friends – ThirtySomething Shenanigans

April 20, 2020April 21, 2020

Every Day Is A Fresh Start…

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Hello, it’s me…

Remember me? It’s been over a year since I last published a blog post on here, and who knows since the last time I even visited my blog to make sure it wasn’t hacked or something and there weren’t embarrassing photos of me circulating on the internet.

Oh wait, that’s all of my pics. Ha. Kidding.

Well, so, where the hell do I even begin? The last blog post I talked about how I had handled the anniversary of my breakup with my previous boyfriend and how life was going at my latest job, Jackson National.

Flash forward to 2020… and here we are in the middle of a pandemic. The me a year ago could have never saw this pandemic. No one could have. But, back to that in a minute.

Let me first catch everyone up on what else happened in 2019 prior to shit hitting the fan in 2020. So, life happened as it was supposed to, I guess. Nothing too exciting that I at this very moment can think of. Part of it is, now that we are all on quarantine and I am working from home, all of the days are turning into one big blur. So, pardon me for not remembering all of 2019 now, lol, and for any spelling/grammar errors that may appear in this post. I’ll write now, edit later. Bear with me, too, I am writing this post being as basic can be with a glass of wine to the of my laptop.

Ah, yes, laptop. Why of course, yes, I do have a beautiful, brand spankin’ new desktop in my office in my HOME that I could certainly being utilizing, but, seeing as I spend 37.5 hours, sometimes more already outside of work, in that room and on that desktop, I figured I would set up shop in my kitchen at table on my old laptop, which is really only good now for Zooming with friends.

Anyway, 2019 highlights included… me turning 29, woo, last year of my 20s; the birth of my latest niece, Minah; celebration of my sister and cousin’s 45th birthdays up north, which, honestly, was probably the highlight of my year because it was THAT fun; holidays, etc… the usual. And obviously, totes more, and if I forgot anything else spectacular, I do apologize.

And… a new relationship bloomed! Whoa. Huh. What. Who? Me? Who would have thought? Yes. The start of what would become official Jan. 4, 2020. 😉 Yes, I decided to quit feeling sorry for myself and realize that what my family and friends have told me all along is that a) I do deserve someone great and will find said person and b) that I will find that person when the time is right.

Well, it turns out, I had found him back in 2016, when I started my job at The Argus-Press. Sports editor. Sat right across from him. But, we didn’t become official until much later. Too long of a story that I am sure my boyfriend does not care to have me re-hash on social media.

Anyway, let me tell you, my heart has been on a whole other level since such a great human being really made me realize that good guys do exist out there and that I am worthy of one. And man, without even trying or wanting to, he turned me into a big sap. A big puddle of mush that always gushes about him any chance I can get.

But hear me out, to each their own. For y’all that have followed me on this blog for awhile know that most of my blog posts have been about the demise of my previous relationship and the aftermath of it. It took me awhile, a long while, to get over him.

Looking back now, I feel silly I let myself feel so down about how and why things ended, but, everything happens for a reason for me, it ultimately did help that I let myself feel the grief, if you will, of saying goodbye to a relationship on someone I fell in love with once long ago.

Of course, now slightly older and feeling more wise, I to this day do not regret my past relationships. Did I contribute to us breaking up? Certainly. Honestly, I felt a lot of insecurity, some of which I still unfortunately feel today, that made me feel like I wasn’t worthy of the guy I was dating — even though, in hindsight, our relationship was often tumultuous and probably wasn’t the best slate for basing my relationships on moving forward.

But, again, not bashing my past relationship(s). I thank those men for teaching me that he wasn’t the one. And that I wasn’t the one for them. Was I hurt/devastated/angry/sad when we broke up? Oh, yes. But, as time has gone on, I’ve learned it takes much more effort to be mad and dislike or even hate someone than it does to simply forgive them and move on. So eventually, I did.

I forgave him. I forgave myself for acting the way I did, but also forgave myself for allowing myself to think that that’s who was meant for me.

Flash forward to this relationship… It’s going to sound so cliche, but, I really feel like the happiest girl in the world. And, here I am turning into a sap, yet again — or maybe it’s the red wine I’m finally feeling — haha — but, I do sometimes feel like it’s a dream because, how on Earth could I snag a man as wonderful as him?

I won’t bore you with the mushy details of why I think my boyfriend is all of that and a bag of chips, although, if you really want to know — go check out my Instagram — that’s where I post my occasional “boyfriend brags,” lol. Sorry, Ryan!

Moving along…

Back in November 2019 was my one year anniversary at Jackson and coming up in just a few weeks on May 4, 2020, (oh, May the Fourth be with me! LOL) will be my year and a half anniversary. It truly amazes me how fast my time has flown by at Jackson. I guess it’s true, time flies when you’re having fun. I really have enjoyed my time working at Jackson and becoming good friends with my coworkers. I am happy to be back working and living in my hometown, which brings me to latest update from 2020…

As of January 31, 2020, I became a first time homeowner. Can you believe it? Yes! I looked at houses for couple of months, not too many, but, then I finally found the one meant for me. And now, more so than ever, am I relieved my realtor was able to make magic happen and have me close when I did because otherwise, my house hunt would have been put on hold for who knows how long due to the current pandemic.

It was an interesting experience. I looked on Zillow a lot for houses within my price range and it seemed as soon as I found one I liked and texted my realtor that we were interested, the next day it was sold. It was crazy. But, at least I found one and closed one day and literally moved the next day. I still have long-term projects to work on — the main one being painting, with the help of my dad and grandpa, etc. when the stay at home order and lifted and things can return to normal — or, our new normal. My dad talked about remodeling my kitchen, but, my mom and I don’t hate it nor feel it needs it so, we’ll see if that is actually something that happens. I am also trying to find a new couch to buy for my living room that won’t cost me a freakin’ arm or a leg, as well as eventually a new coffee table and entertainment center for living room. Other items I would like longer down the road are to buy a day bed for my guest room and to finish the now partially-finished basement. I’m sure between now and who knows I’ll find other, smaller, but still important things I want to accomplish, but, truth be told, I’ve been successful in making my house feel like my home as much as I could so far.

Of course, being a homeowner comes with its own set of challenges, which, in all of my almost 30 years I haven’t had to deal with personally, lol. Like: mowing my lawn; shoveling snow in my driveway and sidewalk — woof; changing my address on my license; updating all of my mailing/billing addresses for banking info/credit card; myriad other things. It’s been a learning curve. And thankfully, I guess thankfully, the weather here has been so back and forth that I haven’t had to worry too much about mowing my lawn but, now we’re at a point where, well, I need to get myself a lawnmower ASAP. Baby steps. Also, if you know of any local lawn care places that can hook me up once the stay at home order is lifted, let your girl know. 😉

Well, I guess that’s all for now. Outside of work I’ve been watching TV, Netflix; Zooming with friends and family; drinking wine; napping; coloring; keeping my therapy appointments via telehealth, which has been detrimental to making sure I don’t lose my mind by being cooped up inside. No shame in sharing that and I believe more people should be more willing, if able to, give it try if needed. #MentalHealthMatters #MentalHealthAwareness

P.S. If you have any additional ideas outside of the ones I’ve posted above about how I can make sure to not lose my sanity during this time, leave a comment below. 🙂 Thanks in advance.

Anyway, until next time…

XO,

Anamaria

January 2, 2019January 2, 2019

The first step to living the life you want is leaving the life you don’t want…

Happy New Year, readers!

We’re two days into 2019 and I thought with the kick off of a new year, I’d share some highlights of what I’ve been up to lately and my goals/resolutions of sorts that I have for this year.

So the last time I blogged was back in October, right before the one year anniversary of my breakup with my ex-boyfriend. It came and went as expected; I believe I went out the night of to distract myself and have fun. I tell ya, and I know I’ve said it countless times before, but I wouldn’t get through the tough times without my friends (OK, and of course, family, too).

Anyway, the day came and went and I always kept thinking about the day we broke up and the time we spent dating in the back of my mind every now and then, determined to finally get over him and the situation. Of course, like I’ve also said countless times before — that’s much easier said than done.

After that came and passed, I didn’t spend too much dwelling over it because, well, I had something very, very exciting to look forward to — a new full-time job! I was offered and accepted a position at Jackson National Life. The position is totally opposite of my former job as a reporter but let me tell you, I absolutely love it. I am so beyond happy and was absolutely thrilled to have been offered a position in my hometown, something that has always been my goal. Saturday marks two months since I started working there and I am so beyond eager and excited to see what the next 10 months (until my one year work anniversary) and beyond hold for me. I have a feeling it’s going to be great.

In addition to that, I spent my holidays with all my loved ones, family and friends — my friends and I did a friendgiving dinner and Christmas party gift exchange, which my cousin and his girlfriend — my best friend — were gracious enough to host at their house.

Soon enough the new year was here and right before it arrived, I met up with my ex-boyfriend.

*Cue the silence*

Yup.

We both got invited to a mutual friend’s going away party and before I knew it, we agreed to meet up beforehand for dinner.

Let me tell you how I felt…

Well, at first, I was honestly speechless. After having not seen each other for more than a year and barely talking on social media outside of that, I wasn’t sure how to feel about meeting up with an old flame.

Alright, so maybe I did. Honestly, albeit maybe even a bit (or a lot?) pathetically I had dreamed/imagined about what it would be like if we ever saw each other or hung out with one another. I tried my best not to give it too much thought, though, sort of, because based on the few conversations we had had it just didn’t seem like a likely scenario.

But, cue to the week before the party and we agreed to meet right before the party the day of. Honestly, I tried not to hold my breath because I just had this gut feeling tell me things would fall through. But, as the day of the party approached, he messaged me to ask if I still would like to get together. I did my best to play cool (lmao) and agreed. But what would we do — coffee, drinks, dinner?

I had already had a coffee shortly before we met up so we agreed on dinner. The next question was, though, where would we go? I being the indecisive person I am, let him decide and of course he just happened to pick my favorite restaurant. Not sure if he even knew that, but I was both thrilled and confused as to what, if anything, it meant. Although, based on how things went into the night and next day, I don’t think it meant much, if anything.

We agreed to meet at the restaurant and I arrived early, texting my friends I felt sick to my stomach. Why? What was I so nervous about? Oh, I don’t know because I was going to see my ex-boyfriend who I hadn’t seen in more than a year and didn’t end on the best terms with at the time. I really didn’t I think could do it. Yes, me, a grown ass woman (who deep down knows I don’t need a man and shouldn’t be freaking out over an old flame) was panicking about how things would go. How would we greet each other? What would we talk about? Would we even talk at all or simply sit there awkwardly and stare at each other?

As it turns out, you can’t let shit like that bother you. It went fine. And our greeting with a hug took me back to a good time when we used to date. I guess, yes, old feelings came flooding back but as I had told myself numerous times before and he made clear — we were just friends. Dinner went fine and smooth; us catching each other up on what the other has been up to over the past year. Even learned of a short-term girlfriend he had and honestly, I wasn’t bothered. The younger me would have been, as silly and ludicrous as it is, but as time has gone on, and what I remind myself of all the time — is that time does heal wounds. I was happy that he was happy.

Following dinner we rode to the going away party together and again, I still had those old feelings in the air, feeling both happy and sad at how much had changed since we first met and even started dating. Don’t get me wrong, it was nice, but as the night went on it felt like we could have been a couple, which threw me for a loop because I know realistically we can’t. And I was even more sure of that by the end of the night and New Year’s Eve.

It’s not to say I wouldn’t maybe date him again — or, that was my thought until Monday. Something about it being a new year and having had a chance to see him again after so long — made me more determined now than ever, to let him go. Maybe some day we can be friends or lovers again, but for now, I need and so badly want to focus on my exciting future both personally and professionally. I’m ready to give my all, my love, to a man who’s just as motivated to give the same back to me. Someone who is as certain about me as I am about them.

Remember ladies and men, know your worth and don’t let anyone treat you like you’re less than.

Anyway, something about the clock striking midnight had me feeling so excited, even more so than in years past. I don’t know exactly what it was, what my pinpoint was for my happiness and eagerness but I know one thing for sure, this year is going to be MY year. I have hope for this year that I’ll excel in my job, make new friends and meet new people to possibly date. Aaaaand eventually get around to actually working out in addition to eating healthier.

Life is too short to not take advantage of what it throws at us, good or bad. The bad times make us stronger and more appreciative and the good times are memories you’ll be able and want to cherish forever.

Who knows, too, maybe, just maybe my Mr. Right will appear in my life. Cheesy and cliche, I know. But at the same time — I think it’s about my time. I’ve been patient enough in waiting for love so bring it in 2019! LOL! Even if I don’t find Mr. Right this year, there is always next. And dating in the mean time should be fun. As Old Dominion sings…

“You gotta love like there’s no such thing as a broken heart.”

So no matter what your new solutions are, or whatever you’re letting go of and saying goodbye to in 2019, maintain the positive attitude that life will reward you with something new.

Until next time, readers…

XO,

Anamaria

March 7, 2018March 7, 2018

Photography is the beauty of life captured…

Let me tell you something. Something random.

I love pictures. I love being both in front of and behind the camera.

Why?

Because pictures capture moments, memories. You capture people’s personalities, sometimes even a glimpse into a rare, not often seen side of said personality.

I love pictures because even though relationships among the people in those photos can change, those photos themselves never will. A picture is a treasure you can keep and cherish forever.

Every so often I find myself scrolling through my Facebook photos from previous years and I feel an array of emotions—mostly happiness—I get happy reminiscing about those certain moments I shared with my loved ones, family and friends. It’s almost like I can remember exactly how I felt in that particular moment and wishing I could experience some of those moments again, because they were so fun and wonderful.

For example, being with my best friends on St. Patrick’s Day last year. It was the first time in a long time the four of us had hung out. It was a bittersweet feeling; bitter knowing it would likely be a long time again before the four of us hung out again, but sweet in the sense that we got to hang out period that day.

Or the time I got see Sleeping Bear Dunes for my first time last May. I had only ever seen photos and to experience it myself, hiking to the top, was exhilarating, exciting.

The time with my two former coworkers at one of their weddings. How grateful and blessed I felt that day, having been invited to her special day when having known each other for only about a year but, feeling like it has been much longer.

My 27th birthday at the Crystal Bar. My favorite bar, my hometown bar. Celebrating turning a year older with my family, best friends and then boyfriend. My favorite photo from that night was one of me and my then boyfriend–it didn’t make social media, but it was of me having had one too many and leaning against him, both of us sitting in chairs and him with my plastic birthday crown on his head. It was such a silly picture but one that, despite how different things are between me and him now, makes me smile and laugh any time I see it. That was a good birthday, probably one of my favorites. The other two being my 21st and 25th. 🙂

Visiting my best friend/former college roomie in Nashville and us visiting Arrington Vineyards. The background was breathtaking, a shot of the entire vineyard behind us. How breathtaking that view is.

That time I made my then boyfriend ride a camel at the fair. I laugh whenever I see that picture because it was so random; he never had ridden a camel and I’m pretty certain the guy operating the camel rides thought we were children.

The picture of my grandpa and me at my nephew’s wedding all dolled up. It’s not very often we get pictures together, especially all dressed up.

And oh how that day was anxiety-ridden at first; knowing my first ex-boyfriend would be there, but I was proud of myself for being the bigger person and going over and talking to him briefly before the night was over. I thanked him for helping my grandma find her way about since she can’t see that well anymore.

Anyway…

The pictures of my niece and I meeting our favorite band, Simple Plan during their meet and greet. I love those pictures because it’s actual proof I got to meet them. LOL! They are such sweethearts/down to earth in real life. All the more reason to love them.

The picture of my best friend and me in front of the MSU rock on campus; it having been at least a year or close to it since we saw each other last. That day was so fun. I got to finally meet her boyfriend and she got to meet my (then) boyfriend.

The picture of my two best friends and me in front of the state capitol during Silver Bells. A tradition we had done so many times before.

That’s why I love pictures. Each picture represents a certain time and even though moving forward the people might change in them, the pictures themselves don’t.

I know phones and cameras can sometimes be a nuisance and that were told to focus more on the moment itself rather than trying to capture the “perfect moment” but sometimes, just sometimes, capturing a particular moment on camera can be just as great. Just look back on your past pictures. Remember how they made you feel. Remember the scenery, the smells, everything.

So here’s to another year, until next March, or whatever month I just happen to catch myself looking at pictures from the year before.

Until next time…

XO,

Anamaria

November 6, 2017November 8, 2017

Count Your Blessings, Not Your Problems…

Hello, November.

‘Tis the season for eagerly awaiting turkey day sure to be full of lots turkey, of course, and all the fixings.

But of course the season, and this month in particular, is about more than just the good food that’s bound to come. It’s about being thankful.

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This year, right now, I am extremely thankful for the people in my life. If it weren’t for them I wouldn’t have made the progress I have in just under a month after experiencing the end of a relationship I pictured for the long term.

It’s true, the saying, “I get by with a little help from my friends.” (And family, too.)

They are the ones who love you unconditionally, make you smile when you’re sad and make you cry from laughing so hard. They are the ones who, sometimes despite their best efforts to stop you from being sad, let you use their shoulder to cry on and ears to vent to. They are the ones who remind you that just because one bad experience happened to you, doesn’t mean you have a bad life.

No one said life was easy, but it doesn’t have to be hard, either. We have the power to choose our own happiness and you have to make a conscious decision to be just that, happy, every day. And that’s something I continue to work on.

If it weren’t for them, my family and friends, I wouldn’t be able to see clearly that all of my life’s experiences, whether good or bad, teach me a lesson. The good ones make me happy and give me just that, a happy experience to look back on, while the bad ones teach me how to do better for next time and that there’s something better out there waiting for me, for which I cannot wait.

Sure, I miss what was, and a part of me always will. We had good times and I’ll always cherish those. I don’t regret our relationship. He was a great guy, just not the right guy for me. I’ll always cherish our relationship as a whole, too, but I’ll also move on from it, to the next chapter of my life. This past relationship taught me a lot about myself and love. I can look back and be happy about the good times we did share but remind myself, there’s another special someone out there for me who is my Mr. Right.

So to my dear family and friends, thank you.

Thank you all, family and friends, for…

Allowing me to cry with non-waterproof mascara down my face on your shoulder.
Allowing me to vent about how I think my life sucks and it’s over but reassuring me that there are plenty more fish in the sea and a silver lining to this cloud.
To all the texts, Facebook and Snapchat messages checking in on me to make sure I am hanging in there, some from people I wouldn’t have expected.
(My two best friends) driving 45 minutes just to come see me and hang out with me the day after the break up because they knew I was a wreck.
(My best friend in Nashville) texting me right away asking how I was doing, because she is the testament to a true friend, one who despite hundreds of miles between us, can offer support even over iMessages, lol. 🙂
The women in my family: Reminding me of what I deserve and to never, ever settle — in any aspect of life, but especially relationships.
Continuing to lift me on those days where I can’t help but think I miss the idea of us but pointing out that some people just aren’t meant to be, and that’s OK.
Letting me be sad for the time being and then making sure I don’t stay in that rut and getting out there and having fun, living my life and meeting new people.
Most of all, just thank you for being here for me overall, not just during this tough time but through all my other tough times, as well as good times.

I recently bought this wooden sign that says:

“My friends have made the story of my life”

and that could not be more true. So to my friends and family, thank you again, from the bottom of my heart. I am on the mend and I feel good about life. I am eager to see what this new month and the upcoming new year has in store for me.

Perhaps when I am fully healed I can open my heart to love again, or at least the possibility of it. I’m excited to just do things that make me happy while also enjoying the company of my loved ones, for who I am so incredibly thankful for, this month, and every other day and month of the year.

Until next time…

XO,

Anamaria

October 23, 2017October 23, 2017

Be kind, be thoughtful, be genuine, but most of all, be thankful…

still-life-07

I know I don’t say it enough but I have to say, I am extremely thankful to have the people I do in my life.

Whether it’s my family, best friends or acquaintances, they have proved to me in both good times and bad that I can rely on them, sometimes without me even reaching out to them first.

Reeling with a breakup is tough. I won’t be afraid to admit it that this one hurts like hell. And I know, I’m well aware I need to move on, and in time, I will.

I know I need to quit analyzing what went wrong because no matter how hard I try, it won’t ever make sense to me and I’ll likely never have a definitive answer, anyway. That’s the hard part. I hate not knowing things, the reasoning. Perhaps it’s part of my natural curiosity for things in general? Who knows…

For the longest time I never believed in “everything happens for a reason” but, as I got older, I realized that for me personally, it was the only way I could live my life. I had to believe there was a reason, even for the bad things, as to why they happened.

And I believe in it whole-heartedly now. While I may not know the answer now or ever, I must and do take comfort in knowing God must have something bigger up his sleeve for me.

I got to thinking the other day when talking with my cousin’s girlfriend about how her grandpa wants her to get married before he dies. It got me thinking to why I felt I was in such a rush to fall in love and get married and I realized that’s one of the reasons.

Of course, when I told this to my mom she said, and I of course agreed with her, that I couldn’t marry someone only for that fact. But, it definitely does play a big factor. On the other hand, I’ve wanted to fall in love and get married for as long as I can remember. I just love love. There is no simpler way for me to say it.

And while unfortunately I’ve dated frogs and haven’t found my prince yet, it was through those experiences that I learned what I will and won’t settle for when I do find true love and how thrilling and exciting it will be when I do find Mr. Right.

It also was through those experiences that I learned I do have true people in my life who I can lean on and whose shoulder I can cry on when my heart gets broken or for any other rough patch in life. People who will love me day in and day out and continue to do so no matter how many mistakes I make, or in this case, get my heartbroken and feel as though I’m not good enough.

Let me tell you, having a support system like I do is the greatest thing of all in life. I wouldn’t have made it through my past breakups, or other hardships in life, if it weren’t for my amazing friends, family and others who have gone out of their way to make sure they know I am always loved and cared for, and that my value doesn’t decrease just because of someone else’s inability to see it.

Sure, I roll my eyes — with a smile — when they tell me, because while as much as I don’t feel like I’m worth it when my heart and spirits get crushed, deep down I know it’s true, that I am loved.

Not only by them, but by God, too. I’m not a hugely religious person or anything but I do believe in God and ironically enough yesterday as I was driving back home I passed a church sign that said, “When all else fails, God loves you.”

It was a message that couldn’t have came at a better time for the situation I am dealing with right now. OK, so not all has failed me, like my mom pointed out, and that there are people beyond God who love me, but still, it was just both eerie and a nice reminder to know that I am not alone in feeling like this at the moment.

Like I said, in time I will get over this heartbreak. But it will take time. This I know.

It’s strange, though, while I am sad, I am also grateful for the experience because like I said above, it taught me what I will and will not settle for in the future. And like the quote goes,”It’s better to have loved and lost than to never have loved at all.”

So we didn’t work out? It sucks. But the people who end up being wrong for us end up leading us to the person who is right for us. And for that I am excited.

But my point of this particular post is, is that I couldn’t get through this without my friends and family. The ones who continue to lift me up a little more each day and remind me I am worthy of someone who loves me back just as I love them.

It wasn’t my last boyfriend and that’s OK. And again, I will be OK too, in time.

For now I will continue to grieve my breakup and focus on me and doing what makes me happy alone. And then one day when I am ready, I will get back in the dating game full-swing. Because whether anyone else believes it or not, I sure do, I will fall in love some day and have my “happily-ever-after.”

So my family and friends, thank you. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I truly can’t say it enough for I probably would never want to get out of bed because you know me, I like to be super dramatic and believe things are way worse than they actually are. But I know there are way worse things in the world than a breakup. My breakup wasn’t the first and it won’t be my or anyone’s last.

Remember, just because one person doesn’t love you the way you want them to, doesn’t mean no one else loves you. Hell, even a stranger might love you but you won’t know it until you meet that “perfect” stranger. 🙂

Until next time…

XO,

Ana

March 6, 2017August 7, 2017

Great things never came from comfort zones…

goals

Hey there!

March officially kicked off last week and with the spouts of warm, sunny weather we’ve had recently it’s gotten me really excited for the spring season and overall just new goals this month. I came across a fellow blogger’s post about goals for the month of March and decided to follow suit and do the same.

So here is what I hope to accomplish in order to break out of my usual comfort zone…

Actually finish Bethenny Frankel’s book, I Suck At Relationships So You Don’t Have To
Be more conscious of what I eat — not be so hardcore at counting calories that I set myself up for failure but, cutting back (hopefully) on pop and fast food. I recently have become addicted to pop again and with a vending machine at work that offers it, it’s easy to give in.
Be happy. Simple. There’s always going to be negativity in the world but it’s up to us individually on how we react to it. We can’t let the negativity define us or make us bitter. We must allow it to make us better and rise above it. And that goes for things that happen to us personally or in general. And of course, if it’s something we can fix, then we should most definitely try.
Understand and realize that not everything is as it seems. What I mean is that just because someone posts/presents a certain persona on social media doesn’t necessarily mean their life is as perfect as it may seem to you, the viewer. I for one often think this and then compare my life to theirs and feel like I am missing out on something but then I bring myself to reality and realize that while yes, people may have their own fantastic life, it may not always be perfect. And it’s totally acceptable to realize I too have a fantastic life, while not always perfect but, fulfilling, nonetheless.
Give people chances — but, not too many. I am the type of woman who wears her heart on her sleeve and whether it’s my family, or your my friend or my significant other, I will care deeply for you. I may not always show or tell it, but, I love the people in my life more than anything else in the world. My family, for example, are people I would truly be lost without. And while I may not always tell them, I do love them and most definitely will always fight for them. But by giving chances I mean being open to the opportunities that present themselves to me, whatever it may be. Whether it’s saying ‘yes’ to someone asking me out on a date (after all, what do I have to lose?), writing a story I may not have a ton of interest or expertise in but be willing to learn, giving people a chance to redeem themselves after a mistake, but, also not letting them take advantage of me. I can and will only give people so many chances. And this month, and continuing in the future, I vow to myself to not let people take advantage of me in any way by giving them too many chances.
Actually listen to what people are telling me and be actively engaged. I’ve noticed I tend to be hearing people but not always fully listening to the details and then later trying to piece together what exactly it was they were talking about. And this goes for both interviews for work and conversations among my family and friends.
Smile. Sure, this may sound silly but people always say, ‘fake it until you make it?’ right? Well, even when times are chaotic or I’m going through something where I’m feeling sad or down, I am going to grin and bear it. After all, life is much too short to be spent down.
Get moving more. Whether it’s something as simple/little as taking the stairs at my apartment or dancing to music while I’m getting ready for work or even putting my laundry away, I want to do my best to make sure I am moving more. After all, exercise gives us endorphins and endorphins make you happy. 😉
Keep in touch with people better. Lately I’ve realized that I am not always the best at keeping in touch with loved ones, like my friends. I tend to get so wrapped in my love for my new job and my new apartment that I let other important aspects of my life, such as my friends (and family, too) fall to the way side. I vow to be better at texting my friends and asking them how life is.
Lastly… My goal is to try and blog more!

What about you? What are YOUR goals for this month and the remainder of the year?

Leave me a comment!

Until next time…

XO,

Anamaria

November 3, 2015November 3, 2015

There Is Always Something To Be Thankful For…

November is the month of Thanksgiving.

So in honor of turkey day coming up at the end of this month and remembering what Thanksgiving is truly about, I want to share about the people in my life and why I am thankful for each and every one of them.

This past weekend, Halloween specifically, served as a reminder as to why I am truly blessed with the family I have. We may not be perfect–we may act a little nutty at times–and we may not see eye-to-eye on every thing but, at the end of the day, I wouldn’t trade any member of my family for the world. After how all, how boring would life be if we all got along every minute of every day? Agh, I can’t even imagine, LOL.

So let me first share why I am thankful for my family…

…. Also, I would like to point out that November is National Adoption Month, so it makes this month and post even more special and sentimental. 🙂

Why I am thankful for….

My mom and dad: Well, if weren’t for them I wouldn’t know what having loving parents feels like, or have shelter and the basic necessities of life. If it weren’t for both of them, I would not be the woman I am today. I’ll admit, I definitely don’t say ‘please’ or ‘thank you’ anywhere near enough, but, I am so beyond blessed to call them my mom and dad more than they will ever know. They taught me everything I know–well, maybe not spelling, LOL, but just about everything else. But the one, single most important thing they’ve taught me is to NEVER give up. I’ve had countless times where I said I give up, I’m throwing in the towel, but, they told me to keep pushing myself and eventually, what’s meant to be will find its way. I will never be able to thank them for everything they have done, do now an will continue to do–and I can only hope then that I make them proud. Thank you, mom and dad, for being the absolute best parents in the world. I love you both more than words could ever explain. Just always remember that–even though, you know, I am a brat most of the time. LOL. It’s how I show my love. Plus. some parts of my personality/behavior come from BOTH of you. I.e. My OCD-like behavior comes from mom, and my “truck driver” mouth as you, mom, call it (lol), I would say I get from dad. That, and he and I both watch shows you consider “scary/gross” like Criminal Minds. Love you both!

My brother Tom: I don’t normally post sappy/sentimental posts about my siblings individually but, considering this is a month to be even more thankful than normal, I will share why my brother means so much to me. I can’t imagine having a different “Tom” for a brother. Sure, when he and I were younger we would argue the most but now that we’re older we hardly ever fight. Mom and dad think we’re fighting sometimes but most of the time we’re joking. Honestly, our relationship and interaction is quoting Mean Girls and other movies. I couldn’t imagine doing that with anyone else. I am proud and thankful to have Tom as my brother because he is hardworking and dedicated person. He’s also extremely caring and protective–especially when it comes to this family. I love you big bro–even though sometimes we do really fight and I yell how much I can’t stand you–know at the end of the day that I love you and wouldn’t trade you for anyone else!

My brother Adam: We’ve never been one to fight majorly, except on some certain occasions (lol), which I will not go into detail about, but, Adam, he’s like no other. Of course I mean that in a good way. Even though we don’t always see eye to eye on things, the one thing I admire and look up to him for is always standing up for what he believes in, being a hard worker and not taking people’s bullshit. He’s not only smart, but he’s extremely loyal both to this family and even his closest friends–who he treats just like his own family. He’s always there to listen when I ask him for advice, even though most of the time i do the opposite, lol, I know he means well with what he says and only wants what’s best for me. Plus, he surprised me a couple months ago when he told me how well he knows me–and that family is everything to me. Oh, he got me that time. But that’s because he’s that amazing of a big brother. Love you!

My brother Kyung-Hong: Where do I even begin? There aren’t enough words to explain how incredibly grateful I am to have you in my life as a brother. Even though you haven’t lived close (enough) to us in awhile, you are never truly that far away. I love that I can always count on you, whether it’s a phone call or text, when I need advice or to vent. In fact, I miss our late night chats when you come to visit. Of course, times have changed since we were younger and you have Yoomi, Calvin and Genette, and most of the time I am out with my friends when you’re here 😦 but, it doesn’t mean I love you any less. You are truly an inspiration to me. It’s so amazing to see you follow through and achieve your dream of owning your own dental practice. I can only hope to one day do the same–achieve my dream of working in the news/journalism field with my dream/right-fit-for-me position. I love you so much and am so, so blessed and thankful to call you my big brother.

My sister Michele: Well, for starters, thanks to you I have great hair AND great teeth. LOL. But beyond that, I am thankful you’re my sister because (in my opinion), like Adam, you don’t put up with other people’s bullshit. You’re extremely caring and protective of not only your own family but mom and dad and us siblings as well. Plus, I’m thankful for you putting up with my shenanigans like when I called you late at night and made you come over when I was crying over a certain boy. LOL. Good times, right? I’m thankful you live down the street from us so I can see you, Robert and the kids often–not everyone is so lucky to have their sister/bro-in-law/niece and nephew live so close to them. 🙂 I am thankful for all the times we get to share together–especially up north and our bond over coffee and the grumpy guy at Starbucks. LOL! Even though there’s a whole 19 years age difference between us, I’m glad you’re my sister. Plus, you’re also one of two of my favorite gingers so there ya go! 😉 Love you!

My sister Sheila: The one thing I admire about you is you will go above and beyond for your kids. You will do absolutely anything to make sure they are protected and don’t have to put up with what they don’t deserve. I’m thankful you’re my sister because if it weren’t for you I wouldn’t have done as well with my math classes or classes that involved creative projects without your help. (Remember the Buddha in high school?) And like Michele, you’re protective of our WHOLE family, not just your own kids and Lon. I appreciate the fact you would do anything for any single one of us. Plus, you as a sister you give tough love–and by that, you tell me the truth, even though it may not always be what I want to hear–like when I dated a certain someone and I so badly wanted it to work and you told me it just simply wasn’t meant to me and I could do better. I didn’t appreciate it back then but looking back, I see you were right and I am glad I have siblings who care enough to tell me the cold hard truth that they know will truly benefit me and pay off in the end. Thank you!

After explaining why I am thankful for my parents and siblings, I would list every single niece and nephew I have but then this blog post would seriously go on for literally ever. But, I am VERY MUCH THANKFUL to have the BEAUTIFUL nieces and nephews I do. I can’t imagine life without any of them them. Plus, as much as I say now how I don’t ever want kids (but my whole family is adamant I’ll change my mind), I know I would be okay with not having any because I have so many wonderful nieces and nephews (AND two GREAT-nieces) to keep me occupied. 😉 So, I am incredibly thankful for my siblings for allowing me to be an aunt. Being an aunt is truly one of the best things in the world. 🙂

I am of course also extremely grateful for my (maternal) grandparents (and my paternal grandparents as well–even though they’ve passed, I know they’re always here in spirit <3) who are both still alive and are always around. I am thankful and incredibly blessed they are still here and doing just dandy in life. I’m even more thankful they were both able to see me achieve a huge accomplishment of mine–walking across the stage at CMU to receive my Bachelor of Science degree last December. It means the world to me to have them here for both the BIG AND LITTLE moments. I cherish every single time I get to spend with them. ❤

AND of course I am thankful for my brother/sister-in-laws and extended family like my aunts, uncles and cousins. ❤ ❤ ❤

Now to give thanks to some of my best friends… Obviously aside from my family, I have NO idea what in the world I would do without the following people in my life. We’ve experienced good times obviously, but, we’ve also experienced some tough times and it was through those our friendship(s) became even stronger. I can’t imagine not having these friends as a support system. These are the friends who I consider like family who have been there since day one of our friendship.

Erin: You are my number one, ride-or-die best friend in the entire world. My other half. ❤ I honestly am so blessed to have you as a friend and share a special bond (being adopted) and you standing up for me in the second grade when some kids were not being so nice about me being adopted. I don’t know what I would without you in my life. And even though you ended up moving two hours away in the third grade, our friendship withstood that. Not all friends can manage long-distance friendships but we’ve managed to do it for years now and for that I am proud and grateful. We never let distance, new friends, time, work or anything else get in between us. And even though now it seems like sometimes we go TOO long without seeing each other, we are always able to pick up where we left off. I would really be lost without you and I can’t wait to see you as my maid of honor one day when I get married. Love you so much, best friend!

Sarahann a.k.a “SarahAnn The Wonderful” a.k.a. “SA”: I can’t even begin to explain what it means to have you in my life as a best friend. I am so incredibly thankful we met and became friends in junior high. There is NEVER a dull time between us and we are always laughing at such random things. We can be silly with each other, but, you’re also the friend who lends a listening ear or shoulder to cry on if needed. You are the definition of a true friend and I am thankful everyday we have never once grown apart. I am also thankful for you and the others for sticking with me literally through thick and thin–like a time ago when I sacrificed my friend for a boy–you all were still there at the end and for that I will be forever grateful to all of you for that. Not all friends would do that and so that just goes to show what amazing friends I have. Thank you for being you and for being such an amazing person and friend all these years. Here’s to endless more years of friendship.

Maria: First off, lucky us for being able to be neighbors. YAY! Second off, you are not only an incredible person but you are a STRONG person. I would have never thought we as a group of friends (and of course your family) would have to endure such a difficult situation of you getting cancer in high school, but I believe our friendship is even stronger because of it. I can’t imagine a life without you in it because you are truly an amazing person. You have one of the biggest hearts of anyone I know and that isn’t always easy to come across in people. I love that we can trade clothes with each other and all cry with each other when we’ve had a bit too much to drink (i.e. Heidee and April’s apartment bathroom, LOL) and always pick up where we left off. While you no longer live in town, like I just said–we’re always able to pick right back up and for that I am thankful. Thank you for being such a great friend. I can’t wait to experience so many more memories with as we grow old together–because yes, we WILL grow old together–all of us. 😉

Cassie: You are truly one of a kind. I mean that in a good way too! I wouldn’t get nearly as many laughs in my life if it weren’t for you. You are always cracking jokes and being sarcastic and I of course believe every word you say. LOL. Plus we take awesome selfies together and say “Bye Felicia” on a frequent occasion. HA! But you are truly an amazing person on the inside and out and you too have a big heart that cares so much for others, which is what I appreciate most about you. I can’t imagine knowing another girl with your personality because there can only be ONE Cassie B. 😉 Thank you for showing me what a true friend is over the years I can’t wait to see what crazy new memories we make in the future. ❤

Ashley a.k.a. my “little” (sister): Oh my…. Where to begin? You are truly one of the most phenomenal people I have ever met. I knew the second I met you and realize you loved Disney that I wanted YOU to be MY little. I was going to freak and be super sad if we weren’t matched up. You’re truly the peanut butter to my jelly, cheese to my macaroni, milk to my cookie, spring in my step, flip to my flop… You get the idea, right? You are truly a beautiful person on the inside and an even more beautiful SOUL. You go above and beyond for everyone you know and you would give the world to make others around you happy. I love you so much and am so thankful you were chosen as my little sister–the one I never had but am thankful I do now. You are one of a kind and if there’s any advice I could give to you should you ever doubt yourself (not that you should) is: “NEVER LET ANYONE DULL YOUR SPARKLE.” It’s a quote I love and like to live by because you should always strive to do what’s best for YOU. I love you and am so thankful to have you in my life. Together forever, never apart. Maybe in distance, but never at heart. ❤

Kayla: It’s crazy to think that your original choice was to attend WMU instead of CMU but boy am I sure glad you made the change. I am so happy I was able to experience college with you by being roomies. I couldn’t have asked for a better roommate. Even though I am super sad you don’t live here anymore, I am SO, SO incredibly proud of you for following your dreams and creating your own life in TN. Plus, even though you live in a different state, at least it’s a cool one that I always look forward to coming to visit. LOL. I know you’re already doing big things but I have no doubt you’ll do even bigger things in the future and that is something I admire a lot. Thank you for being not only a wonderful roommate all those years at CMU but for being an AMAZING friend. I look back on our memories together and they are all happy, funny memories. Like “Quivers” for example. Oh, our many inside jokes. HAHA! I look forward to making even more memories together when we see each other here or there.

Courtney: Words cannot explain how thankful I am to have you AND Kennedy in my life. We’ve been best friends sixth grade and who would have thought we would be where we are today? 🙂 I admire you so much for being a positive role model to Kennedy and doing everything you can to make sure she’s taken care of. You are amazing mother and I am so proud of you for that. I am also proud and thankful to call you one of my best friends forever–and I’m super happy we’ll now live closer together. 🙂 Thank you for being such a wonderful, amazing friend and even more so, just a wonderful, amazing person in general. Never forget how strong, amazing, awesome and fabulous you are either! Can’t wait to see what memories we continue to make in the future!

Alison: We’ve known each other forever and while as we’ve gotten older we haven’t been able to hang out as much, I do and will always consider you one of my best friends. I am so thankful our brothers met and became friends so we could become friends. So many of my childhood memories involve you since we lived down thee street from each other. I have had too many laughs to count with you (and even your family–and going on vacations together; what fun!) and I am so thankful to have you in my life. Plus, I am also incredibly honored you asked me to be a part of your and Ryan’s special day next year. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for us and what new memories we’ll make. I love you (and Ryan) both and I can’t wait to stand by your side during one of the best moments of your life. Thank you for being such an incredible friend. ❤ ❤ ❤

Okay, I could literally go on and on with a list of my friends who I am thankful for but, honestly, my fingers hurt from typing. LOL.

But, to all of my friends who weren’t specifically named (and you know who you are…. I hope!), know I appreciate my friendship with each and every one of you. We may not see each other/hang out or talk to each other as often as we like (adult life, ya know), but know I am extremely blessed to have you all in my life. Don’t forget that either. Love you guys!

So tell me… What are YOU thankful for this month? In general?

Feel free to comment and share.

Until next time…

XOXO,

Ana