myuniver.city

Study in a Spanish speaking country: CHECK!

2011-06-04T07:23:00.017-04:00

Here's the entry to crossing off "study in a Spanish speaking country" from my bucket list.
[Studied from April 29-May 29, 2011: Cultura de Cuba y El Cine de Cuba a la universidad de holguín, Cuba]

To experience what I've experienced; studying in another country....I don't even know what words to use to describe the exact experiences as a whole.
When people ask, I always say "Amazing!" however; why do I still feel like that is such an understatement?
Nonetheless, I guess all I can say is that it was amazing + so much more because not only did I gain the education/that university credit, I gained an experience and first-hand knowledge of Cuba and its life-style, which not many can say the way I did. For that reason, I truly am grateful for everything, and especially to my parents for all their support which allowed me to do this (sidebar: Essay written to Mom & Dad for this trip: T DEFINITELY WELL WORTH IT). I guess all I can really say is that the experience was amazing + so much more, or...indescribable.
Things I will never forget (snippet of my trip);
1.Festival Romerías! Partying Sunday-Saturday the whole first week of May...which transpired to partying every single night throughout the trip.
2.Universidad de Holguin:
-Profesora Carolina (Her famous quotes: "QUE?!", "WHAT!?!" "Como, Alyssa?" in reference to how dark I am...meaning, "as dark as Alyssa?" haha)
-Profesor Lino - loved that cinema class more than I expected.
-Substitute Profesor Jose-Luis! beautiful...but sadly didn't sway my way..
3. Guardalava - All inclusive resort. 4 of us got lost as soon as we arrived because we strayed away from the group. Then another 4 of us got lost at night after going to the club ON the resort. So drunk, we thought we weren't even on the resort and didn't know how to get back to our area. Whole time...lost while we were on the damn resort thinking we weren't and trying to figure out how to get back. We never get lost in the city, yet for the one night we're on a resort, we're lost..twice: day & night (sober AND drunk).....what FOOLS we are.
4. Cubanos Amigos! Nestor, Dario, Jorhan & Ruben
5. Cubanos requesting that I be their novias during my stay in Cuba? (haha) We've got...Alejando, Alberto, Daniel, Manuel & Jordan. Not gunna lie, these Cubanos are suave.
6. Excursions to Santiago, Gibara, Mirador, Playas Esmerelda & Pescero, Native grounds thing...me olvide que lo se llama.
7.Major party nights at:
-Resort
-Club Santiago
-Nocturno!
-Siboney! That deliciously tasting chicken...on the dance floor.
-Bottle service, EVERYWHERE. Why? How? Oh...$5 bottles of Rum!
*Siboney was most def the fav. where everyone seemed to get real smashed.
8.Pre drinking en el parque calixto garcía
9.5 Peso pizza!
10. Pranking the boys: taking underwear, all products, putting pads with red lipstick all over room
11.Getting ready for the beach the next day...after the bar at 2am! Slept in my bikini + packed my bags drunk then rolled out of bed. THEN, by the end of the trip, somehow managed to convince 4 other people to get ready for the beach, and we all passed out in my room on our beds drunk after the bar...in bikinis. Woke up...thinking wtf?! and still a bit drunk.
12.Songs: Chupi chupi, vem dancar kuduro, un cachito, on the floor, alors on dans, loca
13.Despedida dinner in the dark with the profs (2 hours power outtage on our last night!)
14.Flip cup with our Profs
15. Car running out of gas going home from beach....when 4 of us have to be at the airport in one hour.
16.Room not opening when we finally get back to house & have to rush out and say bye :(
17.Food: Eggs, tomatoes, carrots, bread, platanos, rice, beans, spaghetti, mystery meat, ham, rabbit....,fish, pineapple, mango & REPEAR....lunch and dinner for one month.
18. THE LIST --things to be completed on the last day
19.When Tom tried to do some "Hardcore-pool-parkour" over the kiddie pool...AND slipped. Bahahahahaha!
20.When I fell of the hammock. Hahahahah
21.Dead cockroach being thrown at Diane by Tom for retaliation of prank wars.
22.Drama,gossip...of course. What else would 18 girls and only 2 guys do on a trip living together for a month? Nonetheless, good times.
23.Walking back and forth to Parque Calixto Garcia, my fav spot.
24. Celebrating May 24!!
25. TSSSSSSSSSSS! *whistle, "hey lady" "lub chu" "izz butiful"

I'm sure there's more I've missed...but for now those are the highlights that i can remember.
Here are some snapshots to put some of my memories into images:

¡VIVA CUBA!

Next stop: Spain & France in 17 days.

a.

Word to the adventurous travelers: Skip the resorts in Cuba. Yes, they are extraordinarily beautiful, however the party and livelihood is always in the city and definitely be in Holguin on a Friday or Saturday night. If you can, get there for Romerías (first week of May) because the party happens every single night at Parque Calixto García)

Bye Bye Sherwood

2011-04-27T20:38:00.003-04:00

For 2 years, we've built this TACK relationship in this house and now we're off to our 4th year and ending it off in a new house. I'm sad, but excited.....Sherwood and everything that came with it will be missed ...Paula, Sherwood Shovelers, The Rowers, Miles + drama etc. Haha.

Bedroom all packed up....

a.

It is April....

2011-04-11T10:20:00.005-04:00

...and of course, it is a students least favourite time of year (exam time). For me, this April is a little bit hectic in a non-exam way than usual (for 2 reasons):

1. TACK are sadly leaving this Sherwood house and moving on May 1st, so we are busy packing amongst our exams. My room is starting to look empty...it is weird. I feel like the last time I saw this was when I moved in about a year and a half ago and things weren't unpacked. Now things are being packed.

Currently what is left

2. I'm getting ready to Spanish it up in Cuba in 19 days for school! (I'm really excited and all, but I have so much to do before that). I'm not letting the excitement take me away from what's really important right now and that is still exams -___-

What really got me wanting to write this blog was, this morning I woke up and aside from a whole bunch of names/dates in Canadian History being repeated in my head from studying, I remembered that half way through the year I said, we only have 13 weeks left of school. Now I'm waking up to, I have 13 DAYS left in London and I'm gone for the summer doing God knows what right now, but I'm sure my adventures will take me somewhere; I'll start with Cuba!
Holguin!

It's crazy to believe that I'm basically done 3rd year of University at this point. I did not think it would go by this quickly and when I come back in September, it will be my last year. How crazy is that.
I don't want to get all sad because it's almost over and I'll save that crap for next year, for now I should just enjoy the HELL out of being here.
Time to study for exams! --oh yeah, my first one is tonight at 7pm, let's hope I did a sufficient amount of studying ;)

As always...I will miss TCK <3 over the summer

a.

Lent

2011-03-31T00:00:00.004-04:00

I think I forgot to mention, aside from giving up Twitter...I also gave up chocolate.
& FUCK, I REALLY MISS CHOCOLATE AND WANT SOME SOO BAD!!(what a Crazy, I know) I don't even care about twitter, in fact it has been a lot easier than I ever expected. I don't even think about it anymore.
I can't wait for Easter and all the bunny chocolates and mini eggs!! OHH holiday chocolate galore! I will be going nutz on the day/week after gettin that 70% off shit. OH YEAAAAH! Just like Valentines day, it's all about the day after, 50% off erthang! That's what you call *saving.
I JUST WANT CHOCOLATE
#fatass --OHHHP, there's a twitter reference! hahaha

at.

techNOlogy

2011-03-11T00:39:00.004-05:00

I gave up twitter for lent.
Facebook sucks balls --it's too boring.
My Hotmail account has been suspended and I can no longer access it (probably because I keep spamming people) / it says they think someone is hacking my account. Thus, I can't even go on msn.

My computer is just becoming socially useless. I think it's telling me that I should just do my damn homework. I guess it's about time since I only have one more month of school left. This is probably for the best.

At least I still have this blog and my phone.

a.

Snow(BRO)'n

2011-03-02T19:27:00.007-05:00

Last reading week, I had the time of my life partying it up and learning how to surf on the awesome island of Puerto Rico with my best friend. This reading week, unfortunately I was not on a beach, soaking in the hot sun. Instead I was home and snowboarding and working on assignments due throughout the actual week of reading week (lame-ass-shit). Nonetheless, I do love spending time at home of course and since I knew the week was going to be incomparable to last years, I decided to make the most of it.

Though we have our many, many, many differences...my brothers and I share quite a few things in common, we share the same sense of humour, and athletic genes; the constant need to be doing some form of physical...we just can't stop! (ask Mama dukes and Senor T). Our latest family addiction was snowboarding and let me tell you, this week...that's all we did.

The night before I left to go back to school, I realized that I really enjoyed my reading week at home (even though I was extremely desperate to be on a beach). I did not think I would end up having this much fun, in all honesty. Mainly because I was comparing this reading week with no plans to last years reading week in PR. Of course, when you compare cold weather + homework to a hot beach + surfing....you wouldn't be too thrilled to be sitting around this year like I was. But in fact, i had a pretty good time....
I was even dreading going back to London the following morning because I was so comfortable at home with all the cooked meals and just hanging around with my bros. I've been living away from home for 3 years now and I sometimes forget what it's like to be at home with them. That is why I also love Christmas time, because I get to be home for more than a weekend and really live in the house with them (more than just a weekend trip home). They probably sometimes forget what it's like to live with me; things are a bit different --we're older.
Because in the summer, being home for 4 months...it almost seems like I'm home for too long and all we want to do is kill each other and I keep thinking, I can't wait to go back to school. So Christmas and reading week are a pretty good balance in terms of time at home.
I miss them more than I say I do. They probably don't even know how much I actually appreciate and love spending time with them --they must think I'm annoying, haha. We fight and have our differences of course; have that love-hate relationship but who really doesn't?
Anyways....it was nice and I really appreciated the time with them. Sibling bonding FOR THE WIN :D <3

Blue Mountain (Family Day, Feb 21, 2011)

GREEN (ay) BAY BAY!

2011-02-07T22:43:00.008-05:00

PACK, PACK, PACK IT UP!

FOR ALL THEM CHEESE HEADS :D
Seriously lovin' this win!!
Sidebar: Up next, NCAA March Madness
Welcome home Vince Lombardi, you're right where you belong --Titletown.
12odgers, what a champ.

I <3 you Aaron Rodgers & Greg Jennings! GO PACK GO!

Ps. Weezy's track Green & Yellow for the Pack is pretty dope, well done.

Eggs n Toast & Boyz II Men

2011-02-03T13:19:00.010-05:00

Standing Bow

+

MMMMMM....

+

AWWW YEEEAHHH....

=

:) always a good day

Since about 2 weeks ago, I've been insanely crazy on the Moksha Yoga tip because of their one month-unlimited special (so you can imagine I've been taking much advantage of that). Ever since I've been doing it much more regularly than ever, I have been feeling really good --in general, just about everything (school, myself etc.). It is a nice feeling, to be somewhat healthy. I say "somewhat" because, I could do a lot better with my diet. Oh well, I'll work on one thing at a time.

This morning, I hopped out of bed at 6:20 and made it for the 7-8am Moksha class. I absolutely loved it, small class and a great start to my day it was. If only I could drag myself out of bed that early every morning to get a work out in. It feels much more accomplishing, I don't lose my day (in fact, I probably gain more of my day because it's not spent/wasted sleeping) and over all it gets me energized. We'll see how many more times I can do that. It's really just the "getting up" part that is the toughest. Once I'm out the door, everything just goes well from there.

Anyways, I would have to say the funnier part of this was at home when I was making my [oh-so-healthy] breakfast, because I was feeling all "good about my health" --see, another reason to do morning work outs, motivates you to eat healthier!
So, I'm at home making my breaky in the kitchen (aka "The Alyssa creation" ..for those that don't know me, I don't know how to cook...so I make my own shit up and just name it whatever) It was basically just scrambled eggs + chopped red peppers in between 2 pieces of toast....lol, SO GOOD.
As this is happening, TG & CB left for Kings, KD was still sleeping --I decided to put my pod on. But TG's class was canceled so she came back home and oddly enough the next song on shuffle was Boyz II Men: I'll make love to you. I hear the door open...and I'm like wtf who is here...? So i'm carrying my pan of eggs and staring at the door..and it's T. What an odd moment to catch me, eggs in hand + a slow jam of Boyz II Men, haha!
For reals though, I swear I can listen to Boyz II Men any time of day, anywhere and in any given circumstance. They're just so throwback/sick....I friggin love them! *I can't believe I've missed them at Rama twice already....so sad.

Moments like these make University/Life itself pretty funny.

at.

2011: A New Decade

2011-01-02T20:17:00.004-05:00

As if it's already 2011...Everyday I think to myself, I can't believe I'm at this point in my life --University, living away from home, making my own (bad) decisions and learning from them...how the hell did I get here?! It's like my whole life just fast forwarded. It felt like yesterday that I was in high school, yet it's been 3 years.
The past 20 years of my life have been pretty cool and crazy I guess; I'm young, I know, what's not cool? Now it's time for a new decade; should be interesting. I hear that the next 10 years of my life will be pretty damn good and I guess this will be the decade where I get to cross off a lot of things off my bucket list (hopefully). Start a career of some sort, travel the hell out of my bank account, go on crazy adventures with the people I love, maybe even fall in love? We'll see...
I've got no expectations but just dreams. You can call me a dreamer, but I'm just chasing happiness.

I didn't want to make this post about new years resolutions or looking back on my year --because I do that all the time. Go look at some previous posts, I've reviewed some years, I've made goals (that I haven't achieved) haha! Why not make this one about hopes. Screw goals, I got enough of them. I'll just stick to those ones, I don't need new ones right now.
I'm really excited for what my future has in store for me and the next 10 years will take me there.
Hope everyone starts this year on high note!
Happy 2011 people, get pumped --this decade is going to be hella epic.

Snowmaggedon

2010-12-18T09:10:00.006-05:00

Since I'm home for the holidays now (with basically nothing to do and lots of time to spare) I figured I would finally document the most epic snow week in London --ever!
Not much to say except we had 4 snow days (3 in a row: Dec 6-8 & Dec 15). It was sort of daunting being stuck in the house for those days because there wasn't much to do except eat, sleep, shovel, watch movies. Eventually we found some other fun, got drunk and stayed in and read Cosmo, played our own version of Cranium (went through the entire deck of cards), and played in the snow of course. We did that over and over again. You would think...logically, if a student was give 3 snow days before the exam period they would study. Nope, not in this house. The "Rowers" of Sherwood were constantly outside and the opportunities that we did have to study, we just fucked around and did shit all.
Sidebar: KD decided to have her own fun one night--took a bug and basically put it in everyones face. GROODDDDYYY! She claims she was testing out some anxiety theory or something like that for studying. I beg to differ, I think the anxiety just seemed to fit into her little fun. If you're reading this KD...I love you, but NEVER DO THAT AGAIN (thank you).
So now, I'm back home and I miss TCK and all the shenanigans we've been up to the past week (but that's usually how it is. I'm in London - I miss home, I'm at home, I miss London...I will never be satisfied haha, it's okay, I enjoy both places nonetheless).
I just wish we had a little bit more snow here...seeing actual roads and grass is such a foreign and odd concept to me right now because I basically came from what looked like the Arctic (of London). Put my Sorel's away and pulled the UGGlies back out. Might as well pull out my flip flops while I'm here...because there's just no snow. Anyways --i'll keep the complaining to a minimal here, I'm sure the snow will com eventually.

at.

"Sherwood Rowing Team" at its finest....
KD + CB jumping off the porch

sick ass fort built by the guys around the corner

KD & I...chillin on the roof

In the wasp nest

Christmas with the TANKS!

2010-12-05T21:28:00.016-05:00

I haven't been home in 7 weeks prior to this past weekend, and shit, did I need it. I basically spent my entire weekend with my family and as noted in my previous post, some QT with the Dad. Yesterday I spent some Momma-Daughta time doing the favourite; shopping and in fact, spending time with her reminded me how much I really do love Christmas at home.
While we were out, she told me that she never really feels the true Christmas spirit until I come home in December because I bring home Christmas cheer :) seeing as I'm the one prancing around the house blasting Christmas music, wearing holiday pj's all day, baking cookies, and of course...decorating! The past few years, everyone has been dropping the decorating and I've been left doing it, which is completely fine by me! I've had the help of my elf brother, Ray...but he sort of sucks (I wonder if he'll ever read this one day....Ray if you're reading this, note that you're just young and annoying with your ugg kindergarden ornaments. They belong at the back of the tree. Lies, this year I'm letting you keep it at the front because I'm puting mine up now too; even! I love you!)
Anyways, every year picking out the Christmas tree + taking our annual family photo to send out has been a tradition in the Tanker household. But as we've all gotten older, it's just been so tedious because we are all so busy. Realistically it's now been like, we get the tree, put it in the house, Alyssa decorates with Ray's help. Chris vanishes, Dad starts continues to work on whatever home project he's started for the holidays and Mom's cooking something. So, every year since I've left home for school --the first weekend I come home in December is always the weekend we get the Christmas with the Tanks in gear; get the tree/the house all festive, start some xmas shopping, and take that cheery photo that makes us look like the perfect family (meanwhile, we are such a dysfunctional group).
Apparently this year my brothers were really surprised to hear that I was coming home this weekend just because we were getting the tree and I'll be back next week after my exams, so it seemed pointless. However to me, it's never pointless, it get's us all together and it's a tradition! I even heard their sarcastic remarks like, "Of course we have to get the tree this weekend because Alyssa's home and the world revolves around her" --haha! I don't even care, that was really funny and what the hell, it's something that actually gets the 5 of us together.

Though, my ultimate favourite family moment this weekend comes from our Christmas Card Photo. I'm telling you, this year..it was a 2 hours ordeal just to get this damn photo taken. Let me take you through this wonderful moment in which pretty much describes this house....

7pm: After dinner, it's decided that the photo will be taken. Where everybody at?
-Mom's watching tv
-Chris decides that he will start cutting Ray's hair
-Dad....painting the new molding he put up???! wtf.
-Me...WAIIITTTTINNGG in the living room & all ready. We said this photo would be taken after dinner. It's after dinner.
*Apparently this photo session will be running on Filipino time. I did not get that memo.

7:30pm
-Mom decides to go pick out an outfit
-Chris is changing
-Ray decides to take a shower
-Dad...still painting!!! & now he moved the tripod I had all set up, great.
-Me...still waiting....

8pm
-Mom is somewhat ready
-Chris comes upstairs and says, "We're only doing a half body shot right? because I'm just going to wear these ball shorts" --True, only a half body shot...so whatever. He's ready enough and now waiting with me (score, 2/5)
-Ray is changing
-Dad..finally decides to go and change. Sidebar: Mom tells Dad...go find an sweater that you did NOT wear in a previous xmas photo! This happened last year I believe. He wore a sweater that he wore in another xmas photo about 5 years before, haha!
-Me...still waiting. But now that Chris is waiting with me, out of boredom I started sharing youtube vids with him (He did not really care that much)

8:15pm
-Dad comes down...
-Mom says he already wore that shirt
-I said No, he wore that on Thanksgiving. Hahahah!
-Dad goes back upstairs to change

8:30pm
EVERYONE IS FINALLY DOWNSTAIRS
We start doing the photo thing...so many issues, figuring out centering, height, colour...jeeze...this is taking forever. We finally get a descent photo:

8:40pm
Mom looks at the pic and says, "Raymond your shirt looks ugly..it doesn't fit in. Go change. I'll find you a new outfit"
-SOOO NOW...the child is upstairs changing...

8:45pm
-Back downstairs for round 2. Mom & Dad want a photo of just the two of them. Ray thought I was just testing the camera and started waving his hands in front of the lens. Dad is now getting pissed off because Ray is just being annoying and they're trying to take a God-damn photo. Flash goes off, Dad is not happy. All your fault Ray.
-All of a sudden Dad is just not in a pleasant mood anymore because Ray is just being difficult; ruining photos AND all of a sudden he decides to eat a CANDY..which is chewy so we have to wait for him to finish it. Everyone is forcing Ray to apologize --in Chris' words: "Apologize to Dad and give him a kiss & a hug" Then Ray felt bad because we all told him he had to because it's all his fault Dad is mad now and not smiling in photos. Took him forever...and as this whole argument was going on, I was clicking away.
Take a peak:

Dad's not happy:

Be eating his candy...

Us forcing Ray to apologize

Eventually it happened (note Chris' snarky Grin, Mom's joyful face, haha):

8:50pm
FINALLY COME UP WITH THIS, wonderful. Only took us about 2 hours....
(I'm telling you....I was just itching to leave because I did have plans..and I kept pushing them back haha)

Now, on a Part 2 & even more crazy note:
9pm, as I'm heading out of the house...my parents are changing back into house clothes. BUT WAIT, let's play dress up! Mom be coming down in her leather jacket + trying on this fur hat. Dad decides to do the same, puts on this mad fur pimp coat + his cottage hat & dressing up like they got nothing better to do. THEY LOOKED LIKE THEY WERE GOING TO 2 DIFFERENT EVENTS. Mom looks like she's going to some evening show in Russia and Dad looks like he's possibly a bear or going up to the cottage to do some work or something.

Finally, Mom made Dad change to make it look like they are going to the same God damn event, so here:

Remember...they did not go anywhere that night. After this, it was OASIS HD all night with Ray while Chris and I had our own plans, haha.

This is .....Christmas with the TANKS. Can't wait to be home in another 8 days!

at.

A Perfect Man

2010-12-02T15:10:00.014-05:00

This should be an interesting post...
I don't really know why I'm writing this, but I sort of know what sparked it. Read along with my thoughts and maybe I will eventually find some sort of reason.

The Perfect Man --is someone that I don't know, nor do I think anyone knows. Actually, that could be a lie, because some people will say they do have that "perfect man" but I guess it's all up to ones preference.

Do I even have a man? Nope
Want one? ehhh...I don't know, maybe if he's perfect, or close to it, haha! (who doesn't think this?)

Anyways, coming home throughout the school year is a lot different than coming home for the summer, and for those that live away from home --I'm sure you can agree to this. The relationship and dynamic of my parents and I's relationship changes because we appreciate each others company much more; it's sad but true. It's actually a pretty healthy balance.

I've been home for about 24 hours and I've already had this thought run through my mind, which is what sparked me to write this blog; spending time with my Dad.
When I'm home, I am spoiled with love, food, and anything else possible my parents can provide me with because they hate to see me leave (and likewise, I don't really enjoy telling them, "until next time"). On a more comical thought, when I'm home my parents spoil me each in their own ways without telling each other. I.e. They treat me out to lunch individually just to spend some time with me. As a matter of fact, today --my Dad took me out for lunch but said don't tell the rest of them (being, Mom & Bros); so you know things like that.

So today, I spent some quality time with my Dad while everyone was at work/school. I helped him put in the molding in the living & dining room, went to pick out a Christmas tree, ate lunch and cleaned the house. This whole day spent with him gave me one thought which sparked another, which has lead me to this blog.

I've heard from somewhere that women tend to fall for men like their fathers. I don't know how true it is or not, nor do I have enough relationship experience to say the same. However, I do know that the way my Dad treats me, is the way I would like a man to treat me, minus the fact that he treats me like the daughter I am to a father plus all the things he spoils me with (like the lunches, dinners and treats) because I can really do without it. I just know that when I'm with him, he appreciates the time I spend with him (whether it be at the grocery store, the car, at home etc.) and he constantly reminds me how much he loves and misses me when I'm gone. So he takes the opportunities he does have with me to show me. I know a large part of it is because I'm his only daughter but even if I had a sister, I think he would be the same. He's the youngest child to 5 sisters in his family; the man has got to know something about women.

I don't think of myself as the needy type in a relationship --in fact I tend to distance myself quite a bit (awkwardly enough, i just don't know how to be in a relationship). However, it's nice to know that a guy genuinely cares about you (enough to want to talk to you at real hours without being under any type of influence). I know people are busy, but the simplest things like asking how your day was, or saying "hello" and actually caring or meaning it without wanting something can actually say something about them. Just saying...

My Dad is the only man in my life that has ever made me truly happy. I always thought my parents were the complete opposite. I mean, I know they have their differences but then again they work well together as a team. And the by the way my Dad treats me, it's no wonder why my Mother fell in love with a man like him.

I don't really know what I'm getting at...I can keep writing for days about both of my parents. But I'll save that for other days. I just felt like putting this thought down in my blog because it intrigued me today. I guess the point is, I love my Dad because he is an amazing man. In fact, now that I think about it, my Dad is "the perfect man" but he's just not mine; he is my Moms.

& you know what, maybe I'm just tired of the guys that come and go because there hasn't been anyone good enough to stay.

at.

2004, Camp Kandalore

U W O YES

2010-11-25T16:43:00.006-05:00

Western, Western, Western.....brilliant.
I know everyone bashes our school, but whatever...screw you, hater. At times, I even make fun of our school. But the reality is:
Yes, I do go here and Yes, it is that fuckin awesome.
I know everyone says that about their school, but since this is my reality and my post secondary life (and I chose to be here)...how can I not be on this band wagon? UWO, thus far has made my University experience amazing and as a 3rd year, I hate thinking about leaving because it's that awesome here. UWO + everything that comes with being here (TCK)! you make my life pretty damn exciting.

Kudos to the Mustangs that made this, awesome.

HE'S BACK, HE'S BACK!

2010-11-14T15:49:00.005-05:00

My neighbour (he thinks he's a stud) went missing for a week, but he's back. Right now, he's beside me and keeps saying he's a 10, but he's not.
WELCOME BACK, CRAIG!

Congratulations for getting an entire blog devoted to you.

I look alright in this photo. Him, however..lay off the drinks. SOOOOO gone that night, he didn't even remember Calvin Harris; whack.

Hello 3rd Year!

2010-11-12T17:30:00.008-05:00

So, I know I haven't really been around, but it's because I've been insanely busy!
Since this blog was intended to document my University life, I guess I should update it on the happenings --as it's already November and trust me, a lot has happened!

Enter 3rd year, what has Alyssa been up to?

1. Ridiculously partying non-stop (as usual, what else is University about? Oh yeah, studying) In fact, this weekend is looking to be the first week(end) I'm not going out the bar and drinking; nice! Save some money and get some work done --that I really should.

2. Going to class! Yah, yah --be proud!

3. Involved in a few clubs here to keep myself busy and organized. Intramural Bball, Volunteering, Surf Club etc. --BY THE WAY, LOVING ALL OF THESE!!

4. Gym, for that regular exercise --stay healthy!

5. Library, to stay focused.

So, you see....if I'm not at home I could be found at the Gym, Bar, or Library.
The busier I am, the more organized I am. So, this year I've been trying to find a balance between a healthy life style. Let me tell you, it's tough. I'm trying really hard and I can see that it is somewhat paying off but I need to keep working at it. I've had/I will have my moments where I feel like I'm slipping, but I know I'll pick it up. I've been feeling really good about this year and I hope to keep the momentum going. It's nice to know that I'm a bit more responsible this year, haha!

Anyways, I should probably get back to my reading, YAY! for Friday night homework!! Time to get my nerd on, I've got a whole lot to get cracking on these next 2 weeks + exams in the next 4 --GOTTA LOVE UNIVERSITY!! (Lame)
I'll try pop in more frequently; I forgot how much I love this blog.

Hope everyone's still surviving, don't worry --the Holidays are just around the corner!

at.

POST SCRIPT: Here's a little snap shot of 3rd year (so far), and let me tell you 3rd year has been AMAZING thus far!

HOMECOMING: Wack --as usual!

CALVIN HARRIS CONCERT (with my neighbours) WAS HELLA DOPE!

Oct 28 Morning Surf Trip to Port Stanley!

Halloween 2010 -TMNT!

Ladies, Ladies, Ladies! We're always lookin Silly! <3'EM!

Volunteer @ Free Market / Bread & Soup Day, London ON (Amazing Community Experience, this was --'Tis the Season to Give!)

Good Music is Good Music

2010-10-25T21:01:00.002-04:00

I'm really feelin this video, and Chris Brown. I wish he could teach me how to dougie.

I Can't Get Enough of this Guy!!!

2010-10-25T20:54:00.002-04:00

LOOOOOLLLL!!!

Glad this guy has his shit together. He's got a commercial and I'm sitting around youtube surfing when I should probably be doing my paper, HAHA. This is some good stuff, I just can't get enough of him.

Wahhh

2010-09-12T16:29:00.003-04:00

I'm cranky & annoyed, but I don't know why. I feel like I have so much crap to do and to top it off, school starts tomorrow and I feel unprepared. Wahhhhh(snookie voice)

at.

Corporate Summer

2010-08-30T15:27:00.003-04:00

Alas, my summer has come to an end and to be completely honest, I'm excited to get back to school. This was quite a summer to remember, as it was the first time I've ever had a full time job and a the first time I've sat in an office and worked in the corporate world. Let me tell you, it was quite an experience. Going in, I had a bunch of mixed feelings because:
1) this is not my field of choice or expertise
2) it was a job, and i needed one.
3) I was not feelin the idea of waking up everyday at 6am for the next 3 months.
Nonetheless, went in with no other expectation than to gain experience and broaden my knowledge and I can actually say I'm leaving with that.

I got to experience the real corporate world. The highest of all highs --fancy events, all paid for events/lunches & dinner at 5 star restaurants etc. And even the lowest of all lows -- when hell hits the office and you don't even know what to do --but because it's the corporate mindset, business is business and everyone must carry on and keep moving forward; crazzy!
I even went through a phase this summer when I became extremely intrigued by the business world, and I'm not going to lie --I was starting to think how much further I could get if I just change a few things around by slowly switching into some business courses. But I quickly snapped out of it and realized, that's not really what I want to do. I was only thinking this because I was being swooned by all the fancy lunches and events I was going to, and who wouldn't be? It looked like a pretty good life, however it's not really mine --at least for now. I don't want to sell out of my long term plan and what i've been going to school for, just because I got this summer job and there is an easy route for me with Mom being in the field. Now going into my 3rd year, I'm not just going to waste the last 2 years of school and throw away my parents money just because --I've changed my mind after one summer in an office. Although, my Mom was very fond of the idea, she knew I wasn't going to do it, had to stick to my plan.

In the end, after this entire experience in the office, one last thing happened and it was like a sign from God; I swear. It just reminded me why I chose not to go to school for this. It's funny how things worked out in the end and I'm pretty thankful, i'd have to say.
I don't want to say, I'll never end up in an office --because who knows, they say a person goes through approximately 3-5 careers in their life time. As well, I picked up one of the most inspirational quotes at a work meeting this summer (ironically, during the time I was feeling high on business life).

It's never too late to be what you might have been -George Eliot
(this was very fitting at the time)

Nonetheless, going in as a blank slate, I've left with many pages to write about the experience as a whole and the wonderful, cool, easy going co-workers I got to hang out with everyday (oh, did they make it a lot easier for me to adjust and actually not mind coming in every single day). I sincerely thanked them for being so awesome. There's no way I would have lasted if they weren't the people they were.

at.

Note on the effect of working full time all summer: my internal body clock has gotten so used to waking up at 6am everyday, that "sleeping in" is now considered waking up at 9am, and I'm passing out by 11pm..i'm like an adult who has real responsibilities to wake up for. But really, I'm done all that work stuff and catching my 2 weeks of "vacation" ---and still waking up this early...for nothing really...except to live y'know. Whatever, can't wait for the riot September is about to bring. I need to party like a student should, I'm overdue on that note.

Late Ass, Summer Goals for 2010

2010-06-24T10:20:00.003-04:00

To begin, I'm working from home this week!! Due to the G20 summit & those avid protestors, thank you very much for providing my work with a reason to make their employees work from home this week! AWESOME.

But clearly, you can see how well this 'working' from home is going, I'm blogging. But funny note, right now:
- Mom is on a conference call working in her office beside me in the basement (because she has real work, unlike me --haha)

-I am sorta doing my work (my work stuff is open in some windows...y'know, just casually on blogger right now...

-Chris and Dad are cleaning the house right now....haha, how friggin hilarious is that? We are, our parents children...oh man...I'm actually going to join in the cleaning right after this. So I shouldn't laugh.

But anyways, last week--being my 3rd week into work, I’ve become somewhat used to it. The commute is still a bitch, but the days/weeks are going by faster now. I really enjoy being downtown TO, since the 8 months of the year, I’m in London. After all, if I didn’t go to UWO, I would have gone to U of T and being downtown would have been a part of my daily life. But thank God it is not, because I would not be able to handle the commute. Toronto is a beautiful city and I’ll enjoy my time here while I can.
Anyways, moving on to another topic --This blog is sort of long over due, but better late than never. In fact, I’ve been thinking about this list since the beginning of May, it was just a matter of what I can actually get done; realistically. This years New Years resolutions have been the biggest fail, by far. So I’m just going to ignore it and laugh at the fact that I was extremely ambitious, yet very lazy at the same time. Those are two characteristics that don’t work well together; lazy & ambitious. Insanely enough, I am both. But I’m working on cutting out the laziness when necessary.
So in all honesty and with as much determination and ambition that one can have, here are my goals for the summer of 2010.

1.Budget/ save $ for:
-Studying in Spain
-Another vacation next year with my bfffl.
-School year

2. Get in shape! (I always say this, but this time…I have the time, thus it shall be utilized!)
-exercise 3x a week (baseball is one day, so 2 days of something else, anything!)

3. Practice Spanish, review notes & study. Understand anything I’m confused about. So come Sept, hopefully I’m not too rusty and it won’t be crazy-difficult to get back into the swing of things.

That is all!

I know there are only 3, but like I said in my (joke of a) New Year’s blog, “short but difficult to actually do.” To sum up my goals, it’s all about self discipline –which is probably the invisible goal #4. If I can actually cross these 3 things off, there is goal #4 (self discipline) accomplished right there and I’m set.

I really tried to make these goals as realistic as possible, providing the fact that I now know my schedule and what I’m actually capable of. I feel really set on these goals and driven to accomplish them by the end of the summer. So hopefully, I can pull this one through *fingers crossed*

These are just my goals for the summer. I’ll come back with a recap on how I did and a new blog about goals for the school year in September! (oh boy, that will be a great one…) I figured, making goals for specific things might be better then general goals like New Years resolutions, only because the time frame is so large. So we will see how I do.

Btw, current events? --Earthquake in TO, Tornado warning last night (no tornado in the durham region, but that was one hell of a storm, i must say)and insane G20 Summit Security Hype. What the hell is going on.

Time to clean. Oh yeah..I'm 20 tomorrow.....
WEEKEND IS LOOKINNNN HYPE, PARTY IN LONDON, helllzz yeah.

at.

Reality

2010-06-06T11:06:00.002-04:00

This week, I finally started work at my full time summer job downtown Toronto and so far it’s not bad. Work is work, y’know, it’s hard to hate when you’re getting paid, the work isn’t even that tough and of course, it’s a job –which I know is quite a challenge to find now a days. But, because it still is a job --there are a few things that I have come to realize just within the first 2-3 days.

1. I hate the commute, and I knew I would (also why I knew I couldn’t stay at home for school)
I get up every morning at 6am, catch the 7:06 express to Union, walk 15mins to work, and I’m in the office by 8am.

2. I'm much busier than I thought. In a way, it's nice because I don't find myself bored as often anymore, but it's crazy. Two nights a week, I have baseball. As soon as I get off from work, I hop on the train –get home around 5:30, change, grab a drink and snack and I’m out of the house by 6pm for my game which ends at around 8:30. Wednesday nights, it’s even worse, because practice follows the game. So I don’t get home until almost 10pm those nights. Basically, on Monday’s and Wednesday’s after baseball, I shower and sleep because I have to get up early in the morning and I’m not a morning person. In fact, I’m not the kind of person to leave my room/bed. I like to sleep and I’m probably one of the laziest people you may come across if you get to know me really well, and that’s really well. For example, the peeps I live with, just ask my friends.

3. I have a crazy feeling that I don’t quite want to grow up just yet. This was kind of a big week for me in understanding and realizing things. My Parents went on vacation, so it was just myself and the bros home all week. With having a younger brother to still look after, it's been interesting. I'm not home much for most of the year, so I don't really see how things run over here with him. But having to check his homework and make sure that it's complete and ensure that his lunch is prepared for the next day and house is locked etc. has been quite a job, on top of my actual 8-4 job. I'm very thankful for the nights that Chris made dinner and the nights I went to my cousins, everyone's lookin' out. I actually understand what it's like to be a parent --it is really hard. And no wonder my parents went on vacation --they need it and deserve it! Also, they haven't gone on a vacation as just the two of them for probably 20 or more years. So, good for them. Having my brothers and I as their children, being the busiest bees --I'm not sure how they did it and I completely respect them for it. For this reason, I'm definitely going to enjoy my life like this. Very simple, with not too many worries and responsibilities. I'm good like this, old enough to make my own decisions and do what I want, but it's all weighed down on me. But still young enough to not have too many huge responsibilities. At 19-20, life is pretty simple/good as the year gets broken down with school,work,vacation,friends. EASSSYYY.

4. Don't forget to appreciate the little things in life. Since I've had a crazy-busy week, I was constantly stressed on what's next, because there was always a next --and no time to rest. I found myself forgetting to appreciate the little things. I happened to walk into Indigo this week after work and I intended to pick up a book to read, but found out it wasn't in stock and it will be coming back out at the end of the month due to a book cover change. So, I walked around and came across one of the Employee's Pick of the month titled, "The Book of Awesome" by Neil Pasricha. And it's all about the little things on life that we love but forget how much fun they are or how happy they make us feel. I've started reading it and it's such a great read and I think it's just the thing I need whilst being extremely busy.

It's been an interesting week, but my weekend made up for it. Spontaneous-ness with 2 chicas of the core. Efffin' loved it. That is really what I needed and a sick way to start my weekend. But as the weekend is coming to an end, I'm ready to pick up my parents at the airport and have them home! 3 hours and they're back!

at.

Crossing off # 30 & 41!

2010-05-22T22:14:00.012-04:00

It isn't even half way through the year and I'm crossing things off much faster than expected! and even 2 at a time! So no complaint over here! Just last week, I was out on the West coast in beautiful British Columbia amidst the mountains of Whistler, in which I was able to cross off 2 more activities on my 'life list'! Zip-lining and Bungee Jumping! Those two activities were quite exhilarating and so much fun!!

#30: Go Zip Lining! [CHECK!]
In the beautiful forest of Whistler, I experienced a rather fun and challenging activity. I decided to accompany my younger brother on this "Aerial Monkido Adventure Course" which entailed 2 hours in the forest, harnessed up in the trees climbing, crawling, A LOT of balancing, zip lining and a whole lot more from tree to tree. As tough as it was, I was able to get through it pretty well and I even kept up with my speedy brother who was just zooming through all of the obstacles. It was quite a challenge and turned out to be a great work-out, seeing as...the following 2 days, Mine and Ray's abs were killing! My favourite part was clearly the zip lining, mainly because it was the fastest and easiest way to get from tree to tree, when it was an option! (plus, WOOO! I can cross that off!) The other times, I had to endure the challenges of balancing and what not to get across. It was a really cool and fun course, sometime I'd definitely be open to doing again...if I'm in good enough shape, that is (haha)! This, I recommend, for the adventurous and/or the athletic type! They've got a few locations out in BC, I specifically went to the one in Whistler, which I found, wonderful :)
http://www.wildplay.com/

"Walking the Line"

Ray zipping away, and I'm up next (don't exactly have one of me zipping unfortunately, so this will have to suffice)

#41: Go Bungee Jumping! [CHECK!]
As many times as I've told people how it felt, I could never actually explain it! It's a completely intense and crazy feeling, and that is what I call an ultimate adrenaline rush. Gee, Whistler Bungee wasn't kidding when they advertised it as their slogan. I thought the adrenaline I got from scoring a try in rugby, or hitting a homer in baseball or scoring off a good steal/fast break in basketball got me pumped and hyped on adrenaline, but it wasn't as much as what Bungee Jumping did to me! By far, that is a real adrenaline rush. I loved it and would do so do it again! And I recommend Whistler Bungee for anyone who wants to try! It's very well known and extremely safe! Through all the thoughts racing in my mind at that time, surprisingly, safety wasn't one of them because I felt very safe when they harnessed me. So if you want to give it a try and get some adrenaline, or even if you're looking for something to do while in Whistler, check it out! They operate all year round! http://www.whistlerbungee.com/

"Feet at the edge please"

As ready and could be

5,4,3,2,1
.
.
.
Go!

Soaring!

Here's the video. Note: I tried screaming on the way down, but nothing came out! It wasn't until I recoiled when my scream was released. You'll see. It sounds like I had a madly delayed reaction, haha!

What an experience! "Whistler Bungee, Whistler's Ultimate Adrenaline Rush" ---hellz yeah it is!

Since I have already checked off 4 things from my list this year, and half of the year isn't even done yet, it makes me wonder what the rest/second half of the year has in store for me. Thinking right now, probably nothing, but that's okay. Seeing as I've had my fun already, now it's time to work and save money again in order for me to continue crossing things off my list next year. Mom always says, "Work hard, Play hard". I already did my playing and I suppose it is now time for working. It's okay, hard work shall be rewarded in time.

at.

2 More

2010-04-29T02:59:00.007-04:00

Second last night of studying hell and I will be liberated of my educational duties for 4 months. Amazing! I'm so excited. Honestly though, my mind has already been on vacation. I've been forcing myself to study the past 24 hours and I have another 48 more to go. Shitty as hell that I'm the last one to finish. But I guess that will make my friday night much more exciting because i'll feel so free, nothing's gunna stop me. I'm going to feel so hyped up, I won't even be able to contain it (Sorry in advance to any of my friends who will have to deal with my craziness).
I just spent 7pm-3am at the library and shoved as much American History in my brain as possible, yet i'm still completely wide awake.

As the night dragged on, my focus began to shift and my breaks got pretty ridiculous.
At 11:30 pm, I was sitting in my cubicle on the second floor, eating a Lunchables Pizza which I thought was pepperoni, but turns out I picked up the "two cheese" kit. So that was a bit of a downer. Regardless, the lunchable was so good. I haven't had that since....elementary school obviously. Even then, my parents wouldn't buy it for me because it wasn't "healthy". Well, screw that. It was my evening snack at the library today and it tasted hella good. And the little Hershey Nugget it came with, DELICIOUS! Just a nice fun snack to keep the study juice goin, with a side of a fruit smoothie --now that's healthy!
Then, the 2 fools I went to the library with kept distracting me even though I sat away from them, but in all fairness --I was probably just as distracting to them.
One other break (probably at around 1am) entailed jumping jacks, lunges and toy soldier kicks in the empty part of the library. I noticed this other guy peeking over the cubicle looking at us...probably wondering wtf are they doing?! and shut the hell up! ...yeah....sorry about that, dude.
Lastly, ended up taking some fun pictures with my BB, which would probably sum up my studying adventure today. Thank God for my BB, as it's there for all the good times that I don't have a camera on me.
As much as I hate exams and studying, I still love University life. There are just too many fiasco's going on; It's truly something else. 48 hours and goodbye 2nd year :)

These add to the moments that I will probably not forget in these University years:
(1)

Not to worry, you are beautiful in so many ways
A little cool, inspirational message put together on the railing beside my cubicle. (Cardinal Carter Library, King's UWO)

(2)

Two Fools I went to the Lib with, that are not studying. But I guess I'm not either..since I snapped this picture.

(3)

Guy sitting in cubicle behind me, I sorta kept making fun of because I was so bored. I thought he was sleeping, then I snapped this photo and Tray said he wasn't. Hmmmmm......oh well. My good 'ol library friend he was.

Good Luck to anyone else who still has exams.
Oh wait, I might be the only one(Sonofabish). I envy thee, who are already soaking in summer vacation. Neighbours are having their end of the year party/kegger and I can hear them, I'm jealous. It's okay I guess, i'm finding new hobbies indoors at the library, right? haha, yeahh...sure. Just 2 more days of this crap and it's on the shelf until September.

at.

HAHA!

2010-04-06T09:27:00.003-04:00

One night, Court & I were being lazy dumb asses and did not want to get out of our beds to close our bedroom doors before going to sleep. So instead we continued to talk to each other until we got the urge to get out and close them.
Instead, we start talking about how we wish there was a spell that would close doors for us (yes, because we're that lazy...and really into these intellectual conversations, y'know?)
That then led to me googling something along the lines of, "Magic spell for closing doors" I know, it's really ridiculous, because now I started getting into it, as if it was a real phenomenon. But whatever, story doesn't end there.

I came across one of those yahoo answer forums. I know they aren't so legit --but in this case, what legitimacy am i really looking for?

The question/topic of this forum was, Does magic open doors? I bought a spell book but i don't know if it opens doors. Thanks!!!?

(Not quite, what i was looking for...but I continued to read on because it was quite comical). Take a look at these replies:

1. It depends if its black magic then ANYTHING is possible

2. What you need to do is leave more detail in your questions by saying (but i don't know if it opens doors) nobody here knew that you meant. To keep demons out that would be your fault because you did not explain your self try not to be a jerk your self in tell people to keep there mouths shut you don't rule nobody here at y!a all ways remember that.

*(The person who asked the question then came back with additional details to their question and wrote):
BY DOORS I MEAN TO LET BAD THINGS IN YOUR HOUSE. P.S. THERE IS NO NEED FOR YOU GYS TO BE JERKS AND SAY STUPID STUFF IF YOU DON'T KNOW THE ANSWER KEEP YOU MOUTH SHUT!

HAHA, talk about intense e-beef over Magic. More answers:

3. Did you read it in your book of spells you got
well you didnt even tell us the name of the books so we don't know
And shure magick open doors in your mind
You want some real books on magick chech this store out
//stores.shop.ebay.com/booksofsalamand…

4. Here is a spell i find helpful:
knock on door three times, or ring the doorbell. if someone is inside the home this spell will compel them to open the door for you. to get them to allow you inside there is a verbal component to the spell. the magic word is "please"

5. When in doubt "Draw a door".
by the way, remember this about magic. the door knob works too

6. Not sure about opening doors, but there's a spell in the harry potter series that unlocks doors, which is "alohomora"

7. No but you have hands and keys for that... use magic for the good stuff

8. Damn your lazy

4,7, & 8 were my favourite. Haha, as if i came across this....funny things you can find on the internet.
After this, we closed our doors....with MAGIC........
by using reply number 6, hands. haha

Crossing off # 8 & 12!

2010-03-28T16:57:00.008-04:00

I know it's been a while, and of course it's due to school work. I've been wanting to get this blog down, but I really haven't had the time. In fact, I've become so lazy to write because all of the essays that I've been writing and it's been sucking the creativity out of me. So here it goes, before I get even lazier. THE MOST EPIC TRIP EVER: TORONTO-NEW YORK-PUERTO RICO

February 14-20, 2010: Marks the week that my best friend and I finally did what we have been talking about doing since, we were what? 16?. Take a trip to a hot place! In fact, last year --we created a list of things to do in life and I can officially cross off numbers 8 and 12.
8: Go to NYC, Manhattan! (Time Square)
12: Learn how to surf! (Went to Rincon, Puerto Rico)

Initially, NYC was not part of the plan. But due to insane plane malfunctions, we got a free night in Jersey (eww) BUT a full day in Manhattan & first class seats to PR. Coming back home was a huge bitch too. We almost missed out flight because, well Continental Airlines fucked us over. Long story --in the end, there were only 2 seats left on that plane headin home and if we missed it, we would have to wait until the next day (and that, we could NOT do). In fact, the only 2 seats left were first class seats, so yet again --First Class seats heading home. It was probably the best thing ever, seeing as we were extremely hung over at that point... something like 7am. Good times, good times.

Time!

As for the week in Rincon, Puerto Rico. It was so much fun! From the surfing, to our fav. restaurant -tapas, to the drunken nights & poor decision making (first & last night.. actually. Talk about rule breakers!), to the people we met and of course, chillin on the beach like there's no tomorrow. It was amazing. No one else will ever even understand how sick this trip was. I can't even wrap my head around how wicked it was, especially the random trip to Manhattan. While we were there, we were still trying to grasp the fact that....DUDE WE'RE IN NYC!!!

Board & Stuff

Sammy, Myself & Enda (Our surf instructor)

Mike & Drew , sickest bar tenders around @ Casa Verde, Rock Bottom!

I really miss it, especially now that I'm back in this hell hole of school --which apparently you must pay to go here. Bull Shit, as if my misery is paid for. But whatever, apparently I need this piece of paper called a diploma to make something of myself in this world. So, 2 more years and I'm out!

But back to the trip. We went through so many obstacles dealing with the airlines and crap, it was unbelievable. Yet, we knew that of course shit like that would happen to us, especially on our first trip. The 2 jokesters that can't even take each other seriously, end up having to deal with real adult problems without actual adults fixing it for us. So good for us! I must say, i'm proud. Haha, it just proved that we were responsible enough to deal with these unforeseen situations and I would have to say that we've earned the trust of our parents (who were relentless in the beginning, but I don't blame them, with us being their kids). So, in the end --what all this really was, was...the beginning to a whole lot more adventurous, shenanigans. I can't even wait. This is really what its like to be 19, and have freedom eh? Hella good, I'd say. Hella good.

at

Sophomore Slump

2010-03-12T10:57:00.005-05:00

A sophomore slump or sophomore jinx refers to an instance in which a second, or sophomore, effort fails to live up to the standards of the first effort. It is commonly used to refer to the apathy of students (second year of college or university)the performance of athletes (second season of play), bands (sophomore album), television shows (second seasons) and movies (sequels/prequels).

-As stated on Wikipedia

That is, what's up. I'm definitely sitting in that group right about now.
I've lost interest in school and I just want to get the hell out, but of course --that still entails 2 more years. I just want to finish this semester and move on. I'll figure the rest out later.
My life needs some revamping.

at.

Post Script, check out my bfffl's recent post @ Bish Please!,(it is relative to this) Here's a link: "Creativity Gone".

Cabbie & Kobe

2010-01-27T21:39:00.002-05:00

Hello Canada from Kobe Bryant, via "Cabbie" Richards.
haha! This is why Cabbie is so awesome.

hella jokes.

at.

Resolutions Anyone?

2010-01-04T22:50:00.005-05:00

Ahh, and now it's time to write about my New Year Resolutions!...
I decided that coming up with an exhausting list of things to accomplish for the year would be boring and I would probably not even get them done. Instead, I've come up with a short list of reasonable things to do. They may sound easy, but really --for me, they're quite a challenge to start and then maintain. I think that once I get going on each of the things and jump into a routine, it should be a piece of cake. So, here they are:

1. Go to class! and minimize Thursday night outings (you have no idea how many Friday classes I've missed...and let me tell you, I just about broke even with the amount I went to...) Alyssa: you're weekend starts Friday, not Thursday.
2. Go to the gym -minimum twice a week. Plus physio-that should keep me exercising 3 times a week. Good enough to start, if I can get the routine started, hopefully i can increase the days.
3. Go back to, no more eating after 8pm! weekends or outings will be acceptable. But indulging in purpose late night fast food runs due to boredum and craving (especially here at school....roomies--you know what that's about) has to stop.
4. Try harder in school, which includes doing readings, so that class participation increases.
5. Get a job and save money for another adventure and real future stuff.

So there they are. Those are 5 solid resolutions for the year 2010. Some may laugh at my resolutions, but they gotta be done and with a new year should come a new routine for me. They are all definitely manageable though. I figured, if I work hard individually at these 5 tasks, they will be done, and accomplished very well.
Anyways, good luck to me.

Q: What are your resolutions?

at.

Let's Reflect...

2009-12-31T18:04:00.002-05:00

Looks like we're off to a new year, once again. Peace out 2009, and welcome 2010. This is crazy to believe that yet, another year is over. When I look back at the year, I can barely recap what had gone on, but when i dig deeper, it's hard to believe that everything this year has already happened. I don't even know where to begin. If I was to rundown all of the amazing things that had gone on this year, I'm sure I would still miss out a bunch of things, so I'm not even going to bother.
Instead I've decided to come up with 4 grateful things of 2009 and they are as follows:
1. ACL surgery! (As much of a bitch did that cause me, I waited a year for that, and I'm back at par. So glad to have gotten that done and over with and get myself active and out again!)
2. Completing first year University. I'm glad I survived, but I guess my challenge is completing all 4 years now!
3. I'm thankful for another healthy year for my family :)
4. Thankful for my good friends, who take care of me...I swear to God in Sickness and in Health.
So, as this year comes to an end in 6 hours (EST). I again, would like to welcome in the new year of 2010, which I'm sure will bring much more excitement and fun. To begin with, Trip Numero Uno with Sammy is set off to Puerto Rico in February, to finally cross off one thing off my list! --Learn how to surf. I'm so excited!
I'm tellin ya, 2010 is lookin to be hella good.
I hope for another healthy, and prosperous year with the Family and I wish the same too all!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!

I'll be back with, less reflection and more determination next blog :)

at.

Hello Holidays!

2009-12-23T00:08:00.006-05:00

December 18, 4:30 pm marked the time that I was officially liberated of my duties as a student! (for term 1). It took long enough, and I'm finally here sitting around at home with nothing to do. It feels so nice to get those exams out of the way and finally come home for the holidays, which everyone has been going crazy about the past few weeks! (While i've been indoors studying). I finally feel the chill of doing nothing, but I'm sort of bored...ahh well.
My November blogs haven't really been the most exciting --mainly just me complaining, but As for December, this is a jolly month and there is a lot to be excited about. This is actually my first blog of December --late, I know. I didn't want to write earlier because I couldn't think of anything nice to say...haha, because for the first 2 weeks of December I was basically bitching and complaining about school. So I decided to leave that grinchy part out of the December blogosphere. It's all good thoughts for the month of December though!
I don't even know where to begin.
Christmas is coming so fast, I'm literally running out of time each day. I got all of my extremely last-minute christmas shopping done within 3 days, so Kudos to me on that note, and today Sammy and I officially booked our trip to PR for reading week! --That, I am insanely pumped for and I can barely describe that. It drives me crazy thinking that we actually are pulling this through! So that's a huge thing to look forward to (52 days!) I've probably forked up enough money within the past few days, shopping and trip booking...something such as my bank account tells me that I should probably find a job in the new year, haha!
I guess that will be something to put on the to do list for 2010 (probably in a blog within the next week or so).
Sadly, this is all I got for this blog. I'm surprisingly not filled with much to say at the moment. But I do know that since it is the holidays, my plans for the next few days include:
1. Watch christmas movies!! Pullin' out the VHS for all those old school xmas movies from my childhood! (Mickey Mouse Christmas!) Also, watch Friends...endlessly! because I have all the time in the world to and it is my favourite show. Never sick of it!
2. Sip on that Hot Chocolate, cuz it keeps me warm :)
3. Lounge around in my christmas pajamas! --along with some reading in between there :) (Though it is the break, I still want to keep up with readings!)
4. Bake Cookies!!
5. Pick up the last few things and then wrap gifts!
6. Hit up the Pascal's for Christmas eve
7. Church, since I've been brought up Catholic, y'know what it is. HB JESUS!
8. "Tanker" Family Christmas Party, Dinner, Feast, Fiesta, Extravaganza (Whatever you wanna call our huge gathering) at home!
9. Delfin Christmas party on boxing day.
10. Chillax, and I'm sure stuff will come up along the way. I know the science centre and King Tut museum is tentative for the next week with the familia --So I look forward to that :) Always love educational family time!

*On a serious and ambitious note, my holiday to do list:
-Finish Capitulo 11 for Spanish
-Read Latin American History Readings
-Go over EURO/LAT AM assignments for the upcoming year
*Getting ahead..or at least being on par is key.

I gotta say, Holidays are pretty nice.
Happy Holidays to all!

at.

Running low on holiday fuel

2009-11-30T01:48:00.003-05:00

2am Monday morning. I'm definitely still up working on my last essay of the year, then onwards to studying for exams...
I've been on some serious homework mode the last 24 hours, but as of right now --I'm so tired of writing. It's not that I'm physically tired; I'm mentally tired! I just spewed out an essay worth 45% of my grade for Research Methods (which by the way, is such a waste class) and my brain is burnt out. Unfortunately, I'm only on page 6 of this current American History essay I'm working on and I need another 5 more pages (womp!). This is a rough night, that's also why I've decided to take a break (probably my 3rd within the last 3 hours..) and just blog.

I noticed that my most recent blogs have basically been about me bitching and complaining about something, whether it be something along the lines of weather, LTC or this particular essay business. But really --I guess all I can say is, this is Novemeber for me. This entire month, every single week, there has been some kind of assignment due and as of right now...I told you, I'M TIRED.
As of tomorrow when I hand in this final essay, it will be bittersweet.
I'm done with essays for the remainder of the year (really, just a month) but then I must start studying for my exams immediately :/
Tonight, I finally busted out the Kenny G christmas tunes because I finally acquired it from Derelicte, and as homey and soothing as it sounded --it also made me realize how much I sort of do hate this time of the year though it's Christmas.
I do enjoy the holidays of course, but there's always this grinch inside of me because I'm so wrapped up in my school work that I don't even have time to think about Christmas. It's like christmas is shoved on the back burner because school is my first priority at the moment. Meanwhile, everyone has started their Christmas shopping --some maybe even done.
I don't get home until December 19, so realistically...my Christmas season starts then because I'm ridden of all these educational thoughts. By the time I get home, everyone is basically done their Christmas shopping and I, have not started. There fore, stuck to do insane last minute shopping -in which I HATE. That, and one other injustice reason (which I will not get into at the moment --save that for another day) is what puts a dent into my holiday and I don't feel as hyped up as everyone else...because I'm burnt out from always being on the go. From the constant assignments to exams and then to crazy shopping, by the the time Christmas is here...I'm burn out, because everything is such a rush.

This also correlates to my blog earlier about not knowing how to feel around this time of the year. This is mainly the problem. What comes first, school or holiday?
Clearly, school. But it kills my holiday.
Don't think I'm a real Grinch or anything, because when I do get home for the holidays I'm all into the spirit because of the decor and being home watching movies, chillin with the fam and baking etc. but it sucks that...I get into it SO LATE, therefore so rushed and so quick..BAM ITS OVER.
I'm just saying....as a University kid, this is what my holiday has turned into.
I'm not sure how it is for everyone else, but school makes it hard for me to enjoy the holidays.

(Alright, enough complaining for the night --back to work I go)

at.

Screw you LTC

2009-11-25T22:12:00.002-05:00

Okay, that's it!
If the weather is going to be this crappy and rainy, LTC please refund my fucking bus pass and give me my (aka my Mom's) money back!
I do not enjoy walking to/from school in this shitty rainy weather. If there was snow, there would be less complaining on my end. But there isn't, so this is what I got.

HMPHH!

at.

Uhmm....sNOw?

2009-11-24T22:47:00.005-05:00

I just wanted to know,
Where the hell is the snow?
It's November 24 and there is no snow. The most I've seen is the frost on my neighbors roofs in the early morning. I'm especially disappointed in London! This is the motherfuckin' snow belt and last year we had real snow (like REAL packing snow) before Halloween! Next week is December and...the rest of this week is looking to be quite damp, shitty.

*Sidebar: Ironically, with the whole London Transit Strike going on, the warmer weather has been a treat since walking to school is now a daily routine. But still, I enjoy walking in the snow once in a while --especially at this time of the year because it's pretty and the snow isn't just a crazy blizzard all up in my face.

I'm just sayin, I'd like some snow please.

at.

Here we go Yo!

2009-11-14T02:18:00.004-05:00

IT'S CHRISTMAS!!!!
Not really, but if you go to the malls, you would get the point. I can't believe it's already November 14th. Honestly, everything --more so as in school, is going by so fast and this month is already flying by! I don't even know what to think. I do know though, that I am starting to crunch down on the school work (FINALLY, for those who knew about my mad slack issue the past month, we could all agree this is awesome news for me). Just gotta get through this crazy mid term and essay tunnel and I'm good to go.

But seriously, I'm still extremely shocked at the idea that we are basically at mid November. I don't even know what happened to the year?! It's basically Christmas time! (In fact, I've already got my christmas tunes bumpin' on the ihome. Currently; some michael buble, nsync, mariah carey. Y'know, the kind of stuff i listen to this time around of the year. I tried to get some Kenny G on the playlist, but I could not find my Dad's CD when I went home, so that will have to wait)

This time of the year actually has me feeling like I'm at the edge of my seat, just about a whole bunch of things. Part of it is the adrenaline I get from the Christmas/holiday season with the malls all decked up and shopping is all started. And the other part of it is the fact that, before I even get way over my head into the whole Christmas Holiday spirit, I still have so much work to do; like mid terms and papers. It's like the end is so near, yet so far! This is also the long drought for me to coming home (something like 6 weeks), so I'm just about ready to burst at the end of exams and get home ASAP! So I have all of these mixed feelings at this time of the year, because I don't know how to feel!? Sometimes I'm all in Holiday fun, but the other times it's like, I gotta stop prancing around this Christmas business and start focusing on school work.

The house here is already decorated, because the mujeras and I got into the spirit --which may have included an 11 PM trip to Wal-Mart. That definitely put me more in the mood for Christmas, but it also reminded me of how much it sucks this year that I'm not even going to be home to decorate the house or pick the tree with the familia! Because I'm STUCK HERE WITH LOADS OF WORK TO DO, it is impossible to come home before Dec 19th. --That, I am not happy about at ALL. But, I will have to deal with it.

So, here we go again; this time of the year is here! Filled with holiday excitement and school stress. I am ready to tackle it (I think...)

Ps. I HAVEN'T BEEN THIS EXCITED FOR THE HOLIDAYS (CHRISTMAS)SINCE GRADE 11 (so 2 years ago now) SOOOO LETT IT SNOWWWW! I AM READY FOR SOME HOLIDAY CHEEER! =D

at.

Shame On Me

2009-11-02T21:50:00.003-05:00

I am ashamed, embarrassed, pissed, sad, disappointed etc. of how lazy I am being with school. I don't even know how to explain it, I just know that it hit me and I'm not pleased with it.
In terms of marks, I'm not too sure how things will turn out because I haven't gotten too many back, but for the one that I did receive --I wasn't that impressed. I could have done much better if I applied myself and maybe did my work a lot earlier. I found a bit of an outlet that made me feel not so bad about that mark, but nonetheless it's not an excuse. I should have done better.
I ~~think~~ know I've been having way too much fun and it seems like I'm not buckling down. It's already November 2nd and school is about to hit me smack dead in the face with assignments and mid terms this month; and I'm thinkin --I should really get down to work and get my shit together. I've actually been saying that the last 2 weeks, turns out, these were the worst 2 week of my educational career thus far. It really all just started with a crappy trip to the hospital which killed 2 days of my education time (which put me a little behind) but then, I've really just been fooling around and leaving things to last minute when I could have gotten them done and I've officially screwed up my sleep schedule (*mental note, never ever pull an all nighter again --because it screws me real bad & 5am yoga, probably not that necessary --though it did help with the stress relieving).
I really have no one else to blame except for myself because it's all up to me on how well I want to do in school. It sucks in a way that I have nothing else to blame it on, but I suppose that's a lesson for myself.
So here it is... remember this for next time, DO YOUR EFFFING WORK ALYSSA.
or else, you'll end up with..
All nighters that fuck up you up for at least a good 2 weeks and you end up missing classes because you're way too tired.

Time to get down to the nitty gritty.
at.

Back Track

2009-09-29T22:38:00.003-04:00

So, as I was cruising through my older blog posts, I figured I'd write this one in response to the past one; short term list (my summer to do list) Let's take a look at what I did or did not do:
(*to do with sammy)

1. Bike the boardwalk again :)! *
2. ~~Save $ for trip!! (while working!)~~
3. Hit the batting cage *
4. ~~Read a book or 2! (let's not be too ambitious here, we'll hope for a completion of at least one!)~~ ---I read one! the Little Prince, though it's the tiniest book ever, it's still a book and it counts as ONE!.

5. yoga * --but not with sammy :(
6. Go to that Port Restaurant... NOPE
7. Playing with my guitar once again SORTA
8. Paint my toe nails :) * ...again, not with sammy :( but know I did feel guilty sitting on my deck doing them alone..
9. ~~Try and keep spanish speaking mentality going, in order to survive school...~~ not bad :)

7/9, pretty good.

So, my summer list; not so exhausting but I did get quite a few things accomplished. I'm a little surprised though, I thought I had more. But I guess I didn't? Just as well, I prob would not have done them anyways, Hahaha. Not as many things done as I hoped with the best friend, but seeing as she'll be taking a visit down here in London town this weekend --we intend on making up for all lost time during the summer. Gotta do it up. My summer was full of post op. Now, It's time to party up.

But on the post op (& reminiscing) note, I found these entries quite funny.
May 5, 2009 (this is just a paragraph...)
"I literally woke up this morning saying, Shit --It's already Tuesday. 24 hours from now I'll be preparing myself for surgery.
Though, I have a long paved road of recovery and physio ahead of me this summer. I'm hoping it will go by quicker and I won't let this stop me from doing all the fun things I intend on accomplishing this summer. I'm already used to not playing sports during the summer months. So that's one thing down. For now, I guess I just have to get this done. Live and learn with life. I'll keep things optimistic. I know I will bitch and complain soon enough, but in the end, I won't let it stop the fun. "
*noticed what I underlined...now,

May 7, 2009
"I had some other stuff written down here before, but I realized --it wasn't good enough and it didn't explain it in literal terms. So, let me re write that.
IT HURTS! IT HURTS LIKE A MF'N BIOTCH.
I thought before this, my pain tolerance was descent, given my past injuries and excruciating teeth pulling + braces when I was younger. I still hate needles, hence I opted for no Epidural in this process and I thought the IV was enough, BUT NOW, I'M SO SURE THAT I HAVE A VERY HIGH TOLERANCE FOR PAIN. AS IN, VERY HIGH/EXCELLENT. (Not okay, good or great, it's at excellent)
I WANT THESE STAPLES OUT OF MY LEG NOW."

*Well, that didn't take me long to bitch out. 2 days later. In fact, the first was written the day before surgery, the second was the day after. HAHAHAHAHAHA, i'm ridiculous...well story of my life.

That's all I got for now, I gotta get on this reading business...I actually told my hombres I went up to read --i'm not. I'm here doing this. And Court, if you read this....I can hear you rolling around on your chair...y'know (:

at.

Just Sayin....

2009-09-23T21:51:00.006-04:00

If you haven't watched the HIMYM (How I Met Your Mother ---for you noobs) Season premier....one word for you, FOOL!
Just sayin....

also,

Another wicked sitcom you may wanna check out. New this season;, the pilot was pretty good & it came on right after HIMYM--it's called accidentally on purpose. Just sayin...

a.

Ohh London.....

2009-09-15T20:40:00.011-04:00

September it is and everyone's back to reality. Yay for schoool...not.
I've been excited to come back this year seeing as I'm in a house with some friends and I've already experienced first year. Already, the first week has been quite interesting. We didn't get internet until yesterday actually. Stupid Rogers screwed us over and missed our appointment last week, so I've been out of the loop! and that's why this entry is coming in now. Anyway's I've decided to document this rather interesting first week here in the sherwood house of L town with these 4 wicked goons :)
Just a break down how the first week back has been:

1.No internet for a week, It wasn't that bad...but for some *EHHMMM CB, it was crazy. I didn't start getting angry until Sunday night when I knew I was really bored and I needed to check things for my classes and I couldn't!!

2. No internet also meant, no cable. Therefore, constantly watching How I Met Your Mother Seasons w/ my hombres..on our cableless television.

3.Frantic and unorganized grocery shopping trip in which we were always blocking the aisles with our overfilled carts.

4. First day of school --I had to run for the bus, then I couldn't figure out where my classes were..well If i had INTERNET before, I would have known....

5. Some pre drink while driving at 12 noon...in Tray's car...at a gas station..

6. Football Home-opener, Western vs. Laurier (W 30-7) hollllaaa!

7. Burnt and tanned as if we went to Cuba. + the unbelievable moment I took my sunglasses off when I got home and realized I got a sun glass tan. FML

8. Spontaneous decision to go out..and then wait forever in line at Tap House, but end up at Winks...then Mcdonalds?! yess...Mcdonalds..

9. Discovering that the 2nd floor of our house (where CB, LD & I's rooms are) is...wait for it..........................................CROOKED. Yes, it's crooked.

10. The ceiling in our kitchen is leaking...because of our shower upstairs. Our landlords in Florida..she'll be back on Thurs. haha

11. HOW AM I ALREADY BEHIND IN READINGS?! ....well I somehow am...probably because I didn't bother to get my books until Sunday. But now I have to bust my ass and get reading..I should be doing that now actually, but I'll do it later. I'll be caught up by this weekend, promise :)

12. Rogers cable guy hitting his head SOOOO HARDDDD on our basement ceiling. DAAMMNNNN that was hella funny. I still laugh pretty hard every time I picture it in my head.

13. Watching racoons and skunks eating our garbage...

14. Cantaloupe & Watermelon gone bad....yet we continue to eat it, debating if it is bad or not? --It's bad. I finished all the cantaloupe anyways...it was tingly.

15. Shoving food in the oven because it seems convenient to cook all our meals together. Oven malfunction? what? SMOKE EVERYWHERE..great; our neighbors can see us going crazy too, fanning the shit out of everything and opening all doors. Step outside. We hear their smoke detector go off. Sounds like we're not the only ones screwing up our meals in the kitchen. haha --you gotta love university students.

16. Whistling tap in Dowisetrepla.

There's 16 pretty solid moments I've covered for the first week I think. I know there's so much more to come. With us 5 goons in this house, it's sort of general knowledge. It's nice to be back...i've been refreshed of what I'm like and how much I do actually enjoy being here. I still miss home and my parents of course, but it's cool --I got things covered here. School and chillin ya know, I'm learning a lot with out them.. and appreciating them a lot more all over again! So, in other words, it's nice. Oh wait, I need a job. That's all.

How's everyone's first week back been? Whether it be school or work. You know, when I think about it, for those who work, it's not really their first week back because they've been working during the summer anyways, but even though, doesn't it still feel like the first week back?! Because, you see everyone back to school and you notice that the subways and buses and trains are so much busier and all those little delinquents are elsewhere, if not...they're more noticeable because they're the ONLY one's NOT in school...hahaha..fools.

Anyways, I hope everyone's first week has been good, if not anything new or different...at least something interesting? Comment it up or reply via blog! I wanna know :)

We had to do it again. Second Year style. (a little bit more sloppy and drunk)

First Year.

I know, but I don't know, y'know?

2009-08-12T23:55:00.006-04:00

I've been away from the blogosphere for quite some time, and within that time frame, there have been many topics that have come to mind. But for this awaited return, I don't want this to be any of those which were thought of. I want it to be this one.

I always like to know where I'm going and how I'm getting there. Whether it has to do with school, work or simply to a place like Mcdonalds. Before I get in the car, I make sure I know exactly how to get there, because all this GPS shit --it doesn't quite work for me. I'm not a fan of the to-the-second directions telling me to keep right, keep right, then exit 5 kilometers ahead. I want to know way ahead of 5 km and where that exit is as soon as I enter the highway. I have goals. Long and short term goals, nonetheless --I know how to get to them. They all simply require determination, effort and a smile along the way.

But

I think I can say, not knowing is sometimes a good thing? I mean, after all --one of my favourite quotes is ignorance is bliss. Anyways I digress...for the first time, I think I really felt what it was like to not-know where I was going. Though it may have been a minor speed bump, I look it at now and think, maybe this time I needed to not know. Because in the end, things somehow worked itself out. Sometimes, you just start walking, not knowing where you're going or where this is leading to, but something inside you tells you that this is necessary. So you go, and keep not knowing & end up on a bench, you sit there; thinking of where this whole thing is leading to. Because for the first time --you don't know. It hits you, and that's when you know this is the end point. You ended up here, because you wanted to be here (maybe not like this, but it's now). You've waited so long to be here, so you gotta deal with it. It wasn't that hard to figure it all out when you trace back to everything.

After all that; as much as I love to know, I'm starting to believe that sometimes, not knowing can be a good thing. It lets me live and enjoy life just a little bit more than I already do. So now, if I don't know, I think I'll be down with that every once in a while.
*But don't get me wrong...I still want to know, but I'll let a few things slide here and there. Just to loosen up a bit, y'know. I need that.

at.

Oh, How the Times Have Changed...

2009-07-22T01:53:00.002-04:00

Do you remember what it was like being 13/14 years old?
I do and I don’t. Looking at the kids now a days, I like to think that my generation was slightly better than them if anything? Haha. But I’d hate to think we were exactly like them. Recently I got quite a loud reminder of what it was like to 13 and 14 again, but in this generation.
Working at a summer school with kids 13 and 14 years old the past 2 weeks was quite interesting. I didn’t hate it at all, in fact I found it quite exciting being there every day; so I sort of like it. Also, it adds to the fact that I do want to pursue a career in teaching, so this was definitely an eye opener. It was tiring for sure, but I would say it was worth it, learning all that I did while being there and observing the entire atmosphere has taught me a lot.

I don’t mean to bash the kids of this generation, but I find they are so different from mine and the older generations. Nor can I completely blame it on them, I mean of course there are so many factors that add to their behaviour such as media and parental/sibling influence –but hot damn it has changed. I think kids now a days are way to jaded by everything and anything. Likely, the media and the people that surround them. I mean the basic things that really shape you right? It’s just that –whatever is influencing these kids so much (which is likely media/music and their peers) has really brought these kids down to another level. I mean, some of the words that were coming out of these kids mouths, I couldn’t even remember knowing ALL of that stuff back then. They talk about sex, drugs are shoplifting so casually like they know it all through experience. And I’m sitting there thinking....do they really know what they’re talking about? Like seriously come on? --But they do! They know so much more than I’m pretty sure I knew when I was that age. Seeing as a lot of music out there is about sex, and drugs..I guess it could be normal that they know now, but..I was still puzzled. To further help me in understanding this whole thing, I talked to a few teachers and asked them about all this –they thought the exact same things as me, but they’ve grown to be so used to it since they hear it all the time now.

I have a new found respect for teachers and their patience...haha. The atmosphere was so different and so educating, I really did enjoy it and though this isn’t the age group I am aiming to teach (for now) it’s taught me a lot about them and made me think of being in their shoes once again.
Here are a few samples of conversations that I observed throughout my days:
1.“Who are you??! No, Seriously, who are you? And why are you standing here? Do you know anyone!? (One says to another when he/she comes up to this group. How rude right?)

2. A girl asks for a dollar from some kid...he says no..then later turns around as the girl is walking away saying, “HEY YOU! Here’s a dollar, i don’t know you –what’s your name!!” (he says demandingly..must be true love eh...haha)

3. “I’m probably going to hang out with the bad crowd when I get to High School –have you seen who I hang out with!?”
It’s so interesting what you hear, I mean I don’t mean to eavesdrop at ALL, but when you’re working at a school and you’re surrounded by kids especially at lunch when you’re supervising...obviously conversations are just floating around the room everywhere.

Nonetheless, it was entertaining and the experience gained was so interesting. It made me reminisce and think of, what it was really like to be 13/14 again and what my teachers REALLY thought. Haha. I’m sure they were thoroughly entertained, like myself.

that's all for now :) at.

Rest In Peace MJ

2009-07-08T16:19:00.003-04:00

Rest in peace Michael Jackson.
Wonderful memorial. Usher & Jermaine's performances had me in tears, but how I cried hard when when Paris spoke a few words of goodbye at the end. So sweet.
But the cutest thing was Prince Michael II holding a doll of Michael Jackson....

Usher: Gone Too Soon

Psshhhh!

2009-07-03T23:07:00.003-04:00

I didn't see scattered showers or rain in today's forecast.
But it DID rain!
What up weather network!?
Point proven.

Ugly, Nice Weather

2009-07-02T23:52:00.007-04:00

So, I’ve been thinking of things to blog about the past couple of days and I couldn’t quite put anything together. I noticed that a few people on my blog roll have written something about Michael Jackson’s death. Shocking to the world of course and news; it is not anymore, but how crazy was it that his death alone affected so many people and caught some serious air time on CNN. In a way, I think it’s weird. Also, uhmm wow—I suppose I will never forget the day he died...seeing as it was my 19th birthday. That’s something to remember. One of the best icon’s out there, regardless of what anyone says. But whatever, that’s as much as I’m going to say on his death, because we all know blahblahblah about it and I didn’t want to write anymore about MJ, seeing as it would be pretty cliché to comment furthermore on it, because everyone’s doing it.
ANYWAYS, i’ve finally come up with something valid to blog about (I think). It’s more of a venting session though. So for the past week, the weather network, citypulse24, and my igoogle weather app have been telling me that it’s going to rain all week –Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs, well not so much Friday. And I suppose it only made sense because we’ve had such a hot week prior to this. Yesterday was Wednesday and did I see ANY RAIN?? NO! What about Monday? –NO! What about Tuesday? --NO! And yesterday was Wednesday and HELLZZ NO it didn’t rain, in fact it was a nice day. WTF! You must be asking me why i’m mad that the weather was so nice? Well, it’s because – being summer, weather tends to play a large factor on my plans. When it’s rainy, I usually don’t feel like doing anything –so I hangout indoors (which really isn’t that fun, I get bored quickly). So, this week I kind of had plans to go downtown and maybe like go out places I usually don’t just because it’s summer and y’know why not? –when I begin work, all of this fun will be minimized. But when I looked at the weather forecast for the week, it was calling for rain so I decided maybe to reschedules my plans so that they could be done on a nicer day. Because well face it, something like going downtown isn’t really a rainy day thing. It’s much nicer to do that on a sunny day when you can walk around outside and enjoy the weather, architecture, and humid air mixed with car fumes in downtown Toronto. Also, It’s not like I go downtown often too, since it’s kind of a mission living in the ‘burbs.
Come Tuesday, NO RAIN! At all! Not even a drop...ughhhh! so I wasted that day kind of just lingering around indoors because I was seriously expecting some rain.
Wednesday, I did get a chance to go out and enjoy the weather at the beach and just hang out, but it really because there wasn’t anything open for me to actually go to (seeing as it was Canada Day). It was a nice day and well spent I can’t argue, but it just aggravates me that my plans change last minute or I have to decide upon doing nice summer things based on crappy weather and shitty ass weather reports. This is what I call "ugly, nice weather" --weather that is unexpectedly nice and screws you over. I know it sounds ungrateful, but I'm a schedule kinda person, who also still enjoys spontaneous acts, but when it comes to things that I've kind of been set and excited on...I don't want it ruined. It's like vice versa. If you planned to go to an amusement park, you'd want nice weather, all of a sudden weather flops on you and fucks your plans up...you do not like it. It's fugly!

Come Tuesday, NO RAIN! At all! Not even a drop...ughhhh! so wasted that day kind of just lingering around indoors because I was seriously expecting some rain.
Wednesday, I did get a chance to go out and enjoy the weather at the beach and just hang out, but it really because there wasn’t anything open for me to actually go to (seeing as it was Canada Day). It was a nice day and well spent I can’t argue, but it just aggravates me that my plans change last minute or I have to decide upon doing nice summer things based on crappy weather and shitty ass weather reports.

It’s Thursday, it FINALLY RAINED, but now I started work...so of course I was inside all day anyways so the weather didn’t ruin any plans of mine. But now that the storm has cleared....weather is suppose to be nice tomorrow...great. I don’t know what the hell it is! Global warming?? Or the weather people job got shittier at their jobs?? But get me more accurate weather reports!! Jeeeze...it’s seriously crampin’ some summer style...
Here’s the “weather forecast” for the next few days (according to W.NTWK): .....for now....

This may be right...they're usually okay with predicting sun....lol

Short Term List

2009-06-20T14:50:00.001-04:00

If I have a life list (being my previous post), You would think I would have some short term list right? And that is correct! It's more of a summer 09 list for accomplishments, plans and things or whatever.

*Sidebar: I mean, though the title of my blog is "my univer.city" (not taken from Kanye! i swear, i didn't even know the man had a blog until after i made this..) and it's intended to document my life happenings, occurences, thoughts and what not throughout university...but not restricting it to only school related things of course. Because if it was strictly related to school things,
1. There would be a whole lot of bitchin' likely due to school work.
2. That would mean, i don't write during the summer because, I'm not in school
3. This blog is for this particular stage/era in my life. When I get out into the real, real world I kind of intend on opening a new fresh blog for that part as I know it will be different. I will still always keep this one out and open, and I'll even link it to the new one...but I'll continue on the new era blog. So, when I want to reminisce and look back at what I was thinking during this time..I can do it all in a click!

BUT ANYWAYS, my short term list for summer 09 consists of:
1. Bike the boardwalk again :)! *
2. Save $ for trip!! (while working!)
3. Hit the batting cage *
4. Read a book or 2! (let's not be too ambitious here, we'll hope for a completion of at least one!)
5. yoga *
6. Go to that Port Restaurant...
7. Playing with my guitar once again
8. Paint my toe nails :) *
9. Try and keep spanish speaking mentality going, in order to survive school...

Yeah..that's pretty much it so far, I may add to it, we'll see..any other suggestions?

at.

and Oh, Post script: I've been off from school for almost 2 months now, but I just set this list now b/c now that i'm able..and walking and done with the whole surgery thing --I can actually start accomplishing these things & stop thinking about them! haha. Though, I already went to Baltimore! & it was some good good fun. But i'll update my entire summer at the end of it.

That is all.

Life's Too Short

2009-06-17T16:33:00.002-04:00

Hello there,
So, It's been a while..but only because I've been so busy recently! Big party, just started working and physio still continuing --this is summer I guess. But I'm happy to be busy because well, for the past month, I've been doing nothing but sitting around really; so it feels nice to be out and about again :)
Anyways, enough about that, I'm here to write about something else. I've been waiting to get this down for a while now, but I just wanted it to be perfect (I digress...)

Over the past year specifically, I’ve been contemplating a lot on how short life is and how you should seriously live life to its fullest. And I just realized that there have been a few things triggering this thought.

For one, I'm getting older and I can start accomplishing things I've always wanted to but was too young to do so before. Secondly,I’ve also gotten so bored with things, possibly life and I feel like there needs to be more action, adventure or greater change. And also, in addition to my getting older, as are my parents. Harsh thing to say, it is not. It's just reality. I think about all of their accomplishments in life and how far they’ve come along and, do I want to lead the same lives as them? Maybe in some aspects, I tell myself. I congratulate them for being successful and wonderful people who have brought my brothers and I up with good morals & beliefs (so, I think), and that is one part that I’d like to follow in their footsteps. Either way, I see in them that life truly is too short, because as I grow older, as do they and they're at a totally different stage in their lives, I see that there is always still room for more. Though the thought scares me, how much longer are they around for? I guess only God knows (and for all you Atheists out there –I guess it’s up to fate). You may be wondering, why the hell I would be thinking something like this!? But I think it because it’s reality, and I have to put things in perspective so that I can understand things in life –no matter what they are. My greatest fear in life is not, butterflies, heights, or scary movies. It’s the thought of losing everyone I love and see them go before me. So, as I begin to let reality hit me –I prepare for the adventure of a life time; my life.

Side bar:For those of you that know me REALLY well, I do not like to talk about the future because these are the thoughts that run through my mind when the future convo is brought up –I go pretty deep into thought about things, and it usually hurts or hinders me from something. So I avoid future talk as much as I can. Hence, two of my favourite quotes are, “Ignorance is bliss” (because honestly, sometimes not knowing is better) and secondly, my own little saying-- “Stop living in the past, don’t live in the future, live in the moment” –because it's easier to enjoy life. *Though, if future planning is required for such events involving my life adventure or academic success, I will participate.

Anyways, moving on... ever since High School (from what I can remember –maybe grade 11) I’ve had this list of things that I want to accomplish in life, filled with travel, goals and things I want to do, or whatever. Every time I had something new, I would add it to my paper list. But this year, I got super organized at school and decided to type my list up, change it/update to my new interests etc and keep it on my computer so that it’s easier to access and organize.

Before I lay it all out for you, let me put some things out on the table. I’m 19, and still quite young. I’m aware that I’m heading toward the prime and most exciting part of my life, which is exactly why I created this list when I was younger, because next thing I know It, I’ll be too old to get everything on this list accomplished throughout life at the right speed (This is the most future talk and planning I’ve ever done and I’ll leave it at that). Also, now that I’m old enough to go out on my own and do some of these things on my list (spoiler alert! Traveling), I figured, why waste time right? I’m lucky to have been brought up where I am with the Parents that I have –who have provided me with everything I ever needed plus more and a best friend who shares just about the same passions and adventures as I, which only sets us up for a nice view ahead. So why will I hold myself back or let anyone hold me back from all the things that can be done. When I’m like 70 or 80, I want to look back at my life (hopefully remembering all of it!!) and not regret missing out on anything because of something stupid. Of course, I’ve had some regrets already (being the average teenager probably with stupid minor drama), but they WERE regrets, now they’re just past and they no longer phase me. And THAT, is the way I like it, because there is no room for any of that kind of crap over here! So with that said, here’s my list (incomplete of course, as I’m still in thought and I may add to it whenever I want...but eventually I’ll write another blog and update on the status of these things as time passes) and the expiration date is unknown.

*= things I want to definitely do with my best friend.

1.Travel Europe:
a.Spain: Barcelona, Madrid /hot latinos *
b.England: London
c.Italy: Venice, Rome, Leaning Tower of Pisa
d.Greece: Athens, Olympia, Santorini Island
e.France: Hit up some sick club/rave, Versailles, Eiffel Tower *
f.Germany: Berlin, hit up the autoban perhaps?

2.Travel to Australia
3.Travel to New Zealand
4.Travel to Venezuela (see Angel Falls)
5.Travel to the Galapagos Islands
6.Graduate University-Start a career of some sort, hopefully Teaching.
7.Go to NYC, Manhattan -See a SNL show! *
8.Go to Arizona, see the Grand Canyon
9.See an Ellen Degeneres show live *
10.Attend an NBA Play Off game *
11.Learn to surf *
12.Skydivng/ iFly
13.Get a tattoo
14.Own a convertible! Yes, I want one, so I can cruise and do it in some serious summer style.
15.Volunteer w/ a humanitarian cause abroad and help some peeps out!
16.See the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)
17.Meet an A-list Celebrity
18.Travel to Tahiti!
19.Work in a foreign (pref. spanish speaking) country
20.Stay in healthy & in shape!!!
21.Own my own place
22.Have a family...

If you’re up for any of it, join me!

at.

Dear Fayette,

2009-06-01T11:08:00.000-04:00

GET ON THE BLOGOSPHERE!

I know you are reading this and you're currently considering it. I'm terribly bored at home and you can help me by creating a blog and I will follow it.

That is all :)
<3 alyssa

post script: you never leave comments :( womp!
I like comments :)

Funny

2009-05-29T12:26:00.000-04:00

I saw this funny joke on the internet the other day as I was cruisin' on igoogle. Thought I'd share..enjoy! :)

What we learn from movies:

It is always possible to park directly in front of any building you are visiting.-- A detective can only solve a case once he has been suspended from duty.-- If you start dancing in the street, everyone you bump into will know all the steps.-- Most laptops are powerful enough to override the communication systems of any invading alien civilization.-- It does not matter if you are heavily outnumbered in a fight involving martial arts -- your enemies will wait patiently to attack you one by one, dancing around in a threatening manner until you have knocked out their predecessors.-- After a person suffers a massive blow to the head, they will still be surprisingly good looking.-- No one involved in a car chase, hijacking, explosion, volcanic eruption or alien invasion will ever go into shock.-- Partnering police officers with their total opposites will always, eventually, lead to buddy teams who share unbreakable bonds and gruff affection.

Right? lol

at.

Pet Peeves

2009-05-26T16:04:00.000-04:00

As stated on dictionary.com, pet peeve is defined as, a noun; A particular and often continual annoyance; personal bugbear: This train service is one of my pet peeves.

I came up with this post last week when I saw one of my biggest pet peeves sitting right beside me in the car in Baltimore, a used up crumpled tissue. And I couldn’t do anything about it, because there was no garbage around me. Then I began to think, what else drives me crazy? –also keeping in mind, this would make a really good post. I know, I have a few pet peeves and I know everyone else does too. In this post, I’m going to list out all of my pet peeves. After reading this, I’m sure many of you will get to know me a bit better and for those who already know me pretty well –maybe you didn’t know these things about me. So hear it goes!

1.Crumpled up/used tissues lying around!!(whether sneezed/wiped/blown on) –just put them in the garbage right after you use them people! If there isn’t a garbage beside you, find one! It’s gross and very unsanitary. This is my biggest pet peeve..it actually drives me crazy.

2.People who leave the cereal boxes open/unrolled...the cereal will go stale!

3.Double of the same artists on my ipod under one another (meaning one is spelled wrong or there is a space following the end of the name)...gaahhh! drives me insane –I always have to fix it asap. I like my ipod organized.

4.Slow drivers and people who signal to switch lanes, yet take forever to switch..and there’s no one in front or beside them!!

5.Dirty windows when driving..i can't see..this is probably more of a safety thing more than a pet peeve thing, lol.

6.Dry skin..always carry lotion/cream around!

7.Stupid telemarketers that call my house, then when I answer...no one is there! You make me so angry!

8.When glass doors say TUO on it, do you use it or not? I don’t know!? It’s confusing.

9.When we leave the house and we’re driving down the street and someone says, did we turn the stove off? Did we close the garage? Leave the light on? Etc....can you just remember that stuff when you leave?!

10.Empty shampoo bottles left in the shower!! Just throw them out seriously. They’re just taking space.

11.Wet surfaces such as counters by the sink. Keep them dry! I always end up putting down a piece of paper then lifting it up all wet!

12. When people don't take at least one headphone off when speaking to someone, especially when talking to someone of respect (ie. elderly)

13. When people don't say "you're welcome" after I say "thank you"

Those are all of my pet peeves that I can think of right now. I'm sure this list may increase..
What are yours? What actually, secretly drives you crazy?

at.

Thank You

2009-05-16T19:14:00.000-04:00

It's been just over a week since I've had my operation and I've been very dependent on my family in taking care of me. I'm not the type of person to be dependent on others, I like to do things on my own, so this week has been very different. I hope they don't feel unappreciated, because I've tried to say thank you each time they have helped me with anything and I really do appreciate all of the things they've done for me, because without them, I'd have a really, really hard time. I'm sure they're very tired of having to do things for me too, especially my brothers. I don't mean to be a burden, but I guess this is what comes with post op, aside from the pain that it's given me. Because I'm in this state, I also know they have to consider a few things when they leave the house or make plans, like if they can even go, or if I can go? if I go, who will be with me when I need help? If they want to go out, they have to consider what to leave me with and to make sure I'll be okay. With all that said, I just wish I could be a lot better now so that I don't have to be so dependent on them. I'm very thankful for all of the things they've done for me, all of the times they've stayed home with, accompanied me to physio, even when they could have made other plans (or even had work, but rearranged their schedule to help me) I appreciate all the things they do for me. It's not easy for me on the receiving side too. Of course I have the easy end of this, being served everything, sitting around watching tv etc. But it's never fun, when you're confined like this because you know you want to help. It's hard to sit around and watch them do these simple things for you, when you could be doing them if you were even a bit more mobile,and sometimes it gets kind of lonely when I'm sitting here or lying around staring at the ceiling possibly thinking of, wow --what can I do today? I don't mean to complain at all, but I've had so much down time and I've sat around long enough to think and know what all this has brought to my house and I know it puts a strain on them because they have to think about me all the time, and I feel bad for that. That's all that has kind of been on my mind lately.
Thanks for everything family, and my aunts and cousins who've called to see how I'm doing and my cousins and friends who've come and visited me whilst I've been house bound or just even messaged me to see how I'm holdin' up. I'm lucky to have a great group of people that surround me.

at.

MY5, or 4?

2009-05-09T22:20:00.000-04:00

Due to extreme boredum and in response to my cousin, AVI's recent blog post (check it out! Blog Sweet Blog)I've accepted her challenge in creating a list of my "top 5" male celebrities.
So far, I've only been able to come up with 4 solid people, because well, the 5th spot is still up for grabs. Technically speaking, I can come up with a whole list of people, but unfortunately, you've got to be real good get on the my5. I realized, it's actually really difficult to come up with 5 solid people, so I've decided to state 4 (in no particular order or rank), but i've left the 5th open because I can't quite narrow it down. I've created a voting poll for the 5th spot, just wanted to see who people think should be on it. So feel free to vote it up just for fun.

1. Neil Patrick Harris!
Yup, I know he is gay. But, do I care? NO. Once upon a time he was a straight man, enough said. He, or more so his character in HIMYM is too much of a womanizer, but he plays an awesome Barney. NPH is just a funny actor and in addition I do find him attractive (regardless of his sexuality! though, it does disappoint me b/c he surely does not sway my way... I mean, when you look at the things we have in common --guys are UNfortunately one of those things. So, there is the downfall to this) Nonetheless, he makes my list without a single doubt.

2. Zac Efron
YES, Zac Efron. I don't care how "Disney" he is!, but I think he is pretty! He is indeed a pretty boy and I'm down with that. This is going to sound extremely childish, but he hella had be at HSM1 and my infatuation continued onwards with him as 2 and 3 came out and don't even get e started on 17again, haha, even better. He can sing, dance, act --at a certain degree....and is gorgeous!! So he definitely gets a spot on the list.

3. James Franco
"The young James Dean" --that, he is. Funny guy, great actor, also very good looking. I dig him. That's all that needs to be said.

4. John Mayer
Sure, he makes weird faces when he sings and his choice of hair styles sometimes may not be so awesome (such as the long hair phase, not my fave), but I dig his music, humor and style at most. Seems to be a pretty down to earth hombre.

5. Like I said above, 5th is still open, as I could not figure out a solid 5th. So I'll leave it blank for suggestions and the poll to vote for the possible people I thought of.
I think, if this was a general list --not only pertaining to male celebrities, I would have put Jennifer Aniston down. She's one of my favourite actresses and to be honest, I prefer the Brad/Jen combo over the Brangelina combo. Just my opinion.

at.

Post ACL-Op

2009-05-07T09:33:00.000-04:00

I had some other stuff written down here before, but I realized --it wasn't good enough and it didn't explain it in literal terms. So, let me re write that.
IT HURTS! IT HURTS LIKE A MF'N BIOTCH.
I thought before this, my pain tolerance was descent, given my past injuries and excruciating teeth pulling + braces when I was younger. I still hate needles, hence I opted for no Epidural in this process and I thought the IV was enough, BUT NOW, I'M SO SURE THAT I HAVE A VERY HIGH TOLERANCE FOR PAIN. AS IN, VERY HIGH/EXCELLENT. (Not okay, good or great, it's at excellent)
I WANT THESE STAPLES OUT OF MY LEG NOW.

May 28, 2008

2009-05-05T12:56:00.000-04:00

Last week, I was cleaning my room and I came across my "journal" --I guess some may call it. Filled w/ old stuff, y'know. I was curious to see what I wrote after my knee injury last year, so I flipped to the pages around May.

On May 28/08, I wrote:
I can't go to New Orlean's anymore, I can't play basketball, I can't play baseball, definitely no Rugby anymore, What the fuck can I even do? I am going to do nothing this summer.

Well, in fact, now that I look back on it, it wasn't that bad. Of course it wasn't magnificent because of all the changes that occurred last year throughout the summer, it wasn't that bad and I guess I made the best out of that situation. Though it wasn't the usual summer for me--filled w/ playing sports and traveling and working (keeping so busy that there was no time for anything else!!). I some how managed to have some fun and relax a whole lot. It took me a while to get used to the change, and being my last summer before I go off to University, I wanted to do a lot of things.

I literally woke up this morning saying, Shit --It's already Tuesday. 24 hours from now I'll be preparing myself for surgery.
Though, I have a long paved road of recovery and physio ahead of me this summer. I'm hoping it will go by quicker and I won't let this stop me from doing all the fun things I intend on accomplishing this summer. I'm already used to not playing sports during the summer months. So that's one thing down. For now, I guess I just have to get this done. Live and learn with life. I'll keep things optimistic. I know I will bitch and complain soon enough, but in the end, I won't let it stop the fun.

Let me modify last years wordings:
~~What the fuck can I even do? I am going to do nothing this summer.~~(5.28.08)
It will be a good summer & I can still do a whole lot of things, and I will do EVERYTHING. (5.05.09)

at

GAME SIX!

2009-05-01T02:12:00.000-04:00

3OT! 3-3 in the series Chicago vs. Boston, this game was no doubt, one of the dirtiest ever!

Highlights:
-Noah's fast break dunk; fouls Pierce out!
-Friggin Heinrich misses an open lay up!
-Rose; oh baby, Rose...unbelievable game winning block against Rondo.

*Noah's dunk and Rose's block were pretty much the game savers at this point. Though, Noah needs to work on his defense. Ray Allen is too clutch to be left alone. He can really hit the 3.

Take note the highlights in case you missed, possibly the most epic game of the season thus far!! I was honestly left without words by the 3rd overtime. This game was killing me! Screaming, yelling, running around. It was way too exciting for my own good and possibly everyone elses on Facebook too, as I saw that almost everyone on the feed had a status relating to the game. I cannot wait for game seven!

"The Gaythering Storm"

2009-04-27T20:23:00.001-04:00

I don't mean to be discriminatory towards gay's, but I found this parody hella-funny. Haha!

"There's a cold front of gay people over here and we are over here, and they are coming towards us".

A Gaythering Storm from Jane Lynch

Kudos to a Wicked First Year

2009-04-26T14:27:00.000-04:00

It was my last weekend in Res.
What did I do?
How did I end my year off?

I'm going to keep this as simple and to the point as I can.
For those who were there, they would know and that is all, so no explanation needed, you can just read this, laugh and reminisce. If you weren't, here's a bit of the dL and I can explain later if you want.

Friday April 24/09: McDonald's run 11pm.
Driving around which consisted of...switched drivers, so many cops and the insane car dialogue went somewhere along the lines of.. "Are they following us? They are following us! We look sketchy. What is the speed limit here? Where do I turn? Left, no! Oh well, I'm turning right. Okay, they are not following us. Where do I go? left? right? oh well, i'm just going to go straight"

Saturday April 25/09: Thunderstorms!, 10pm McDonald's run, Kings & Ride the Bus, running outside in the pouring rain, everyone slowly starts to die out and fall asleep, except for two.

Sunday April 26/09: Two are still up, what do we do? We are hungry and nobody will drive us.
4:30 am we walk 3.3 km (45 minutes) to McDonald's. In fact, we arrive in time for breakfast --because breakfast starts at 5 :) That meal tasted better than ever. Then walk back another 45 minutes to res, in bed by 6:30 am.
Satisfied and tired as hell, it was epic.

Sidebar: If you didn't notice, I had been to McDonalds 3 times within 30 hours (gross, I know); infact the evening shift lady remembered me, because, well by my last visit I was technically just there about 7 hours ago, haha! I told her not to judge me, i'm just starving and they're always open.
But I am not going to lie, I haven't had McDonald's in so long, so I just indulged in it this time and it tasted better than ever. Is that sad? But I would also like to stress the fact that I'm extremely sick of cafeteria food, so sick that McDonald's tastes that much better.
Oh well, I'll be out of here in 24 hours.
This was quite an epic weekend and wicked way to end my first year here.

There have been lots of memories and great people that I met here, in which I am very GLAD to have met them. I know at times, or quite often according to you all that I kind of come off as an asshole. But you all know I think you're all "awesome" (Like that one time, I opened up my heart to you guys and then you all made fun of me!!!--that's why It's just better that I don't say that shit, because then you friggin fools make fun of me)
Nonetheless, thanks for being awesome people. I think the thing I might miss the most is bothering one another because we can. It's weird knowing that I won't be seeing eachother everyday for four months, especially from going to seeing eachother every second. This isn't a goodbye obviosuly because it's only been first year and us fools are living together next year, so this is more of a "I'll miss you hombres" for the summer, we're just on the "brb" tip here, as we'll see eachother soon. Sorry I won't cry tomorrow when I leave...just as a heads up because I know some of you weirdos might........but well, you know me.
Next year will be even more epic; you know it.

History 1401E, Sec 570 FML

2009-04-17T13:05:00.001-04:00

As my first year comes to an end, I've come to realize that History 1401 E (European history) has provided with a series of FML moments.
Read, enjoy, and laugh at my expense.

In term 1, we had to a select of a topic from a list (one per person) for our history essay which was worth 35% of our final grade, in fact our final exam was worth 30%, making the essay worth more. He was giving us quite a large portion of the year to complete this, which meant he was expecting well written papers.

Come decision time, I happened to be home, so I didn't get first dibs on a topic. But, I really didn't care because I hadn't taken History since grade 10, so all of the topics on the sheet were somewhat abysmal to me (except for the common sense, WWI, II subjects). So, I decided that it was no big deal since I didn't really have a preference.

When I returned to class the following day that students already chose their topics, I had to choose between what was left. I simply took a look at the list and decided to choose the ones that looked the easiest (meaning, the thesis is already stated in the topic, therefore I don't have to come up with one). That left me down to two choices.
Unfortunately, the first one I wanted to do was taken by the guy in front of me in line (FML #1). Thus, I had to make a quick decision so that I wouldn't hold up. I ended up choosing,
The Impact of Steam Technology on the 19th Century Naval Power.
Sounds like a descent topic right? I mean, the thesis is right there, I have to find...the impacts of steam technology on the 19th C. naval power. Sounded very direct and that made me happy at the time.

Little did I know that it would give me hell in the future.
Back in October, I told myself that I wanted to get the essay done over Christmas break so that all I would have to do is edit it in second semester and hand it in by March. Well, of course I didn't do it over Christmas break --did I even do any work? Obviously not. So that plan had a big FAIL on it. Fail was written all over that plan before it even started really. But there's no harm in trying to be optimistic right?

So, all of January and February, I had been researching and researching and I couldn't find anything. I realized, shit --this topic really sucks. It's difficult, I can't find the right shit and now I don't want to do it (FML #2). I e-mailed my prof a couple times and he provided me with some insight on the direction of my essay (which thank God for, because I could have totally gone the wrong way).

Come the Friday lecture before the essay is due, I notice that this lecture is sort of leading towards the topic of my essay. So I go back to my room, continue working on my essay at least with some valid and good information from some books and a basic intro from lecture.

Monday March 9. This is probably the best part, right here. The essay is due.
I walk into class sit down and nervous and sort of happy to finally hand it in. Lecture starts. I look down at my title page.

Problem number 1: I had a typo in my last name. (FML #3) What a great start to the essay, my prof's going to think I'm a dumb ass, can't even spell my own last name.

Problem number 2: Remember how I said the previous lecture was leading my essay topic? Well, this entire lecture WAS ABOUT MY ESSAY (FML #4). There I am flipping shit and quickly running through the pages of my essay checking if I mentioned this and that.
Now, it's really too late; What's done is done. So I leave it and hand it in, walking back to my room --really mad.

Anyways, weeks pass and I await my essay. Unfortunately, Prof's marker got really sick, so he was going to be slow with the marking and he said he would hand them back on the last day. If not, for sure on the exam date.
I left for home before the last class and well, he still didn't have them all marked. BUT, he had about 15 marked --of course mine would be one of them. And i'm not there to get it, so I now have to wait till the exam date. So the entire week until I returned, I was freaking out because I wanted to know my mark (FML #5).

April 13, I get back to school the day before the History exam. I'm studying like crazy in my room with CB and TG. And unsurprisingly, CB looked up what other courses our history Prof teaches (because she loves his class and wants to adopt him as her grandfather).
And what does she find? Something so enlightening, it just about made me want to pee my pants of nervousness.
Our history prof teaches an entire course on British Naval Power. OH MY F%&$@(&* WORD!!
(FML #6). I'm sitting there, going NOO WAYY, why?! why? now, backtrack. Out of all of the topics I chose, it was one that he teaches a whole mother efffing course on (and remember, I chose it because 1. I thought it was easy, 2. It was a quick decision!!)
Our Prof is a pro at this subject and I happen to be writing about it. I mean, no wonder he had mine marked in the beginning, because he probably WANTED to read about it.
Oh, that just made me not want to get my essay back at all anymore.

April 14. Exam day. I think the exam went well, at least I hope. At the end, I went to go pick up my essay on a pile on top of the desk. It was totally the one on the top. I looked at it all nervous. TG apparently actually watched me go and get it and said I looked like I wanted to barf.
I wanted to look at it in the class as I was leaving, but I couldnt get to the page, so I decided that I'll wait till I get out in case I faint or something right?
I ended up getting a B, and I must say, I'm quite satisfied with that. Considering all the stress that it's given me...I'd take that.

Gotta love first year.

at.

Ray's of Light on a Rainy Day

2009-04-08T23:55:00.000-04:00

This past weekend, I met my Dad and Bro in Kitchener for the annual OBA provincials.
It hasn't been too long since I've seen them, but being away from home for school does make things seem a lot longer. I was really excited and happy to see my Dad again, especially because, if you break it down, I've really only seen him a few times since he left on a somewhat "business"/vacation trip. When I came home for my reading week, he left the following day and when he came back I was already back in school. I went home for a weekend once after and saw him for just a few day and it was back to school for me. So I mean, it seemed a lot longer than it really was.

Point being, it's always great seeing family when I come home & as soon as I was picked up from the bust station in Waterloo, Dad and I headed to Ray's game (which Ray was already at). On the way there, my Dad said "It's nice to see you again" and likewise, it was nice seeing him as I did miss him.

I arrived in time for Ray's first game, but didn't get a chance to say "Hi" to him because he was already warming up on the court so I just sat and watched until the game was over.
As soon as the game was over, I went down to look for him to say "Hi" of course and just talk casually, I suppose. I really had no one else to talk to. Dad was talking to the other parents, Mom was at home and so was Chris, therefore I seriously had no one to talk to.

As Ray and I were leaving the gym, we were walking and talking just casual conversation of course (what do an 11 year old and 18 year old talk about?) and one of the parents of another team mate noticed us as she was walking behind us and she seemed astound when she asked, "You two get along?"
Ray and I looked at each other (I think telepathically hoping that we would have the same answer) and said, "yes" and proceeded to look at one another. She was really surprised, yet also impressed because she said that her son (Ray's teammate) and her daughter (who is only one year younger than myself) do not get along and she can never get them to do so.

It was at that point that I truly realized that, we actually do get along. I mean, we do have our moments of disagreement and we did express that following our "yes" but most of the time, we're pretty good. I never thought about it like that. In the end, I do know of course that he is my brother and I love him, but I tend to resent that, especially if I'm mad at him.
We get along quite well and it does surprise me, considering I make fun of him a lot. Nonetheless, its always a joke for a good laugh.

I thought, maybe it was because now that I'm living away from home --we've learned to appreciate each others company, but he even admitted, that's not it; we just do, actually get along.

I've titled this blog Ray's of Light on a Rainy Day because, this was the day it was raining up a storm. I was suppose to leave London by 3, but the bus was late (an hour late). I and about 7 other people stood in the rain for an hour waiting for the bus and by the time it arrived, I was soaked. I was still drenched by the time I even arrived in Kitchener. The day was crap because I was soaked and sick of the rainy weather; and frankly I still am --especially the snow (it's April!)
I was so happy when I arrived, meeting up with my Dad (Ramon) and Bro (Raymond) and spending the weekend with them --which I have never done (interesting I must say, definitely not a family even; missed Mom and Chris too!) I learned a lot and it did brighten up my day, especially with the day I was having.

a LEGENDARY Saturday with some Hombres

2009-03-30T20:29:00.000-04:00

Recently, I've been running out of things to blog about, or nothing interesting has really happened for me to want to blog about.
But let me tell you how unproductive my weekend was.

First of all, I said that I was going to do some "serious" reading this weekend because I have a lot of catching up to do in order to prepare for exams. But did I do that? Of course not.

Instead, I spent all of Saturday lazing the day away with my two friends CB & TG. This has probably been the most laziest Saturday I've ever spent thus far in my life time.

This is how it went down :
1. Woke up, went to the lounge, each of us with a couch to our self (CB, the shortest, with the biggest couch --c'mon!) layed there watching How I Met Your Mother.
2. Ordered Swiss Chalet
3. Went down to get it when it was delivered
4. Back to the lounge

*Sidebar, Someone lost the remote for the DVD player, so in order to go to the next episode when each one was done, you had to get up and go to the DVD player and press play.
We were too lazy to even do that ^ (get up and press play) so we waited until someone came in the lounge and asked them to do it for us. Until then, we sat there. made conversation to pass time and watched the DVD screen saver.

5. Realized that, maybe we should bring the DVD player closer to us so that we could reach it... (actually that wasn't my idea --I thought we should build a really long stick, but clearly the other idea made more sense, but for the record I think my idea was more creative and legendary) So we moved it within foot distance so that my foot can reach it and press play.

6. Everyone eventually fell asleep.
7. Woke up, ate some junk food. Somewhere along the lines of ice cream, cheesecake, and nibs..
8. A tour group walked in, and TG said, "this is where you will gain all of your weight..." haha, exhibit-A, us sitting there looking like the laziest people in the entire world (yet very true)
9. Decided that during Earth Hour, we should go for a walk and actually get out of the lounge, get some fresh air, y'know --something healthy perhaps?
10. Got all ready and prettied up for, what? our Earth Hour Walk. haha, as if we even had anyone to impress...
11. Went for the walk, which ended up being pretty nice and relaxing. The weather was really nice, & somewhat serene.
12. Got back did more nothing stuff.

Day well spent? Yes, but probably not considering we didn't really get anything accomplished & I most certainly didn't open up any books.
Nonetheless, good times. Good-lazy times.

How Did I Get Here?

2009-03-17T10:40:00.000-04:00

Whether the situation be good or bad, I find myself always asking, "How did I get here?".
I'd have to say, many of the times that I've asked myself that, it was after something bad. As in, "oh shoot, how the hell did I get here"

About two nights ago, I was laying in my bed ready to go to sleep and I asked myself, "How did I get here". This time, it wasn't referring to some kind of crappy situation. I was actually reflecting upon my life (up to now) and I was thinking about how good things are, just in general. Not that anything spectacular happened or as if everything is going my way (but not everything is really). But I just thought about where I am right now, and how I feel and, I realized I'm actually at a place in my life where I'm just happy with really no worries. Nothing is really bothering me, and I'm pretty content, and I'm not frustrated or mad. I can't remember the last time I felt "free" like this.
When I asked myself, how I got here (as to where I am right now, sitting in my university res room), I was specifically referring to, how did I actually get HERE.
How did I end up in University?
How did I end up at school away from home?
How did I get through first year of Univ (thus far..as it is already coming to an end!)?
How did I get so close with my parents?
How is everything just going so well?!

So, I thought about it and answered my own questions.
How did I end up in University?
I worked my ass of in grade 12.

How did I end up at UWO?
1. again, worked my ass to get in and 2. I definitely begged my parents to go here.

How did I get through first year of Univ (thus far..as it is already coming to an end!)?
I picked up great organizational habits that kept me in line most of the time and focused on school work when needed (while i still had time to have fun).

How did I get so close with my parents?
I left. That's it.
We learned to appreciate one another a lot more since we're actually a part and we only get to see each other once a month.

How is everything just going so well?!
I've got some good friends that have kept me sane and smiling.
School is almost ending & it's pretty chill.
I love where my relationships are with everyone & especially my parents.
I've let go of a lot of things & started on a different path.
The weather has been amazing the past few days (how can you not be happy?!)
and lastly, I'm just happy with myself and proud of all of my accomplishments thus far.

In order for me to have answered those questions above, I had to back track. I realized, by backtracking I was able to discover how I actually got here and it makes me happy to have stuck to something that I've been enjoying thus far. I feel accomplished, I guess you can say. Is that kind of cheesy? But I do. It's a pretty good feeling. I'm not saying that I'm like "the shit" or something, but you know that feeling when you've succeeded with something you've been trying for all of your life? This is one of those feelings.
It's probably because, I'm in a new milestone of life.
Think about it,
The whole point of elementary school was to get into high school (remember that feeling when you were going into high school!? it felt like a bigger step) and the whole point of high school was to get into university. Now I'm in University & the whole point of this is to get out into the real world. I'm 3/4 of the way of getting into the real world since the day I was born (But if you want to specify, I'm really only 1/4 of the way because I'm not in first year..back at the bottom of the ladder!)
It's just interesting to think about, how far I've come along. This is what it feels like to be 18, to be in University, to be away from home etc. You see it all in movies, you have this general idea, but you never know until you experience it, but that's life. You live it, I still haven't decided if I think of life as a game or not? Because sometimes I feel like it is, but other times, I think --why should it be a game? Life is a beautiful thing, you should enjoy it and live it to the fullest.

All of this thinking and free feeling was a result of me pondering about all of the things that I'm grateful for right now. I know soon enough, within the next 30 days I will be feeling frustrated because of exams, but I almost think that they will go by so fast, I won't even have time to be pissed. For now, I won't worry about that though, I'll take things one step at a time so that I can slow things down and enjoy life at its best moments.

It Smells Like....

2009-03-08T00:12:00.001-05:00

This is the blog I've been waiting to write for the past few days and I'm so excited to finally get it down here!

Recently, due to the spring weather approaching I've been saying, "It smells like spring!" What does spring even smell like? You may be asking. Well you should know! Everyone has a distinct smell attached to something, someone or some moment. So my spring scent may be different from yours or any other persons.
On Friday, i was having a difficult time concentrating in my history class.
1. Because the weather was so beautiful outside I really didn't want to be inside
2. The smell. It was the smell of spring.

As I was walking to class (& even in lecture) on Friday, the only thing on my mind was, the smell reminded me of spring. When I walked into the building, the smell changed and instead it started to remind me of Frosh week and i started to Deja vu. It was that moment that really inspired this blog entry. I began to think of other scents that brought me back to other moments. I then realized, I have plenty of distinct scents for everything and I know other people too. You know how when you walk into someones house, theres always a certain smell & you can usually remember it (I know i do with all my cousins) it's something you just know. You can smell a pillow, or a blanket and almost know exactly who it belongs to. Well it's the same thing with seasons. I've decided to come up with a list of "smells" (in no particular order) that I usually distinguish and a brief description of the smell that my nose has attached to it. You may even catch me saying them sometimes, if you happen to do so --this blog will remind you of it when it happens. These are just some signature scents that my nose has attached to moments and/or things. Maybe you have similar ones? or other ones? Here are mine:
1. It smells like spring: fresh, breezy wind.
2. It smells like winter: chimney fires & cold air
3. It smells like cottage: burning wood from the bon fire & this musty smell we get when we turn on the water tap for the first time in the spring/summer since our last visit in the previous year.
4. It smells like cardboard: go smell one..you'll know what I mean.
5. It smells like New Orleans: cigars, cigarettes..y'know that stuff.
6. It smells like weed: that itself has a distinguishing smell anyways.
7. It smells like Hollister/Abercrombie: their fragrance...
8. It smells like clean: any laundry detergent really :)
9. It smells like funeral home: too many flowers with an accent of wood.
10. It smells like burning: burning food.
11. It smells like camp: old wood & also occasional bon fires
12. It smells like summer: sunscreen!! & outdoor BBQ'n
13. It smells like new car: go to a dealership & sit in the cars for fun. You will know.
14. It smells like industrializing countries: airports of the Philippines & Dominican Republic --have just about the same smell, they remind me of one another.
15. Smells like Vienna: old historical city smell + rain, and Sausages!!
16. It smells like fall: pumpkins & apple cider
17. It smells like Christmas: Pine trees & Cranberry
18. It smells like hockey: cold sweaty equipment (yuck)
19. It smells like legendary: my gym bag.....bahahaha..some may not find that so legendary. But to me...it is the legendary smell of athletics.

On top of all of this, I have distinct scents for every single one of my cousins/family members & people i've every been close with, such as my best friend sammmy :) and I must say, they all smell awesome.

at.

Post Script. If technology would allow me, I would attach a scent to my blog and you would forever remember it. Since I can't actually do that....sniff the air right now & may it remind you of my blog from this point onward :)

Eleven Hundred Dollars Later

2009-03-07T23:52:00.000-05:00

First and foremost, I must say that it's great to be back on the blog. I've recently been so busy and stressed due to the fact that essays have been due and mid terms just passed for me. In fact, my final essay of the semester & most important one is due on Monday and I'm not quite finished; technically I shouldn't be here. But too bad, I am. And to further justify my being here, my progress with this essay has been going quite well.
Anyways, since I haven't been here in a while, throughout my week, it's been itching me because I've had so many things I've wanted to blog about, but I was too busy to do so.

First of all, earlier this week, I found out that the car damage from my incident that happened approximately 2 weeks ago was a lot more than we (mom & i) thought. In a previous post, i just mentioned that the car damage was little -slightly loose bumper. But not so much... Dad & Bro came back from their trip and the car was finally taken out of the garage for the first time since the incident...and it appears that the entire front bumper must be replaced because the bottom was pushed in & upwards or something of that nature, and as well, to top it off.. I broke the left headlight...(and did i forget to mention that the right headlight bulb is actually broken already)
I felt so bad; even up to now i still do. This evening i found out that the car if fixed now, $1, 100 later..... and it's all good. As if that would really make me feel better? HAH, i know it really doesn't... but I really do count myself lucky considering the things that could have happened.
That will definitely be something that I won't ever forget & I'm pretty sure I will feel bad about this for the rest of my life....every time i look at the car, I almost feel like it hates me, so i look away and turn to my trusty van :) haha..that thing is just so beast!
Oh well, what's done is done and I'm one lucky person I must say.

at. (ps. DST, move an hour ahead! )

Goodbye Sam

2009-02-28T00:20:00.000-05:00

Sam's Club is a Big Deal actually.

I'm not sure if many of you have heard (or even care), but all Sam's Clubs in Ontario are being closed to the public as of Sunday March 1, 2009 and it will only be open to business companies!
If you're interested, check it out on the City News Website here.

To me, this was quite the shock and it was also very random. Last Sunday I was sitting in my local Sam's Club enjoying a large salted pretzel making fun of all of the displays with my Mother and Brother and also commenting on the fact that you could probably host a childrens birthday party there! Think about it, theres a whole bunch of TV's around (that is your movie entertainment), there is food at a very reasonable price, cakes and sweets (that takes care of your desert), there is a basketball net on display along with other toys where you can shoot around and play even more and of course, you know how spacious and large Sam's Club is --there is plenty of room to run around for a child.

But that isn't the point of this entry. I'm just puzzled by this sudden occurence. I don't think I've put it out there yet, but my favourite store is the grocery store. Growing up and even up to now, everytime my Dad goes to the grocery store, I tag along. There's just something about being there that I love. I think part of the reason is that, when you spend money at a grocery store, it has so much more value than buying a piece of clothing. Or it might be that I'm always hungry?
But in particular, whole sale places like Sam's Club have always lured me through their Jedi-feeling, automatic doors because they had the best (and I mean the best!) samples that any store could have. Sometimes, my Dad and I would just go to Sam's Club after school because we're bored (he says we need to pick up things..but I know we don't) but all we really want are samples and then eventually we end up leaving with a couple of purchases.
Sam's Club has even turned into a family "hang out spot"on Sunday's after mass (this included Aunts, Uncles and Cousins) because eveyone needed to do their weekly grocery shopping and then by the time we were finished it would be lunch time so we would all sit down and eat at the tables past the cash registers (kind of a wierd hang out place, I know. But it was very convenient)

It's just such a convenient place and the fact that they sell things in bulk is what attracts most people of course.
Since I heard that they are closing down, I was really upset!
1. Because now, my family needs a new Sunday hang out spot
2. I'm totally missing out blow out sales
3. I just love it

I know that there are still other grocery stores around and there is a Costco in the town over from mine, it's just the fact that I've become so accustomed to Sam's being right down the road from my home and the next time I go home, it won't be there. So, Goodbye Sam and Hello....(tba)

at.

I'm So Not Prepared

2009-02-26T19:31:00.000-05:00

I'm currently sitting in my Social Justice and Peace lecture and I'm not going to lie, it's really boring. Before anyone begins to judge me on the fact that I'm blogging while sitting in a lecture, I must let you know that we're just having some boring class discussions that are actually straying away from the topic we were discussing in the first place.
Oh yeah, and Sam... has some influence on me blogging at this particular moment (So this one's for you).
And now It's break time anyways, so I'm not feeling too guilty.

So, What does today's blog bring? An interesting fear that I've been pondering lately.
Recently, for some weird reason, I've been thinking.. What would happen if the world came to an end? I honestly don't know.

Today in tutorial, my prof had an exercise where we had to write down on a small square paper something that we fear and something that we are hopeful of.
I wrote, I fear that one day the world will come to an end and we will all be dead.
& I also said that I'm hopeful to be living in a country where I don't have to worry about getting bombed on everyday of my life.
So, of course my fear thing may sound a bit childish and ridiculous but I realized that it's something that actually scares me. I don't really fear death, but I fear the world coming to an end. Because, really..what do we do when the world comes to an end?? NOTHING, what happens?? i don't know?! Is this something unrealistic to think about? Probably. But I've thought about it quite a bit and I may have sounded really stupid in my tutorial (okay i know i did, because like 3 people laughed at me) But, then it got everyone else thinking..what the hell does happen?
It's one of those questions that I will never have an answer for, but I really want to know. Will the world even come to an end?
Another thing I actually fear is a world war. War is a scary thing, I never really realized it because I luckily haven't experienced it. But I realized, its very possibly for a war to happen at any time. All it takes is one attack and a whole war can begin. It's just scary to think, because I've lived all my life without it, what would happen if it was just spurred upon me?
I'm not prepared. This doesn't mean I'm going to run to my room and make some kinda of war kit..because really, I don't have anything to make one but it scares me.
I'm not sure where all of this thought was really leading, but it's just something that has got me thinking.

Anyways, break time is over. I should pay attention.
at.

Thank God For My Life

2009-02-19T09:27:00.000-05:00

I almost crashed into a van, missed a tree by a few inches and hit a snow bank.
Physical damage: none, thank God, honestly.
Car damage: not so much, front bumper is a little loose.
Mental damage: terrible

Out with the old, in with the new?

2009-02-11T19:23:00.001-05:00

I think I'm starting to grow out of some friendships...the temporary ones. The one's that seemed great for only a really good while (it's like those socks).
You really can't force friendships. Maybe it's because I'm maturing? or maybe its because I'm meeting new people here in University?
Who knows? But it's interesting, I think I might like it.
Though, aside from growing out of these old friendships, I will always keep the best ones.

at.

It's about time for a revolution

2009-02-10T10:23:00.000-05:00

Sometimes, you just need to flip shit.
Build that pile of leaves and jump in it. You don't need to always care.
I really needed this one.
Y'know, I finally threw out those old socks with holes in them. I kept it because, well even if it had holes, people didn't see them, so why couldn't I still wear them? I just realized, it no longer serves its purpose of keeping my feet warm. So out they went.

Sometimes, everyone just needs a wake up call. Unfortunately I've been on snooze for about a month...but I finally got up today. So much has to be done.

at.

I am sick

2009-02-07T20:22:00.000-05:00

February 6, 2009 marks the first time I've been sick this year & this whole entire school year being away from home (that, I must say is impressive --6 months in school away from home with a whole bunch of other people being sick --I finally get it)
I really hate this feeling. I just keep telling myself, 5 more days until I'm home for reading week....and I should be better by then.
Blaaaaahhh....the feelings of hot and cold, a sore throat, a runny nose, and aching body just Isn't that great.

FUCK THE WASHING MACHINE

2009-02-01T14:37:00.000-05:00

FUCK THE FUCKING WASHING MACHINE'S HERE IN RES.
I AM SO ANGRY RIGHT NOW.
My favorite Adidas track pants are torn because of the fucking, crappy, shitty ass washing machines here!!
FUCKKKK

Inauguration

2009-01-22T21:09:00.001-05:00

I Couldn't help but use this picture.

I know I'm not American,
But really, Canadian politics isn't as hype and cool.
Obama's the man. An amazing speaker and an extremely charismatic man, great choice America.
I was amazed by the inauguration and his inspirational speech (fact: did you know a 27 year old helps him w/ his speech?! --that's really impressive actually). The crowd that gathered at the Mall was unbelievable. What an epic, historical moment.

at.

It's Always Nice to do Nothing Sometimes

2009-01-21T19:23:00.000-05:00

At the top of my head, the first biggest news I've got is, We got a house for next year!!
Finally, the stressful house hunting is over, but the academic stress is still tagging along unfortunately.
I put the academic thoughts on hold for about a week because we got caught up in the house thing. Now that that's over with, I'm back to thinking about my future. It's really mind boggling, I know what I want, but I'm just having a hard time with the degrees that I want (in Spanish, History and possible SJP?)
I feel like, first year of University is much more intense and nerve wracking than grade 12, when everyone was freaking out because we all thought that, our University and subject course was like the biggest decision that will ever mold out future. Really, it was nothing. I just realized now that I busted my ass off in grade 12 to get into a University of course, which will then direct me to some sort of path.
I'm now looking at many path's as I have to decide which way I want to go. This is difficult and I still need to do well in school.
I'm officially done my last tutorial for Sociology, so that means I have an extra hour to do nothing on Wednesday's! I should probably be doing something very productive, but I'm doing this.
As of right now, I'm caught up in all my readings so I figured, I'm going to sit around and enjoy doing nothing.

It feels gooooood.
at.

It's Been A While

2009-01-13T10:31:00.000-05:00

So, I feel like its been a while. There are few thing I've been wanting to put down here, but I just haven't had the time. The first week of semester 2 is over, and it felt like I've been here for a month. A few things happened over the past week:

1. I've had yet, another dream of my res building burning. But the weirdest part of this dream was that this time, the fire actually hit my room. I've noticed though, that all of the past dreams I've had of my res or home burning down, none of my stuff was actually burnt down, until this last one. It's like the fire started far from me, but each dream I've had of more fires, the closer it actually got to me. Puzzling.

2. First Friday back, obviously a little bit of partying, Saturday was a nice dinner at Oscar Taylor's which then turned into a real big drunken mess of myself and following this was Sunday the hang over day. I have some damn good friends, who actually take care of me when I'm plastered out of my mind.

But really, it's time to get down to some serious academic work seeing as this weekend was terribly unproductive. Oh well, everybody's got at least one weekend & this was mine.

at.

First Blog of 2009

2009-01-05T20:17:00.001-05:00

It is definitely the year 2009 now, and wow --the years have gone by so fast.
I've been contemplating over the last few days what I should write about for my first blog of 2009. I still don't know, but I want to get some stuff down. Here are a few things that just happent to be on my mind.

One:
New Years was a blast like always. Though, it was probably the worst countdown ever. CNN had a countdown going, until it hit 1 minute left till midnight, the countdown just decided to DISAPPEAR from the screen?!? why?? I don't know. No one even thought about changing the channel, because we were all too busy wondering why the hell CNN didn't have a countdown. So we just watched the ball drop and were like.. HAPP...HAA...(no ...not yet).. HAPPPY..(ohh wait.) K....(ball drops -fireworks go) HAPPPPPY NEWW YEARRR (and that was our cue). How lame eh, but that's a New Year's I won't forget. Either way, it is funny to look back at.

Two:
As it is January 5th, that means that I'm back at school --womp! Got back here yesterday and it's been boring. Checked out the new gym today, it's quite snazzy & I'm lovin' it. Of course, it is packed with people (whose NY's resolutions are to get in shape....so good luck to them).
On the other hand, my New Year Resolution is to go to spanish class every morning!, 5 days a week! Good Luck to me on that --haha. No really, I believe that I can do it :)
Oh, and I suppose a part of that resolution is to, focus better, get into better study habbits while im here, so that in the end --I will actually like my marks!

Three:
I'm listenin to Lil Wayne's album right now, I'm finding it somewhat enjoyable...actually I'm listening to Ms. Officer, and I just can't get enough of that song...haha it just reminds me of a funny situation at home w/ some funny comments...ahh gotta love it. WEEEEOHHHH WEEEOHHH WEEEEE WEEEOHHH WEEEEOHHHH WEEE like a cop car.

That's all I got.

at.

'08 in a wrap

2008-12-31T13:51:00.000-05:00

It seems to me that 2008 was quite the year. It felt like such a long year, but in a way it went by so fast. I still can't believe it's already New Year's Eve and we'll soon be moving into 2009.
This has probably been the most accomplished year thus far in my life. So here's a look at my 2008.

1. Durham Eclipse Trip to Vienna/ Wien Basketball Tournament
2. Grade 12 Year in ALL: Saa, baseball, rugby, Ontario Scholar, Prom.
3. Cuevas Wedding
4. I turned 18 :) and it was fun i guess hahah. Whatever, I am an "adult" - I can buy lottery tickets, vote and buy porn.
5. University Freshman
6. John Mayer, Jonas Brothers, Backstreet's Back!
7. Cottage Memories
8. Gallivanting x 1000
9. Party party hardy!

I wonder how 2009 is going to top this?
Oh wait,
I'll officially be legal. That may work some wonders!

at.

Less 6 inches

2008-12-31T00:27:00.000-05:00

Myself & My awesome cousin Amanda

Two nights ago, I was really bored and randomly decided I wanted to cut my hair real short. It was an impulsive decision and I have not regretted it so far. I'm still trying to get used to it. 6 inches of my hair was just snipped off! YIKES. I still don't really know why I did it, but whatever. It's something new & it's easier to maintain.

at.

Oh yeah, Happy New Year's Eve. Have a crunken night!

A Merry Christmas It Was!

2008-12-26T12:57:00.000-05:00

Like always & every year, nothing beats the annual Family Christmas gathering.
I love it.

On another note, there is one thing about today that I loved aside from my lovely family gathering. This morning when I opened Chris' gift for me, the box said that he had made a donation to the cancer research and y'know what? It felt so nice to see that before I even saw what was inside the box. I don't know why, but it really happy & I had't even seen the actual present yet. This Christmas season, I haven't really been into it and to see between all the craziness of with shopping and how mad it's made me, I was so happy to know that my gift from him wasn't just a gift for me. It was a little inch towards helping others. I know it may just be a donation to some, but it just really made me happy to see that he did that. I did infact love the actual gift, but somehow I felt alot more from seeing that sticker of a donation. Just a little something that I realized how much it hit me.

All for now, at.

P.S Merry Christmas Shotta!

What A Day

2008-12-23T22:11:00.001-05:00

What a day it was today! Tobogganing was probably the most awesome thing I've done with friends in a long time. HAHA, had some really good times today tobogganing on St. Pat's hill with my bro's, Darryl, Sam and Max, then visited Rhea who's home for a few days from school! :)
Haven't had this much fun and crazy continuous laughter in a long time.

at.

Last Minute Christmas Shopper

2008-12-23T11:27:00.000-05:00

Uggh, so It seems that I've fallen deeply in the pot of the last minute Christmas shoppers.
I've probably had all the time in the world to start, and have thought about it countless times while sitting here in front of my laptop, but I never actually went out at did it.
It's now December 23/08 and I'm not quite done. I went to the mall yesterday, and it was just complete madness. I mean, I love shopping, but I don't think I really like Christmas shopping, just because the malls are so packed, and I never know what to get people, so I just keep walking around aimlessly accomplishing just about nothing.
Plus, as holly and jolly the season is, there's just something about it that makes me a little upset. Kinda the fact that, I'm so lucky to have everything that I do, meanwhile others don't have anything. I don't want to say that I feel sorry for them because I don't, in fact I admire them because without all the materialistic things, they're all so much more happier than many people that I know. There is no greed and craziness over stupid Christmas shopping. I think, one day I'd like to spend Christmas elsewhere, where all of this North American life style is out of my way.
I need to go out and get everything together.

at.

don't push it, pull it.

2008-12-19T03:16:00.000-05:00

I am the pull
& It's all because of my passion
It may sometimes be looked upon as my greatest downfall.
But oh well, that is who I am and I'm just going to keep on pulling.

Finally

2008-12-18T03:51:00.000-05:00

So, unfortunately I missed Raymond's ownage reaction due to my sleepiness, but apparently it was successful and he was dumb enough to fall for it twice. HAHAHA!

But anyways, today was quite a busy day. I visited Notre Dame and caught up with a few people in which it's always nice to see them. Went to Amanda's to do her hair for semi and then went to the Eclipse basketball practice to visit everyone else there. This day has been long. Though, throughout everything that I've done today and how great it was to finally see some people that I haven't seen in a while, there was one thing in particular that really made my day.

We received a christmas card from the child that my family has sponsored in the Philippines and since we've sponsored him, we haven't written him any letters back. I've always meant to and always wanted to. But I never knew what to say, or how to say things, because it really isn't an easy letter to write. In fact, he pretty much doesn't know us, he just know that my mom is his sponsor. So when we recieved the Christmas card that he made for us, this time, I really wanted to respond back. I mean, he at least deserves something, but no one else in this family is actually willing to write something... So about 15 minutes ago, I just finished writing him a letter back, introducing myself and apologizing for never writing. I even drew little Christmas pictures at the end of my letter to go along with the festive time of the year wishing him and his family a Happy Holidays.

It really felt accomplishing and I'm happy to have finally done that.

at.

Awaiting Raymond's Ownage

2008-12-17T00:06:00.000-05:00

HAHAH
I'm waking up at 6am tomorrow morning just to watch Raymond get owned by Chris in Animal Crossing Wii.
It's going to be LEGENDARY.
Oh man, I just know it. Every time I think about it, I laugh.
Also, I accidentally snitched on Raymond today about sitting on the stairs when he should have been in bed. HAHAH!! The look on Dad's face --"The Oh I'm going to get you" look was TOO good! and Raymond attempt at a sneaky get away, as if he thought he was being slick! Man, what a jokes night here at home.

at.

66.67% Complete

2008-12-13T16:17:00.000-05:00

Saturday December 13, 2008 (4:18pm)
I don't really want to study. But what's new?
This morning I completed my second exam, so that brings me to 66.67% done my exams (or other words known as 2/3 exams completed). I should probably start studying for my last exam now, as that is on Monday. But of course I have no motivation what so ever to study. I just woke up from a 3 hour nap, and it was pretty good. I didn't realize how tired I was. I really just want to get this last exam over with and go home.
Home is so good. My week long trip and break home this week was so relaxing. Stayed home, decorated the house, hung out with family, brought B to the dentist to get his wisdom teeth out (which was quite entertaining). The week was pretty low key and nice. I can't wait for my Christmas break to begin. But oh well, that will be something I can worry about when I get back. Studying should really be the first thing on my mind, but unfortunately procrastination is.
4:25 pm, I'll grab an early dinner --because studying needs to happen this evening.

Try Something New

2008-12-04T21:31:00.000-05:00

Nine Thirty-Two PM:

As i'm sitting on my bed here in residence trying to study (but end up watching "Forgetting Sarah Marshall") lots of things begin to cross my mind because well, studying is boring of course. 2008 is almost at it's end and I feel like trying something new. Which would be this; blogging. Why? I don't know, well I mean, it's kind of cool and it'll be funny to read over after a couple years yknow? and, it's a cooler way of just putting down thoughts. It could be the changes within the last few months with me being on my own here in London for University, or is it being away from a family that is so close knit, that a month away from them is just insane!? or What If i don't really feel like talking to anyone about stuff, but I just want to get things out of my head? What about the times that I'm filled with happiness and excitement, and OH, i wanna blog it! or what the hell, i just wanna put some shit down. How was my day? What went on? y'know..the geeky stuff...the stuff people just BLOG about. Whatever, as corny, cheesy or stupid and typical as this may sound...it's a blog. What else are you suppose to do with it?
Being away from home, I've learned to enjoy my own personal time and just be whatever and i'm deciding to add this to it.
It should be fun and it will fill up some spare time or procrastinating time...and, hey this year was the start of a different part of life...college life & so far i'm enjoying it.

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