I've been blogging with three fabulous women for over two years and have been enjoying all the fun topics we come up with week after week. If you want to see what we've discussed in the past, check out our posts here.
This week, I chose the topic. Given that it's 4th of July, I came up with something appropriate: Talk about something with the word "America" in it.
Before reading ahead, first see what everyone else had to say on this topic:
Froggie
Mom of Many
Moma Rock
When I think of the word “America,” many different things come to mind, but the first is American Idol. I watched the show on and off through various seasons. Sometimes I’d just watch the season finale and other times I would watch every episode and damned be anyone who interrupted me during that hour. I caught the tail end of season one and strangely found myself rooting for Justin Guarini (it was the curls that got to me…and maybe the August heat in Vegas did something to my mind). I lost interest for seasons TWO-SIX aside from finale episodes. (Thankfully, I had my sister to keep me updated on the latest "Idol" gossip.)
Then season SEVEN came along while I was pregnant with my younger son. I couldn’t tear myself away from the TV, starting with watching all the auditions and getting caught up in the lives of the contestants. I liked Brooke White and Michael Johns, but neither made it to the finale. I can’t even remember who came in third place without looking it up. (Which I’m too lazy to do at this time.) I just remember rooting for David Cook and being thrilled that he won. I even got his CD when it came out and listened to it all the time.
When season EIGHT started, there was no doubt in my mind that I’d be addicted again. This was probably the best season and all because of Adam Lambert, whom I didn’t even like in the beginning. His rendition of “Mad, Mad World” changed all that and I was obsessed with him afterward. My crazy cougar crush went beyond the finale (when I was freaking out about him coming in second) to listening to his CD over and over….and over again. I still don’t get how Kris Allen won that season, but it doesn’t sound like his career has taken off either. While my crush on Adam Lambert has faded, I still enjoy listening to his music.
I watched season NINE in hopes that it would still be good, but it lost its luster for me in comparison with season 8. I think I only liked two people and only one of them made it to the top 3. Siobhan Magnus had a cool voice and an interesting personality to go along with it. I felt bad watching her strike out after a while. Casey James was the most attractive of all the guys from that season and I love that he sang country music. I know he has a country album out and I like “Crying on a Suitcase.” After Lee DeWyze won, I lost interest in American Idol altogether. I wasn’t that impressed by him and the only thing that stood out was he grew up in a suburb close to where I grew up. Also, Simon Cowell was leaving and I loved his snarkiness. The show would not be the same without him. I didn’t really have the attention span for it going forward, as I had another baby and my book blog to focus on the following year.
For now, I’ll just talk about the American Idol contestants I like the most, aside from who I mentioned already.
Kelly Clarkson: This is just a given. She has really developed her talent and become even “Stronger” over the past 11 years since she won the first season. I enjoy listening to her sing and get her songs in my head a lot.
Jennifer Hudson: She showed those people who didn’t vote for her by winning an OSCAR! And she truly deserved it too. (Just watch Dreamgirls if you don’t believe me.)
Katharine McPhee: I didn’t pay much attention to her after she came in second in season FIVE, but she was fabulous in Smash and I hope she goes on to become a Broadway performer.
Carrie Underwood: Given I’m a country music fan, I get to listen to her amazing voice all the time. Her first two CDs are the best though. There’s a song on her first CD that is not on the radio, but I love it. It’s called “I Ain’t in Checotah.”
Danny Gokey: I think he’s doing some country music, but nothing I can remember at the moment. I just know that he had a great voice on season 8 and I was glad he made it as far as third place.
I know American Idol has produced more talent since I stopped watching it, but I don’t make the associations with the show like I have in the past. I wonder how long it will stay on the air though. There are so many other talent shows out there these days and I read an article in Entertainment Weekly that some changes need to be made if it wants to keep the amount of viewers it currently has.
Have a happy 4th of July!
Thursday, July 4, 2013
Wednesday, July 3, 2013
52 Stories: Keeping the faith
Inspired by One Hundred Names by Cecelia Ahern, I've decided to ask people some thought provoking questions about themselves, as I feel that everyone has a story to tell. If you're just joining me on this journey today, please check out the previous posts from this series, as well.
I met this storyteller online shortly after we had our firstborn sons. Turns out, they had the same birthday. We didn't live too far from each other at the time, so we met up in person one time. Since then, we haven't had a chance to hang out again but we've e-mailed each other and stayed in contact through Facebook. She's really sweet and I admire how open she is about her religion and faith. I hope you will enjoy getting to know her, as well!
Name you'd like to go by: Blueyes7
Age: 32
Gender: Female
Location: Illinois
What is an experience that is legendary for you?
I know it's completely cliche, but becoming a Mom. It was the most intense, but most beautiful moments in my life. Holding those littles for the first time and knowing they were mine.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Starbucks Caramel Frappuccino. It's expensive for coffee, but it tastes SOOOOO good! It's like little caramel snowflakes dancing on my tongue!
What is something you've never done but you would like to do?
Swim with sharks. It's actually one of those dreams that I want to do before I die. My hubby says it will be the last thing I do, since the sharks will eat me, but I think it would be amazing!
If you could give someone one of your favorite things as a gift, what would it be and why?
My Bible. I would give it to someone who was looking to learn more about my faith.
What is something you did that changed someone's life?
I said, "I have something to tell you! Guess what?"
What part of your personality is now extinct?
"The Party Girl". She's gone!! I used be stay up all night, go out drinking, smoking and other shenanigans, dance the night and wee morning hours away, and still be up and at 'em the next day. Now, I'm happy to sit in front of the TV with the hubs, vegging out to a good mystery show or movie.
What is one thing that you find really funny?
Pretty much anything on Buzzfeed.
Tell me one thing you love about yourself (or a gift you'd like to get yourself, where money is not an issue):
If I could get a gift for myself, if money wasn't an object... It would be a mini-vacation away somewhere tropical with JUST my hubs. I would be pampered with amazing massages, mani/pedis, sitting by the beach, and amazing chef prepared dinners & moonlit walks on the beach.
What TV show, book or movie is most like your life?
Everyone who has seen Glee says that it is my HS experience. I have yet to jump on the bandwagon. I know, I know... Silly me. Honestly, I relate to anything with a strong female lead! :)
What is something that not many people know about you?
I'm shy sometimes. It's hard for me when I'm in new situations meeting new people. I get a little anxious, and it takes a while for me to warm up, but once I know people, I'm able to let loose & let people see the real me.
I met this storyteller online shortly after we had our firstborn sons. Turns out, they had the same birthday. We didn't live too far from each other at the time, so we met up in person one time. Since then, we haven't had a chance to hang out again but we've e-mailed each other and stayed in contact through Facebook. She's really sweet and I admire how open she is about her religion and faith. I hope you will enjoy getting to know her, as well!
Name you'd like to go by: Blueyes7
Age: 32
Gender: Female
Location: Illinois
What is an experience that is legendary for you?
I know it's completely cliche, but becoming a Mom. It was the most intense, but most beautiful moments in my life. Holding those littles for the first time and knowing they were mine.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Starbucks Caramel Frappuccino. It's expensive for coffee, but it tastes SOOOOO good! It's like little caramel snowflakes dancing on my tongue!
What is something you've never done but you would like to do?
Swim with sharks. It's actually one of those dreams that I want to do before I die. My hubby says it will be the last thing I do, since the sharks will eat me, but I think it would be amazing!
If you could give someone one of your favorite things as a gift, what would it be and why?
My Bible. I would give it to someone who was looking to learn more about my faith.
What is something you did that changed someone's life?
I said, "I have something to tell you! Guess what?"
What part of your personality is now extinct?
"The Party Girl". She's gone!! I used be stay up all night, go out drinking, smoking and other shenanigans, dance the night and wee morning hours away, and still be up and at 'em the next day. Now, I'm happy to sit in front of the TV with the hubs, vegging out to a good mystery show or movie.
What is one thing that you find really funny?
Pretty much anything on Buzzfeed.
Tell me one thing you love about yourself (or a gift you'd like to get yourself, where money is not an issue):
If I could get a gift for myself, if money wasn't an object... It would be a mini-vacation away somewhere tropical with JUST my hubs. I would be pampered with amazing massages, mani/pedis, sitting by the beach, and amazing chef prepared dinners & moonlit walks on the beach.
What TV show, book or movie is most like your life?
Everyone who has seen Glee says that it is my HS experience. I have yet to jump on the bandwagon. I know, I know... Silly me. Honestly, I relate to anything with a strong female lead! :)
What is something that not many people know about you?
I'm shy sometimes. It's hard for me when I'm in new situations meeting new people. I get a little anxious, and it takes a while for me to warm up, but once I know people, I'm able to let loose & let people see the real me.
Friday, June 28, 2013
Someone else's life
I've been blogging with three fabulous women for over two years and have been enjoying all the fun topics we come up with week after week. If you want to see what we've discussed in the past, check out our posts here.
This week, Moma Rock chose the topic: Trade places with someone for a day. Tell us what it was like to be in their shoes, to view the world through their eyes. Did you learn something from the experience?
Before reading ahead, first see what everyone else had to say on this topic:
Froggie
Mom of Many
Moma Rock
For this project, I chose my mom. I thought it would be fun to see what life is like through the eyes of someone in my family and I asked my parents and sister. My mom (bravely) volunteered and I sent her some questions. While her answers are succinct, they are revealing.
What is the first thing you usually think about when you wake up?
I think about the day ahead.
What are you thinking on your drive to and/or from work?
When I come home from work I think about making dinner and relaxing from a hard day.
What is your typical day like from when you get up to when you go to bed?
Hectic
How do you deal with changes to your daily routine?
Not well at all.
Would you rather be at work or have days with nothing on your schedule?
Days of nothing to do at all.
What do you look forward to most during the day?
Going home from work at the end of the day.
What is your favorite way to relax after work?
Sit on the couch, watch TV and pet the dog.
What chore/errand is your least favorite?
Take out the garbage.
What is the last thing you usually think about before going to sleep?
What I have to do tomorrow.
What would you like to accomplish by this time next year?
Be retired and have more time to do nothing.
When I was a kid, I remember my mom working part-time so she could be home for us when we got home from school. There were periods of time when she worked full-time and made other arrangements for us. However, the amount of time she was around definitely stands out. She'd have an after school snack waiting and was so nice to our friends when they came over. I also know that she wasn't always an X-Ray technician, even though she has been one for the majority of her life. During my youth, she was a receptionist for a while. I was impressed that she went back into the X-Ray field after her thumb injury, but times had changed and the equipment was safer. I also know that she's worked for many different medical facilities, the longest amount of time being at her current facility. I've heard both the good and bad things about her job between the friends she's made and all the politics that go on, even within a medical office. The free food from drug reps sound like a nice perk. She also gets days off during the week, even with the long days she has to work otherwise. I wish she had revealed more about what an actual day in her life is like, but I can relate to the hectic part. I also don't like getting thrown off from my routine. I think she's become completely burnt out by her job though and I hope she'll enjoy her "nothing" filled days once she gets to retire. I know she'll end up shopping or cleaning the house for the most part. I'm sure she'll save some time for reading, as well. I was not that surprised that taking out garbage is her least favorite chore, since she seems to enjoy cleaning and doing laundry.
While there are days I wouldn't mind having some time off that isn't focused on taking kids to the doctor or doing errands, I also don't know what I'd do without structure to my day. There was a point in time when I wasn't working while I lived in NJ. My older son was in day care so I could focus on finding a job and be free to go on interviews, as needed. I don't know what I did with the rest of my time. Lots of trips to Target and the grocery store, perhaps? I do that even with a job, but have to plan it on weekends. It's nice when I'm able to go to the stores on my own because the kids get antsy and I lose track of what I was supposed to get. I especially love shopping by myself (or with another adult) at the thrift store. I don't mind bribing the kids with toys, but as soon as I look at clothes, they start kvetching. I can only imagine what I was like when my mom made us go to T.J. Maxx all the time. They didn't even have toys back then! There are also times I'd like to take a vacation just for myself so I can sit by a pool and read all day.
Overall, I guess I never really understood how much my mom craves freedom, even though she doesn't have to worry about anyone else's schedule except for her own (and possibly my dad's). I hope that her career was fulfilling to her in some way, and not just seen as a job. I'd like that for myself too. I love where I work, but sometimes I feel unmotivated and unfulfilled. I know I have time to change all that and make an impact through my job so that it can become my career. Getting into my mom's head gives me a lot to think about and answers some things that were nagging at me. I also think we're more alike than I normally would have admitted.
This week, Moma Rock chose the topic: Trade places with someone for a day. Tell us what it was like to be in their shoes, to view the world through their eyes. Did you learn something from the experience?
Before reading ahead, first see what everyone else had to say on this topic:
Froggie
Mom of Many
Moma Rock
For this project, I chose my mom. I thought it would be fun to see what life is like through the eyes of someone in my family and I asked my parents and sister. My mom (bravely) volunteered and I sent her some questions. While her answers are succinct, they are revealing.
What is the first thing you usually think about when you wake up?
I think about the day ahead.
What are you thinking on your drive to and/or from work?
When I come home from work I think about making dinner and relaxing from a hard day.
What is your typical day like from when you get up to when you go to bed?
Hectic
How do you deal with changes to your daily routine?
Not well at all.
Would you rather be at work or have days with nothing on your schedule?
Days of nothing to do at all.
What do you look forward to most during the day?
Going home from work at the end of the day.
What is your favorite way to relax after work?
Sit on the couch, watch TV and pet the dog.
What chore/errand is your least favorite?
Take out the garbage.
What is the last thing you usually think about before going to sleep?
What I have to do tomorrow.
What would you like to accomplish by this time next year?
Be retired and have more time to do nothing.
When I was a kid, I remember my mom working part-time so she could be home for us when we got home from school. There were periods of time when she worked full-time and made other arrangements for us. However, the amount of time she was around definitely stands out. She'd have an after school snack waiting and was so nice to our friends when they came over. I also know that she wasn't always an X-Ray technician, even though she has been one for the majority of her life. During my youth, she was a receptionist for a while. I was impressed that she went back into the X-Ray field after her thumb injury, but times had changed and the equipment was safer. I also know that she's worked for many different medical facilities, the longest amount of time being at her current facility. I've heard both the good and bad things about her job between the friends she's made and all the politics that go on, even within a medical office. The free food from drug reps sound like a nice perk. She also gets days off during the week, even with the long days she has to work otherwise. I wish she had revealed more about what an actual day in her life is like, but I can relate to the hectic part. I also don't like getting thrown off from my routine. I think she's become completely burnt out by her job though and I hope she'll enjoy her "nothing" filled days once she gets to retire. I know she'll end up shopping or cleaning the house for the most part. I'm sure she'll save some time for reading, as well. I was not that surprised that taking out garbage is her least favorite chore, since she seems to enjoy cleaning and doing laundry.
While there are days I wouldn't mind having some time off that isn't focused on taking kids to the doctor or doing errands, I also don't know what I'd do without structure to my day. There was a point in time when I wasn't working while I lived in NJ. My older son was in day care so I could focus on finding a job and be free to go on interviews, as needed. I don't know what I did with the rest of my time. Lots of trips to Target and the grocery store, perhaps? I do that even with a job, but have to plan it on weekends. It's nice when I'm able to go to the stores on my own because the kids get antsy and I lose track of what I was supposed to get. I especially love shopping by myself (or with another adult) at the thrift store. I don't mind bribing the kids with toys, but as soon as I look at clothes, they start kvetching. I can only imagine what I was like when my mom made us go to T.J. Maxx all the time. They didn't even have toys back then! There are also times I'd like to take a vacation just for myself so I can sit by a pool and read all day.
Overall, I guess I never really understood how much my mom craves freedom, even though she doesn't have to worry about anyone else's schedule except for her own (and possibly my dad's). I hope that her career was fulfilling to her in some way, and not just seen as a job. I'd like that for myself too. I love where I work, but sometimes I feel unmotivated and unfulfilled. I know I have time to change all that and make an impact through my job so that it can become my career. Getting into my mom's head gives me a lot to think about and answers some things that were nagging at me. I also think we're more alike than I normally would have admitted.
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
52 Stories: Running Girl
Inspired by One Hundred Names by Cecelia Ahern, I've decided to ask people some thought provoking questions about themselves, as I feel that everyone has a story to tell. If you're just joining me on this journey today, please check out the previous posts from this series, as well.
This week's storyteller found my blog, thanks to Francine LaSala spreading the word. She took an interest in "52 Stories," so I invited her to participate. I admired her enthusiasm for answering the questions and have enjoyed getting to know her in this way. Her debut novel, Modogamous, will be published soon. You can pre-order it and help animals at the same time!
Name: Karen E. Martin
Age: If you know the answer to Life, the Universe, and Everything, you know how old I am. ;)
Gender: Female
Location: Columbus, OH
What is an experience that is legendary for you?
Probably one of the most memorable moments of my life was when my bestie and I went to the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. We were in Whistler village one evening after a whirlwind day of events, and the Medals Ceremony was being televised throughout the pedestrian area. We’d seen Bode win the gold earlier that day, and were already on an adrenline high from the amazing week we’d had thus far. We both stopped in our tracks, doffed our ski caps, and started singing the U.S. National Anthem as the screens showed Old Glory being hoisted. Out of nowhere, a man’s voice joined in our singing as he stepped up next to us to honor the flag. It was truly a beautiful moment. ‘Merica! *giggle*
What is your guilty pleasure?
I hate to admit it, but it’s probably reality TV. I watch Survivor (it’s my favorite show), The Biggest Loser, Chopped, So You Think You Can Dance, and sometimes Big Brother. I like reality shows because, ironically, they’re a break from reality.
What is something you've never done but you would like to do?
Go on safari in Africa. I’ve visited about 50 countries, and lived in North/West Africa for 2.5 years, but I never made it down to the Big Game areas of the continent. It’s my next big travel dream.
If you could give someone one of your favorite things as a gift, what would it be and why?
I’m not sure I could part with my favorite things. I don’t have a ton of “stuff,” but what I do have, I’ve picked up during my travels. It all has special meaning to me and helps me remember times past. If anything, I would probably give some heirloom jewelry I have to the ladies in my family, I guess. It would mean more to them than my little trinkets anyway.
What is something you did that changed someone's life?
I remember one incident in particular. I was working in rural southeastern Morocco as a Peace Corps Volunteer. One day, going stir crazy, I decided to go out and take a jog, even though it’s something girls or women didn’t really do around town. (As a foreigner, I got a bit more leeway and was considered somewhat eccentric anyway, I’m sure.) As I was jogging through one of the old ksars (mud-wall villages), a crowd of kids gathered by the side of the street, pointing and shouting. Through the middle of the cacaphony, I heard one little girl’s voice: “Look, it’s a girl—running!” I don’t think she’d ever seen that happen before; I’d like to think it changed her outlook and opened up her world just a little bit. I also started the first girls’ basketball team in town, which is rather laughable if you are familiar with my (lack of) skills at round ball.
What part of your personality is now extinct?
I don’t know…I guess that naivete that we all experience as children. I may have lost my childish innocence, but I do try to retain a childlike wonder at the world and all the amazing things it has to offer.
What is one thing that you find really funny?
Arrested Development. It gets funnier every time I watch it.
Tell me about a gift you'd like to get yourself, where money is not an issue.
I’d really like to be able to pick out whatever car I wanted. Right now I drive a ‘96 Honda Civic, and while it’s a great car (and will probably outlive me), it doesn’t fit much gear in it for road trips. I go camping a lot, so I really wish I could get a vehicle with more cargo space and that would be tough enough to haul a trailer if I wanted to do that. Cuz yeah, that’s just what I need…a trailer, which would encourage me to accumulate even more gear. ;) Secondarily, I’d love to get one of those huge, marvelous yurt-style tents, so I could make my camp set-up into a plush, getaway oasis. Oh yes, and two strapping lads to set the thing up for me, lol.
What TV show, book or movie is most like your life?
For my childhood, I would’ve said Roseanne. We were that kind of family (at least the way I saw it). Now? I’m not sure. I really don’t think there’s currently a show out there that represents my demographic. That Girl, or Murphy Brown, perhaps? Man, I’m really dating myself with those ones, aren’t I? Ooh, how about Laverne & Shirley? Yeah, that’s probably a little more descriptive of my goofy shenanigans.
What is something that not many people know about you?
I may seem like a very social extrovert, but I’m mostly a big ol’ homebody. I love people, but I also need a lot of quiet time at home.
This week's storyteller found my blog, thanks to Francine LaSala spreading the word. She took an interest in "52 Stories," so I invited her to participate. I admired her enthusiasm for answering the questions and have enjoyed getting to know her in this way. Her debut novel, Modogamous, will be published soon. You can pre-order it and help animals at the same time!
Name: Karen E. Martin
Age: If you know the answer to Life, the Universe, and Everything, you know how old I am. ;)
Gender: Female
Location: Columbus, OH
What is an experience that is legendary for you?
Probably one of the most memorable moments of my life was when my bestie and I went to the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. We were in Whistler village one evening after a whirlwind day of events, and the Medals Ceremony was being televised throughout the pedestrian area. We’d seen Bode win the gold earlier that day, and were already on an adrenline high from the amazing week we’d had thus far. We both stopped in our tracks, doffed our ski caps, and started singing the U.S. National Anthem as the screens showed Old Glory being hoisted. Out of nowhere, a man’s voice joined in our singing as he stepped up next to us to honor the flag. It was truly a beautiful moment. ‘Merica! *giggle*
What is your guilty pleasure?
I hate to admit it, but it’s probably reality TV. I watch Survivor (it’s my favorite show), The Biggest Loser, Chopped, So You Think You Can Dance, and sometimes Big Brother. I like reality shows because, ironically, they’re a break from reality.
What is something you've never done but you would like to do?
Go on safari in Africa. I’ve visited about 50 countries, and lived in North/West Africa for 2.5 years, but I never made it down to the Big Game areas of the continent. It’s my next big travel dream.
If you could give someone one of your favorite things as a gift, what would it be and why?
I’m not sure I could part with my favorite things. I don’t have a ton of “stuff,” but what I do have, I’ve picked up during my travels. It all has special meaning to me and helps me remember times past. If anything, I would probably give some heirloom jewelry I have to the ladies in my family, I guess. It would mean more to them than my little trinkets anyway.
What is something you did that changed someone's life?
I remember one incident in particular. I was working in rural southeastern Morocco as a Peace Corps Volunteer. One day, going stir crazy, I decided to go out and take a jog, even though it’s something girls or women didn’t really do around town. (As a foreigner, I got a bit more leeway and was considered somewhat eccentric anyway, I’m sure.) As I was jogging through one of the old ksars (mud-wall villages), a crowd of kids gathered by the side of the street, pointing and shouting. Through the middle of the cacaphony, I heard one little girl’s voice: “Look, it’s a girl—running!” I don’t think she’d ever seen that happen before; I’d like to think it changed her outlook and opened up her world just a little bit. I also started the first girls’ basketball team in town, which is rather laughable if you are familiar with my (lack of) skills at round ball.
What part of your personality is now extinct?
I don’t know…I guess that naivete that we all experience as children. I may have lost my childish innocence, but I do try to retain a childlike wonder at the world and all the amazing things it has to offer.
What is one thing that you find really funny?
Arrested Development. It gets funnier every time I watch it.
Tell me about a gift you'd like to get yourself, where money is not an issue.
I’d really like to be able to pick out whatever car I wanted. Right now I drive a ‘96 Honda Civic, and while it’s a great car (and will probably outlive me), it doesn’t fit much gear in it for road trips. I go camping a lot, so I really wish I could get a vehicle with more cargo space and that would be tough enough to haul a trailer if I wanted to do that. Cuz yeah, that’s just what I need…a trailer, which would encourage me to accumulate even more gear. ;) Secondarily, I’d love to get one of those huge, marvelous yurt-style tents, so I could make my camp set-up into a plush, getaway oasis. Oh yes, and two strapping lads to set the thing up for me, lol.
What TV show, book or movie is most like your life?
For my childhood, I would’ve said Roseanne. We were that kind of family (at least the way I saw it). Now? I’m not sure. I really don’t think there’s currently a show out there that represents my demographic. That Girl, or Murphy Brown, perhaps? Man, I’m really dating myself with those ones, aren’t I? Ooh, how about Laverne & Shirley? Yeah, that’s probably a little more descriptive of my goofy shenanigans.
What is something that not many people know about you?
I may seem like a very social extrovert, but I’m mostly a big ol’ homebody. I love people, but I also need a lot of quiet time at home.
Thursday, June 20, 2013
Writing's on the wall...
I've been blogging with three fabulous women for over two years and have been enjoying all the fun topics we come up with week after week. If you want to see what we've discussed in the past, check out our posts here.
This week, Froggie wants to know: Are you superstitious? If so, tell us about one of your superstitions. If not talk about why.
Before reading ahead, first see what everyone else had to say on this topic:
Froggie
Mom of Many
Moma Rock
Whenever I hear the word "superstition," I immediately get the classic Stevie Wonder song in my head. I just needed to put that out there.
I consider myself to be somewhat superstitious. I wouldn't say that I avoid stepping on cracks or black cats in my path (given I had a black cat when I was in high school, I'm not too worried). However, if salt spills, I immediately have to throw some over my shoulder. Not sure why either. I also get nervous about broken mirrors leading to seven years of bad luck and worry about the potential of one breaking in my presence.
When I was pregnant, I'd say "b'shaah tovah" all the time. I still say it for other people who are pregnant, but I said it obsessively for myself whenever I talked about the babies' arrivals. I also believe in the Jewish superstition about not buying anything for babies before they are born. And if I did buy things, I kept the tags on them or pretended they were gifts for other people's babies, just to make myself feel better. Prior to my first child being born, I had bought a take home outfit and told my friend to keep it at her house and not wash it until the baby was born. I found out a few days later that she had washed it while I was still pregnant. I had a little freak-out over that. She helped me feel better about things, but that's how superstitious I get in regards to pregnancy.
In general, I'm obsessive about stuff like making sure all the doors are locked at night and checking them each several times because the first time I checked, there's some chance it would have magically unlocked afterward. (When we had a garage at our house in Illinois, I'd drive around the circle again just to make sure I really closed it.) I also check on my kids when they're sleeping and count their breathing rhythms up to 10 to make sure I'm not imagining them breathing. Maybe that's just a paranoia on my end. I also say "no kaynehores" (kay-na-hor-ahs) a lot as to not jinx myself. When I was a kid, I thought "kaynehore" was a swear word because my late maternal grandma said it so often. I would use it as a swear word when I played Barbies. Later, I found out what it meant: "It shouldn't happen to you." Also, I prepare myself for the worst so that I'll give myself a reverse "kaynehore." I probably drive myself crazy doing so, but I find it helpful.
This week, Froggie wants to know: Are you superstitious? If so, tell us about one of your superstitions. If not talk about why.
Before reading ahead, first see what everyone else had to say on this topic:
Froggie
Mom of Many
Moma Rock
Whenever I hear the word "superstition," I immediately get the classic Stevie Wonder song in my head. I just needed to put that out there.
I consider myself to be somewhat superstitious. I wouldn't say that I avoid stepping on cracks or black cats in my path (given I had a black cat when I was in high school, I'm not too worried). However, if salt spills, I immediately have to throw some over my shoulder. Not sure why either. I also get nervous about broken mirrors leading to seven years of bad luck and worry about the potential of one breaking in my presence.
When I was pregnant, I'd say "b'shaah tovah" all the time. I still say it for other people who are pregnant, but I said it obsessively for myself whenever I talked about the babies' arrivals. I also believe in the Jewish superstition about not buying anything for babies before they are born. And if I did buy things, I kept the tags on them or pretended they were gifts for other people's babies, just to make myself feel better. Prior to my first child being born, I had bought a take home outfit and told my friend to keep it at her house and not wash it until the baby was born. I found out a few days later that she had washed it while I was still pregnant. I had a little freak-out over that. She helped me feel better about things, but that's how superstitious I get in regards to pregnancy.
In general, I'm obsessive about stuff like making sure all the doors are locked at night and checking them each several times because the first time I checked, there's some chance it would have magically unlocked afterward. (When we had a garage at our house in Illinois, I'd drive around the circle again just to make sure I really closed it.) I also check on my kids when they're sleeping and count their breathing rhythms up to 10 to make sure I'm not imagining them breathing. Maybe that's just a paranoia on my end. I also say "no kaynehores" (kay-na-hor-ahs) a lot as to not jinx myself. When I was a kid, I thought "kaynehore" was a swear word because my late maternal grandma said it so often. I would use it as a swear word when I played Barbies. Later, I found out what it meant: "It shouldn't happen to you." Also, I prepare myself for the worst so that I'll give myself a reverse "kaynehore." I probably drive myself crazy doing so, but I find it helpful.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
52 Stories: Come together
Inspired by One Hundred Names by Cecelia Ahern, I've decided to ask people some thought provoking questions about themselves, as I feel that everyone has a story to tell. If you're just joining me on this journey today, please check out the previous posts from this series, as well.
I first met this storyteller about three years ago. I think I found her via Facebook when I saw that her blog was giving away books. I even won a book from her shortly after entering her contests. She and I can relate not only to loving books, but also moving from Chicago to other parts of the country. Since then she's published a novella (The Cell Phone Lot) and a full-length novel (What She Left Us) and I've featured her at my book blog a couple of times. This time around, I'm getting to know her in a different way. She gives away books at her blog, Booking with Manic often, so stop on by and enter to win her latest offering!
Name you'd like to go by: Stephanie Elliot
Age: 44
Gender: Female
Location: Scottsdale, AZ
What is an experience that is legendary for you?
Wow. Besides a wet T-shirt contest in Daytona in the late '80s that I wish not to remember... can't really think of anything.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Naps!
What is something you've never done but you would like to do?
Traditionally publish my novels
If you could give someone one of your favorite things as a gift, what would it be and why?
The first thing that came to mind is I will pass down my engagement diamond to my daughter some day.
What is something you did that changed someone's life?
Give birth to three children because I gave them their lives!
What part of your personality is now extinct?
The trait of being on time!
What is one thing that you find really funny?
The fact that my oldest son reminds me of my brother and sometimes I say that I gave birth to my brother. He acts just like my brother did when we were children.
Tell me one thing you love about yourself (or a gift you'd like to get yourself, where money is not an issue):
One thing I love about myself is I will always go out of my way in situations where people don't know one another to make the group feel less isolated, I will try to bring the group together, whether it's at a conference or a party or a place where individuals are brought together who don't know each other.
What TV show, book or movie is most like your life?
She's Come Undone by Wally Lamb, not because of the content, but because most days I feel like I have come undone and need help getting myself put back together! Hahah.
What is something that not many people know about you?
If I told you, then you would know!
I first met this storyteller about three years ago. I think I found her via Facebook when I saw that her blog was giving away books. I even won a book from her shortly after entering her contests. She and I can relate not only to loving books, but also moving from Chicago to other parts of the country. Since then she's published a novella (The Cell Phone Lot) and a full-length novel (What She Left Us) and I've featured her at my book blog a couple of times. This time around, I'm getting to know her in a different way. She gives away books at her blog, Booking with Manic often, so stop on by and enter to win her latest offering!
Name you'd like to go by: Stephanie Elliot
Age: 44
Gender: Female
Location: Scottsdale, AZ
What is an experience that is legendary for you?
Wow. Besides a wet T-shirt contest in Daytona in the late '80s that I wish not to remember... can't really think of anything.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Naps!
What is something you've never done but you would like to do?
Traditionally publish my novels
If you could give someone one of your favorite things as a gift, what would it be and why?
The first thing that came to mind is I will pass down my engagement diamond to my daughter some day.
What is something you did that changed someone's life?
Give birth to three children because I gave them their lives!
What part of your personality is now extinct?
The trait of being on time!
What is one thing that you find really funny?
The fact that my oldest son reminds me of my brother and sometimes I say that I gave birth to my brother. He acts just like my brother did when we were children.
Tell me one thing you love about yourself (or a gift you'd like to get yourself, where money is not an issue):
One thing I love about myself is I will always go out of my way in situations where people don't know one another to make the group feel less isolated, I will try to bring the group together, whether it's at a conference or a party or a place where individuals are brought together who don't know each other.
What TV show, book or movie is most like your life?
She's Come Undone by Wally Lamb, not because of the content, but because most days I feel like I have come undone and need help getting myself put back together! Hahah.
What is something that not many people know about you?
If I told you, then you would know!
Monday, June 17, 2013
Finders, Keepers
I've been blogging with three fabulous women for over two years and have been enjoying all the fun topics we come up with week after week. If you want to see what we've discussed in the past, check out our posts here.
This week, Mom of Many chose the topic: When you stop looking for something you often find it. Is this something that has been true in your life?.
Before reading ahead, first see what everyone else had to say on this topic:
Froggie
Mom of Many
Moma Rock
When I first read the topic, I thought Mom of Many was referring to something being in the last place you'd look. That's sometimes the case.
Knowing myself, I'm usually looking for something actively and it's rare when I find something long after I've stopped looking. I could tell myself I wasn't really looking, but I still think I was subtly keeping my eyes and ears open. There have been times when I'd be pleasantly surprised though. And other times when I'd be frustrated by the idea that something would magically turn up if I stopped looking. If that's the case, where is my ring from Israel that disappeared almost four years ago?!?
This concept comes into play around Passover, when I'm cleaning out the cars and unearth all sorts of treasures. I once found my older son's kipah that I'd given up on shortly after our move here. I was excited over that find. Other times, money will turn up out of nowhere, and I have no complaints over that! The best thing is when I go to Value Village and come across something that was just sitting there, waiting for me to find it. The best treasure has been sets of Full House DVDs. I also found My So-Called Life on DVD there one time.
These days, it's less about objects and more about life experiences. I know there are people who say that love comes when you least expect it. I once heard a comedian talk about that phrase. He said that must mean that love would find him at three a.m. while he's on the toilet. Seriously though, I don't know if I was actively looking for love when I found my husband. I'd given up on the search for a soul mate prior to meeting him, but it was such a short time of not actively looking. And I was still openly flirting if I came across a guy I found interesting and approachable. However, this concept does fit in with two other life experiences....
When we lived in New Jersey, we were looking for a community that was a better fit for us both financially and socially. We spent Shabbos weekends in different neighborhoods, but never had that "Goldilocks" moment during any of these visits. After a while, we stopped seeking out towns to visit, at least for the winter months, and decided to take things as they came. Then we went to Washington DC for my husband's work conference and that led us to check out a nearby neighborhood a few months later. We experienced the "Goldilocks" moment right away. Four years later, we still love living here.
The other life experience this relates to is making new friends. I have actively sought out ways to make friends in the past. Sometimes I'd just make one new friend and that would be it. I was always just looking to meet people nearby and form a connection so we could hang out more often. This ended up happening with someone whom I am now friends with in my community. We might not have talked more than a "hi" in passing if we didn't run into each other at an author event. When I had initially met her about two years prior to that event, I tried reaching out to become friends but nothing ever came of it. It took this author event to bring us together and I'm very thankful for that. (And here I thought having the author call me by name was the best moment of the evening!) Then there are the people who live far away but have become close friends because we met through the book blog. They e-mailed me about appearing on the blog and all of a sudden we're talking about anything and everything. These women know who they are...or at least I hope they do! They've become very special to me over a short period of time. I've also connected really well with other book bloggers, but have yet to meet them in person.
I hope this answers Mom of Many's question.
This week, Mom of Many chose the topic: When you stop looking for something you often find it. Is this something that has been true in your life?.
Before reading ahead, first see what everyone else had to say on this topic:
Froggie
Mom of Many
Moma Rock
When I first read the topic, I thought Mom of Many was referring to something being in the last place you'd look. That's sometimes the case.
Knowing myself, I'm usually looking for something actively and it's rare when I find something long after I've stopped looking. I could tell myself I wasn't really looking, but I still think I was subtly keeping my eyes and ears open. There have been times when I'd be pleasantly surprised though. And other times when I'd be frustrated by the idea that something would magically turn up if I stopped looking. If that's the case, where is my ring from Israel that disappeared almost four years ago?!?
This concept comes into play around Passover, when I'm cleaning out the cars and unearth all sorts of treasures. I once found my older son's kipah that I'd given up on shortly after our move here. I was excited over that find. Other times, money will turn up out of nowhere, and I have no complaints over that! The best thing is when I go to Value Village and come across something that was just sitting there, waiting for me to find it. The best treasure has been sets of Full House DVDs. I also found My So-Called Life on DVD there one time.
These days, it's less about objects and more about life experiences. I know there are people who say that love comes when you least expect it. I once heard a comedian talk about that phrase. He said that must mean that love would find him at three a.m. while he's on the toilet. Seriously though, I don't know if I was actively looking for love when I found my husband. I'd given up on the search for a soul mate prior to meeting him, but it was such a short time of not actively looking. And I was still openly flirting if I came across a guy I found interesting and approachable. However, this concept does fit in with two other life experiences....
When we lived in New Jersey, we were looking for a community that was a better fit for us both financially and socially. We spent Shabbos weekends in different neighborhoods, but never had that "Goldilocks" moment during any of these visits. After a while, we stopped seeking out towns to visit, at least for the winter months, and decided to take things as they came. Then we went to Washington DC for my husband's work conference and that led us to check out a nearby neighborhood a few months later. We experienced the "Goldilocks" moment right away. Four years later, we still love living here.
The other life experience this relates to is making new friends. I have actively sought out ways to make friends in the past. Sometimes I'd just make one new friend and that would be it. I was always just looking to meet people nearby and form a connection so we could hang out more often. This ended up happening with someone whom I am now friends with in my community. We might not have talked more than a "hi" in passing if we didn't run into each other at an author event. When I had initially met her about two years prior to that event, I tried reaching out to become friends but nothing ever came of it. It took this author event to bring us together and I'm very thankful for that. (And here I thought having the author call me by name was the best moment of the evening!) Then there are the people who live far away but have become close friends because we met through the book blog. They e-mailed me about appearing on the blog and all of a sudden we're talking about anything and everything. These women know who they are...or at least I hope they do! They've become very special to me over a short period of time. I've also connected really well with other book bloggers, but have yet to meet them in person.
I hope this answers Mom of Many's question.
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