2009 recap

Official on February 27, 2009

Baby Johnny -- born February 2, 2009

Grandma Esther -- went home to God May 3, 2009

December has gone by so fast, I cannot believe that it is already the 31st. The end of a decade. 2000-2009 marked some huge changes. Not just for me, but for the world. New York City (a place I have called home my whole life) suffered a devastating blow in 2001. In 2003, I graduated from high school. In 2006, I started working at my current job. In 2008, I met Jonathan. In 2009, we became official. In 2000, the Yankees won the World Series. And they did it again in '09.

We lost countless of well known celebrities and entertainers. We lost people dear to us.

We gained a new president. Or two.

In February of 2009, we welcomed new life.

But in May, we lost someone we love.

My hope for 2010 is that change is for the better. We will meet new people and lose others, but we those we lose we will see again in eternal life.

In 2010, I will finally get my associates. Will I finally finish THE novel? I hope so!!

Tomorrow night, I will be ringing in the New Year at the Whiskey Tavern downtown. Jonathan, myself, Kim, Vinnie, their friends, I think a few of our own mutual friends, Tiffany, Ashley and hopefully my sister will all be there. Originally J.D, Ash & myself were going to go to his sister's but that did not pan out. Johnny turns 11 months on Saturday so hopefully we get to see everyone then.

Christmas this year was amazing. I spent Eve with Jonathan's family but slept at my parents' that night. On Day, I was with my family but in the evening, Robyn and I went over to Jonathan's and spent the rest of the evening and night there. It's never a dull moment in a house filled with Italians! Also, "Santa" was really good to me this year. I mean really good to me.

Overall, I have no complaints with this year. 2009 treated me well. I returned to Disney World over the summer for the first time since 2001. I really fell in love with that place. Then later in the summer, I went to Hershey Park for the first time. Lots of firsts this year. Forgot to mention...all the weddings I went to! Actually, since meeting Jonathan I think I've been to....three. It feels like more though. And then next year we have more coming up. Boy oh boy. I'm running out of dresses, haha.

Hope everyone has a great New Year's Eve! God bless.

not a creature was stirring...

Real update with pictures & such to come soon! Just wanted to check in before Christmas approaches (which is coming up at a rapid pace).

Tomorrow is my last final and I could not be more thankful that this semester is over with. Two more to go and that diploma is mine!!

My psychology professor promised to pass me "no matter what." I don't know what he meant by "no matter what" but I'm guessing I....passed? =P

Speaking of Christmas, I have always loved the holiday. This time of the year is magical. Yes....magical. You don't have to be a kid to enjoy it!! There's a certain feeling in the air that you can't imitate any other time of the year. If Jesus hadn't come into this world for us, we would have been missing out majorly. So, I think we can all stop and thank Him for a brief moment ;-)

Not to knock St. Nick. That guy knew what he was doing.

Jonathan and I watched more than half of Elf last night before deciding it was bed time. I forgot how much I loved that movie. And how pretty of a voice Zooey Deschanel has. But the real winner is Will Ferrell. I'm not a huge fan but he cracks me up! I love the character of Buddy So gullible & innocent. That scene where Buddy tries to ask out Jovie but says something along the lines of "Want to go get food?" makes me laugh every time.

I've done most of my Christmas shopping, thankfully. The real tough one was Tiffany's. Not because I didn't know what to get but because they said it wouldn't get here until after the new year! Fortunately I got an e-mail saying it was shipped last week. So. Crisis averted.

I'm also excited for Christmas this year because it's Johnny's 1st Christmas and being born into his mommy's family, well, he has no idea what's coming! Because (like I've said a million times so far) his uncle J.D must have been Santa or an elf in his past life. :-)

Things have been good on all fronts. I may even be doing extra work in the new year. Lots of things to be thankful for. 2010 is shaping up to be a fantastic one.

many thanks...

Thanksgiving has come and gone but my thanks have not. I thought I'd take the time out now (even though it's 2AM and I should be already fast asleep!!) to give thanks to a number of things. It's so important to stop and think about what we have in our lives because it's easy to get caught up in the day to day stuff and forget the big picture. Sometimes I catch myself dwelling only on the negative. Thanksgiving is that one day everyone really stops to think of what they're grateful for. That plus tons of delicious food make for a very satisfying holiday.

This year was no exception. We had a feast around 1:30PM (we always eat early) then gathered in the living room upstairs to check out the new Wii Fit. That thing is amazing. It changes your Mii to look like the weight/shape you are after doing the Wii Fit test. Even though my balance is terrible (which I already knew haha) it said my Wii Fit age was 25. Score! The games were the best part -- skiing, skateboarding, balance tests, hula hoops, soccer (I hold an undefeated record!), etc.

It was so much fun that day; I was sad to have to leave. That leads me to the start of my list...

What I'm Thankful For

...that God put me here on this earth. He could have easily decided not to let me born. Instead, he sent me to be the head of the Corrigan siblings. It is a blessing in disguise being the oldest. You worry about everyone. But they look up to you. Their love is unconditional. I am grateful for them. Each one of them (there's 4 of us) teach me something, through their words and actions. We may have grown up in the same household but they're all unique. I admire them.

... my parents unconditional love. No matter how much I mess up or how well I do, their love is the same. They'd walk barefoot for hundreds of miles for us, take a bullet, starve all day, if it meant helping us in some way. They were young parents that sacrificed a lot and continue to do so to this day. I've learned everything about life from these two. They deserve my utmost respect.

...being with someone who shows kindness and respect to everyone. Jonathan is one of the most genuine souls I've ever met. He is real -- he doesn't pretend to be someone he is not. He loves tradition. He's like a kid at heart. You can trust him with your secrets. He may not like coffee but hey, not everyone is perfect! ;-) We became friends so quickly because we are very alike but even though I was stubborn at first, I came around and gave him a chance and it was probably the smartest choice I made all year!

...friends who are there to lend an ear.

...Kimmie's sister Jen getting a second chance at life. Thank you "Fred."

...my sister's love & support. We live together so that automatically earns her brownie points. It's not always easy sharing a dwelling but we make the best of it. We support each other. We listen to each other's problems when we don't want bother anyone else with them. We are a team. Anyone that puts up with my frequent FarmVille use gets an A+ in my book =P

...the roof over my head. No matter how many times I complain about the apartment we live in, it's better than on the streets.

...the food on my plate. I always have somewhere to eat, even though I can't cook to save my life.

...my job. Even with it's crazy hours and even though it's not exactly what I need to create security in my life, it's a good job and without it, I don't know where I'd be!

....Jonathan's family. They have been so warm and welcoming, it's amazing.

...coffee. How would I get through the mornings without you?

...my faith. Without it, I would drown in despair.

...God Himself. He is who I live for and although I would love to be on this earth for a long time, cannot wait to be Home with Him and His Son.

'tis the season

This past Friday I went to Atlas Park with the Graffeo gang and J.D, in what felt like the first Christmasy day of the season (and yes, I know it's not Thanksgiving yet). We ate dinner at California Pizza Kitchen (I'm still day dreaming about that pizza...SO good) followed by a movie. Jim Carrey's version of this beloved tale was much more sinister than I expected and even though I struggled to stay awake at points (not the movies fault, I was seriously sleep deprived that day) I really enjoyed it. Andrea Bocelli's "God Bless Us Everyone" closed the movie and the next day I downloaded it -- beautiful song.

Atlas Park was done up Christmas style so that plus the movie really helped make feel like the holidays are getting closer and closer. Very exciting stuff. This time of the year never gets old, no matter how old I get. This Christmas might be a little different because I'm not sure what the plans are (we usually spend Eve in Long Island with cousins and Day at home). Alex not being here then sucks. But, nevertheless, looking forward to it. Here's all of us in front of the Christmas Bear after the movie let out.

Left to right: Sal, Daniela, Christina, AnnaMarie, Rita, Mike, myself & J.D

By the way, Amazon never fails me! I scored a Yankee DVD (Fall Classics from 1996-2001) for $34 when in the Yankee Clubhouse it was marked at $80! Sweet giblets! Can't wait for this to arrive.

I dream of sandy beaches.

Once in a blue moon, an opportunity will arise that you'd have to be a fool to pass up. Like seeing two friends get married. And attending a Yankee game, with seats right behind the bullpen. Now imagine those two opportunities landing on the same day!!! Just my luck right? Fortunately I found a way to make this work. The game is at 1pm. It should be over by 4, the latest. I don't know what time the reception is because the invites haven't been sent out yet, just the save-the-dates. But it all seems possible. I mean, God doesn't give you anything you can't handle so apparently He thinks I can juggle this wacky schedule I will have on May 15th!! I should note the tickets were a gift so the date of the game was not in my hands. Obviously I would never have chosen this date myself. But I am grateful Tiffany's friend gifted her with this and chose me to go along!

Funny I mentioned Thanksgiving in the post early yesterday because later that night, Alex (my aunt) and I spoke about what it would be like this Thanksgiving. Normally we do a big Thanksgiving feast around 1 or 2 then settle in for a movie that everyone agrees on. But this time, after the feast we are going to be enjoying Alex's gift to Oma, Opa and Michael (my brother). She got them the Wii Fit! With the Wii Olympic games. (I think that's the game she said she got). Those three are the biggest Wii fanatics in the house so that's why it's for them but on Thanksgiving, we're all going to enjoy it. Can't wait! The reason she is giving them their Christmas present on Thanksgiving is because Alex & Moe are going to be in Puerto Rico for 3 weeks. They leave on the 3rd and won't be back until the 28th! So sad they won't be here for Christmas. Last December, when they went to PR, my oma and I went for a week with them. We flew out the last week of their stay and came home with them. It was so much fun and I wish I could go again this year. But I have a feeling we will next winter.

sleepy woes.

Tiffany took this photo of Jorda over the weekend. She had SO much energy on that walk. I should say she walked me not vice versa haha.

Is next week actually Turkey Day?! Not sure what to make of this. Once Thanksgiving is over, you know what that means...Christmas comes out in full force. Not that it hasn't already....

I'm guilty of doing some holiday shopping already. I'm sure my aunt will love what I chose for her. Saw it yesterday while on Austin Street and couldn't pass it up! It's right up her alley.

So last night I stopped by JD's after work, just to hang out for a bit since we wouldn't have a chance to do so until late Wednesday. Felt like watching a movie so I found the '91 version of The Addams Family on MTV. Was really into it....next thing I know, it's 7:30am!! Fortuntely JD drove me home before class so I could grab my books.

Thank God for hats, that's all I have to add.

27!

There's always magic in the air during the post season and if you're lucky enough to have your team go to the World Series, even more so then. The Yankees had an incredible year (103-59) so it was the icing on the cake for them to win the World Series. The teams they played against in the ALCS and then in the WS really made for a good show. I applaud the Angels and the Phillies for putting up a good fight! Would love for the Yanks to do it again next year. I really don't want to see Matsui or Damon go but I understand the need to bring in new and younger players.

When they won on the 4th, there was no way I was going to miss the parade that Friday, the 6th.

What a cutie! This dog was decked out in Yankee gear.

The crowd went a little wild there, throwing people in the air.

Newspapers EVERYWHERE.

Matsui = MVP AND Pedro's daddy :-)

Jay-Z and A-Rod.

Andy Pettite and kids.

Mariano Rivera!! How fitting they should choose him to close out the parade :-)

old fart.

November is off to a beautiful start...

I turned 24 on the 8th and received this gorgeous Yankees bomber jacket from the parents! They definitely went all out this year. This gift was just one of many.


Jonathan and his parents surprised me with a cake at the end of the day! You can NEVER go wrong with ice cream cake.

This beauty (Coach) is my gift from Jonathan. He just earned major brownie points with this gift choice! (not that he needed it) It is a lot more purple in person. I'm afraid to get finger prints on it LOL.

He took my sister and I out to dinner at Jade. It's this fantastic Asian restaurant in Forest Hills. Highly recommended.

Robyn & I.

This really was one of the most memorable birthdays I've had in a good long while! It was just a great day from start to finish. JD & his family were nothing but good to me and the same goes to mine, as well as my close friends and all the birthday wishes I received.

Mr. November...who's it gonna be?

What a way to kick off the month. Yankees are coming home to the Bronx, with a fantastic chance to win the World Series. What better way to christen the new stadium? I have this gut feeling it was all meant to happen this way, with the Core 4 in the lineup for tomorrow. Ah, baseball magic.

I feel like the anti-Yankees slurs are in full force. Haven't heard them this strong since they went against Boston in '04. There are even Yankees fans that are getting nasty with other Yankees fans. Well, not nasty but snide rather. They claim some people are not real fans and just jumping on the bandwagon of a winning team. The Yankee fans get so much grief at times, that it's best to not admit you're a fan of them at times, haha. I think the more supporters, the merrier. I think the key to keeping sane during the baseball season (at least during this point) is to avoid reading anything you know will irk you.

So it turns out having a wedding on Halloween was actually brilliant. I had so much fun and I still got to dress up, albiet not in costume. The ceremony was at 3pm at St. Andrew Avellino Church in Flushing with the reception following at 6pm in the Bronx, at the gorgeous Marina Del Rey. That place was something else. Jonathan's sister got married there two years ago and I'm sure Alexis remembered it from them. Seriously, if you are in the NYC area, I highly recommend it. Location, food, staff, atmopshere were all on their game. I will be posting pictures first chance I get.

Starbucks came out with their Christmas menu already. I'm sipping on a gingerbread latte as I type. This makes me very excited for the holidays. That and I can swear, some evenings...I can smell Christmas coming.

october magic? perhaps.

Even with last night's debacle, I still have faith the Yankees are gonna win it at home. It was kind of like it was meant to be that way. A.J Burnett giving it away like that in the first inning, allowing 4 runs was just...tough to watch. Teixiera saved the day later in the game but Nick Swisher ultimately failed the team. It was kind of laughable that the fate of the game ended with him! (He is pretty much not a reliable guy for a hit.)

So it's safe to say I know what I'll be doing Saturday night!

Tiffany actually came out with me last night to watch the game at a bar near my job. I wanted to be close so that I could run right over to work at the needed time and then run back LOL. Even though Tiff likes to root for, well, not the Yankees, she is still gracious about it so it was pretty funny. And this guy from Australia that started chatting us up (mostly Tiff, since my eyes were glued to the TV), was rooting for the Angels too. He was the sole person clapping every time they got a hit. He was getting some stares, that much is for sure, haha, but an interesting person overall. I feel bad -- because of his Aussie lingo, you know, calling guys 'mate' and stuff, another person assumed he was gay and sent him to Gaslight, downtown. Gaslight is a gay bar. He thought he was there just to watch the game and drink a beer. I hope we showed him not all New Yorkers are rude like that!

MLB mania

It's probably a good thing I don't watch baseball during the regular season. I drive myself into a tizzy during the postseason! The past three ALCS games have been something else. Between the psychology exam today and Game 4, I don't know what I'm more jittery about!

Mariano Rivera -- baseball hero/Game 3

Hip Hip Jorge! (Game 3 -- solo homerun)

A-Rod's HR in Game 2

Tex's great catching skills.

Jeter's solo HR/Game 3

Photo credit: nydailynews.com

weekend wrap up.

I can't believe how fast October is going -- am I really turning 24 in twenty-six days?! Sheesh!

Here's what's been going on lately...

J.D, his parents, sister, nephew & myself tried to make a trip out to Roosevelt Field Mall yesterday, Columbus Day. But halfway there Johnny started wailing to the point where he was going red in the face! Turns out all he needed was hugs from Mommy and a good distraction. Needless to say we didn't make out to the mall but it was quite a car ride! Here he is in his uncle JD's arms after his bout of sobbing.

On Saturday we all went out to eat at Frost, a restaurant in Brooklyn. If you're ever in the Williamsburg area, check it out! Small place & my dish (the gnocchi) was delicious with its meat sauce. Highly recommended. The chicken dishes are also really good. Staff is very accomodating (especially since we came with the baby).

Robyn and I spotted Julia Stiles signing autographs after a night show of Oleanna, the new play over at the Golden Theatre. (Where Avenue Q used to be before it went back to Off-Broadway). My sister was hilarious, she goes "Yup, she has no boobs" after taking a quick look at her. (Typical Robyn). I have to say, J.Stiles looks exactly the same in person as she does on the big screen.

Last Saturday, AnnaMarie celebrated her birthday at 230 5th, a rooftop bar/indoor club. Her sister celebrated her birthday last spring and I celebrated Halloween there last year. It's a pretty popular place, even though the kicker is it looks like an ordinary office building from the outside! We had a gorgeous view...

I am dreaming of owning this camera.

I keep hearing rave reviews about it. I know God has more pressing matters to attend but do you think He could send over one of those if I ask enough? :-P

thursday woes

The worst thing to do is assign on a test on a Friday. At first glance it seems like a good idea because you get the entire week to study. Mondays are no better either -- spending all your free time on a weekend studying is no good.

But when your one History class is every Friday, you're stuck. I thought I had all week to review my notes but the damn week just flew by!! I've been in college since '03! You'd think I'd know better LOL.

So have I mentioned I have a wedding to attend on Halloween? Yup! Jonathan's cousin Alexis is marrying Gaetano on the 31st. I love weddings -- plus Alexis & her soon-to-be husband are great together. I'm happy to celebrate with them. Too bad Kim & Vinnie are having a house party that night!! I highly doubt I will make it, however, if Jonathan & I are lucky enough, we'll get to go out that night in costume and meet up with K&V and company.

I don't know what I'm going as. Actually that's a lie; I'm planning on Tinkerbell but i'm gonna need a backup if it doesn't work out. Maybe Olive Oyl. I can see Jonathan pulling off Popeye, voice and all. (Not that they share a voice but he's very good at imitating people.)

My dad turned 46 yesterday so we celebrated with a dinner and cake. My mom and I started cooking a German meal around 4:30. 4 hours later it was done! We didn't expect it to take so long. Oma helped and so did Alex, who Jonathan & i bumped into en route to the supermarket. For the cake we had Black Forest (not surprisingly -- we wanted to keep up with the German theme). Jonathan loved spending time with my family and the feeling was mutual. My dad also gave me, Chris and Jonathan great advice concerning our futures, jobs, life in general. Whenever my dad talks, you can't help but listen. He is someone who has lived his life and experienced/seen a lot so you know everything he says is true and can be trusted. I am proud and happy to call him my dad.

Back to Kim for a second, she saw Hamlet last night and based on her positive review of Jude's performance ("amazed at his range") I am itching to see it before it ends in December! Maybe I'll go around my birthday. Although I really want to see Rock of Ages. And by really I mean badly.

Late night hijinks

Gone are the days I stayed up to 3am without so much as a yawn. Am I getting old?! Maybe I need to take more naps. Or drink more coffee :-D

Last night there was a screening for 'Paranormal Activity.' It was like a documentary style movie but with a cast of just 2 main characters and one supporting character. This is no Blair Witch Project though. You know it's not real going into it, the acting (on the wonan's part) leaves little to be desired and the scares are far and few in between. But not gonna lie, I did get scared a few times! My favorite was when Tiffany screamed LOL. If you haven't heard about Paranormal Activity, I suggest watching the trailer. I doubt this movie is going to get a nationwide release. Although if it does, I'm curious to see how well it does.

But what made the night so interesting was the 6 hour wait time! I don't have enough fingers and toes to count all the people who asked me what I was on line for. I was waiting with not only Tiff but Anthony (a friend of Jonathan's, not the usual Ant Ive mentioned before), his girlfriend Bryn (what a sweetheart!) and their friend Jared (who was also so nice). I'm glad they joined us; it made the wait time go by so much faster. We were joking we would tell the people who asked us what we were on line for that we were waiting to see a porno. Another was, auditioning for American Idol. Would love to have seen the looks on their faces after that!

Last Sunday, the Great Irish Fair came to Coney Island and my parents, Michael and myself went. It was SO hot that day. I don't think i've ever experienced heat like that in mid-September. Needless to say, we all got burnt. I started peeling yesterday. At least i've got a bit of color hehe.

September also seems to be a big party month. It started off with Jonathan's big party at Sutton Place and this weekend alone there are 4 places I have invites to. Tonight is my friend Max's listening party that is going on in 2 boroughs, neither one that I'll be in tonight! Also it's Jaime and her twin brother's birthday gathering at a bar in the Upper East Side. Definitely going to stop by hers, not too sure about Max's. What makes it so tough to go out this weenend is that I am doing the morning shift so, since I gotta be out the door by 7, staying up all night partying doesn't sound so fun anymore.

Good thing I have to stay overnight in the city!

Btw...new tattoo in the works. The design is actually the same as my father's from 1985. My birth year! It's off a cross with two hearts on it. I think it's amazing my dad still has the original sketch the artist drew! Not only that but my mom designed it; it just makes it that more special. I was thinking around the time of my birthday would be an ideal time. We'll see.

Must be the changing of the seasons...

My little brother turned 18 yesterday! 18?! I remember the day he was born! Actually Michael's birthday is a very interesting story. And this being a blog and all, I might as well tell it!

*I should note I am telling the story from what I remember. I'm sure my mom could tell it so much better!

When my mom became pregnant with her last child (Michael) there was a lot of complications. Mom spent most of the summer of '91 in the hospital. The doctors told my parents that they would have to abort the baby or else my mom would die. My dad was devastated but abortion was not an option for either of them. So my dad did what anything Catholic would do in times like this: turn to God. He prayed the Rosary every day that both would survive. The reason why the pregnancy was so high risk was because the sac burst and obviously a baby cannot survive without that protective layer in the womb.

Michael was born on September 16, 1991. His due date was December 3rd. That's the day he came home! It truly was a miracle that Michael wasn't born severely handicapped or mentally retarded. That is why he is named after St. Michael -- he is a saint who, without a doubt, listened to my parents prayers and had a hand in God's miracle. He is special needs though. I don't know quite how to explain what exactly makes him special needs, besides him learning at a much slower pace than other 18 year olds. Michael is also deaf. He can speak because we are a speaking family but he is fluent in ASL and goes to a school where they sign, even though it's mixed with a regular highschool. My family does sign at random though, picking up some phrases was inevitable. Mikey doesn't like to sign at home though; he gets embarassed. I LOVE it though! I can never get him to teach me, except for the time it took him a half hour to get him to teach me 'dancing with the stars'. (Can you tell I like the show?)

Michael started a job today! The school places the students in various jobs once they're old enough. He really wanted to work at the store in his school but they reserve that for the more severely handicapped kids. Instead they have him working at a senior center for 1 hour every day. He'll be making about $150 a week. I am so happy for him! Not gonna lie, I was so nervous at first. And so was he!! But he liked it and so that's a good sign.

I don't think Michael will ever live on his own. My dad has told me in the past they accepted that a long time ago. I think it takes special kind of people to accept and even embrace that. God forbid anything happens to my parents. I am pretty much (being the oldest) next in line to take care of him. Wow! What a thought. I made a deal with God a long time ago. Don't take my parents before Michael. If they gotta go, we all go together LOL.

On a more serious note, as crazy as our lives have been because of michael, we wouldn't have it ANY other way. My life is better because of my him, I have so much more patience because of him and I've learned to appreciate the small things in life because of him.

He is also one of the funniest people you will ever meet! I've had some people tell me that they've burst out laughing at the things he's said. He can be very shy socially (it definitely comes with his disability) but he is a part of Facebook so my friends can see the things he says there.

I am curious to see what the future brings for us and what God's plan is for Michael. All I know is, this is one adventure I am ready for!

disclaimer

I noticed I tend to be repetitive about what I blog. I didn't realize that my last post started off with the iPhone purchase as well! Forgive me, my memory can be spotty as the posting is sporadic and I normally don't go back to check.

While I'm here, let me just tell you, conjugating German verbs is NOT fun. Sigh. Quiz in the morning. Lovely.

Technology. Gotta love it

So as you may or may not know, I switched to an iPhone after being a loyal sidekick user. But temptation got the best of me and I switched over to AT&T. iPhone applications are the best -- I just discovered the blogger app, which I am currently using.

Jonathan sent me a link today, about a deal Disney is having until November 24th. For 5 nights you spend a little over $500 for a package plan. We keep saying we wish we could go back. Boy, do I! That would be a sweet birthday present (mine is November 8). I think the best time slot would be spring break. This summer my entire family, Oma & Opa included, are cruising on the new Norwegian Epic ship. At least that's the plan thus far. I really can't stand cruises but this ship looks, well....epic!

Fashion Week has been hitting New York full force as of late and I've been living vicariously through a dear friend of mine who is interning at a modeling agency. If all goes well, I may attend a fashion show with her before it all ends on Thursday! Never thought I'd ever attend one! I hope this turns into a paying gig for my friend. She deserves a break (and a paycheck!)

The San Gennaro feast is back. It has to be one of my favorites. For starters, I love Little Italy. Row after row of Italian restaurants crammed into narrow streets, made even more narrow by all the booths at the feast, the smell of all that Italian food is irresistable. I went last night on a full stomach and boy, did I regret that. Good thing I'm going again on Friday...and Saturday! This time I will do it right. Not too sure what Saturday's dinner plans entail but Friday we (JD, Karina, Billy and myself) are going to Vincent's. They are known for their outta-this-world tomato sauce.

Now that I've got an end date to my time at my current school (last semester will be next fall) I look forward to going to class because it's one day closer to finishing LOL. I don't know if I want to go back to Queens College though. I was curious about going to St. John's University. My father actually attended the school for 6 months in the 80s and told me recently it was a big party school. Apparently there is a bar on campus! Not near it but inside of it. Not sure if it's still there today but them Catholic schools sure know how to party. I should know. My highschool (a Catholic one as well) LOVED drama/scandal. That's not a knock on Catholic schools -- I am forever grateful my parents sacrificed so much to keep me in one -- but the students seem to be the most rebellious when under strict rules! Anyway, as far as where I'll continue on for my B.A, I'll play it by ear. I'm sure I'll have plenty to think about, being stuck on that cruise ship this summer... :-P

October seems really promising. I am 99% sure I am getting another tattoo, my aunt & uncle are coming in from North Carolina because my beautiful cousin Sierra is being baptized here, my grandma has a birthday, Mika is performing in the city on the 16th, Fright Fest, Alexis' wedding and...Halloween! Both, by the way, fall on the same day. What a way to end that month!

Ok, time to hit the hay. These dark circles under my eyes aren't doing me any justice!!

smell the coffee...

I am so happy it's Saturday. Once in a blue moon,  a Saturday will come along that requires no work from me (in the form that produces a paycheck that is -- this doesn't include housework and other responsibilities!) and today is one of those days. I slept in 'til 9:30 and now I am waiting for the coffee to finish brewing. Ahhh. Have I mentioned I got the place to myself? :-D

Yesterday, I was thinking of relationships with siblings and how fragile they can be. Think about it. You're born into the same family so at a young age, you're forced to bond. Of course, a 2 or 3 year old doesn't look at it as forcing. But really what choice do we have? We don't know any better! Then when we get older and a little wiser, we really see what kind of people our siblings are. I love each one of my siblings very much. Each relationship (I have 3 of them) is very different. And as glad as I am I know them, I wonder, if we weren't related, would we be friends? 

What a thought! I like knowing I have these three different people in my life for eternity (I'm counting the afterlife too). How can you ever be lonely?

By the way, Johnny turned 7 months three days ago. Wow! How time does fly. And it doesn't stop there! Michael turns 18 in 11 days, my dad's birthday is on the 30th, Natali's is on the 8th, I turn 24 in 2 months, my grandma has a birthday in the beginning of October....*grabs ahold of time and stops it* ;-)

glucklich freitag!

There has been a lot of debate over the iPhone versus the BlackBerry but in the past I was always content with my sidekick. Well not really. The track wheel was always a pain in the arse. Now though, after the battery wouldn't last more than 2 hours without dying on me (no exaggeration either) it was time for an upgrade. I wasn't happy about T-Mobile's service either. Not the customer service part -- they've always been helpful to me. But the actual reception. AT&T gives me service even when I'm underground! That is extremely useful, as I seemingly underground constantly LOL.

So I got the iPhone :-) I worked with a very helpful guy over at the AT&T store at the Rockefeller Center Plaza. Ask for Edgar Diaz. He really seems to care about his customers! I got a pretty good deal too, I like to think. So this is love at first sight for me and this phone. The touch screen can be a bitch for texting but it's easy to get over that.

In other non-technology news, my neighbor gave birth two weeks ago! Deirdre is 3 years older than me and we lived three houses down from each other our whole lives. (Well, I moved 2 years ago but my parents still live there. And sometimes, I feel like I still do too!) It's nostalgic almost when someone achieves such a milestone as becoming a parent because you remember what they were like way back when. Deirdre also attended the same high school as me and was in the same year as my good friends, Anthony and Kenn. Small world right? Anyway, I've yet to see the little guy but most of my family has. They say he looks just like her. Ah, gotta love how excited babies get everyone. I also give Deirdre credit for keeping the gender a surprise (from herself, too) for 9 months! Turned out to be a boy -- Braden. I give her a lot of credit. I don't think I could wait! Actually I know I wouldn't....haha.

School is back in swing here. I've taken to riding the LIRR to class and slumming it home because I always had a problem arriving early to school for morning classes since I work nights. And the LIRR really saves my ass. But even with my disability card, I noticed yesterday it's taking a toll on my wallet LOL. So, I'm gonna slum it today by train and bus since my history class isn't until 1pm. I also have to give Ben in the disability office credit for really helping me this semester with accommodations. He got me permission to not do the oral exams in my German class. Meaning when she asks us a question in German and we have to answer, she will have to write it and then I'll answer. Not sure if my professor is going to actually follow through -- I have a feeling she'll just keep repeating until I understand what she's saying because she's determined like that. That is not a knock on her; I actually think it's a great thing. She really seems to care that we learn German and actually be good at it!

By the way, the title is supposed to mean "happy friday!" but I have a feeling I may have done something wrong in translating it LOL.

and then there were three.

I appreciate a good laugh as much as the next person so when I discovered Ryan Higa and his friends, I couldn't help but become an instant fan. I know how much hard work goes into creating comedy, partly from observing and partly from seeing it with my own eyes. Jonathan and his friends (and also brothers) Mike and Sal (who by the way, have to be some of the sweetest guys you will ever meet) created a sitcom back in 2002. They resumed filming just this summer and I have to tell you, I am delighted because it really is such a fun show to watch. The show revolves around the three characters played by Jonathan, Mike and Sal. The show reminds me of Seinfeld meets Odd Couple. Really, the show is a tribute to all of their favorite sitcoms but those are the two I think of when I see it. There is still originality in it, despite that. I know Jonathan hopes to make it in the media field (er, after all he did spend 5 years in college getting his Bachelors for it!) so I hope some day soon someone sees the talent that guy has. It would be even more amazing if all 3 of them one day did something big! You can say you heard it here first. :-)

What impresses me the most about those three, besides the creative input it took to make the show, is that I never feel like they're acting. Each of them can be so different from their characters. I remember when I first met Mike and Sal, I thought I was going to be meeting Lunk and Brad, the guys they portray. But far from it. I am just fascinated by stuff like that. My acting career consists of bloopers, haha, so I admire all those who can keep a straight face in one take.

As for Ryan Higa, he did a spoof on Twilight that had me in stitches. He's spoofed other things, which you can see on his YouTube channel. I don't recommend the Harry Potter one. Even Ryan and his team admit it has nothing to do with the movie. But, still, take a look! Ryan and his best friend Sean even did a movie that was released in California and Hawaii only. It was called Ryan and Sean's Not So Excellent Adventure.

Bottom line: laughter is some of the best medicine out there.

P.S, the words hi-lighted in green are links.

home is where the pen is.

I was always a big believer that if you do what you love, you'll be happy. It all boils down to the simple things in life. 

I must have gone through a million different options when it comes to a career. Vet tech, nurse, actress, model, psychology, postal worker...as my dear friend Anthony will tell you, I can be very indecisive. But one thing I was always 110% certain about is my love for writing. It always comes back to that. When I was younger, I would write little plays for my siblings and I to perform (I know I've mentioned that before). I'd write stories and make a book jacket for them on scraps of paper. I had my sister take a Creative Writing class just so I could do all her assignments for her! Writing never feels like work to me. I am like a child with crayons and a paper or a chef with a gigantic kitchen and all the ingredients they need when it comes to writing a story. But when it comes to jobs, I just don't know what to make of it.

Do you know anyone who is a writer? What kind of work do they do? I've thought of doing everything from travel writing (which would be a dream!) to a novelist to an editor to a newspaper writer. I am looking for stability though and I know writing doesn't really provide that. There has to be something, anything I can do! Anyone out there wanna give me a chance? LOL.

I am sure everything will fall into place in due time. My favorite saying is God helps those who help themselves. With hard work, lots of patience and plenty of coffee, I say my dreams can come true. Who's with me?!

evil is hot.

In the week and barely a half of summer vacation left, I have one trip to Splish Splash and a birthday party to attend. Otherwise it is just working and be a lazy butt. I wanted to brush up on some reading for school but uh yeah, I don't see that happening LOL.

Hershey was such a blast. I didn't get to do as much as I hoped to, like the trip to Harley Davidson or Chocolate World but just a few hours at Hershey Park and exploring the hotel, Hershey Lodge, was so much fun. I would love to go again for an extra day and really get to explore the place. We stayed from Sunday, the 9th to Tuesday the 11th. On Monday night, Jonathan, myself and his parents drove to Lancaster for dinner at Good 'N Plenty. If you've never been before, I suggest going first chance you get. It's a fun experience because you eat with other people and share a fixed meal. What are the odds that we'd get seated next to a family that was also from NYC. We were representing two boroughs: Queens (us) and Staten Island (them). We didn't stay too long. When we got back, J.D and I explored a little more and hit up the arcade. So, a very low key weekend. 

On the 11th, my brother Chris turned 21. He (and all of us) got a surprise in the form of a visit from Natali and her mom. Natali and I were BFF from the 3rd-7th grade and kept in touch from time to time. I hadn't seen her since '07 so it was very good to hear from her and even more so from her mom whom I haven't seen in probably 10 years! Amazing how time flies. She hasn't changed a bit!

On the 12th, Jonathan turned 26 and he had a little get together at the house. We didn't celebrate with just the two of us until the following Monday at Donovan's and then again yesterday, when we ate at Mars 2112 ( 51st and Broadway) and then saw the 8pm showing of The Toxic Avenger. That has to be one of THE funniest musicals I've seen in awhile! I loved the soundtrack too. A must have (downloading a song as I type). When Jonathan and I first started hanging out in early 2008, we bonded over the fact that we both had rooted for Diana DeGarmo (season 3 runner up of American Idol). Here is a link to her first night in the role of Sarah. Nick Cordero was out in the lead role of Melvin but when I saw who was understudying him, I was really surprised: Nicholas Rodriguez. I know Nick from his time at Tarzan. Well, not personally but just from the show. I wasn't a fan of him then (who was, after seeing Josh Strickland in the title role?!) but Nick was fantastic as the Toxic Avenger/Melvin. J.D & I were disappointed we didn't get to meet the cast after. Not for lack of trying though...

Btw, I am officially free of credit card debt! Wahoo! Okay so it's not like I had a tremendous amount but it was still a lot and now it's done & over with. Freedom has never tasted so sweet. Too bad the rent is due in two weeks, haha.

just eat it.

My parents bought a new T.V for their bedroom and gave Robyn & I their old one. Their old one, btw, is really nice in itself, so we are very happy and that's putting it lightly. It allows us a lot of freedom because we were sharing the one in the living room with our other roommates and to be honest it got annoying. I mean they were generous in letting us use it, don't get me wrong, I don't want to sound unappreciative. But the freedom to put on a movie whenever I want is nice :-) Right now I am watching Gran Torino. I keep hearing such good things about it, how it's really sad, etc so I had put it on the top of my Netflix list. 

Recently I had been praying for another job opportunity and even Robyn admitted to praying for me too, LOL. I'm sure you can guess where I'm going with this...yup. I got another gig for a brief period. However it comes to my aid when aid is needed. Coincidence? I think not. Sometimes I am truly amazed how good God is. I am the last person who deserves their prayers answered yet He did anyway. August is off to a good start!

Saw (500) Days of Summer the other day. Loved it -- definitely thought it lived up to its hype. I liked that it didn't have your usual happy ending but in a way, it WAS a happy ending. Speaking of the end, the last line is probably my favorite of the whole movie LOL. I recommend it if you're looking for a good movie to watch.

I am not much of a chocolate girl but these are enough to make me one. As my sister puts it, "orgasmic!"

got that pesky travel bug.

So far this summer hasn't disappointed. In June, I had the big Disney World trip. The entire month of July was pretty tame, save for the arrival of the MacBook! And now August is here and I can hardly believe it. 28 more days until school starts up again. *shudder* The summer was pretty much rained out but I'll still miss it. Fall is still my favorite season so I am very excited for that. Then there's the trip to Hershey next weekend to look forward to so no time yet to mourn the end of summer vacation.

While on the topic of vacation, my sister really put the Croatia 2010 trip into motion. We are looking at a week or two in June of next year. The flight out there is ridiculously priced but my Opa owns a house there so we'll save TONS since we won't have to find a hotel. My opa's niece really wants to meet us so I am glad we'll have a friend out there. She is about my sister's age.

I was just thinking lately about traveling and such since it has been a big topic lately. My sister and I were arguing just this morning because she says I need to make sacrifices if I want to travel a lot. Right now we are working students. So basically traveling is not something I should make a habit of doing so much. I say life is too short to NOT travel but she does have a point. After the whole argument was done with and we had made peace, I thought about how my mom always wished I would become a travel writer. I want to seriously consider that. Then I could get paid to travel and the argument will be a thing of the past, LOL. 

The Hershey Lodge has been getting mixed reviews on the website. What really caught my eye was the coffee shop in the resort. Is it sad that that's what appealed to me? Hehe. Can't wait!! Forgot to mention -- the trip is no longer just myself & Jonathan. Now his parents, his sister, his brother-in-law and his nephew are all coming! If this was FaceBook, I'd click the 'likes it' option.

"i'm an orphan!"

I was recently thinking about the fact that I rarely see my parents anymore. So when I learned they were going to Mohegan Sun next weekend, I jumped at the chance to go with them. It'll just be the two of them, Michael (the baby of the family) and me. It's going to be very tame but that's exactly what I need! My dad just wanted to be by the pool while my mom is gonna be the butterfly that goes from place to place. I definitely get a little of that from my mom. As Jonathan tells it, I always have to be some place. =P My dad & Michael are going to try to score WWE tickets at the Mohegan Sun Arena for the 3rd of August but I highly doubt there will be any left. If they do succeed though, I bet non existant money my mom's gonna want to do a little shopping spree. I am all for that =D

Orphan was such a sick movie. I saw it with Robyn and Tiffany on Friday and by the end of the movie we were all practically yelling at the screen. I kept thinking to myself, "kill whoever you want, just don't kill the little girl!" She was THAT adorable. (The little girl I mention would be the biological daughter of the couple). I highly suggest watching it if you want a good scare! The twist definitely surprised me but I don't know how I didn't think of it.

Lately I've been reading Columbine by Dave Cullen. He's worked/interviewed/followed the survivors closely since the event on April 20, 1999. Am I twisted for being fascinated with the story? I don't know...something about tragedies like that get me. I want to know what led the killers to do something like that, what the survivors were thinking while they were stuck inside that school...yeah, I'm a little looney. But regardless, the book is very well written. I highly recommend it. The story is not told in chronological order so if you don't mind jumping around a bit, time wise...

woof?

I never had a dog growing up, or a pet of any kind, save for two fish that died the next day. I think one lasted a week. That was kind of a miracle. My mom is allergic and my opa was never a fan of pets in the house. I remember a neighbor on my block let me walk his dog, Benji. It was a very exciting moment for a 9 year old.

When I was 19, I started walking for this company...that shall remain unnamed, just in case they find this blog, should they Google themselves. I worked for them for a year as a dog walker. Company drama aside, it was a great job. I got to walk around the city all day and meet all these great dogs AND get paid for it! After a year, I left to go back to school. But that started a great chain of events which led to private dog walking. I don't do much anymore but a year ago, I met a very cool person who needed me to walk her dog. I've been with them ever since! I'll be seeing a lot of Jorda (the dog pictured) this summer, which is great because I haven't seen her since Easter and miss her terribly! I believe I have mentioned her in a previous post. She is a boxer/pit bull mix and so sweet...until she sees a squirrel, or another dog. But she loves humans. She comes off as intimidating and aggressive but she's really not. Unless you mess with her, hehe.

Btw...I am heading to Hershey Park on August 8th! (Saturday) I will be there until Monday, the 10th. Hotel has been booked! J.D's parents said we could take one of the cars so you know what that means...road trip!!! We searched bus and train info and the times and prices were a bit iffy, times especially. One bus ride would have taken 1 day. ONE DAY! From New York City to Pennsylvania? You've gotta be kidding me. But I am very excited, to say the least.

inks.

This is the robin bird on my back -- 6/26 by Eric Edwards at True Blue.

But at first it was a bloody mess. Doesn't it look like a bird walked on my back?

My mom got the same thing on her ankle. It's funny how differently ours healed.

a man who was a living angel.

The library has always been one of my favorite places and I hadn't been for the longest time. A few days ago I went and boy am I glad, because I spotted The Book of Mychal by Michael Daly. I am just about done with it and let me tell you...it's one of the most beautiful stories I've ever read. I feel so sad I never had the opportunity to meet Father Mychal Judge. The worst part is, it was possible. He was a friar over at St. Francis of Assisi Church on W 31st street. That has to be one of my favorite churches in the world. You wouldn't expect there to be a beautiful church in the middle of Herald Square but it is. My dad introduced me to the church a few years ago but unfortunately Mychal passed away on 9/11 so any chance of meeting him will have to wait until I kick the bucket, LOL. You may or may not have heard of this priest but I am 100% sure you have seen this picture.

oh summer, where art thou?

Prior to the weekend arriving, it was shaping up to be a great one. Pool party on Friday, house party for the 4th of July on Saturday...but then something happened. It all started on the 26th of last month when my long awaited tattoo appointment arrived. (P.S it hurt like a bitch but the result was great!!) Because it's on my left shoulder, I kept wearing tank tops during the healing process. That normally wouldn't be a problem. I mean, it's summer right? Mother Nature did not get the memo and lately it's been kinda chilly at times so I think not dressing 'warm' enough this past week wore down on my immune system. Friday morning I felt a little under the weather but thought nothing of it. By the afternoon, I knew something wasn't right. After 2 or so hours, most likely more, in the hot tub I had to get out. Everything was achey and I felt feverish. By the time I got back in Jonathan's car to go home, I was a shakey, achey mess. I slept at my parents' (just in case something happened, you never know) that night and woke up to my dad giving me a fluffy pillow and some Aleve. I sound like such a baby LOL, but sometimes its nice to be babied.



So I stayed in for the 4th, save for dinner at a new diner in Forest Hills with J.D. I'm glad I went to the pool party yesterday, Kimmie's pool parties never disappoint! Also she & I had a delicious lunch over at The Perfect Pint. The Asian Calamari salad is amazing. Go there if you're ever in the 'hood!

how i met my favorite vacation spot.

The last time I updated was almost a month ago! Holy cow. I completely blame it on the lack of computer. My beloved 'top passed away last number and it just never seemed like the right time to buy. I was going to use my vacation check to purchase one this week but my old friend tuition called and the opportunity for a new one passed me by yet again.

The Disney World trip was in one word: magical. Because it really is the most magical place on Earth! Who first started saying that? Walt himself? Whoever it was...they hit the nail on the head. Love love love that place!! We stayed for 5 days and 4 nights at the Pop Century. Nothing but good things about that place. My only regret was we didn't stay longer to really explore the hotel. So in January we are going again. For a week. If everything works out okay, we'll book it by November. (I was gonna keep it on the DL as not to jinx it but when do I ever keep things on the DL!)

Tower of Terror was by far my favorite ride. The suspense, the scary theme, the free fall...I laughed the entire ride! I think I was so scared, I became hysterical with laughter. I had to buy the picture at the end of the ride because it came out so damn funny. There was a 4 year old girl in the back row who looks more calm than myself and Jonathan combined! Actually she looked...bored. Clearly she's been on it more times than I have! (A grand total of one at this point.)

Will update when I have more time. Right now I am using the public computer at the library. How...ghetto. =P

By the way, if you haven't been watching How I Met Your Mother I suggest starting now. Best show ever!!!!

for every generation, there is born a...

The summer flu caught me this week so I rediscovered my love for Buffy the Vampire Slayer. It's easy to see why it became a cult favorite. Hush is one of their best episodes. You might remember it from season 4, when those creepy Gentlemen steal the voices of all Sunnydale residents so that when they steal their hearts, they can't scream. Morbid, I know, but it makes for a great storyline. And although it earned the show their first Emmy nomination, they didn't win.

A few days ago, I went to City Island, which I'm not even sure I knew existed. It's a part of the Bronx and consists mainly of one main road. I went with J.D & his parents to a restaurant called Sammy's Fish Box, towards the end of the island. In fact, you can see the water from where we sat outdoors. Can I just say, their shrimp scampi is beyond delicious! I may have gained 400lbs while there but it's the best 400lbs ever =P J.D's dad put it best when he said it feels like we're on vacation while there. Speaking of vacation...11, yes 11 more days left until the Orlando trip!

Yesterday, Times Square hosted their first Tony Award viewing/party. It was great! At first the crowd was bare. But as it got closer to show time, the crowd really picked up. By 8pm, it was packed. It made watching more enjoyable because the crowd gets into it and it's just all around fun. I'm definitely going to do it again next year. The opening number was amazing -- Liza, Elton John and all these other Broadway stars on one stage made for an interesting number. Karen Olivo took home the trophy for most tear worthy acceptance speech for Best Supporting Actress in a Musical and I really enjoyed the Rock of Ages performance. That and Next to Normal. Too many shows that need to be seen!

LBD (little beach dress)

Last summer I had this lovely white beach dress. Said lovely white beach dress went to the laundromat one day under the hands of my sister. When she returned, I discovered lovely white beach dress was now a not-so-lovely orange beach dress. Those things happen though.

So yesterday I went and bought this:

Gap has some really great stuff for the summer and it helps that J.D has his employee discount, hehe.

Great news for NYC'ers: SoHo now has a Hollister store! 600 Broadway.

B is for Baptism.

On Sunday, John Jr. had his Christening in Brooklyn. It was very much an all day affair but no complaints here! He is such a sweet baby. At almost 4-months old, he is growing so nicely. And he is so damn cute! No really, I have never seen a bad photo of him. So photogenic. Okay, I'm going to stop gushing about him; I make it seem like he's my own haha.

Baby John invites you into this photo post...

In his car seat, ready to get baptized.

We had 3 hours to kill between the house and the reception so we went back to the house.

Later at the reception...

How can you resist that face?!

Haha, his expression here is classic. Like a deer caught in headlights.

Myself, Ashley (cousin) and Erica (mama)

Lauren & Ryan make an appearance! (Erica is Ryan's Godmother. Lauren is the BFF)

The cake. Too pretty to eat. (But I did anyway...of course)

The Godparents! Jonathan & Lisa (uncle & aunt)

This is Sammy, perhaps one of the cutest 3 year olds ever.


Future contestants on Dancing with the Stars?

The end. I wanted to post more photos but then I would never stop and the scrolling on this entry would be of ridiculous levels, LOL.