Stories from Puerto Rico

I really thought that I would be able to post more often than I have, but the internet in house that we are staying in hasn’t been working!  Honestly, the woman who we rented this house ought to be slapped in the face by every person in this house and then she needs to rewrite the description for the house.  Hell, I’ll rewrite the description for her!  Here it is:

Beautifully structured house on the beach.  The inside isn’t bad looking either, but that’s about it.  The toilet leaks, EVERYTHING is damp 24/7 and the bottom of your feet will be dirty from the moment you turn the shower off until the time you get back in.  The windows don’t shut all the way in most of the rooms in the house and one of the bedrooms is a rainforest with exotic bugs living in there.  Please don’t count on the air conditioning to work all of the time.  The kitchen may or may not have a light in there…I seemed to have forgotten if there is a light switch in there.  Let me know if you find it!  On the plus side, the view of the beach is absolutely breathtaking!  It doesn’t matter the time of day with three balconies to enjoy the view.  You may even catch a worker or two taking a bath in the ocean while you are eating your breakfast! 

Please know that I have not exaggerated one bit!  Okay, I will leave the owner alone, but not until I say this one last thing:  If you are renting your house out, please CLEAN IT!  Your tenants don’t need to find bloodstains on their bed. 

Moving on…

After realizing that there wasn’t much going on in Hatillo on Saturday, we wandered over to Old San Juan, which is about an hour east.  We made it in time to do a little bit of shopping before the shops closed and make a note to self to come back and see some of the historical spots.  We decided to have dinner here and try a popular dish out here called mofongo, which is mashed plantains with almost any kind of meat that you could want covered with a garlic sauce.  So we checked out this restaurant call Lupis and I swear every person we asked swore that the mofongo was great here.  Let me just tell you now: THEY LIED!  I ordered mine with chicken and it wasn’t too bad.  My sister and her mini me said the grouper and shrimp one was as close to good as this place could get.  $150 later, all seven of us walked out feeling almost disappointed.  Maybe that was our fault.  Maybe we should have stuck to the small roadside carts or shops for these kinds of dishes.  Or maybe we shouldn’t have trusted the word of a kid who was allergic to half of the menu.  Again, maybe it’s just me!

Sunday, we attempted to find the Rio Camuy Caves, which turned out to be 20 minutes away from us, but were turned away because the tours had ended for the day.  We were told to come back on Monday so we went home to relax and plan the next day.  While the rest of the family played in the water, I went back to reading the latest Jeffrey Deaver book, The Burning Wire, which is pretty much brilliant.  Later, Jay and I took the giggling duo to Subway to grab dinner for the family and can I just say that it is almost amusing to see the look on people’s faces when we say that we need seven sandwiches?!  I will say that this girl handled herself extremely well, especially since English wasn’t her first language and she was running the store alone!

Monday seemed to go a little better mainly because we had the day planned out.  We got up and went to the caves, which were amazing!  As city folks, I don’t think we really take the time to check out the natural wonders around us.  The cave that we toured was huge and other than the walkway, was completely untouched by man.  I think since I was so awestruck, the idea that there were bats, no matter how harmless they were, were flying around over my head didn’t faze me.  On our way back, we stopped at this restaurant that one of the guys from the caves told us about and tried the mofongo again and it was WAAYYYYYY better!  

Pork Mofongo

Also, another thing that we noticed is that that people in the smaller towns were a lot nicer and had a bit more patience for us ignorant English speakers.  (How dare we come to Puerto Rico and not speak Spanish?!)  A couple in there came over and chatted with us and told us about different places to visit while we were here before helping the kid take our orders.  This alone slightly changed our, well my, view of the people here.   I think Mom said it the best.  Here people aren’t judged by their skin color like they are in the U.S., but by whether or not they can speak the language.  I can’t even tell you how many times we have been laughed at when we say that we don’t speak a lot of Spanish.

Anyways, on our way back to the house, we passed a stand that sold pig roasted on a spit and Jay practically made Mom turn the car around.  While he, Tim, Jazmone and Hillary were waiting for the guy to cut off portions of the pig off, a car pulled up next to us and a couple got out and started talking to Mom and Dad while we were in the car!  Again, the people in the smaller towns are definitely friendlier than in the larger cities!  They stood there for a while just talking and when they finally left, we couldn’t believe how friendly they were. 

Instead of staying home we decided to head to Condado Beach and drop off the four younger ones while Mom, Dad and I went to San Cristobal in San Juan…at least that was the plan.  The closer we got toward the area, the harder it rained.  Instead, Mom and Dad walked around while the rest of us sat in the car.  Hillary was the only one awake and was looking around when the guy in the car next to us got out and started jacking off!  Hillary started waking the rest of us up and that is what we saw right before he sat down and whipped it out!  Before things got ridiculously out of hand, Jay got up out of his seat and scared the guy off.  Right around the time Mom and Dad came back, the guy did too.  SERIOUSLY though?!  I will never understand why people do the things that they do and maybe it’s not meant for me to and I can accept that!

San Cristobol was amazing!  It was an old fort built and rebuilt over the past several hundred years to defend San Juan, which was considered the gateway to Caribbean.  Whomever controlled Puerto Rico controlled most of the trade in this area.  This fort was definitely ahead of its time and the fact that it’s still standing is…wow!  From the top of this fort were amazing views of Old San Juan and the port.

 Views of Old San Juan

Tomorrow, the plan is to check out the rain forest...eeks!  That should be interesting!

A Picture from Today...

I'll post more when I can get a decent internet signal.

Light at the End of the Tunnel

So the past 48 hours didn't go as well as we had planned.  The first leg of the flight went perfectly....we arrived in Houston on time and everything!  That's when everything went to hell!

• Our flight was delayed...FOUR TIMES!!!!
• We lost our rental car due to the flight delays...the car rental place closed at midnight and we got to San Juan at 12:20 am!
• We were originally scheduled to arrive in San Juan at 9:22...need I say more?!
• After the woman, whose house we are renting, dropped off our keys at the airport, we managed to find a taxi sometime after 1:30
• An hour and $100 later, in the middle of an insane thunderstorm, we arrived at our rental house and can I say that I don't think anyone was really impressed! 
• There were bloodstains on my sheets, so I slept on top of all my blankets and somehow fell asleep in a storm that lasted until 10 something this morning!
• Still without a car and in between thunderstorms, Mom and I ran to Wal-Greens for water and stuff while Jay and Hill went to Quiznos for breakfast/lunch.  Let's just say that we didn't make it a block from the house before it started pouring!
• When we all went to take a shower, there were no wash clothes and one bar of soap for seven people to share!!
• While Hillary, Tim, Jay, and Jazmone were out playing in the water, Hillary slipped and fell on some coral! 
• All within 24 hours!

The way I see it, things will get better!  Time to enjoy my vacation!! 

Houston

The fam and I have been sitting at the Houston- Bush International Airport since 1:30 this afternoon and our flight has been delayed 4 times.  Is it because of the airport we're at or the airline?

Either way, I don't know how much longer I can look at this sign!

Location : Houston, TX 77066,

Here I come Hatillo!!!!

12 hours from now, I will be on a plane heading to Puerto Rico for 5.5 days!!!

 

• It's just hard to believe that we all booked the tickets to go over four months ago...the time flew!

• There will be commentary on my twitter page during the whole trip!

Friday Night Ramblings

So I spent the past two hours fighting sleep and reading all of my previous posts/ thoughts.  There were several times where I really wondered what the hell I was thinking when I was writing some of it and wondered why my friends actually let me post some of that!  I mean, a lot of what I've posted on here in the last 13 months have been pretty random.  A part of me feels like this is the one place that I can be truly honest and say what I need to say without judgment.  Like how I have been stuck on Robin Thicke's music lately...I mean, this guy can SING!  (Don't judge!)  That's what I'm talking about!  Other times, I couldn't believe that I had actually written that. 

Anyway, I feel like I should fess up and say this: No, I will not be posting anymore chapters of my book on here.  What I have posted up to this point will not be taken down only because most of it has been rewritten or deleted, so I guess it really doesn't matter.  I say this mainly because the second half looks way better than the first.  (Again, don't judge!  That's just how my mind works.) Yes, I am still working on my book...I promise! 

Just over 5 days until vacation!!  Anyone want to pack my suitcase for me?!  If you don't already know, I am a procrastinator, but I am really going to try my hardest to get everything packed by Tuesday night.  *FINGERS CROSSED*

This week, I started missing Bones and felt like a kid on a rainy day!  Amy said to go back and watch the reruns.  Sorry, but that would make it worse!!  I will say that I am NOT the craziest Bones fan out there, which makes me feel great!  This girl is insane, but if you need a good laugh and miss the Show like I do, read her live journal entries.  She has not failed me yet! ;o)

Okay, I know that I have said that I was so freaking sick of hearing about LeBron James and the media wondering where he would end up going now that he is a free agent, BUT I have  few things to say about this.  I will say that I have never been a fan of his.  Maybe its because he was drafted right out of high school and was was given the nickname "King James" or that he was barely 18 and a franchise was being built around him.  Could it have been both of these reasons plus the Nike endorsement worth $90 million that he got before he even played his first NBA game?  I would say it was that.  The guy is not a freaking god, but the way that league and the media seemed to hyping him up, you would think he was.  He is talented, yes....he is the best player that the Cleveland Cavaliers have ever had on the roster, of course!  Is he worth the god like status? Um no!  

Anyways, as much as he makes me want to puke, I think how the owner of the Caveliers did him was kinda wrong with the open letter after James announced that he would be moving to Miami.  Yes, he could have called the owner and let him know of his decision, but that was extremely uncalled for and childish!  I know that there was probably more going on that the public may not know about, but I feel like that definitely could have been handled more "adult-like".  No wondered why James acted the way he has the past few years!  I'm just sayin'!

Okay, I think I've rambled enough...

Wednesday Randoms

Today, I asked my "kids" (interns, but that's what they call themselves) if they had any ideas on what I should write about today and one of their ideas was to talk about how awesome it was to go back to my old job or as Andie put it, "back to ma favorite territory with ma bff Amy!"  If you haven't caught on yet, these two definitely keep me entertained whenever they are around.  Since it is kinda random, amusing even, I had to go with that idea.  (So thanks, Jill and Andie!)

• Let me just say that the move back to Appointments was extremely shady and that is all I will say on that!
• This was the fastest job change in the history of job changes!  I was told about it at the end of the day on Friday and started this morning....Again, I will leave it at that!
• It was nice to get my life back!  Walking out of the building with Amy shortly after 5:00....definitely didn't happen when I was in Scheduling.  I'm just saying!
• It's a little sad leaving my "kids" in Scheduling...I was asked over and over if I could come back.  Sorry, kids!  :o(
• It felt like I never left.
• And can I just say how excited I am to have my own office?!  (My old boss didn't even have one!!!)
• I have yet to answer the phones without asking, "Scheduling.  How may I help you?"  It's going to take a second.
• I was actually asked if I left Scheduling because I got sick of waiting on memos everyday!  Would you think any less of me if I said yes?  
• When I walked into my new office, please tell me why there were pics of Governor Engler all over the place? 
• Can you tell that I am soooooo happy to be gone?!

Happy Independence Day

 I know that I am a little late in posting this, but yesterday was insane!

You know, when I started this post yesterday, I expected to write about how my family works and no matter how different family members feel about the traditions changing, the need to be together don't.  (Although it is a beautiful thing!)  Then I considered venting about how my holiday was stolen from me, but I thought better of it.  So I thought today would be a list of randoms from this past weekend! 

• Could anything be better than a three and half day weekend? (Maybe four, but I say take what you can get!)
• The weekend was insanely hot, but after the winter we had this year, we deserve it
• Really glad that most of the families in my parent's neighborhood were gone, because there were large gatherings three nights in a row!
• Got to see most of the family throughout the weekend and believe me, that does NOT happen very often!
• Most of the family wanted to spend the holiday at Bay City Park, but Mom put her foot down and said no.  In response to this, my Uncle Dave said, "Well, if you don't want to go there, then we'll bring the party to you!" And let me just tell you, they did!  HA!
• I hate shopping, but I actually had fun with the siblings over the weekend.
• Spent more time in the sun than I have in a while and a nice tan to show for it! ;o)
• Less than 10 days until vacation! :o)
• Short week this week!! 

Random Note

Someone asked me this week how my book was coming along and I actually had to pause.  I was able to tell them that I rewritten the second half and I actually love it, which is extremely shocking for me.  The person went on to ask me when I was going to take the next step and I have to admit that it felt like the room temperature jumped up about 30 degrees.  (Since I know that not very many people read this blog, I feel like I can say this here.)  I almost told the person that the reason why it has taken me so long to take the final plunge and get serious about finding a publishing company is because I am terrified.  

Yes, people, I said it!  I. AM. TERRIFIED!  I am scared to see what I had spent so much time writing in print and out there for other people to read.  I mean, yeah, I have posted  chapters on here and had a couple people read my book, but I'm talking about it being available to the public!  That thought alone scares the living hell out of me!  

I honestly couldn't even tell you what excuse I gave this person, but the conversation alone has been nagging at me.  I know that this is ridiculous, but it's true.  

Where Has the Real Music Gone

Anyone who knows me knows that I am passionate about a few things other than my family and friends.  Music, basketball, writing and traveling to name a few, but I think I'll focus on music for now.  I come from a family where music is a constant.  Often times, it is the first thing that it turned on and the last to be turned off at night.  For me, music was introduced to me before I was born.  Mom said that she would play classical music while she was pregnant with me.  Also, sometimes when they were trying to put me to sleep as a baby, my parents would put me in the baby swing, put those huge headphones on me and press play.  They said it did the trick...I don't doubt them.  Even now, music is the only thing that can really calm me down. 

So there is the mini story to my slight obsession with music.  On to the real reason I started this posting.

At work, I like to keep my earphones on to drown out the constant noise of the office and concentrate and to maintain a small dose of sanity during the day.  Most of the people that come through are used to seeing me with them in and question me if my earphones are missing.  What can I say?  My earphones have become a part of me! 

Friday, while I was talking to the interns in my office, one of them asked what kind of music I listened to.  Instead of giving her an answer, I just handed her my mp3 player and focused on my computer screen knowing that there would be a few comments coming my way soon.  And I was right!  The music on my mp3 player ranges from rap to country to alternative to R&B.  I will never put classical music on there because its almost too relaxing.  She commented on this and I had to tell her that I get extremely bored with music.  

After all of this, I got to thinking about the music that came out while I was growing up.  It has definitely changed over the years, as well as the quality of it.  At one time, an artist was expected to have talent in order to snag a record deal, but now, as I read somewhere, someone only needs "a pulse" and I can't help but agree.  When I was younger, Tevin Campbell, Whitney Houston, Luther Vandross, Aaliyah and plenty of others were on the radio and to me, this was music.  These artists were truly talented and released albums that I constantly go back to time and time again.  Now the radio is playing music by Ke$ha, Sean Kingston and Rhianna, all who I would only consider entertainers with no real talent in the music world.  Yeah, they tell a good story, but I can honestly say that they will not go on to become legends.

To me, hip hop and r&b have become so disappointing that it's almost not even worth listening to.  There are a few that are still worth a listen, like Usher, Alicia Keys, Musiq to name a few, that have continued to come through.  Due to the lack of creativity and talent, I have begun to look to other genres to satisfy my need for good music and there is plenty of it out there.  

All of this made me wonder: There are campaigns to help Haiti and the AIDS epidemic.  If there are people out there who feel like I do, shouldn't there be a campaign out there to save the music from these fake "artists"?  

Maybe I'm rambling a little, but it's just a thought....

Dad's and Their Influence on Us

Warning: If you don't really want a history lesson, please move on!  Kthanxbai! 

Yesterday at church, the pastor was preaching about the influence that dad's or fathers have on their kids.  This influence could shape the child for the better or for worse.  He gave three examples of father's who's influence changed history.  (Yes Mom, I really do pay attention to what the pastor is saying in church!!!)  Each of these men we all have heard of.  The first man was Heinrich.  He was a devote Jew before he became a Lutheran so that he would be taken a little more seriously as a lawyer.  He wanted his son, Karl Marx, to follow in his footsteps and become a lawyer because this was a more practical career, but to his dismay, Karl wanted to study philosophy and literature.  To make a long story short, Marx's writings would later start become a strong influence and create the Communist Party. 

The second father that was talked about was Alois.  Records tell us that he was a very strict man and would often beat his son, Adolf.  It is said that Adolf Hitler told his assistant that at one point during these beatings, he grew numb and started to count the blows.  Workers said that when he would sleep, they would hear him counting to thirty, which is consistent to the 30 blows his father would deliver during his regular beatings.  What seemed to be the weirdest thing is that everything that Hitler hated about the world could be found in his family.  As we all know, he went on to create the Nazi Party and kill over 11-14 million people who were not of the Aryan race.  All of those who were not perfect.  I wonder if Alois knew that his extremely tough child rearing skills would result in the Holocaust. 

The third father that the pastor talked about was King David from the Old Testament of the Bible.  It was said that he was a man after God's heart, but at home, this guy was a mess!  He had four sons and three of them were killed!  (I am not going to go into the whole story about this.)  His son, Solomon, who he actually made it a point to sit down with, would later become king.  One of the wisest and richest kings in history, I might add.  The Bible says that David actually sat down with his son and taught him everything that he knew.  Unlike the first two fathers, David actually made time for his son and and was a real dad to him.  Could it really be that simple?  In this case, yes.

I think what I am getting at is that dad's have more of an influence than we sometimes think.  Boys look to them to figure out who they would want or not want to become and girls look at them to see what kind of man they want to marry one day.  This is assuming that their dad's are a good influence on them.  There are also some dad's who look at the example that they had growing up with and want to do better and make sure other kids don't have to go through what they did.  I look at my dad and know I got a good one for sure!

I know that I am a little late in this posting, but after the service yesterday, I didn't think that the original posting would have said what I needed to say.  So to all of the great dad's out there, keep up the great work!  Even though society doesn't always see how truly amazing you are, the rest of us do! 

Happy Belated Father's Day, Dad! :o)

No Words!

As we all know, I am insanely in love with this crazy sport that we call basketball.  I mean everything about it!  The screeching of the shoes on the waxed floor as plays are being made, the yelling between players reminding their teammates that they are open, the look of determination in the players eyes, the swishing sound the net makes.  I could go on for days, but I won't.  

There is a reason for me bringing up all of this.

Right now, the NBA Finals are on and Boston Celtics and LA Lakers are going head to head.  This is the 12th time that these teams have met up in the Finals.  When these two teams met up in 2008, the Celtics had something to prove since they had the best record in the league that year and hadn't been in the Finals in years.  The Lakers, or should I say Kobe, had a point to make.  They could take home the championship trophy without Shaq.  Unfortunately, that didn't happen.  Boston shut down Kobe and his Lakers and went on to become the NBA Champs.  In my opinion, they deserved it.  

Sunday, the two teams met up for game 5 tied 2-2 in Boston.  I had mixed emotions about that game.  Boston has the ability to shut down the opposing teams and run with it, but they didn't.  They came into the game making so many mistakes, but managed to stay in the game because of 2 things: their defense which knocked the Lakers off their game and the Lakers low shooting percentage.  The Celtics bench also kept the team in the game, which is great to see.  

Unfortunately, the same mistakes that the Celtics made Sunday night were being made last night.  They had two things working against them.  One, they were no longer in Boston and the Lakers are always a more confident team when playing at home.  Two, they weren't making their shots and their turnovers were hurting them so bad.  Losing their big man Kendrick Perkins in the first half was devastating, especially since this was a big game.  Usually, when something like this happens, the rest of the team should shake this off and move on; prove to the other team that no matter what, they were still in the game.  That's what should have happened!  

Instead, Boston didn't rebound the ball, which meant their chances for second chance shots went out the window, they didn't defend and left the Lakers sharp shooters wide open and they didn't make the extra passes.  Unlike previous games where a player would pass up a good shot for a better shot, someone would jack up a three and miss it.  A few times, it looked like the Celtics actually handed the Lakers the ball and said, "Please go and make a three point shot!"  To make matters worse, this was all only in the FIRST HALF!!!!  I was so upset that I turned off the TV during halftime and watched the last bit of the 3rd quarter before calling it quits since Boston seemed to have done the same.  Sigh

So here it is: Boston get your act together, this next game is a must win!  Get it together!  I really don't want to see Kobe win it again!  He already makes me sick...he doesn't need another championship ring. 

Despite how horribly they played last night, I still say

LET'S GO, BOSTON!!!!!

My Night in Kalamazoo

On Monday night, I was blown away and honored even to have the opportunity to watch a group of kids graduate from Kalamazoo Central High School.  These kids are now a part of history and I'm pretty sure they knew this as they walked into the Western Michigan Arena that night.  Attending the first public high school in Michigan to open its doors 150 years ago...not enough.  Okay.  Being able to go to college for free just because you graduated from Kalamazoo public schools due to the Kalamazoo Promise Scholarship...still not enough.  Interesting.  Being able to win the Race to the Top Contest that beat out thousands of schools around the nation... Still not enough?  Let's try this: Having the President of the United States of America deliver the commencement speech for your class and congratulating you when walk across that stage.

Can I say amazing?  Inspiring?  A part of history?  This would all only make sense to say.

After spending hours making sure that things ran smoothly on the governor's end of the program, I was given the opportunity to attend.  That day taught me never to depend solely on Google maps, because for the second time in the last month, I have gotten lost using their directions!  Please know, for me to say this means a lot since I am all about Google!  I mean, my phone (which is pretty much amazing) is through Google, I'm using Google docs to finish writing my book, I am a freaking walking billboard and yes, Blogger is through Google...could I be anymore dedicated to this company?!  I mean, I could be, but that's beside the point.  

I'm straying away from the real reason I started this entry in the first place.

When I stepped onto that bus that took me from where I parked my car to the Arena, I could already feel that sense of excitement around me.  Everyone on that bus could barely sit still for the 5 minute bus ride and honestly, I couldn't blame them.  Unlike the other passengers though, I was antsy for a completely different reason.  This had been the first "federal" event that I had ever managed for the governor and if anything got screwed up, it was on me!  The pressure!  Anyway, when I stepped off that bus to find one of the people from the office, (thank goodness for cellphones, because they made the search so much easier!) and was relieved to find that part of what I was worried about was under control.  Although, I don't understand this situation: when someone tells you to be somewhere BY 6:00 because security will be a mess, shouldn't you be there by 5:55?!  Just my thought on the whole thing!

Moving on!  Once I got through security, which really was slightly crazy, I walked around to make sure everything was still under control before going to find my seat.  It really did suck that all of my co workers were sitting up front, 3 rows from the stage, but I really do think that my seat in the 14th row is where I needed to be.  You see, the people that I spent most of my Saturday talking to on the phone or texting were sitting up there.  So for me to match faces to names and voices before commencement was great.  My thought on the whole thing was at least I was there!  

When the event started and people finally stopped cheering for the president, the superintendent welcomed everyone before stepping aside for the principal of Kalamazoo Central High School.  Having already gone through whole school thing, I can tell what makes a great teacher of school official.  The great ones are not in the business to make money, they really do care about each and every student that walks into their class and will do everything in their power to make sure the students succeed.  Not all teachers are like that, but I think that could be true for those two administrators that night.  When the principal spoke that night, the pride in his voice was so clear.  

Before that night, I had not seen the video that the school had submitted for the Race To The Top contest and even now, I think I made the right choice.  Several times during this video, I had to remind myself that these were high school kids.  The video told the history of the school and about the amazing students who attended Kalamazoo Central.  For some reason, I hadn't realized who culturally diverse this school was.  Over 51% of the school was African American and the next highest was Hispanic.  Wow!  They also pointed out that because of the Kalamazoo Promise, many of these students would be the first in their family to go on to college.

If that doesn't get you a little choked up, I don't know what will.

When the principal introduced the president, the crowd went crazy.  I mean, yes, people were there to support this amazing group of kids, but come on!  It's the president!  I loved that he stopped his speech to respond to a "We love you" from the crowd and commented on the fact the salutatorian couldn't run for office until he was 35.  Every part of his speech, to me, was amazing.  He thanked the anonymous donors for their contribution to the Kalamazoo Promise and told the kids that since they will never be able to pay them back, to pay it forward; continue to serve.  He also told that them that no matter what they did, not to make excuses.  Toward the end of his speech, he recited a quote from Theodore Roosevelt that has been stuck in my head ever since.

Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.

Kalamazoo may not be the richest city in the state, but the people there are doing what they can by educating their youth and instilling values at an early age, by using their desire to help the community around them in the Kalamazoo area.  

In his speech, he quoted a student of the school who said that their school was never recognized for what they do.  In response to this, he said:

Well, Kelsey, Class of 2010, members of the Kalamazoo community, I’m here tonight because after three rounds of competition, with more than a thousand schools, and more than 170,000 votes cast, I know -- and America knows -- what you’ve done at Kalamazoo Central.  You are amazing!  We know.  We know.  Our amazing Secretary of Education Arne Duncan knows.  Folks in Washington know, folks across the country know, and hopefully after tonight, everybody knows.

 Yes they do!

He also said this:

And I’m told that soon after the Promise was established, a first grader approached the superintendent at the time and declared to her:  “I’m going to college.”  First grader.  “I’m going to college.  I don’t know what it is, but I’m going.”

 Could that be anymore amazing?!  

Instead of continuing to quote his speech, I'll just say that it was amazing!  Read it for yourself if you don't believe me!

Someone asked me what the best part of that night was and honestly, I couldn't give them a straight answer.  It was the excitement, the pride, the idea that this amazing group of kids came together to bring the President of the United States to speak at their commencement or just the mere fact that I had the honor of attending this exciting event.  I have yet to talk to someone who could pinpoint the "best thing" about this night and maybe that's a good thing!  I don't think that could be done. 

I will say that I am soooooo sick of hearing about the kid who fell asleep during the president's speech and was caught on camera.  I guess I really don't understand why he is getting all of this publicity about it...he fell asleep!  He really should be ashamed of himself, but whatever!  Just my two cents.

Things Don't Always Go As Planned....

Life teaches us over and over that things or days, in this case, never go as planned.  Earlier this year, I thought I would be taking one more trip to Washington DC to visit Katie before she moves, but again, things change.  

Being that this weekend is Memorial Day weekend...a three day weekend, I thought it would be somewhat relaxing, but maybe not.  Today, the family and I, excluding Jay, went to Detroit to a family friends "family gathering".  Our two family's have known each other for the past 12 or so years, so it only seemed right that we would be included in this shindig.  A good chunk of these people I had either never seen before or hadn't seen in years, so let's just say that I was feeling slightly awkward at first. 

As people say, some things happen for a reason and I am a strong believer in this.  A year ago, I finished a book that I had been working on for several years and began researching publishers to see which ones were legit and which ones weren't.  Today, one of the women that came out for this picnic had published two books with one of the publishing companies that I had heard about.  Unfortunately, it was one of the many that had burned so many writers, this woman being one of them.

I had the opportunity to ask her a few questions about the publishing world and asked her what advice she would have for an unpublished aspiring writer.  Despite the fact that she didn't want to really continue writing, she said that she would not completely close the door to the idea and one day, she would consider republishing her two books through another company.  Can I just say that I was feeling slightly envious of her?

One thing that she said that really hit home was, "Why shouldn't we get paid to do something that we really enjoy?"  In this world, its all about what makes money, but what about what makes us happy?  If you're happy with what you do, won't the money follow?  I had to agree...we should be able to get paid to do what we enjoy, rather than be miserable and hope that one day we could earn a living doing something that we hate.

As I write this, I wonder how different my day could have been if I had stayed in Lansing today and hadn't met this woman.  I would not have known for sure if that particular publishing company screwed over writers looking to publish their masterpieces or that I knew someone who had actually published two books.  

Things don't always go as planned, but when they don't, I guarantee you that there is a pretty good reason why!

Season Finales

This week was tough for me as far as TV shows go.  First, Rob Lowe's character was killed off on Brothers and Sisters after his wife finally beats cancer!  SERIOUSLY?!  Come on!  Then, Monday on Castle, Kate Beckett FINALLY ditches her almost perfect person to see if things would work out with Richard Castle, the 10 year old on a sugar high aka a very popular mystery writer.  What does this idiot do?! He brings his ex-wife back into the picture to spend the summer with him at his house in the Hamptons in front of HER PEOPLE!  Moron!  Again, this I can get over...I think!

I still have a few more shows to hang on to, but it was Thursday that really got me.

Bones....There were two scenes that really got me.  Booth and Bones were sitting on a park bench with their coffee and she is telling him about this amazing opportunity somewhere far, far away for a year and wants to know how he would feel if she went.  Five years ago, she wouldn't give a damn what he thought....she would have packed her bags and disappeared.  He tells her that he will go back to the Army for a year to train some new soldiers in Afghanistan.  Its only a year, they say!  Maybe in that year, you, meaning Bones, will get over herself, but whatever.  The look on their faces here got me and I almost hated it. (Not really, but you get the point!)  At the end, Booth leaves that base that he is at to say good bye to Bones at the airport before they are officially separated for a year.  I have to admit, I did get a little choked up at this part.  They even picked a spot to meet up at a year "from now"!  They didn't hug or kiss, but I think the look that they gave each other and holding hands held more value that anything else.  Again, five years ago, wouldn't have happened! Bones is finally getting it.  Booth is her person and vice versa....It only took five freaking years! Sigh

Okay, let me take you children to school.  Bones "originally" started in an airport five years ago when Bones was coming back from some anthropological dig and Booth pulled some strings so that he was the one to pick her up.  These two hated each other, but she was not about to let him out into the field and leave her in the lab if she was going to be helping out on murder cases.  Five years later, things "end" in an airport, she is getting away from murders and he is going back into the Army to serve his country.  Season Six, hurry up and get here!  I want to see if they are really going meet up at their "spot"!  Besides, I don't know what I am going to do without this show for four and half months!!

Grey's was another one that I just, I don't know...It was intense.  Let's just say that.  I read this post written by the writer of Grey's and I was floored.  I think as followers, we often forget about how the show might affect the writers.  If we are screaming bloody murder when the gunman, who is walking around the hospital, grabs Dr. Bailey's leg and drags her out from under the bed, how are the writers reacting?  Are they losing sleep and crying nonstop out of frustration.  Are they telling themselves that there is no way that they will allow the most grounded person on the show be wounded, like we saw Alex Karev or Derek Shepard?  What about when Meredith realized she was pregnant?  I know I was happy...a Mcbaby!  What about when she miscarried right after she thought that Derek died (which he didn't, thanks to Christina) and she was dealing with Owen and his gun shot wound?  I almost cried for her there.  What about when Christina told Owen that they were done?  If we feel so close to these characters after six years, how do you think Shonda Rhimes, the writer feels?  

I will be the first to admit that I was a late comer to the Grey's party, but have been a fan since.  Not like Bones, but a fan.  Yeah, this was a sad finale, even more than when they lost O'Malley and almost lost Izzy, but it was definitely their best.  These two episodes showed how much each character has grown and changed for the better.  For once, even words couldn't completely describe how I felt about this episode, but I promise it was only positive!  So kudos and congrats to Shonda Rhimes for a a kick ass episode! 

For these lifelines, see you in the Fall and Fall, please hurry!!

One Helluva Week

This was one of those weeks that probably shouldn't have happened.  To keep it short: It SUCKED!  Each day, in its own different way.  Each day reminding me that I should have stayed in bed and pray that the next day would be the day I should get up to go to work.  For some odd reason, I didn't listen and now I regret it to some extent!

There was one great moment though, I promise!  I finished the second half of my book Wednesday evening and I was reminded of why I loved those characters.  Before the final chapter that was set six months in the future, my characters.....

Look, I know that I said that I would try not to give anything away about my book, but come on! This week sucked and...well, this is my blog and I can write whatever I please!  :o)  I do promise that what I am about to say will not spoil anything.


Back to what I was saying....


When Miles and Devyn were walking out of the jail after dealing with the serial killer that they were chasing, there was finally this sense of calmness and even now when I read it, I almost get that feeling that things will get better.  I also loved Miles' dedication to those around him, especially his partner.  I think we all have a Miles in our lives and if you don't, I really do feel sorry for you...you kind of need one!


Maybe that was my lesson for the week, month, year, lifetime.  It may not be just mine, but everyone's.  Just my thoughts!

What Else Is There?

So the week is finally over and can I just say that it took FOREVER?!  I mean, it really did and after seeing the preview for next weeks episode of Bones, I think next week might be even worse. 

Could we be any happier about the end of the scene?!  I couldn't! 

• For now, I have a few things to say about this past Thursdays episode. 

• Hodgins and Angela....It's about TIME!!!  I mean, they are finally finishing something that was started nearly three seasons ago and then ended when Angela's ex husband became her ex.  If we had known that all it took was for the two of them to be thrown in jail, hell, that should be have been done a long time ago!!  Can I just say how cute it was that they had been carrying around the others wedding band for nearly two seasons?!  Well it is and if you don't agree, then you can just go somewhere! ;o) 

• As a side note, a friend of mine noticed this and I completely agree.  This awesome couple were married without a marriage license, but I'm kinda thinking that this was taken care of before we were brought to the scene.  Plus, it was a little odd for them to go from not being able to have a normal conversation at the beginning of the episode to saying "I do" at the end.  Either way, whatever!

• Maybe now that they are married, Booth and Brennan will take a hint and get their crap together.  Well, maybe just Brennan since Booth knows what he wants and she's "protecting him from her".  (Don't even get me started on this.) 

• Out of all the interns that have been on the show, other than Zach, Clark Edison may be my favorite.  Sorry Wendell, who is adorable and honorable.  Clark did us all proud and tried to step into the Hodgins role with the experiment and then almost hated the idea of it when he was asked to "play with....dirt".  Sorry, love, but you can't go halfway and the shoes can be replaced. 

• And last, but definitely not least, Booth and Bones.  Can they get anymore awkward?!  Bones, for once, didn't bring up Brennan-lite aka Catherine, but Booth, being the emotional one, decides to bring up the whole "love" thing AGAIN.  Look, I understand that he is head over heels in love with Bones.  This was expected!  Yes, he has worn down her walls of resistance to the whole love thing, but come on now!  Stop bringing it up already!!! If she wants to live her life without it, then let her.  It's her loss. 

• Okay rewind.  That was insensitive and it's only a show.  The Show, but still its a show.  Like him, I really do hope that she comes around to the idea of them possibly getting together.  Can you even imagine how insanely happy I would be if that would ever happen? I wouldn't be venting, but almost praying that they would stay together.  Sigh

• Moving on.

• This week, I was extremely productive, which was nice.  I was able to get four scenes done and plan on going back to finish another one maybe tomorrow.  Just depends on how the day goes.

• For the moment, I think my favorite character in my book would have to be Miles.  This poor guy has lost his best friend and has gained a very stubborn partner.  In some ways I feel sorry for him, but at the same time I don't.  Either way, he is awesome in my book! (No pun intended.)

• Don't forget that today is Mother's Day!  So go home and hug your mom for putting up with you for all of this time.  Okay, I'm totally just kidding about that last part.  Seriously though, go hug your mom and say thanks for everything.  If you can't do this, call her up.  Either way, say thanks.  It'll mean the world to her.  

Thanks Mom!

Random Moment of the Day

So earlier today, Jessica and I were on our way back to the office from our first Bigby run of the week and we run into a guy in the lobby with bright blue earphones on.  Once the three of us got on the elevator with this older lady, Jessica and I could hear that he was listening to 50 Cent's 21 questions!  This definitely made my day!

Made Me Smile Today

This has been an extremely long week for me, but I think that's what expected when you grow up.  A serious lack of sleep and constantly worrying what the next day will be bring can take a lot out of a person.  It makes you really appreciate the little things.  Like:

• The soothing smell and sound of rain
• Driving without a destination with the window down and radio blaring
• Walking through a bookstore and the feel of spines under my fingertips and the smell of a brand new or used book floating through the air
• Sitting out on the balcony in complete silence
• Watching a crappy movie without judgment
• Waking up at 11:00 and remembering that it's finally Saturday and I don't have to get out of bed if I don't want to

Side Note...

I couldn't go to bed without getting this out.

I know I said that I was glad that Bones turned Booth down a few weeks ago when he asked begged her to give them a chance, but I didn't, for some reason, think things would get this awkward.  I understand that they both had to move on, but come on!  She is a wreck without showing it!  The subtle hints of jealousy were extremely obvious when she kept bringing up Catherine, Booth's new whatever, to him and other people she works with.  We all know she is just with Andrew, Booth's boss who makes me want to vomit every time I see him, just to say that she is with someone.  She has even said it herself...he's only temporary!

How about she get it together and kick that barf inducing temp to the curb and move on to Booth (right after he dumps the chick he's with)?  Then things wouldn't be as awkward as they are now!

Also, it's about damn time that Cam finally has a guy on this show other than Booth or some cheating scumbag!  I totally loved the scene where her "daughter", Michelle, totally calls her out! Ha!

Is anyone else as excited to see Angela and Hodgins get back together as I am?!

Okay, I'm done! 

TGIF!

Writing Randoms

• Devyn, the main character, is seriously gutsy!  I'm in the middle of writing a scene where she tells her boss to pull his head out of his ass (sorry Mom!) and let her do her job!  I love it!  How many of us would like to say that to get the job done?
• Too bad her partner was speechless and had to leave the room.  Should it have been out of shock or to laugh without judgment?  Not quite sure...poor Miles!
• I decided to change the name of my villain to Carson Maddox...it just sounds evil! 
• I almost hate that I came up with this scene while I was in church on Sunday.  Now I feel like I need to repent or something. (I'm really hoping my mom isn't reading this!)
• With all the writing I've done lately, I rewarded myself by buying a book of suspense short stories called Thriller 2. I haven't finished it yet, but so far, it's really good!  I'll let you know what I think of it probably this weekend or next, depending on what's going on.
• It's finally Friday!

Thinking out loud.....

Right now, I am working on rewriting the second half of my book and I am really thinking about changing the bad guys name from William Carson to Carson....something.  Hmmm.... Any suggestions on a last name?  (As long as its not Miller and Williams.)  

Note:  Carson Harris...yes...no?

Random Book Tidbits

I know that its been a while since I have posted anything related to my book.  It's still a work in progress, I promise!

• My main character's partner, Miles, is a total mama's boy....not sure why I find this amusing, but I do. 
• I guess Devyn would be considered a daddy's girl to some people at first glance.  I don't think that would really be the case.  This book just focus's more on their relationship more because of his murder.
• Should the latest intended victim be surprised to learn that she was next on William Carson's list?  Or should she dismiss the idea?  Kinda torn between the two.  Tell me what you think....PLEASE!!!
• I, personally, hated this mystery person when I was writing the character, but they are the last link, so I am biting the bullet and keeping them in the story.  
• I did enjoy writing the scene earlier in the book when ...wait!  Can't tell you...sorry!  That would be giving away too much! ;o)
• And yes, I am having a slight writers block on this part
• I think I might even hate this person as much as I do Booth's new girlfriend on Bones! Gag
• I couldn't resist!
• The closer I get to finishing the second half of my book, the more I'm seriously consider throwing out the last bit of the end chapter. Right now, its kinda sad, but hopeful.  Just a thought.  I'll cross that bridge when I get to it.
• It's almost Friday! 

 Smile!!

• Note: Crap!  I totally gave a small detail away that I didn't intend to. Sigh!

Still Distracted

I know that I haven't posted anything constructive recently and for that, I apologize.  Its because of this crazy thing called life....I think you know what that is, right?  (Shows too, but we'll skip that part for now!)  Either way, be patient.  In my book, I have gotten to the part where my main character catches the villain in the story, but in my head, its not quite over.  I know what should happen next, but what I have written on paper doesn't seem right.  Sigh  Plus, I'm trying to figure out how much more the reader should hate the villain.  At this point, I already hate him and his arrogance, which I find insanely irritating in real people, but not everyone is like me. 

For now until sometime in May, there will be little Bones pieces.  (Yes, KT Mac and Amy, I am SLIGHTLY obsessed, but not completely.) If you don't like it, I don't know what to tell you! Actually, I do, but I will be nice and not say anything.  And for the record, I blame the internet for all of this! :o)

I couldn't agree more!

Take Two

Booth and Bones in the end scene...Poor Booth!

Okay, last night, after I watched Bones (Show)100 episode, I was in shock, frustrated and excited at the same time!  I couldn't believe what I had just seen or that Bones pretty much rejected Booth.  It really did suck, but after re-watching the episode several more times, I think get where they are going with this episode and even have more respect for Dr. Sweets.  

Last season's finale seemed like a disappointment for long time Show followers like me, but looking back at it now, it may not have been as bad as we all thought.  In the end scene with Bones and Booth, there is a quote on the wall behind them.  It says "Nothing happens unless first a dream" by Carl Sandburg.  When I saw this I actually had to pause the show, and think.  This all started in Booths coma dream/ the book that Bones was writing while she was waiting for him to wake up.  A life where they were together and happy and expecting a mini Bones/Booth.  It was first a dream.  Everything that has happened up to this point has come from this dream.  Am I reaching?  I doubt it, but keep reading.

Maybe Bones has come to realize that she is in love with our favorite G-Man, but doesn't know if she could take that leap of "faith" and take that chance with Booth.  Maybe not now, but I think it's just a matter of time. 

In the second season, Bones' lover, Agent Sully, who I really wasn't too fond of in the first place, sailed away without her and behind her was Booth.  In my mind, I saw this as her "past" sailing off into the sunset and her future standing there waiting for her.  In the end of this scene, Booth says, "Everything happens eventually."  Yes, it does!  I normally don't read to much into these things, but in this situation, I am willing to make an exception!  

In another amazing scene was in season four was when Brennan was dumped (ps. I have never liked this term.... just sounds so sad in a away.  Moving on!) by the two men that she was seeing at the same time.  While she and Booth were at their session with Sweets aka Baby Duck, he tells her that there is someone for everyone and that she just had to be open enough to see it.  Sigh!!  Every time I see that episode, I usually scream at the scene, "Brennan, your person is sitting right next to you!!!" At this point, I don't think it really hit her that Booth has been her constant and looks past her problems to the person that she really is.  It's true, but the sooner they get together, the sooner the Show will lose its "magic" and its followers. 

So, maybe, last night's episode wasn't a total disappointment, but something for fans, like me, to keep an eye on and to keep up on the edge of our seats.  In an article that I read about the Show, this is part one of the finale that we will see in six weeks and our favorite non couple is not even close to finish changing. 

My friend said in her comment to my last post that I had taken more out of the episode than the casual viewer would have or did.  After rereading my last post and watching the episode again, I see what she was saying. And, my dears, I am obsessed with the show... I'll admit it! ;o)

THE SHOW

WARNING! If you haven't seen the last episode, please go watch it before you read this.  Thanks! :) 

As we all know, I have a SLIGHT obsession with the show called Bones, which I will refer to as The Show from here on out. My mission up to now has been to turn my friends into fans of the show so that on Friday morning, I can talk about the Show and not sound like a complete and total nerd.

As usual, tonight, the Show has let me down, but at the same time, it didn't. For the past FIVE years, the Show lovers have been teased time and time again with whether Booth (David Boreanaz) and Bones (Emily Deschanel) will or will not get together. Everything in their behavior says that they should and will, but WHEN?!

In tonight's episode, loyal fans were rewarded (if you want to call it that) with the Show's history. Bones and Booth ALMOST slept together, but didn't. Then at the end, Booth FINALLY tells Bones that he is in love with her and kisses her, but of course, it doesn't work out the way we as fans or even Booth hope. Bones' experience as an abandoned child comes into play and she doesn't believe that he could love her in 30, 40 years.

DAMMIT BONES!!! (Sorry about that!!)

Okay, so I get her point of view on the whole "Could you really love me in 30, 40 years? thing", the fact that her whole family walked out on her and the fact that anyone that she gives a chance to, disappoints her. I understand that, BUT, come on!! It's freaking Booth we are talking about here! Has he disappointed you YET?! Well, maybe in the first case, when you two were acting like children, but there are two sides to the story.

This man has cancelled dates to be with her, looked beyond the fact that her family is TOTALLY screwed up, brought her into the world of the living and created a family for her. Am I missing something?! Bones, Booth is your freaking soulmate!

Sigh

Booth, as good as his intentions were in the end, he wasn't completely perfect either.  Yes, Bones has gotten to the point where she understands the concept of love and all that crap, but you can't give her a freaking ultimatum, man!  This is Bones we're talking about here!  She needs evidence and even the thought of him walking away would kill her and lose all faith, if you want to call it that, in humanity. I mean, think back to his coma dream where they were married and even then, she needed proof.  Of all people, he should know that!

Dear Show, are you trying to kill me?!  I mean really! 

Okay, moving on.

There is a reason we all love Sweets, the baby psychologist with the seriously annoying fiance.  (Side note: their relationship reminds me of what Booth and Bones relationship COULD be!  Just a thought.)  He writes this book on the partners relationship and how, despite the fact that they shouldn't be compatible, are and his conclusion is that our dear "non couple" are in love with each other.  (Well, DUH!!!) While they are telling the story of their first case together, he has this look like "Are you freaking kidding me?!  How do they not see it?"  (Yes, dear Sweets, we have been asking the same question for years!)  At several points, I thought he was going to either scream, pull out his hair or walk out of the office completely out of frustration.  Poor baby duck!

Screw that!  Poor Booth and Bones! (Yes, I am back here again!)

Show, I love you....I really do, but dammit!  But this "will they or won't they" thing is going to drive me IN-FREAKING- SANE!

I think I might be done venting....I think!

On the other hand, the Show was absolutely amazing tonight!  It was nice to see how everything started.  How Zach was extremely clueless and not assisting a cannibalistic serial killer that tried to kill our favorite "non couple" or that Hodgins was insanely angry at everyone around him until Angela came into the picture.  How Angela became the "link to the human world" that the lab so desperately needed.  How Cam shows up and I didn't hate her.  It probably helped that she wasn't trying to get it on with Booth. (Yes, I am saying that he belongs with Bones, whether she sees it or not!)  Also, it was nice that the Show showed how Booth and Bones had grown up from their moments of "I hate you" to "There is more than one kind of family".  Caroline, before we see how puckish she can be, was a force not to be reckoned with even then!

Note: This has been said time and time again and I can't help but agree.  If Booth and Bones got together right now, what would we have to look forward to?  Would the Show lovers have a reason to tune in week after week or follow Bones blogs?  Maybe we should keep this fantasy of them getting together and being happily ever after in our heads or in fan fics.  (I know this is a total 180 from what I said before, but I was venting and don't tell me that you weren't right there with me screaming at the TV screen at the end!)

Let me know what you thought of this episode.  Maybe my next post will be a bit more constructive....Sorry!

How Frustrating!

• This past week has been one extremely crazy roller coaster and please know that I was NOT a willing participant. 

• Last weekend, after spending time with my family, I came home and got a ton of writing done.  For the first time in a while, I was actually satisfied with what was in front of me, so I called it a day.  The next day, I found this in place of it: 

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• Yes, this is what I found!  I wanted to cry!  I mean, it took everything in me not to throw my computer out of the window and take a hammer to my flash drive.  But I didn't.... Aren't you proud?!

• Either way, I couldn't look at my computer for a few days.

• This afternoon, I have no idea what happened, but I copied and pasted everything into Google Docs and MOST of the work I had done showed up!!!!

• So Google Docs, you ROCK!

• Moving on, I have finished, what I think is, one of the hardest scenes.  It's where the main character finds out who the "bad guy" really is and....wait!  I can't say anymore. 

• Can you tell I'm extremely happy right now?!

Untitled

I know it's been a while since I've posted anything, but I have been a busy bee lately.  Sometimes I wonder why being an adult has to be so complicated!  Sigh

• A lot of my free time has been spent at the library writing and I have to say that I have gotten more done there than I could have at home!  This round of edits have been more productive since I had a friend of mine read my book and tell me what they thought.  Eeks!
• One thing about my library visits though!  Why do parents insist on bringing their children to the library and allow them to put on a very loud show?!  Last time I checked, we were at a library, which is supposed to be quiet and relaxing, not a circus!
• Okay, I'm done! ;o)
• Ps. The library is definitely a great place for people watching...and yes, this is kept to a minimum since I am there for a reason!

• I was raised with the idea that family is very important and should usually come first.  Anyone who knows me knows that I don't take this lightly.  This past month, I have driven back and forth to either Saginaw or GB quite a bit and I'm pretty sure Speedway loves me right about now!
• Sometimes its worth it though!

 My poor parents! They are knocked out in Schulers Bookstore

• When I was so stressed out during these past few weeks, I was reminded to take time for myself and that I couldn't solve everyone's problems that were around me.  Sometimes I wish I could!  
• A few weeks ago, a friend of mine posted a letter on her blog that really hit home for me.
• I totally needed that reminder!

Maybe we should all take the time to remind ourselves that we can't be everything to everyone, no matter how hard we try.