now. I'd rather just passively read and relax after a long day. And of course spend some quality time with J.
Which I should mention, his birthday was this past Sunday. I was in the middle of a financial crisis at the moment and had to hold onto every penny I had to my name. I haven't been able to get him a gift yet.
But now that I've actually been paid, the problem is now what to get a guy like him?!
He loves video games, but usually buys everything for himself.
I have no idea what men even like to receive for their birthday!
Although on his actual birthday I was able to bring a cake home from work. Hmmm need ideas here for a belated birthday gift...
Friday, 1 July 2011
Happy Canada Day!!
Happy Canada Day!!!
Today marks the 144th birthday of the wonderful country of Canada, which is where I live.
I was born and raised here, and will probably live in Canada the rest of my life.
It holds amazing beauty, and wonderful people.
Someday I would like to travel to the other side of the country, since I've only seen the East Coast (except NFLD - which is on my list of places to visit)
Happy Canada Day to all the Canadians out there, whether they live in Canada now, or have moved elsewhere!! You can take the person out of Canada, but can't take the Canada out of the person ;)
And to my American counterparts, hope you have a wonderful July 4th Weekend as well!
Wednesday, 29 June 2011
So You Think You Can Dance
When I was about three years old, my parents put me into a beginner`s creative dance class. There were a lot of children my age there, so it was fun.
Then when I was 7 or 8 I started doing ballet. I enjoyed it, but I wasn`t overly flexible. And the teacher was sort of a witch, even with us young`ns. I remember wearing a digital watch to class one day, and it was a hard class, so I ended up looking at my watch to see what time it was.
She noticed me looking at my watch and came over and removed the watch from my wrist. I wasn`t too impressed. So after that dance season ended, I never rejoined. Because that teacher taught all levels of ballet.
Looking back, I wonder how good of a dancer I would have become if I stuck with it. Of course if I stuck with dancing I wouldn`t have been able to join in swimming, which became my sport. I was good at it, and I loved every minute of swimming. Even the hard practices.
The coaches were wonderful too. Even if you couldn`t get it right away, they treated the swimmers with encouragement and respect. Which is what my dance instructor lacked.
But anyway, I now live vicariously through the show So You Think You Can Dance. And now with the Canadian and US versions running at the same time, I can watch 4 nights a week!!!
Although the jury is still out on whether I`ll actually stick to the Canadian one. I`m not a fan of the host. She tries too hard to be funny, and that annoys me. But I am Canadian and do want to see if I'll recognize anybody if they're from the East Coast. So maybe I'll keep watching.
I'm also tempted to pick up some dance classes soon. And even got J interested too! We're considering taking ballroom classes.
We'll definitely need to at least learn the waltz, because at our wedding - whenever that may be (is it bad I'm so confident we'll get married and he hasn't even proposed yet??) - I want to do a nice waltz for the first dance.
Can you dance?
Then when I was 7 or 8 I started doing ballet. I enjoyed it, but I wasn`t overly flexible. And the teacher was sort of a witch, even with us young`ns. I remember wearing a digital watch to class one day, and it was a hard class, so I ended up looking at my watch to see what time it was.
She noticed me looking at my watch and came over and removed the watch from my wrist. I wasn`t too impressed. So after that dance season ended, I never rejoined. Because that teacher taught all levels of ballet.
Looking back, I wonder how good of a dancer I would have become if I stuck with it. Of course if I stuck with dancing I wouldn`t have been able to join in swimming, which became my sport. I was good at it, and I loved every minute of swimming. Even the hard practices.
The coaches were wonderful too. Even if you couldn`t get it right away, they treated the swimmers with encouragement and respect. Which is what my dance instructor lacked.
But anyway, I now live vicariously through the show So You Think You Can Dance. And now with the Canadian and US versions running at the same time, I can watch 4 nights a week!!!
Although the jury is still out on whether I`ll actually stick to the Canadian one. I`m not a fan of the host. She tries too hard to be funny, and that annoys me. But I am Canadian and do want to see if I'll recognize anybody if they're from the East Coast. So maybe I'll keep watching.
I'm also tempted to pick up some dance classes soon. And even got J interested too! We're considering taking ballroom classes.
We'll definitely need to at least learn the waltz, because at our wedding - whenever that may be (is it bad I'm so confident we'll get married and he hasn't even proposed yet??) - I want to do a nice waltz for the first dance.
Can you dance?
Tuesday, 28 June 2011
Got it!
So I know this is like a week late... but I got the job!!
After my little phone fiasco, they finally called back and asked me for an interview.
I arranged to go there for 3:30, and was able to joke around with the ladies in the interview regarding the phone (this was near the end of the interview) but I felt good and comfortable about it.
No less than an hour later I received another call from them offering me the position!!
Now I can stop being mopey about money and trying to apply to every job in the city limits. Yay for me!
Orientation begins tomorrow and I have to say I'm excited!
After my little phone fiasco, they finally called back and asked me for an interview.
I arranged to go there for 3:30, and was able to joke around with the ladies in the interview regarding the phone (this was near the end of the interview) but I felt good and comfortable about it.
No less than an hour later I received another call from them offering me the position!!
Now I can stop being mopey about money and trying to apply to every job in the city limits. Yay for me!
Orientation begins tomorrow and I have to say I'm excited!
Wednesday, 22 June 2011
Well that was frustrating
Today I was woken up by the sound of my phone ringing, moments after J's alarm went off.
I wasn't wearing my glasses at the time since I was still asleep, so I ignored the call, thinking it was another number from Ontario trying to call me for whatever reason.
Anyway, moments after my cell phone stopped ringing, the house phone rang, with the same number. Although this time we could see that it was from Sobeys.
So I answered it.
Right after the woman on the phone asked if she could speak to me, and I said speaking... that handset decided at that moment to go dead! So I didn't get a name or anything from her before then.
I tried calling the number back, but they can't figure out who was trying to call.
Hopefully that woman doesn't think I intentionally hung up on her, and that they still want to offer me an interview for a job.
Cross your fingers for me!!
Haha. It seems like only this type of stuff would happen to me. It's sort of funny to think about.
Hmm maybe I should write a book :P
I wasn't wearing my glasses at the time since I was still asleep, so I ignored the call, thinking it was another number from Ontario trying to call me for whatever reason.
Anyway, moments after my cell phone stopped ringing, the house phone rang, with the same number. Although this time we could see that it was from Sobeys.
So I answered it.
Right after the woman on the phone asked if she could speak to me, and I said speaking... that handset decided at that moment to go dead! So I didn't get a name or anything from her before then.
I tried calling the number back, but they can't figure out who was trying to call.
Hopefully that woman doesn't think I intentionally hung up on her, and that they still want to offer me an interview for a job.
Cross your fingers for me!!
Haha. It seems like only this type of stuff would happen to me. It's sort of funny to think about.
Hmm maybe I should write a book :P
Wednesday, 15 June 2011
Job Searching
I had a pretty privileged childhood. My father is a doctor, so he was able to support the whole family.
I wasn't spoiled rotten, I did get a lot through my childhood, but my parents also taught us the value of the dollar.
My dad even supported my studies through and entire undergraduate degree. I was able to leave university debt free.
But since I'm a young adult, it's time for my independence.
Except I'm not doing so well.
I used to work at one of the Tim Hortons locations in the area. I had been working on and off at Tim's for the last 7 years - moving to 3 different locations in that time. Anyway this last location I worked, was hell! I was super stressed every day. See, they made me evening Supervisor around my 3rd month there. I was experienced, and knew the rules. At the time I was only supposed to be a Junior Supervisor, meaning I'd supervise maybe twice a week when our Head Night Supervisor wasn't working.
But about a month into that, they decided to fire the guy, making me the lead evening supervisor. I trained someone else to be a supervisor alongside me, and we became friends out of the whole thing.
But the job itself was burning both of us out. I lost count how many times I'd cry before work because I was dreading it so much. Never knew what each shift would entail. Between my coworker and I, we pulled close to 20 double shifts last minute within a 3 month period (although she pulled more than I did). I also lost count how many times I went home stressed, angry and ready to spill tears at the drop of a hat.
So I decided to look elsewhere. I thought I found a new job almost right away. The manager actually asked me if I could start on a certain date. So I thought I had the job. He was supposed to call me the following week to show me around the place. That day came and went with no call. So I called him the day after. He then told me that certain circumstances changed and I probably wouldn't be starting as early as he said. He had to get himself organized to hire more people, and promised to call me the following week.
That day also came and went with no call.
So I called him the next day again. No answer this time. So I left a couple messages.
They weren't returned.
So basically I was screwed over. I had already put my two weeks notice in at Tim's, and wasn't going to change my mind about that. My body couldn't take it anymore.
So here I am job searching again.
I'm trying to be as independent as possible, but it's hard. And I don't have my dad to fall back on this time. I'm an adult. I should be able to take care of myself financially.
I'm trying to make what I have stretch out to last me until I get a job again. But do you know that basically everything costs money now?
It's ridiculous!
Anyway, that's my little spiel for today. I needed to vent a little because if I don't I'd still end up crying.
Tuesday, 14 June 2011
Never Gone
So my grandmother passed away about 2 and a half months ago.It wasn't really unexpected, but I still feel that great loss even now.
See, she was only 72, and to me that's still young. She had a heart of gold, and I miss her every day.
I always felt that through everything, she kept my best interests at heart. She was there for a lot of my life. And always shared stories with me.
We were alike in a way. We got upset when there was yelling around. We wrote our feelings down because that's how we could communicate best. Through writing.
I wanted to share this picture. It's of me and my grandmother when I was just a little baby. It shows her caring side, and a time when she was healthier.
I just want to say that to me, she'll be "Never Gone". As in, always in my heart until we meet again down the road.
If you ever get a chance, listen to the song "Never Gone" by the Backstreet Boys. The lyrics of this song describe my grandmother to a tee. I think of her every time when I listen to it. Which is probably why I end up with a tear stained face by the end of the song.
Miss you and love you Granmom!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)