Happy Wednesday, everyone!
Though this blog may be a couple of days late, I was busy having the time of my life in NYC with my friends for the weekend. I would say sorry, but I'm not. The city is truly a different world. This week, I will tell you a little bit about my experiences in NYC and how it differs from what I am accustomed to.
Having a car is a legitimate blessing.
After having to smell dirty people on the subway, falling over countless times on the subway, waiting for a bus and freezing my face off while walking through the city; I have never missed my Jetta more. I cannot imagine what it would be like to only have public transportation to rely on. In fact, I would have an anxiety attack every day.
Cab drivers rarely obey the speed limit and most traffic laws.
Last year, when I visited New York City, our cab driver rolled through a red light and hit a pedestrian in a crosswalk and then proceeded to drive away. When our friend yelled, "Sir, you just hit an individual" he grew angry at us. This time around, none of our drivers ran anyone over, but I did personally fear for my life on multiple occasions. From my friend's apartment to the Newark airport, I looked up twice from my phone to observe my surroundings. Once, we were cruising at a speed of 86mph and the second time my cab driver was slamming on the breaks only to come within inches of smashing the back bumper of the car in front of us on the highway.
The term "brunch" is used very loosely.
Where I come from, the term "brunch" is a fancy word for a late breakfast complete with coffee and a Belgium waffle. In NYC, brunch is a fancy word for drink your face off. Luckily, I was given a heads up to the events that were about to take place. Joel's birthday celebration at "brunch" was an absolute blast. I must say, walking back out of the club into the city at 4p.m. and realizing that it was still day time but my friends and I were wrecked was a new experience. Bottomless mimosas, screw drivers, bellinis, and bloody mary's will get you... every time.
It's not just Pittsburgh that houses straight-forward and idiotic men.
No, I do not want to come back to your apartment with you, and saying "got it?" as if I don't have a decision in the matter makes me want cause you physical bodily harm. Don't reach over and grab my phone when I'm on it, I don't even know you and I already hate you. It is not and will not ever be socially acceptable to grab my face while walking by me in a bar. I don't know you, and I certainly don't want to make out with you. Based on what I've seen of you, there is a 95% chance that you probably have mouth herpes. No, I will not give you my phone number after you just hooked up with my friend two hours ago.
No matter where you are and how outrageous you think you're being, someone around your general vacinity is outdoing you.
When Ana and I did cartwheels in the street, we were overshadowed by the homeless woman screaming in everyone's face as they exited the bar. When we rolled into the pizza shop 20 deep, the woman in the heels and full-length fur coat really took the attention off of us. When Meg got up on the booth at the bar and slapped the wall over and over again while singing at 6p.m. no one even batted an eyelash. When we went to the diner at 3a.m. with fifteen people, the table next to us had 20 people that thought they were on the cast of the Jersey Shore; all too tan and wearing animal print dresses.
People are continuously unaware of their surroundings.
If you know me, you know that my biggest pet peeve is slow walkers. This annoyance grew ten-fold in NYC. People that walk off of the subway and stop dead in everyone else's way is possibly the most annoying thing that I have ever witnessed. I understand that the city has big buildings and things that you may want to take photos of. But, before doing so, please get out of the way. You aren't the only person walking in downtown Manhattan. Get a grip.
Every now and then and when you least expect it, you meet someone that stands out from everyone else. This one is self-explanatory.
Other funny events:
Picked up a boy out of a potted plant outside of a bar. Next thing we know, he is in the cab with us. Said boy has an English accent, but tells us that he is from Denver. From this point on, I called him "taken." Ana falls out of a cab at a red light. Scott loses a bet and has to come to Pittsburgh to drive my friends and I around for a night whenever I say so. We spent most of the weekend talking about whether or not every girl is capable of certain sexual acts. We also spent some time asking men if they have ever witnessed said acts. A stranger asks me if I want to "sext" him. We watched a brawl in the middle of a bar in Hoboken. Evan and I do high kicks in the middle of the sidewalk after knowing each other for roughly ten minutes. I'm sure there is more, but I had too many beverages to remember it all.
That's all for now. I will write promptly next week. My birthday is next month so I suggest everyone mentally prepares themselves for what is about to go down. Andrea, I cannot wait to see you when you visit!
I hope that everyone has a great week and weekend,
Here's to enjoying our youth,
Xoxo
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Monday, February 11, 2013
Gym Etiquette 101
Good morning and happy Monday!
I hope that everyone had a fantastic weekend and is ready for another productive week of work. As I type this blog, I am watching the Grammys and what I can tell you about what I've seen so far is Wiz was high as a kite when he selected his outfit, Alicia Keys and Adam Levine are a hell of a duo, Justin Timberlake still has it and Christ Brown probably feels like a real dummy for punching Frank Ocean in the face last weekend and then having to watch him win a Grammy. Talk about karma.
The topic for this blog initially sprouted when I ran eight miles at the gym early last week only to turn around and see a table full of pizza. My gym celebrated it's one year anniversary and we celebrated it with..... pizza? To be fair, there was also some fruit. But, isn't pizza part of the problem that landed some people at the gym in the first place? You know what else landed people at the gym? Perpetual laziness and the inability to peel yourself off of the couch and away from the television. But, luckily for those people, you can still come to the gym AND watch television! Anchored directly above nearly every piece of cardio equipment, there is a television.
Every single time I go to the gym, I turn off the television above my machine and place the remote control on the floor. It's weird but I actually need the cup holder to hold my water bottle, so I don't have anywhere to place a remote. Yet, every time I do an extended workout, somewhere between four and five people will walk up to me and try to hand me the remote control off of the floor. No way I would have ever elected to ever pass the opportunity to watch Judge Judy while running, right? Wrong. If you want to watch daytime television and walk at the speed of slow on a treadmill, then you should watch television in your living room and march in place.
Mind your own business and don't look at my machine. Yes, I am running faster than you. Let me worry about that my pace and distance. It's that simple.
You know whenever you go to the dentist and he asks you a question while his hands are all up in your mouth, knowing damn well that you can't answer? If you see me running at the gym, imagine that there is a dentist cleaning my teeth.... I do not want to talk to you. Don't come and stand by my machine and wait for me to pull out my headphones. That's honestly weird. I'm focused and I'm sweating; get away from me.
Don't hop off of your machine and head home; clean it. Even if you were standing on the tredmill watching Days of Our Lives, you better go get the cleaning solution. To simply touch anything in an environment where everyone is sweating is enough to warrant a little clean sweep.
Don't stand outside of the gym and chain smoke cigarettes. If I am just getting to the gym, I don't want to eat your smoke on the way in and if I just finished a workout I don't want to chance my perfectly good health on your dumb addiction. Smoke in your car where you can't harm anyone but yourself.
If you go to the bathroom, wash your hands after. As I mentioned, we already have to worry about touching someone else's sweat. No one wants to touch weights after you had your pee hands on them.
Leave your phone in your bag. If you can talk on the phone AND work out at the same time, you aren't working out hard enough. No one wants to hear your phone conversation and no one that is waiting for a machine is going to like it when you're taking a personal call and they're wasting their time watching you instead of working out.
Lastly, and far fetched, do not try to slip me your phone number at the gym. I didn't come here to find a boyfriend. Don't try to leave your phone number on my car. YES, this ACTUALLY happened. This made for an incredibly awkward moment as I ran directly into the individual while trying to get into my car during a rain storm.
This week's blog shout out goes to my two favorite people that recently landed themselves on the injured list. Angelo had a surgical procedure after he pulled an ambitious trick on a snowboard. Secondly, Jeremy gets the shout out as well. Jeremy blew out his ankle on the south side last weekend while trying to run after Caitlynn who was "so excited to see Sara and couldn't stop running." Angelo is using his injury to pick up girls. Jeremy spent his week with a swollen ankle and being bullied by me over and over again. Love you both.
I am headed to NYC this weekend with my friend Scott to spend some time with Sara K, Joel and Ana. If you know these people, you know that I will need some good thoughts because they party a bit harder than I do.
Until next week; here's to practicing proper gym etiquette,
Xoxo <3
I hope that everyone had a fantastic weekend and is ready for another productive week of work. As I type this blog, I am watching the Grammys and what I can tell you about what I've seen so far is Wiz was high as a kite when he selected his outfit, Alicia Keys and Adam Levine are a hell of a duo, Justin Timberlake still has it and Christ Brown probably feels like a real dummy for punching Frank Ocean in the face last weekend and then having to watch him win a Grammy. Talk about karma.
The topic for this blog initially sprouted when I ran eight miles at the gym early last week only to turn around and see a table full of pizza. My gym celebrated it's one year anniversary and we celebrated it with..... pizza? To be fair, there was also some fruit. But, isn't pizza part of the problem that landed some people at the gym in the first place? You know what else landed people at the gym? Perpetual laziness and the inability to peel yourself off of the couch and away from the television. But, luckily for those people, you can still come to the gym AND watch television! Anchored directly above nearly every piece of cardio equipment, there is a television.
Every single time I go to the gym, I turn off the television above my machine and place the remote control on the floor. It's weird but I actually need the cup holder to hold my water bottle, so I don't have anywhere to place a remote. Yet, every time I do an extended workout, somewhere between four and five people will walk up to me and try to hand me the remote control off of the floor. No way I would have ever elected to ever pass the opportunity to watch Judge Judy while running, right? Wrong. If you want to watch daytime television and walk at the speed of slow on a treadmill, then you should watch television in your living room and march in place.
Mind your own business and don't look at my machine. Yes, I am running faster than you. Let me worry about that my pace and distance. It's that simple.
You know whenever you go to the dentist and he asks you a question while his hands are all up in your mouth, knowing damn well that you can't answer? If you see me running at the gym, imagine that there is a dentist cleaning my teeth.... I do not want to talk to you. Don't come and stand by my machine and wait for me to pull out my headphones. That's honestly weird. I'm focused and I'm sweating; get away from me.
Don't hop off of your machine and head home; clean it. Even if you were standing on the tredmill watching Days of Our Lives, you better go get the cleaning solution. To simply touch anything in an environment where everyone is sweating is enough to warrant a little clean sweep.
Don't stand outside of the gym and chain smoke cigarettes. If I am just getting to the gym, I don't want to eat your smoke on the way in and if I just finished a workout I don't want to chance my perfectly good health on your dumb addiction. Smoke in your car where you can't harm anyone but yourself.
If you go to the bathroom, wash your hands after. As I mentioned, we already have to worry about touching someone else's sweat. No one wants to touch weights after you had your pee hands on them.
Leave your phone in your bag. If you can talk on the phone AND work out at the same time, you aren't working out hard enough. No one wants to hear your phone conversation and no one that is waiting for a machine is going to like it when you're taking a personal call and they're wasting their time watching you instead of working out.
Lastly, and far fetched, do not try to slip me your phone number at the gym. I didn't come here to find a boyfriend. Don't try to leave your phone number on my car. YES, this ACTUALLY happened. This made for an incredibly awkward moment as I ran directly into the individual while trying to get into my car during a rain storm.
This week's blog shout out goes to my two favorite people that recently landed themselves on the injured list. Angelo had a surgical procedure after he pulled an ambitious trick on a snowboard. Secondly, Jeremy gets the shout out as well. Jeremy blew out his ankle on the south side last weekend while trying to run after Caitlynn who was "so excited to see Sara and couldn't stop running." Angelo is using his injury to pick up girls. Jeremy spent his week with a swollen ankle and being bullied by me over and over again. Love you both.
I am headed to NYC this weekend with my friend Scott to spend some time with Sara K, Joel and Ana. If you know these people, you know that I will need some good thoughts because they party a bit harder than I do.
Until next week; here's to practicing proper gym etiquette,
Xoxo <3
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
The Belly Pictures HAVE to Stop
Sorry for the continued delay in my blog posts. I failed to post on Monday morning because I went a little too hard on Sunday night bonging beers for a the Super Bowl that I really didn't care about much at all. Regardless, my friends and I had a blast enjoying our rendition of Sunday Funday.
And now, moving on to the topic at hand...
Over the last couple of weeks I have been dabbling in the idea of deleting my Facebook account based on a multitude of reasons. Honestly, I don't really even know half of the people I am "friends" with on here, and I have a difficult time being rude to most people. Therefore, I talk to almost anyone that messages me, which has gotten me into trouble with some crazy people that genuinely believed that Facebook messages mean that we are partaking in a legitimate relationship with one another.
After talking to some friends about the possibility of deleting my account, we came up with the idea that I would only sign onto it to post witty statuses and that I would continue to promote my blog weekly. Just when I thought I could come to terms with the overwhelming and continuous engagement announcements and wedding photos, I signed onto my account early this morning to see that at the tippy top of my news feed, there was a photo of a girl's pregnant stomach.
Hold the fucking phone.
If you have come to a point in your life that you want to have babies, good for you. I mean it, good for you guys. But I am not at that point in my life, and I do not want to see what happens to your body when you decide to have a child. In fact, I am already absolutely mortified by the idea of having children. She sheer thought of being pregnant makes me physically ill. So, when I log onto a social media website, the absolute last thing that I want to see is your stomach stretched out with a baby inside of it.
You want to capture the moment? Fantastic. I don't blame you. If and when I grow up and decide to have babies, perhaps I will find the need to photograph my belly too. But, rest assured, I will not post my belly pictures for the world to see.
This morning, just as I took my first sip of coffee and clicked on the Facebook app, I shouted out in fear and disgust, "GROSS! You have to be kidding me." As you could imagine, a man sitting next to me asked, "What's wrong?" And when I showed him the belly pic at the top of my news feed, he began telling me about a strategy that he has implemented in order to avoid these pregnancy pictures. When one of his "friends" uploads a belly pic, they automatically get deleted from his feed and when one of his other friends "likes" or comments on said belly pic, they get deleted from his feed also. I think that this is a good temporary fix, so I am going to try that this week.
Also, while we are on the topic... the sonogram pictures freak me out too, specifically the 3D ones. Unless you intend to change your Facebook name to "The Fetus of (your name)" then please please please do not make your profile picture your sonogram photo.
I think that someone should create a new social network aimed specifically for pregnant women. Here, they would be able to share belly pictures and sonogram pictures in an outlet aimed specifically to them. I would call it Pregstagram. If you weren't pregnant, but you enjoyed seeing stretched out stomachs, you could join the site also. At least then, those subscribed would know just what they are in for.
If this post offended you, I apologize but, you are probably the same people that offended my state of mind early this morning.
Additionally, I would like to say hello and I love you to Mary Kate Fullerton and Molly McGregor, because the two of them have been begging me for a blog shout out since the inception of the blog. I will be in NYC next weekend, so I better see you two beauties.
I'll write promptly next week, but in the meantime...
Here's to avoiding the things that absolutely gross us out,
Xoxo <3
And now, moving on to the topic at hand...
Over the last couple of weeks I have been dabbling in the idea of deleting my Facebook account based on a multitude of reasons. Honestly, I don't really even know half of the people I am "friends" with on here, and I have a difficult time being rude to most people. Therefore, I talk to almost anyone that messages me, which has gotten me into trouble with some crazy people that genuinely believed that Facebook messages mean that we are partaking in a legitimate relationship with one another.
After talking to some friends about the possibility of deleting my account, we came up with the idea that I would only sign onto it to post witty statuses and that I would continue to promote my blog weekly. Just when I thought I could come to terms with the overwhelming and continuous engagement announcements and wedding photos, I signed onto my account early this morning to see that at the tippy top of my news feed, there was a photo of a girl's pregnant stomach.
Hold the fucking phone.
If you have come to a point in your life that you want to have babies, good for you. I mean it, good for you guys. But I am not at that point in my life, and I do not want to see what happens to your body when you decide to have a child. In fact, I am already absolutely mortified by the idea of having children. She sheer thought of being pregnant makes me physically ill. So, when I log onto a social media website, the absolute last thing that I want to see is your stomach stretched out with a baby inside of it.
You want to capture the moment? Fantastic. I don't blame you. If and when I grow up and decide to have babies, perhaps I will find the need to photograph my belly too. But, rest assured, I will not post my belly pictures for the world to see.
This morning, just as I took my first sip of coffee and clicked on the Facebook app, I shouted out in fear and disgust, "GROSS! You have to be kidding me." As you could imagine, a man sitting next to me asked, "What's wrong?" And when I showed him the belly pic at the top of my news feed, he began telling me about a strategy that he has implemented in order to avoid these pregnancy pictures. When one of his "friends" uploads a belly pic, they automatically get deleted from his feed and when one of his other friends "likes" or comments on said belly pic, they get deleted from his feed also. I think that this is a good temporary fix, so I am going to try that this week.
Also, while we are on the topic... the sonogram pictures freak me out too, specifically the 3D ones. Unless you intend to change your Facebook name to "The Fetus of (your name)" then please please please do not make your profile picture your sonogram photo.
I think that someone should create a new social network aimed specifically for pregnant women. Here, they would be able to share belly pictures and sonogram pictures in an outlet aimed specifically to them. I would call it Pregstagram. If you weren't pregnant, but you enjoyed seeing stretched out stomachs, you could join the site also. At least then, those subscribed would know just what they are in for.
If this post offended you, I apologize but, you are probably the same people that offended my state of mind early this morning.
Additionally, I would like to say hello and I love you to Mary Kate Fullerton and Molly McGregor, because the two of them have been begging me for a blog shout out since the inception of the blog. I will be in NYC next weekend, so I better see you two beauties.
I'll write promptly next week, but in the meantime...
Here's to avoiding the things that absolutely gross us out,
Xoxo <3
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
Things You Never Say to a Woman
Happy Tuesday morning, everyone!
Please forgive me for my lengthy interim period of blogging (or a lack there of). I have been very busy but don't you worry- I have got some material for you. Special thank you to Andrea, who reminds me every day how long it has been since I last blogged and guilt tripped me into writing this very entry even after I ran inclined intervals and did yoga.
If you know me at all, you know that when I make a mistake or when I am blatantly wrong, I always say so. Now, if I didn't tell anyone about this, they would never know. However, I think this story is important to share. Two weeks ago I got ready and headed out to the bars with my girlfriends and did not return to my house until the next morning. When I got home and walked into my bedroom, there was a strange smell in my room that much resembled that of a toaster oven.
I walked across the room to find that not only had I left my straightener plugged in, but I had also left it on the floor directly on my carpet. I am telling this story because I want everyone to know that I'm an idiot but more importantly, I am telling this story because I want everyone to know that my carpet is perfectly fine. No holes, no burn marks... nothing. Additionally, I have knocked over nail polish remover on the carpet and no, it did not burn a whole through it. The moral of this story is that my mother (and probably yours, too) lied to me through the duration of my childhood.
Moving right along...
This blog topic has been inspired by conversations that I've recently had with my girlfriends regarding their relationships. Now, allow me to quickly emphasize that the following statements that came out of their stupid mouths are the exact reason that I consistently continue to only consider the gym as my boyfriend. The gym doesn't say dumb or hurtful things, just saying. I repeat, the following statements are things that my friend's boyfriends ACTUALLY said to them.
"You're smaller than me, so I should be eating more than you. Don't eat my food."
You would actually have to be an idiot to say something like this to anyone, especially a girl. I am 5'9 but I probably have a stomach the size of an acorn. I am sure that I am "bigger" than some men and I am absolutely certain that they eat more than I do. Your logic, sir, is flawed. Additionally, all men should go ahead and never say anything about a woman's caloric intake. Oh, why? Because girls are crazy. If you make one comment about what we are eating, we will never forget it. Once when I was 13, my mother told me to "suck in my stomach" when we were posing to eighth grade formal pictures. I only ate lettuce for a week. If you watch a girl eat 100 twinkies and you don't like it then walk away and keep your stupid opinions to yourself.
"Yeah, you should be cooking and cleaning all day."
Ohhhh is that what you think? See that's funny. God bless the woman that has to deal with this man or any man that says something like this to her. Pretty sure that if anyone said something like that to me I would do a quick cooking AND cleaning combo by putting bleach into their dinner. Also, if your boyfriend/husband sits on the couch all day and then dictates orders to you and you still stay with him then YOU need to reevaluate your relationship and your life.
"You wouldn't understand."
HAHAHAHAHA. Oh, we wouldn't understand? Here's an idea, why don't you explain it and let our brains decide whether or not we can comprehend the words that you're saying? Instead of avoiding actual human interaction, why don't you set down your video game controller and work on your social skills. This week, I had a man explain something to me that I would not have otherwise understood without an explanation. So, I know that you guys are capable of doing it. Don't take the easy way out. You guys don't understand what it's like trying to carry on a conversation with someone that constantly doubts our ability to comprehend facts and figures. You guys also don't understand what it's like to have your period, and don't even get me started on that.
"I'll pay, I make more money than you."
Um, ouch? You know the kind of girls that like to hear that? The ones that wouldn't offer to pay for anything in the first place. Most times, we have a firm understanding of how much money you make and we certainly are aware of how much we clear after taxes. Girls offer to pay things because they are nice, not because they think that they are rich. If a girl wants to pay for something, just let her. If you fall for a girl that likes it when you say something like that, then I sincerely hope that you enjoy your miserable marriage.
Additionally, if you would not say something to a woman's face, then don't you dare text it to her. Here is what is funny about texting; it really makes people a lot more brave than they actually are in real life. Don't pick a fight with me through a text and then act like we are BFFs when I see you in person. If I say something in a text message, I mean it in the real world too. I won't forget what I said to you and if you were sassy to me via text I will be sure to repay the favor on the very next occasion that I see you. Don't talk a big game through text messages and then be timid in person. No one has time for that, literally.
I hope that everyone has a fantastic week of work and gets a chance to enjoy the warmer weather this week. I'll be distance training on Wednesday at the park if anyone would like to join.
Here's to using our brains before we produce words,
I love everyone.
Xoxo
Please forgive me for my lengthy interim period of blogging (or a lack there of). I have been very busy but don't you worry- I have got some material for you. Special thank you to Andrea, who reminds me every day how long it has been since I last blogged and guilt tripped me into writing this very entry even after I ran inclined intervals and did yoga.
If you know me at all, you know that when I make a mistake or when I am blatantly wrong, I always say so. Now, if I didn't tell anyone about this, they would never know. However, I think this story is important to share. Two weeks ago I got ready and headed out to the bars with my girlfriends and did not return to my house until the next morning. When I got home and walked into my bedroom, there was a strange smell in my room that much resembled that of a toaster oven.
I walked across the room to find that not only had I left my straightener plugged in, but I had also left it on the floor directly on my carpet. I am telling this story because I want everyone to know that I'm an idiot but more importantly, I am telling this story because I want everyone to know that my carpet is perfectly fine. No holes, no burn marks... nothing. Additionally, I have knocked over nail polish remover on the carpet and no, it did not burn a whole through it. The moral of this story is that my mother (and probably yours, too) lied to me through the duration of my childhood.
Moving right along...
This blog topic has been inspired by conversations that I've recently had with my girlfriends regarding their relationships. Now, allow me to quickly emphasize that the following statements that came out of their stupid mouths are the exact reason that I consistently continue to only consider the gym as my boyfriend. The gym doesn't say dumb or hurtful things, just saying. I repeat, the following statements are things that my friend's boyfriends ACTUALLY said to them.
"You're smaller than me, so I should be eating more than you. Don't eat my food."
You would actually have to be an idiot to say something like this to anyone, especially a girl. I am 5'9 but I probably have a stomach the size of an acorn. I am sure that I am "bigger" than some men and I am absolutely certain that they eat more than I do. Your logic, sir, is flawed. Additionally, all men should go ahead and never say anything about a woman's caloric intake. Oh, why? Because girls are crazy. If you make one comment about what we are eating, we will never forget it. Once when I was 13, my mother told me to "suck in my stomach" when we were posing to eighth grade formal pictures. I only ate lettuce for a week. If you watch a girl eat 100 twinkies and you don't like it then walk away and keep your stupid opinions to yourself.
"Yeah, you should be cooking and cleaning all day."
Ohhhh is that what you think? See that's funny. God bless the woman that has to deal with this man or any man that says something like this to her. Pretty sure that if anyone said something like that to me I would do a quick cooking AND cleaning combo by putting bleach into their dinner. Also, if your boyfriend/husband sits on the couch all day and then dictates orders to you and you still stay with him then YOU need to reevaluate your relationship and your life.
"You wouldn't understand."
HAHAHAHAHA. Oh, we wouldn't understand? Here's an idea, why don't you explain it and let our brains decide whether or not we can comprehend the words that you're saying? Instead of avoiding actual human interaction, why don't you set down your video game controller and work on your social skills. This week, I had a man explain something to me that I would not have otherwise understood without an explanation. So, I know that you guys are capable of doing it. Don't take the easy way out. You guys don't understand what it's like trying to carry on a conversation with someone that constantly doubts our ability to comprehend facts and figures. You guys also don't understand what it's like to have your period, and don't even get me started on that.
"I'll pay, I make more money than you."
Um, ouch? You know the kind of girls that like to hear that? The ones that wouldn't offer to pay for anything in the first place. Most times, we have a firm understanding of how much money you make and we certainly are aware of how much we clear after taxes. Girls offer to pay things because they are nice, not because they think that they are rich. If a girl wants to pay for something, just let her. If you fall for a girl that likes it when you say something like that, then I sincerely hope that you enjoy your miserable marriage.
Additionally, if you would not say something to a woman's face, then don't you dare text it to her. Here is what is funny about texting; it really makes people a lot more brave than they actually are in real life. Don't pick a fight with me through a text and then act like we are BFFs when I see you in person. If I say something in a text message, I mean it in the real world too. I won't forget what I said to you and if you were sassy to me via text I will be sure to repay the favor on the very next occasion that I see you. Don't talk a big game through text messages and then be timid in person. No one has time for that, literally.
I hope that everyone has a fantastic week of work and gets a chance to enjoy the warmer weather this week. I'll be distance training on Wednesday at the park if anyone would like to join.
Here's to using our brains before we produce words,
I love everyone.
Xoxo
Monday, January 14, 2013
A Little Lesson on Self Respect
Happy unseasonably warm Monday morning to all of you!
Last week was enchanting. Work went just wonderfully and I finally feel as though I am getting into the groove of my new place of work. My crew made many accomplishments over the last couple of weeks and for that I am grateful. I couldn't be more proud of everyone at 176 that has been and will continue to be apart of the 176 transformation. You guys are awesome.
On Thursday of last week, the management teams from the Pittsburgh districts got together for a company outing. About 20 of us went bowling and Jesse had his record bowling score of 40. Yep, 40. Maranol nearly bowled a ball into the next lane AND popped a bottle of champagne in the bowling alley that was otherwise filled with adult men in a bowling league. If we played "what didn't belong," it would have been us. But, we had a blast. I am thankful to have a job that has surrounded me with such great people over the last two years.
On Saturday evening, some of these same friends and I went out in the city and danced the night away in a club with a tremendous amount of falling confetti and old rap songs. At any rate, an incident that took place on Saturday is what inspired me to write this very blog. As we were walking along East Carson Street around 12:30a.m., a heavily intoxicated man stopped me.
Stranger: Excuse me.
Me: Yes? (thinking that one of my friends had dropped something on the sidewalk)
Stranger: Do you want to have sex with me?
Me: Oh? No thank you.
Stranger: I make tall babies.
Me: I'm sure I would also. No thank you, though.
Stranger: We could make basketball players.
TJ: Hey man, stop talking to her.
Stranger: Okay dude. Fuck off.
But after this happened I couldn't help but think, has this idiot used this same pick up line on other occasions and has it ever worked on an unsuspecting and heavily intoxicated female on the south side? Here are the conclusions that I have arrived at based only on the knowledge that I have of the situation. A. Even if this man was so drunk that he had his stomach pumped shortly after participating in this conversation with me, there is absolutely no excuse for ever talking to another human being like that EVER. And B. If any girl has ever talked to or slept with this man, they have no respect for themselves whatsoever.
But, it's not just this guy or any girl who has given him the time of day.
We all know people that continuously allow others to take advantage of them. Here is a little tip for anyone who allows themselves to be treated like a doormat: No one will ever respect you until you respect yourself. If you set low expectations for yourself, no one will ever strive to give you what you truly deserve. If you consistently make bad decisions, date an absolute moron, or hangout with a group of people that no one respects, then do not expect people to respect you the way that you deserve to be respected. The people that you surround yourself with have a direct correlation with the way that people perceive you. Don't forget that.
My advice to you?
Surround yourself with good people. People like TJ. Whenever an idiot bothers you, the TJ's of the world will be sure that they leave you alone.
Listen to your parents. If they don't like your friends; there is probably a very good reason for that. When I was younger, my parents couldn't stand one of my friends. After a few years, I saw that their perception of my friend was absolutely correct. She was a shit friend with a horrendous attitude.
Set high expectations for your quality of life. Don't settle for anything less than you deserve, because you deserve the absolute best of everything. You'll have to believe me on this one until you have a moment of realization.
Above all else, remember who you are and what you stand for. If you don't stand for something you will fall for absolutely anything. Set goals for yourself and achieve them. Stand by your beliefs. Know who you are with absolutely no help from anyone else. And, most importantly, don't allow anyone else to taint your beliefs.
Here's to respecting yourself and allowing others to follow suit,
Have a fantastic week!
Xoxo <3
Last week was enchanting. Work went just wonderfully and I finally feel as though I am getting into the groove of my new place of work. My crew made many accomplishments over the last couple of weeks and for that I am grateful. I couldn't be more proud of everyone at 176 that has been and will continue to be apart of the 176 transformation. You guys are awesome.
On Thursday of last week, the management teams from the Pittsburgh districts got together for a company outing. About 20 of us went bowling and Jesse had his record bowling score of 40. Yep, 40. Maranol nearly bowled a ball into the next lane AND popped a bottle of champagne in the bowling alley that was otherwise filled with adult men in a bowling league. If we played "what didn't belong," it would have been us. But, we had a blast. I am thankful to have a job that has surrounded me with such great people over the last two years.
On Saturday evening, some of these same friends and I went out in the city and danced the night away in a club with a tremendous amount of falling confetti and old rap songs. At any rate, an incident that took place on Saturday is what inspired me to write this very blog. As we were walking along East Carson Street around 12:30a.m., a heavily intoxicated man stopped me.
Stranger: Excuse me.
Me: Yes? (thinking that one of my friends had dropped something on the sidewalk)
Stranger: Do you want to have sex with me?
Me: Oh? No thank you.
Stranger: I make tall babies.
Me: I'm sure I would also. No thank you, though.
Stranger: We could make basketball players.
TJ: Hey man, stop talking to her.
Stranger: Okay dude. Fuck off.
But after this happened I couldn't help but think, has this idiot used this same pick up line on other occasions and has it ever worked on an unsuspecting and heavily intoxicated female on the south side? Here are the conclusions that I have arrived at based only on the knowledge that I have of the situation. A. Even if this man was so drunk that he had his stomach pumped shortly after participating in this conversation with me, there is absolutely no excuse for ever talking to another human being like that EVER. And B. If any girl has ever talked to or slept with this man, they have no respect for themselves whatsoever.
But, it's not just this guy or any girl who has given him the time of day.
We all know people that continuously allow others to take advantage of them. Here is a little tip for anyone who allows themselves to be treated like a doormat: No one will ever respect you until you respect yourself. If you set low expectations for yourself, no one will ever strive to give you what you truly deserve. If you consistently make bad decisions, date an absolute moron, or hangout with a group of people that no one respects, then do not expect people to respect you the way that you deserve to be respected. The people that you surround yourself with have a direct correlation with the way that people perceive you. Don't forget that.
My advice to you?
Surround yourself with good people. People like TJ. Whenever an idiot bothers you, the TJ's of the world will be sure that they leave you alone.
Listen to your parents. If they don't like your friends; there is probably a very good reason for that. When I was younger, my parents couldn't stand one of my friends. After a few years, I saw that their perception of my friend was absolutely correct. She was a shit friend with a horrendous attitude.
Set high expectations for your quality of life. Don't settle for anything less than you deserve, because you deserve the absolute best of everything. You'll have to believe me on this one until you have a moment of realization.
Above all else, remember who you are and what you stand for. If you don't stand for something you will fall for absolutely anything. Set goals for yourself and achieve them. Stand by your beliefs. Know who you are with absolutely no help from anyone else. And, most importantly, don't allow anyone else to taint your beliefs.
Here's to respecting yourself and allowing others to follow suit,
Have a fantastic week!
Xoxo <3
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
2012 In Review
Happy Wednesday to every one of you.
As many of you noticed, I didn't blog last week. However, it's not because I wanted to neglect anyone. I just so happened to be pretty busy. Luckily for all of you who have taken up an interest in my life, I have spent the last few days reading through journals from this past year. In a few short moments, you will be enjoying a small portion of the most entertaining things that have happened in 2012.
In early 2012, I learned that even if everyone else has bad things to say about your boyfriend, he can actually be a good person. Later in 2012, I realized that I was stupid. No matter how old you are or how much advice you get, it seems like you can only learn lessons from your own mistakes.
In March, I purchased a $1600 plane ticket to go to Germany. In May, I exchanged that ticket to travel abroad and decided to go to Hawaii with my family. This trip was magical. The flight was way too long but the resort and the beaches were amazing and beautiful. Perhaps I will live there someday.
In March, I celebrated my 24th birthday with everyone that is close to me. I was late to my own birthday party, watched Jesse clear off the bar with his crazy hand gestures, drank way too much, and barfed the entire way home. About a month ago, I barfed at a bar again. Really, 2012 just confirmed the idea that I am not a good drinker. I'm sure that 2013 will stay consistent with the years of drinking past.
In May, I ran my first half marathon. This was definitely in the top five best experiences of my entire life. I cannot even begin to describe the sense of accomplishment that I felt upon completing 13 miles of running. I am already registered for this year's Pittsburgh marathon in May, and I encourage anyone and everyone to participate.
Cue a dramatic email/facebook chat break up.
Also in May, I headed to Ithaca, NY to visit my friend Andrea. We had an absolute blast hiking through the woods to see the waterfalls and of course chugging wine at the winery. I hope that 2013 brings us to each other again.
In June, I got promoted to be the queen of the castle at the South Hills Hco. Store number 333 was the most perfect first store ever. To every single individual there, I love you so much. My life was touched by all of you and I will adore each one of you forever. Jess got promoted out of my store and I couldn't be more proud of her! I trained my first MIT there and she is just an angel. And, although Zach doesn't read this, he is the most genuine human being that I have ever met in my life, and I am blessed to even know him.
In July, someone hit my parked car in the mall parking lot and drove away. This marks the first time in 2012 that I cried. Thanks Jesse, for standing with me while I wallowed in my own misery. Roughly $1400 later, my Jetta was fixed.
In September, I faced by first back to school season as a store manager. It is absolutely baffling to see how crazy moms get in regards to jeans and tee shirts. Also in September, I ventured to Altoona, PA to try on dresses for my best friends wedding! Out of all of my facebook friends that got engaged last year, I can honestly say that I am happy for Jenna to be marrying Ryan this year. I love both of you and I cannot wait to be in the wedding. Carissa and Dave, the same applies to you guys. Pig will be my date, obviously. We will look good together.
In October, I planned to venture to NYC to visit Sara, Joel, and Ana... but hurricane Sandy ruined that for us. Luckily, their apartment building survived the storm and they were able to evacuate for the week of no electricity. In 2013, I will make it back to the big apple to participate in our usual shenanigans.
Novemeber and December brought on my first holiday season as a store manager and I can't believe that I survived. The amount of times that I was verbally assaulted should be illegal in PA. And finally, two weeks ago, just in time for the end of the holiday season... I was promoted again! This promotion came as a shock to me and I still can't believe that I am back at Ross Park leading the crazy show at the busiest store in the city. I am excited to see what we can do with the store. Keela, Kim, and Megan, you guys are awesome and I am so happy to have you as my team! Time to move mountains.
And now, quickly, I'd like to make a list of lessons that I learned in 2012:
* Hard work really does pay off.
* Karma exists, and thank God.
* Some people genuinely suck, no matter how nice you are to them.
* My gay-dar is wayyyyyy off.
* Most people don't consider popcorn to be a food but it obviously is.
* Some guys don't tell you they have a girlfriend until after you make out.
* Most people don't like wine, which is fine cause that means more for me!
* The south side still gets me every single time.
* Apparently getting engaged over the Christmas season is trendy.
* I love the gym more than I may ever love a human being.
* Larger women are very good at pilates and yoga.
* There are very few self-respecting girls left in the world.
* It is much easier to find terrible people than it is to find genuine ones.
* V8 smoothies are delicious.
* Abs are easily attainable.
* Sunday mornings with my lady friends are the perfect end to the week.
* Addiction is a terrible disease.
* No matter what you do, someone won't be pleased. And, that's fine.
* Immaturity still exists in 20-something year old girls.
* Heidi Golden is a saint, and I am happy to know her and work with her.
* Taking chances is absolutely imperative in life.
* Sitting in traffic really can ruin your day.
* Too many people are interested in my height and weight.
* It is sad that people with good health take it for granted.
* Giving to the less fortunate is quite rewarding.
* Generosity creates love.
* Believe nothing that you don't see with your own eyes or hear with your own ears.
* Family comes first. It's sad that some of you can't wrap your head around that, even in adulthood.
* Life is so much easier when you love what you do.
And finally, 2012 was the first year for my blog. Currently, I have 12,156 page views and I have only had the blog for about eight and a half months. I am intrigued and inspired by the fact that so many of you read this on a weekly basis. Every one of you is amazing.
Happy 2013 to all of you. I hope that you find happiness and prosperity in this year, and in your lives.
Here's to kicking off this year on the right foot,
Xoxo
As many of you noticed, I didn't blog last week. However, it's not because I wanted to neglect anyone. I just so happened to be pretty busy. Luckily for all of you who have taken up an interest in my life, I have spent the last few days reading through journals from this past year. In a few short moments, you will be enjoying a small portion of the most entertaining things that have happened in 2012.
In early 2012, I learned that even if everyone else has bad things to say about your boyfriend, he can actually be a good person. Later in 2012, I realized that I was stupid. No matter how old you are or how much advice you get, it seems like you can only learn lessons from your own mistakes.
In March, I purchased a $1600 plane ticket to go to Germany. In May, I exchanged that ticket to travel abroad and decided to go to Hawaii with my family. This trip was magical. The flight was way too long but the resort and the beaches were amazing and beautiful. Perhaps I will live there someday.
In March, I celebrated my 24th birthday with everyone that is close to me. I was late to my own birthday party, watched Jesse clear off the bar with his crazy hand gestures, drank way too much, and barfed the entire way home. About a month ago, I barfed at a bar again. Really, 2012 just confirmed the idea that I am not a good drinker. I'm sure that 2013 will stay consistent with the years of drinking past.
In May, I ran my first half marathon. This was definitely in the top five best experiences of my entire life. I cannot even begin to describe the sense of accomplishment that I felt upon completing 13 miles of running. I am already registered for this year's Pittsburgh marathon in May, and I encourage anyone and everyone to participate.
Cue a dramatic email/facebook chat break up.
Also in May, I headed to Ithaca, NY to visit my friend Andrea. We had an absolute blast hiking through the woods to see the waterfalls and of course chugging wine at the winery. I hope that 2013 brings us to each other again.
In June, I got promoted to be the queen of the castle at the South Hills Hco. Store number 333 was the most perfect first store ever. To every single individual there, I love you so much. My life was touched by all of you and I will adore each one of you forever. Jess got promoted out of my store and I couldn't be more proud of her! I trained my first MIT there and she is just an angel. And, although Zach doesn't read this, he is the most genuine human being that I have ever met in my life, and I am blessed to even know him.
In July, someone hit my parked car in the mall parking lot and drove away. This marks the first time in 2012 that I cried. Thanks Jesse, for standing with me while I wallowed in my own misery. Roughly $1400 later, my Jetta was fixed.
In September, I faced by first back to school season as a store manager. It is absolutely baffling to see how crazy moms get in regards to jeans and tee shirts. Also in September, I ventured to Altoona, PA to try on dresses for my best friends wedding! Out of all of my facebook friends that got engaged last year, I can honestly say that I am happy for Jenna to be marrying Ryan this year. I love both of you and I cannot wait to be in the wedding. Carissa and Dave, the same applies to you guys. Pig will be my date, obviously. We will look good together.
In October, I planned to venture to NYC to visit Sara, Joel, and Ana... but hurricane Sandy ruined that for us. Luckily, their apartment building survived the storm and they were able to evacuate for the week of no electricity. In 2013, I will make it back to the big apple to participate in our usual shenanigans.
Novemeber and December brought on my first holiday season as a store manager and I can't believe that I survived. The amount of times that I was verbally assaulted should be illegal in PA. And finally, two weeks ago, just in time for the end of the holiday season... I was promoted again! This promotion came as a shock to me and I still can't believe that I am back at Ross Park leading the crazy show at the busiest store in the city. I am excited to see what we can do with the store. Keela, Kim, and Megan, you guys are awesome and I am so happy to have you as my team! Time to move mountains.
And now, quickly, I'd like to make a list of lessons that I learned in 2012:
* Hard work really does pay off.
* Karma exists, and thank God.
* Some people genuinely suck, no matter how nice you are to them.
* My gay-dar is wayyyyyy off.
* Most people don't consider popcorn to be a food but it obviously is.
* Some guys don't tell you they have a girlfriend until after you make out.
* Most people don't like wine, which is fine cause that means more for me!
* The south side still gets me every single time.
* Apparently getting engaged over the Christmas season is trendy.
* I love the gym more than I may ever love a human being.
* Larger women are very good at pilates and yoga.
* There are very few self-respecting girls left in the world.
* It is much easier to find terrible people than it is to find genuine ones.
* V8 smoothies are delicious.
* Abs are easily attainable.
* Sunday mornings with my lady friends are the perfect end to the week.
* Addiction is a terrible disease.
* No matter what you do, someone won't be pleased. And, that's fine.
* Immaturity still exists in 20-something year old girls.
* Heidi Golden is a saint, and I am happy to know her and work with her.
* Taking chances is absolutely imperative in life.
* Sitting in traffic really can ruin your day.
* Too many people are interested in my height and weight.
* It is sad that people with good health take it for granted.
* Giving to the less fortunate is quite rewarding.
* Generosity creates love.
* Believe nothing that you don't see with your own eyes or hear with your own ears.
* Family comes first. It's sad that some of you can't wrap your head around that, even in adulthood.
* Life is so much easier when you love what you do.
And finally, 2012 was the first year for my blog. Currently, I have 12,156 page views and I have only had the blog for about eight and a half months. I am intrigued and inspired by the fact that so many of you read this on a weekly basis. Every one of you is amazing.
Happy 2013 to all of you. I hope that you find happiness and prosperity in this year, and in your lives.
Here's to kicking off this year on the right foot,
Xoxo
Sunday, December 16, 2012
Waiting on the World to Change
Good Sunday evening/Monday morning to all of my readers.
Contrary to the name of my blog, I don't know that I can muster up the courage to write about anything happy or hilarious based on the events that took place in our nation over the past week.
In the course of my life, I've done the best I can to keep a positive attitude regardless of what life throws my way. My father was sick for the greater part of my childhood. I watched as my father's health deteriorated year after year. In 2009, when two consecutive years of miracles began gracing my family's presence, I rejoiced. But, I never forgot the pain of the challenging years. Still today, I have strong memories of what it was like to have a heavy heart every single morning as I woke up to another day of life.
I've allowed my heart to be broken, at times; shattered. As I matured, I made the decision to create my own happiness and to never depend on others to put a smile on my face. This has proven incredibly successful for my well being over the years.
On Saturday morning (and Sunday morning) I woke up with a heavy heart again. The first time in years I woke up feeling sad, depressed even. Not from a bad break up or from a sick father, but for the absolute sadness that I feel for the victims of Sandy Hook Elementary, their families, the Newtown commuity, and for our country as a whole. I am in a semi-permanent state of shock and horror and I'm not sure how long it will continue.
What I do know is that these tragedies don't ever go away. No one can bring back the children or adults that lost their lives in Newtown, in Virginia Tech, in Columbine, in a Colorado movie theater, in the mall food court last week, at LA fitness in Pittsburgh two summers ago, or at intersections and in homes and street corners across our country each and every day. All of these tragedies have happened, and unfortunately, the likelihood that more will occur is high.
Instead of arguing about the cause of these tragedies, I encourage everyone to reflect on them, and use them as a tool to become a better person. Evil exists, and there is absolutely no doubt about it. We can't eliminate the evil. We can only work to combat it.
As happy as I am, I can't change the world alone.
This week, and from this point on, I challenge everyone to embrace the good things that are left in the world. I encourage anyone with positivity and happiness left, to try each day to impact someone's life. If we all did this, we may make a dent on all of the negativity and pain in the world.
In a conversation with a friend after the Newtown shooting, he told me "I'm going to stop watching the news and focus on what I can do to improve my life and the lives of those around me." I think that you have the right idea, Wano.
Everyone should ask themselves what they can do for humanity.
The families of the victims and of the demons lives will go on, but they will never forget the pain of their tragedies.
I don't believe that the world will end this month. But, I do believe that the world that we knew up until this point has ended, and I'm not sure that we will ever be able to get that back.
Here's to spreading positivity in a world with so many negatives,
Xoxo
Contrary to the name of my blog, I don't know that I can muster up the courage to write about anything happy or hilarious based on the events that took place in our nation over the past week.
In the course of my life, I've done the best I can to keep a positive attitude regardless of what life throws my way. My father was sick for the greater part of my childhood. I watched as my father's health deteriorated year after year. In 2009, when two consecutive years of miracles began gracing my family's presence, I rejoiced. But, I never forgot the pain of the challenging years. Still today, I have strong memories of what it was like to have a heavy heart every single morning as I woke up to another day of life.
I've allowed my heart to be broken, at times; shattered. As I matured, I made the decision to create my own happiness and to never depend on others to put a smile on my face. This has proven incredibly successful for my well being over the years.
On Saturday morning (and Sunday morning) I woke up with a heavy heart again. The first time in years I woke up feeling sad, depressed even. Not from a bad break up or from a sick father, but for the absolute sadness that I feel for the victims of Sandy Hook Elementary, their families, the Newtown commuity, and for our country as a whole. I am in a semi-permanent state of shock and horror and I'm not sure how long it will continue.
What I do know is that these tragedies don't ever go away. No one can bring back the children or adults that lost their lives in Newtown, in Virginia Tech, in Columbine, in a Colorado movie theater, in the mall food court last week, at LA fitness in Pittsburgh two summers ago, or at intersections and in homes and street corners across our country each and every day. All of these tragedies have happened, and unfortunately, the likelihood that more will occur is high.
Instead of arguing about the cause of these tragedies, I encourage everyone to reflect on them, and use them as a tool to become a better person. Evil exists, and there is absolutely no doubt about it. We can't eliminate the evil. We can only work to combat it.
As happy as I am, I can't change the world alone.
This week, and from this point on, I challenge everyone to embrace the good things that are left in the world. I encourage anyone with positivity and happiness left, to try each day to impact someone's life. If we all did this, we may make a dent on all of the negativity and pain in the world.
In a conversation with a friend after the Newtown shooting, he told me "I'm going to stop watching the news and focus on what I can do to improve my life and the lives of those around me." I think that you have the right idea, Wano.
Everyone should ask themselves what they can do for humanity.
The families of the victims and of the demons lives will go on, but they will never forget the pain of their tragedies.
I don't believe that the world will end this month. But, I do believe that the world that we knew up until this point has ended, and I'm not sure that we will ever be able to get that back.
Here's to spreading positivity in a world with so many negatives,
Xoxo
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