Sea Island-2nd entry

Today, I did something completely frightening. For the first time EVER, I shot a gun. For those of you who know me well, you may be laughing a bit. I'm not exactly a gun-girl, but I enjoy learning new things! I'll never be a cop and I hopefully won't need to defend myself with such a weapon, but after watching people like Jack Bauer in action, how could I NOT want to find out for myself?

My pal Ellis, his brother Everett and I were signed up for 11 a.m. skeet shooting today, and as we headed to the site, I sat silently in the suburban, struggling with my internal doubts. Mama always told me guns were dangerous. She made sure my childhood was gun-free. What if I make a fool of myself? What if I pull a Barney Fife and cause the gun to fire by accident? What if I hurt myself or somebody else?

It turned out to be a simple task. The shooting site overlooked the breezy island marshes, and the sunshine provided a blanket of comfort. Our shooting instructor was very helpful and patient with me. He initially had me practice aiming and pulling the trigger with my gun unloaded, while I attempted to follow the moving object in the sky.

The "moving objects" are little clay disks which, controlled by the instructor, machine-eject into the air upon command.I feel sorry for those little clay disks, because many of them were murdered today. I actually hit a few, though there were plenty expected misses. As Sir Issac Newton's law of physics states, "for every action, there is equal and opposite reaction" so as many already understand, when I pulled the trigger, gun's wooden end knocked me a bit in the face. My right cheek wasn't too happy about this, but chilly air and sinuses seemed to numb much of this temporary pain. Since I was unfamiliar with shooting, I tensed up and moved my head on several rounds. However, this didn't stop me from "killing" many pretend birds in the sky.

I can't believe I finally shot a gun. I wonder what's next?

Sea Island-1st entry

It's wintertime, and I'm at the beach. I'm not in Panama City, south Flordia or the Caribbean. I'm actually located at an unexpected Georgia Beach....on an island simply dubbed Sea Island. Until recently, I never knew this place existed. It's a scenic, ritzy place, for sure. Some friends have been kind enough to include me on their family voyage to this exquisite place of historic cottages and southern charm.

This part of the state is brand new to me, but I'm so glad to finally witness this. I'm loving the Spanish moss hanging from the live oak trees. A recent bike ride along the neighborhood sidewalks revealed a smorgasbord of beautiful plants, renovated homes, and the occasional jogger.

A lovely patch of palm trees and beach grass is the only thing that separates our cottage from the cold, Atlantic waves. From my bedroom, I can hear the breakers angrily crashing upon the hard-packed shore. Today, I experienced the unusual sensation of stepping onto the beach in my flat leather boots. I mean, like most people I know, I'm a summer beach-bum, and I prefer the blazing hot sun and smell of sun-tan lotion. During this time of year, I rarely give the beach a second thought, but being here now is still beautiful, despite the 50-degree weather.

Our back porch rests a large a hot-tub.....my ultimate favorite! Yes, I've already taken a relaxing dip, and I plan on visiting it again after dinner. This week, I believe we'll be horseback riding, exploring the newly built Beach Club for meals, kayaking through the marshes or practicing some skills at shooting range. I'll keep you posted!

New Laptop!

My much-awaited laptop is FINALLY here! It is absolutely beautiful. I must say though, it's quite different from my last. It's shiner, slicker, and wider. It will take a little while to get used to the upgrade, but I am entirely thankful. I'm hoping my itunes transfers successfully, because if not, I'll die without my music.

Tonight is going to be a blast. Laci, my best friend, is back in town, and we're planning to go out on the town with our close friend, Shelley. The three of us haven't been together in......well, forever. One of the best things about being with your oldest, closest friends is the lack of drama. I seriously thought the 20s era would consist of grown-up, positive relationships, but alas, turmoil still occurs.

Last saturday night was "Girls Night" with some other buddies of mine. It was an icy, chilly night in Chattanooga, but that didn't stop us from having fun. Well, mostly fun. There were a pack of weirdos dressed as Santa strolling the downtown streets, and we couldn't figure out why anybody who wasn't naturally jolly and robust would dress as such. Later somebody mentioned "oh, I think it was Santa-con!" Santa-con?? Strange. Don't people have more productive things to do? Hmmmm. Anyway........as the evening progressed, one friend ended up ditching us unexpectedly. There was no fight or exchange of irate words, it was just a personal decision. However, it shouldn't have happened. We all rode together, and my plans were to return together. Sounds simple, right?

I'm learning that no matter how fool-proof a plan may be, strange things STILL happen. I have high hopes for this night, so we'll just see how it goes.

Buzzwords of 2009

At the risk of sounding copy-catish, I'm posting a list of what the NY Times believes are buzzwords of the present day. I am including comments after each one.

----Buzzwords----

aporkalypse-Undue worry in response to swine flu. Includes unnecessary acts like removing nonessential kisses from Mexican telenovelas and the mass slaughter of pigs in Egypt.

~a-pork-alypse. That's too funny. I'm still looking forward to that Christmas ham.


athey-An atheist. Usually derogatory.

~Such a sad thing to be.


birther-A person who believes that Barack Obama was not born in the United States and therefore can’t be president.

~Where was he born, anyway?

Cash for Clunkers-A government program in which older automobiles are exchanged for pollution credits or rebates on newer and more fuel-efficient models. First popular in 1990 but resurgent in 2009.

~Heard about it, but I'm keeping my current car.....for now.

Chimerica-The intertwined economies of China and the United States, which together dominate the world economy. Popularized by Niall Ferguson in his book “The Ascent of Money.”

~Some say China could take over one day. I don't know a single Chinese word, but I do love the food!

conflict minerals-Gold, tin, tungsten and tantalum, widely used in electronic devices and commonly mined in politically unstable countries or regions. Related to conflict diamonds.

~I would love to stumble upon gold in some secret cave. That is a childhood fantasy of mine.

Dracula sneeze-Covering the mouth with the crook of the elbow when sneezing, like Dracula hiding his face with a cape.

Oh my goodness, I do this all the time! Who really wants nasty sneeze-moisture on their hands, anyway??

drive like a Cullen-To drive like a bat out of hell, like a member of the Cullen family in the “Twilight” vampire books by Stephenie Meyer.

~I've heard this one on facebook. And yes, I've driven like that many times.

Government Motors-A nickname for General Motors, which is now majority owned by the federal government.

~Ha. I still prefer a BMW.

Great Recession-A reference to the current economic downturn. Used at least a few times for every recession since 1980, but never with such vigor as now.

~Yep, and I'm sick of it.

green shoots-Signs of an economic recovery or of a company’s financial turnaround.

~We need more of these!

I’mma let you finish-Part of Kanye West’s interruption of Taylor Swift’s acceptance speech at the MTV Video Music Awards, a widely popular joke meme on the Internet.

~You can find parodies of this incident on google. Some friends of mine even photo-shopped their own image, giving Kanya a speech bubble and referencing outrageous things. To be honest, it's a little odd that TS won so many awards at such a young age. Some said it's "too much, too soon." But, that's a topic for another day.

jeggings-Jean leggings.

~I want some! But many of these "jeggings" are more of a stretchy material that only appears to be denim. Darker looks better, by the way.

mancession-A recession that affects men more than women. Also hecession.

~Like construction work, perhaps?

netbook-An inexpensive portable computer, usually smaller than a laptop but larger than a smartphone, intended mainly for use with the Internet.

~I saw many of these while computer shopping, but I didn't fully understand what they were.

Octomom-Nadya Suleman, who gave birth to octuplets in January.

~Freakish. I don't even think I want ONE kid....

sexting-The sending of sexual messages or pictures by mobile telephone.

~An episode of Glee references this.

social distancing-Staying away from other people so as not to catch or spread the flu. Common since late 2005 but surging in 2009.

~I guess this is an easy to do now, since you can accomplish most tasks via internet.

swine flu party-A gathering held so people can be infected by a mild form of swine flu, in theory creating antibodies against more dangerous forms. Such a practice is universally discouraged by doctors.

~This is the dumbest thing I've ever heard. I can just imagine a group of people sitting in a living room, coughing all over each other....

Tea Party-An organized gathering of antitax, antigovernment and/or anti-Obama protestors. Also teabagger, a derogatory name for attendees of Tea Parties, probably coined in allusion to a sexual practice.

I went to one in Atlanta! I dragged a video camera and microphone around to interview people for UTV-13. That was interesting, yet difficult to lug around downtown (and on the MARTA).

Tenther-A person who believes the federal government is mostly illegal because it usurps rights that belong to the states, in violation of the 10th Amendment, which reads, “The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.”

~More people should be aware and have a clearer understanding of the constitution.

torture memos-Bush administration documents that secretly authorized the torture of suspected terrorists.

vook-A digital book that includes some video in its text.

~I haven't heard of this.

warmist-Someone who believes that the earth is jeopardized by becoming warmer. Shortened from global warmist and used mainly by people who are skeptical about global warming.

~Haha so silly. Personally, I'm freezing cold all the time, so this global warming thing can't possibly be true. But of course, this is such a ridiculously controversial matter and I don't wish to discuss it at this time.

Headache at Midnight

I have a headache tonight (actually, this morning) so I can't write much. I mean, I've been headache-free for almost two weeks, but then, out of the blue......it sneaks up on me. Why?!?!?! Maybe I shouldn't be reading my book in the semi-dim light of my night stand's lamp.

Life is kind of at a standstill right now, so I'm ready for something huge to happen. Well, my boyfriend Ellis just got hired at the Chattanooga Times-Free Press, & will be moving up here to good 'ol Chattanooga to work! That's big news, but it's even bigger for him. Not to be selfish, but when will that life-changing event happen for me? Of course, I don't want any tragedies, like deaths or weather disasters, but I'd like to see a SIGN that positive change is around the corner. No, not Obama change, but real change for my personal life. Patience is difficult. I'm waiting for a lot of things now. My new laptop, for example. Every time I see the words "Fed Ex" I become anxious and hopeful.

Alright, I guess it's bedtime. I can't watch movies or read now. Headaches pretty much limit everything.

Spare some change?

I was sitting in Waffle House last Saturday, enjoying an evening breakfast, when a strange woman entered the restaurant. She approached my table and asked for "a couple of dollars." I paused a moment, glanced at her, then towards my friends.

Nobody moved, let I silently wished for her to go away. These situations are ALWAYS awkward for me. Truthfully, the only thing in my wallet were a couple of bank cards, but I doubt I would've given her cash if I'd had any. Call me selfish or heartless, but during these rare encounters, my mistrust meter tends to spike.

After a moment's hesitation at my table, my friend Kat handed the woman a couple bills, and she immediately disappeared. Or so we thought. A half hour later, she was back, asking a new group the same question.

Some argue that giving money away like that only feeds the monster. Bleeding hearts would probably ask this: "If you were in her shoes, wouldn't you want others to give money to you? What if you were homeless? What if you had nothing?"

Ok, I do feel for her. However, when I see people like that, I can't help being suspicious. My mind goes over a list in my head:

1) Do they REALLY need the money, or are they just pretending?
2) What if they're lying, and they just want drug/alcohol money?
3) If I don't give them money, what will happen?
4) Uh-oh.... I'm feeling it....guilt, guilt, guilt, guilt!!!!!!

The Lord tells us to be giving. I want to give, I love to give. So why am a so pessimistic about these sort of situations? It's not that I don't care about the homeless or the needy. I just feel very strange when people ask me to personally hand over my money. They probably don't know it, but I'm pretty broke myself!

The worst part is the verbal guilt-trip. "I can't believe you won't give me nothin'.....that's a nice outfit you're wearin' so there's no way you don't have some money for me!" Etc... That's always bad, but some of these folks are well-practiced manipulators. Watch out for this.

I think the key is to be kind yet abrupt, observant but not hesitant.

The Shopping Scheme

Remember that moment when you shopped with your friend, and you were debating whether or not to buy that cool new thing you found? Maybe it was a leather jacket, another pair of overpriced jeans, or maybe even....a puppy!

You probably furrowed your brow in deep thought, knowing you needed to be practical and NOT spend extra $, but your friend said: "Just get it!"

You respond with a doubtful facial expression. "Um, I don't know.....should I? I really like it, but I-"

"Buy it! You want it, so get it."

Secretly, those are the words you wanted to hear. Yay! You think gleefully. Your heart races, you give a satisfied smile to nobody in particular, and hurriedly step in line before you change your mind. Of course, as you leave the cash register, you're struck with a nasty feeling of guilt. I shouldn't have done that.....after all, I already HAVE a pair of crocs. But these were light blue! And I wanted them! I don't own any light blue ones, but now I do, whoo hoo!

*Disclaimer: nobody should EVER purchase crocs. Not for leisure, not even for rafting. They're just plain ugly. Crocs were used strictly for sake of an example in this blog, and no other. * Anyways.....

We've all experienced a similar situation. Buying something you really wanted, but didn't need. We justify it by arguing we had a bad day, and needed a pick-me-up. Or, the fact that we haven't shopped in "fooooreever."

If you'd gone shopping alone, would you have splurged at all? It's easy for another person to chime in with a "yeah, just buy it" because, well, nobody likes to hear the word "no." People want to see success and positive exchanges, not boring 'ol rejection and/or caution. Bottom line? Your money is not near 'n dear to others. It's only near 'n dear to y-o-u. Outsiders don't know your your money limit. They make think you have infinite amounts!

Sales reps and cashiers encourage you to get that extra tank top, not because they want you to own a kick-butt wardrobe. It's their JOB to make you buy their products! Yeah, it's easy to give in when the kindly man says, "did you want to pick out another one? They're buy one, get one 50% off!" Those deals sound excellent, but do the math first. If that sparkly red tank top is $29.99, that second one will still cost more than $15. For some, it's a hefty hit on their checking account.

With Christmas around the corner, it's important to know the difference between what you want and what you actually need. I fall victim to the "but I deserve to buy something" scheme sometimes, but I do strive to be frugal. Heck, I have to be frugal since I'm not a millionaire yet. Ha.

Next time you shop with your pals, don't pressure them to buy something they only THINK they want. At the same time, if you have intense doubt but your friend says "just do it" use your head and think: it's my life, my cash. Can I afford to spend money today? You have to work hard for your money, so is that lust-worthy product more valuable than the money in your purse/wallet? Ka-ching, ka-ching.

America the Damaged?

The December 7th edition of Time magazine features an article entitled "The Decade from Hell." Though this appears harsh, the article supports it's argument with factual series of critical happenings: the horrifying 9/11 tragedy, a controversial presidential election between Bush & Gore (remember hanging chads???), the deadly tsunami in Asia, many, many bombings in the middle east, mad-cow disease, a climbing death toll of U.S military troops in Iraq, hurricane Katrina, steroid use in baseball, Virginia Tech shootings, the worst dow decline since 1931, Chrysler & General Motors declaring bankruptcy, swine flu and much more.

I knew much of America's troubles, along with international shortcomings, but this article was a naked reminder. Drinking them in at once wasn't at all pleasant, but I believe it's an important read.

It's mind-blowing to think how far we as a nation have come, mistakes and successes included. A writer I know did not fret the "hellish decade" article. Instead, he stated, "they say every decade is the worst one ever. They'll probably do it again in 2019." So, is this article an embellishment, another block to add to the staggering tower of economy woes and plummeting job-market charts?

Some complain the actual events were bad enough without being sensationalized by human nature. But hey, crap HAPPENED. Our nation, even with its hard hits, has much to be thankful for. Hopefully, we can learn from foolish choices and emerge wiser, stronger and more prepared.

Special Report

I'm feeling so much better these days. For months, I'd been riding out the post-graduation blues, but change is finally occurring. Maybe it's because my small job is going well, or the fact that Christmas is just around the corner. I can't really explain it, but I have been acting so blah for so long, I've become SICK of it. I want to stop being so negative. It's not who I really am!

Last spring, I was reporting the news for our campus news station, UTV-13, and keeping busy with my internship. My life felt more fulfilled because I was busy. I had purpose, deadlines, and people depending on me. However, after graduation, I realized the real work had barely begun. Last spring, I wanted to be a reporter. I'm not fabulous, but I do alright. I suppose I'm pretty good...I have ability and I enjoy writing...and heck, I suppose I've always wanted to be on TV! Somewhere along the way, I lost hope. I was told by many that being a reporter was not a glamorous career. I was indecisive, confused, and timid about anything work-related.

"You'll work late nights, holidays, and weekends," a guy at my internship told me. "The salary isn't great, and you'll see a lot of bad stuff."

I tried not to let these words of truth get to me, but after a while, I started wondering if there was something better out there. Something....easier. Well, I haven't been in the "real world" for very long, but I have learned that "easy jobs" are the boring ones. I can't live life being AFRAID to try something that could be great for me.

Now that I have a new goal, I feel excited. It could fall through, but if I'm fortunate, I'll persevere. I may need to intern a bit more, try for a job, and see how it goes.

Almost Turkey Time

Our apple pie is already ready, and my grandparents are here! It's not very crowded at our house. I'd say there's just the right amount for our dining room table. Speaking of the table, it's already set and beautifully decorated (minus a few plates, glasses, and the food, of course). It's going to be pretty low key. I could wear my pajamas during dinner, but I think I'll at least make the effort to dress somewhat nicely. Hmm, actually, I believe there is an Indian costume lying in a random box upstairs. Ha, that would be pretty funny. And silly. And probably unnecessary.

But really, we shouldn't forget the reason we're celebrating this holiday. I feel I've complained tremendously this year....heck, it's been a year of ups and downs. But, there's so much to be thankful for! My sister survived a nasty car wreck yesterday, and is completely unharmed. The car was pretty mutilated though. I'm thankful she's ok.

I'm thankful for my church and the good people I know there, my close friends, and family. I have no broken bones, and as far as I know, no life-threatening diseases. My list could go on and on, but everyone is here gossiping, so I better sign off and join the discussion. 'til next time.....

The Atlanta Opera

Last night, I had the privilege to attend The Altlanta Opera's 1962 Vienna version of Orfeo & Euridice. These occasions are remarkable to witness. The extravagant sets and well-practiced talent of the performers makes the journey worthwhile. However, there's more to it than the opera itself. In my opinion, half the fun is the audience.

People of all ages attend operas, but from my observance, I'd say older adults make up a higher percentage. Operas are no local talent show. Wealthy businessmen, elegant women and other guests all dress to impress. Opening nights practically require tuxedos for men, and women are allowed to be creative; anything from prim cocktail dresses to floor-length prom-like ensembles.

The Atlanta Opera performs in the Cobb Energy Centre. The beautiful building always awes me, and although it's a bit touristy, I try to snap an occasional photograph, like the one here.

Sure, to any newcomer from a small town, the atmosphere may appear stuffy, yet I've learned to absorb the uniqueness. The best word to sum it up? CLASSY, folks, downright classy.

In a weird way, it's like attending a mega-church on steroids, but with champagne and valet parking. My boyfriend and I are tightwads, so we usually dismiss the eager valet men with a polite nod, and coast over to the parking garage. From there, we follow scores of handsome couples and diamond-adorned grandmothers through the glass doors, where we are warmly greeted by.... well, who are they, anyway? Opera workers. Volunteers. Greeters.....whoever.

The bad thing about operas? They're rarely sung in English. This barrier is assisted by an electronic screen located at the pinnacle of the stage. Operas are written Italian, but one barely notices what they're saying; it's all about melodious notes and orchestral accompaniment.

Would I go again? Sure, I go when I'm invited. But, I much prefer a play with straight dialog. Still, if you ever get a chance to attend an opera, you'd be wise to go.

Pre-holiday jitters

You've seen the festive decor at the mall. You've spoken to Grandma about turkey carvings and pumpkin pie recipes. You've madly messaged old friends to find out when they're returning to town. Yep folks, without a doubt, the holidays are fast-approaching. Though making that list (and checking it twice) may seem an overzealous thing to do today, I believe in planning ahead. Being spontaneous in a small town is nearly impossible, so I'm currently attempting to nail down future holiday events, such as my Girl's Night Out and New Year's Eve happenings. However, shopping is a different story.

My mother knocks out 3/4 of her shopping on infamous Black Friday. This usually entails my sister and I dragging her around the mall and graciously allowing her to buy us new clothes & various goodies from Victoria Secret or Bath & Body Works. However, since I'm now supposed to be grown up, I will strive for frugality and ignore unnecessary whims or over-priced items. I myself have a small amount to gifts to buy, so perhaps I should start now. Don't you feel satisfied when gifts are happily wrapped on time and ready to be given?

Anyway, I don't need to get ahead of myself. I could (and probably will) ramble on and on about Christmas, but Thanksgiving cannot be ignored. This turkey holiday, my family is breaking a million-year streak & having our meal at home. For years, we visited my dad's family in Kentucky, but finally, change has occurred. Nonee and Popee (my grandparents) will be our only guests. It's a bit weird because, since we're never home for Thanksgiving, our stash of pilgrim and indian-related decorations is slim to none. My mother won't let this fact spoil the fun. She stocked up at the Yankee Candle store yesterday afternoon, and I've noticed a couple stuffed turkey friends who I can't have lived here before. Oh, have you sniffed "autumn wreath?" Apparently, it smells like Fall. At least, that's what Mrs. Gaddis says.

What is your favorite part of Thanksgiving?

Exercise

Since my early days on the middle school track team, exercise has always been important to me. It began with running drills on the hot afternoon pavement, and laps around the high school track.

Though informed that I was faster than most of my teammates, I now admit I was once in sorry shape. After the first weeks of regular practice, my soreness was excruciating. My hamstrings ached. My lungs wanted to explode after a mere two-lap jog. My ankles, of all things, became so sore and tender I couldn't jump one mere inch into the long-jump pit. However, as years passed and my endurance improved, I became a strong runner. I even made it to state (100 meter and 300 meter hurdles) during senior year.

Running wasn't my only step towards self-actualization. I discovered the weight room, with its mysterious metal equipment and monster-sized dumb-bells. Realizing the best athletes were the most conditioned ones, I made working out a priority.

The gym is often more exciting. If you've ever been to a gym on a regular basis, you may have noticed some popular trends and methods. First, the early risers. Early risers will be the first to tread the gym floor each morning. For them, an endorphin release is the ONLY way to begin their day. With a full day's work ahead and a family to attend to in the evenings, morning is their best time to burn calories and stimulate the mind. Also, ER's find the solitude comforting...less distractions and less people hogging all the good machines.

Afternoons are crowded. Kids filter in after school hours. Late snoozers, after mustering the gumption, roll in and plan to burn the excess calories they sinfully consumed at lunch.


BIG DUDES. Yup, every gym's got 'em. The guys with bulging muscles and tattoos. Usually, one member of this group has a plaque on the wall with their name emblazoned upon it, declaring him the winner of the annual dead-lift competition. Mind you, these guys aren't necessarily the best category to be in. Sure, they'll never be mugged in a dark alleyway and they could lift a car off their dying grandmother, but that's about it. Large doesn't always mean In Shape. I took a fitness workshop a few years back, and the instructor, who owned his own gym, stated "Lots of guys come to the gym and stay for less than 30 minutes. What exercises to they perform? Biceps! Triceps! And then they go home." The lesson here is, don't limit yourself to one muscle group (even if it's your favorite).

The spring-break rush is a popular time for college students (mostly females) to cram in a few gym sessions before strolling the beaches in their new Victoria Secret bikinis. From mid-February to roughly mid-March, gym regulars discover a surprising amount of SB newcomers. Instead of sweating out on their favorite elliptical, they'll have their patience tested while Sunshine Susie inserts her ear-buds and strides to the rhythm of Beyonce's latest hit song.

When the years of disciplined team training or a free college gym are over, one may ask, "what now?" Sure, going to the gym or running through the neighborhood takes dedication. If you're lucky, the local gym may be minutes away. Memberships aren't always pricey. Gyms often offer deals, family plans, and even discounts for senior citizens.

Just remember:

*Research has shown that exercise is a great activity to ward off depression.

*It improves the health of your heart, lungs, circulatory system, and can help prevent or delay diseases.

*Working out with friends is usually more fun. Plus, you and your pal can encourage each other to push for that extra half-mile, or strive for extra reps in the weight room.

*Exercise provides more than physical help. If you tell a person you've "had a great workout today....oh yes, I sweated a ton....." they will usually admire your stamina. Their admiration could be just what your ego needs to boost mentality and make you a better, more efficient person.

I fully intend to keep my fitness on par. How 'bout you?

In the Beginning...

This is me, branching out into the "modern world" in an attempt to hone writing skills and make the internet somehow less frightening. Yeah, it's true, I'm no expert with computers, nor do I know how to create a website. However, all that is about to change! I'm determined!