My friend Danielle convinced me a little over a month ago to sign up with her for a 10K she planned on doing. I have thought for a long time about how I'd like to do some sort of race to get into running but had never really given myself, or never gotten, that push to actually do it. This was a true testament to how well the buddy system works!
Anyway, knowing that I would be running more than I ever had before put that fire under my ass to get going and start training. Hard work really does pay off. Here's us girls at the end of our run.
Women do rock.
So why were all these negative thoughts coming to me afterwards...
Took you over an hour to finish...It was only 6.2 miles...So many women in better shape!...etc.
Might I say, wtf.
It took me longer than I'd like to admit to finally put an end to these thoughts. And it got me thinking, if I put as much time into feeling proud of myself, I'd be so much happier!
I think it's safe to say a lot of us probably discredit our accomplishments in lieu of being humble and not wanting to seem full our ourselves (whether this is in your head OR aloud). While I'm not suggesting we all turn into assholes, you have the right to be happy and proud of yourself.
As I'm working on taking my own advice, you should too. When you face a challenge, no matter how big or small, own the fact that you stepped up and did whatever it took to get there!
Up on deck, half marathon!
At the grocery store this week, I had two experiences that caused me to leave with a smile on my face. You may think it was due to some new and exciting food purchases, but that wasn't the case.
Experience #1
I've heard some great things recently about watermelon, so naturally, I'm standing at the...stand of watermelons...trying to pick me a good one. I should probably mention that my way of figuring out if it's a good watermelon, is by holding it up to my ear (which occasionally requires some shoulder balance), and knocking on it to see if it sounds hollow.
*Side note: I have no idea where I learned this trick, nor do I know if it has any real indication of the yumminess of the melon. I tend to take advice that, at times, makes me look like an idiot. For example, my Mom once caught me holding my phone and pushing it up and out like you would a fishing pole. Duh, fishing for service I told her. She sadly laughed and looked at me with that, 'what am I going to do with you?', type of look and explained that whoever told me that was probably screwing with me. I swear though, there's times when it gets me an extra bar.
Anyway, an older woman came up behind me to ask if I knew how to tell when I watermelon is good. I think you get where this is going. So basically, we're just standing there laughing, chatting, and knocking on watermelons, for what was realistically no more than a few minutes. But it was so fun.
Experience #2
When I finally made it to the register with all my yums, the cashier smiled and asked how I was doing. You may say this is normal. But sometimes don't you feel like when someone asks you that, they couldn't actually give two shits about how you are? SHE DID. We went on talking about how movies, how our weekends were, and it was so fun.
Yes, those are my experiences that made me smile. Give me a minute to explain a little more as to why.
I think we frequently forget that the random people we interact with on a daily basis are real people, too, and that you can successfully find a connection with someone, no matter how big or small that connection may be - even if it is over a watermelon. I think we also forget, when in the hustle and bustle of our days, how important it is (and did I mention fun?), to
be kind and genuine.
Everyone, myself included, seems to always have a reason as to why they are having a crappy day. Mine was that the devils I nanny for were driving me nuts. And it may just be the crazy idealist in me that's talking, but I truly think if more people were just nice, and took the time to appreciate the little things like this, that we'd all have better days...and dare I say, a better world?
Although it was the small matter of knocking watermelons with a stranger and dishing with a cashier, these two tiny little interactions were big enough to remind me that your day can always turn around if you let it.
So put a smile on your face, and make the world a better place.
As a trip that was much anticipated all summer, we have just returned from a very fun weekend at my roommate's cabin. You may imagine that it was filled with the typical cabin activities: boating, bonfires, mallow-roasting, dancing juice, etc. And that it was. A blast and a half, some may call it. And while I came away with memories that will last me a lifetime (and a red, peeling nose), the cabin has left me feeling something else: FEAR.
Hence my realization of how brilliant the small town, cabin, woodsy scenes are for horror movies.
Picture this; creepy, somewhat abandoned looking motels, dark and desolate woods, winding pitch black roads, and very little cell phone service. Eeeshk, get me outta here before someone comes along and kills us off one by one.
Let's take a look, in no particular order, at a few movies that take advantage of this perfect setting.
Vacancy
A young couple, played by Kate Beckinsale and Luke Wilson, stop to stay at the creepiest looking motel they could possibly find in a small, creepy town. Mistake number one - weird innkeeper shows them to what I assume to be a bedbug infested room, where they quickly realize they are trapped as victims of a potential snuff film.
There you go. You've got the small town, woodsy area where no one but absolute psychos are waiting. I bet the next time you think about taking a shortcut off the Interstate, you'll say 'nahhh.'
Cape Fear
Why don't we just start off with this (and my opinion that the title says it all):
Could Robert De Niro look any creepier?
I debated whether or not to include this one in my list, but it takes place in yet again, a small town, and one of the most epic scenes occurs on a cabin-like boat (warning: this is a bit of a stretch).
Without giving too much away, defense attorney Sam Bowden (Nick Nolte), screwed over his guilty client, Max Cady (De Niro), fourteen years ago by hiding evidence that may have helped him win his trial. Cady becomes lean and mean in jail and gets prepared to make Bowden and his family's life a living hell. Rob man does an excellent job of scaring the poop outta me when he lurks outside the Bowden's home saying, "come out come out wherever you are...." AHH! See it now.
Cabin in the Woods
This movie is an interesting one. I don't know if I can technically call it scary, but it's got a lot of those surprising scenes that make you jump out of your seat. Even though you simply know there can't be anything good behind that trap door they're about to open, you think just maybe it won't freak you out. Think again.
Plus, and most importantly, it's got the essential aspect of two couples and an awkward fifth friend taking a trip to one of their relatives' cabins. They even stop at a run-down gas station on the way that immediately sends chills down your spine.
Also, Chris Hemsworth. Need I say more?
The Strangers
A movie that brings me back to my best friend's basement; this one is a classic, über-jump-in-your-seat-pee-your-pants, movie. A young couple heads to an isolated home for a little vacay. But guess what, they're not alone out there. Three very scary, very determined strangers find their way into the home and set off mental, "never head to a house in the woods where there is no one around" sirens.
Here's a frightening preview.
It's these kind of movies that make you yell things at the screen like, STAY IN THE HOUSE or DON'T LEAVE HER ALONE YOU DUMBASS, whilst hiding your face in a pillow.
Funny Games
Whether or not you've caught on to it, I have a slight MEGA-LARGE fear that someone out there in the world is without a doubt, trying to get me. So to be trapped in the woods, a cabin, or creepy motel, is essentially my worst nightmare because movies over time have ingrained in me that something sinister is bound to happen.
Enter Funny Games. I think this may be the most terrifying movie my Mom and brother have made me watch (ok, they didn't make me - I love scary movies). What goes from a nice family trip up to the vacation home to enjoy some R & R quickly turns to the most twisted and psychotic chain of events. It's along the same lines as "Saw;" you're thinking, what kind of sick f*#@ has it in them to think up this stuff?!
I don't even want to get into this movie farther because it's freaking me out. But if you're in the mood for a scary one, I highly encourage you to watch this and perhaps put on a diaper.
P.S. If you're like me and enjoy most movies (aside from that Chad Michael Murray/Hilary Duff fiasco, A Cinderella Story), go ahead and catch up on all these thrillers. If you tend to be a movie snob, you might want to proceed with caution on a few of them.
As I set my bag in the little cubby at the gym, and was about to pull out my two necessities, water and iPod, I realized I was 1 for 2. iPod was no where to be found. Let me just say, working out without music is essentially like going for a run and not having tennis shoes; it's possible, but incredibly difficult for me to get through. The thought of packing it up and going home momentarily crossed my mind, but then I remembered the power of mantras. (That and that it would have been very lame if to forgo a workout simply because I didn't have some tunes).
So I sucked it up, used a few mantras, and got in a great workout.
What are these mantras, you may ask. Basically it's just a motivational sentence that you say to yourself repeatedly. Use one when you're debating whether or not to head to the gym, or when telling yourself that you just can't workout today and will make up for it tomorrow. Or when you're on that last mile and feel like you need to quit. In other words, whenever you feel those excuses coming on.
A few of my favorites:
You don't have to workout, you GET to workout. I run to be fit, I run to be healthy, I run to be happy. With every stride, my legs grow stronger. I'll never regret working out. Suck it up, and just do it.
They may sound corny, but remember, you're just saying it in your head (and who gives a shit anyway!). Now make some of your own - it can be anything that inspires you! Make your mantras more powerful than your excuses and get moving.
WHOA. Check out those elephants on the blog. Shall we address them?
Yes, it is true...I have been a major slacker when it comes to Organized Chaos. Hope you haven't been shedding too many tears over my absence. As summer is winding down, I am finding myself thinking more and more about how much I miss blogging! With that said, it is my plan to keep this better updated so you all have something to look forward to [wink].
Just a quick update. Over the past two months, my service year with the Minnesota Reading Corps has ended and I am living the good life as a part-time nanny/part-time stylist at Hot Mama (emphasis on the second "ma")/part-time pool rat, which is my excuse for being so absent. Who wants to be typing away when they could be out catching rays? Does that work for you?
The other news that I'd like to share, is that I was offered a position for next year as an Associate Educator in the kindergarten classrooms; where I'll be spending another year having fun with the little stinkers. Yay, very exciting!!
With a new job, lack of sunlight and cold weather on the horizon, and a mind that is set to keep blogging, I'll be seeing you.
I've never been one that adapts well to change. With that said, the last day of school and the few following have been interesting. Don't get me wrong, I'm loving my time off, but it hasn't hit me yet that I won't be receiving some hugs on Monday and giggling at the ridiculous things elementary school students say.
I'd love to showcase some cute pictures of a few *cough cough* favorite students, but that isn't exactly legal. So instead here's the tiny, yet amazing desk I got to work at everyday.
It's like I was never there. Wah!
What will I do with all those beautiful works of art, you may ask. Well, the pack rat that lives within me has them sitting on the floor in our living room. Decisions, decisions.
I have some great memories to look back on and am really looking forward to a new year with new kindergartners! But for now, it's time to enjoy the summatime.
I just know you've been on the edge of your seats waiting to hear what natural/organic products I decided to try first and their reviews. Well wait no longer, my friends. I have news about two new products that I've been trying for a couple weeks.
For the past couple months, adult acne has been my Everest. And I wouldn't wish that upon my worst enemy. Anyway, whenever I can find a product that doesn't result in my face resembling a pepperoni pizza, I've considered my purchase a success. And luckily, both of these products fall under that category.
On the left we have 'Yes to Tomatoes: Repairing Acne Lotion.' I got this at Target and they have a bunch of 'Yes to...' products (I'm really excited to try their body lotion - it smells amazing). It's paraben-free and claimed to be 98% natural, which is pretty good for the price. This lotion has a consistency that I wouldn't really put in the lotion category; it's more of a serum. I use it at night after I cleanse and tone and I really like it. It contains salicylic acid, which is supposed to help with acne. Woo. Definitely recommend trying it if you're looking for a nighttime moisturizer.
On the right is 'Korres Yogurt Cream.' I love this. I got this one at Sephora and although it's a tad pricey, I'm very satisfied and definitely will replenish it when I run out. No parabens, no sulfates, no synthetic dyes, no GMOs...wonderful. It contains Greek yogurt (and lots of other natural yum yums), which is said to provide instant hydration. I wear this in the morning after I cleanse and tone and it's been a great base for my makeup. It's super smooth, rich, and smells great. I was skeptical about it for that reason and thought it would might make me break out or cause my skin to be oily. Thus far, that has not been an issue. Knock on wood.
Stay tuned for more reviews as my chemical-filled drawers diminish!
Although it only accounts for about a third of my life, I originated in the Chicago area and have always thought in the back of my mind that I'd be interested in living there someday. My memories of the city are few and far between but I do fondly remember the Lincoln Park Zoo, Shed Aquarium, DA BULLS, and Lou Malnati's Pizza. Not to mention it's the home of some of my very favorite movies: Adventures in Babysitting, Home Alone, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, My Best Friend's Wedding, and Primal Fear (check 'em if you haven't already). So it was fun going back this past weekend as an actual adult and being in some familiar places, and some very new ones (including the COOLEST Walgreens in the world).
I think there is a lot to love about Chicago. It's very similar to NYC to me...lots of places to explore, and an energy that's undeniable. Two days was not enough. I was lucky enough to get to see the city from the 80th floor of the Aon building, where one of my friends works. It. Was. Awesome.
How can you not love these views?
If you get a chance to go and hang out in Chicago for a day/week/whateva, I highly suggest you jump on the opportunity. I'm already looking forward to my next visit!
Do they put me through both mental and physical pain?
Do I experience an emotional rollercoaster during every.single.game?
Do they provide false hope and frequently lose at the last minute?
Will I be forever attached to the Minnesota Golden Gophers?
The answer to all of the questions above is...yes. A very recent loss (as in mere minutes ago) to the Badgers has sparked my interest in the subject matter and what better a forum to discuss my thoughts than...my own blog, muahah. The Gophers have been disappointing me for the last four years, yet I seem to have a never-ending love and often wonder if along with my pink blood, there's some maroon and gold in this body of mine. I went so far as dressing like a gopher to a game once. I've never been a fair weather fan and I don't plan to start anytime soon. I must say however, are you ever going to fucking win?
Games like this make me wonder if they (and I should clarify, I am mainly referring to the basketball team) have adapted to a, "give the fans what they expect" mindset, as opposed to a, "give the fans what they want" mindset. If in fact this is the case, these neck and neck games make a great deal of sense. And at this point, I'd like to say to the Gophers : change your damn mindset because us fans are sick and tired of being heartbroken. You have the skillz, it's time to use them and finish the game right.
A great game this was, if I remember correctly. But in proper Gopher fashion, it resulted in an L. #waitingtowin.
I've recently realized that I never really do anything exciting. As I have mentioned previously, my life has morphed into one big routine and I rarely break away from it - can you say, borrrring? And as fun as going out can still be (hollaaa - SHOTS), I'm on the quest for something more. Perhaps you can relate. When I hear people talking about fun shit that they do, I get really jealous. So when a fun Crowd Cut for snow tubing graced my inbox, I figured there's no better time than the present and what a perfect way to quench my thirst for some adrenaline. Woo!
On Friday a group of us hit the slops. Twas a blasty blast. If you haven't tried snow tubing, I highly recommend you do before this winter vanishes from our sights. Stomach sliding, going dubs, it's all good fun.
It's hard to get the idea from this photo so here's one that better demonstrates the monstrosity of these hills.
I know...we're cray.
I'd graciously accept any suggestions you have for group activities. Summer will be here soon enough and I want to really take advantage of all the exciting things Minneapolis has to offer! My last question though...is it a matter of space we need for activities? Is it possible that if my roommates and I build bunks like Dale and Brennan, that our problems will be solved? Hmm...
When I started this blog mere days ago, I naturally told all my best gal pals (FOLLOW ME, BETCHES). My friend Ellen retorted, "I just don't get blogs, aren't they basically like, online diaries?" To which I wanted to respond, "Yes, Ellen. In fact, I am going to chronicle the date, time, and location of my every bowel movement." Because Ellen isn't a fan of this type of gross, sarcastic humor, I made the mature decision not to taunt her. However, I do think that under certain conditions, Ellen is indeed correct. A personal blog has aspects of an online diary. And on that note, my story begins.
About a month ago, the ancient Trooper that I had been driving started acting up. So my wonderful parents offered a trade. I switched cars with my Pops and am now driving a fully functioning Saturn. Or so I thought. Upon using the CD system for the first time, I was left in disappointment. Damn thing stopped working somewhere around track 5. I tried so many different CDs and concluded that perhaps, this is simply karma telling me I need to stop burning CDs and actually give the starving artists out there their just reward.
I was browsing the music section at Target in hopes of outfitting my new wheels with some new (and legal) jams. My number one pick:
I think it's only fair to thank my parents for introducing me to James, Sweet Baby James.
Also purchased Mission Bell by Amos Lee and the Best of Eric Clapton...excitingggg! So I get in my car, ready to jam. Karma is back on track and I. Am. Pumped. I was on track 5 and things were going swell...thought I was home free. Wahhh, wahhh. Somewhere in the middle of belting "How Sweet It Is" came silence. Vat the hell? Turns out it's a matter of ejecting, reinjecting (?), and being patient. Although my plan was to return the CDs if the car turned out to be faulty, I'm one of those gets-so-excited-and-opens-everything-right-away (!!!) people. So if you feel like listening to some E.C., A.L., or J.T., you know who's got the CDs. I'm still hoping it'll just all of a sudden decide to stop this cat and mouse game with me and let me enjoy my tunes. We'll see.
I'll leave you with one of my favorites. If you don't love James Taylor now, I'm guessing you will by the end of this song. Soothe, baby, soothe.
Perfect opportunity to introduce one of my besties (OMG). Last night we did some fine dining at one of my most fondly remembered bars of thy college days, Burrito Loco (aka, Loco, Blowco, etc.). We all decided food was necessary on the side of our dranks and each decided to order our smorgasbord. Well...Molly got the largest item on the menu known to mankind.
Sweet hay-zeus! The picture doesn't even do this justice. These nachos were gargantuan. I tend to make fun of Molly pretty frequently (for multiple reasons) because she gets full after approximately 3.5 bites. Therefore, this wasn't exactly the most practical decision she's ever made. Needless to say, there's plenty of leftovers in our refrigerator now - muahaha. See ya later, nachos.
Blogging. Tis the new thing...or so I'm told. My best friend has been my inspiration. After reading her blog for a few months now (and anxiously awaiting new posts on a daily basis), I figured, why not? I've been feeling a bit like a pile ever since graduating last May and it's almost as if my brain has begun to decay. So perhaps this is one way I can attempt to keep it sharp. On top of that, my life after my work day consists of nothing exciting. My day goes something like this: wake up, work, workout (mossst days), eat, watch some trashy TV, and hit the sheets...repeat. Hopefully this will add a little somefin' somefin' to mi vida and keep my creative juices flowing.
Just a few things about me to get the blog-a-going. I am a recent (how long is it acceptable to say recent for when you graduated in May?) graduate of the University of Minnesota and currently serving for the Minnesota Reading Corps. What is that, you may insightfully ask. I'll get to it later. I'm a big fan of the usual stuff (the "ussg" as I like to call it)...doing fun shit with my friends, eating, sleeping, working out. The ussg. Other than that, I really enjoy being sarcastic (hopefully if you follow this you'll learn to sense the tone), speaking in an accent to my Mom and to any friends that will tolerate it, trying to expand my repertoire of cooking abilities, and perfecting my singing voice.
I'm kind of going at this with an open mind and want to write about anything and everything that strikes a chord with me. A good amount will probably have to do with what was mentioned above. But stay tuned, I'm an 'anything can happen' kind of girl.
This friend of mine, by the way, has an amazing blog (as previously stated). And I encourage anyone who is reading mine tocheck hers out as well. She da bomb.
As my Grandpa says (every.single.time. I've ever spoken with him on the phone), bye for now.
.jpg)
