Psst...over here. Yes, that's right, keep reading. You have found my blog for today. I know you are just oh-so-excited to see what this fabulously tiny block of text has to say today. Or maybe you're bored. Either way, you better have some I.D. with you, I hear the blog police are out today.
Hot tea could possibly be one of my favorite drinks in the entire world-excluding coffee...the debate is still very much alive. But it just pairs so nicely with everything, like, say, playing a board game: perfect. Doing homework: yes, please. Pondering the universe: check. And the longer it sits there, the stronger it gets.
And the longer I stay in hot water, in stressful times and hard work, I would like to think I get stronger, too, in my little teacup of the universe. While everything seems overwhelming, and like I can't get up, there is a rope to hold onto and a difference being made. And that's what keeps me going.
One of my friends and I have been holding each other to the task of writing a new poem every single day. Whether it is good or bad (though most of hers have been pretty great so far), whether it is long or short, it's this idea of getting something on paper...every...single...day. And between writing this blog, and starting to write those poems, I would like to say I'm growing in some way. Maybe not in skill, though I hope that will come eventually, but at least in discipline, and dedication, and experience.
It may not sound like much...a single poem, a single blog post, but words and words and writing is writing and accountability is accountability. And I know I've written about that before, but it is just so important.
So today, as I crave my hot tea, and write my poem and write my blog post, and study for chemistry, and get ready for Easter, I want to stay focused on that growth. I may feel like I'm drowning, but I'm pulling myself through the water, swimming farther and farther every day. Just keep swimming, in the words of a very wise, very old sage whom I love. Just keep swimming, swimming, swimming. I remember when I was on the swim team (for a very, very short amount of time), I would take a breath and dive in. Every time I was under, I would feel like there was no way I was going to make it back up in time to get air, but no matter what,
I always did.
And I was still swimming. Keep swimming, and you will reach the other side. Keep swimming and maybe you can grab some hot tea when you finish (if you like that sort of thing).
The coffee in my veins doesn't appreciate this post, but I hope it makes sense, just a little bit. So have a fabulous Tuesday, you aquatic flip flops, and just keep swimming.
Tuesday, March 31, 2015
Monday, March 30, 2015
Electric Apples
What's up, my Monday fun-day friends?
It's been a crazy, hectic day here-class all day, chemistry lab, broken pH meters, wishing my sister goodbye, collecting forgotten pillows from the hotel...you know, the usual. And now, I get to settle in and rela-I mean...do homework.
I love days like this, though. It's gorgeous outside, the perfect temperature and the sun shining...turning everything in its wake crystal clear, hyper-vision. Trees are kissing the sky, grass ruffled by the breeze, frisbees are flying through the air. It feels like springtime.
Yesterday afternoon was almost as beautiful. And yesterday, I got to once again hang up my Eno and spend the day hanging out-you get it?-with my sister. "Hanging" out? I'm full of humor...laugh (or the blog police will find you). I have this huge, bright, neon yellow Eno, that, I'm sure if you tried to sleep in it, you couldn't...it would blind you. Sometimes I wrap myself up and flip over, and then the Eno kind of looks like a giant banana hanging in the tree (my sister's is a dark red, and so for some reason, she calls hers a plantain when she wraps it up. I don't know. I don't understand her.).
While we were hanging, and "hanging", and talking, and swinging, it was nice to take a moment and forget all my responsibilities...for just a moment. Sure, I have a bit of catching up to do now, and sure, my chemistry test still *hangs* in the near future (alright, alright, I'll quit with the puns), but for just the afternoon...it was peaceful.
It's weird to think there are only four more weeks of my freshman year of college...even weirder to think my sister will be a senior next year...both sisters, one graduating and one off to college the next year. It feels like I've done so much throughout the year, but at the same time, it's flown by. And I don't know if I'm ready for it to end yet.
I'm always afraid of time slipping away, of not getting to enjoy every minute of my experiences, especially here in college. But I spend so much time trying not to run out of time, that I forget to take breaks every once in a while. I'm always go, go, go-ing, trying to fit as many things into one day, one week, one semester...I get so caught up in everything I have to do, and I stress and I cram and I freak out.
So sometimes...I need to remind myself it doesn't have to be go-go-go. It can be a little bit of eno-eno-eno, too. I hope you have a moment to just stop, take a moment, take a break, go eno, or maybe pretend you are eno-ing, and get ready to face the week again. So have a great Monday, my Electric Apples. I know I'm trying to.
I love days like this, though. It's gorgeous outside, the perfect temperature and the sun shining...turning everything in its wake crystal clear, hyper-vision. Trees are kissing the sky, grass ruffled by the breeze, frisbees are flying through the air. It feels like springtime.
Yesterday afternoon was almost as beautiful. And yesterday, I got to once again hang up my Eno and spend the day hanging out-you get it?-with my sister. "Hanging" out? I'm full of humor...laugh (or the blog police will find you). I have this huge, bright, neon yellow Eno, that, I'm sure if you tried to sleep in it, you couldn't...it would blind you. Sometimes I wrap myself up and flip over, and then the Eno kind of looks like a giant banana hanging in the tree (my sister's is a dark red, and so for some reason, she calls hers a plantain when she wraps it up. I don't know. I don't understand her.).
While we were hanging, and "hanging", and talking, and swinging, it was nice to take a moment and forget all my responsibilities...for just a moment. Sure, I have a bit of catching up to do now, and sure, my chemistry test still *hangs* in the near future (alright, alright, I'll quit with the puns), but for just the afternoon...it was peaceful.
It's weird to think there are only four more weeks of my freshman year of college...even weirder to think my sister will be a senior next year...both sisters, one graduating and one off to college the next year. It feels like I've done so much throughout the year, but at the same time, it's flown by. And I don't know if I'm ready for it to end yet.
I'm always afraid of time slipping away, of not getting to enjoy every minute of my experiences, especially here in college. But I spend so much time trying not to run out of time, that I forget to take breaks every once in a while. I'm always go, go, go-ing, trying to fit as many things into one day, one week, one semester...I get so caught up in everything I have to do, and I stress and I cram and I freak out.
So sometimes...I need to remind myself it doesn't have to be go-go-go. It can be a little bit of eno-eno-eno, too. I hope you have a moment to just stop, take a moment, take a break, go eno, or maybe pretend you are eno-ing, and get ready to face the week again. So have a great Monday, my Electric Apples. I know I'm trying to.
Sunday, March 29, 2015
Caffeinated Gum Drops
Welcome back. It's Sunday Sunday SUNDAY! And on this Sunday of Sundays, I am hardcore craving some coffee (as obscurely referenced in today's post title). Caffeine is a dangerous thing...especially in looking back at the large, black coffee I shamefully bought at 10:45 last night.
No regrets. Ever.
Well, maybe a few as I was staring at my ceiling at 2:30 this morning, several dozen thoughts running through my mind and threatening to escape via my eyelids. I considered writing a blog post last night, but I didn't think my roommate would appreciate me fumbling with my laptop and all of its wonderful cords as she was trying to sleep.
But I did get to thinking...quite a bit...about all of the people in my life, and everything they have done to help shape me into who I am now. My family is coming in town today, so that's probably where my mind was at the time, but regardless...I couldn't stop thinking about it.
If I am a puzzle, then these people are helping find pieces that fit. It's unclear sometimes...okay, a lot of the time...why I am here and what purpose I'm going to serve. I can get so caught up in the day-to-day struggles of getting this and that done (as you can probably tell), and I am a worrier. I worry about what's going to happen tomorrow, if I will get my work turned in, if I'll have time to go to the gym, if I'll be able to see so and so...
But there's always something that makes my day, even little things. When there's spinach at the salad bar in the cafeteria. When I solve a physics problem I've been working on forever. When my Calculus professor darts from one end of the board to the next when he gets really excited about a problem. When the sun pokes out and hits the leaves at just the right angle.
But mainly, it's people.
It's people that mean the world to me, that are there when it all seems to come crashing down. People that I try to be there for, too, even when I'm not very good at it. People that send me a random text at 9:30 at night just to ask how my day has been, even when they are hundreds of miles away. People that you run into at the parking lot and go grab coffee way past reasonable hours. People that hear something totally random, like "nectarine", and immediately text you just to laugh. People that call you at midnight with long, complicated stories just wanting someone to listen. People sending you fears and failures that trust you enough to know you are listening. People who read my blog even when it is lame, or cheesy, or total bologna.
People are slowly putting puzzle pieces in place. And one day, far in the future, when I look back at the puzzle that's been made, I will know just how many people really made a difference in me. I'll see how it was all worth it. And I want it to be these, the little moments, that I remember when I look back on my life. These little moments and these very big people. Because I love them all so much.
So this Sunday, my caffeinated gum drops, I want to think about the importance of all those little things, that, in retrospect, really aren't that little. Because when you string together a bunch of little things, you get one Big thing. And, in the words of someone much wiser than me, well, that's what you call life.
Have some wonderful little moments today, my friends.
No regrets. Ever.
Well, maybe a few as I was staring at my ceiling at 2:30 this morning, several dozen thoughts running through my mind and threatening to escape via my eyelids. I considered writing a blog post last night, but I didn't think my roommate would appreciate me fumbling with my laptop and all of its wonderful cords as she was trying to sleep.
But I did get to thinking...quite a bit...about all of the people in my life, and everything they have done to help shape me into who I am now. My family is coming in town today, so that's probably where my mind was at the time, but regardless...I couldn't stop thinking about it.
If I am a puzzle, then these people are helping find pieces that fit. It's unclear sometimes...okay, a lot of the time...why I am here and what purpose I'm going to serve. I can get so caught up in the day-to-day struggles of getting this and that done (as you can probably tell), and I am a worrier. I worry about what's going to happen tomorrow, if I will get my work turned in, if I'll have time to go to the gym, if I'll be able to see so and so...
But there's always something that makes my day, even little things. When there's spinach at the salad bar in the cafeteria. When I solve a physics problem I've been working on forever. When my Calculus professor darts from one end of the board to the next when he gets really excited about a problem. When the sun pokes out and hits the leaves at just the right angle.
But mainly, it's people.
It's people that mean the world to me, that are there when it all seems to come crashing down. People that I try to be there for, too, even when I'm not very good at it. People that send me a random text at 9:30 at night just to ask how my day has been, even when they are hundreds of miles away. People that you run into at the parking lot and go grab coffee way past reasonable hours. People that hear something totally random, like "nectarine", and immediately text you just to laugh. People that call you at midnight with long, complicated stories just wanting someone to listen. People sending you fears and failures that trust you enough to know you are listening. People who read my blog even when it is lame, or cheesy, or total bologna.
People are slowly putting puzzle pieces in place. And one day, far in the future, when I look back at the puzzle that's been made, I will know just how many people really made a difference in me. I'll see how it was all worth it. And I want it to be these, the little moments, that I remember when I look back on my life. These little moments and these very big people. Because I love them all so much.
So this Sunday, my caffeinated gum drops, I want to think about the importance of all those little things, that, in retrospect, really aren't that little. Because when you string together a bunch of little things, you get one Big thing. And, in the words of someone much wiser than me, well, that's what you call life.
Have some wonderful little moments today, my friends.
Saturday, March 28, 2015
Button-Down Pine Trees {Saturday Song List Edition}
HEYO! Hope your day is going well so far! I know mine has been eventful for the morning.
Despite how warm it has been ALL week, it is freezing today! And of course, on the cold day of the week, I had to wake up early to help set up for a 5k for Engineers Without Borders. We had a pretty good turn-out, though, and we had some speedy runners out there!
So it's Saturday, which means Saturday Song List Edition! These songs are a bit random, but again...not meant to be my three favorites...just three songs that deserve recognition. So here it goes:
1) I Wish You Would-Taylor Swift
Yes, my friends, I am very much a Swiftie. This song is off the new 1989 album, and as much as I want to say it's my favorite one on the album, my favorites switch on any given day, so don't hold me to it.
I love this song mainly because, you see, I have this nostalgic attachment to the song that includes me acting out the plot...in interpretive dance. I also love the fact that she mentions 2 AM throughout the song, repeatedly, mainly because I'm usually always awake at 2 AM. It's a pretty upbeat song that makes me want to hop in my car and go driving late, late at night just to see the stars in all my mirrors and the moonlight on the blacktop.
If you haven't heard this song, or any of 1989, you should probably listen to it, because it's fairly great.
2) Budapest-George Ezra
Alright, this song was shown to me by my best friend, Alyssa, the one whose blog I mentioned on Thursday's post. I think she heard it on the radio first, but she sent me the link, and I can't. Stop. Listening to it. And the video is interesting as well.
It is a very mellow song, but it makes me feel happy inside every time I listen. And the fact that it mentions Budapest makes me like in even more, just because. I had never heard of George Ezra before, and I haven't really heard much else besides Budapest, but he did very well on this song and I hope to find more of his music to be just as good.
3) Glad You Came-The Wanted
Okay, doubtless you've heard this song. But in general, The Wanted is pretty amazing, and I chose this song because I think it was the first one I heard by them. It makes me want to jump up and dance, no matter where I am, whether it's in our school's cafeteria or I'm on the track in the gym. I love it; it's so bumpin'. If you want to be in a good mood, look this one up and just jam out. I mean, that's what I'm doing.
So there are my three songs for the day. Maybe you've heard them, maybe you haven't. But if you're looking for something to listen to, or just want to change up your current playlist, I suggest giving these a shot. Who knows, maybe you will listen to these, whether for the first time, or maybe the second, decide they are your absolute FAVORITES and listen to them on repeat...until you hate them. And then you will blame me for ruining three perfectly good songs. And then you may boycott my blog. And then one day, way in the future, you will stumble across this blog page and think, "Hmm....maybe I will listen to those songs again", and then the nostalgia will be REAL.
Anyway, I can't believe it's almost a WEEK until Easter, this semester has flown by. And after Easter, finals are right around the corner! So have a fabulous Saturday, listen to some tunes, and stand tall, you Button-Down Pine Trees!
Despite how warm it has been ALL week, it is freezing today! And of course, on the cold day of the week, I had to wake up early to help set up for a 5k for Engineers Without Borders. We had a pretty good turn-out, though, and we had some speedy runners out there!
So it's Saturday, which means Saturday Song List Edition! These songs are a bit random, but again...not meant to be my three favorites...just three songs that deserve recognition. So here it goes:
1) I Wish You Would-Taylor Swift
Yes, my friends, I am very much a Swiftie. This song is off the new 1989 album, and as much as I want to say it's my favorite one on the album, my favorites switch on any given day, so don't hold me to it.
I love this song mainly because, you see, I have this nostalgic attachment to the song that includes me acting out the plot...in interpretive dance. I also love the fact that she mentions 2 AM throughout the song, repeatedly, mainly because I'm usually always awake at 2 AM. It's a pretty upbeat song that makes me want to hop in my car and go driving late, late at night just to see the stars in all my mirrors and the moonlight on the blacktop.
If you haven't heard this song, or any of 1989, you should probably listen to it, because it's fairly great.
2) Budapest-George Ezra
Alright, this song was shown to me by my best friend, Alyssa, the one whose blog I mentioned on Thursday's post. I think she heard it on the radio first, but she sent me the link, and I can't. Stop. Listening to it. And the video is interesting as well.
It is a very mellow song, but it makes me feel happy inside every time I listen. And the fact that it mentions Budapest makes me like in even more, just because. I had never heard of George Ezra before, and I haven't really heard much else besides Budapest, but he did very well on this song and I hope to find more of his music to be just as good.
3) Glad You Came-The Wanted
Okay, doubtless you've heard this song. But in general, The Wanted is pretty amazing, and I chose this song because I think it was the first one I heard by them. It makes me want to jump up and dance, no matter where I am, whether it's in our school's cafeteria or I'm on the track in the gym. I love it; it's so bumpin'. If you want to be in a good mood, look this one up and just jam out. I mean, that's what I'm doing.
So there are my three songs for the day. Maybe you've heard them, maybe you haven't. But if you're looking for something to listen to, or just want to change up your current playlist, I suggest giving these a shot. Who knows, maybe you will listen to these, whether for the first time, or maybe the second, decide they are your absolute FAVORITES and listen to them on repeat...until you hate them. And then you will blame me for ruining three perfectly good songs. And then you may boycott my blog. And then one day, way in the future, you will stumble across this blog page and think, "Hmm....maybe I will listen to those songs again", and then the nostalgia will be REAL.
Anyway, I can't believe it's almost a WEEK until Easter, this semester has flown by. And after Easter, finals are right around the corner! So have a fabulous Saturday, listen to some tunes, and stand tall, you Button-Down Pine Trees!
Friday, March 27, 2015
Caramelized Cherry Blossoms
How goes it!?
It is startlingly cold here today, as compared to earlier in the week, which is mildly depressing. But it's supposed to warm up again in twenty-four hours, so I'm not too worried.
Yesterday, two extremely excellent things happened. Well, three actually. All three of these things managed to keep a smile on my face for the entire day, despite the tremendously long to-do lists that are, yes, still there.
Yesterday, on the loveliest of Thursday, I:
A) had the chance to speak with my Honors adviser. You see, if you know me, you may know this, you may not. But I have this not-so-secret desire to be an English major, along with the several other things I wish I could do (can I not do everything? Can I just stay in college an extra eight years to get two more degrees?) But, in light of the fact that I have already chosen a not-English major that I also enjoy, I decided a minor may be the route to go.
And boy, was my adviser encouraging. He listed the classes I could choose from for an English minor, from Craft of Poetry to Literature in the 1920's to a class solely devoted to Shakespeare, all of which sound LOVELY. He also vouched for the idea that a left-brained degree and a right-brained minor were an excellent combination, and that to succeed anywhere, one needed to know how to write.
He also mentioned a study abroad to...drum roll please....
OXFORD!!!!!!! (insert me screaming here) (okay, like screaming a lot and throwing poor Margo [my laptop] into the air and waving hands dramatically)
Yes, like England Oxford. Yes, like, my dream adventure Oxford.
I told him that if I went, I feared I would return an English major instead of just minoring in it; it could all be far too tempting. But either way, I think that's a chance I'd be willing to take. So applications are in the future for me.
B) I finally...after an whole week of craving these crazy things...ate not one, not two, but THREE cinnamon rolls. NO JUDGMENT. They were...to put it simply, AMAZING. And I do not regret a single one.
and finally, C)...I got to watch the Breakfast Club with one of my best friends at her sister's apartment. This movie is near the very top of the list for my favorite movies, and March 2015 is actually its thirty year anniversary. We were supposed to drive to Tuscaloosa to see said Breakfast Club IN THEATERS...ON THE BIG SCREEN...but I had a Physics test today and unfortunately, driving all night wouldn't be quite the best idea.
Somehow, I didn't feel quite as overwhelmed anymore. Yes, I still made it to bed particularly late writing essays and studying physics, and yes, there are still quite a few things I need to get done, but somehow, the stress doesn't seem quite as stressful, and the end goal doesn't seem quite so far away. Sometimes, you need a breather. A moment to look back, and think, what am I actually doing this for?
Yes, classes are hard. Heck, college is hard. But it's paving the way for something bigger in the broad scheme of my life, and for a lot of people's lives. And there are a lot of people there to help along the way.
So I hope you all have a breather day on this Friday afternoon, and that you find a few things to check off your to-do list. And I hope your day is filled with Good Moments and good vibes, all you caramelized cherry blossoms.
It is startlingly cold here today, as compared to earlier in the week, which is mildly depressing. But it's supposed to warm up again in twenty-four hours, so I'm not too worried.
Yesterday, two extremely excellent things happened. Well, three actually. All three of these things managed to keep a smile on my face for the entire day, despite the tremendously long to-do lists that are, yes, still there.
Yesterday, on the loveliest of Thursday, I:
A) had the chance to speak with my Honors adviser. You see, if you know me, you may know this, you may not. But I have this not-so-secret desire to be an English major, along with the several other things I wish I could do (can I not do everything? Can I just stay in college an extra eight years to get two more degrees?) But, in light of the fact that I have already chosen a not-English major that I also enjoy, I decided a minor may be the route to go.
And boy, was my adviser encouraging. He listed the classes I could choose from for an English minor, from Craft of Poetry to Literature in the 1920's to a class solely devoted to Shakespeare, all of which sound LOVELY. He also vouched for the idea that a left-brained degree and a right-brained minor were an excellent combination, and that to succeed anywhere, one needed to know how to write.
He also mentioned a study abroad to...drum roll please....
OXFORD!!!!!!! (insert me screaming here) (okay, like screaming a lot and throwing poor Margo [my laptop] into the air and waving hands dramatically)
Yes, like England Oxford. Yes, like, my dream adventure Oxford.
I told him that if I went, I feared I would return an English major instead of just minoring in it; it could all be far too tempting. But either way, I think that's a chance I'd be willing to take. So applications are in the future for me.
B) I finally...after an whole week of craving these crazy things...ate not one, not two, but THREE cinnamon rolls. NO JUDGMENT. They were...to put it simply, AMAZING. And I do not regret a single one.
and finally, C)...I got to watch the Breakfast Club with one of my best friends at her sister's apartment. This movie is near the very top of the list for my favorite movies, and March 2015 is actually its thirty year anniversary. We were supposed to drive to Tuscaloosa to see said Breakfast Club IN THEATERS...ON THE BIG SCREEN...but I had a Physics test today and unfortunately, driving all night wouldn't be quite the best idea.
Somehow, I didn't feel quite as overwhelmed anymore. Yes, I still made it to bed particularly late writing essays and studying physics, and yes, there are still quite a few things I need to get done, but somehow, the stress doesn't seem quite as stressful, and the end goal doesn't seem quite so far away. Sometimes, you need a breather. A moment to look back, and think, what am I actually doing this for?
Yes, classes are hard. Heck, college is hard. But it's paving the way for something bigger in the broad scheme of my life, and for a lot of people's lives. And there are a lot of people there to help along the way.
So I hope you all have a breather day on this Friday afternoon, and that you find a few things to check off your to-do list. And I hope your day is filled with Good Moments and good vibes, all you caramelized cherry blossoms.
Thursday, March 26, 2015
Nostalgic Salsa Bowls
Ah, March 26th. The perfect day to breathe fresh air.
What's happening?
So it's been an entire WEEK since I started my blog. Crazy, I know. What's even crazier is that I've actually written every day this week! Because let me tell you...it's hit that point in the semester. Final projects are suddenly lurking a lot closer than I imagined, tests and exams are becoming more and more prevalent in my schedule, homework is eating up every waking and (non)waking hour, and night time has ceased to exist. The sun never sets for my poor laptop, it just keeps on trekking.
You know, I wonder if laptops need some coffee every now and again. I mean, I'm not gonna be the one to throw the first line, here, and test it out...I kind of need this lil' machine to run a few more years. But at the same time, if I get to make the choice to drink my drug, why can't my laptop?!
And how is a laptop supposed to find the agency to make that decision if it has no voice in our political system!? That's it, I'm starting a revolution!
LET YOUR LAPTOP BE HEARD.
VOTE MARGO KEYS AS NEXT PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES.
(Margo is my lovely laptop's name. For the record, she likes to squeak and make funny noises when I hit any key in the general area of the 9's and 0's and F12's and whatnot)
Sorry, I suppose my social science class has started slipping into my everyday life. But I think that's what it's intended to do...Good to know a college education has influenced me to ponder the social rights and freedoms of laptops. Just kidding. I learn quite a lot in class, and I particularly enjoy going to my classes.
Yes, classes have been a little rough. Homework suddenly seems like a new lifestyle, instead of something to be done. That's okay, I suppose. Some nights, when I crawl into bed, all I can do is scroll through an endless list behind my eyelids: things that need to be done, things I didn't do, things that are due tomorrow...and it's STRESSFUL.
But I'm going to pull a Gatsby reference here, and also a little bit of inspiration from my best friend (see below), and I'm going to make a little analogy. When I roll over, late at night (or, I suppose, early morning), most of the dorm is pitch black, and I find myself getting lost in that blackness. Night can be a terrifying thing when your brain doesn't stop working...filled with stress and what-if's and maybe regrets over that last cup of coffee...but there is always that little green light on my laptop, telling me its charging. It's just a tiny pinpoint of green light, but when everything else is dark, it's as brilliant as a firework.
That green light, like it was for Gatsby, is kind of like my own little firework of hope. I guess you could relate it to a lot of things (that's the funny thing about symbols), but one important one is that in our darkest times, it makes it easier to see the light. And the strongest light, to me, is God. When I'm falling and drowning in endless to-do lists, there is one thing that keeps me floating on the water...and that is God, seeing that green light. He is Constant and He is eternal, and no matter how deep I am in sadness, He shines on, giving me direction and location. And that is a Gift.
So when stress is overwhelming you, and it feels impossible to take even a single step forward when everything is pushing back on you, remember that our God is for us, and He is stronger than whatever gets thrown at you. He Shines on even when everything else feels dark.
I hope you get something done on your to-do list today, but more importantly, I hope you have a GOOD day, my nostalgic salsa bowls. And I hope happiness comes your way.
ALSO, today is Thursday, which is the fourth day of the week (if you count Monday as the beginning), the negative first day of the week (if you count the first day as Friday), and the BEST day of the week because Thursday's are the days my friend Alyssa posts her blog! You can check it out here if you would like:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyyVENK39N8QzDk1O2qMR1Q
Peace out!
What's happening?
So it's been an entire WEEK since I started my blog. Crazy, I know. What's even crazier is that I've actually written every day this week! Because let me tell you...it's hit that point in the semester. Final projects are suddenly lurking a lot closer than I imagined, tests and exams are becoming more and more prevalent in my schedule, homework is eating up every waking and (non)waking hour, and night time has ceased to exist. The sun never sets for my poor laptop, it just keeps on trekking.
You know, I wonder if laptops need some coffee every now and again. I mean, I'm not gonna be the one to throw the first line, here, and test it out...I kind of need this lil' machine to run a few more years. But at the same time, if I get to make the choice to drink my drug, why can't my laptop?!
And how is a laptop supposed to find the agency to make that decision if it has no voice in our political system!? That's it, I'm starting a revolution!
LET YOUR LAPTOP BE HEARD.
VOTE MARGO KEYS AS NEXT PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES.
(Margo is my lovely laptop's name. For the record, she likes to squeak and make funny noises when I hit any key in the general area of the 9's and 0's and F12's and whatnot)
Sorry, I suppose my social science class has started slipping into my everyday life. But I think that's what it's intended to do...Good to know a college education has influenced me to ponder the social rights and freedoms of laptops. Just kidding. I learn quite a lot in class, and I particularly enjoy going to my classes.
Yes, classes have been a little rough. Homework suddenly seems like a new lifestyle, instead of something to be done. That's okay, I suppose. Some nights, when I crawl into bed, all I can do is scroll through an endless list behind my eyelids: things that need to be done, things I didn't do, things that are due tomorrow...and it's STRESSFUL.
But I'm going to pull a Gatsby reference here, and also a little bit of inspiration from my best friend (see below), and I'm going to make a little analogy. When I roll over, late at night (or, I suppose, early morning), most of the dorm is pitch black, and I find myself getting lost in that blackness. Night can be a terrifying thing when your brain doesn't stop working...filled with stress and what-if's and maybe regrets over that last cup of coffee...but there is always that little green light on my laptop, telling me its charging. It's just a tiny pinpoint of green light, but when everything else is dark, it's as brilliant as a firework.
That green light, like it was for Gatsby, is kind of like my own little firework of hope. I guess you could relate it to a lot of things (that's the funny thing about symbols), but one important one is that in our darkest times, it makes it easier to see the light. And the strongest light, to me, is God. When I'm falling and drowning in endless to-do lists, there is one thing that keeps me floating on the water...and that is God, seeing that green light. He is Constant and He is eternal, and no matter how deep I am in sadness, He shines on, giving me direction and location. And that is a Gift.
So when stress is overwhelming you, and it feels impossible to take even a single step forward when everything is pushing back on you, remember that our God is for us, and He is stronger than whatever gets thrown at you. He Shines on even when everything else feels dark.
I hope you get something done on your to-do list today, but more importantly, I hope you have a GOOD day, my nostalgic salsa bowls. And I hope happiness comes your way.
ALSO, today is Thursday, which is the fourth day of the week (if you count Monday as the beginning), the negative first day of the week (if you count the first day as Friday), and the BEST day of the week because Thursday's are the days my friend Alyssa posts her blog! You can check it out here if you would like:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyyVENK39N8QzDk1O2qMR1Q
Peace out!
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
Hyperbolic Streetlamps
Hey hey hay...find your horses!
I hope your day is going fabulously, and if you've just woken up (my, my, look at the time!) I hope it becomes fabulous. And if you're having a rough time, just remember you've got this. You are spectacularly striking and you have the ability to achieve whatever you are trying to achieve.
Anywho, welcome back. I bet you're wondering what today's post is going to be about, and frankly, so I am I. But I suppose today I want to talk about how loving someone or something does not always necessitate infinity. What I mean is, you can still love someone, even if they are not the same someone anymore, or have moved on. You can love what they were without continuing to be a part of what they are...does that make sense?
There is no sense in allowing hurt and pain and confusion to rule your actions, especially if it is caused by a single person. People are not, as God is, constant. The longer you are with someone, the more you find out about them. And sometimes, the more part isn't always easy to handle. In fact, it's usually not. And when that 'more' become detrimental to your mental, physical, or spiritual health, you need to learn when and how to move on.
This doesn't mean giving up on someone as soon as you see their weakness. That's when bonds should become stronger. It means, when someone reveals a part of themselves that doesn't support your weaker parts, and doesn't contribute to the wellness of your journey, it could be time to move on.
Moving on is hard; I understand that. I've had to do it several times. But in the end, it makes you stronger. It makes you realize that you are the only person who can control your happiness. And people are not, as God is, what we lean on when we're falling. He is the only Rock, the only one strong enough to hold all of our problems.
Now, don't get me wrong. We are to bear each other's burdens, to be invested in each other's lives. But we don't bear that weight alone; God does. And we can't 100% depend on any one person; we're all human. He is stronger than anyone here, and carries the weight of everyone who has ever lived, everyone who is going to live, and everyone who is living right now. If that's not something to put your faith in, then I don't know what is.
So remember, other people shouldn't be the determining factors in how you feel, or where you plan on going in life. God has that under control. It's awesome to remember that He is there, forever and ever, with a plan for ME. And you. And everyone. And when it is His will that we move on, then we are able to do just that: move on to a path that brings Him more glory and honor.
Stay shiny, my hyperbolic streetlamps, and stay strong.
I hope your day is going fabulously, and if you've just woken up (my, my, look at the time!) I hope it becomes fabulous. And if you're having a rough time, just remember you've got this. You are spectacularly striking and you have the ability to achieve whatever you are trying to achieve.
Anywho, welcome back. I bet you're wondering what today's post is going to be about, and frankly, so I am I. But I suppose today I want to talk about how loving someone or something does not always necessitate infinity. What I mean is, you can still love someone, even if they are not the same someone anymore, or have moved on. You can love what they were without continuing to be a part of what they are...does that make sense?
There is no sense in allowing hurt and pain and confusion to rule your actions, especially if it is caused by a single person. People are not, as God is, constant. The longer you are with someone, the more you find out about them. And sometimes, the more part isn't always easy to handle. In fact, it's usually not. And when that 'more' become detrimental to your mental, physical, or spiritual health, you need to learn when and how to move on.
This doesn't mean giving up on someone as soon as you see their weakness. That's when bonds should become stronger. It means, when someone reveals a part of themselves that doesn't support your weaker parts, and doesn't contribute to the wellness of your journey, it could be time to move on.
Moving on is hard; I understand that. I've had to do it several times. But in the end, it makes you stronger. It makes you realize that you are the only person who can control your happiness. And people are not, as God is, what we lean on when we're falling. He is the only Rock, the only one strong enough to hold all of our problems.
Now, don't get me wrong. We are to bear each other's burdens, to be invested in each other's lives. But we don't bear that weight alone; God does. And we can't 100% depend on any one person; we're all human. He is stronger than anyone here, and carries the weight of everyone who has ever lived, everyone who is going to live, and everyone who is living right now. If that's not something to put your faith in, then I don't know what is.
So remember, other people shouldn't be the determining factors in how you feel, or where you plan on going in life. God has that under control. It's awesome to remember that He is there, forever and ever, with a plan for ME. And you. And everyone. And when it is His will that we move on, then we are able to do just that: move on to a path that brings Him more glory and honor.
Stay shiny, my hyperbolic streetlamps, and stay strong.
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
Glossy Train Tracks
WOOP, there it is. Looks like you've taken the time to type in my https:// address, hop in your mobile car, and zoom through infinite 0's and 1's to find my blog. I'm impressed by your adventuring skills. You've earned a gold star for the day.
If you're reading these words, it means you're important to me. No, really. Anyone who takes the time to sit down and read a little bit from me, whether I know it or not, literally means the world to me. Even if it's just one person (here's to you, my Tuna fish).
Sentimental mumbo (true) jumbo over. I'm late night-blogging-though it probably isn't going to be late at night when this is posted-so I'm not quite sure what will make it onto the page tonight. But whatever does, for your sake and mine, I hope it makes sense.
Today, I was reminded that the present is what you make it. And what you do is by NO means determined by what other people think of what you do. When we conform to what we think other people want from us, we lose something integral to ourselves: our identity. That may seem redundant, but if you think about it, what is more important in being yourself than really being yourself?
We shouldn't worry what outsiders think we are doing, and we shouldn't worry about how our actions and choices are perceived. Everyone sees the world through their own lens, under their own hanging-police-station lamp, from their own vantage point in the tallest tree in their mind's eye. If everyone sees it different, how are we supposed to meet everyone's expectations???
(Psst, I have the answer....we don't). We don't meet people's expectations. At least, I know I don't. We are always going to let someone down, at some point in our lives. But failure doesn't change who we are, and it certainly doesn't take away our identity. It reinforces it, actually, as long as we take the initiative to get back up once we fall.
Investing in what you love, and what you enjoy, is always worth it. Never consider it a loss if you spend time doing what you are passionate about, especially just because someone else calls it wasted time. If it means something to you, something more than momentary distraction, it must be worth it. It is a part of you, and it's a part you don't want to lose.
So if you love writing, go write. If you love doing integral calculus, you go integrate. If you love running, go kill it on the road. If there is someone you truly love and care about, go spend some time with them. If you like internet stalking,
...Don't do that. Go outside or something.
But really, though. I don't know if this makes any sense, but, if your day isn't going that great, or if you feel down, just remember: I'm here, behind this computer screen, sincerely hoping and praying that your day gets better, and you do something that you love today.
I wish you happiness, you glossy train tracks, all of you.
If you're reading these words, it means you're important to me. No, really. Anyone who takes the time to sit down and read a little bit from me, whether I know it or not, literally means the world to me. Even if it's just one person (here's to you, my Tuna fish).
Sentimental mumbo (true) jumbo over. I'm late night-blogging-though it probably isn't going to be late at night when this is posted-so I'm not quite sure what will make it onto the page tonight. But whatever does, for your sake and mine, I hope it makes sense.
Today, I was reminded that the present is what you make it. And what you do is by NO means determined by what other people think of what you do. When we conform to what we think other people want from us, we lose something integral to ourselves: our identity. That may seem redundant, but if you think about it, what is more important in being yourself than really being yourself?
We shouldn't worry what outsiders think we are doing, and we shouldn't worry about how our actions and choices are perceived. Everyone sees the world through their own lens, under their own hanging-police-station lamp, from their own vantage point in the tallest tree in their mind's eye. If everyone sees it different, how are we supposed to meet everyone's expectations???
(Psst, I have the answer....we don't). We don't meet people's expectations. At least, I know I don't. We are always going to let someone down, at some point in our lives. But failure doesn't change who we are, and it certainly doesn't take away our identity. It reinforces it, actually, as long as we take the initiative to get back up once we fall.
Investing in what you love, and what you enjoy, is always worth it. Never consider it a loss if you spend time doing what you are passionate about, especially just because someone else calls it wasted time. If it means something to you, something more than momentary distraction, it must be worth it. It is a part of you, and it's a part you don't want to lose.
So if you love writing, go write. If you love doing integral calculus, you go integrate. If you love running, go kill it on the road. If there is someone you truly love and care about, go spend some time with them. If you like internet stalking,
...Don't do that. Go outside or something.
But really, though. I don't know if this makes any sense, but, if your day isn't going that great, or if you feel down, just remember: I'm here, behind this computer screen, sincerely hoping and praying that your day gets better, and you do something that you love today.
I wish you happiness, you glossy train tracks, all of you.
Monday, March 23, 2015
Acrylic Camera Flash
Salve, internet friends. Not to be confused with salve, but rather (sal-WAY). As in Latin for:
HEY HOMIES!
Actually, I'm pretty sure ancient Romans didn't refer to one another as homies...but they should have. Everyone should.
Historical context and confusion aside, let's step back into 2015. Which, as much as we may claim otherwise, could look a lot like ancient Rome if we tried hard enough.
Today, I want to talk about math for a little bit, mainly because it's gorgeous. I mean, I'm not kidding right now. When I see a white board filled top to bottom with calculus, I'm just happy. Now I know the thought of that may make some of you physically ill, or some of you may be slowly moving your cursor up to that red box in the corner in fear. But before you do, hear me out!
Math is, okay? No, not "Math is okay". Because it's more than okay. It IS. Math is there, in everything, and we are slowly, across the span of centuries and to this day, still decoding what is math. Like archaeologists digging up lost cities, mathematicians are brushing away the dust from numerical mysteries. It's like unwinding a tightly coiled string and seeing how far it stretches...(the answer is infinitely far).
Numbers and theories fit together, hand in hand, almost like a puzzle. Or rather, exactly like a puzzle. And the fact that no matter what is uncovered, it all still fits, is spectacular in its own way. It's like digging up rocks all over the globe, gathering them together, and finding out that they stack perfectly to form an exact replica of Michelangelo's David or something. It all just fits. That's what fascinates me about numbers and theories, and honestly, that's somewhere I can look and immediately see the awesome power and omnipotence of God.
He created everything with a plan in mind, and He created everything to fit together perfectly...everything. He set the universe in order, down the minute details of even integral calculus. When I see numbers and theories interact, it's beautiful. Because He thought Calculus into existence long before we sat out to discover it and uncover it's depth and detail.
It's amazing what you can find when you apply math. If you treat Physics like applied Math, then I suppose Math could be applied Philosophy. Sometimes it takes a crazy question and a crazy method to find a practical answer. Sometimes, even good questions have answers indescribable in good terms. And sometimes, you can find an answer that you weren't even looking for by first solving a simpler problem.
I don't know, maybe I'm rambling. And maybe I haven't made my point. But I have chem lab to get to, which is not quite as exciting as Calculus (in my opinion), so this is the end of today's post. But maybe, just maybe, you can sort of mildly partially (PARTIAL FRACTIONS...sorry) possibly see just a little bit why I enjoy math so much.
Anyway, shine on, Acrylic Camera Flashes, and have a fantastic day.
HEY HOMIES!
Actually, I'm pretty sure ancient Romans didn't refer to one another as homies...but they should have. Everyone should.
Historical context and confusion aside, let's step back into 2015. Which, as much as we may claim otherwise, could look a lot like ancient Rome if we tried hard enough.
Today, I want to talk about math for a little bit, mainly because it's gorgeous. I mean, I'm not kidding right now. When I see a white board filled top to bottom with calculus, I'm just happy. Now I know the thought of that may make some of you physically ill, or some of you may be slowly moving your cursor up to that red box in the corner in fear. But before you do, hear me out!
Math is, okay? No, not "Math is okay". Because it's more than okay. It IS. Math is there, in everything, and we are slowly, across the span of centuries and to this day, still decoding what is math. Like archaeologists digging up lost cities, mathematicians are brushing away the dust from numerical mysteries. It's like unwinding a tightly coiled string and seeing how far it stretches...(the answer is infinitely far).
Numbers and theories fit together, hand in hand, almost like a puzzle. Or rather, exactly like a puzzle. And the fact that no matter what is uncovered, it all still fits, is spectacular in its own way. It's like digging up rocks all over the globe, gathering them together, and finding out that they stack perfectly to form an exact replica of Michelangelo's David or something. It all just fits. That's what fascinates me about numbers and theories, and honestly, that's somewhere I can look and immediately see the awesome power and omnipotence of God.
He created everything with a plan in mind, and He created everything to fit together perfectly...everything. He set the universe in order, down the minute details of even integral calculus. When I see numbers and theories interact, it's beautiful. Because He thought Calculus into existence long before we sat out to discover it and uncover it's depth and detail.
It's amazing what you can find when you apply math. If you treat Physics like applied Math, then I suppose Math could be applied Philosophy. Sometimes it takes a crazy question and a crazy method to find a practical answer. Sometimes, even good questions have answers indescribable in good terms. And sometimes, you can find an answer that you weren't even looking for by first solving a simpler problem.
I don't know, maybe I'm rambling. And maybe I haven't made my point. But I have chem lab to get to, which is not quite as exciting as Calculus (in my opinion), so this is the end of today's post. But maybe, just maybe, you can sort of mildly partially (PARTIAL FRACTIONS...sorry) possibly see just a little bit why I enjoy math so much.
Anyway, shine on, Acrylic Camera Flashes, and have a fantastic day.
Sunday, March 22, 2015
Pineapple Piñatas
Hello, and welcome back! If you're reading this, it means I must be doing something right (or horrendously wrong and you just want to see the catastrophe of another day's post). Either way works for me because, either way, you're back!
So today, I'm stuck in my dorm room doing a ridiculous amount of homework, And, I'm debating whether it's worth it to actually leave the room at any point in time today...(probably not). And, even as I type, I'm putting off doing homework. So yeah, take that! I'm putting off homework for you! *ahem*
This weekend has been mildly exciting, and when I say mildly, it's because I've eaten quite a bit of mild salsa, which is, in fact, super exciting. Mexican restaurants are actually probably a mild obsession of mine, but I am up for El Mezcal or Casa Mexicana or whatever restaurant is around you pretty much any day of the week, any time of the day, whether I've been there in the last few days or not. (Pass the chips, please)
WARNING CAUTION WARNING
Taco Bell does NOT count in that list. That is a no for me.
WARNING OVER..RESUME READING POSITION
But, back to my weekend, my best friend came and visited me this weekend at school, and, as you have no doubt guessed, we went out for Mexican food. And then I proceeded to take her to Kroger and buy salsa and chips to keep in my dorm...Don't actually know why I've never done that before.
ANYwho. Salsa and scheming aside, it's been a pretty stressful week with all the projects and quizzes and papers due, in addition to meetings and interviews and whatnot. And the following week is going to be equally stressful. But having someone there-someone who means the world to you-makes it all a little bit easier to take. One thing at a time, one breath at a time. And something my friend continually reminds me:
To succeed in ANYTHING in the world--whether that is becoming a billion-dollar stale piece of bread, or a book-writing barista in New York--you have to stay positive. Otherwise, what's the point? Easier said than done, I know. But, speaking from experience, positivity is a heck of a lot better than dwelling on the past, or on what should have happened, or stressing about what is going to happen.
So my advice today (this goes out to you, yes YOU specifically) is to stay positive, even when it's hard. Be a proton. And keep up the good work, you tangy pineapple piñatas.
So today, I'm stuck in my dorm room doing a ridiculous amount of homework, And, I'm debating whether it's worth it to actually leave the room at any point in time today...(probably not). And, even as I type, I'm putting off doing homework. So yeah, take that! I'm putting off homework for you! *ahem*
This weekend has been mildly exciting, and when I say mildly, it's because I've eaten quite a bit of mild salsa, which is, in fact, super exciting. Mexican restaurants are actually probably a mild obsession of mine, but I am up for El Mezcal or Casa Mexicana or whatever restaurant is around you pretty much any day of the week, any time of the day, whether I've been there in the last few days or not. (Pass the chips, please)
WARNING CAUTION WARNING
Taco Bell does NOT count in that list. That is a no for me.
WARNING OVER..RESUME READING POSITION
But, back to my weekend, my best friend came and visited me this weekend at school, and, as you have no doubt guessed, we went out for Mexican food. And then I proceeded to take her to Kroger and buy salsa and chips to keep in my dorm...Don't actually know why I've never done that before.
ANYwho. Salsa and scheming aside, it's been a pretty stressful week with all the projects and quizzes and papers due, in addition to meetings and interviews and whatnot. And the following week is going to be equally stressful. But having someone there-someone who means the world to you-makes it all a little bit easier to take. One thing at a time, one breath at a time. And something my friend continually reminds me:
To succeed in ANYTHING in the world--whether that is becoming a billion-dollar stale piece of bread, or a book-writing barista in New York--you have to stay positive. Otherwise, what's the point? Easier said than done, I know. But, speaking from experience, positivity is a heck of a lot better than dwelling on the past, or on what should have happened, or stressing about what is going to happen.
So my advice today (this goes out to you, yes YOU specifically) is to stay positive, even when it's hard. Be a proton. And keep up the good work, you tangy pineapple piñatas.
Saturday, March 21, 2015
Local Kiwis {Saturday Song List Edition}
What's up?! We're three for three, my homies! Making progress, making progress.
So today, I had a post typed out. Or halfway typed out. But it wasn't exactly interesting (not that this will be super exciting), but I decided it wasn't really good enough to finish, and if it was on the internet, whoever owns this place (I'm betting on that end piece of the bread) would probably find it pretty stale and personally request that I remove it. And if I waited that long, I wouldn't have time to make a new one and then I wouldn't have a continuous strain of posts and I wouldn't meet my goal and....
Anyway, I've decided that because it's Saturday, I might as well make a Saturday Song List edition. No, these probably aren't the BEST. THREE. songs on the planet, and no, I can also say these aren't my top three songs, but it's three songs I think need to be shared with this chunk of the internet today.
So here it goes:
1. FAIRLY LOCAL BY TWENTY ONE PILOTS
...YES, IF YOU READ THAT IN A SHOUTING VOICE, IT IS..BECAUSE I AM SHOUTING.
This song was released a few days ago, and let me tell you...it's amazing. Twenty One Pilots is a secret (or not-so-secret) obsession of mine, Tyler and Josh being two of my personal heroes. If you haven't heard of them, I would suggest you just go buy all their music...like now. Or you know, let this opportunity pass you by and miss out on possibly the greatest music you've ever listened to in your life. But hey, your choice.
2. Escape (the Pina Colada Song) Alright, doubtless you've heard this one. I feel like everyone has, whether intentionally or in passing. But, here's a few words on this song: my favorite part in the whole thing is when he's sitting in the bar, and the woman comes in. He recognizes her, turns and says-and I quote-"Ah...it's you". Literally the best part. It's like two and half minutes into the song, but you have to listen to the whole thing, let the story get set up. But that one line...kills me. I don't know why I love it. I just do. So go...go pretend you're underneath a palm tree and jam out.
3. Jupiter, by Sleeping At Last. Actually, Sleeping at Last has a whole album that is pretty much named after the solar system. And the whole thing is sort of perfect, There are few vocal parts, but the music is beautiful, and is definitely worth leaving your headphones in as you fall asleep, even if it's uncomfortable and you wake up with a tangled mess. But anyway, check it out. Pretend you're floating through space, or something of that nature. It's pretty great.
So there are three. It's hard to choose just three, but I think Saturday Song List may become a thing for this place. But I can't guarantee that Twenty One Pilots won't make an appearance every week. Because they very well could. But that's okay.
Anyway, I hope your Saturday's have been wonderfully relaxing and filled with coffee and tea and all that good stuff, and I hope Sunday is just as good.
Fly high, my local kiwis, and peace out.
So today, I had a post typed out. Or halfway typed out. But it wasn't exactly interesting (not that this will be super exciting), but I decided it wasn't really good enough to finish, and if it was on the internet, whoever owns this place (I'm betting on that end piece of the bread) would probably find it pretty stale and personally request that I remove it. And if I waited that long, I wouldn't have time to make a new one and then I wouldn't have a continuous strain of posts and I wouldn't meet my goal and....
Anyway, I've decided that because it's Saturday, I might as well make a Saturday Song List edition. No, these probably aren't the BEST. THREE. songs on the planet, and no, I can also say these aren't my top three songs, but it's three songs I think need to be shared with this chunk of the internet today.
So here it goes:
1. FAIRLY LOCAL BY TWENTY ONE PILOTS
...YES, IF YOU READ THAT IN A SHOUTING VOICE, IT IS..BECAUSE I AM SHOUTING.
This song was released a few days ago, and let me tell you...it's amazing. Twenty One Pilots is a secret (or not-so-secret) obsession of mine, Tyler and Josh being two of my personal heroes. If you haven't heard of them, I would suggest you just go buy all their music...like now. Or you know, let this opportunity pass you by and miss out on possibly the greatest music you've ever listened to in your life. But hey, your choice.
2. Escape (the Pina Colada Song) Alright, doubtless you've heard this one. I feel like everyone has, whether intentionally or in passing. But, here's a few words on this song: my favorite part in the whole thing is when he's sitting in the bar, and the woman comes in. He recognizes her, turns and says-and I quote-"Ah...it's you". Literally the best part. It's like two and half minutes into the song, but you have to listen to the whole thing, let the story get set up. But that one line...kills me. I don't know why I love it. I just do. So go...go pretend you're underneath a palm tree and jam out.
3. Jupiter, by Sleeping At Last. Actually, Sleeping at Last has a whole album that is pretty much named after the solar system. And the whole thing is sort of perfect, There are few vocal parts, but the music is beautiful, and is definitely worth leaving your headphones in as you fall asleep, even if it's uncomfortable and you wake up with a tangled mess. But anyway, check it out. Pretend you're floating through space, or something of that nature. It's pretty great.
So there are three. It's hard to choose just three, but I think Saturday Song List may become a thing for this place. But I can't guarantee that Twenty One Pilots won't make an appearance every week. Because they very well could. But that's okay.
Anyway, I hope your Saturday's have been wonderfully relaxing and filled with coffee and tea and all that good stuff, and I hope Sunday is just as good.
Fly high, my local kiwis, and peace out.
Friday, March 20, 2015
Elevator Popcorn
Hello again, friends. Looking fresh today.
So I guess I've passed the intro post, and now I have to decide when I want to blog and what I actually want my blog to be about. But, I am making a promise, or at least a goal for myself:
I want to post every day.
Or write everyday, that is. It's something I try to do already, but this gives we a reason to, a necessary thing. And I feel like that is something we need in every aspect of our lives: accountability. Accountability in writing everyday. Accountability in going to class everyday.
Accountability in being positive. In focusing on the present, not the past. Focusing on what is here, on what I have, and what is Good. And God is Good.
Accountability is important to me. And it's important that I find people to hold me to what I need to accomplish.
In my 10 AM Calculus class, there is this guy that sits next to me and walks to his next class with me. And every day we have class, he proceeds to tell me about what he has accomplished for God on that day. And regardless of what day it is, whether we've had an exam or a terribly confusing problem, whether the sun is shining or it's pouring buckets, he always has a smile on his face and an amazing, uplifting story about the opportunities he has seized to share the gospel. And every single day, he asks me what I am thankful for.
At first the question psyched me out. What am I thankful for? Some days I honestly would be thankful for the day just to end. But when you're staring at a smile, it's hard to think like that. And it makes me think...I am so thankful for so many things. So many people. And so, so many opportunities.
God made me with a plan in mind, and though it's hard for me to comprehend the fact that there is an endpoint someday, it makes me remember just how thankful I am to live for that plan. Because no matter what, He's got this. No matter how badly I fail, He'll pick me right back up.
Now when the question comes, I'm expecting it. And I live my mornings thinking of all the things I am thankful for, so I can answer his question with a smile, too.
Some days I am thankful for the sunshine. Some days, I'm thankful for the good people that have stepped into my life since college started. Some days, it's just the fact that I am breathing in the air God made for me.
I'm hoping this blog is one of those opportunities, and I'm hoping I make good use of it.
So peace out, my Popcorn's.
Thursday, March 19, 2015
Freestyle Cinnamon Rolls
I'll go ahead and state the obvious, just to break the ice. You look great today. Really, I mean it.
Second obvious statement of the day: this is my first blog post. No, not ever, unfortunately. I'm one of those people that has sat down to blog at least fourteen times, but they've been poetry blogs. This is the first real blog about me, I suppose.
Third obvious statement: I bet you want a cinnamon roll now. Well, if you don't, I do. And if you do, that makes two of us. Because I don't have any right now. But they sound pretty good.
But this post has nothing to do with cinnamon rolls. Or free-style rappers. It's actually just a little bit of an introduction.
My name is Jenna, and I'm in the spring semester of my freshman year of college. Let me say, college is an interesting place, and it's an interesting state of mind. It's nothing like I expected it to be, but so far, it's pretty good. It's a place where coffee is an expectation at all hours of the day-and night-, food is a standard currency, sleep is relatively nonexistent, and a good time is always around the corner.
But it's not always rainbow-flavored coffee around here. I've had my fair share of stressful nights...weeks...teary-eyed frustrations, and mind manipulations. It's tough when you are suddenly in control of your everything.
This blog will just be a little piece of me, I suppose. I had a very dear friend (who doubtless there will be many posts about in the future) write a poem for me today, a poem about me actually. She defined me as a puzzle, but not all my pieces were put together. And that's exactly how I feel.
I am a puzzle. I'm still trying to figure out how I fit together, and what I'm going to look like when I'm done. Some nights, I get so frustrated and can't seem to place a single piece. Some nights everything just clicks and I am just a little bit more whole. But I feel like college, and life in general, is just putting together your puzzle, even when you're jamming together pieces you think fit but really don't.
And a puzzle can't really put itself together. I've got a lot of people helping me finish this puzzle, a lot of important people. But I've got one really important, really awesome Puzzler working on me...and that is God. He is infinitely bigger than anything here, and He knows exactly what my puzzle looks like. So as life moves on, He's guiding every move that's made on this puzzle. And man, oh man...God is Good, all the time.
So here's hoping this blog can be a piece of my puzzle.
Thanks for reading, and stay lovely, you Freestyle Cinnamon Rolls.
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