It has been a while since I last updated. It has been a wild ride this past month. I have been busy with work, took a trip to North Carolina, and had some recent adventures/news/"young adult" crises.
I finally got to take my trip to North Carolina. While I was there, I got to visit my old stomping grounds, including Catawba. I got to see some old friends (at least the ones who haven't graduated) and my professors/mentors. It was great to catch up and feel comfortable with some familiar faces and thankfully, no dining hall food (one thing I didn't miss about undergraduate). Funny to go back as someone more confident and bold, yet still quirky, restless (I was all over campus and classically sitting in a contorted position), and always up for a good conversation I also got the chance to visit the place of my first internship and. C.S - which crazy to think 55 posts later, is what started this blogging adventure! (Still going strong with the whole mosquito thing - so who knew?!). I also got to visit my old "home" church family and my "adopted" family - it was a very bittersweet but great experience. Also, while I was there, I spent the night with my best friend at her apartment, was able to catch up with a friend, J.Y, who is sharing the graduate school adventure with me, and met with a teacher from my middle school (who is long since retired but still does work with exceptional individuals) who gave me some pointers on working with special needs individuals for children's church. Although I made this trip while I was homesick but I have gotten comfortable here in Connecticut.
And - then there is after the trip. The latter half of this month was a blur because I came back with new emotions, tired (I saw way too many people in five days and of course, travel), and of course, managed another bout of sinusitis again (this winter has been *fantastic* for coughing/sinus issues) The last month or two, I have not been focusing on relaxing (until I am exhausted), putting unrealistic expectations on myself, and not eating properly - which has seemed to create a pattern of illness/asthma and feeling ran down. So, right now, my goal is trying to find the balance that works for me... even if it means downtime after work, going for a run (I find running very therapeutic - not like most people are willing to run bahaha), getting at least 7 hours of sleep (I love sleep), eating properly, engaging and connecting with those who are in my life, and the list goes on and on.....
Also - upcoming adventures - my temp position - no idea when the "true" end date is. Part of me is nervous on not knowing if I will be staying on (maybe a good chance - our team had 30+ people to at least 10 people on a good day on our team) or being let go. This job has taught me assertiveness, allowed me to use my interpersonal skills (guess I had a way with people), problem-solving, and just being there for a person who is concerned, and rightfully so. However, I struggle being expected to be at a desk 40 hours a week (and often more because I willingly jump on OT) and the monotonity of calls/issues (however, there are days where calls can be interesting with crazy account issues). Then we have tax season upon us. This is my first year doing them, I have to have them done in order to apply for FAFSA (talk about deja-vu). So far, I have some ducks in a row with five W2's, a 1099, a student loan form, and possibly a 1095 (or is that just for certain health insurance - who knows, the lingo haunts me).... I think I can handle taxes, but I shall see... On the bright side, I had a credit score - which also makes me happy so I can start looking at places to rent when I start graduate school...
In the meantime, I am still waiting to hear back from CCSU, I am working with Dr. Bray on what exactly I want to do for master thesis, looking for different jobs, and hoping to explore some new areas once the weather gets warmer (including my future grad school city - ironically where my dad grew up; near the coast, hiking trails, parks, etc)... and I can't forget breaking out the camera for some macrophotography of... flowers and spiders.... STAY TUNED :)
Friday, February 2, 2018
Thursday, January 4, 2018
New Year is Finally Here and.... Winter Storm Brody/Bomb Cyclone
It is wild to think that it is 2018 and time is passing before my eyes or so it seems- It is different this year because I am not coming back from winter break into a new semester...
The holidays were good, things were different as a working young adult versus being in school and have three/four weeks off between semesters but I was able to enjoy Christmas and New Years off - but those three day weekends went by WAY too fast!
AND WITH THE HOLIDAYS WE GOT COLD!! Now I know I was born and raised most of my life in North Carolina - and yes we do get colder weather and I do need to get used to New England weather - but the weather has been insanely cold on the east coast- literally making the news. I did learn that I can handle being single/teen digits and don't mind the snow - as long as it is plowed (the back roads I take to and from work aren't always 100% plowed). However, my asthma is very reactive to cold, dry weather - so although I can handle it my lungs struggle. (Granted maybe not the negative temperatures) - so much for a warmer winter (hahahahaha) but temps do look like they will warm up. Then today, winter storm Brody made an appearance - with not only snow (on top of the snow that hasn't melted due to the colder than normal temps) but we have wild wind making it hard to see and roads are awful. I made the choice to go into work today - although the CTcare office was closed, however, Faneuil wasn't - it was not too bad - attendance points were awarded (I have no attendance points bc I am not one to miss work even sick (although there is a lesson in that I did learn) but I will be able to miss time and not have any points deducted with -2), pizza was offered, we could dress down, and the CTcare groups got to leave. We had five at most, then 3, then only 2 of us stayed the whole day.
Anyways.. I do have some new year goals including:
1. continuing my focus on better health - entailing of cutting out excess sugar (this is hard - I don't really eat a lot of processed sugary foods unless it is portioned but not something that is healthy anyways - and I ate a lot of sugary foods the last month), also started a new probiotics (I am low key obsessed with good bacteria haha), more protein, keep working on personal fitness goals, and to manage my asthma and better my adherence to asthma medications.
2. Be stronger, bolder, and self-expressive .... I have struggled with this in the past with worrying about what others say, not being assertive in certain situations, etc. I am going to make it a goal of mind to do what makes me happy even if it would cause some people to frown upon things
3. Be able to go to graduate school and make something of my future education - I am blessed to have a chance like this!
~ Stayed tuned for what 2018 brings!
The holidays were good, things were different as a working young adult versus being in school and have three/four weeks off between semesters but I was able to enjoy Christmas and New Years off - but those three day weekends went by WAY too fast!
AND WITH THE HOLIDAYS WE GOT COLD!! Now I know I was born and raised most of my life in North Carolina - and yes we do get colder weather and I do need to get used to New England weather - but the weather has been insanely cold on the east coast- literally making the news. I did learn that I can handle being single/teen digits and don't mind the snow - as long as it is plowed (the back roads I take to and from work aren't always 100% plowed). However, my asthma is very reactive to cold, dry weather - so although I can handle it my lungs struggle. (Granted maybe not the negative temperatures) - so much for a warmer winter (hahahahaha) but temps do look like they will warm up. Then today, winter storm Brody made an appearance - with not only snow (on top of the snow that hasn't melted due to the colder than normal temps) but we have wild wind making it hard to see and roads are awful. I made the choice to go into work today - although the CTcare office was closed, however, Faneuil wasn't - it was not too bad - attendance points were awarded (I have no attendance points bc I am not one to miss work even sick (although there is a lesson in that I did learn) but I will be able to miss time and not have any points deducted with -2), pizza was offered, we could dress down, and the CTcare groups got to leave. We had five at most, then 3, then only 2 of us stayed the whole day.
Anyways.. I do have some new year goals including:
1. continuing my focus on better health - entailing of cutting out excess sugar (this is hard - I don't really eat a lot of processed sugary foods unless it is portioned but not something that is healthy anyways - and I ate a lot of sugary foods the last month), also started a new probiotics (I am low key obsessed with good bacteria haha), more protein, keep working on personal fitness goals, and to manage my asthma and better my adherence to asthma medications.
2. Be stronger, bolder, and self-expressive .... I have struggled with this in the past with worrying about what others say, not being assertive in certain situations, etc. I am going to make it a goal of mind to do what makes me happy even if it would cause some people to frown upon things
3. Be able to go to graduate school and make something of my future education - I am blessed to have a chance like this!
~ Stayed tuned for what 2018 brings!
Saturday, December 30, 2017
Reflections List 2017
I thought I would end 2017 with a blog with all the exciting highlights of the year! This year has been stressful, fun, and chaotic at times but it taught me so much!
1. I was able to go on new adventures this year! I was able to go to several hiking trails in NC, CT, and NY, Alabama, the Outer Banks, Vermont, and different parts of CT (Kent, New Milford, Danbury - perks of working at a summer camp)
2. I discovered I do have a passion for research, especially for mosquitoes and the illnesses they carry, biodiversity, etc. I learned I enjoyed presenting research and teaching others about mosquitoes and will hopefully get to do that in the upcoming year for my master's degree. This was also reiterated when I was asked to come on permanently as a freelancer for Pollution Detectives and got to do data analysis, research, and editing.
3. I graduated from college in May!!!! 4.5 years of hard work, supportive professors and friends, and different experiences. Definitely grateful for the opportunity to attend Catawba :)
4. Moved to CT!
5. Was able to visit my graduate school of choice and find a potential graduate advisor interested in me :) - then was asked about working on a grant - stay tuned in 2018 for news on acceptance
6. I learned to make decisions for myself! I spent so long trying to pursue what others wanted for me I lost sight on choosing what makes me truly happy. Spent so many times where I was so worn down from trying to do well, do things to appease other people, and manage my time. 2017 - was the year I decided to make changes; which included moving to a new state, finding a school, and taking numerous chances.
7. Lastly, changes in my lifestyle, health, and fitness. This past year I was told I had moderate asthma - and I am learning to manage it and will continue to learn more about it as time goes on. I learned some yoga (thank you A/Dr. A.H for inviting me to yoga while still as a student). I learned to be more mindful of my body and emotions- which sometimes help reduce stress... and I have also made some feats with my fitness! I did learn yoga and had improved flexibility (not in a while but did see changes), am able to walk long distances, running (THIS IS HUGE!!! ESP BECAUSE OF ASTHMA) - I was able to set PR for myself - starting at 15, then 20 - 21 min, eventually 25 - 30 minutes, to the last time being able to run for 33 minutes without stopping - I have been running on and off since August and recently had some set backs with the weather/bronchitis & asthma/holidays but will be back at it in 2018! I also learned more about weight training this past year.
1. I was able to go on new adventures this year! I was able to go to several hiking trails in NC, CT, and NY, Alabama, the Outer Banks, Vermont, and different parts of CT (Kent, New Milford, Danbury - perks of working at a summer camp)
2. I discovered I do have a passion for research, especially for mosquitoes and the illnesses they carry, biodiversity, etc. I learned I enjoyed presenting research and teaching others about mosquitoes and will hopefully get to do that in the upcoming year for my master's degree. This was also reiterated when I was asked to come on permanently as a freelancer for Pollution Detectives and got to do data analysis, research, and editing.
3. I graduated from college in May!!!! 4.5 years of hard work, supportive professors and friends, and different experiences. Definitely grateful for the opportunity to attend Catawba :)
4. Moved to CT!
5. Was able to visit my graduate school of choice and find a potential graduate advisor interested in me :) - then was asked about working on a grant - stay tuned in 2018 for news on acceptance
6. I learned to make decisions for myself! I spent so long trying to pursue what others wanted for me I lost sight on choosing what makes me truly happy. Spent so many times where I was so worn down from trying to do well, do things to appease other people, and manage my time. 2017 - was the year I decided to make changes; which included moving to a new state, finding a school, and taking numerous chances.
7. Lastly, changes in my lifestyle, health, and fitness. This past year I was told I had moderate asthma - and I am learning to manage it and will continue to learn more about it as time goes on. I learned some yoga (thank you A/Dr. A.H for inviting me to yoga while still as a student). I learned to be more mindful of my body and emotions- which sometimes help reduce stress... and I have also made some feats with my fitness! I did learn yoga and had improved flexibility (not in a while but did see changes), am able to walk long distances, running (THIS IS HUGE!!! ESP BECAUSE OF ASTHMA) - I was able to set PR for myself - starting at 15, then 20 - 21 min, eventually 25 - 30 minutes, to the last time being able to run for 33 minutes without stopping - I have been running on and off since August and recently had some set backs with the weather/bronchitis & asthma/holidays but will be back at it in 2018! I also learned more about weight training this past year.
Sunday, December 10, 2017
2017 Reflections
2017
This has been quite the year - so many things have happened and I have grown a lot as a person in so many ways. Some things have been great, others not so much but I have had support along the way.
Last year at this time, I was finishing the most challenging semester of my life - excited to have barely gotten a B in one of the most difficult undergraduate courses (neuroscience) and still had another semester tacked on in order to get all my credits to graduate. I did learn in that semester that sometimes things that are most rewarding won't come without a fight - very applicable to life outside of academia and definitely was a huge lesson for me.
A bit of a recap of early 2017: In the beginning of the year I started a pro-bono, for experience internship learning about nonprofits and environmental health for Pollution Detectives (I have had quite the experience with Dr. Koster). I was also learned early in the year, I have moderate asthma and I have to take care of myself, take daily meds to prevent symptoms, and learn about asthma itself. However, having it properly treated has made my life easier... I got the chance to study biodiversity of mosquitoes (spun of my summer internship) and I learned I did actually enjoy seeing environmental science, biology, and public health come together. Also, I went to Alabama to present in late March/early April.
Graduation: so the spring semester went smoothly minus my persistent worry over painting class (which still is ironic since I draw well but painting eluded my capabilities) and biochemistry was rough... I also made the decision to move to CT in the works as of late last December/early January and that was a transition and a half... But I am still glad I made the move. Then after graduation... there was a trip to the Outer Banks (my first time yet lived in NC since I was 3) and the opportunity to work at a camp in Kent, CT.
Camp - as time passes on - I realize how much Camp Kenmont/Kenwood had on me - directly and indirectly. While I was there - I realized I lacked confidence and the ability to speak up despite having a good work ethic and a passion for kids. If I do go back to work at Kenmont/Kenwood I will definitely come back with more confidence. However, I did learn about different people and cultures, interacted with many people from outside the States, and got to be outside a LOT- which is my favorite thing. I lived with strangers for two months who grew to be like family and I learned how to figure out things without always needing to ask someone for advice (I did a LOT of laundry by hand because of the camps broken dryer :O)
After camp ended, life became a lull and I had to go and search fervently for jobs. Thankfully, I was able to work at Subway and was offered a remote freelance position (although I do data analysis not necessarily writing/editing as much - but still paid nonetheless) while I attempted to find something full time. That changed in October when I went for an interview at Faneuil, which is a place that holds Access Health CT and Connecticare health insurance. I started with CTcare on November 3rd, with several weeks of training and have worked in the actual call center for 2 weeks now. It is definitely a different job than I expected - and also my 7th one of the year. But I do have steady work, I am on the books for Subway still, and do get to do work for Pollution Detectives still.
In addition to going to a new church, I have also recently gotten the opportunity a couple of times to be a one to one for a nonverbal boy at church... He is on the spectrum and definitely has a hard time communicating so I thought it was cool when I was able to make a connection with him and teach my friend E about ASD and sensory processing. I might also be able to help with figuring out a way to make sure childrens church can help include those with special needs and how to help them feel at home at church - which is exciting to re-explore the topic and help teach others about neurodiversity - and thankfully there is a special needs teacher who is in charge of Sunday School - which is pretty exciting to collaborate or even get ideas to make sure H is comfortable while able to still be a kid.
Lastly - driving. This is a topic that is very personal and brings out my vulnerability in all the ways I would rather avoid. For those who don't know, I have had driving lessons in the past with an instructor who made me feel anxious and at the time - I had astigmatisms that worsened that affected my eye sight, leading to eyestrain. I did have a friend, J, who was the one who encouraged me to drive and taught me basics a couple of years back. She was (at the time one of the few) who encouraged me to drive). HOWEVER... I heard a lot of things when the driving instructor didn't work out and pretty much said I should never drive - and it was brought up how it was because I have ADHD (and to clarify - I am predominantly hyperactive - I actually pay attention well and have decent executive functions - or fine motor skills (this one gets me because I am able to draw well and have good dexterity - except for I use my left hand better with certain tasks).... With that being said, my parents brought me driving lessons and education course for graduation. I had confidence when I was driving with my stepmom even though I still needed to learn mechanics behind things and had weaknesses... However, in early October I got into an accident where I over turned the wheel when turning right and went through the fence and hit a standstill car. Everything was okay - me and my stepmom were pretty shaken. This unfortunately set me back ALOT in my confidence after building my confidence up from the previously being told I should never drive. However, I have a very patient and caring driving instructor, R.C. who during the second lesson figured out it was anxiety driven (both performance and hanging onto what people have said). I still have a LOT of work to do to get back the confidence I HAD and to go forward with driving but I have supportive parents, friends, and instructor - oh and a LOT of determination - even if it means low key sweating so much from nerves! So that saga will continue in 2018... which all goes back to PATIENCE :O!
This has been quite the year - so many things have happened and I have grown a lot as a person in so many ways. Some things have been great, others not so much but I have had support along the way.
Last year at this time, I was finishing the most challenging semester of my life - excited to have barely gotten a B in one of the most difficult undergraduate courses (neuroscience) and still had another semester tacked on in order to get all my credits to graduate. I did learn in that semester that sometimes things that are most rewarding won't come without a fight - very applicable to life outside of academia and definitely was a huge lesson for me.
A bit of a recap of early 2017: In the beginning of the year I started a pro-bono, for experience internship learning about nonprofits and environmental health for Pollution Detectives (I have had quite the experience with Dr. Koster). I was also learned early in the year, I have moderate asthma and I have to take care of myself, take daily meds to prevent symptoms, and learn about asthma itself. However, having it properly treated has made my life easier... I got the chance to study biodiversity of mosquitoes (spun of my summer internship) and I learned I did actually enjoy seeing environmental science, biology, and public health come together. Also, I went to Alabama to present in late March/early April.
Graduation: so the spring semester went smoothly minus my persistent worry over painting class (which still is ironic since I draw well but painting eluded my capabilities) and biochemistry was rough... I also made the decision to move to CT in the works as of late last December/early January and that was a transition and a half... But I am still glad I made the move. Then after graduation... there was a trip to the Outer Banks (my first time yet lived in NC since I was 3) and the opportunity to work at a camp in Kent, CT.
Camp - as time passes on - I realize how much Camp Kenmont/Kenwood had on me - directly and indirectly. While I was there - I realized I lacked confidence and the ability to speak up despite having a good work ethic and a passion for kids. If I do go back to work at Kenmont/Kenwood I will definitely come back with more confidence. However, I did learn about different people and cultures, interacted with many people from outside the States, and got to be outside a LOT- which is my favorite thing. I lived with strangers for two months who grew to be like family and I learned how to figure out things without always needing to ask someone for advice (I did a LOT of laundry by hand because of the camps broken dryer :O)
After camp ended, life became a lull and I had to go and search fervently for jobs. Thankfully, I was able to work at Subway and was offered a remote freelance position (although I do data analysis not necessarily writing/editing as much - but still paid nonetheless) while I attempted to find something full time. That changed in October when I went for an interview at Faneuil, which is a place that holds Access Health CT and Connecticare health insurance. I started with CTcare on November 3rd, with several weeks of training and have worked in the actual call center for 2 weeks now. It is definitely a different job than I expected - and also my 7th one of the year. But I do have steady work, I am on the books for Subway still, and do get to do work for Pollution Detectives still.
In addition to going to a new church, I have also recently gotten the opportunity a couple of times to be a one to one for a nonverbal boy at church... He is on the spectrum and definitely has a hard time communicating so I thought it was cool when I was able to make a connection with him and teach my friend E about ASD and sensory processing. I might also be able to help with figuring out a way to make sure childrens church can help include those with special needs and how to help them feel at home at church - which is exciting to re-explore the topic and help teach others about neurodiversity - and thankfully there is a special needs teacher who is in charge of Sunday School - which is pretty exciting to collaborate or even get ideas to make sure H is comfortable while able to still be a kid.
Lastly - driving. This is a topic that is very personal and brings out my vulnerability in all the ways I would rather avoid. For those who don't know, I have had driving lessons in the past with an instructor who made me feel anxious and at the time - I had astigmatisms that worsened that affected my eye sight, leading to eyestrain. I did have a friend, J, who was the one who encouraged me to drive and taught me basics a couple of years back. She was (at the time one of the few) who encouraged me to drive). HOWEVER... I heard a lot of things when the driving instructor didn't work out and pretty much said I should never drive - and it was brought up how it was because I have ADHD (and to clarify - I am predominantly hyperactive - I actually pay attention well and have decent executive functions - or fine motor skills (this one gets me because I am able to draw well and have good dexterity - except for I use my left hand better with certain tasks).... With that being said, my parents brought me driving lessons and education course for graduation. I had confidence when I was driving with my stepmom even though I still needed to learn mechanics behind things and had weaknesses... However, in early October I got into an accident where I over turned the wheel when turning right and went through the fence and hit a standstill car. Everything was okay - me and my stepmom were pretty shaken. This unfortunately set me back ALOT in my confidence after building my confidence up from the previously being told I should never drive. However, I have a very patient and caring driving instructor, R.C. who during the second lesson figured out it was anxiety driven (both performance and hanging onto what people have said). I still have a LOT of work to do to get back the confidence I HAD and to go forward with driving but I have supportive parents, friends, and instructor - oh and a LOT of determination - even if it means low key sweating so much from nerves! So that saga will continue in 2018... which all goes back to PATIENCE :O!
Sunday, October 29, 2017
Home is where the Heart is
It is weird to think I am approaching sixth months on post graduation and living in Connecticut. I have had some moments of homesickness, but I think I am finally making my way in this town...
First off, I am blessed to be able to live with my parents for the time being in order to save up money for graduate school and for future expenses. It is different for me since I never grew up with my biological dad and I am older and living at home but it was a move has been beneficial in my life. My parents are always looking out for me, making sure I eat (asking what I ate, if I want something to eat, so on), my stepmom will get things for me when she is out (including cookie butter - my favorite thing EVER; winterboots, etc.), supporting my decisions, and so on. The other day, my dad brought my coffee to drivers ed during break time because I forgot it (and almost scared me half to death when I saw him in peripheral). Also - the next day, I forgot I left my debit card in pants pocket and didn't realize it until I went to buy sparkling waters and a couple of other things at Aldis before work. My dad went through my pants pockets and brought it to me at work. He also made sure I had an inhaler on me because I left it in my pants too (I had one on me, but I do have a tendency to misplace them - so I have three loose rescue inhalers).
Next - this one was a surprise to me and interesting how it all played out. I put my two weeks in at Subway last week. I didn't think I made any impressions during my time there but I guess I did. The managers, J, at one of the stores I commonly cover shifts for has been interested in having me at her store. Interestingly enough, she will be transfering to the my "home" store next month. Upon finding out that I was leaving she was really surprised and encouraged me to stay on (fill in as needed or if my schedule allows it). I kind of brushed it off and said that it wouldn't be possible - THEN my home store manager, M tried calling and texting me (after a managers meeting from what I found out) and asked if I wanted to stay on rather than quitting... I was surprised but knew that J and my training manager, Sp, wanted me to stay upon hearing I was leaving. I will be staying - I will trying to work on Saturday during November and see how it goes. Like M said, it would be good for me to stay on in case the other job didn't work out or something came up.
Then I have found a home church only a half a mile away from my house. This was the first church I visited upon moving (and I visited one winter break prior to a merger) and was immediately included. I have to thank R for making me welcome and for including me (granted I give her grief now) The first visit to church I was invited to a ladies meeting at Panera after church - I was super nervous but met several people that were close in age and were super friendly, and since then have became friends with them. They have also made me feel welcome in the community. Since that meeting, i have been to several more of the Panera Bread meetings, potluck meals after church, a choir interest meeting, worship nights, and to help in children's church.
Speaking of children's church - it feels so good to be working with kiddos in the ministry again! I was hesitant to jump back into ministry again (I did Sunday School, bus ministry, and youth choir prior) but I am glad I did. That is a gift that God has given me and I have seen it, especially when during my time at camp and how challenging days were but my love for those kids made it worth. At this church, I am one of the adult (seems so weird to me) helpers and get to work with teenagers starting out in the children's ministry. It is pretty cool to give them pointers and tips from my experience with teaching Sunday School, helping with VBS, and working in bus ministry. The kids have grown on me too... This was seen in a text that I got from R that her daughter said that children's church was fun out of nowhere (like that made my entire day, so much I kept the screen shot) and when one of the kiddos asks me if I am teaching/helping and wants to sit on my lap (or melt haha).
Things are slowly coming into place for me here. I know my way pretty well around Bristol (and I am still willing to walk places) and I am learning places around Bristol (I know Southington, Waterbury, and Plainville okay - Wolcott and Terryville are very pretty). I also have some local favorite places I love to go to - like Memorial Boulevard Park (I enjoy when i can go through the park and sit at the benches, see the trees, etc), Supernatural Deli (I am not a foodie but I love the fact that their food is fresh), the library, and Rockwell Park.
I am also going to the gym regularly at Planet Fitness (well 2 to 3 times a week) - at least the front desk people are pretty familiar with me. I have also achieved some fitness goals of mine (i.e. running 20 minutes straight without stopping, learning resistances machines, and incorporating yoga into my routines) - and I am toning up in my arms - which I never expected.
Stay tuned for more adventures with the new job, finding out about graduate school, and of course, the holidays (and who doesn't love Christmas music)
First off, I am blessed to be able to live with my parents for the time being in order to save up money for graduate school and for future expenses. It is different for me since I never grew up with my biological dad and I am older and living at home but it was a move has been beneficial in my life. My parents are always looking out for me, making sure I eat (asking what I ate, if I want something to eat, so on), my stepmom will get things for me when she is out (including cookie butter - my favorite thing EVER; winterboots, etc.), supporting my decisions, and so on. The other day, my dad brought my coffee to drivers ed during break time because I forgot it (and almost scared me half to death when I saw him in peripheral). Also - the next day, I forgot I left my debit card in pants pocket and didn't realize it until I went to buy sparkling waters and a couple of other things at Aldis before work. My dad went through my pants pockets and brought it to me at work. He also made sure I had an inhaler on me because I left it in my pants too (I had one on me, but I do have a tendency to misplace them - so I have three loose rescue inhalers).
Next - this one was a surprise to me and interesting how it all played out. I put my two weeks in at Subway last week. I didn't think I made any impressions during my time there but I guess I did. The managers, J, at one of the stores I commonly cover shifts for has been interested in having me at her store. Interestingly enough, she will be transfering to the my "home" store next month. Upon finding out that I was leaving she was really surprised and encouraged me to stay on (fill in as needed or if my schedule allows it). I kind of brushed it off and said that it wouldn't be possible - THEN my home store manager, M tried calling and texting me (after a managers meeting from what I found out) and asked if I wanted to stay on rather than quitting... I was surprised but knew that J and my training manager, Sp, wanted me to stay upon hearing I was leaving. I will be staying - I will trying to work on Saturday during November and see how it goes. Like M said, it would be good for me to stay on in case the other job didn't work out or something came up.
Then I have found a home church only a half a mile away from my house. This was the first church I visited upon moving (and I visited one winter break prior to a merger) and was immediately included. I have to thank R for making me welcome and for including me (granted I give her grief now) The first visit to church I was invited to a ladies meeting at Panera after church - I was super nervous but met several people that were close in age and were super friendly, and since then have became friends with them. They have also made me feel welcome in the community. Since that meeting, i have been to several more of the Panera Bread meetings, potluck meals after church, a choir interest meeting, worship nights, and to help in children's church.
Speaking of children's church - it feels so good to be working with kiddos in the ministry again! I was hesitant to jump back into ministry again (I did Sunday School, bus ministry, and youth choir prior) but I am glad I did. That is a gift that God has given me and I have seen it, especially when during my time at camp and how challenging days were but my love for those kids made it worth. At this church, I am one of the adult (seems so weird to me) helpers and get to work with teenagers starting out in the children's ministry. It is pretty cool to give them pointers and tips from my experience with teaching Sunday School, helping with VBS, and working in bus ministry. The kids have grown on me too... This was seen in a text that I got from R that her daughter said that children's church was fun out of nowhere (like that made my entire day, so much I kept the screen shot) and when one of the kiddos asks me if I am teaching/helping and wants to sit on my lap (or melt haha).
Things are slowly coming into place for me here. I know my way pretty well around Bristol (and I am still willing to walk places) and I am learning places around Bristol (I know Southington, Waterbury, and Plainville okay - Wolcott and Terryville are very pretty). I also have some local favorite places I love to go to - like Memorial Boulevard Park (I enjoy when i can go through the park and sit at the benches, see the trees, etc), Supernatural Deli (I am not a foodie but I love the fact that their food is fresh), the library, and Rockwell Park.
I am also going to the gym regularly at Planet Fitness (well 2 to 3 times a week) - at least the front desk people are pretty familiar with me. I have also achieved some fitness goals of mine (i.e. running 20 minutes straight without stopping, learning resistances machines, and incorporating yoga into my routines) - and I am toning up in my arms - which I never expected.
Stay tuned for more adventures with the new job, finding out about graduate school, and of course, the holidays (and who doesn't love Christmas music)
Monday, October 16, 2017
Misadventures of Day to Day life.... where is the instruction manual when you need it?
It has been five months since graduating from Catawba and two months since I have been back and adjusting to Bristol from Kenmont/Kenwood camps... Life after graduation and in general isn't always the most straight forward - and boy have I really learn that... And sometimes, life feels like a sitcom filled with plenty of plot twists.
First off, I moved in with my [biological] dad and stepmom after graduation - their way of doing things and house is much different than growing up with my [biological] mom and then living on my own at college and with my "adopted" parents during college. This has been quite a transition and I have been open about how different it is for me... Add to it the fact that I now reside in a new state - away from family and friends and my comforts (church, woods, stores, friends close by)... I find myself homesick sometimes for little things, like Olive Garden, Mexican Restaurants, the Preserve at Catawba, advice from my favorite people, etc.
However, aside from the transition and homesickness, living in CT has taught me a couple of things. I recently got a job at a call center for a health insurance company nearby my house. I start this in November and it will help me save up [a lot more] money in order to attend graduate school and potentially live on campus [instead of renting an apartment - at least for time being]. I took a job where getting more than 10-15 hours is challenging especially with lack of a vehicle and lack of access to public transportation to the other store [where I could pick up more hours] In retrospect, I jumped to this job because I needed money, rather than waiting on the right opportunity to come my way... I do put my two weeks notice in this week, which I have mixed feelings about since I have learned a lot and have grown to enjoy being around the people I work with. I also have my work for Dr. Koster - which is still freelancing but is limited - work definitely waxes and wanes (guess that is what happens when you are a freelancer)...
Also, another huge thing I learned is take a chance and go for something even if it seems unreal.. I started over - scary enough as it is, and I am also trying to find a masters program I want in order to pursue my passion [for research]. I made the decision to reach out to Dr. A.B at CCSU (per suggestion of Dr. H) and I am glad I did... [She] seems interested in working with, took 2 and half hours to talk to me, and I definitely felt the vibes that I felt at Catawba. I went to open house and definitely felt prepared after having that connection and having talked about what to expect. I was able to get my application in for free with a fee waiver and still have to work on a personal statement and letters... I am excited for the idea of potentially being able to attend graduate school... Even if it means long hours in class, lab, and working a job - It will be worth it when I have the degree in the end!
Will update more in the near future - stay tuned!
First off, I moved in with my [biological] dad and stepmom after graduation - their way of doing things and house is much different than growing up with my [biological] mom and then living on my own at college and with my "adopted" parents during college. This has been quite a transition and I have been open about how different it is for me... Add to it the fact that I now reside in a new state - away from family and friends and my comforts (church, woods, stores, friends close by)... I find myself homesick sometimes for little things, like Olive Garden, Mexican Restaurants, the Preserve at Catawba, advice from my favorite people, etc.
However, aside from the transition and homesickness, living in CT has taught me a couple of things. I recently got a job at a call center for a health insurance company nearby my house. I start this in November and it will help me save up [a lot more] money in order to attend graduate school and potentially live on campus [instead of renting an apartment - at least for time being]. I took a job where getting more than 10-15 hours is challenging especially with lack of a vehicle and lack of access to public transportation to the other store [where I could pick up more hours] In retrospect, I jumped to this job because I needed money, rather than waiting on the right opportunity to come my way... I do put my two weeks notice in this week, which I have mixed feelings about since I have learned a lot and have grown to enjoy being around the people I work with. I also have my work for Dr. Koster - which is still freelancing but is limited - work definitely waxes and wanes (guess that is what happens when you are a freelancer)...
Also, another huge thing I learned is take a chance and go for something even if it seems unreal.. I started over - scary enough as it is, and I am also trying to find a masters program I want in order to pursue my passion [for research]. I made the decision to reach out to Dr. A.B at CCSU (per suggestion of Dr. H) and I am glad I did... [She] seems interested in working with, took 2 and half hours to talk to me, and I definitely felt the vibes that I felt at Catawba. I went to open house and definitely felt prepared after having that connection and having talked about what to expect. I was able to get my application in for free with a fee waiver and still have to work on a personal statement and letters... I am excited for the idea of potentially being able to attend graduate school... Even if it means long hours in class, lab, and working a job - It will be worth it when I have the degree in the end!
Will update more in the near future - stay tuned!
Thursday, October 5, 2017
October is here... and updates
So... one thing I didn't expect after graduating undergrad was for things to be this complicated. With this, one of the main things for me is finding a job that makes me happy and will help me become a better person. I have had eight different jobs since 2014: I have worked at Jersey Mikes, as a psychology work study, a Public Relations work study, a tutor, a SI leader, an intern for the environmental health department, a camp counselor, freelancer for nonprofit, and Subway. (Out of all of these, the jobs I have enjoyed were being an SI leader, camp counselor, working at the env. health department (my favorite by far), and freelancing) My experiences all are over the board - I have the most experience in communications, children, and mosquitoes - but I have very little experience in customer service, retail, office skills, etc. Which is frustrating - and add into the mix not having my drivers license can make things very tricky... Along with finding a job that allows for me to save an adequate amount of money to pursue my goals and subsist on.
Second thing - graduate school. Last week, I was able to visit my first choice graduate school (CCSU) and meet up with a potential mentor. She was very amazing - I felt like I was back at Catawba. She spent 2 and half hours talking with me - which was surprising. All of this was very exciting, including hearing about the classes I would get to take, working on a project, and possibly working with the CT agricultural station... There is a catch-22 - I need to find a topic to pursue to begin rolling the balls with grant writing, I have to have some money to put towards an application, tuition, jobs or if I can get stipends, and whether I will be accepted and do well. I also need to look at other programs, in which I have to take the GRE - which quite honestly I don't want to do but it will have to do if I choose Southern or UConn.
All of this is pretty overwhelming at times - not going to lie. However, I am determined to push through the job situation (including back to job search AGAIN) and if graduate school is meant to be, it will happen. I have full support system behind me and have someone else going through the same hurdles as I am with the grad school applications and figuring out what to do... so I am not alone in this.
Also - aside from the chaos that has been all consuming from grad school, life, and job searching... CT has been great! I have gotten the chance to visit some of the parks, various parts of CT (including Kent, New Milford, New Britain, Bristol, and Hartford) and have even done some of the local events that is common in Bristol - including the Mum Festival (not the parade though) and an event at Rockwell Park (that I just drew a blank on). Still working on finding a church - but I have two in mind that I really like... hopefully once I start driving I can visit more in the local area.
Second thing - graduate school. Last week, I was able to visit my first choice graduate school (CCSU) and meet up with a potential mentor. She was very amazing - I felt like I was back at Catawba. She spent 2 and half hours talking with me - which was surprising. All of this was very exciting, including hearing about the classes I would get to take, working on a project, and possibly working with the CT agricultural station... There is a catch-22 - I need to find a topic to pursue to begin rolling the balls with grant writing, I have to have some money to put towards an application, tuition, jobs or if I can get stipends, and whether I will be accepted and do well. I also need to look at other programs, in which I have to take the GRE - which quite honestly I don't want to do but it will have to do if I choose Southern or UConn.
All of this is pretty overwhelming at times - not going to lie. However, I am determined to push through the job situation (including back to job search AGAIN) and if graduate school is meant to be, it will happen. I have full support system behind me and have someone else going through the same hurdles as I am with the grad school applications and figuring out what to do... so I am not alone in this.
Also - aside from the chaos that has been all consuming from grad school, life, and job searching... CT has been great! I have gotten the chance to visit some of the parks, various parts of CT (including Kent, New Milford, New Britain, Bristol, and Hartford) and have even done some of the local events that is common in Bristol - including the Mum Festival (not the parade though) and an event at Rockwell Park (that I just drew a blank on). Still working on finding a church - but I have two in mind that I really like... hopefully once I start driving I can visit more in the local area.
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