The High Tide

The big 5-0h for the daddyo

2011-11-16T21:19:00.000-08:00

I just want to give a shout out to the best dad in the world.....

Don Kleifgen.

Because it is his 50th birthday today!

Finally (he has been saying he's 50 for the last 5 or so years now)

So happy birthday dad!!

My dad (and mom and I) back in the day

My dad (and his mom) more recently

Bathroom Poetry

2011-11-15T20:06:00.000-08:00

I used to write poems a lot....

Just in my free time, scribbled on a napkin and shoved in my sock drawer, or on a random blank page in the middle of a notbook sitting in history class.

See everynow and then my brain goes into "rhyming mode" where I can't think of anything without making it ryme and flow together with a little rhythm. For a breif moment I feel all inspired and artistic, so I would try to write it down....with hopes to put it in a song somewhere someday or something...

I havent written a poem in a long long time, but recently my brain went into "rhyming mode" again and I came up with a little bathroom poetry.

Maybe some girls can relate...

I live in my bathroom, there's clothes on the floor.
The trash can overfloweth with tissues galore.
I live in my bathroom, I unplugged the fan.
The hum was so loud, I couldn't hear my favorite band.
I live in my bathroom, there's spots on the mirror.
When the shower heats up, you can hardly see clear.
I live in my bathroom, makeup is spewed around.
But with a quick swipe of mascara, I'm beach bound.
I live in my bathroom, landing pad for the purse.
Backdrop for cellphone photos, not sure what's worse.
I live in my bathroom, my own little space,
And to live anywhere else would be just a waste.

So ladies, do you have a spot like this? That (or seems to be) all yours?

Where is the landing spot for your purse??

How Did This Happen?

2011-11-04T14:24:00.000-07:00

How did this happen to me?

How could I have possibly come down with....

BIEBER FEVER!?!?

It just swept me out of nowhere.

I swore I wouldn't.

But I did.

I blame this song....

It's a cold rainy day here in sunnyville CA,

perfect for a grilled cheese, soup, and a pepermint mocha.

Holiday season's around the corner.

You getting excited yet!?

I am.

Sorry for the lack of posts, its due to lack of inspiration.

I plan to be back with raging ideas soon....

Year One

2011-09-30T12:44:00.000-07:00

No, not the movie.....

But the first year that I have been living the dream (my dream at least).

The first year I could go to the beach whenever I wanted.

The first year I could wear shorts and a tank on christmas.

The first year I actually felt like I was where I belong.

Growing up, I had all these dreams of how amazing it would be to live in SoCal. I dreamed of walking the beach on foggy mornings, meeting people who were one with the ocean, and so comfortable in their surroundings. I dreamed of rolling green hills, warm sunny days, light jackets in the crisp evenings, swaying palm trees, and much much more.

I was surprised, though, that every single one of those dreams came true.

SoCal and surpassed my expectations, which has led me to believe that I can never leave this place.

The people here are so friendly, and I feel like they really get me.

There are of course a few things I miss about Northern AZ, like monsoon season, low rent rates, and curling up by the fire.

But nothing beats waking up in the morning, and going outside to the freshest scent in the world, and dew drops all over everything. Spiderwebs glisten, and you honestly feel like you can do anything if you put your mind to it.

It has been an amazing Year One here in San Diego.

I have a great job.
Great friends.
Amazing apartment.

(off our porch)

This year flew by like you couldn't imagine.

And I can't wait for many more years here in Paradise.

When the Lights Go Out in the City....

2011-09-09T11:10:00.000-07:00

You have FREE REIGN to raid the freezer....including ice cream. (or else it will all melt!)

The candles are lit and the windows open up, allowing you to hear the world without the hum of computers, fans, ac's, etc. etc.

The streets go haywire. No traffic lights-no rules.

No food places are open, no means to cook your own food (unless you have a grill)..and you can forget about an ice cold beer....

Dogs communicate out the window, 101 Dalmatians style.

The world becomes a dark dark place, waiting for those delayed flights.

And once your cell phone dies, you are communication-less with the world.

And unable to listen to music.

Last night, from about 3pm to 1am, San Diego was still in its silent, dark self.

1.4 million people without power.

dun dun dun.

We will just blame it on AZ. :) And now i'm going to turn off the computer to "save power". ciao for now.

http://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/Massive-Power-Outage-Hits-San-Diego-OC-129498468.html

Fall Cleaning

2011-09-06T15:48:00.000-07:00

Well, we are soaking up the last few days of summer, and Fall is among us.

Fall has become one of my favorite seasons, leaving me dreaming of pumpkins, colorful leaves, and cool crisp air.

(even though, living in San Diego now means the temperature only drops from the high 80's to the mid 70's, but still)

And I have always despised "Spring Cleaning"....

Maybe its because I hate spring with its wind, and bugs, and pollen floating around.

And does it really make sense to deep clean everything RIGHT before the season of being outside. The season where there are sure to be masses of sand, dirt, and chlorine covered bodies tracing in and out of the house??

Not to mention monsoon season which leaves everything muddy...

Turning our homes right back into the mess it was before the inevitable "Spring Cleaning".

Well I wont do it. (not that I ever really did...)

AND, I'm going on a limb and trying my own thing: Fall Cleaning.

I will wipe away the mess from that sweet, sweet, sweaty, sticky summer. Leaving the house crisp and clean for the Fall/Winter seasons, where I can curl up with some cocoa by the fire and watch the.....trees.?

A girl can dream right?

Here, let me try to set the mood

(borrowed images)

Eh...I tried

Anyhoo, this is my Fall Cleaning List:

Scrub (and I mean SCRUB) the grill

Clean off the porch

Go through all the stacks of papers from the last year and get rid of them or file them

Clean out/stock the fridge

Get rid of the 'ol text books

Gather all the clothes that I don't wear or don't fit me, and give them to Good-Will

Wash out the iced chest

Dust

Decorate

Scrub the Bathrooms

Rearrange

etc., etc.

My biggest goal lately is to get rid of things that are not of importance. I am so tired of having so much "stuff".

My pack rat days are over.

Do you have any cleaning/chores you need to get done?

Maybe a haul of boxes before the snow?

So long summer. You were bitter-sweet, as always.

Until next time.

Pause for the little things....

2011-08-11T14:52:00.001-07:00

....like love.

She says it best.....

Amazing performance

it almost makes me cry...

The Hunger Games

2011-07-29T12:55:00.000-07:00

I recently read a book, for the very first time,

The Hunger Games

(The first book)
And during those two in a half days it took me to read it (I never read books that fast), it consumed my soul.

WARNING- If you have not read this book, and you plan to I will be talking about some character traits and struggles that may be best discovered by reading the book yourself. There will be no story line plot spoilers.

The book was all I could think about during those days, and a few days after. The characters and scenery that the author portrayed were so rich (in characteristics, not money) and real. Although the book is set in a sort of alternate reality, you can't help but feel that the situations are realistic and heart wrenching.

In the moments I wasn't reading the pages of the book, I was constantly watching and noting my surroundings. When outdoors I felt as though I was going out to hunt my game, and I was constantly watching my back; survival mode. I started questioning my peers, and my trust with them. I wondered how different those people would be if our world was like the world in the book. I was confident I could take on any battle at any point and time.

(I have a very large imagination)

I absolutely loved the main character, Katniss. Not only was her name unique and symbolical, but she was realistic and raw, yet hopeful.
It was hard to earn her trust or catch her smile.
She was honest and upfront.
I couldn't help thinking that I would be similar to her if I was in her situation.
I also couldn't help thinking how thrilling and real being in her situation would be. I would never be bored, and life would feel so important and edgy.

I also know that it would be very painful, physically and emotionally. And if I was ever put in a position like hers, I would regret thinking that in an instant.

This book is an easy reading level, and if you have not read it yet (and you are still reading this post...) you should defiantly check it out.

It was absolutely wonderful, and I can't wait to read the other books.

Good luck in your journey through the Hunger Games,

And may the odds ever be in your favor.

Photography: Trial and Error and Error....

2011-07-25T16:13:00.000-07:00

I LOVE photography.

I love to look at it, I love to practice it, and I love following blogs with good photographers.

But I have yet to take a class, and I feel my skills are lacking. I really want to get good at it!

You see, I love to practice on my dog (because he is so cute), but whenever we take him out to good photography spots, he gets a little too excited, and most my pictures end up like this:

or like this

(he loved chasing the birds)

Every now and then I catch an okay one

Or a goofy one

By they are few and far between

Now I have read hundreds of tips online and such, but I want to know what really works for you!
What quick and successful tips do you have for taking pictures?
(It doesn't have to be just action/dog shots, I like taking still shots too)

We did have a lot of fun at the park though :D

Also.......

I celebrated my birthday not too long ago, and look at my amazing cake!

Yes, its a Mrs. Pac Man

And yes, that is an upside down stuffed Mario mushroom in the background.

It was a great 22nd birthday!

Anyhoo, have a great week and leave me your photography secrets!
( please ;D )

P.S. These are a couple of my favorite photography bloggers. Their blogs are not focused around photography, but they always include multiple excellent photos in each blog post all taken by them!

http://manditremayne.blogspot.com/

http://tracys-trinkets-treasures.blogspot.com/

http://russandselena.blogspot.com/

The Conclusion, of Facebook...

2011-07-19T17:41:00.000-07:00

Well it has been close to a week now since I did it,

I took the plunge,

I deleted Facebook.

I don't feel conflicted or left out like I thought I might....

I also don't feel relieved or like I 'have more time'.

I just feels ........ normal.

And I like that.

I copied all my pictures to my computer, so there were no strings attached.

Goodbye social networking drama that I despised like so,

Goodbye.

Simple Mathematics Folks

2011-07-15T13:51:00.000-07:00

Yes, that's all it takes; Addition.

When did we learn that again? First...Second grade?

So please tell me why I CONSTANTLY see people adding their tips to their bill incorrectly.

A $115.75 dollar check plus a $16.05 dollar tip does NOT equal $123.05! How do you even get that??

Okay, lets take into consideration that you are a bit tipsy. So a few drinks makes you completely forget the basis of your entire math knowledge?

Let's all just slow down, take a deep breath, and actually pay attention to what we are doing.

A 'lil bit of restaurant ranting for ya.

You.Are.Awesome

2011-06-25T16:30:00.000-07:00

Are you ever like.....
"Damn, I'm awesome!"

if so....
What are you doing that makes you say that?

I wanna know what brings you to that high point. That thing that gives you adrenaline that makes you feel on top of the world.

For me its usually right after I successfully jam out to a good song....
.... or after I beat an Expert level Sudoku puzzle.

I'm pretty sure this little guy thinks that phrase every day....

Or at least he should think it....because he is!!

This is one of Snoop's favorite places in the house, with one of his beat up toys that he left there.

Have a great week!

Pacific Beach, California

2011-06-23T14:40:00.000-07:00

I have decided to (every now and then) do a review on one of the beaches here in Southern California (mostly sandy-eggo beaches).

I am going to start with one of my favorites (so far): Pacific Beach....or as absolutlyeveryone calls it here, PB.

Recently I decided to practice my photography skillz with my new-ish camera, so I headed down to PB with our roommate to take some photos.

There are sooo many reason's why I love it here in PB, but to some it up: They have good bars, lot's of CLEAN sand, not too many bugs, and the place is full of color.

Now, when I say "full of color" I really do mean it. Many of the people who hang out here have very colorful personalities, and don't mind showing it off.

You may get a random person asking you an off-the-wall question here and there,

and I can guaranteed that 15 bucks will get you a 'love the free world' tie-dyed t-shirt!

But, that is why I love it so much. People come here to relax, be themselves, and have a drink or two.

Sometimes I look into that ocean blue and just know that I could stare into it forever.

Not to mention I absolutely love the old town rustic scenery

Now if you are planning a trip to Southern California, and would like to make a stop at good 'ol PB,

Here are some places you should DEFINITELY check out.

Moondoggies

Yummy food, good pours, live bands/Dj's, indoor AND outdoor seating, and GREAT prices.

This quiet little bar will also quickly turn into a hoppin' night club on the weekends.

Kabuki Sushi

If you like sushi, this place is cheap and delish.

(right across the street from Moondoggies)

And the Lahaina Beach House

This place has been here for years. You can go inside, order a burger, fries, and a pitcher of beer, and then sit on the patio that is just feet from the ocean blue.

Great drinks, good prices, and an AMAZING view.

I remember my parents coming here when I was a youngin'. Defiantly a great place to hang out, BUT cash only so be prepared.

Another great place to go in PB (that I do not have a picture of) is Miller Field.

This place has tasty food, good prices and a nice bar.

Now....where NOT to go.

Awful food, service and prices.

Don't even waste your time.

(this is really the only place I have had an awful experience at)

The rules in PB are similar to rules at most all the San Diego beaches

And although the parking can be a little rough at times,

it is totally worth it.

Because in MY OPINION there is no better place to put your toes in the sand and just relax.....

How Old Are You, Really?

2011-05-20T15:57:00.000-07:00

and How old would you be, if you didn't know how old you were?

I have been thinking about this ...... question.....over and over again for a while now.
What is with our country's big obsession with age?

You have to be a certain age to legally do certain things (drive, drink, smoke, vote, gamble, etc.).
Children are grouped by their age and are stuck with the same people to socialize and interact with for their entire childhood. (I could go on and on about this one)
You can receive money from the government, at a certain age.
Your car insurance goes down, once you are a certain age.

but, who is to say you will learn best with the other twelve year olds in your 6th grade class? And what if you're not ready to drive when you're 16? What if you know more about our government, and the current election when your 17, then most 40 year olds do? They still get to cast their vote, but you do not.

Is this system really fair??

Maybe I'm just bitter because I'm 21 and I feel like I'm 35.

Or maybe I'm going through an I'm.only.going.to.be.young.once.I.must.capture.my.youth faze of some sort.

All I know is, at my place of employment, my two closest friends are 18 and 50.

And in my professional opinion, you gain knowledge with experience.......not age.
(because we all know there are some old ass baby-boomers out there with an IQ still stuck in the mid 60's)

To me, your age is the number of years you have been alive, and that's it. So why does everyone make it so complicated?

What are your thoughts on age?

Empathy of Dreams

2011-05-14T13:27:00.000-07:00

Hello friends and followers.

I have something new that I have been working on, and I believe I am ready to announce it.

See.... when I sleep, I dream. And I mean I dream CRAZY dreams. And I have always wanted to record them down somehow, but every time I started to write down dreams in a journal, I lost interest.

SO.....

I am recording some of my dreams in my new blog Empathy of Dreams.

The dreams are written in short story format, and they are all real dreams that I have had.

I am excited to write this blog because:

1. It will help improve my writing skillz.

2. I can record my dreams in a fun and interesting way.

3. I can finally share my dreams without nagging people to listen, and then getting blank and confused stares in return. :D

So HERE is the link to my new blog:

http://empathyofdreams.blogspot.com/

NOW for some fun sleep facts to get you in-ze-mood:

1. The average person in my age group (19-55) needs 8 hours of sleep. I get like 10 every night.

2. Dreaming is perfectly normal! People who don't have dreams usually have personality disorders.

3. 1 in 4 married couples sleep in separate beds.

4. You will die from sleep deprivation before food deprivation. You can go 2 weeks before starving to death, but you can only go 10 days without sleep.

5. Within 5 minutes of waking up, 50% of your dream is forgotten. Within 10 minutes, 90% is gone. I believe this is not the case for me. I remember my dreams days after I have them. Sometimes even weeks/years.

6. When we sleep, our cells repair themselves, our brain recharges, and our body releases important hormones.

7. When dolphins sleep, only have their brain shuts down so they can continue breathing cycles.

8. People who are blind can see in their dreams.

9. 12% of people dream only in black and white. My only dream that is in black and white is my reoccurring dream.

10. Men have dreams of other men 70% of the time, but women dream about men and women equally.

11. We can ONLY dream of faces we have already seen, whether or not we actively remember them.

12. Koalas sleep 22 hours a day. Giraffes sleep 1.9 hours a day.

Now come and join me through my journey of dreams.......

The Best Of....

2011-04-11T21:14:00.000-07:00

No, not the best of The High Tide, but the best of Kassie Amber Stewart(Kleifgen)'s life.

(me)

No, i'm not jumping off the edge of the earth, or dying or anything,

But there were a lot of great times that were had before this blog was born, and I believe some credit is due.

These memories have shaped me

(warning, there are a lot of pictures)

I challenge you to listen to this amazing song while reading...

go ahead and skip to 0:17

Some of my fondest memories....

My first dog, Buffy

My first dance recital, with a woman who ended up being like my 2nd mom, RIP Bev

Back when I played sports (Jr high-ish, fourth in from the left)

The most epic Disneyland trip of all time (high school choir trip)- 3 days of complete freedom and fun

My adorable niece and nephew

Great times with good friends

Meeting/dating the love of my life

My amazing dance company, Encore

Getting Engaged

Graduation

Our little baby

ANDDD the happiest day of my life

Looking through these photos was like a timeline of my most treasured moments in life. There are many more moments that I think of frequently, and always bring a smile to my face, like these ones, that I left out.

Consider this an electronic photo album of my life up until now.

I will never forget these memories.

And I can't wait to see the memories that are in store for the future!

What are your happiest times?

Hello, cruel world

2011-04-07T22:54:00.001-07:00

it's an "I hate everyone" type of day,

which is a build up from the last few weeks.

Do you ever have those days, weeks, months, where everything is going wrong.

You find yourself saying "Seriously...SERIOUSLY?!?! one.thing.after.a-freaking-nother." (even if they are just little things)
And its not just one of those 'drive around in my Altima, with the windows down, blasting John Denver, or Bob Marley and everything is all better' sort of days, which usually cures anything.
No, today is a pull my hair out and scream kind'o day.

which is fine....gotta let it out sometime, right?

And let me just tell you, when I say "everyone" I really just mean most people, there are a select few that are on the good list (the hubby included).

But to people like Barry Bonds and his steroids, and the guy who stiffed me on my tip for no good reason (ALWAYS tip your servers people-karma's a bitch), and the multiple insurance pain-in-the-rear people....

"go fuck ya'selves"

because I'm over it.

Alright, now on to hard work, determination, sweaty shoes (??), and good times, because IT WILL pay off.
It will.

How do you deal with your not so fantastic days??

Roseanne

2011-03-28T19:14:00.000-07:00

Wait one second, let me take you back............

Ah, wasn't that nice?

Now, I said "let me take you back" because for most people, hearing that oh so familiar harmonica tune brings back memories from the late 80's-early 90's.

I, on the other hand, just completed the last episode of the last season, TODAY after watching the entire Roseanne series in order for the last month or so.
[yes....that is what I do with my free time]

Now, I get caught up in shows fairly easily I suppose, but this show truly was great.
The humor, satire, empathy, and....pure envy totally sucked me in.
NOT TO MENTION the very talented individuals that were casted in the show the whole series! (except for becky...which is a story of it's own)
[but they're Beckys, nearly identical Beckys all the way....do do do]

I mean Mr. John Goodman to play Dan Conner? Best idea ever.

And the musicality of the show is just amazing. I mean, every person who grew up in that era doesn't think of Roseanne whenever they hear the blues for nothing.

Let's face it, its legendary.

It's a time capsule of the 90's.

It's "blue collar" genius. And I loved every minute of it...and trust me, my head is still spinning from the ending.

My favorite Episodes:
3. Season 8, Episode 17 "We're going to Disney World"- The Conner's get a large sum of money, and decide to take their first family vacation. They are overwhelmed with the "Ritz life" of Disney hotels, and fine dining.
2. The episode (cant find season/episode at the moment, i think season 8 or 7) where John Popper, from the Blues Traveler, Dan's now famous old band mate, comes to town to play and invites Dan to come up and sing. He does a stunning job.
You can hear Dan sing here (skip to 0:35)
I highly suggest you check it out.
Plus, what better ending is there than this.... (skip to 0:35) He is so amazing!

Annnndd my very most favorite episode, because it is absolutely HILARIOUS is....
1. Season 6 "A Stash from the Past" where Dan and Roseanne Conner find their old weed from the 70's. They smoke the stash and proceed to trip out in their bathroom. It is so very funny.

Oh Roseanne, you have brought more joy than words can explain
and you have helped me find my inner "woman power" haha
And if you happen to be a Roseanne hater out there.....well then, as Roseanne Conner, said

"I'll snap your spine like a potato chip, Bitch!"

I am also proud to put another show, that I have watched every single episode of, under my belt.
Other show's I have completed:
Wild Boys
Prison Break
Weeds (to current)
Dexter (to current)
LOST
Breaking Bad (to current)
John & Kate Plus 8
Secret Life of the American Teenager (to current) [i know i know, don't judge]
Little People Big World
Dead Like Me (super amazing btw)
My Name is Earl (priceless)

**Disclaimer** Jason has never admitted to, or hinted at enjoying all of these shows at any point and time.

Facebook.

2011-02-27T21:13:00.000-08:00

Let's just say I procrastinated writing this because of Facebook, and I don't know how I feel about that.

I have struggled with a "love/hate" relationship with Facebook every since I signed up for the nation sweeping life sucking social networking program. I find myself hating Facebook and everyone on it, but just not enough to let it go and delete everything. I often make the excuse that my pictures are on there, and not all of those pictures are on my computer, or in my possession at all, so I can't get rid of it. I've also tried use the "keeping in touch with friends and family members" one, but really the only people I write with on Facebook are in my phone anyway. But yet I just can't bring myself to do it. Why is this?

Even knowing that I spend so much energy and time in a little thing like Facebook (like writing a blog about it...hmm...) makes me hate/love it even more.....I mean, IT'S JUST FACEBOOK!
but it's not...just Facebook now, is it....

I tried doing things to lessen my hate for "teh facebooks" like, delete people I'm not really great friends with (but they found a way back on my page anyway), or not check it as much that way its a pleasant surprise to check it out every few days (but it was slightly overwhelming....and crept back into my daily life again).

Facebook went from a simple way to pass the time now and then and check notifications, to a life sucking trend that people of all ages can't simply live without. I see this happening to many people.

How often do you complete a task on the inter-webs/computer and immediately type "f" in your web browser bar and then key "enter" and it automatically sends you to Facebook. Or maybe you have it under your "favorites" in the customized bar up top. OR MAYBE you simply open up a tab because Facebook is your home page. Why not?? you go there everyday anyway, right? It's a sort of reward, "finish this paper, and then I can go on Facebook for a bit.."

It's gone from bumper stickers and college students, to people of all ages, support groups, and games.

Games that are so addicting and consuming that people neglect their families and Infants over.

The business world has taken Facebook in it's clutch and moved forward like they were taking over the world. Advertisements on the side are on par with things you are "interested in" or things that you google. Businesses not only have their own webpages that you can "like" but they have their employees notify "friends" of their specials, and why they should come to their place of employment. I can't even tell you how many times I see feeds similar to this "Half price tattoos guy's, come on down!" or "Happy Hour 3-6, come see me!!" "VIP tickets to tonights event, text me!" or "50 cut and color at our shop, fix those roots ladies".

People use Facebook to spy on one another, and others use Facebook to gossip about their lives leaving personal information in status updates or info boxes.

Some use it straight up for attention, posting new pictures daily, status updates every few hours (or minutes....) stating exactly what they are doing/thinking, etc., etc.

You know it's bad when the 60 year old gentleman at the bar has been checking his Facebook all night, or when a new phone is coming out...a Facebook phone.

Facebook, like everything else, changes and evolves and changes.

And I despise it, so...
Why can't I let it go?

Anyone else have these similar feelings? Or am I crazy?

I think the next "cool trend" will be deleting Facebook.
girls in high school : "Oh no, I deleted my Facebook. I have better things to do"

The good people in the world.....

2011-01-28T14:06:00.000-08:00

I am a people observer.....or just an observer in general really.

and I love to sit back and watch people, animals, etc. and how they react to situations or complete simple everyday tasks.

In doing this, I constantly find myself saying "the good people in the world today are ___________" (the blank being whatever it might be that day that I found interesting and special)

So I decided, why not blog about it.

Sometimes I am included in the good-people-in-the-world group....but mostly not. And that's okay.

So on this bright and shiny San Diego morning....okay afternoon...

The good people in the world are cleaning their windshield while filling their tanks with gas.

(kind of lame, I know. But sometimes they are more interesting)

I am not included in this group today. Maybe because I am not going to fill up my tank.

or maybe because I never do that.

Maybe I should start.

Stay tuned for more good people in the world tasks.

Progress!

2011-01-14T12:01:00.000-08:00

I have made progress on the blog!

As you can see, I picked a background that somewhat resembled the high tide with the ocean and the moon. This wasn't just a layout that I just picked and copy-pasted the code into the thingy either. I actually some-what customized it! Sqeeeee!

I couldn't be more happy with how it turned out.

Now I have to find some widgets, maybe add some pictures, and maybe somehow customize the title of the blog. But who knows....I might just leave that the same.

Once again, advice on those things would be great! What widgets do you use? How do you like them??

A whole lot of...Nothing.

2011-01-13T15:43:00.000-08:00

I wish I were writing this post with a update on up and coming exciting news/adventures. Or a new piece of creative writing, or a new portion of my book-thing.

but lack of inspiration= lack of motivation
and lack of motivation= lack of writing
and lack of all these things= lack of self worth
...but who's counting?

So alas, I opened this blank page empty handed.

"So.....why are you even writing this post?" - You may be asking your self.

And the answer simply is: It has been too long. It has been too long since a new post, or even since inspiration has struck. So I am turning to YOU to help me...which may be difficult since I really don't even know who "You" is. (are? is? ....hmmm)

Everyday (ish) I read blogs from bloggers who refurbish furniture, build their own beds, install spice cabinets into their walls, take family portraits, etc. Reading these makes me feel inspired, but yet worthless at the same time. Granted, I live in an apartment, so home renovating won't be happening for many moons. And I don't have multiple babies to sew diaper gene covers for like many of my High school colleagues do (Don't get me wrong..I am very thankful that I do not have to do that). So really, I don't have much to work with.

And it's already a task in itself (for me) to maintain my 2 bedroom apartment along with my busy work schedule at a bbq sports bar/restaurant.............. pathetic excuse, I know.

So I have decided, my next "project" is to update my blog. And by update I mean get a new background, add some of those cool pictures or buttons on the right hand side, and have a little intro/picture/title thingy at the top or the blog that all the cool people have. Now considering I am nowhere NEAR as Internet/Computer savvy as I should be, (which is 100% my fault considering I fall into the 'technology generation' category and I should know how to create a website and download illegal music, or at least create an organized list in Excel.) this may be a little bit difficult.

So I thought to myself "I used to put backgrounds and pictures and stuff on my profile on Myspace...so I can do this!". After a little research, I am clearly wrong. Not to mention I am picky as hell. BUT I am determined to do this on my own (and by "on my own" I mean, not having someone do it for me, which is what I usually do. Helpful hints, and tips...and tutorials would be FANTASTIC!). I have some inspirational and interesting ideas in my head...and since the title of this blog is The High Tide and I want it to be kind of dark and mysterious-ish...I was thinking something kind of like this.....

or this....

Now remember...these are just inspirations. It doesn't have to be EXACTLY LIKE THESE PICTURES. Soooo basically what i'm getting at with this big huge rant is...INSPIRE ME! Tell me what you think, give me ideas...help! thanks.

UPDATE: After doing "extensive" research today, and going through pages and pages of already made templates, and websites explaining how to create you own (which seemed like a foreign language btw) I feel like it is impossible and I want to give up. Which is how I feel about everything that has to do with technology if I don't understand it within the first fifteen minutes. I will keep trekking through it though. I suppose.

Live and Learn

2010-12-02T00:48:00.000-08:00

Live and Learn, it is a phrase that is heard over and over again, but it is obvious many people don't really LISTEN to it.

It makes sense: You learn from your mistakes, your adventures, and as you grow older.

But yet, it's the end of the world if something does not go someone's way. (myself included)

I think it is important to truly understand how to live and learn, and not take things too personally. I am still working on it.

I was re-reading some of the first posts on this blog which made me want to:
1. Bang my head into the keyboard.
2. Go through all the posts and fix ALL my incorrect grammar. (I still have incorrect grammar, but not THAT bad)
3. Spend a few hours revising each post, so they made more sense, were more clear, and were...well...just better.

But then I realized how ridiculous that was and that the blog really showed how much I have grown (which isn't THAT much....but still). I have written a lot of articles, and personal things since I started this blog and it is interesting to see how my writing has changed.

Also, recently I was tearing myself apart about not knowing what I want to do with my life. "Wow, I graduated from college and have NO IDEA what I want to do in life" I said. Jason patiently told me over and over that I'm only 21, and I shouldn't even be thinking about these things. It took me a while to realize just how right he was.

Now this doesn't mean, be a super slacker and lay around doing nothing every day. You should be trying things out and exploring to help yourself along the road called life. But it is nothing to fret over, you will figure it out in time.

And then I came across this picture.....

Which them reminded me of my favorite inspirational song/video/speech ever! I heard it for the first time when I was about 10 or 12 or so on one of my mom's random c.d's on a road trip. Every time I am getting down about things, this song finds a way to resurface in my life, and I love it to pieces. So much in fact....That I will post it on here. I do hope that you watch it. I will post the lyrics too at the very end of this post. (because it is that good)

My PERSONAL advise for the day is........

so in conclusion....live and learn...but mostly, just LIVE!

Video Lyrics:

Ladies and Gentlemen of the class of ’99
If I could offer you only one tip for the future, sunscreen would be
it. The long term benefits of sunscreen have been proved by
scientists whereas the rest of my advice has no basis more reliable
than my own meandering
experience…I will dispense this advice now. Enjoy the power and beauty of your youth; oh nevermind; you will not
understand the power and beauty of your youth until they have faded.
But trust me, in 20 years you’ll look back at photos of yourself and
recall in a way you can’t grasp now how much possibility lay before
you and how fabulous you really looked….You’re not as fat as you
imagine. Don’t worry about the future; or worry, but know that worrying is as
effective as trying to solve an algebra equation by chewing
bubblegum. The real troubles in your life are apt to be things that
never crossed your worried mind; the kind that blindside you at 4pm
on some idle Tuesday. Do one thing everyday that scares you Sing Don’t be reckless with other people’s hearts, don’t put up with
people who are reckless with yours. Floss Don’t waste your time on jealousy; sometimes you’re ahead, sometimes
you’re behind…the race is long, and in the end, it’s only with
yourself. Remember the compliments you receive, forget the insults; if you
succeed in doing this, tell me how. Keep your old love letters, throw away your old bank statements. Stretch Don’t feel guilty if you don’t know what you want to do with your
life…the most interesting people I know didn’t know at 22 what they
wanted to do with their lives, some of the most interesting 40 year
olds I know still don’t. Get plenty of calcium. Be kind to your knees, you’ll miss them when they’re gone. Maybe you’ll marry, maybe you won’t, maybe you’ll have children,maybe
you won’t, maybe you’ll divorce at 40, maybe you’ll dance the funky
chicken on your 75th wedding anniversary…what ever you do, don’t
congratulate yourself too much or berate yourself either – your
choices are half chance, so are everybody else’s. Enjoy your body,
use it every way you can…don’t be afraid of it, or what other people
think of it, it’s the greatest instrument you’ll ever
own.. Dance…even if you have nowhere to do it but in your own living room. Read the directions, even if you don’t follow them. Do NOT read beauty magazines, they will only make you feel ugly. Get to know your parents, you never know when they’ll be gone for
good. Be nice to your siblings; they are the best link to your past and the
people most likely to stick with you in the future. Understand that friends come and go,but for the precious few you
should hold on. Work hard to bridge the gaps in geography and
lifestyle because the older you get, the more you need the people you
knew when you were young. Live in New York City once, but leave before it makes you hard; live
in Northern California once, but leave before it makes you soft. Travel. Accept certain inalienable truths, prices will rise, politicians will
philander, you too will get old, and when you do you’ll fantasize
that when you were young prices were reasonable, politicians were
noble and children respected their elders. Respect your elders. Don’t expect anyone else to support you. Maybe you have a trust fund,
maybe you have a wealthy spouse; but you never know when either one
might run out. Don’t mess too much with your hair, or by the time you're 40, it will
look 85. Be careful whose advice you buy, but, be patient with those who
supply it. Advice is a form of nostalgia, dispensing it is a way of
fishing the past from the disposal, wiping it off, painting over the
ugly parts and recycling it for more than
it’s worth. But trust me on the sunscreen…

A New Semester

2010-11-29T19:40:00.000-08:00

Many people measure their lives by semesters.

"Ah, i'll do it next semester"

"I can hang out more after this semester"

"I can't wait till Fall semester is over, so that I can start Spring semester and have warmer weather"

"A few more weeks left in this semester and then FREEDOM...and then we start next semester"

Of course, you only really think in these terms if you are a college student, or *sometimes* a strict high school student of some crazy sort. The rest of the world goes on living month to month, season to season. Enjoying random Tuesdays, President's day's, and other things that normal people enjoy....I wouldn't really know.

So speaking of ....next semester, I always find myself being Mrs. Organized right before a semester starts. I have all my books ordered, my papers straightened out in a binder, my bike tuned up, and I'm ready to roll.

This of course only lasts for about a week. (excluding the weekend)

After that week: my books are out of stock at one place, and I forget to reorder them else where, papers get thrown in the car, dance bag, backpack, purse, OR (if i'm lucky) loosely in the binder, I decide to ride my bike in flip flops down the icy roads of Flagstaff causing my foot to get stuck under a pedal and break my toe which THEN leads to my bike sitting outside and the seat gets ruined/stolen, I stop reading the assigned chapters/readings. Basically all hell breaks loose, and I find myself desperately trying not to drown in the havoc, and longingly await next semester where I swear things will be different.

BUT NOT THIS SEMESTER!! This semester will go according to plan. (maybe)

And I wish you all a fabulous (end of Fall/beginning of Spring) semester as well, whether or not your organization skills are similar to mine.

Now some of you (and by some I mean the 1 1/2 people who read this blog) might be thinking "Wait?.....Didn't you just graduate, like the semester before last?" (see what I did there.... :D)

and the answer is: Yes! I did indeed graduate the semester before last, and there is yet another semester before me. For what? Only time will tell....'tis a mystery.

speaking of "tis"

'tis the season I suppose...and our tree is up! But without the star because I am unable to find an extension cord. epic fail.

that.is.all

RE-ASSESS!

2010-11-01T21:07:00.000-07:00

In 'The School of Education' you constantly hear the word "re-assess".
If you're falling behind in you lesson plans this week.... RE-ASSESS!
If the agenda for a child planned at the IEP meeting isn't working.....RE-ASSESS!
If you are teaching a math lesson and children are staring at you blankly........RE-ASSESS!

If none of this is making any sense to you, I will put it into different terms.

Your plan to stick up to the bully at school and speak you mind lands you in a trash can.......RE-ASSESS!
No one comments on your obvious new hair style.....RE-ASSESS!
You tell your dog to "sit" and he jumps up and licks your face........RE-ASSESS!

okay, you get the point......
So to re-assess means to revise something. To go back, and redo it. Reteach it, edit it, or....scrap it and it's back to the drawing board, because obviously it is not working out as well as you planned.

I think it is time to re-assess some things in my life.

On another note...I have a little something to share. It is something I have been working on a little bit. It is no where near what I want it to be yet. It needs A LOT of editing....revising....maybe its time to re-assess? just kidding. enjoy:

I walked in by myself with my tight gray t-shirt and converse and looked for someone I knew. The crowd was thick but I managed to spot the skinny soccer girl from my calculus class sitting near the front row. She was pretty cool, definitely the person I talked to the most in that class, so I headed that way. I didn’t notice who she was sitting with until I was almost right by her. It was too late to turn around, she already saw me. Time slowed down and my heart pounded harder in my chest. People in the bleachers were constantly standing up and down to cheer for their son, or boyfriend, or wanna be boyfriend, but they were all a blur to me.

“Hey Miles, how’s it going” calculus girl said with her smirk smile. I couldn’t quite remember her name.

I didn’t respond for what seemed like ages. I was still breathless, like someone had punched me in the stomach. The half time buzzer brought me back to reality.

“Hey. It’s good I think” I eventually responded

“You think? Ha ha! Oh this is my friend Kira”

I know. I know that is Kira. Fuck. I had legitimately put her in the back of my mind, but it was all coming back now. Why? Why was she here at our school watching our basketball game? I was pretty sure she didn’t even go here, or I would have seen her by now for sure. At first I thought maybe she was a new kid or something, but I hadn’t seen her around at all. And now she is with calculus girl?! Seriously the widest variety of friends I have ever seen.

“Yea we’ve met” Kira said without looking away from the court, even though the basketball players were now filing off into the locker room. She seemed concerned.

“Really? How did you guys meet? I met Kira up on the mountain last winter” Calculus girl said sort of directed at me. Her name's Shelly I was pretty sure.

“Uh…..well we met at a concert. Kira was with these two girls that go to West Point. I know them from other concerts and such” My voice trailed, Kira still hadn’t looked up. She hated me, I figured.

I sat down next to Shelly. We talked a bit about our recent homework assignment while Kira sat there saying nothing. She had moved her concentration to writing some phrase on the side of her shoe in small letters and black ink. Eventually a couple other girls that I knew Shelly was friends with from the soccer team came over. I moved to the bench below everyone and scooted over a little so they could sit by her. The second half of the game was already into full swing and I pretended to be interested. Kira slid down to the bleacher I was sitting on and scooted closer to me. She sat there for a few silent seconds then looked at me.

“Wanna go get nachos?” she said still seeming kind of off.

“Sure” I replied

“We’ll be right back” she said to Shelly as we were already walking away.

“Okay!” she yelled back in her peppy voice.

We didn’t say anything while walking up to the snack bar line. I felt like it was the green mile. I had this feeling in my stomach that I thought would slowly eat away my insides and my face was probably on fire.

“Like jalapeños?” she asked before the lady scooped the biggest spoonful of them I had ever seen on top of our nachos.
“What? Uh..Yea, I love them” I replied

“Good” she took the nachos and paid. She started walking toward the double doors instead of the gymnasium. “Let’s go for a walk”

Don't be too harsh...but tell me what you think!

Living the Dream

2010-10-05T20:56:00.000-07:00

You always hear about people and their dreams.

The barista with a dream to open his own shop.

The book worm with a dream of a full ride to Yale.

The teen mom with a dream of an un-broken family,

or the business man with the dream of the Red Sox winning the World series (which is a stupid dream in my opinion).

And sometimes those people's dreams come true leaving them saying "i'm living a dream". But that doesn't really happen, does it?

Indeed it does!

Growing up, I always had one (and only one) dream in mind. It was all I could think about at all times, and everyone knew it.

It wasn't to graduate college (which I busted out anyway)

It wasn't to get married (which was the best thing that ever happened to me)

It wasn't to have kids, or an adorable little puppy (okay maybe the puppy thing a little bit :) )

But my ultimate dream WAS to be a resident of California, and specifically, Southern California.

So now, thanks to my awesome husband, we live in San Diego, California and (I can proudly say) my Governor is Arnold Schwarzenegger.

If that's not the coolest thing since digital camera's, I don't know what is.

Although my dreams have changed vastly over the years, I still have always had that passion for the 'sunshine state', 'America's finest city', or 'the land of milk and honey'.

So I guess you could say that....

I'm living the dream

now to unpack, find a job, get settled, learn the area, learn the new laws, change all the state legal stuff......on and on.....

Fear

2010-08-15T19:26:00.000-07:00

Fear.
It is something people revolve their life around. When breaking down the principles of a human and their feelings, it consists of what they do, what they love, and what they fear.
Some people construct their entire lives around what they fear, while others fear very little.

When first thinking in depth about fear, I though it was stupid, worthless, and a way for people to make excuses out of anything. I see now that I was very wrong. When I looked into it more, I found that fear is powerful, wild, and very important to each individual's life.
Fear, if used correctly, can bring out a side of someone that is passionate, strong, and alive.
When you look into the eyes of someone who just overcame a fear, there is more life in them than usual. They just did something they thought they could never do. They are a stronger person.
Fear isn't the enemy, being too afraid is.
Fear challenges you to live on the edge. Being too afraid leads you to turn your back on fear, and give up.
I have always been one who doesn't have many fears, but the fears I do have run strong through me.
I thought I could never face them, and in turn tried to ignore their ever existence, but it is time for that to come to an end. I am at a point in my life where my fear's could be a major road block if I don't face them, so it's time to man up. It is going to be hard, but more than worth it in the end.
I have also always been one to thrive on fear. A scary movie or fearful situation, although hard at first, it makes my blood pump and I always feel good afterwards.
There is not a fear in the world I can't work my way through.
I have the most supportive husband in the world, so that on days when I feel it's impossible, he can help push me through it.
My fears: IV's, needles, fire, certain insects
It is time to approach you face to face.
Right now a clean cold needle going into soft warm skin makes me want to curl up like a scared spider, but not for long. After all it's just a needle right? I have experienced things that hurt much worse. It's all mental.
I will win.
What are your fears? and have you chosen to leave them in the shadows, or face them up front?

and the waves slowly crashed into the sand.

2010-08-02T21:30:00.000-07:00

Well....The wedding is over. And it was fabulous by the way...but a wedding blog is soon to come.

Anyhoo, the wedding is over so I can no longer put things off. No longer will I put off cleaning/organizing the house, thank you cards, articles, organizing the computer, finishing Red Dead Redemption, playing the guitar....

but most of all, as promised, no more putting off the Craft Blog. dun dun dun.

So I will start it off with a super simple craft. A decoration for a beach themed home, or a summer holiday. An item that portrays a calm, collect, and relaxed mood.....

The Mason Jar Lights

Items:

Hot glue gun

Glue sticks

Sand

Shells

Mason Jars

Small candles

Long lighter

Wire

1. Locate your mason jars of choice and thoroughly clean them out. Allow the jars to completely dry. I chose to use blue jars.

2. Unscrew the lid and set it aside. Cover the bottom of a candle with hot glue and immediately press it on the inside bottom of the jar. Hold the candle in place until it is dry. This size of candle works great, tea lights tend to not burn very well inside the mason jar.

3. Place large and colorful shells inside the mason jar around the candles.

4. Fill in the remaining space with sand and small shells. Whether it is sand that you collected, or bought from the store, they both have the same affect.

5.Wrap a thin wire around the neck of the jar, and add a large loop to hang it from something (a tree, the porch, etc.)

6. Light the candle with a long lighter (campfire lighter works best) and allow the wax to melt like the waves into the sand.

And the final product (minus the large shells)

This was one of the jars at our wedding.

photo by Logan Brumm

Check in again soon for the wedding/honeymoon blog. Lots of pictures to come!

K.A.S.

2010-07-03T04:11:00.000-07:00

In exactly one week from today my name will be Mrs. Kassie Stewart. Which means my initials will of course be K.A.S. How awesome is that? Wow, I can't believe it is one week until the wedding. I am so excited to officially be married and start to plan things again. Right now, and for forever its been "I'll worry about it after the wedding", "I will make the decision after the wedding" over and over again. Which is great for now! but once the wedding has happened and we have gone on our amazing Disney vacation, we will be able to make decisions and think about other important things again like....deciding where to move, and what to do with life. Yes I said it, where to move. The options are endless.

But first, I am so excited for the first night with my 'husband' <3 Even though he is already my husband at heart.

As "the 4th" is just around the corner, my favorite holiday, and I am now FINALLY 21!, life is like a raft in the rapids; moving so quickly, yet so fun. The one night everyone waits for their whole drawn out life is over in such a short amount of time. It was a fantastic conclusion to looking forward to birthdays.

Vegas = unbelievable

So many exciting things happening at once.

I have also decided that I am going to kinda make my blog a crafting blog. I will do random unique crafts and designs (mostly to home decor) and blog about it.....after the wedding of course. But for real, we will see how that goes. I have taken a strong interest in the matter.

I also think my travel bone has been re-enhanced. I am willing to go anywhere at (almost) anytime to see the beautiful world. I am pretty sure my heart would stop beating if I ever came across a place like this.....

pure beauty

Tell me about a place that you have been that was so pretty it literally took your breath away. I want to be there. In the light wind with the salt and humidity in my hair, or in a winter jacket and boots with the stillness in my breath. I want to see it all.

I'm better than a real world quest.

2010-06-02T21:08:00.000-07:00

First off, I'd like to introduce you to me with no braces.....

Yes, after the double re-constructive jaw surgery that I have been wanting since I was ten and finally got about a year ago, AND lots and lots of work before and after it, it has finally paid off.

Not only do I not have headaches every.single.day, and no longer does my jaw click or ache in pain constantly, but my confidence level has risen from about a 30% to a 75%. Wild eh?

On another good note, the Snoop has been MUCH much better with the potty training.

Not to mention he's huge now!

and oh so very cute (yes I am slightly obsessed with my dog)

NOW

....for something I have never ever done before...

I am going to post a little snippet of something I am writing that will be used for something someday....or not.

Probably not, but anyway....

After about 20 minutes of sitting in class and taking the exam, (the kid with the red and black converse with green shoelaces had an extra score sheet, no surprise there) I remember the missed calls and voicemails. I immediately get so distracted I have no chance of getting anything more than a 61% on the test. I’m sorry different types of crystallizing minerals in Arizona. Your sweet knowledge will have to wait. I wiggle my phone out of my pocket and open it half inside my pocket, and half out like a ninja. I’m so used to this now I hardly remember what my full key pad looks like.

.......(stuff in between here)........

“Miss Ross I see your phone is out so you must be finished with your test, bring me your scan score sheet please.”

Shit. Not ninja enough.

so anyway back to whats new in real life.

The 21st bday is in about a month....VEGAS!

and the wedding is about in a month.....LOTS TO DO!

I can't stop thinking about the last episode of Breaking Bad that I watched

and random...but about ever two to three weeks or so I get re-obsessed with this video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=urNyg1ftMIU

I kinda wish this video was my life, substituting the people for my own friends/family of course

She's hotter than reality by far....

teh tennis ball

2010-04-28T17:15:00.000-07:00

If i learned anything this past weekend folks, its don't trust hotels with your credit card, and the game of tennis is like a whole other world. seriously. a land where grass is always fresh and trimmed, skirts have built in shorts to put balls in.......tennis balls that is, and old leathery women kick ass.
Now it is knows that Tennis Ball is a 'rich people's' sport. I understand why now. how on earth anyone can afford shirts and skirts that are 50 dollars a piece at least, rackets in the hunddy's and epic shoes, I have no idea. It blows my mind, but yet the items are so niceeee! Never do I ever want to sweat in any other material. tennis clothes material rapes any other material. by far.
Amy and I had our first tournament this weekend and it was quite wild. Considering we are technically 2.5 players, signed up for 3.0 knowing there would be no 2.5 section, and got put in 4.0!!! we knew we would get our hiney's handed to us, but we learned a lot and got to play a long, sweaty, sun burned match against each other. We are sore and tired and so excited to get even better at tennis to receive revenge.....Not really, but just to get better :D Well that was tennis ball time for today.
Snoop was also in the tennis ball mood.

and so our story begins.........

2010-04-17T18:49:00.000-07:00

In order to get myself "re-vamped" about the wedding im gonna put some of my wedding inspiring pictures up. And now i have time to plan it because school is done (having mini silent celebration)!!! -crowd goes wild-
so anyhoo I have some pictures here that may help me get excited! let me know what you think!!
beautiful LITTLE ranch, for a nice SMALL wedding ;)

Pretty pretty wedding cakes

mason jar lights!!!

My amazingly creative MOH who is going to be my help me make a beautiful wedding

the ultimate outdoor wedding

and of course the person who is going to make me forget about all these small and large details the whole time anyways ;)

i love jason

anyhoo. oh so very excited about being done with school. the tennis tournament next weekend, Jason getting a job at demand studios, us both having interviews for our dream job (:D) more time at home, casa grande time nearing, and of course, the snoop dogg getting a little better with the potty training *sigh*

cutest puppy in the world

just a tid

2010-04-01T22:00:00.000-07:00

I got on myspace today. yes...wanted to see if it still exsisted. was simply reminded of why i do not enter that site ever anymore. My computer just can't handle it these days. I'm surprised its still holding on long enough to defeat facebook and lesson plans. but its a little chug-a-chug-a CHOO CHOOOO!
i was ALSO reminded of the young ladies who "enriched their lives" at a young age aka fucked up. oops.
In place of where their name is it says "my life is my daughter" or "johnny's milf" like really? babies don't sell sex...just saying. but whatev, it works for them ya figure.

good news in the land of casa grande, which is ya know...NICEEEEEE.
I am expecting my life to vastly improve in about a month (3 weeks especially), might as well add to my already amazing life <3
but the life of student teaching is almost over and I couldn't be happier. So happy in fact, that it seems like those three weeks are eternity.
probably because they basically are.

super rant, might as well not even read it

2010-03-30T20:36:00.000-07:00

the orange-vanilla gloves await me tomorrow
Along with good news I am hoping.
If not, it was worth getting out of school at least. Either way, i'm excited. (plus sleeping in a bit) so cross YO fingers

On another note, I am never getting a puppy ever again. sticking to full grown adult POTTY TRAINED dogs. forever. end of story. at least until i forget how stressful of a job it really is again. I mean i dont understand it. Fully potty trained by the first few days, then all of a sudden, going in one spot just doesn't make sense anymore now does it.

I have decided i am sincerely tired of not having enough time. Not enough to do anything i enjoy. Not even enough time to do the things i HATE but have to do. i'm tired of it. I wanna bust out the guitar, write some songs, DAAANNNCCCEEE god i want to dance so bad its eating my soul. play some vide'a games, shoot watch a movie. but no, inclined to glue to the laptop. i WILL say though i am very thankful for the tennis ball. yes folks tennis ball. I have been getting into it quite a bit recently with my gorgeous and amazing doubles partner Amy. We have been practicing for sure, and got some skillz up our sleeves, well not hard core sleeves, but we're pretty proud. I even got some new "sticks" sssheck it out.

After Thursday it is three more weeks in hell, then just two 'observations' weeks. who knows how that will go. better than Yogurt i'm sure.
also...on a little side note, it is a little less then 3 months until the baby calikas is venti uno, yes you spanish illit's 21. that means just a little over 3 months until we get married!!!!!!!

I am SOOOO excited to get married! ah nice relaxing time with my favorite person in the whole world, and no more planning!!!!!! wooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
anyhoo sorry, once again, for ranting. i suppose thats all my blog is. i should rename it.......rant. yep.
sempre ballare

Snoop

2010-03-16T01:03:00.001-07:00

I just had to inform you of the newest most adorable addition to our family.

Snoop [dogg]

Best Game of All Time

2010-02-24T20:13:00.000-08:00

I am here to blog about the best game of all time.

Ms. Pac-Man

Yes this 1981 arcade game is my favorite game of all time, and is the best game in my opinion.
So I thought i'd just share a little of my intake from the game.

The game of quite an epic story line indeed. You are searching and searching for something missing when you finally find...could it be...another one like me? yes good 'ol Pac Man. A few levels later you have the chase, then move on to the baby and on and on. Constantly collecting your food as you go.

There are of course the enemies. Blinky is the leader of the pack. His red fire hate for you keeps him chasing you the whole entire game. If you are near him, he will ALWAYS come your way. GNT
Pinky is the wanna be. He wants to be Blinky SOOOOO bad. It's honestly annoying. like be your own person. a leader not a follower man.....
Inky. my personal favorite. He is the most chill of the bunch (blue in color). If you are near him, sure he'll take a stab at you, but most days he spends his time roaming from tunnel to tunnel hangin out with Sue dogg.
and about that Sue..... not the brightest crayon in the box(pale orange btw). Everytime you get a big dot that turns their world from love to hate, she immediately turns in the opposite direction to run away. Catch her passing a big dot, run up behind her and eat the dot. Easy kill. On the other hand, if you get killed by Sue you should probably quit life. Just sayin....

other random things...
random obsession with bananas
joystick screwing you over
almost making it....but not quite
namco niceeeee
the pretzel???
map repeats in different colors

If you are interested in picking this little magnificent game back up, I will give you a few tips for success in chasing dots and avoiding ghosts.
Rule number one. NEVER be greedy. Greed is the number one killer among moderate to advanced Ms. Pac-Man players. It is tempting I know. I fall for it quite often, but it is NOT worth it. mind you, we only have three lives to start with. Blinky and Pinky are bound to trap you into a corner. Use them wisely.

Rule number two. Never leave a lone ranger dot hanging out on its own. You are bound to forget about him and rely too much on rounding a corner to finish, what you thought were, the last dots. You see the ghost coming, but you know for a fact you will finish the dots before they get to you, so you let it slide. Suddenly...you keep going. WHY?!?! you may ask. WTF you are thinking. Ah yes....you left a dot lonely and by his self causing the game to continue and you find yourself in a head on collision. your mistake. Bet you will go back for him next time.

Rule number three. do not, i repeat, DO NOT find your self in a chase down a long hallway. The ghosts ARE faster than you, and WILL gain on your quickly. They are in fact slower at rounding corners than you are though, so that is the better option.

Rule number four. Stay away from the little white entrance of the ghosts living courters. not safe in any situation.

Rule number five......eating the ghosts is not everything. You get points yes, but make sure you are prepared for them to respond with the quickness. swiftly coming to take your life away.

I hope you revisit this little piece of happiness, it was probably 15% of my whole childhood, and I have been recently reunited. I couldn't be happier : D

If life wasn't epic enough....

2010-02-21T23:41:00.000-08:00

It just got even more so....
We moved yet again this weekend due to slowly dying of gas poisoning in our recent location of sleeping and eating, etc. We now live approximately 50 feet away from our last house....which made for an interesting, last second, emergency move. Those were all adjectives for the word move btw, in case you were wondering...brushing up on them since I am to teach them tomorrow. oh joy

On a better note, had some alone time with the fiance this weekend which was so niceeee considering we have been planning for date night for WEEKS. but because of continuing illnesses due to certain gas leaks, it kept becoming postponed. Olivas is quite tasty I must say, but BEST PART OF THE RESTAURANT EVER is the old school mrs. pac man machine. yes, that game is what makes a Mexican restaurant a true Mexican restaurant. hands down. and Andes mints......

and if you thought the weekend couldn't get any better/wild/out of the ordinary-ish it DOES. I went dress 'shopping' today, aka my aunt brought her collection of dresses to me in the comfort of my own living room, and i ended up picking the very first dress I tried on. After I made the final decision, She GAVE me the dress. yes, gave. along with the little things that go with it. very very financially relieving. thanks so much Aunt 'Drea!!

To sum up what is ahead of me? Lots of lesson plans, lots of second graders, lots of unpacking/organizing, little bit of wedding stuff and lots of baby Lily growing like corn in front of my eyes. (you can hear corn grow btw. google that biznitch) ....google, yahoo, bing..... all the samely known as 'google', its like saying a 'ziplock bag' meaning a small sandwich size bag of which two plastic things click together at the top sealing the bag completely. We don't say all that, we say ziplock, even if it is not that brand. but anyhoo, yes Lily=fastest growing human being alive besides Robin Williams from the movie Jack.

anyhoo take care,C'est la vie, all we need is love. period.

it happened again.

2010-01-12T20:34:00.001-08:00

And the world has wisked another away. falling into the 'deps of society' and losing touch of the little things. I remember staying in my car to finish a good song, driving around the block with my friends on a school night was the best.thing.ever., a glass of sweet tea, a good dance class, remembering I have a candy bar in my purse, and many many other small things (smaller than those even) that would change my world around each and every day. A single small things would automatically put a smile on my face while taking me into an alternate reality for the rest of the day.

You think you will always be pleased this easily.

but it begins to change. Today a white limo was parked outside our little condos. OUR little condos in our little neighborhood. like, What On Earth?? Who i am....was...who i thought i was would have shreiked at the sight of this and thought about it for hours on end. How cool was it that I saw a limo today, not only driving but PARKED on my road. that woulda blew my mind. But thats not what I thought. The first thing I thought was who the HELL is parked so close to my covered spot. after this long day..... like wtf? i'm not like that am I?

I used to count things. to pass the time. I would count telephone poles, every stair of every staircase I crossed, anything just to keep myself thinking. Now I have to much 'real world' to think about that I cant even think about things I WANT to think about.

When did this change come on? i'm not sure. Why? also not sure. Do I hate people who ask themselves questios just to answer themselves like Kate Gosslin? yes.

In conclusion. I am not all the way gone. so maybe i'll pull back. Like a Yankees Dodgers game in the bottom of the 9th inning 4 to 5, 2 strikes, bases loaded.

Christmas Children

2009-12-23T15:34:00.000-08:00

Do you remember what Christmas was like when you were a little kid. Like REALLY remember??? When as soon as December hit, it felt like a whole other year before Christmas would get here. Each and every day was the longest day, and the month dragged on forever. A child on Christmas never has to worry about finances around the holidays, they go with dad to buy moms presents, and mom to buy dads present, and maybe gather up a couple dollars to buy them a candy bar as a surprise. The holiday travel worries never cross their mind, they just go where everyone else goes, and don't even think about it. They don't need to decide which family to visit, when, what gifts, nope! they just open and enjoy. And what about baking!!! baking is not a stressful activity where you have to make enough cookies with enough variety to make a cookie plate for every single person you know(because heaven forbid you forget someone). You simply make cookies for Santa. Santa is the only reason to make cookies, point blank. The tree, to a child, is put there to zone out into every night, and shake each and every present and inspect them closely to guess every gift under there, even if its not for them. To a child everyone is always happy around Christmas, as we know this it not really true, they think that solely because of the man they see all fourteen times they go to Safeway in December, who stands outside with his red bucket. He smiles and says Merry Christmas, lets you ring his little bell, and gives you a huge smile as you slip a green piece of paper into his red bucket. I mean, EVERYONE is happy around Christmas time right?

In conclusion, i realize that Christmas is pretty much just for little kids which is why I am happy to say that I am in the hospital RIGHT NOW, waiting for my beautiful sister-in-law to have baby Lily. Another child to have fun on the Holidays with. I cant wait to see her face when she opens presents, when she is laughing and running around, and of course when i teach her her first dance lesson. Oh Lily we cant wait to meet you.....TODAY!

just sayin.

2009-12-15T20:41:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wondered why people start the carrerrs they do? Like what sparked their interest in these things? For example. What, is a guy at a bar with his buddies, having some beers, 'shootin the shit' and whatever, and Ron just goes "ya know what guys....i'm gonna start a waste business. Yep, thats right. I'm gonna go around and collect everyones trash!! like, EVERYONES then i'm gonna squish all together and put it somewhere. Maybe bury it, maybe burn it, maybe just pile it up in the ocean, who knows, but thats what i'm gonna do! It will be great, we can get giant trucks to put everyones random garbage in, and it will all be ours! we can hire fellow trash lovers to help us it will be niiiiiccceeee"

Or what about a morgue. Like I heard an advertisement for a mortuary on the radio today. Is that something you normally advertise for??? Like ah we gotta bury Grandpa today, which morgue should we choose? OOOO OO I saw a really good one on tv today! It has nice prices, plenty of tissues, and top of the line white rose caskets. Then it made me thing, who would randomly open a morgue? Someones just like "Yes, i want a place where people are always sad, ALWAYS, and crying of course. I want a collection of caskets, flowers everywhere, and we will put people into the ground all along my property. It will be just lovely. Thank god for the people who do think this way, i suppose in a funny way, but I cant imagine it.
I know some people work at these places, because its all they can find, or it pays good, or good hours, but who opens up these businesses? just sayin.

will we have a Lily for Christmas?!

2009-12-15T20:31:00.000-08:00

As you know, the holidays and 'right around the corner'. Almost exactly one year ago i posted a blog about how much I wasn't in the Christmas spirit, and how nothing around me put me in the Christmas mood. This year is quite different. Although I don't have NEAR as many decorations, or people being like "oooo christmas" every ten seconds, or even as much snow, I am in the mood to share the gifts, surprises (kinda), and time with my family. I am also enjoying xmas with many new people this year who will be in my life forever. Three of which are the best friends I could ever ask for, Jason (of course), Amy and Eddie. Although I am so excited, I realize that xmas is a week and 3 days away, then it will be over. Do you ever feel all that hype is a little.....over the top?, xmas shopping, wrapping, cards, cookies, decorations, money, money, monies!!! then you wake up on December 25th and its over. wild. I cant wait to see how this one pans out.....shoot. speaking of which, i need to (not only finish the xmas shopping) but FIGURE OUT what i'm getting everyone. eeeeexcellent.

Also, I have already come up with my New Years resolution. It is epic and in detail and I cannot wait to start it. (in fact I may start early). I suggest everyone start thinking of theirs, even in the holiday mumble jumble, or else you will find yourself on new years eve without one, and resort to one that is stupid, unplanned out, and impossible to complete like "lose weight" or w/e. so get busy you!!! I will be waiting to hear what they are.

On another note, i simply CAN NOT WAIT for my new niece to arrive. like for reals. i cant wait. so on with the show Amy.... :) jk. although I know you would love the show to go on asap as well. I have a niece and a nephew already, but they live in a completely different state as me, and i have seen my niece like once. wow. I can wait to watch my new niece, miss Lily, grow up just two.....yes TWO, streets down from me. I will babysit her and teach her all my crazy dancer ways. heh heh heh. so the question remains......Will We Have A Lily For Christmas?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?

The rest of the blog is all just ranting:

Speaking of dance... I had a very interesting and fun show not too long ago. I have a LOT of support there (thank you jay, mom, dad, amy, eddie) and a lot of people supporting in their heart. I wasn't expecting it to be that fun of a show, it wasnt as big, i'm not in company blah blah. but seeing the reaction on the faces of the audience always makes any show worth while. No matter the reason they are there. <3
I am also prospecting a new job in the dance world just down the street in my new little town of which I live. I really REALLY hope this job pulls through. I haven't wanted something this bad (of this context) in a long time.

Had another one of those 'trips' today to phx. yes, the orange vanilla sunscreen-like gloves and everything. more disappointments like always. but someone said "its almost over don't worry" then went on to add "haha i know i know, everyone told me that in a different situation of mine, and it didnt make me feel better" but the fact that they added that part DID make me feel better, so thank you. It will be over soon enough. and all will be well ta ta for now.

do you ever....

2009-11-18T16:26:00.000-08:00

Do you ever find the perfect present for someone. the PERFECT present. Like all these years around christmas time, you had spent hours looking for a present this person would at least like, or find use of, and you the found the perfect one..... but then you remember they passed away a little while back. almost makes you wanna get it anyway.

Or what about putting something somewhere where you know you wont find it in forever. but you put it there anyway. Like today. I love those free itunes songs cards you can get from starbucks. I got one today, and put it in the back pocket of my pants (that i hardly wear) with this exactly thougth going through my head "i wonder how long it will take me to find this card again....hmmm".

OR that random cute store. You always walk past it and make a mental note to stop there someday. But why not just stop there now? You're obviously not in that much of a hurry, because you are walking, but still you pass it and put it on the back burner. once again.

why do we do these things i wonder.... or maybe i only do them. hmmmmmmmm.

PS

2009-11-05T20:42:00.000-08:00

I forgot almost the more important part...which may have been the reason for the post, on the way back while counting cop cars i saw something....two of something that completely made my day. TWO left4dead2 billoards. Magical.

Trip to Casa Grande

2009-11-05T20:07:00.000-08:00

Another one of those day trips to Casa Grande. The whole drive there i'm too tired to think of anything so i just listen to the "new hiphop (96.3 todays best hiphop and R&B)" on the phx stations. its that or the mexican music...which isnt too bad. Changing the station of course to country music as soon as i hit Casa Grande limits, becuase not doing that is like driving up the coast of California and never stopping to let your toes sink in the sand. But speaking of hiphop music I thought i had seen it all. I thought Lil Wayne had paired up and made a duet with everyone possible. but SOME HOW i forgot Fergie-ferg....how this one slipped my mind still puzzles me... and funny how the knew sound effect of choice in hip-hop music is the air horn often heard at basketball games.... ?
There is something about this doctors office that always gets me. The way his orange-vanilla flavored gloves (which freaked me out at first till i remembered he's an orthadontist) really smell like the best sunscreen you can imagine. He whistles to every country western song that comes on without missing a beat. Asks every patient about their life, remembering details. "He there mike, so this saturday is your last soccer game eh?" Randomly taking the phone from one of his latino patients to talk to their parent speaking in complete fluent spanish. Each chair with its own movie, so i can watch The Little Mermaid over and over again in one day..... And then there is the "blue" room which his wife apparently decopaused (cant spell) with pictures from his family's scuba diving trip. Normally you would think "wow way to rub your money in our face" but 80% of the pictures are of the intreaging sea animals which makes the xrays and pictures much more relaxing. Somehow though I always leave this place in the worst mood. Like he has done everything right, over the top even, i'm not even paying that much yet I never get news I like to hear. I'm sure there will be only one time i leave this place estatic, and that will be close to the last time i visit.
The drive back is usually the time to reflect on my life, think about how it would be if the world, for once, was in perfect harmony with all its living things. or choreograph of course. Not this time though, as i sat in "rush hour" i decided to dance in my car and count cop cars. There were 14 by the way, from casa grande to Flagstaff all of which had someone pulled over. Except one, who was riding BY HIMSELF in the carpool lane at 4 in the afternoon. Sorry...but you are not exempt to the rules unless there is an emergency and you are flashing your pretty red and blue lights. After i got out of rush hour, which turned out to really be one car pulled to the side becuase of a flat tire, i zoned back into choreography mode. t'was an eventfull trip which led me to come home, change and rush straight to dance, then back home for too much homework causing me to skip out on my first class.....and second. :O oh well, i'm coninvinced i wouldnt have learned much anyhoo....now that i'm done i'm not really sure where i was going with this blog.... but no backing down now. Post! vedo if you'd like.

purely inevitable

2009-10-29T21:36:00.000-07:00

All the good people in the world were walking their dogs on this fine winter day. I, though, couldnt stop thinking about a hot shower. The hottest shower imaginable. So hot....it almost hurts when you get in. I'm the kind of girl who sits in the car for a few minutes to listen to a song. Even if its on a cd that I could listen to later. Im the kind of person that values family and friends over money, but yet if i were shopping at a store alone and found the cutest shirt i had ever seen for 12 bucks, i wouldnt "waste the money"....what does that mean.

I couldnt wait to put in my two weeks at my place of employment. I thrived on it. that is how i got threw the work days, but now that I know monday is my last shift, I find a soft, sad spot somewhere. Little things like how i have memorized every single salsa song they play, how i will never find sourcream cilantro sauce anywhere else, how the people know me and my crazyness, and how i was actually appreciated. The owner said something to me today (whom i wasnt even sure knew my name) that really made me feel special. It isnt that bad of a job really....

As everyday passes I realize more and more that I need to coreograph. I dont think you understand that i NEED it. Everytime I find myself stressed, or in a odd position, i hear an enticive song and instantly coreography the entire song in my head. Maybe its not that special, and really everyone does this when they hear a song, but i dwell on it. I know every detail that matches the beat. I know how many dancers there will be, and what they will look like. When i am thinking of these dances, i am in a trance and everything else melts. I know if people saw my work they would like it, I cant say that about much else I come up with. The question is how... I want to watch someone do my choreography, to slide into the movement like it was what they were ment to do. And really feel the music. The roll they are playing when they dance it is their life at the moment, and everyone believes it.

I've realized lately that your closest friends all have a quality that you envy. Something that they are so flawless at, and you just cant understand it. Amy it is not only your incredible talent through words and your way of expressing yourself, but the will to stick with something you love no matter what. Eddie it is your work ethicics. I hardly hear you complain about having to go to work although i know it makes you sick to your stomach every time you have to walk out that door. You will always be the one so dependable, never breaks. Mom it is the passion to keep your life the way you want it no matter what. When you and dad didnt have a dime to your name you traded your guns for a small trailor because you WANTED it. You wanted to live in that trailor so bad and you did it. You wanted to deal poker, to sell real estate, own a resturant, own other shops, do your own taxes, raise a family, make your family happy, things that most people would look into the effort and brush it off thinking it as impossible. Nothing is impossible to you. Nothing. Dad it is beating the odds. Everyone who has the education that you do does nothing with their life right? not you. The most successful person I know, and never do you take it for granted. and Jason it is everything, that is why i love you. But one thing that absolutely blows my mind is how you think. Someone could think they are making intelligent remarks and comments but you pull the logics of it and make sense of everything. I cant really explain how you do this, but it amazes me. But more so it is how i can tell how much you really care for me, even in my crazy ways. I wouldnt say all of this btw if i didnt know the 3, maybe 4 people who will read this.

I'm not sure how comfortable I am writting this, and not just keeping the thought in my head. I go back and forth with this issue every time i write a blog. so once again, not promises how long this will be up. I'm sure when you read this it will seem like the most random, boring thing you have ever seen....but thats okay. thats all for now.

what about the layers?

2009-10-21T16:57:00.000-07:00

have you ever felt as though everything you touch breaks. Like you are some giant monster (a transformer maybe :P) in a home of a human, or better yet...a little person... (corrected for eddie) and you just want to pick up something to look at it, accidentally crushing it inbetween your fingers. Dust is all that remains. Of course when this happen everyone shreiks and gets upset and you feel like the worst person in the world. Saying you're sorry, and trying to put it back together, failing....
Even to the point where you hug someone and they go "oooouuuch!" cuz their arm was in a bad position and you just tweaked it to misery. Or someone sits on a bed, so you go sit on it with them and it skweaks and sounds like its gonna die...or better yet, it collapses!!! (this has happened to me). After a while it gets so frustrating. Put on a shirt, it rips. Open a box of cereal, you rip the little part that helps you close it. Get in your car, the tire goes flat. (okay....maybe not)...

but still....these days are torture i tell you. torture. Its like living like an Ogre....well at least they have layers.

rant-ollage

2009-09-30T17:51:00.000-07:00

Things that bother me today:
1. Running around town to find a stupid video for a class that I should have already watched, and never finding it.
2. Waiting about 7 minutes for a video to load on facebook just for it to have a litte box pop up that says ;laksjoir3984uqorija; error, and all you can do is push the only button available that says "okay" as if saying "its cool, no worries i'll come back and waste more of my time later"....no its not "OKAY".....
3. Working with stupid human beings and making only 25 dollars. If you see me sitting with over 100 empty salt and pepper shakers that need to be filled in 15 minutes before we open, and you are standing around doing nothing....what should one do??? Apparently this is a higher level thinking question. So excited to do it all over again tomorrow night!!
4. Not getting days off that i requested weeks ago for doctors appointments. I'm not going to reschedule them...sorry :/
5. Dance tonight with no Janelle and soar throat. aka going to miss so you think you can dance YET AGAIN.

Things i do like about today:
1. Buying Amy and Eddies EPIC birthday present :)
2. one step closer to the weekend.

why not?

2009-09-17T11:56:00.000-07:00

Ever have those mornings where you wake up and pour your cereal in a bowl because you're supposed to, thats what you do every morning. Suddenly realizing i'm not hungry I pour half back.... but still keep and force down half, just because. It's kinda like when I'm at work, and everyone else is drinking water so i find myself guilty for wanting cherry pepsi in that styrofoam cup of mine. Why not? why not drink a pepsi! i start to wonder aloud. Then the 5'2" loud mouth girl who was later fired that day (forcing me to stay longer) pipes in "Because it's bad for you!"...... yea?.... bad for you?... well so is that fatty enchilada your about to consume. hmmmm. I believe i'll be the judge as to what's bad for me or not. but don't hold me to that.

This brings me to my ultimate safe harbor. "why not". whenever i am feeling guilty for something stupid like a cherry coke, or a lazy weekend i'll just say that phrase. If i cant think of a reason that ultimately (but quickly) leads to death or despair, i wont hesitate another moment. As I'm writing this, I'm really thinking its just the mood I'm in at the moment, and i'll randomly change my mind later on. who knows.

Do you ever think about how sometimes we get so caught up in looking forward to things that we never experience them? I feel like i spend most my time looking forward to something so much that by the time its there, and I'm in that moment, i've already moved on and am wasting my time looking forward to something else. Why do i do that?? why cant everything just come as a pleasant surprise...i think i'll work on that.

As a conclusion I have to say that this blog has no relevance to the world and i was pretty much just rambling. I wont have many blogs like this one, most will seem a bit random at first but go into something worth reading. maybe. For those who will read my other thoughts just know: I'm a horrible speller (I hate this, but there is nothing i will do about it for now), I wont capitalize the letter "i" unless it puts a red squiggly under it which drives me to insanity, and I tend to switch tenses a lot (i am working on this one for reals). but its the thought that counts right? goodbye for now.