I need to say "thank you" to someone really special today. Her name is Maggie and she blogs over at Finding Myself.
Maggie was one of my first "followers" and she has been a true-blue blogging friend. I absolutely love her blog and all that she shares over there--I never miss a post. And, I appreciate all of the nice comments she gives to me here at What's Mine Is Yours.
On Tuesday, I shared the issues that I am having with eating, and my fears about getting unhealthy. Maggie responded with a supportive comment that got us going back and forth sending each other emails about our days, our exercise, and what we are eating.
We both know people in addiction recovery groups, and we like the idea of having an accountability partner, so that is what we're being for each other. And you know what? It's working. I've tried this before with people close to me, but it hasn't worked. But, it is working with Maggie. Maybe it's that I don't know her in person or that she is new in my life and I want to keep her impressed. At the same time, I don't feel afraid that she would look down on me if I had a bad day.
I know it's only been a few days, but what we are doing is working for me, and it sounds like it is helping Maggie too. I really hope it is.
So, thanks Maggie! I hope we share many, many more emails and can support each other for a long time to come!
Showing posts with label friendship. Show all posts
Showing posts with label friendship. Show all posts
Friday, May 18, 2012
Sunday, March 18, 2012
30+26=Best Year Ever
Today, James and I turned 30 and 26. Happy birthday to us:) Last night we celebrated with friends and family by hosting an E.T.-themed party, because E.T. turned 30 this year too! And that's the party my boy asked for, so that's what he got! I'll let some pictures and captions tell the tale...
A "Happy Birthday" banner with E.T. movie still pictures
Only the most well-known scene of the movie...in cake form! Made by yours truly.
What do you notice about these cake pops? They are the color of Reese's Pieces--E.T.'s favorite candy! Thank you to my sister, Kaitlin for making this deliciousness:)
We are blessed that so many of our out of town friends came to celebrate with us. My oldest friend, Becky and her boyfriend Brandon
My sister, Kaitlin and her boyfriend, Rob
The life of the party--Alexa darling!
Birthday girl and birthday boy
James and his cake...Hilda (James' grandma and master cake-maker) will be so proud!
Murd, showing off a prize from the "Present Game" (more on that in another post)
Brandon's prize, an Alien Egg--very E.T.-esque
James won TWICE! I guess it was his lucky day
Beautiful sissy and me after a successful party!
Cuddles was wiped out from a night of partying, but she got her snuggle on with Kait before she had to go home.
A big THANK YOU to all of our friends and family who made our birthday weekend so special!!! We are loved beyond belief and we are so blessed to have friends who make the time to celebrate with us.
Today we took a good walk (although I don't think I walked off the 5 cake pops I ate today), and then I took a much-needed nap. James watched some of his new movies this afternoon, and we ended the day with dinner at a local steak house with complimentary dessert (like I needed it!) because the waitress thought it was so cool that we share a birthday! We think it's pretty cool, too :)
Oh, and this post is also serving as my Sunday Thanks--I'm sure you can figure out everything I am feeling thankful for today!
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Glee
I have watched Glee from season one but, admittedly, there have been many times when I really don't like it. In the past I've felt that it has pushed the boundaries and stepped over the line in a variety of ways. It often is over the top and sometimes inappropriate.
But, the writers hit the nail on the head with the way they addressed some of the issues surrounding homosexuality in high school. If you're not familiar with the show, there is one character, Kurt, who has been "out" since the beginning, though he struggled immensely with it--coming out to his father, bullying, and trying to find other gay boys his age to whom he could relate and maybe even date. Then, a female character came out. And not only did she come out, but she broke the stereotypical lesbian mold. As someone who was called gay in high school because I had short hair in middle school and high school (yes, that actually happened), I am familiar with the stereotype. But Santana is voluptuous, gorgeous and very feminine (and she had a reputation among the boys, if you know what I mean).
Last season a football player, who had bullied Kurt relentlessly, also came out. Again, he broke the stereotype. Well, the most recent episode (or at least the most recent for me on Hulu) focused on David and his being "found out" at his new school. His teammates wrote "fag" on his locker and students were bullying him on Facebook and at school. So David went home and attempted to kill himself. Thankfully, he did not succeed. We later come to find out that David's parents also were not supportive of him as he came out to them.
The show presented the story line truthfully and appropriately--I was really impressed. As much as there have been parts of the show that have irked me, this episode made me appreciate the success it has in relating to our teens. And setting raw emotions to music makes it that much more powerful.
The reality is that teens are bullied every day for their sexuality. We know that to be true, but I don't think we really get it. We, as adults, need to set an example for our children and we need to take name-calling and teasing seriously, because they very quickly become bullying. The sad thing is that bullying is not just present in middle school and high school. It becomes more inconspicuous and dangerous in college, and by the time of adulthood, it is engrained. We also see bullying everywhere, without even knowing it. Talk shows, tabloids, stand-up comedy, politicians...we are eating, sleeping and breathing it, folks.
I don't care who you are or what you believe, where you came from or who you know. There is NEVER an excuse to put someone else down. There is NEVER an excuse to tell someone that who they are isn't good enough. There is NEVER an excuse to judge someone on a scale of your own creation. I don't know where you stand on homosexuality, and I'm not telling you that you have to agree with it. But when it comes to our children who are sweet and vulnerable and looking to us for guidance, we need to protect them, love them, and make sure they always know that they are not alone. That's the only way that we can truly mean it when we tell them that It Gets Better.
But, the writers hit the nail on the head with the way they addressed some of the issues surrounding homosexuality in high school. If you're not familiar with the show, there is one character, Kurt, who has been "out" since the beginning, though he struggled immensely with it--coming out to his father, bullying, and trying to find other gay boys his age to whom he could relate and maybe even date. Then, a female character came out. And not only did she come out, but she broke the stereotypical lesbian mold. As someone who was called gay in high school because I had short hair in middle school and high school (yes, that actually happened), I am familiar with the stereotype. But Santana is voluptuous, gorgeous and very feminine (and she had a reputation among the boys, if you know what I mean).
Last season a football player, who had bullied Kurt relentlessly, also came out. Again, he broke the stereotype. Well, the most recent episode (or at least the most recent for me on Hulu) focused on David and his being "found out" at his new school. His teammates wrote "fag" on his locker and students were bullying him on Facebook and at school. So David went home and attempted to kill himself. Thankfully, he did not succeed. We later come to find out that David's parents also were not supportive of him as he came out to them.
The show presented the story line truthfully and appropriately--I was really impressed. As much as there have been parts of the show that have irked me, this episode made me appreciate the success it has in relating to our teens. And setting raw emotions to music makes it that much more powerful.
The reality is that teens are bullied every day for their sexuality. We know that to be true, but I don't think we really get it. We, as adults, need to set an example for our children and we need to take name-calling and teasing seriously, because they very quickly become bullying. The sad thing is that bullying is not just present in middle school and high school. It becomes more inconspicuous and dangerous in college, and by the time of adulthood, it is engrained. We also see bullying everywhere, without even knowing it. Talk shows, tabloids, stand-up comedy, politicians...we are eating, sleeping and breathing it, folks.
I don't care who you are or what you believe, where you came from or who you know. There is NEVER an excuse to put someone else down. There is NEVER an excuse to tell someone that who they are isn't good enough. There is NEVER an excuse to judge someone on a scale of your own creation. I don't know where you stand on homosexuality, and I'm not telling you that you have to agree with it. But when it comes to our children who are sweet and vulnerable and looking to us for guidance, we need to protect them, love them, and make sure they always know that they are not alone. That's the only way that we can truly mean it when we tell them that It Gets Better.
Saturday, January 21, 2012
I can't ignore it
I have been wanting to post all week, but there was something keeping me from writing up the fun blogs I had planned.
I questioned whether I should even write about it, but I can't ignore it. It's not my story to tell, so I won't go any further than to tell you what's been going on this week.
One of my very close friends lost his dad to suicide. It's hard to swallow and I haven't really known what to do with it. So, I'm just putting it out there because it wouldn't feel right going on with my life and my blog without paying it some sort of attention.
We are heading to his hometown tonight for the funeral tomorrow. Please keep him and his family in your prayers.
I questioned whether I should even write about it, but I can't ignore it. It's not my story to tell, so I won't go any further than to tell you what's been going on this week.
One of my very close friends lost his dad to suicide. It's hard to swallow and I haven't really known what to do with it. So, I'm just putting it out there because it wouldn't feel right going on with my life and my blog without paying it some sort of attention.
We are heading to his hometown tonight for the funeral tomorrow. Please keep him and his family in your prayers.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
The Entertainment Book
I have to brag about something. It's sort of silly. But it's also sort of awesome. I went on a $10 date with one of my friends on Monday night. Do you want to know how?
I am pretty psyched about all of the ways that I can save using the coupons in this book. The other night, we had burritos for dinner at a burrito joint downtown, and then each had an ice cream cone at Ben and Jerry's. And we each spent only $10!
Honestly, it doesn't get much better than that, especially when you're on a super tight budget, like me! But, even if you're not on a tight budget, you can save some serious bucks while trying out new placing and enjoying old favorites. James and I use the movie ticket coupons--we save $4 on two adult tickets! There are coupons for retail stores, services (like car wash, mechanics, dry cleaning), museums, entertainment...the list goes on!
I don't usually go on and on about this sort of thing, but this bad boy has already paid for itself and them some! And it's only January! I can't leave you without also mentioning the following. These books are often sold as a fundraiser--I bought mine from our local AIDS Foundation. So, not only am I saving money now, but my initial investment went to a worthy cause. And I believe even if you buy the book online from their website, you can donate some of the proceeds toward a local cause--don't quote me on that, but look into it if you decide to buy!
I am pretty psyched about all of the ways that I can save using the coupons in this book. The other night, we had burritos for dinner at a burrito joint downtown, and then each had an ice cream cone at Ben and Jerry's. And we each spent only $10!
I don't usually go on and on about this sort of thing, but this bad boy has already paid for itself and them some! And it's only January! I can't leave you without also mentioning the following. These books are often sold as a fundraiser--I bought mine from our local AIDS Foundation. So, not only am I saving money now, but my initial investment went to a worthy cause. And I believe even if you buy the book online from their website, you can donate some of the proceeds toward a local cause--don't quote me on that, but look into it if you decide to buy!
Pretty excited about ice cream, Ben and Jerry's cows, and all our savings!!!
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Halloween in a Box
I got an awesome surprise in the mail today from my surrogate god-mother, Confirmation sponsor, numero uno neighbor, and dear friend Patti today:) I've been complaining about how stressful school has been lately, so she sent me a feel-good package of Halloween goodies.
The card was my favorite part...
...until I painted all 20 of my nails orange and had a little fun with the black nail polish pen on my tootsies (click on the image for a closer look)...
Patti, you don't know how much it means to me for you to think of me during this crazy time and put together this great treat for me--it is appreciated more than you can imagine!
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
And we're off!
To Fire Island, that is! James and I will be joining the rest of my family at our family home on Fire Island for the rest of the week (or until the hurricane kicks us off). So, needless to say, you will not see me here again until Sunday when we return. Because who needs a computer screen when you've got sunscreen? And ocean. And sand. And brothers. And sisters. And porches. And bikes. And lighthouses. And...get it?
In the meantime, however, you have a few jobs to do:
1. Check out my guest post at Atlantic Atlantis. Sarah is also on vacation and asked me to be a contributor. Note to self: do this next time I go away!
2. Spend some time enjoying my friend Kelli's new blog. Not only is she a great and entertaining writer, she actually has a practical blog full of awesome looking recipes. Kelli and I have been friends since high school and she's one of my bests, so if you don't visit her I'll kick your butt!
3. Consider supporting Ashley at The Shine Project. She is doing a lot of really great things in her neighborhood and city, and she has ways that you can help! I just bought two shine necklaces from her (one for me and one for my sister) whose proceeds go toward scholarships for her high school students.
4. Get off the computer and go outside! This is the best time of year (in my opinion), and you should enjoy the crisp air, breezes and wonderful sunshine.
In the meantime, however, you have a few jobs to do:
1. Check out my guest post at Atlantic Atlantis. Sarah is also on vacation and asked me to be a contributor. Note to self: do this next time I go away!
2. Spend some time enjoying my friend Kelli's new blog. Not only is she a great and entertaining writer, she actually has a practical blog full of awesome looking recipes. Kelli and I have been friends since high school and she's one of my bests, so if you don't visit her I'll kick your butt!
3. Consider supporting Ashley at The Shine Project. She is doing a lot of really great things in her neighborhood and city, and she has ways that you can help! I just bought two shine necklaces from her (one for me and one for my sister) whose proceeds go toward scholarships for her high school students.
4. Get off the computer and go outside! This is the best time of year (in my opinion), and you should enjoy the crisp air, breezes and wonderful sunshine.
Adios, amigos!
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Little Friend's Wedding
Yesterday I had the pleasure of watching my "little friend" Ashley marry the wonderful Joseph! Ashley and I met our freshman year of college at Saint Rose and we've been buddies ever since.
Joseph and Ashley had a personal and intimate ceremony that was utterly and perfectly "them"--I don't think anyone who was there would disagree.
Their moms set the alter for communion, which was just beautiful and, again, added to the intimacy of the day. It was all about Joe, Ashley and their families.
I loved seeing their parent's pray the Lord's Prayer together, and I couldn't help but snap a picture.
Their church is very inviting--I loved the altar and the way Christ was personified here.
Everyone worked together to put out the delicious meal. Fr. Shaw even cut the sandwich!
I love these two, and I am so blessed to call them friends!
Ashley, you mean the world to me and I thank you for including me in your special day! (p.s. Now do you see why I lovingly call Ashley my "little friend"?)
The bride's bouquet.
And gift table, where everyone left their love on a frame from Ashley's parents.
It was a beautiful day. I don't think Ashley and Joe could have asked for anything better, and I wish them so much joy and LAUGHTER in their life together!!!
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Memorial Day Weekend
We had such a great Memorial Day weekend! The weather was beautiful, albeit a little hot for my liking, and we made the best of it by spending a lot of time outside and with friends.
Our BFFs, Tabitha and Don, bought a house at the beginning of the month and had a BBQ on Saturday afternoon. They have a great backyard and they are such good hosts--we love spending time at their new place. Here are some of my favorite pics from their BBQ...
Our BFFs, Tabitha and Don, bought a house at the beginning of the month and had a BBQ on Saturday afternoon. They have a great backyard and they are such good hosts--we love spending time at their new place. Here are some of my favorite pics from their BBQ...
Grill-Master Don
James, enjoying an amazing rice krispy treat
Watermelon vodka, literally...yum!
I think this is the one picture of us from the day...I guess it'll do!
James and Tab--best friends!
The Girls:)
The Boys
Tab's re-purposed jars lined the deck--so pretty and festive!
On Sunday, James helped Don fix Tabitha's car. Here he is working hard:
Sunday evening James and I went to the Jericho Drive-In to see Pirates of the Caribbean. It was the perfect night and we pigged out on ice cream and popcorn!
Monday was sort of a lazy day, which we needed. It was so hot, all I wanted to do was lounge around all day, but James made me get up and be productive, which I am thankful for. I love fabulous long weekends!!
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Realtionships
First off, I'm in the library where I am supposed to be writing a paper, but I'm taking a break to do some writing that I enjoy a little more than outlining strategic plans. At any rate, last week I finished reading The Soloist by Steve Lopez. It is a book that I have read before, but I decided to read again for a book report for my Human Behavior class. If you haven't read the book, I strongly recommend it. It is the story of a man named Nathaniel Anthony Ayers, an incredible musician who struggles with schizophrenia and homelessness. Nathaniel is befriended by Steve Lopez, a columnist for the LA Times, and through this relationship Nathaniel is able to slowly improve his situation.
As I was writing my book report, which was really just a reflection on how the book can help our work with individuals with mental illness, I kept coming back to the relationship between Steve and Nathaniel. It was because of their relationship that things actually started changing in Nathaniel's life. Steve was able to advocate and find resources for Nathaniel that he was not able to access on his own. But, the relationship also began to heal Nathaniel on its own. One of my professors always talks about how "the relationship heals" and he is exactly right. Simply the presence of another human being can be just as healing as any medication and, in my opinion, is often more powerful and lasting.
When I wrote my last post, it got me thinking about the relationships in my life. Most of my Sunday Thanks posts have had to do with the people in my life. I'm not writing each Sunday about the things that I am thankful for (although I certainly have material goods that I am grateful for), and the fact is that it would take me a lot longer to think of a thing to write about than it would be a person or an experience that I share with others.
I've had to live pretty simply this year, as I am not really making much money each week, and the money that I have saved is for living expenses for the next year and a half. But, I've had a lot of great moments with people that I love and care about, and without the "stuff" around me to cloud it up, I have seen more clearly this year the importance of the relationships in my life that sustain me.
The people in my life "heal" me every day. The classmate sitting next to me reassures me that I'm doing a good job. My mom comforts me when I feel stressed. My boyfriend finds me when I'm lost in a sea of overwhelming thoughts and ideas. My professor encourages me when I feel like I will never understand the material. My siblings make me laugh on a long weekend after a week of hard work that made me want to cry. I am healed and I am whole because of the relationships that fill me up.
As I was writing my book report, which was really just a reflection on how the book can help our work with individuals with mental illness, I kept coming back to the relationship between Steve and Nathaniel. It was because of their relationship that things actually started changing in Nathaniel's life. Steve was able to advocate and find resources for Nathaniel that he was not able to access on his own. But, the relationship also began to heal Nathaniel on its own. One of my professors always talks about how "the relationship heals" and he is exactly right. Simply the presence of another human being can be just as healing as any medication and, in my opinion, is often more powerful and lasting.
When I wrote my last post, it got me thinking about the relationships in my life. Most of my Sunday Thanks posts have had to do with the people in my life. I'm not writing each Sunday about the things that I am thankful for (although I certainly have material goods that I am grateful for), and the fact is that it would take me a lot longer to think of a thing to write about than it would be a person or an experience that I share with others.
I've had to live pretty simply this year, as I am not really making much money each week, and the money that I have saved is for living expenses for the next year and a half. But, I've had a lot of great moments with people that I love and care about, and without the "stuff" around me to cloud it up, I have seen more clearly this year the importance of the relationships in my life that sustain me.
The people in my life "heal" me every day. The classmate sitting next to me reassures me that I'm doing a good job. My mom comforts me when I feel stressed. My boyfriend finds me when I'm lost in a sea of overwhelming thoughts and ideas. My professor encourages me when I feel like I will never understand the material. My siblings make me laugh on a long weekend after a week of hard work that made me want to cry. I am healed and I am whole because of the relationships that fill me up.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
"Sunday Thanks": Girls Night
I love spending time with some good women in my life, sharing laughs, acting dumb (I'm really good at that), and even getting a little crafty! Last night we broke out the jewelry supplies and combined resources to come up with some really great designs. So this morning, after less sleep than I require, I am thankful for girls night because eight hours of sleep can't rejuvenate you like an evening spent with girlfriends.
I have to show off our creations, of course!
Tabitha made this necklace using a vintage earring as the center pendant and a really pretty combination of beads strung onto wire.
Tabitha models her second necklace--we liked that it was simple, but funky.
Michele models a set she made using these wooden circle pendants--we both love the combination of brown and blue!
Michele made this necklace as a gift for her mom's birthday--nice combination of colors with a little pop at the clasp.
This pearl and blue glass beads combination was made by me--two strands that I decided to twist together!
This funky little number was made with a vintage earring as pendant on a dramatically long string of pearls (I'm wearing it today with a black shirt, and it looks great!)
This vintage pin with needlepoint detail just needed a chain, and voila!
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