May I Have This Dance?

I was four years old when I put on my first pair of dancing shoes.  Ballet shoes to be specific.  And so began a love affair with what I believe is the most perfect art form of all...dance.


A few years of ballet let into a few years of rhythmic gymnastics, and the love affair blossomed.


But life has a way of creating many paths, and the path of dance was not the one I ended up taking.


Once we moved to the U.S. from Portugal, we couldn't afford dance classes for me...and there ended my dreams of becoming a dancer.  


It couldn't, however, end my love of the art form.  I continued to dance, casually, for fun.  At home, creating music videos with my cousins in my grandmother's basement.  Later, at night clubs, earning me attention from guys who constantly questioned where a "white girl learned to move like that".  I loved to dance, and I was good at it.


As I got older, I stopped going to clubs, and dancing became something that I did less and less of.  Unless you count my jam sessions around the house, as I clean and do laundry (which, totally count), I now only dance at the occasional wedding, or party, or on the random event that my girls and I venture for a girls' night out at a dance club.


But my love of dance? It runs deeper than words can express.  I have seen every dance movie ever made.  No seriously, try me, I've seen it.  And as I sit here watching So You Think You Can Dance, with a smile on my face, I can only tell you that this art form tugs at a special place in my heart that I can't quite explain.


I watch this show with a smile on my face, but my box of tissues is never out of reach, because as much as good dance can make me smile, it can bring me to tears just as quickly...and if you don't know what I mean...well, then you're obviously not a dancer (even if it is just in your heart), but the dancers out there, whether you do it professionally, or in the privacy of your own home, I KNOW you KNOW exactly what I mean...

Tuesday Tunes - Bruno Mars

I love music. I mean, I honestly LOVE music.  I don’t know how anyone can make it through a day without some sort of soundtrack.  I listen to music as I get ready in the morning, while I work, as I drive around town, during my workouts, and before I go to bed.

Good music can easily bring me to tears, make me dance, or put a smile on my face. 

There are artists whose music touches the very depths of my soul.  There are artists whose voices make me swoon, or lose my sense of reality.

There are songs that bring me right back to moments in my personal history.

There are songs that describe what I’m feeling THIS VERY MOMENT so exactly, I think they must have been written for me.

I celebrate with music, I mourn with music, I pray with music.

Music, to me, is nearly as essential as the air I breathe.

And I have the most eclectic taste in music…from rap to rock, from pop to jazz, from country to Christian…

So there is always some new, or new to me, music to discover, and to share with others.

Which is why I’ve decided to do just that here…each week, I’ll introduce you to just a bit of the music I’m loving at the moment…


Not so much "album reviews" although sometimes, that's exactly what it will be, but more "artist reviews" if you will...

To kick it off, this week, I’ll start with an album that’s been on constant replay on my mp3 player for a few weeks.

Bruno Mars.

It's very likely you've already heard of Bruno, or at the very least, you've heard one of his many songs on the radio.

Such as: "Just The Way You Are"

A beautiful ode to a woman, and her perfection, well...just as she is.


Or "Grenade":





A heartbreaking song of loving someone so much, you would do anything for them, even if they, in turn, seem to only abuse and under appreciate you.


And Bruno Mars has also collaborated with some great artists of today, such as, B.O.B. on "Nothin' On You"



and Travie McCoy on "Billionaire" (yes, THAT'S what you know him from).  Warning, the video below is the uncensored not for radio version and contains the F word.





All of these are great songs. But it's some of the lesser known unreleased songs from his album that I've got on constant replay..."Runaway" which is actually a GREAT running song, "The Other Side"...a little bit Michael Jackson "Thriller" a little bit "ode to Twilight", "Count on Me" a happy melody about being there for your friends, and my ultimate favorite "Talking to the Moon" a pretty ballad that showcases the range of his voice and emotion.


So there you have it...an artist I think you should check out.

All She Wants To Do Is Dance

I’m determined to start posting more regularly on this blog, and I think in order to do that, I have to let go of some of my self-imposed expectations and allow myself to just write.

See, back in the day, when I had more time, I would write these lengthy creative posts, with pictures and links and things.

Because I no longer have the time or the energy for those, I find myself not writing at all.

And that’s just a shame.

So, I’m letting go, and I’m just going to write. I’m going back to basics and back to when I used this blog to write my random thoughts and feelings of my daily life.

Today, I’m going to tell you about last Saturday night, because it was both a fun night, and also, unfortunately, a bit of a reality check.

I went out Saturday night with my cousin M&M and her friend, who is now also my friend, who, for my own reasons, will be known as Match.

Anyway, Match and I kicked off the evening at a “not-tupperware” party. If you have no idea what I’m talking about, that’s just as well, but for those of you who have a slight suspicion, yes, it was one of THOSE. M&M couldn’t join us, so Match and I went, and had a pretty decent time. Really, it was pretty hilarious.

After said party, we headed over to M&M’s for drinks and some munchies, before really heading out for a night of dancing and fun at a local bar/club.

Now, my days of nightclubs are far far behind me. When I was in my 20’s every weekend was a chance to spend 2 to 3 nights dancing the night away. In my heyday, there was rarely a club night that didn’t include a little drinking, a lot of dancing, and always some flirting and phone number exchange.

Out on a dance floor, I was full of confidence, knowing I CAN dance, and that confidence without fail always translated into male attention.

In those days, I knew I had IT, and IT always resulted in plenty of dates. I was never lacking for attention from the opposite sex. It was so easy then.

But things have changed. I spent the better part of my late 20’s and early 30’s in a sort of “holding pattern”. Single, content, hardly ever meeting any eligible men, never mind dating, and not exactly noticing or caring all that much about it.

Suddenly, at 35, I find myself once again wanting to date. I would love to meet a nice guy who can create a spark of chemistry between us, make me laugh, and arouse my intellect.

In the meantime, I wouldn’t mind a simple flirtation or two.

So, Saturday night, armed with the knowledge that my leaner, fitter body looked pretty hot in my skinny jeans, high heels and form fitting, but not sleazy tank top, I headed out on the dance floor. My domain. The one place I have always felt confident, and irresistible.

And I can still dance. My confidence in that aspect has never wavered. But it was all different.

I was surrounded by kids in their late teens and early 20’s. Surrounded by little girls in littler dresses, flaunting ALL their stuff with zero inhibitions, performing moves on the dance floor which should be reserved for the stripper pole.

And although I remember being wild in my heyday, I’m pretty sure I drew the line somewhere much tamer than this.

And I found myself beating back the motherly instinct to tell these girls to put some clothes on and stop acting like Jersey Shore Snookie. And I’m not even a mother.

And I realized that IT no longer belongs to me. And the truth of it all is, I’m pretty sure I no longer want IT anyway. Not if that’s the way to get IT now…

Don’t get me wrong, I had fun. The three of us danced the night away, and the people watching alone was worth the price of admission.

But I felt old and out of place, and sure I didn’t belong.

Even the adorable 29 year old boy who argued I didn’t look a day over 25 (bless his heart) couldn’t take away the feeling that as much as I love to dance, this is so no longer my scene.

And even the adorable 29 year old boy wasn’t interested in my phone number.

Because as much fun as we had flirting and joking for a few minutes, I was no competition for the barely dressed 23 year olds he was dancing with later on that evening. Nor did I want to be.

I’ve had my turn, it’s time, perhaps, to pass that torch.

And yet…a part of me grieves for that younger me, out on the dance floor, having the time of her life. Never suspecting that one day, many years later, she’d have to let go, grow up, and put away her dancing shoes.

Only The Good Friday – It's Been Awhile

I haven't done an Only The Good Friday (OTGF) post in a while, and well...that's just not right, is it?

So, here we go, helping Shelly from This Eclectic Life spread the Optimism Virus. My understanding is that poor Shelly is actually suffering a serious bout of the flu or some such other mean illness, so the LEAST I can do is help to spread some positivity, you think?

In case you are unfamiliar with OTGF, the general idea is to have one day a week where we post ONLY GOOD THINGS. No sarcasm, no complaining, no whining, no woe is me...just good stuff.

Some times, the good stuff is the kind of "Good" that uplifts the world, inspirational, charitable, motivating. Other times, it's a little more personal, a little less altruistic, and like today, a little more..."here are the small, silly blessings that make me smile".

Here's my good stuff this week:

I'm getting a new phone. Actually, by the time you read this, because I'm pre-writing it (shh don't tell), I may already have my new phone. I'd better already have my new phone...or else...oh, never mind, optimism...good...happy...

I'm getting THIS phone:

It's the Samsung Moment for Sprint, the new Android platform phone. I am so excited. I love new tech toys, I'm such a geek girl.

I'll tell you all about the phone once I've had a chance to play around with it.

By the way, also, anyone want a slightly used blackberry curve for sprint? I'll sell it to you cheap!

More good stuff:

I am going to see Daughtry/Lifehouse in concert in June. Not only that, but I'm going to do so in Pittsburgh, which means I get to visit my friend WEST Virginia (who does, indeed, live in West Virginia). Since we both wanted to go to this concert, and I wanted to go visit her, we decided to combine the two things, and there you go! Very excited.

Even more good stuff:

Tomorrow night I am attending a "Masquerade Ball" fundraiser for a local children's hospital. My friends and I will get all dressed up (and don masks) and eat, drink, dance, and raise money for a good cause.

Now THAT's all kinds of good, don't you think?

I hope you have a WONDERFUL Friday and a wonderful weekend. Don't forget to drop by Shelly's to see all the other GOOD out there.

Cafe Karina - American Idol - Wildcard

Here's the real WildCard moment of the night...will I or won't I keep watching American Idol this season after this episode? It's all up in the air, because it really depends on what the judges decide to do.

In tonight's episode eight contestants have been given a second chance to battle it out for the three remaining spots in the top twelve. So, the real question is, will the judges put them through based on talent, or are they looking for this season's Sanjaya? Because, Tatiana still being there? It's a Sanjaya moment if you ask me.

Anyway, I've had more than my share of American Idol talk this week, so I'll keep this brief tonight...

The performances:

Jesse Langseth: Was good, wasn't great.
Matt Giraud: LOVED him. LOVED!
Megan Corkey: Loved her too, though I thought it was a little rough at times.
Von Smith: Yikes...song choice Von! Didn't love it. He has a great voice, but this was NOT a good song choice for him.
Jasmine Murray: I thought she sounded great, she has a great voice, but I didn't think this was the best song choice for her either.
Ricky Braddy: This boy can sing, he has a great voice, and he had fun up there. He doesn't really grab me personally, but he is great.
Tatiana Del Toro: UGH...just her little intro film made me want to turn off my television she annoys me so damn much. But then damn it, if this girl can't sing. She actually has a pretty great voice...damn it, she can sing. UGH....but then she opens her mouth to speak and I want to throw something at my television.
Anoop Desai: Why does this guy pick these songs? My Perrogative? Really? I have to be honest, I'm not getting all the hype for Anoop...I'm just not. Don't get me wrong, he has a good voice, but...eh.

And that's that...so who made it through?

Jasmine Murray is up first and told she is going through. (I'm good with that choice).
Ricky Braddy is up next, and he is not.
Then Ryan brings up Megan Corkey and Tatiana and when we are told that Megan is going through and Tatiana is NOT, I do a little dance for joy. I guess I'll keep watching the show then.

Now there is one spot left, and...and the show went over it's aloted time and my Tivo didn't record it. No, seriously, it stopped just short of the final announcement.

But, fret not dear readers, I looked it up. It's between Von Smith, Jesse Langseth, Matt Giraud and Anoop Desai. Me personally? I'd have picked Matt Giraud, but I was thinking the judges would go with Anoop...

Well, I was right and wrong, because it turns out that they decided to go with 13 this season, and both Matt and Anoop have made it through.

So there you go...the judges have made it so that I can continue to watch the show by eliminating Tatiana, and choosing some actually talented singers.

I'm looking forward to next week's performances, are you?

The Single Girl's Guide to Valentine's Day

So, here it is, just a couple of days away, Valentine’s Day. The day of roses and chocolate hearts, candlelit dinners are expensive jewelry gifts. A day for lovers and romantics alike.

But you? You’re single.

Therefore, by all accounts, you should stock up on your favorite flavor of ice-cream, some sappy romance movies, a bottle of wine and a box of tissues, because you, my dear, are spending Saturday night at home, feeling sorry for yourself.

Right?

WRONG.

Because you are single, but you are not bitter, depressed, lonely, miserable and pathetic. In fact, the other 364 days out of the year, you are actually an intelligent, successful, stylish, independent FIERCE woman. A woman who walks with her head held high, proud of her accomplishment and prepared to take on the world. Single or not, dating or in between relationships, you KNOW who you are, and you love being that girl. You’ve got it all together, and if a man hasn’t come along just yet to realize what a perfect catch you are? Well, that’s just fine with you, because you know that when, and if, it is your time, you’ll get the catch of the century. And until then, you’re perfectly comfortable in your own skin, living life as it comes at you.

But, Valentine’s Day is here, and with it, the insecurities, the expectations, the disappointments. Because no matter how fiercely independent we single girls are, on Valentine’s day, everyone wants to receive roses at work.

As a bonus, this particular Valentine’s Day happens to fall on Saturday, so, if you want to go the route of ice cream and tissues, you can. You don’t need to show up to work, and you won’t even have to watch your coupled up co-workers receive flowers at their desks. The single-girl gods are smiling down upon you this year.

But, how do you survive another “lover’s holiday” as a single girl? Here are some ideas.

There is, of course, the option of just going about your day, ignoring the fact that it is Valentine’s day, not paying much attention to the hype of a Hallmark created holiday. That is an option, but let’s be honest, you’re not deaf, blind or dumb, and you are well aware what day it is.

So, let’s go ahead and embrace the day, turn Valentine’s Day into your very own cause for celebration.

Gather the troops - Round up your other single girl friends and hey, if you have them, single guy friends, single gay friends, whatever, after all, you’re all on the same boat, right? Be it one, or ten, make a date, and set only one rule: No “Woe is Me” mentality allowed this evening.

Get dressed up – Everyone knows that when you look good, you feel good. So do it up. Dress to the nines, dress to impress, dress to kill.

Have a plan – Due to the nature of the beast, restaurants, movie theatres and perhaps even bars and clubs will be crowded tonight. Plan ahead, make reservations where necessary, buy tickets in advance, be prepared. Select a movie that you can enjoy without having to share the room with a bunch of lovey dovey couples, because even those of us most secure in our singledom are bound to be affected by obvious displays of affection and romance. Choose a restaurant with more of a fun vibe, versus the candles on the table, violinist in the corner type.

Seek alternatives – Think of all the places you’d love to go on a romantic valentine’s date. Got them? Good. Now cross those off your list. Think of the places you know most husbands and boyfriends would love to take their dates but know better than to even attempt it for fear of spending a week in the doghouse. Got those? Yep, that’s exactly where you want to go. That hockey game, action flick, paintball tournament you heard about? Odds are the crowd at these places is either going to be single men, (and women), or couples who are not so much in the lovey dovey stage of their relationship, so they’ll be fun to be around, Valentine’s Day or not. Yes, I know this sounds sexist and gender role prejudiced or whatnot, but let’s be honest, it’s Valentine’s Day and even the sportiest of girls is expecting to be treated to a romantic dinner at a nice restaurant on this day if she has a man in her life.

Try something new – always wanted to try sky diving, pottery making, or snow shoeing? Always wanted to check out that new dance club, take a drive out to that weird diner, or attend that midnight showing of Buffy the Musical? Tonight’s the night. You’re breaking tradition already by not letting the holiday turn your Saturday into a “mopey” day, so add a new adventure to your list. What have you got to lose?

Have fun – this is the most important thing. No matter what it is you decide to do tonight, make it fun. After all, you passed on the option to stay home and sulk, didn’t you? So, enjoy yourself.

A few don’ts:

- Don’t wear all black and refer to the day as “Black Saturday”, it’s not going to do anybody any good.

- Don’t send yourself flowers. There’s nothing wrong with buying fresh flowers for your home, or desk, but if you do it today, you’re just going to feel pathetic when you get them with the card signed “you know who”…yes, you know who, and really, it didn’t work to make you feel better, did it?

- Don’t indulge in the ice cream/chocolate/comfort food myth. All you’ll gain from these is an extra 2 lbs you don’t need.

- Don’t hunt for a last minute date just so you can have one. It’ll put unnecessary pressure on both of you, and it’s a waste of what could otherwise be a perfectly good first date.

- Don’t hang out with that one friend, you know the one, who is going to spend the entire evening bitching and moaning about not having a boyfriend AGAIN this year. Leave her at home with the ice cream and the romantic comedies.

- Don’t, whatever you do, watch romantic comedies that evening. Honestly, why would you do that to yourself?

- Don’t hesitate to give out your number to the cute guy in front of you at the hockey game, or send a drink to that other one, watching you from across the bar. Just because you’re single this Valentine’s Day, doesn’t mean you can’t be celebrating an anniversary this time next year.

-Don’t worry, this day only comes once a year, and as much as you may think you’re going to have a miserable time, just remember one thing, it’s not any better for your coupled off friends. Or did you forget all the fights and disagreements this holiday caused your past relationships? See? You’re bound to have a better time if you just put your mind to it.

SO get to it! And then come back here and tell me how you spent your V-Day. Oh, and for those of you in relationships? I want to know how you spent your V-Day too, good, bad or ugly, I promise I won’t judge. ;-)

As far as what THIS single girl will be doing? I'm taking my own advice, I'm heading to a college hockey game with a group of single girl friends. Dinner, flirting with college boys, and just having a good ol' fashioned girl's night out. How can that NOT be a good night?

Cafe Karina - The Bachelor - "I Cannot Be Silly"!

It's Bachelor time once again! This week kicks off with a singing contest. The girls are given 30 minutes to compose a song, and then they step up to perform for him. From these performances, Jason will pick the girl who will get a one on one date with him. Who will it be?

Molly sings a silly diddy, Shannon does a rap song, the rest of the girls goof off, show off, or shout off. Lauren tries her hand at a real song and actually sounds pretty good. And then Nikki has a complete melt down because she "cannot be silly" and does not even sing happy birthday to her nieces and nephews. And yet, when she finally allows herself to sing, she pulls it off with a lullaby to her future child. What was all the drama about?

When all is said (uh sung) and done, Jason picks Molly for the one on one date. And the date is just a "hang out at home date".

While the two of them are on their "cozy" s'more making date, the rest of the girls find out who will be going on the group date the next day, and who will be going on a two on one date with him. A two on one date which will send one of the girls home. Those two will be Nikki and Stephanie, which sends Nikki into her second crying fit of the day.

Back at the date, however, Jason has given Molly a rose, and invited her to "camp out" with him in a tent overnight...awww, how sweet.

So, in the morning she takes the "walk of shame" in his clothes back to the house.

And then Jason goes on a group date to the set of General Hospital, where Shannon jumps right in to a kissing scene, which quite honestly, just makes her seem like a lovesick fan...poor girl, she's so on "rock start" mode with him.

Jason, however is having a blast making out with all the girls for the sake of "acting" of course...

After all the making out...uh, acting, Jason takes all the girls to a VIP Hollywood party.

But nobody is in a party mood. All the girls are emotional, jealous, and not really enjoying themselves. All of them except Megan who is taking full advantage of the situation to try and play into Jason's arms. I have to tell you, I just still don't like her. Don't trust her, don't like her.

And then Lauren decides she's going to play bossy and "you need to give me a rose tonight or I'm going to get pissed"...and I think she comes across not exactly how she intended to...think that plan backfired sweetie.

Then Melissa breaks down and cries to Jason about how much it is hurting her to see him make out with other girls. They share a very sweet tender moment, and are rudely interrupted by Shannon. But hey, a girls' got to get her time, right? She decides to spill her heart to Jason. Guess tonight is the night for all the girls to cry their hearts out and put it all on the line.

The question is, is Jason buying all the tears and fears?

After all the crying and sharing, Jason gives Naomi the rose for the night.

And then it is time for the Two on One date. Stephanie and Nikki are presented with designer gowns for their special date. But let's not forget, only one of these girls will be coming home from their date...who will it be?

There's a bit of a dance off between the two girls with Jason. It's funny because I don't think I've ever seen a more "civilized cat fight"...but this was definitely a cat fight. Funny. Then Nikki finally opens up to Jason and tells him about her 11 year relationship which ended a little over a year ago and broke her heart.

And then it is time for Jason to give out his rose, and he gives it to Stephanie. Nikki is going home. She waited too long to open up it seems. Poor girl, it really showed in her monologue in the limo that she suffers from some serious self-esteem issues, likely stemming from her being dumped by her ex the way she was. My heart actually hurt for her a little bit...

And Stephanie? I'm still not feeling her as the one for Jason.

Back at the homestead, the girls are still stressing on the "this is so hard" factor, with another Rose ceremony around the corner.

So, let me break down my feelings on the remaining girls, now that we're down to a manageable number.

There's Jillian. I like her, but don't know that I see the romance with them.

There's Melissa. I really like her, think she's sweet, and I see a certain chemistry between them for sure.

There's Megan. I've already said it, so I won't get into it, but I just don't like her...at all. I get a really bad, phony vibe off her, and I hope he'll eventually see through to that...

There's Stephanie. She's sweet and all, but I don't know...I'm not seeing it.

There's Lauren. Eh...nope.

There's Shannon...she still freaks me out and I don't think she's in anyway equiped to handle the seriousness of a relationship, marriage and motherhood.

There's Naomi, who I like, but feel like we haven't gotten to know all that well yet.

There's Molly. I like Molly. Molly has potential.

So, who will go home? Which two girls will not get roses tonight? Stephanie, Naomi and Molly are safe with roses already.

Melissa gets the first rose of the evening, with Jillian receiving the second. And then there were three. Shannon, Lauren and Megan...who will it be?

Play the shocking suspense music a little longer and then Jason puts down the rose and says he can't give out the final rose. He tells all three ladies that he thinks they are beautiful ladies, but can't see a future with any of them, so he will not hand out the final rose...all three are going home.

See, I told you I was perfect for Jason, right? Because so far, we're totally seeing eye to eye on these girls. Ah, such is life girls...

And then there were five. FIVE...Getting close to the finish line, aren't we? What drama will we have next week?

Guess we'll have to stay tuned and see...

Year End Meme - 2008

It’s time for the end of the year meme!

I saw this a few weeks ago at Bleeding Espresso and I thought this would be a perfect way to wrap up 2008.

So here we go:

1. What did you do in 2007 that you’d never done before? OH, so many things. Got a tattoo, went to Fort Lauderdale, met Donnie Wahlberg, lost 20 lbs., wrote 50,000 words in 30 days, became a youth group leader…we’ll stop there.

2. Did you keep your new year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year? I don’t really believe in “resolutions” but I make plans. I think I did fairly well this year, and I have LOTS of plans for 2009, you can read all about those here.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth? Hmm…one of my coworkers, but I’m not really close to her, I don’t think anyone else did though…

4. Did anyone close to you die? Friends of friends and relatives of friends mostly.

5. What countries did you visit? Didn’t leave the U.S. this year. Must remedy that next year.

6. What would you like to have in 2009 that you lacked in 2008? You know, I didn’t lack much this year…but, how about a few good dates? I could go for that.

7. What dates from 2008 will remain etched upon your memory, and why? As far as “specific” dates, Thanksgiving weekend for the youth retreat, November 8 because that’s when I met Donnie Wahlberg and got my Donnie Hug (what?)…that’s it for “dates” though.

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year? I don’t know that I’d call it an achievement as much as a personal step, but I’d say reconnecting with my faith. Also, writing those 50,000 words in 30 days is pretty amazing. And then there’s the 20 lb. weight loss. Oh, and actually getting that Donnie hug? Yeah, that was an achievement! Ha

9. What was your biggest failure? Hmm…nothing is jumping out at me.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury? Just the common cold and stuff

11. What was the best thing you bought? Besides my tattoo? Maybe the HDTV and HT Tivo, kind loving those. OH, no wait, I take it back, best things I bought were my tickets to see NKOTB…twice.

12. Whose behavior merited celebration? My mom’s for getting me to join Jenny Craig with her, so we could do the weight loss thing together.

13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed? Besides the obvious political and media ones? Yeah, those were mostly it.

14. Where did most of your money go? Toward cost of living expenses mostly. No fun.

15. What did you get really, really, really excited about? It seems I spent most of this year, or at least the second half of this year really, really excited about everything. The youth group stuff, my faith, my tattoo, the NKOTB reunion, taking a trip to visit “Traveller” in Ft. Lauderdale, my weight loss…yeah, it was a really exciting year.

16. What song will always remind you of 2008? Well, it sort of goes without saying that any of the NKOTB new songs will, but besides those, that annoying Lady Gaga song “Dance” and Katie Perry’s “Hot and Cold”.

17. Compared to this time last year, are you: (a) happier or sadder? (b) thinner or fatter? (c) richer or poorer? Happier, thinner and richer (financially as well as spiritually).

18. What do you wish you’d done more of? Travelling, writing and organization…I spent a lot of time overwhelmed and confused this year, I need to work on that.

19. What do you wish you’d done less of? Hmm…procrastinating. I REALLY need to stop doing that.

20. How did you spend Christmas? With my family, having the best time EVER.

21. Did you fall in love in 2008? Yes, but not romantic love. I fell in love with God and with my friends and with the youth who give me great hope for our future. Oh, right, and then there’s Donnie Wahlberg. ;-)

22. What was your favorite TV program? Hmm…You know, I watched a lot of tv, but I can’t say I watched anything that really excited me. I don’t think I have a favorite.

23. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year? I don’t believe in harboring hate toward people, so no.

24. What was the best book you read? I really didn’t read very much this year, and I really can’t even remember almost any books I read, so I definitely can’t pick a “best” book.

25. What was your greatest musical discovery? Just recently discovered Straight No Chaser (an accapella group) and I think they’re pretty amazing. Hmm…there was a lot of music in my life this past year actually.

26. What did you want and get? To get back in shape and look and feel good about my self-image.

27. What did you want and not get? A new car.

28. What was your favorite film of this year? I didn’t really watch a lot of movies either, and I can't think of one that stood out for me.

29. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you? I turned 33, and I don’t remember what I did. Uh…not good. ;-)

30. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying? I really don’t know how I could answer this. This year was amazing, I can’t imagine asking for anything else.

31. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2007? Well, the first half of the year was “whatever fits that doesn’t make me cringe”. The second half was more of a “self-discovery” of what looks good again. I’ll be back in full “fashion diva” form now though.

32. What kept you sane? God, my faith family, my mom and the blog world.

33. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most? Do I really need to tell you this one? AS if I haven't turned this whole meme into a NKOTB love fest already? Okay, here's Donnie in case you were wondering...standing MERE inches from me...sigh...

34. What political issue stirred you the most? Well, this was the year of the presidential election that will go down in history, so it was hard to not be politically stirred, wasn’t it?

35. Who did you miss? I missed my grandma a lot this year. There were just a lot of times that I really wanted to talk to her.

36. Who was the best new person you met? There were a few people I met at the end of 2007, but really got to know in 2008 that completely changed my life. I also “met” myself all over again in 2008, and you know what? I’m pretty awesome. Haha. But actual, real people that I met in 2008? It was really cool to meet Frances in person, she’s awesome. Also, my new boss and all the folks at my new job are pretty cool. And then there’s the youth.

38. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.

Here's one: Lifehouse - Everything: You are the strength, that keeps me walking.You are the hope, that keeps me trusting.You are the light to my soul.You are my purpose...you're everything.How can I stand here with you and not be moved by you?Would you tell me how could it be any better than this?

Let me know if you do the year end meme!

Thursday Thirteen #58 - Shameless Self-Promotion

I haven't done a Thursday Thirteen in quite a long time, but then I haven't exactly been blogging as much as I used to either. Real life has sort of gotten in the way of blogging (imagine that?), but I have no complaints...real life has been great. Yet, this week I decided that I was going to attempt to blog daily, and so, I figured I'd take this chance to shamelessly self-promote some of my favorite posts that I have done in the last few weeks.

So, I give you my 13 recent posts I'd love for you to peruse:

1. Soul Sisters - In this one, just posted this week, I tell you about the girls in my life that are definitely invaluable to my every day.

2. All The Boys - The Soulmate - Since we're talking about soulmates, you should meet the one that was.

3. The ABC's of Me - just a little MeMe fun, but a way for you to get to know me just a little bit more.

4. All The Boys - The One That Never Was - Might as well give you another of my "All The Boys" tales.

5. Bacon Lollipops? - You have to read it to believe it.

6. Final Dance - A creative effort on my other blog, a new form of poetry, which I really enjoyed attempting.

7. This Kind of Love - yet another creative effort...there weren't that many in July, but I really felt the few I did take on.

8. Tale of Two Squirrels - Because I cracked myself up writing it.

9 - 13. So You Think You Can Dance - The recaps. Okay, I'm totally cheating here...see, the thing is, I haven't really posted enough lately to pick 13 posts you should read...but I have done weekly recaps of this wonderful show...so I think you should read them all! So I'm just telling you to head on over to Cafe Karina and do some browsing.

Yeah, yeah, I know...I cheated. I'm having too much fun this summer to pay attention to rules...The only rule I'm adhering to now when I blog is to enjoy myself, and hopefully I can write something once in a while that'll make you smile.

So, that's it for me this Thursday...but I have a little something up my sleeve for tomorrow, so don't stray too far.

The ABC's of Me - With Photos

I was tagged by Frigga quite a while ago with this ABC Meme, and I didn't forget about it so much as I just haven't been posting all that much lately. But I figured this would be a good post for a rainy Friday...

A is for: Attached or Single? Single and always loving it, but…as I mentioned in pretty much every single one of my “The Bachelorette” recaps at Café Karina…if anyone has Jason’s number, I’m willing to change that status for him.

B is for: Best Friend? All my friends are the best.
C is for Cake or pie? Pie, although, I much prefer mousse, chocolate mousse…YUM

D is for: Day of choice? Saturday for sure, get up when I want, go to bed when I want, do what I want in between…I love me some Saturdays!

E is for: Essential item? Just one? Cell phone. My life is in that phone, and wait till I get a blackberry or palm treo or something of the sort…I’ll be unstoppable then!

F is for: Favorite color? I do not have a favorite color, per se, but lately I’m quite partial to jewel tones, that deep purple that’s so in vogue, the emerald green…those colors

G is for: Gummy bears or worms? Neither, I’ll take Sour Patch Kids please!

H is for: Home town? I don’t know, I suppose I’ll go with Lowell, Massachusetts, because that’s where I spent my formative (i.e. teen) years…

I is for: Favorite indulgence? Shoes..shoes are by far my favorite indulgence

J is for: January or July? Always July…can it be July for a few more months?

K is for: Kids? LOVE kids. I especially love other people’s kids, because at the end of the day? You get to give them back and go home to your nice quiet kid free condo! ;-)

L is for: Life isn’t complete without? Love. And by love I mean faith, friends, family, all the really important things

M is for: Marriage date? You never know, that might actually happen in this lifetime, but first we need to work on the letter A above.

N is for: Number of brothers and sisters? One biological brother, Candid Brother himself (seen here with a "friend"). One lil’ sis through Big Brother Big Sister: Lil' K

O is for: Oranges or Apples? Mangos. WHAT? No one said I had to play by the rules.

P is for: Phobias? Ledges…not so much heights, but the “edge” of high (and not necessarily high) places freak me right out. And being underwater…can’t do it, won’t do it…EVER.

Q is for: Quotes? “What you think of me is none of my business” - Terry Cole-Whitaker; “If you think you are too small to make an impact, try going to bed with a mosquito." - Anita Rodick

R is for: Reasons to smile? All of the above, all of the below, the many many blessings in my life. Oh yeah, and chocolate.

S is for: Season of choice? Summer, Summer, Summer!!!! And just in case you missed it…SUMMER.

T is for: Tag 5 people: Sorry folks, I'm not tagging, but I'm inviting you to do this meme if you want to...I think you'll enjoy it.

U is for an Unknown fact about me: Oh come on, my life is an open book! No? Okay, let’s see…I don’t drink soda…ever. Not for health reasons or any of that, I just don’t like carbonation in my drinks.

V is for: Vegetable? I love veggies, spinach, tomatoes, broccoli, green beans, snap peas, you name it, I probably like it…veggies are great!

W is for: Worst habit? Picking at my acne in my sleep. Yes, I know it’s gross, I don’t do it consciously…and besides, why am I still getting acne in my 30’s anyway?? Sheesh!

X is for: X-ray or Ultrasound? UM…yes, I’ve had both done…is that the question?

Y is for: Your favorite food? You should know by now (or you will learn anyway) that I suck at picking favorites…there’s no way I can do it, especially with food…and shoes…and people…and colors…and places and…

Z is for: Zodiac sign? FISHES…ironic for someone deathly afraid of being underwater, doncha think?

Z is for: Which zoo animal is your favorite? TWO Z’s?? And again with the favorites. It’s a toss- up between the wild cats (any of them, panthers, tigers, lions, leopards) and the monkeys…I love monkeys!

I also grabbed this meme from Frigga right around the same time...I wasn't tagged for it, but I tagged myself...so, might as wel throw it in here. It's the MeMe of Firsts and Lasts:

First real job: By real, I’ll assume that means babysitting doesn’t count, so we’ll go with the first job where I paid taxes and that would be every American teenager’s dream job (insert sarcastic eye roll here) McD’s.

First screen name: As if I could remember that? It was something on Compuserve, I know that…remember compuserve? Am I dating myself here?

First funeral: For the father of a friend of mine, who died from Lou Gherrig’s disease…I was 17 or so…it was horrible

First pet: Nice, the cat. Her name was the ultimate misnomer, she was NOT nice, but she was beautiful, and became the mother to the nicest, sweetest most awesome cat I’ve ever had, Pom-Pom

First piercing: and only – ears; oh wait, I’m lying, I got a second hole in each ear at one point, but they got infected and I let them close up

First tattoo: could be happening very very soon…stay tuned

First credit card: probably one of the many I signed up for on spring break in Daytona so I could get free stuff

First kiss: YUCK…read this post where I told you all about it.

First enemy: Stacy Greekopolous (not her real last name). She was evil, and jealous and made 8th grade miserable for me…but I got sweet revenge without even doing anything..maybe I’ll tell you about her someday.

Last car ride: home from work today, in the pouring rain...what fun!

Last kiss: OH, we don’t want to relive that fiasco, can we talk about the one before that instead?

And that's that...Happy Friday everyone. Hop on over to Cafe Karina for the latest "So You Think You Can Dance" recap, and Creative Karina for my latest entry into Pensieve's Poetic License (where she created a whole new poetic form JUST FOR US). Tomorrow stop by for Photo Hunter, and next week I'll have my next installment in my tales of "All The Boys I've Loved".

New Stuff

No new post for you here today, but I've got new stuff at my other two blogs. A little more "So You Think You Can Dance" at Cafe Karina, and an entry for the first time in...yikes...two months, at "Creative Karina".

I'd love you to stop by!

Thursday Thirteen #57 - A Little Bit of Nascar

I haven't done a Thursday Thirteen in a bit, but then again, I haven't done a whole lot of blogging lately either. But I wanted to participate this week, and share some of my adventure at Nascar this past weekend. So, here are 13 things I learned at Nascar:

1. Having connections (or friends who have connections) ROCKS. My friend Traveller managed to get us not only Pit Passes, but also Suite Passes for the races thist past weekend in New Hampshire.

Yeah, we sat in the same suite as the guy who runs all of Nascar (or so Traveller told me, I wouldn't know him from Adam, she's the Nascar fan).

2. Hanging out in the Garage/Pit area, getting up close and personal with the drivers and the pit crews? That was so much fun.

3. Let's talk about the pit crews for a minute shall we? HOLY EYE CANDY. Ladies, forget the drivers, it's the crew guys that are delicious to look at.

4. Moving on to the actual racing...I had no idea it could actually be that much fun to watch a bunch of cars go round and round in a circle. Who knew? Turns out there's a whole lot more to it than just racing around in a circle, and it's those little intricacies that make it such a fun sport to watch.

5. Who knew also how freakin' loud it would be? I mean, I was forewarned, but it was still louder than I thought it would be.

6. And do you have any idea how hard it is to photograph a car going 180 mph?

Not quite...
Almost... AHA! Gotcha!

7. Race cars are REALLY low to the ground...which makes getting in and out of the cars pretty hard. But oh so fun!8. I'd never really watched a race before this, so I'd never really understood the significance of the phrase "quick pit stop". When they say "quick"...they're not kidding around. It takes them all of 8 seconds to change four tires, gas up the car and perform whatever other necessary "fix us" may need to be done.
Even more props to those hot crew guys.

9. Speaking of hot guys...David Stremme:

Kinda hot, don't'cha think?

10. Also hot? Clint Bowyer, who never met a good pose he didn't like:

11. I learned that you must wear comfortable shoes when you go to a Nascar event, especially if you've got pit passes, because you will do A LOT of walking around. We saw every square inch of that place, I'll tell you! But it was great fun.

12. Nascar fans don't mess around. Talk about a wide variety of fan...we're not just cheering for two teams here, so you get all walks of life, all different support teams in the stands. With their wagons and coolers full of beer, and they're trailers and grills and bbq pits, these are some real fans. And if they don't like you (Kyle Busch), they'll let you know, loud and clear.

13. Traveller and I? We are total Rock Stars. This:

The view from our VIP Suite...free tickets, free food, free alcohol...what a fantastic time we had. And you know what? On Sunday, while at home recovering from my wild weekend...I watched the race on television...I think Nascar has gained a fan.

Thanks for stopping in!

And I know I owe some posts, some memes, a story about bacon lollipops and so much more...they're in the works, I promise. In the meantime, I've got Fun Monday, the Bachelorette, The Two Coreys and So You Think You Can Dance to tide you over...

We Are the Champions!!!

Here in the Boston area it's all about the Celtics winning the Championship...their 17th, but the first in 22 years. We're all wild and crazy ecstatic and wearing our green and shamrocks proudly. And we're also all walking around like zombies because we stayed up WAY too late last night to watch the game and celebrations afterwards.

My eyes are closing on me as I type this, so I'm going to keep it nice and short. Tomorrow night I will have a post for you all about my new job, it's mostly written, but I just don't have the energy it would take for the editing piece, so...it'll have to hold.

In the meantime, I invite you to catch a little "So You Think You Can Dance" over at the Cafe. Tonight's post a recap of the performances. Tomorrow night we'll have a recap of the results show.

Good night everyone, my pillow is whispering sweet nothings in my ear, and I must listen.

Come on Over

There will be a new post up here tonight, but in the meantime won't you come over to Cafe Karina for a cup of coffee? Over there you'll find the Bachelorette drinking an espresso with the last four Bachelors, and the kids from So You Think You Can Dance drinking energy drinks because boy, do they need them.

Please do stop on by, we'd love to serve you!

Follow-Up Friday - New Beginnings

I started off this week with a look back, before I forged ahead. Fun Monday this week was all about our favorite vacations, and I had a fun trip down memory lane, looking over my Mexico photos and sharing them with you.

Then on Tuesday I started my new job. I was a bit nervous for my first day, a bit like a little kid on the first day of school. But, I was also excited to start this new chapter in my life. Thank you all for your positive words of encouragement.

Wednesday we had a little party here. It was time to launch the Re-Design of the blog, so we had cake and ice cream...well, actually, we had ice cream cake...and prizes. If you didn't get a chance to stop by the party yet, pop on over, there's still ice cream (a recipe too) and you can still enter to win one of the prizes.

And yesterday I filled you all in a little bit about the new job. One more day in and I'm still really enjoying it. I'm also really enjoying the fact that I now get home from work around 4:45, as opposed to the 6:30 or seven pm I was used to with my old job. How sweet it is!

This week I also recapped The Bachelorette and did a mini-recap of So You Think You Can Dance over at Cafe Karina.

Also, after a way too long hiatus, Candid Mama is back and has posted a new entry this week, won't you stop by and give her some love?

Finally, I will be helping out on a youth retreat this weekend, so won't be around, but I will have a Photo Hunter post up on Saturday and a little something something on Sunday as well.

Fun Monday next week is being hosted by Karisma, and it looks like a really fun one...I'll definitely be in on that one. Well, it's all "auto-publishing" from here on out, so have a great weekend everyone!

Thursday Thirteen #56 - Workin' 9 To 5

Before we get into Thursday Thirteen, I had a Blog Re-Design Launch Party yesterday, click on over to get your ice cream cake (recipe included) and sign up for the give-aways, won't you?

In case you haven't heard, I started my new job this week as the executive assistant to the president of a local financial organization (yes, I'm being intentionally vague here). I have been a paralegal for the last eleven years, so this is a bit of a career change, but one I am excited about, I was ready for a change.

Anyway, I have received some amazing support from all of you, my awesome readers, during this time of transition in my life, and I know a lot of you are excited for me, and waiting to hear how my first few days at work have been. So, without further ado, here are thirteen "first" impressions" about my new job:

1. My new boss (who from here on out will be known as The CEO here at Candid Karina)? Rocks! I know it's early yet, but from what I've seen so far, he is a genuinely nice guy, and pretty laid back. Just from watching his interaction with other employees the past few days, I can see what kind of leader he is, and I like what I see.

2. My new co-workers? Good grief, there are so many of them, I'll never be able to keep them all straight. I went from The Firm where there were 5 of us, to this place, where just in my location I believe there are about 100 (and we have three other locations).

3. Still, even though it will take me months to learn even half of their names, everyone I've met so far has been absolutely friendly and extremely welcoming.

4. Overall, there is an extremely convivial atmosphere. Everyone seems to enjoy being there and working with one another.

5. I spent the first day helping The CEO prep for the monthly board meeting and think that we will work really well together.

6. I also learned that The CEO is the kind of boss that says "thank you" and "good job", and I'm grateful for that because "The Boss" at The Firm was that type of boss, and I wasn't sure I'd ever be lucky enough to have that type of boss again (they're hard to come by, the appreciative types, aren't they?)

7. My new office? Pretty posh. Well, it's large anyway, and has these great floor to ceiling windows that face one of the main streets in the downtown area. A pretty decent view.

8. I love working in the downtown area. Just in the last two days I've been able to sit outside in a nice little park area and read my book while enjoying some sunshine, and have lunch at a fun little diner with a friend. There is always something going on downtown, and there are so many people to watch, so many new places to eat, and things to see.

9. I know you're all going to ask, so...No, no eye candy/dating prospects that I have seen yet. I know you were thinking it, so I figured I'd just throw it out there.

10. The work itself so far seems interesting but pretty easy and not nearly as stressful as my responsibilities as a paralegal...but it is early yet.

11. My commute? Kick-Ass! It takes me 15 minutes or so to get to and from work. This is a vast improvement over my last job, and I am loving it.

12. What I am also loving are my hours. I now work 8:30 to 4:30 and have been informed that when they say 4:30, they mean it. Today, at around 4:30, the place was pretty much cleared out, everyone was gone. I was used to working way past my "regular" 5:30 clock out time at my old job, so this is a welcome change, for sure.

13. Um...yeah, I don't have a thirteenth...Overall I am just glad that it seems my impressions at the interview stage are proving to be correct, and this seems to be a great place to work, with good people, a great environment, and good perks. I'm looking forward to it.

Thanks to everyone for all their well wishes...as you can see...so far so good!

For a mini-recap of "So You Think You Can Dance" and a recap of Monday Night's episode of "The Bachelorette" (find out how my old college buddy is doing), please stop by Cafe Karina, won't you?

In case you missed it...

I've been a busy busy girl the last week or so. In case you missed it, I went to New York City last weekend, and had a lovely 3 1/2 hour lunch with Frances, another blogger, and told you all about it here.

I also discovered that an old college buddy of mine is one of the bachelors on The Bachelorette. You can read all about that at Cafe Karina this week. Now that American Idol is over (Yay David Cook), I'll be doing Bachelorette recaps, as well as recaps of "So You Think You Can Dance"(once the auditions are over that is) over there as well.

Yesterday I very quickly shared some photos from my visit to St. Patrick's Cathedral in NYC. I didn't really say much about the photos because I was in a bit of a hurry and on my way to a graduation, but my visit to the cathedral was on of my favorite parts of my trip last weekend. There was just this incredible sense of serenity and peace in that big old building. It was beautiful, breathtaking, and I wasn't even really sure where to focus my eye, there was so much to take in. The photos do not do it justice.

I promised my ice cream cake recipe, and you will get that, with photos, but it probably won't be until next week. I'm making the cake sometime this afternoon, but will save the post for next week.

Tomorrow's photo hunter is all about my favorite subject...shoes. You know I've got photos to share for that topic. And Fun Monday is all about our favorite vacations...should be a fun travel experience for all of us.

And...as you can see by the sticky post above, there's a new blog design in the works over here at Candid Karina...we should be live soon...stay tuned.

Just some STUFF (and my connection to a reality tv star)

I spent the morning trying to empty out my "Google Reader", since I had over 200 blog posts to catch up on. I'm sort of all caught up now, although I was feeling a bit overwhelmed and wound up just clearing a lot of them without reading them, so I still feel a bit lost about some of your worlds and goings on. If something major has happened to you in the last week and I haven't commented on it, I apologize...let me know and I'll be sure to respond accordingly! ;-)

My last week of "vacation" is hitting the half-way mark today. I start my new job next Tuesday, and am both excited and nervous. This week has been incredibly busy already, and I have all sorts of plans for the next few days as well, so Tuesday will be here before I know it.

I haven't done a Follow-Up Friday here at Candid Karina in quite a while, and I've also done a pretty lousy job of responding to comments, but I've been paying attention to them. I believe it was Qualcosa Di Bello who requested that I share my Ice Cream Cake recipe on here. I think I'll be making it again for a little get together this Friday, so stay tuned, I'll take photographic evidence as I put it together.

Tomorrow I will share some photos I took in New York City this past weekend.

And I have a new blog design in the works, and if I can ever get around to telling my designer what I think of her samples and working out the last few details (I'm working on it, I swear), that new look should be up VERY soon.

And now you are wondering what the heck I was talking about my connection to a reality tv star, aren't you? Well...to be honest, he's not exactly the "star", but I went to college, and was very close friends with, one of the Bachelors on this season's Bachelorette. Want to know whom? Pop on over to Cafe Karina where I dish all about it. While you're there you can see my recap of the final performances on American Idol, and tonight I'll recap the big Finale show. Starting tomorrow I'll be covering my favorite reality competition, "So You Think You Can Dance" too.

That's all for today, I need to go discuss blog designs, I think! Happy Hump Day Y'all!!

Thursday Thirteen #53 - Hi Ho Hi Ho, It's off to work I go

I swear, I haven't been holding back...well...maybe a little bit, but only because I was saving the news for today's post. So, without further ado...I GOT THE JOB! I am once again among the land of the employed, and it feels good. I want to thank EACH and EVERY one of you for your words of support, positive vibes, prayers, and encouragement during the last few weeks. This time of unemployment, for someone like me, who is self-sufficient and self-dependent could have been a horrible time, but you all made it much more bearable. I think overall I handled this situation pretty well, but it was only AFTER I was offered the job that I realized how truly stressed out about the whole thing I was. Now I can breathe a sigh of relief, and enjoy my next two weeks of vacation, because I don't start my new job until May 27th. Yay me.

So, here are Thirteen Things about my new job:

1. I will be the Executive Assistant to the CEO of a local credit union. I'm not, nor have I ever been, someone who gets hung up on "titles" when it comes to career, but I have to admit that I'm a little bit proud of the fact that I landed a job that is pretty high profile. CandidMama is calling me "Big Shot Jr.", and we're getting a lot of laughs out of it, but I am a little proud of myself. I've worked hard, and it's kind of nice to feel a sense of accomplishment, ya know?

2. The CEO seems to be a genuinely nice guy, very down to earth, and actuall reminds me quite a bit of The Boss at the The Firm. This is a good thing, because I had a fantastic working relationship with The Boss, so I'm hoping it'll be the same with The CEO (I believe for now we'll make that his name here on this blog). When I went in yesterday, for what I thought was a "second interview", it turned out that he just wanted to offer me the job face to face. I think that says something about the kind of place he runs and the kind of guy he is.

3. The organization I will be working for is a fairly large one in terms of credit unions, and they offer fantastic employee benefits and perks. Besides my friend who works in HR (who got me the interview) I know of one other person who works there, and they both love the company. It seems to be a professional but very laid back and convivial atmosphere. While I was sitting there waiting (both times I went in) random folks would walk by and they would all smile, say hello, etc.

4. Yesterday, after being offered the position, CEO introduced me to a few folks and then went to show me my office. He was all excited, it was kind of cute, and upon showing it to me, he said "Go ahead, have a seat, try it on for size". So I sat behind my desk and he was all happy. It was cute. The office itself? Very nice, much larger than the one I had at The Firm, with very large windows overlooking a busy street in the downtown area.

5. Let's talk about the location for a minute. I will be working 5 minutes from my house. With traffic in this city (which is pretty hectic) it'll probably take me closer to 15 to 20 minutes to commute, but that is still about 30 minutes less than I delt with for the old job. I will be, approximately 2 miles from home, however. With gas prices as they are, I'm pretty happy about this. The office is in the downtown area of my hometown, which is a busy, bustling place. Not quite Boston, but good enough for a bit more of a social experience, which I seriously am looking forward to.

6. Parking in the downtown area is quite a commodity, and as one of the employee benefits, the company pays for employee parking in a local garage. However, as an executive member (they called me that, not I), I get my very own gadget to open the gate to the private lot behind the building. I get happy about silly thingslike this, because, well...it's just kind of cool, right?

7. The job responsibilities themselves will range from the usual stuff (fielding phone calls and correspondence for the boss, etc.) to all sorts of projects that he seemed excited I was willing to take on and brainstorm about, etc. The organization is in a growing stage, so there's potential for all sorts of new experiences there, and I'm looking forward to those.

8. There are, I believe he said, about 120 employees at the moment (though that may just be at the one location, I'm not sure), but regardless, I'm going from a place with 5...so that will be quite a change and I can't wait for that.

9. Think of the blog fodder I might have with all those employees and working right in the middle of downtown. So, YOU get something out of the deal too.

10. I realize that this will be a "job" and therefore it won't be all roses and sunshine, and there will be negative aspects at some point, but at the moment, I'm just focusing on the good things, and I really do get a great feeling about it.

11. I feel like this job was tailor made for me. I was looking to get out of the legal profession, but wasn't sure I could afford to do so. I was out feeding the poor when I found out about this opening from my friend. I prayed that the CEO woud be a nice guy, and I genuinely like the guy. I wanted to stay close to home, and not have to go work in Boston, but I kind of wanted the "city" feel of my old Boston jobs, and this is CLOSER to home, but in the city. The whole thing hs just felt right from day one.

12. When I went to The Firm yesterday, after my interview, because I'm still helping out there part time a bit, The Boss came into my office and said "SO?" and when I told him I got the job, he kind of did that "YES!" motion with is body and actually said "YES!". He did his own version of the happy dance for me. I really will miss The Boss, he's a great guy, and genuinely cares for me and was concerned about me and truly happy that I got this job and am happy about it. I get a little emotional thinking about it, because it's not everyone who's lucky enough to have that kind of relatioship with their boss, you know? Plus I feel badly for him that The Firm is in such dire straits. It sucks.

13. That's all I've got on the new job for now, but I'm certain there will be plenty more stories once I start working. For now, I'm going to enjoy my vacation, and thank God I'm once again employed.

So again, thanks everyone for all your prayers and stuff the last few weeks, I have no doubt that they helped me land this gig, and I'm truly appreciative.

Happy Thursday!!!