I recently came across this article about 10 epiphanies you should have by age 40, which was perfect timing with my last year of my thirties laid out ahead of me. (As of today, only nine months to go!) I agree with some and disagree with others, so I wanted to share my thoughts on each of these items.
1. You are not a role.
I definitely agree with this. I don't feel like I fit in any particular definition or stereotype.
2. Your weight is probably your weight.
I also agree with this sentiment, to an extent. Although I did lose the final post-baby pounds, I still fluctuate around a certain range and haven't really lost more since. However, I'm more comfortable with my body and am accepting of how I look at this point in my life. I don't plan to gain back what I lost and don't want to completely make-over my wardrobe for the sake of losing even more weight. I'm happy maintaining what I've worked to achieve.
3. 95% of what other people do has nothing to do with you.
I've always felt that and don't see a need to compare myself to other people. Everyone is at their own pace in life. Do I envy people who get to go on vacations whenever they want? Who doesn't?!? Still, life is not a race.
4. Your body is for you.
Definitely. I'd rather be comfortable than squeeze myself into Spanx or wear extremely uncomfortable shoes just to impress.
5. There's no "the one." By the time you're 40, you've fallen in love and you've fallen out of love and maybe in again. You change and what you want in a partner changes. Someone who was "the one" at 25 might not be anyone you'd want to spend even 30 seconds with at 40. It's okay to let that go and seek out someone new.
Disagree!!! I met my husband when I was 25 and still want to be with him forever.
6. You can get a lot of joy out of being ordinary.
Given I'm content to just read a book, just like a huge chunk of the world's population, I would have to agree with this.
7. The people who show up are your real friends.
Depends on how you define "show up." I can't see some of my closest friends in person all that often, due to distance. I would base this more on how often we communicate or how much of a presence they are in my life in general. I have stopped trying with the friends who can't seem to make any effort in return.
8. There's no algorithm that guarantees a perfect kid, or even a reasonably happy, well-adjusted kid.
For sure. I sometimes worry that I'm screwing up my kids but then everyone tells me how nice and polite they are or how well they're doing in school. I do my best to show them that I love them, but also feel that I need to set boundaries now or I'll pay for it sometime in the future.
9. Friendships are fluid, and sometimes they're site- and time-specific.
I can't say I have every single thing in common with my closest friends. Just like I can't say that I make friends with someone just because we're moms or work together or live on the same street. I have a certain "chemistry" with certain friends and have given up on trying to be someone I'm not to impress anyone else.
10. We are not hiding anything. We all try to put on a good face, to present our best selves. But you know how you can sense that other people are secretly very angry, or depressed, or basically happy but having a rough time right now? They can see the same thing about you. This goes doubly for our kids. Our kids will see us more clearly than we will ever see ourselves, and there's nothing we can do about that.
Should I be scared? I wonder what kind of impression I've been giving off lately....
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
Friday, October 16, 2015
You asked, I answer....
Some bloggers participated in the Sunshine Award, so I have decided to answer their questions, as well. If there are some missing, it means I already answered them in my own Sunshine Award post. (If you were nominated by me and have not yet participated, it's never too late and I'll gladly answer your questions in a future post if you let me know they're up and ready.)
He Said Books or Me
What is the name of a book that has changed your life?
She's Come Undone by Wally Lamb. It just motivated me a lot when I was in college.
What is something about you that makes you unique?
I gave birth to each of my kids in different states.
If you could only eat one food the rest of your life what would it be?
Ice cream! (I'm sure you thought I'd say chocolate, but some ice cream has chocolate pieces in it, so there!)
Do you have a nickname and if so, what is it?
Some people can call me Mel. I used to be called Magenta, but not anymore.
What is your favorite month and why?
October, since it's really the start of autumn. And I love pumpkin flavored things. (I don't do the pumpkin spice lattes, as I don't like coffee.)
Do you remember your dreams?
Yeah. Sometimes I wish I didn't.
What is something everyone likes that you don't like at all?
See my blog post about this.
What is the one (or few) beauty items you cannot live without?
Hair gel. Without it, my hair is insane. I also need conditioner every day. I like having a cover up stick available when I have those annoying little break-outs.
What advice do you have for new bloggers?
Blogging is not a competition. Have fun and make the blog something you're passionate about.
If you had next Monday off, what would you do with it?
By "off," do you mean I have the day completely to myself? If so, I'd go to my favorite thrift store. And then spend a lot of time reading. Also, I'd finally get a haircut!
Hello...Chick Lit
Most embarrassing moment of the year?
Nothing super embarrassing has happened so far, but the year is not over yet. I somewhat want to count when my daughter was talking about private parts really loud in a store. It was funny more than anything else.
What would be your dream job?
Professional reader. :)
What’s the last item you bought as a house decoration?
I don't really buy house decorations all that much. I got some Sukkah decorations recently, like fall-themed stickers and stuff.
Do you collect something? What and what got you started?
Yes. Books. Loving to read ever since I was a kid. :)
How many books do you own?
Too many to count!
What is your favorite holiday and why?
I like a mix of Jewish and secular holidays. For Jewish, I enjoy Purim and Sukkot, as well as Hanukkah. I wrote about them at my book blog. For secular, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Valentine's Day. (Some are more about candy than anything else though.)
What website do you find yourself on more than any other?
Facebook
What concerts have you been to?
Barenaked Ladies (twice, once with Alanis Morissette performing too), Wham, Michael Jackson (Thriller tour), Whitney Houston, New Kids on the Block, Dixie Chicks, Huey Lewis, Harry Connick, Jr.
How did you meet your ‘oldest’ friend and what keeps you friends?
Our moms met in lamaze class. Having our families stay friends. We don't really see each other as often, but when we do, it's always a nice time.
Which social media platform do you use most and why?
Facebook. It's the easiest way for me to stay connected with people. I also do most of the social media stuff for my blogs over there. It's not as complex as Twitter either.
The Book Chick
What is the last book that made you cry?
What is the last book that you've read that you just can't stop recommending?
Come Away with Me by Karma Brown is the answer to both questions.
What is your favourite children's movie?
Annie! (The original version.) I also love most Disney movies. Lately, it's been Wreck-It Ralph.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?
See my basket of trips post from earlier this year.
If you could have a superpower, what would it be?
Teleportation.
Choose from the following- what would you rather have: a maid, a personal chef, a personal trainer or a nanny?
Maid! I have a personal chef already. ;)
What is your favourite ice cream flavour?
Chocolate chip cookie dough.
Where is your favourite place to read?
Anywhere, as long as I have a good book. Really though, the couch in my living room is perfect!
What is your favourite Smartphone app?
Facebook messenger. I also enjoy Shazam for when I don't know what song is playing.
You've won the lottery- what's the first thing that you buy?
A new car!!!
You can have any pet you want- what do you choose?
Probably another beagle.
One Book at a Time
What was your last BIG MONEY purchase?
My family's trip to Disney World in 2013.
What was the best book you read so far this year?
The Ice Cream Queen of Orchard Street by Susan Jane Gilman. It was epic!
What is your favorite season and why?
Autumn. I love that the weather feels just right and the leaves changing color look so beautiful.
If you could be Best Friends with your favorite book character, who would you choose?
Becky Bloomwood from the "Shopaholic" series by Sophie Kinsella.
Do you love to cook, and if so what is your favorite recipe?
I enjoy baking more than cooking. There is a difference, as far as I'm concerned. I love making S'mores Pie as it is delicious. And I also love how my challah turns out. I just need to get around to baking more soon!
Have you ever thought about writing your own book?
Yes, but I can't get myself motivated to write it and the publishing process scares me a bit!
Do you read while you're at work and has your boss ever commented about it?
I read on my lunch break and I don't think my boss really notices one way or the other. Other people at work know how much I love to read and will recommend books or ask me for recommendations.
What is your favorite book genre?
If you don't know by now, then do you really know me at all? ;) (Hint, look to your right on this page and scroll up a bit if you don't see it right away.)
Do you prefer Coke or Pepsi? Or something completely different?
Iced tea! However, we got a Soda Stream and are addicted to that. The soda flavors that go with it are pretty good, especially the root beer.
My own questions
(Four of them were re-used, which I take as a compliment!)
Which TV show just needs to be cancelled already?
The Simpsons. I have a hard time believing anyone still watches this show and I don't know how they haven't completely run out of ideas.
What is your favorite 80s song?
"If You Leave" by OMD takes the top spot, but I really love soooo many songs!
What is something that never fails to make you laugh?
My favorite sitcoms (i.e. The Mindy Project and Modern Family) and inside jokes with my husband.
How long could you go without social media access?
Two or three days (at a time) at the most, and that's just when I'm completely offline for religious holidays (if they go right into Shabbat, it's three days altogether).
If you were to do a TED talk, what would it be about?
Book blogging, of course!
If you could give advice to someone who just graduated college and is ready for the real world, what would it be?
Life is not a race. Do what you feel works best for YOU and don't settle for someone or something, just because you feel pressure from others around you. There is no need to keep up with someone else's life.
What is something you do that you'd like to outsource?
Laundry. I feel like I'm constantly washing, drying, folding, sorting, etc. I sometimes help my kids put their laundry away, but mine tends to sit in a basket until our cleaning service does their monthly visit.
He Said Books or Me
What is the name of a book that has changed your life?
She's Come Undone by Wally Lamb. It just motivated me a lot when I was in college.
What is something about you that makes you unique?
I gave birth to each of my kids in different states.
If you could only eat one food the rest of your life what would it be?
Ice cream! (I'm sure you thought I'd say chocolate, but some ice cream has chocolate pieces in it, so there!)
Do you have a nickname and if so, what is it?
Some people can call me Mel. I used to be called Magenta, but not anymore.
What is your favorite month and why?
October, since it's really the start of autumn. And I love pumpkin flavored things. (I don't do the pumpkin spice lattes, as I don't like coffee.)
Do you remember your dreams?
Yeah. Sometimes I wish I didn't.
What is something everyone likes that you don't like at all?
See my blog post about this.
What is the one (or few) beauty items you cannot live without?
Hair gel. Without it, my hair is insane. I also need conditioner every day. I like having a cover up stick available when I have those annoying little break-outs.
What advice do you have for new bloggers?
Blogging is not a competition. Have fun and make the blog something you're passionate about.
If you had next Monday off, what would you do with it?
By "off," do you mean I have the day completely to myself? If so, I'd go to my favorite thrift store. And then spend a lot of time reading. Also, I'd finally get a haircut!
Hello...Chick Lit
Most embarrassing moment of the year?
Nothing super embarrassing has happened so far, but the year is not over yet. I somewhat want to count when my daughter was talking about private parts really loud in a store. It was funny more than anything else.
What would be your dream job?
Professional reader. :)
What’s the last item you bought as a house decoration?
I don't really buy house decorations all that much. I got some Sukkah decorations recently, like fall-themed stickers and stuff.
Do you collect something? What and what got you started?
Yes. Books. Loving to read ever since I was a kid. :)
How many books do you own?
Too many to count!
 |
| Just a tiny percentage of my collection |
What is your favorite holiday and why?
I like a mix of Jewish and secular holidays. For Jewish, I enjoy Purim and Sukkot, as well as Hanukkah. I wrote about them at my book blog. For secular, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Valentine's Day. (Some are more about candy than anything else though.)
What website do you find yourself on more than any other?
What concerts have you been to?
Barenaked Ladies (twice, once with Alanis Morissette performing too), Wham, Michael Jackson (Thriller tour), Whitney Houston, New Kids on the Block, Dixie Chicks, Huey Lewis, Harry Connick, Jr.
How did you meet your ‘oldest’ friend and what keeps you friends?
Our moms met in lamaze class. Having our families stay friends. We don't really see each other as often, but when we do, it's always a nice time.
Which social media platform do you use most and why?
Facebook. It's the easiest way for me to stay connected with people. I also do most of the social media stuff for my blogs over there. It's not as complex as Twitter either.
The Book Chick
What is the last book that made you cry?
What is the last book that you've read that you just can't stop recommending?
Come Away with Me by Karma Brown is the answer to both questions.
What is your favourite children's movie?
Annie! (The original version.) I also love most Disney movies. Lately, it's been Wreck-It Ralph.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?
See my basket of trips post from earlier this year.
If you could have a superpower, what would it be?
Teleportation.
Choose from the following- what would you rather have: a maid, a personal chef, a personal trainer or a nanny?
Maid! I have a personal chef already. ;)
What is your favourite ice cream flavour?
Chocolate chip cookie dough.
 |
| Still the best version of this flavor! |
Where is your favourite place to read?
Anywhere, as long as I have a good book. Really though, the couch in my living room is perfect!
What is your favourite Smartphone app?
Facebook messenger. I also enjoy Shazam for when I don't know what song is playing.
You've won the lottery- what's the first thing that you buy?
A new car!!!
You can have any pet you want- what do you choose?
Probably another beagle.
 |
| I cannot resist this face! |
One Book at a Time
What was your last BIG MONEY purchase?
My family's trip to Disney World in 2013.
What was the best book you read so far this year?
The Ice Cream Queen of Orchard Street by Susan Jane Gilman. It was epic!
What is your favorite season and why?
Autumn. I love that the weather feels just right and the leaves changing color look so beautiful.
If you could be Best Friends with your favorite book character, who would you choose?
Becky Bloomwood from the "Shopaholic" series by Sophie Kinsella.
Do you love to cook, and if so what is your favorite recipe?
I enjoy baking more than cooking. There is a difference, as far as I'm concerned. I love making S'mores Pie as it is delicious. And I also love how my challah turns out. I just need to get around to baking more soon!
Have you ever thought about writing your own book?
Yes, but I can't get myself motivated to write it and the publishing process scares me a bit!
Do you read while you're at work and has your boss ever commented about it?
I read on my lunch break and I don't think my boss really notices one way or the other. Other people at work know how much I love to read and will recommend books or ask me for recommendations.
What is your favorite book genre?
If you don't know by now, then do you really know me at all? ;) (Hint, look to your right on this page and scroll up a bit if you don't see it right away.)
Do you prefer Coke or Pepsi? Or something completely different?
Iced tea! However, we got a Soda Stream and are addicted to that. The soda flavors that go with it are pretty good, especially the root beer.
My own questions
(Four of them were re-used, which I take as a compliment!)
Which TV show just needs to be cancelled already?
The Simpsons. I have a hard time believing anyone still watches this show and I don't know how they haven't completely run out of ideas.
What is your favorite 80s song?
"If You Leave" by OMD takes the top spot, but I really love soooo many songs!
What is something that never fails to make you laugh?
My favorite sitcoms (i.e. The Mindy Project and Modern Family) and inside jokes with my husband.
How long could you go without social media access?
Two or three days (at a time) at the most, and that's just when I'm completely offline for religious holidays (if they go right into Shabbat, it's three days altogether).
If you were to do a TED talk, what would it be about?
Book blogging, of course!
If you could give advice to someone who just graduated college and is ready for the real world, what would it be?
Life is not a race. Do what you feel works best for YOU and don't settle for someone or something, just because you feel pressure from others around you. There is no need to keep up with someone else's life.
What is something you do that you'd like to outsource?
Laundry. I feel like I'm constantly washing, drying, folding, sorting, etc. I sometimes help my kids put their laundry away, but mine tends to sit in a basket until our cleaning service does their monthly visit.
 |
| My basket is overflowing! |
Thursday, October 15, 2015
Feeding my inner child
Blog Project 3.0 has been going on for about two years, even though one of the group members changed after a few months. I love blogging with this group and I hope we can continue to inspire each other.
This week, I chose the topic: Nostalgia
First, read what everyone else had to share on this topic. I will be only posting links to posts on this same topic from my group. So check back if you were hoping to read their blogs and don't see a link yet.
Darwin Shrugged
Froggie
Moma Rock
I was inspired to choose this topic after hearing that Ed Debevic's, one of my favorite restaurants from my youth, is closing its iconic Chicago location. I know they're looking for a new location, but still...there was something about driving on Wells Street and just seeing it there. It was bad enough that the location in Deerfield shut down to become a Greek restaurant a long time ago. My family and I used to go to that location all the time. Still, the first time I went to Ed's was in Chicago and the waitress' name was Minnie, but my dad called her "Pot Pie" because she showed the special of the day on her shirt, right by her name tag. Oh, and we mustn't forget the World's Smallest Sundae!
In any case, Ed's was all about nostalgia. It used to be a throwback to the 1950s, but later started to encompass the 60s-80s. (And no, the 80s is not "oldies" for me, nor will it ever be!!!!)
Since I do like talking about nostalgia a lot, there are so many directions it could go. In honor of Ed Debevic's, I'm going to talk about favorite foods from my youth. Before I do, there are some other restaurants I want to mention. First of all, I love this page called Craig's Lost Chicago. It shows all these restaurants that are no longer around. I remember a bunch from my youth. I was also thinking about Farrell's, where we'd go on special occasions. They had this candy shop in the front of the restaurant. When they brought dessert out for a birthday or whatever, they'd put a sparkler on it and bang a drum. And then there was Wizard's, which made what Dairy Queen calls the "Blizzard." But that came after Wizard's started doing it. It was in a few malls and definitely a special treat after enduring a boring shopping trip. :) Speaking of malls, I used to always go to One-Potato-Two whenever I visited the food court. I loved their baked potato smothered in melted cheddar cheese.
*Rondos and Bon Bons: Bite size pieces of chocolate covered ice cream that were just so good. I remember getting Rondos on an airplane for dessert and was so excited because I loved them that much!
*Daiquiri Ice and Miami Ice: Some sherbet flavors I really enjoyed at Baskin Robbins. I think Miami Ice was only around for a short time in honor of Miami Vice.
*Peanut Butter Boppers: Logs of peanut butter covered with nuts and crisp rice. Some had chocolate in them too. I used to eat these every day with a cup of hot cocoa while watching Double Dare.
*Zeltzer Seltzer and New York Seltzer: For some reason, Sound Warehouse (a record store in the 80s) would sell Zeltzer Seltzer. It was just really good flavored seltzer water. New York Seltzer came around after Zeltzer was discontinued, but it wasn't the same.
*Pan fried Cantonese noodles: I can't seem to find these at a Kosher Chinese restaurant, so they are a thing of the past for me. I got them all the time at the Chinese restaurant where I worked for a few years. They were soooo good and I miss them.
*Planter's chocolate crisps: They were these little cookies that were shaped like peanuts and had chocolate filling. Apparently, they've been discontinued since 1995. They were so addictive.
*Chewels gum: These pieces of gum had this flavor burst inside once you bit into them. Like a liquid would come out.
*Ranch Ruffles: I loved these in seventh or eighth grade. I don't know why they stopped making them.
*Little ice cream cones with marshmallow topping: They used to be a treat that I'd get in goody bags at birthday parties. Later, I'd just buy them at Phar-Mor and go through a whole package easily.
*Push-Ups: The first time I had an Amaretto Stone Sour, it tasted like an orange Push-Up. It's amazing I didn't get drunk that night!
This week, I chose the topic: Nostalgia
First, read what everyone else had to share on this topic. I will be only posting links to posts on this same topic from my group. So check back if you were hoping to read their blogs and don't see a link yet.
Darwin Shrugged
Froggie
Moma Rock
I was inspired to choose this topic after hearing that Ed Debevic's, one of my favorite restaurants from my youth, is closing its iconic Chicago location. I know they're looking for a new location, but still...there was something about driving on Wells Street and just seeing it there. It was bad enough that the location in Deerfield shut down to become a Greek restaurant a long time ago. My family and I used to go to that location all the time. Still, the first time I went to Ed's was in Chicago and the waitress' name was Minnie, but my dad called her "Pot Pie" because she showed the special of the day on her shirt, right by her name tag. Oh, and we mustn't forget the World's Smallest Sundae!
 |
| My 11th birthday party at Ed's |
Since I do like talking about nostalgia a lot, there are so many directions it could go. In honor of Ed Debevic's, I'm going to talk about favorite foods from my youth. Before I do, there are some other restaurants I want to mention. First of all, I love this page called Craig's Lost Chicago. It shows all these restaurants that are no longer around. I remember a bunch from my youth. I was also thinking about Farrell's, where we'd go on special occasions. They had this candy shop in the front of the restaurant. When they brought dessert out for a birthday or whatever, they'd put a sparkler on it and bang a drum. And then there was Wizard's, which made what Dairy Queen calls the "Blizzard." But that came after Wizard's started doing it. It was in a few malls and definitely a special treat after enduring a boring shopping trip. :) Speaking of malls, I used to always go to One-Potato-Two whenever I visited the food court. I loved their baked potato smothered in melted cheddar cheese.
*Rondos and Bon Bons: Bite size pieces of chocolate covered ice cream that were just so good. I remember getting Rondos on an airplane for dessert and was so excited because I loved them that much!
*Daiquiri Ice and Miami Ice: Some sherbet flavors I really enjoyed at Baskin Robbins. I think Miami Ice was only around for a short time in honor of Miami Vice.
*Peanut Butter Boppers: Logs of peanut butter covered with nuts and crisp rice. Some had chocolate in them too. I used to eat these every day with a cup of hot cocoa while watching Double Dare.
*Zeltzer Seltzer and New York Seltzer: For some reason, Sound Warehouse (a record store in the 80s) would sell Zeltzer Seltzer. It was just really good flavored seltzer water. New York Seltzer came around after Zeltzer was discontinued, but it wasn't the same.
*Pan fried Cantonese noodles: I can't seem to find these at a Kosher Chinese restaurant, so they are a thing of the past for me. I got them all the time at the Chinese restaurant where I worked for a few years. They were soooo good and I miss them.
*Planter's chocolate crisps: They were these little cookies that were shaped like peanuts and had chocolate filling. Apparently, they've been discontinued since 1995. They were so addictive.
*Chewels gum: These pieces of gum had this flavor burst inside once you bit into them. Like a liquid would come out.
*Ranch Ruffles: I loved these in seventh or eighth grade. I don't know why they stopped making them.
*Little ice cream cones with marshmallow topping: They used to be a treat that I'd get in goody bags at birthday parties. Later, I'd just buy them at Phar-Mor and go through a whole package easily.
*Push-Ups: The first time I had an Amaretto Stone Sour, it tasted like an orange Push-Up. It's amazing I didn't get drunk that night!
*Sara Lee lasagna: Before I kept Kosher, I loved Sara Lee's meat lasagna. It just tasted so incredible. We lived by a Sara Lee outlet store and would get it all the time.
I know this is only a handful of items. I was looking through food nostalgia posts online for others to see what I missed. A lot of the same things kept coming up. There were some crazy cereals that I apparently missed out on as a kid. I did enjoy Smurf Berry Crunch though. What Smurfs fan would I be otherwise?!? In any case, there are a lot of foods that anyone could become nostalgic over, but I just wanted to talk about the stuff I really enjoyed and miss now.
What foods make YOU nostalgic? I'd love to hear about them in the comments section.
Friday, October 9, 2015
The "Sunshine" of my life
Thanks to Military Wife and Pug Life for nominating me (along with all her other blogger friends) for this fun award. I love Military Wife's blog and we have a lot in common.
Here are the rules:
1) Thank the person who nominated you. **See above.**
2) Share 11 random facts about yourself by answering the nominating blogger's questions.
3) Nominate 11 more bloggers and ask them 11 random questions.
1) What is your favorite fast food meal?
I don't get fast food much in the Kosher world, but there is a quasi-fast food Kosher place by us where I like to get burgers or fried chicken sometimes. Prior to keeping Kosher, a double cheeseburger and fries from Wendy's, followed by a Frosty.
2) What is the nicest thing anyone has ever done for you?
A lot of people have done nice things for me. Some that recently stand out...last year, a friend changed around her birthday plans so I could attend, as I wasn't available the night she originally wanted to go out. Also, my BFF brought over grape juice, challah, and candles so I could do some Shabbat rituals while sitting shiva for my grandma this past summer.
3) If you could have a free round trip ticket to anywhere, where would you go?
Australia.
4) What was your worst first date and why?
I blogged about it here.
5) What is your weirdest habit?
I sing all the time around the house.
6) If you knew you were losing your hearing tomorrow, what would you spend today listening to?
My husband and kids making me laugh, as well as their laughter. And then some of my favorite Broadway soundtracks if there's time left over.
7) Which three famous people would you like to invite to a private dinner party?
Mindy Kaling, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Tatiana Maslany.
8) What was the last movie that made you cry?
Cinderella (the 2015 version). The same parts get to me every time.
9) Who would play your husband/wife or significant other in the movie of his/her life?
Jason Segel
10) What is your greatest strength?
Remembering lots of random details about people and their interests.
11) Quick, name three things you never leave your home without.
Cell phone, keys, purse
Nominations (Going with some other book bloggers I know):
1. He Said Books or Me
2. Hello...Chick Lit
3. Book Perfume
4. The Book Chick
5. Books, Chocolate, and Wine
6. One Book at a Time
7. Traveling with T
8. Books I Think You Should Read
9. Always with a Book
10. Books Etc.
11. Mrs. Mommy Booknerd
Questions:
1. Which TV show just needs to be cancelled already?
2. What is your favorite 80s song?
3. What is something that never fails to make you laugh?
4. How long could you go without social media access?
5. If you were to do a TED talk, what would it be about?
6. What is your favorite month and why?
7. If you could give advice to someone who just graduated college and is ready for the real world, what would it be?
8. What is something everyone likes that you don't like at all?
9. What is the last book you read that you can't stop recommending?
10. What is something unique about yourself?
11. What is something you do that you'd like to outsource?
Thursday, October 8, 2015
Zork!
Blog Project 3.0 has been going on for about two years, even though one of the group members changed after a few months. I love blogging with this group and I hope we can continue to inspire each other.
This week, Moma Rock chose the topic: Creative writing
First, read what everyone else had to share on this topic. I will be only posting links to posts on this same topic from my group. So check back if you were hoping to read their blogs and don't see a link yet.
Darwin Shrugged
Froggie
Moma Rock
At this point in time, I've just gotten through four weeks of various religious holidays and am currently lacking the motivation to write anything creative at the moment. That, and reading some amazing books that set the bar way high when it comes to writing anything at all. However, I have some special guests (also known as my sons), who are going to flex their creative muscles for everyone today.
The Lost Alien
Once upon a galaxy, there was an alien who lived on planet Zorkanog. On Zorkanog, everybody's name is Zork. All Zorks have sensitive feelings.
One day, Zork built a huge U.F.O.. Zork went to planet Earth along with two friends, Zork and Zork. They went to a state on planet Earth called Texas.
When the U.F.O. crashed onto the surface of Texas, Zork saw a shack a mile away with his super vision. With their super speed, the Zorks dashed to the shack. Zork ran into the shack and the other Zorks came in after Zork. Zork saw these humans with crazy hats. The crazy hatted people didn't like noticing unidentified creatures so they kicked all three Zorks out of the shack. When Zork turned back, the shack disappeared. Zork got upset so he started crying and running away. What Zork didn't notice was that super speed was making Zork farther away from Zork and Zork.
Zork ran out of energy because of running and crying, so Zork settled down on a rock and the sand. Zork fell asleep for a few hours and when Zork woke up, it was midnight. The moon and the stars were shining brightly in the nighttime sky. When Zork thought all hope was lost, Zork saw a glowing path and a shimmering path. Zork didn't know what to do but luckily for his super vision, Zork was able to see what was at the end of the path. Past the glowing path, he couldn't see because it was too dark. At the shimmering path, he could make out two figures that were aqua green. It was the two other Zorks! Zork couldn't bear to be without his friends. Zork was so relieved that a burst of energy went right through the alien. Zork used his super speed to zoom all the way to his friends.
All three Zorks eventually found their U.F.O and went back to Zorkanog and every Zork ended up being back on Zorkanog except another Zork, but that's a story for next time.
You can find my previous creative writing work here. I need a kick in the pants to get writing again, so if you have some general topic ideas I could do some short fiction pieces about, please feel free to leave them in the comments.
And if you want more "Zork" stories, my sons will gladly provide those for you.
This week, Moma Rock chose the topic: Creative writing
First, read what everyone else had to share on this topic. I will be only posting links to posts on this same topic from my group. So check back if you were hoping to read their blogs and don't see a link yet.
Darwin Shrugged
Froggie
Moma Rock
The Lost Alien
Once upon a galaxy, there was an alien who lived on planet Zorkanog. On Zorkanog, everybody's name is Zork. All Zorks have sensitive feelings.
One day, Zork built a huge U.F.O.. Zork went to planet Earth along with two friends, Zork and Zork. They went to a state on planet Earth called Texas.
When the U.F.O. crashed onto the surface of Texas, Zork saw a shack a mile away with his super vision. With their super speed, the Zorks dashed to the shack. Zork ran into the shack and the other Zorks came in after Zork. Zork saw these humans with crazy hats. The crazy hatted people didn't like noticing unidentified creatures so they kicked all three Zorks out of the shack. When Zork turned back, the shack disappeared. Zork got upset so he started crying and running away. What Zork didn't notice was that super speed was making Zork farther away from Zork and Zork.
Zork ran out of energy because of running and crying, so Zork settled down on a rock and the sand. Zork fell asleep for a few hours and when Zork woke up, it was midnight. The moon and the stars were shining brightly in the nighttime sky. When Zork thought all hope was lost, Zork saw a glowing path and a shimmering path. Zork didn't know what to do but luckily for his super vision, Zork was able to see what was at the end of the path. Past the glowing path, he couldn't see because it was too dark. At the shimmering path, he could make out two figures that were aqua green. It was the two other Zorks! Zork couldn't bear to be without his friends. Zork was so relieved that a burst of energy went right through the alien. Zork used his super speed to zoom all the way to his friends.
All three Zorks eventually found their U.F.O and went back to Zorkanog and every Zork ended up being back on Zorkanog except another Zork, but that's a story for next time.
You can find my previous creative writing work here. I need a kick in the pants to get writing again, so if you have some general topic ideas I could do some short fiction pieces about, please feel free to leave them in the comments.
And if you want more "Zork" stories, my sons will gladly provide those for you.
Thursday, October 1, 2015
The Doctor is (not currently) in
Blog Project 3.0 has been going on for about two years, even though one of the group members changed after a few months. I love blogging with this group and I hope we can continue to inspire each other.
This week, Darwin Shrugged chose the topic: Let's write about missed callings. Talk about about those jobs or paths you now realize might have been good choices, and why.
First, read what everyone else had to share on this topic. I will be only posting links to posts on this same topic from my group. So check back if you were hoping to read their blogs and don't see a link yet.
Darwin Shrugged
Froggie
When I was in college, I started off in a special ed major before switching to psychology. However, after five years of college, I didn't want to be in school anymore and decided not to go to grad school for a counseling degree. Years later, I considered grad school, but I wasn't in the right place in my life to commit to it, as I wanted to start having kids. Therefore, I sometimes wonder if I would have made a good counselor or even a psychologist, if I had stuck on the path toward getting my Masters degree.
The thing is, I am good at counseling, so-to-speak. I am one of those people that others go to when they need a listening ear or some advice. During the summer of the year I got married, a close friend had a falling out with one of her friends. (I was in the same boat at the time, so I knew how she felt.) Anyway, she came over one night trying to figure out where and how things went wrong. I just listened to her and then gave her some advice that was more about focusing on herself and her own needs, as she rarely ever did that. After that time, she became more confident and a few years later, she met her husband. I don't know if I have anything to do with all of that, but I could definitely see a change once I suggested to her to take care of herself.
I also am the voice of reason and try to make people feel better about decisions (whether those are from my end or theirs). When my husband has a lot on his mind, I'm able to help him put things into perspective and then he feels less overwhelmed.
I've been told that the key to being a good counselor is having gone through counseling yourself. I will admit that I have sought counseling when I was in college. I had some legitimate reasons for doing so and felt it helped in some ways. I did both group and individual counseling at various times. The group counseling wasn't as effective, but I really liked the woman I saw for individual counseling. She was a graduate student at the time and I hope she has had a successful career since then. She's the kind of counselor I would have aspired to be like, had I stayed on this path.
Will I ever get back onto this path? I guess time will tell. I enjoy where I work and don't have the time or patience for graduate school right now. Maybe when my kids are older? Who knows? If it's meant to happen somewhere down the road, I'm sure it will.
The whole topic of psychology and counseling makes me think of this song from You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown. Enjoy!
This week, Darwin Shrugged chose the topic: Let's write about missed callings. Talk about about those jobs or paths you now realize might have been good choices, and why.
First, read what everyone else had to share on this topic. I will be only posting links to posts on this same topic from my group. So check back if you were hoping to read their blogs and don't see a link yet.
Darwin Shrugged
Froggie
When I was in college, I started off in a special ed major before switching to psychology. However, after five years of college, I didn't want to be in school anymore and decided not to go to grad school for a counseling degree. Years later, I considered grad school, but I wasn't in the right place in my life to commit to it, as I wanted to start having kids. Therefore, I sometimes wonder if I would have made a good counselor or even a psychologist, if I had stuck on the path toward getting my Masters degree.
The thing is, I am good at counseling, so-to-speak. I am one of those people that others go to when they need a listening ear or some advice. During the summer of the year I got married, a close friend had a falling out with one of her friends. (I was in the same boat at the time, so I knew how she felt.) Anyway, she came over one night trying to figure out where and how things went wrong. I just listened to her and then gave her some advice that was more about focusing on herself and her own needs, as she rarely ever did that. After that time, she became more confident and a few years later, she met her husband. I don't know if I have anything to do with all of that, but I could definitely see a change once I suggested to her to take care of herself.
I also am the voice of reason and try to make people feel better about decisions (whether those are from my end or theirs). When my husband has a lot on his mind, I'm able to help him put things into perspective and then he feels less overwhelmed.
I've been told that the key to being a good counselor is having gone through counseling yourself. I will admit that I have sought counseling when I was in college. I had some legitimate reasons for doing so and felt it helped in some ways. I did both group and individual counseling at various times. The group counseling wasn't as effective, but I really liked the woman I saw for individual counseling. She was a graduate student at the time and I hope she has had a successful career since then. She's the kind of counselor I would have aspired to be like, had I stayed on this path.
Will I ever get back onto this path? I guess time will tell. I enjoy where I work and don't have the time or patience for graduate school right now. Maybe when my kids are older? Who knows? If it's meant to happen somewhere down the road, I'm sure it will.
The whole topic of psychology and counseling makes me think of this song from You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown. Enjoy!
Thursday, September 24, 2015
Pure imagination
Did you miss us? Blog Project 3.0 was on hiatus for a few months, but now we're back! This group has been going on for about two years, even though one of the group members changed after a few months. I love blogging with this group and I hope we can continue to inspire each other.
This week, Froggie chose the topic: I would have never imagined...
First, read what everyone else had to share on this topic. I will be only posting links to posts on this same topic from my group. So check back if you were hoping to read their blogs and don't see a link yet.
Darwin Shrugged
Froggie
Moma Rock
I would have never imagined...
*That we would reach the year that Back to the Future II took place. See what they got wrong about this year. Then see what they got right.
*That more than half my life has been spent on the Internet. (Do the math...)
*That I would live in a different state from the one I grew up in.
*That I'd be less than a year away from the big 4-0 and that this age wouldn't feel as old as it seemed when I was a kid.
*That my book blog would do so well over the course of five years, or that I'd be overwhelmed by my book collection...
*That someone I completely despise can share a birthday with someone I completely love.
*That I'd be at the same job for almost six years. Goes beyond my three-years-at-the-most average.
*That Betty White would outlast all the other Golden Girls. I love Betty, but I really was expecting Rue or Estelle to live the longest. (Sorry, Bea!)
*That I'd be listening to a hip-hop and rap musical about Alexander Hamilton, written by the creator of In the Heights.
*That I could go to a restaurant where people leave their laptops and cell phones unattended, but someone would rather steal my magazine.
*That the music I grew up with would be grouped into the "oldies" category. Sorry, but Madonna and Michael Jackson do not belong in the same category as Elvis and The Beatles.
*That I'd be a mom for a decade.
*That I'd go from spending Yom Kippur afternoon at McDonald's when I was a kid to spending most of it at Shul as an adult. (Need more of an explanation for this one? Look no further.)
*That I'd finally lose the post-pregnancy weight after three years. I was looking at pictures from early 2014 and now and can definitely see a difference.
*That I'd cave into purchasing a Kindle. It kept me company during the long wait for an oil change earlier this week. Not that I couldn't have brought a paperback, but it's nice to not have my e-reader tied to my computer!
This week, Froggie chose the topic: I would have never imagined...
First, read what everyone else had to share on this topic. I will be only posting links to posts on this same topic from my group. So check back if you were hoping to read their blogs and don't see a link yet.
Darwin Shrugged
Froggie
Moma Rock
This topic requires a list.
I would have never imagined...
*That we would reach the year that Back to the Future II took place. See what they got wrong about this year. Then see what they got right.
*That more than half my life has been spent on the Internet. (Do the math...)
*That I would live in a different state from the one I grew up in.
*That I'd be less than a year away from the big 4-0 and that this age wouldn't feel as old as it seemed when I was a kid.
*That my book blog would do so well over the course of five years, or that I'd be overwhelmed by my book collection...
*That someone I completely despise can share a birthday with someone I completely love.
*That I'd be at the same job for almost six years. Goes beyond my three-years-at-the-most average.
*That Betty White would outlast all the other Golden Girls. I love Betty, but I really was expecting Rue or Estelle to live the longest. (Sorry, Bea!)
*That I'd be listening to a hip-hop and rap musical about Alexander Hamilton, written by the creator of In the Heights.
*That I could go to a restaurant where people leave their laptops and cell phones unattended, but someone would rather steal my magazine.
*That the music I grew up with would be grouped into the "oldies" category. Sorry, but Madonna and Michael Jackson do not belong in the same category as Elvis and The Beatles.
*That I'd be a mom for a decade.
*That I'd go from spending Yom Kippur afternoon at McDonald's when I was a kid to spending most of it at Shul as an adult. (Need more of an explanation for this one? Look no further.)
*That I'd finally lose the post-pregnancy weight after three years. I was looking at pictures from early 2014 and now and can definitely see a difference.
*That I'd cave into purchasing a Kindle. It kept me company during the long wait for an oil change earlier this week. Not that I couldn't have brought a paperback, but it's nice to not have my e-reader tied to my computer!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
