Hey everybody! I realize it's been a month or so since I've wrote, so I just thought I would check in with all of you with an entry that's a little sentimental to me. For some of you that went to high school with me, or just knew me back then and now, this is not a new story, I just felt like writing about it due to the recent new beginnings and or chapters I've been given to add to it. I could never get tired of telling this story anyways, but I'll do my best to give you the shortened version, so I don't go on forever like I tend to do. I don't even know where to begin with telling it, but I'll give it a shot... Lets see, it all began about 7 years, two months, and three days ago...the day that I truly began to realize that miracles and wishes really do come true. :) The day was August 20th, 2003. The night before was how it all started. Growing up, my best friend Kendrie and I had this tradition of making predictions/hopes about life usually before something big was about to happen, like for example, new schools years, and this time around it was the night before our senior year. However, a lot of the time our wishes never got the chance to come true, at least not as of yet in hindsight. This night however changed my life forever. As I was rambling on to Kendrie, about something lost to me now, (I'm not kidding you), out of the corner of my eye, I saw my one and only shooting star. Knowing that it was the start of my senior year the next day, and it probably would be one of the last times I was going to get a chance like this, I made a wish. I wished that my senior year would bring on someone or something that would change my life forever as I knew it. I didn't think anything more of it as the night ended, and I went to sleep eagerly anticipating the next day... August 20th 2003, first day of senior year. Most of the day went on like normal first days of school, then it was time for third period-after lunch. I looked down at my schedule and realized that the class I had registered for the previous spring wasn't listed, so, I rushed to my counselor's office to re-add it, and got the now last available spot in the class. Looking back on it, I know fate was in the works then. I went on to the class, which was marketing, just in time for the second bell to ring, and right before the final bell rang, someone sat down in the seat next to me. :) That person I came to know as one of my favoritest people in the entire world, who I could now never imagine my world without, my good buddy Austin Powers. (Yes, that's his real name.) :)
It didn't take long into the school year for me to realize that he was the answer to the wish I had made weeks before, he was that person who would change my life forever. :) (None of this however is news to him, because I've told him numerous times before, so he won't be shocked if he reads this, and if he is, sorry buddy, gotcha! lol. Love ya!) :) One of the first things that made me realize that he was brought into my life for a reason, was that he said "hi" to me right away in the first few seconds, and was very welcoming with his big smile that I've come to know and love, which at that time, kinda caught me off guard, especially since most people are kinda stand offish when they first meet me, once they notice I have a disability. That was another thing, he never once asked me, "what's wrong with you?" like most other people jumped to. In fact, that shocked me, so, finally one day I just told him my story while we were sitting there in class waiting for our assignments to print out. As I looked at his face, trying to read how he was taking it, like I did with most other people, all I could see were smiles. He had even turned his chair to face me as I told my story, to give me his attention, and at the very end he said, "cool". I knew right then that he accepted me for who I was, and that it would never matter to him at all that I was different. To him, I was just one of the group, no matter what anyone else said, and I know for a fact he would probably punch anyone in the face that said otherwise, because I was (and always will be) his DooLeY girl, and that's all they needed to know. :)
As the year went on, beyond our marketing class, our friendship lasted. It was/is a friendship of legends. :) Though, early that spring, more than ever, (due to certain circumstances) I knew something was up, and it truly didn't matter what it was, but I knew I was going to do everything I could to stand by Austin with all that I had, whole heartedly, because he had always done the same for me, no matter what anyone else chooses to believe, he was my guardian angel and my hero, whenever I needed him. It would've taken a bullet to get me to stop believing. I have always believed in the theory of "namaste", which means, "the good in me salutes the good in you", and there is goodness in everybody, as to which I saw/see the goodness in Austin every time I was around him. That's what true friendship love is. As months went by, I looked at the calendar, and realized it was now August 20th 2004, exactly one year from the day I first met Austin, and so I decided to celebrate it. (as I do now every year as well.) So, later that afternoon, I went and got my first professionally done tattoo, since he and I had always talked about taking me to get one. It was/is a shooting star cluster that resides on my shoulder blade for all of eternity in honor of that first shooting star, and that one wish, that had us meet each other. Over the years we have remained friends even if life has us near or far, and now here we are October 24th 2010, and once again Austin is back, and even though those closest to us only know the full extented story, the full legend continues.... Great Great Grandchildren will know the story of Austin and DooLeY! **Pounds** & ~Swiggles!~
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
A special shoutout: "Gimme some cheese!" :)
Hey everyone! I told you I would be back as soon as I had a chance to sit down and process my thoughts after my vacation, so, here I am! :) As you all know I went on vacation almost a month ago now (WOW) to Kentucky to see my one of my bestest friends Melissa and her boys Tristen and Kayleb, who are my adopted nephews. :) I really can't even believe that much time has passed already, it's crazy, and feels literally like yesterday that I just got there. I miss it terribly so much already that it's not even funny. I even missed it before I left their airport to come home. It truly changed my life. I had been needing a vacation for such a long time that it was the perfect fit. :) I needed a break to relax and refresh, and it was just that. :) I was able to leave there with the clear head and renewed heart that I had been striving to find again for such a long time. I finally had a sense of belonging which I truly had not felt for a very long time either, and if anything even ever came close to that feeling, it's sadly very short lived. In my previous blog entry, I talked about the few things that had marked my summer months, and the reasons those moments in particular stuck out/mattered so much to me, was because those were each the last times (to that date) that I felt any sense of belonging, until my trip. :) I had the chance to spend time with, and meet great people who I have always considered family, it was so neat. I don't think there was a time where a smile left my face (and if it did, it was most likely due to laughing) and it immediately came right back. :)
In short, My trip was also spent by experiencing fine "Kentucky original" dining, many fun days poolside, a very special birthday luau for Kayleb, and of course... The Joan Jett concert! :) I'll get to that in a minute, but first I have to say something. Melissa, Tristen and Kayleb warmed my heart SO much while I was there, that I often cried from happiness tears every night before going to sleep. Kayleb even told me that I was the best and his favorite birthday present that he could have gotten this year. When really, it has been a truly greater honor to be a part of those boys' lives. ♥ :) I love the fact that they see as normal, and always have, for that is one of the greatest gifts I could be given. :) They are the best nephews anyone could ask for. ♥ I admire Melissa very much for the person that she is, people always tell me how I inspire them, but she truly inspires me. She is one of the most strong and kind hearted women I know. I hope to be like her as a woman and a mother, (when and if I get the chance to be), because she has shown me that happiness and strength can be found anywhere, and when life throws you for a loop, or knocks you down, you can and will pick yourself up again... (and not just in the physical sense that I almost face-literally everyday.) lol. :) Laughter is and was an everyday gift with her. ♥
Joan Jett night was one of the best nights EVER, and I'm glad I got to spend it with her.♥ Not many people know this, (well they do now, after all my frantic postings, and videos,) but Joan Jett has truly been one of my biggest idols for literally half my life. It was so awesome to finally get to see her perform live! :) To me, it's women like her and her old friend Cherie Currie (from her Runaways days) that make us know we are all rock stars as women, from the first time I heard her (when I was like 12-13ish or something), I knew that I too wanted to have that same attitude about myself, and toward anyone who was rude about my disability! "F@$k 'em!" lol. :) I knew that I too deserved to hold myself to the highest regard, never lower my standards, and to stand strong for my beliefs no matter what anyone else says, (even if I have to sing or scream them at my loudest to get anyone's attention), OR even if I'm standing alone. The greatest thing about that night with Joan though, was that she proved (after getting hurt, and like me) that you don't always have to be able to stand up to be able to rock it out, like the truest of rock stars that her and I are. :) I will truly hold that experience in a VERY special part of my heart always! Thank you so much to Melissa and Marsha! We definitely "got it at Joan Jett" didn't we? lol. :) ♥
To all my newly found Louisville family, I WILL be BACK! (Sinister laughter)..lol! :) Thank you to Pat "Pops" for being the very BEST second dad any girl could ask for. It was an honor to meet you and to be a part of your life for a week or so. ♥ And to my most lovely ladies, Marsha and Ann, I love you guys to death so much, and I'm so thankful to have gotten the chance to meet you as well, and can't wait to make more memories the minute I get back. :) Thank you for being a part of Melissa's life, and for filling in when I'm not able to. I love you all! :)
In short, My trip was also spent by experiencing fine "Kentucky original" dining, many fun days poolside, a very special birthday luau for Kayleb, and of course... The Joan Jett concert! :) I'll get to that in a minute, but first I have to say something. Melissa, Tristen and Kayleb warmed my heart SO much while I was there, that I often cried from happiness tears every night before going to sleep. Kayleb even told me that I was the best and his favorite birthday present that he could have gotten this year. When really, it has been a truly greater honor to be a part of those boys' lives. ♥ :) I love the fact that they see as normal, and always have, for that is one of the greatest gifts I could be given. :) They are the best nephews anyone could ask for. ♥ I admire Melissa very much for the person that she is, people always tell me how I inspire them, but she truly inspires me. She is one of the most strong and kind hearted women I know. I hope to be like her as a woman and a mother, (when and if I get the chance to be), because she has shown me that happiness and strength can be found anywhere, and when life throws you for a loop, or knocks you down, you can and will pick yourself up again... (and not just in the physical sense that I almost face-literally everyday.) lol. :) Laughter is and was an everyday gift with her. ♥
Joan Jett night was one of the best nights EVER, and I'm glad I got to spend it with her.♥ Not many people know this, (well they do now, after all my frantic postings, and videos,) but Joan Jett has truly been one of my biggest idols for literally half my life. It was so awesome to finally get to see her perform live! :) To me, it's women like her and her old friend Cherie Currie (from her Runaways days) that make us know we are all rock stars as women, from the first time I heard her (when I was like 12-13ish or something), I knew that I too wanted to have that same attitude about myself, and toward anyone who was rude about my disability! "F@$k 'em!" lol. :) I knew that I too deserved to hold myself to the highest regard, never lower my standards, and to stand strong for my beliefs no matter what anyone else says, (even if I have to sing or scream them at my loudest to get anyone's attention), OR even if I'm standing alone. The greatest thing about that night with Joan though, was that she proved (after getting hurt, and like me) that you don't always have to be able to stand up to be able to rock it out, like the truest of rock stars that her and I are. :) I will truly hold that experience in a VERY special part of my heart always! Thank you so much to Melissa and Marsha! We definitely "got it at Joan Jett" didn't we? lol. :) ♥
To all my newly found Louisville family, I WILL be BACK! (Sinister laughter)..lol! :) Thank you to Pat "Pops" for being the very BEST second dad any girl could ask for. It was an honor to meet you and to be a part of your life for a week or so. ♥ And to my most lovely ladies, Marsha and Ann, I love you guys to death so much, and I'm so thankful to have gotten the chance to meet you as well, and can't wait to make more memories the minute I get back. :) Thank you for being a part of Melissa's life, and for filling in when I'm not able to. I love you all! :)
Friday, August 13, 2010
Summer Recap!
Hi Everybody! Oh my gosh, I'm sorry it has been literally like FOREVER since I last wrote! I feel awful... I'm back though, so it's all good. :) Let's see when was the last time I wrote? June? Oh my, I have a lot (but still somewhat of nothing) to catch you up on! lol. :) I had a few big events happen so far this summer that I sorta kept everybody posted on through my Facebook statuses, and still a couple that are so amazing, but that won't happen yet until next week. Let's see, this summer I was part of a women's small group book study at my church (Timberline) where we read and studied the book, "Experiencing God", and what an experience it truly was! :) It was phenomenal! :) The friends I met/made during those 9 weeks are some of the best people I'll ever meet, and they will always be treasures to me. They definitely helped me through some hard times, and helped me grow as a person, as well as grow in my relationship with God... What a truly priceless journey, I love those girls! :)
June was a very anticipated and exciting month for me, why you ask? As if anybody doesn't know already right? lol... The Twilight Saga: Eclipse finally premiered! :) YAY!!!! Lol! :) I had been counting down the days since November, from the very day after New Moon came out. Yes, I am an addict, (a Twihard if you will), I mean, after all, look at my blog template for goodness sakes! lol. :) Anyways, I had planned to dress up since other people did for the other movies, little did I know what was in store for me at the theater we went to.. This time around, at the midnight premiere of Eclipse, I was THE ONLY one dressed up! :) It was funny but also a very priceless/happy memory all at the same time! I went dressed as Alice Cullen, and as nobody else was dressed up at all, and I got wheeled in on my wheelchair that we took for waiting in line, I heard somebody say, "Well now, that's Fort Collins' Princess of Twihards right there if I ever saw one..." My best friend Kendrie later then renamed me "MarveAlice Mandy" (a spin off of Alice, and my nickname of "Marvelous Mandy"), while we were waiting for the movie. :) That was one of the best nights of my entire life. I'm really glad and thankful that I got to spend it with Kendrie before she moved to Kansas later in the summer for dental hygienist school. After all, she is the one that created the original "MarveAlice" look by doing my hair and makeup. :) It was nice to get attention for something other than being disabled, I truly felt beautiful for the first time in a VERY LONG time. I was even given a free original Twilight movie banner by the theater employees right in front of everyone! :) That was one great night! So in love with the movie, we saw it 5 times in its first week and a half of opening, (2 of those times were in the first 24 hours), and the one that was later in the day, was my first time at the IMAX, it was very fun! :)
My July memory is that of the annual 4 day Casper & Alcova, WY camping trip with the Schure family. This year was my first year, and it too was priceless! I have never been to either places, so it was fun to make memories of finally being there. :) The first night was spent in Casper for Stan's reunion show with his old band Flashback, and that was totally awesome! I had never seen him play live (other than in the backyard) or with his full group before, it was so neat to see him happy, and in his true element. :) I met some really cool new people, as well as seeing some old faces, who hadn't seen me for a while, or some even not since I was a kid, so that too was very cool! :) I'll take that weekend's memory with me in my heart always, all the bonding with great people (old, present, and new friends) all the laughs, smiles, good tears, the music, the beautifully amazing canyon scenery, (along with the cliff diving) and absolutely everything else too! Nothing will ever be forgotten, see ya next year Alcova! :)
Now, my greatest August memory hasn't happened yet, at least not until next week anyways,(August 17-26th), so I'll definitely have to write more about it when I get back, I promise! All I can tell you is that I MarveAlice Mandy am going on my 2nd only ever flight to Kentucky, to see my very good friend Melissa and her boys, after not seeing them for 5 years, and it's gonna rock... Literally! Why?! :) The trip also includes an appearance by the one and only Queen of rock & roll herself, Joan Jett! I'm SO not kidding! What will happen when her and I (the truest rock star of disabled chicks) collide? Stay tuned! :)
June was a very anticipated and exciting month for me, why you ask? As if anybody doesn't know already right? lol... The Twilight Saga: Eclipse finally premiered! :) YAY!!!! Lol! :) I had been counting down the days since November, from the very day after New Moon came out. Yes, I am an addict, (a Twihard if you will), I mean, after all, look at my blog template for goodness sakes! lol. :) Anyways, I had planned to dress up since other people did for the other movies, little did I know what was in store for me at the theater we went to.. This time around, at the midnight premiere of Eclipse, I was THE ONLY one dressed up! :) It was funny but also a very priceless/happy memory all at the same time! I went dressed as Alice Cullen, and as nobody else was dressed up at all, and I got wheeled in on my wheelchair that we took for waiting in line, I heard somebody say, "Well now, that's Fort Collins' Princess of Twihards right there if I ever saw one..." My best friend Kendrie later then renamed me "MarveAlice Mandy" (a spin off of Alice, and my nickname of "Marvelous Mandy"), while we were waiting for the movie. :) That was one of the best nights of my entire life. I'm really glad and thankful that I got to spend it with Kendrie before she moved to Kansas later in the summer for dental hygienist school. After all, she is the one that created the original "MarveAlice" look by doing my hair and makeup. :) It was nice to get attention for something other than being disabled, I truly felt beautiful for the first time in a VERY LONG time. I was even given a free original Twilight movie banner by the theater employees right in front of everyone! :) That was one great night! So in love with the movie, we saw it 5 times in its first week and a half of opening, (2 of those times were in the first 24 hours), and the one that was later in the day, was my first time at the IMAX, it was very fun! :)
My July memory is that of the annual 4 day Casper & Alcova, WY camping trip with the Schure family. This year was my first year, and it too was priceless! I have never been to either places, so it was fun to make memories of finally being there. :) The first night was spent in Casper for Stan's reunion show with his old band Flashback, and that was totally awesome! I had never seen him play live (other than in the backyard) or with his full group before, it was so neat to see him happy, and in his true element. :) I met some really cool new people, as well as seeing some old faces, who hadn't seen me for a while, or some even not since I was a kid, so that too was very cool! :) I'll take that weekend's memory with me in my heart always, all the bonding with great people (old, present, and new friends) all the laughs, smiles, good tears, the music, the beautifully amazing canyon scenery, (along with the cliff diving) and absolutely everything else too! Nothing will ever be forgotten, see ya next year Alcova! :)
Now, my greatest August memory hasn't happened yet, at least not until next week anyways,(August 17-26th), so I'll definitely have to write more about it when I get back, I promise! All I can tell you is that I MarveAlice Mandy am going on my 2nd only ever flight to Kentucky, to see my very good friend Melissa and her boys, after not seeing them for 5 years, and it's gonna rock... Literally! Why?! :) The trip also includes an appearance by the one and only Queen of rock & roll herself, Joan Jett! I'm SO not kidding! What will happen when her and I (the truest rock star of disabled chicks) collide? Stay tuned! :)
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Growing pains really do hurt-
Hi everyone,
I don't really know what to write about today, because nothing really new has happened lately. I just felt like writing for the fun of it I guess. I hope this finds all of you well, and with smiles on your faces. :) The past few weeks have been pretty uneventful in mine and the Zigster's lives. I figure this is probably one of those times in our lives that has been dubbed a "growing period" for us to really just have time to ourselves, and to discover what our next move in life should be, and let me tell you, that is really hard for me as it usually is for most other people as well. That is why I titled this entry what I did, because some days it just hurts. I am or will be taking part in a small group study through my ministry entitled, "Experiencing God", and in the first section of the study that I did ahead of time tonight, it talked about how we as people either just trust completely that at the end of everyday we did all that we were meant to do, while others of us want to know all the whos, whats, wheres, whens and whys of life, in a sort of "road map" format from Him, before proceeding forward with anything. I find myself being on the fence with both sides of that situation. Most days, deep down, I tend to just simply believe that I've done everything He wanted me to do that day, but other days when I feel like I'm not being guided or propelled in any which way whatsoever, it just makes it hard to belief that I'm just supposed to sit and wait. And, when things seem to actually be going blessfully well for no reason, there may even be a wrench suddenly thrown into the works, to set everything off into a whole other direction, which then may not even be answered as to why anything caused that for a very long time. Many people say that through prayer, the answers are either, yes, no, or maybe. The trouble I still wonder and often get hung up on, is whether the answer to something is to just simply wait longer or that it truly is a no. What do you do? Is there a time limit on when to accept the answer as a no or to continue waiting 30 years or until the day you die? That plainly just confuses me I guess.
I look back on the last 6 years since I graduated high school, and remember my senior year as the best continual time in my life up to date. That was a time when we were all still so eager to greet, and be a part of the big "real world". That is, before any of us knew the harshness of it all. Really, what was the rush? I mean, the drama excels, issues and choices are on a much larger scale, and have a much different outcome, and all your money goes to bills. What is the fun in, or hurry for that? I feel like I've let myself and a lot of other people down, because all of us had such believable aspirations for me, that now almost 7 years later still have not been able to be met, and in all honesty, that truly just simply breaks my heart. And as I have tried to make efforts to get the ball rolling in any positive direction, it just seems to get stopped in its tracks. I hate feeling this way about myself because I'm not normally like this on a regular basis, and as much as I work hard to not let people see it, I struggle sometimes too I guess. How much more can a person take sometimes, you know? As much as I treasure and love my CP, for how it has made me who I am, and all the stronger for having my identity wrapped up in it all my life, all I can say is, it takes a lot for me to just be me everyday of this life.
I don't really know what to write about today, because nothing really new has happened lately. I just felt like writing for the fun of it I guess. I hope this finds all of you well, and with smiles on your faces. :) The past few weeks have been pretty uneventful in mine and the Zigster's lives. I figure this is probably one of those times in our lives that has been dubbed a "growing period" for us to really just have time to ourselves, and to discover what our next move in life should be, and let me tell you, that is really hard for me as it usually is for most other people as well. That is why I titled this entry what I did, because some days it just hurts. I am or will be taking part in a small group study through my ministry entitled, "Experiencing God", and in the first section of the study that I did ahead of time tonight, it talked about how we as people either just trust completely that at the end of everyday we did all that we were meant to do, while others of us want to know all the whos, whats, wheres, whens and whys of life, in a sort of "road map" format from Him, before proceeding forward with anything. I find myself being on the fence with both sides of that situation. Most days, deep down, I tend to just simply believe that I've done everything He wanted me to do that day, but other days when I feel like I'm not being guided or propelled in any which way whatsoever, it just makes it hard to belief that I'm just supposed to sit and wait. And, when things seem to actually be going blessfully well for no reason, there may even be a wrench suddenly thrown into the works, to set everything off into a whole other direction, which then may not even be answered as to why anything caused that for a very long time. Many people say that through prayer, the answers are either, yes, no, or maybe. The trouble I still wonder and often get hung up on, is whether the answer to something is to just simply wait longer or that it truly is a no. What do you do? Is there a time limit on when to accept the answer as a no or to continue waiting 30 years or until the day you die? That plainly just confuses me I guess.
I look back on the last 6 years since I graduated high school, and remember my senior year as the best continual time in my life up to date. That was a time when we were all still so eager to greet, and be a part of the big "real world". That is, before any of us knew the harshness of it all. Really, what was the rush? I mean, the drama excels, issues and choices are on a much larger scale, and have a much different outcome, and all your money goes to bills. What is the fun in, or hurry for that? I feel like I've let myself and a lot of other people down, because all of us had such believable aspirations for me, that now almost 7 years later still have not been able to be met, and in all honesty, that truly just simply breaks my heart. And as I have tried to make efforts to get the ball rolling in any positive direction, it just seems to get stopped in its tracks. I hate feeling this way about myself because I'm not normally like this on a regular basis, and as much as I work hard to not let people see it, I struggle sometimes too I guess. How much more can a person take sometimes, you know? As much as I treasure and love my CP, for how it has made me who I am, and all the stronger for having my identity wrapped up in it all my life, all I can say is, it takes a lot for me to just be me everyday of this life.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
I rock out with my Black out!.. :)
Hey everyone, sorry it has been a while since I've written. My life has been crazy busy, while also being very uneventful all at the same time. Don't ask me how, but it's true. Last everyone knew I was getting really excited to see my favorite boys, The Black Apples, as they came through town on their spring tour-like trip on April 24th. It was totally awesome, as always, to be reunited with them. :) This time around, it was the first time I went to one of their shows alone, until later in the night when Kendrie could join me after getting off work, so that in itself was a big step. All my life, people have been protective of me, and not wanting me to go into certain settings by myself, when really, anything could happen to anyone going into situations every other day of life... So, I was really happy to say that I could add this on to my "steps toward independence" list of life. Anyways, the night was pretty fun! Every time they come back into town is extremely memorable worthy, but there were a couple things that stuck out differently special than other times, (besides their record release in July being announced.) There was this crazy chick fan there, who thought she could out-scream me in cheering for them, but guess what? I won! :) A lot of people don't know the story of how I came to know the boys, and once they do, they understand why the boys will always be close family to Ziggy and I, so in turn I would like to believe that we know them fairly better then most people that show up there...JK! :) They are like the additional brothers I never had. We shared a duplex apartment together, in the purple house apartment that I lived in, before I moved to where I am now. I lived there for two years and nine months, and they moved in the last year I was there. I lived in the basement, and they had the upstairs. We never knew each other beforehand, but now looking back, I could never imagine my life without them having been a part of it. :) They are truly great and genuine people. They automatically accepted me for who and or how I am/was, without ever once questioning my disability, that just never was a mattering factor to them at all. They always looked after Ziggy and I as well. :) I never once had to go to one of their shows while they lived here, because I always got a free concert when they were home practicing, so that was always neat. :) To this day, their beats still calm Ziggy when I play their songs. :) So I guess in a long story, already shortened as much as possible, with our lives indirectly intertwined, they're like family to us as I said, and that is also why I call them "My boys". ♥ We (Ziggy and I) love them for who they are, and for what they have brought into our lives unconditionally, no matter what. And yes, they already know this, so they won't be embarrassed or surprised if they read or hear of this...lol... Love you guys! :) That leads me to my second favorite memory of the night, after out-cheering that girl... And that is that they openly shared with people that they saw me as their "number 1 fan" (which of course I am), but it was nice to see that they acknowledged that as well. I never knew just quite how they truthfully viewed me until that moment. :) It truly is an honor. ♥ I told the newest band members, Jason and Nick, "welcome to the family" and I meant every word. :) I am very proud to be their #1 fan, as well as their local PR and advertiser, while they live in L.A., so I guess that would leave me to my last matter on this subject... If you ever would like to meet amazing, honest, and truthfully genuine people, along with hearing some rockin' music all at the same time, come to the next Black Apples show the next time you hear it's on the circuit. :)
The other most recent things in my life have been fairly good. My driving ventures still continue to be a work in progress. Unfortunately, there's not really much new to share about it, as much as I would like there to be. I have been getting better in most of the areas I previously had trouble with, but it is still not great. So; as soon as I feel like things are looking up, more things are added, and it just sends me two steps back, after I feel like I've only taken three in the first place. We are discovering that my vision may be more of an issue than it was believed to be, so I just hope and pray it doesn't throw too much of a wrench into the works. In the world of my PT, I am down to my last two visits in the next two weeks. As I get closer to the end, they have weened me down to only going once a week. As I have said before, I am excited for, and proud of myself for choosing to go back into it last August. I just hope I can keep the good progress with the home stretches and fitness plan at the gym. So on both these matters, I ask that you please keep me n your prayers and good thoughts.
I just want to share this brief story.- A couple weeks ago, I helped two friends with their year end projects, which they did on CP. One was at FRCC, and the other one was at UNC. I really enjoyed doing them both, and was honored that they both chose CP, and asked for me to help. I live for that kind of stuff, I love advocating, because I often think, "if I'm not able to, who is?" Anyways, the one at FRCC went off without a hitch, including the Q&A session, which also went very well. Two days later was UNC's turn. everything went really well as well, even the point of the most awkwardness I've experienced in a very long time. I told everyone that I was open to answering anything, so to feel free to asking anything. Then it happened... I got the same basic questions everyone always asks from the students, and then all the sudden the TEACHER of all people asks me about my SEX life...!!! I then actually said, "well, that leaves the book wide open, now doesn't it?!" lol. I felt I needed to stay true to my word, and answer all the questions, so I did, with as much composure I could muster up despite all the humorous shock I was feeling. So, the next time you think something is awkward, just think of this story, and nothing will seem as bad...especially from a professional boundary standpoint. :) I laugh, and would just like to think that things like that just come from living a day in the life of being Mandy, and say, "Oh well", and or "it could be worse!" lol. :)
I believe that is all I can think of, to catch everybody up on from the last month or so, so I hope that something I said was able to bring a smile to your face, or make you laugh. :) One last and final note though... My good friend PJ of the last 7+ years or so, just recently joined the Marines, and headed off to basic training last weekend. I ask that he be kept in your thoughts and prayers as well, that he is watched over, and kept safe enough to come back to us, and that he is given the courage and strength to stay brave and always smiling, I miss him bunches already! :)
***ONLY 43 MORE DAYS UNTIL THE TWILIGHT: ECLIPSE PREMIERE!!!*** Do you have your tickets ready?! I do! :) I got them the second they went on pre-sale on May 14th @ fandango.com! Eclipse was my favorite book of the saga, so I plan on seeing it a bunch of times if it's not butchered from the book, but we'll see!!! :) As for now, I am signing off with love, and hope everyone is dong very well! :)...♥
The other most recent things in my life have been fairly good. My driving ventures still continue to be a work in progress. Unfortunately, there's not really much new to share about it, as much as I would like there to be. I have been getting better in most of the areas I previously had trouble with, but it is still not great. So; as soon as I feel like things are looking up, more things are added, and it just sends me two steps back, after I feel like I've only taken three in the first place. We are discovering that my vision may be more of an issue than it was believed to be, so I just hope and pray it doesn't throw too much of a wrench into the works. In the world of my PT, I am down to my last two visits in the next two weeks. As I get closer to the end, they have weened me down to only going once a week. As I have said before, I am excited for, and proud of myself for choosing to go back into it last August. I just hope I can keep the good progress with the home stretches and fitness plan at the gym. So on both these matters, I ask that you please keep me n your prayers and good thoughts.
I just want to share this brief story.- A couple weeks ago, I helped two friends with their year end projects, which they did on CP. One was at FRCC, and the other one was at UNC. I really enjoyed doing them both, and was honored that they both chose CP, and asked for me to help. I live for that kind of stuff, I love advocating, because I often think, "if I'm not able to, who is?" Anyways, the one at FRCC went off without a hitch, including the Q&A session, which also went very well. Two days later was UNC's turn. everything went really well as well, even the point of the most awkwardness I've experienced in a very long time. I told everyone that I was open to answering anything, so to feel free to asking anything. Then it happened... I got the same basic questions everyone always asks from the students, and then all the sudden the TEACHER of all people asks me about my SEX life...!!! I then actually said, "well, that leaves the book wide open, now doesn't it?!" lol. I felt I needed to stay true to my word, and answer all the questions, so I did, with as much composure I could muster up despite all the humorous shock I was feeling. So, the next time you think something is awkward, just think of this story, and nothing will seem as bad...especially from a professional boundary standpoint. :) I laugh, and would just like to think that things like that just come from living a day in the life of being Mandy, and say, "Oh well", and or "it could be worse!" lol. :)
I believe that is all I can think of, to catch everybody up on from the last month or so, so I hope that something I said was able to bring a smile to your face, or make you laugh. :) One last and final note though... My good friend PJ of the last 7+ years or so, just recently joined the Marines, and headed off to basic training last weekend. I ask that he be kept in your thoughts and prayers as well, that he is watched over, and kept safe enough to come back to us, and that he is given the courage and strength to stay brave and always smiling, I miss him bunches already! :)
***ONLY 43 MORE DAYS UNTIL THE TWILIGHT: ECLIPSE PREMIERE!!!*** Do you have your tickets ready?! I do! :) I got them the second they went on pre-sale on May 14th @ fandango.com! Eclipse was my favorite book of the saga, so I plan on seeing it a bunch of times if it's not butchered from the book, but we'll see!!! :) As for now, I am signing off with love, and hope everyone is dong very well! :)...♥
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
This Wednesday definitely seems Wacky,,,
Hey everyone!
Today has definitely been a day of days, let me tell ya. As most of you know, ever since my junior year of high school, Wednesdays have been commemorated as Wonderfully Wacky Wednesdays, but today simply appears to be just whacked. First of all at 9AM this morning I had my hand controls driving lesson. Over the past couple weeks I've vented through my facebook status how the instructor is just not a good fit for me, and today it was continually confirmed. I just don't really handle the "let's be patronizing toward disabled people" attitude very well. I don't stand for that BS. As one of my previous statuses said, "I think it's so sickening when abled people so obviously use fake compassion in trying to pretend like they know what it's like to be disabled, just for their own personal brownie-point benefit, when really they should just turn around before I puke all over 'em! No joke! lol." That statement is still so very true today, as it was the day I wrote it, and will be true everyday after this. Nobody can ever know what's it's like to be disabled until it happens for them, and even then, each case is entirely different from another so amongst us there are only general similarities we can all relate to. If there was one good thing my parents taught me, it's to fight to the death for what you believe in. I fought my way into this world, and I will continue to fight my way through til the day I die, because only then will the answer be no. If my family always just took the first thing and or diagnosis that was ever just said about me, then there would be no way I would be the person I am, or gotten to where I am today. Long story short, the only two people who truly call the shots for me in my life are myself and God. So for future reference, to this specific person, and anybody else, I am not stupid, dumb or slow, and I can hear... So please, no longer speak as if I am either of those things, or hard of hearing, because in the end, the only person that appears that way is you, and that you like to hear yourself speak... Sorry to burst your bubble.
Later this afternoon, I heard news that things just got worse, my aunt's dog died. Zee was a great dog, and was part of lives during our childhood. She was 14 years old, and went in her sleep last night. Zee and my aunt Gladys had been through a lot together, due to circumstances that changed all of our lives forever years ago, she could've died back then, but she held on because she loved Gladys. :) One of my favorite memories with Zee was when Gladys lived near us, and we had a snow day once when Gladys brought her over. We took Zee outside to play with us, and made snowballs to play fetch with, and she would eat them midair. :) We all thought it was really funny. :) In fact, nowadays whenever it snows close enough to a snow day, that is one of the three memories we all have about them. :) Gladys also used to let us tag along to the LaundroMutt to watch her get a bath, but she was always terrified of it, only to go for a swim in the lake once they got home anyways. lol. :) She was truly precious, RIP Zee, We loved you very much. ♥
So today was just a bit too much of an overload for me with off-ness, I really hope things get actually better soon, because I'm not sure how many more days coincidentally I can take, that just continue in an off pattern, it really is not fun!
Today has definitely been a day of days, let me tell ya. As most of you know, ever since my junior year of high school, Wednesdays have been commemorated as Wonderfully Wacky Wednesdays, but today simply appears to be just whacked. First of all at 9AM this morning I had my hand controls driving lesson. Over the past couple weeks I've vented through my facebook status how the instructor is just not a good fit for me, and today it was continually confirmed. I just don't really handle the "let's be patronizing toward disabled people" attitude very well. I don't stand for that BS. As one of my previous statuses said, "I think it's so sickening when abled people so obviously use fake compassion in trying to pretend like they know what it's like to be disabled, just for their own personal brownie-point benefit, when really they should just turn around before I puke all over 'em! No joke! lol." That statement is still so very true today, as it was the day I wrote it, and will be true everyday after this. Nobody can ever know what's it's like to be disabled until it happens for them, and even then, each case is entirely different from another so amongst us there are only general similarities we can all relate to. If there was one good thing my parents taught me, it's to fight to the death for what you believe in. I fought my way into this world, and I will continue to fight my way through til the day I die, because only then will the answer be no. If my family always just took the first thing and or diagnosis that was ever just said about me, then there would be no way I would be the person I am, or gotten to where I am today. Long story short, the only two people who truly call the shots for me in my life are myself and God. So for future reference, to this specific person, and anybody else, I am not stupid, dumb or slow, and I can hear... So please, no longer speak as if I am either of those things, or hard of hearing, because in the end, the only person that appears that way is you, and that you like to hear yourself speak... Sorry to burst your bubble.
Later this afternoon, I heard news that things just got worse, my aunt's dog died. Zee was a great dog, and was part of lives during our childhood. She was 14 years old, and went in her sleep last night. Zee and my aunt Gladys had been through a lot together, due to circumstances that changed all of our lives forever years ago, she could've died back then, but she held on because she loved Gladys. :) One of my favorite memories with Zee was when Gladys lived near us, and we had a snow day once when Gladys brought her over. We took Zee outside to play with us, and made snowballs to play fetch with, and she would eat them midair. :) We all thought it was really funny. :) In fact, nowadays whenever it snows close enough to a snow day, that is one of the three memories we all have about them. :) Gladys also used to let us tag along to the LaundroMutt to watch her get a bath, but she was always terrified of it, only to go for a swim in the lake once they got home anyways. lol. :) She was truly precious, RIP Zee, We loved you very much. ♥
So today was just a bit too much of an overload for me with off-ness, I really hope things get actually better soon, because I'm not sure how many more days coincidentally I can take, that just continue in an off pattern, it really is not fun!
Saturday, April 10, 2010
To Dr. Sobel with LOVE!!! :)
Earlier tonight I was watching Mr Holland's Opus, and I must have needed a good happy cry, because I bawled my eyes out. It wasn't until the very end scene that I registered the similarities between Mr. Holland and someone very important in my life. That person is Dr. Roger Sobel. Dr. Sobel has been in my life since I've existed, or so I choose to believe, since he has been there as far back as I can remember. My first remembered memories were of when I was a year and a half old. Dr. Sobel is the orthopedic doctor who performed all my surgeries, which have been many, between that of 10-12 somewhere. I could never imagine my life without him having been in it, I still can't, and that's where I tend to tear up a lot lately, almost everyday, because he just like Mr Holland is retiring at the end of this month. :( :( :( :( :(!!!!
Just the same as the last scene in the movie said, Dr. Sobel's life was never misspent. He is not rich or famous, except to those whose life he has been a part of. He is one of my greatest heroes to whom I always will hold very close in my heart. No amount of words, for the rest of my life, can truly explain just how very thankful and blessed I am to have known him, and to have him play an extremely intricate role in my life. :) From the very depths and every inch of my soul, it has been an honor. :) By him just simply stepping into my life all those years ago, he profoundly changed, and in the long run, SAVED my life by truly giving me the gift of life. He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. ♥ WITH LOVE, ALWAYS!!..Here's to you, Dr. Sobel, CHEERS!!... ♥
Just the same as the last scene in the movie said, Dr. Sobel's life was never misspent. He is not rich or famous, except to those whose life he has been a part of. He is one of my greatest heroes to whom I always will hold very close in my heart. No amount of words, for the rest of my life, can truly explain just how very thankful and blessed I am to have known him, and to have him play an extremely intricate role in my life. :) From the very depths and every inch of my soul, it has been an honor. :) By him just simply stepping into my life all those years ago, he profoundly changed, and in the long run, SAVED my life by truly giving me the gift of life. He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. ♥ WITH LOVE, ALWAYS!!..Here's to you, Dr. Sobel, CHEERS!!... ♥
Hello Out There!... What It Means to Believe...
Hi Everyone!
I am new to this whole blogging thing on Facebook, but I hope to really get into it just as much as I have with my MySpace one in the past. So please bare with me as I'm getting the hang of things one step as I go along. :) I figured having this blog would be an easier way for my friends, family and fans to have insight into my daily life, or as often as possible that I post stuff, instead of posting every occurrence or feeling as my FB status. So here goes nothing...lol... :)
Not a lot has really been going on in my life lately that is entirely too new, but I guess that's OK. I am now in my last month of physical therapy for this year that has been going on since August. I have really enjoyed and appreciated getting back into it after like a 15+ year or so absence. My insurance only pays for it in 6 months-year increments, so when May gets here I will be having to take a break until it can be renewed, which will on one end be nice, but I hope to be able to keep up and or hold the progress I've achieved thus far. I can bend again!! Lol. :) Therapy happens for me twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays, so at this point, that makes Thursdays the busiest day of the week for me because I go to Nine70 at Timberline Church here in town on Thursday evenings. Nine70 is a church ministry of young adults 18-35 years old. It consists of college students, young professionals, and young engaged/married couples. I have been going there for three years this October. It has really changed my life entirely, and has helped me to have a relationship with, and come to really know God. :)
I was never raised in church, so that was a BIG step for me to really allow my heart's guard down. Even since I was younger though, I always felt as if there had to be some sort of higher power out there, to choose me to be the way I am. :) Let me tell ya, miracles do and can happen. As most of you know my dad had gastric bypass surgery last summer, and long story short, there was a freak accident due to a reaction of his post-op medication, his heart stopped, his kidneys failed, and we almost lost him. :( He was on life support in ICU for a day, hospitalized for a week, and on dialysis for 4 months. Through walking every inch of the hospital, when I couldn't stand to see my family in so much pain and worry, and through prayer every day, all day, he eventually after those 4 months of dialysis, was given a clean bill of health since his kidney function had doubled, and he was able to return to life. :) Now if something like that didn't confirm my belief, I can't tell you what would! :)
On other good news updates and prayer, my mom was finally able to find a job after two years of being unemployed, and I couldn't be more excited and happy for her! :) YAY MAMA!!! :) We love ya! She'll now have something to cheer her up and look forward to doing everyday again. :) On a more personal note, my life has truly been blessed with the most greatest and exciting life- changing gift possible at this point in time, that some never thought I would ever be able to achieve, as many of you know, and that is.... DRIVING!!!! WOO-HOO!!! :) It is totally awesome! Being on the road is so freeing, and is the one place where I'm just as equal as anybody else, socially speaking. For once I'm not known as being the "disabled girl", no I'm as George Carlin once said, "handicapable!!" Or in my case, I guess that would be "MandyCapable!" Lol. :) I will be keeping you all updated on my adventures of the road as they happen, including but not limited to my car that has been dubbed Zues, and my interactions with crazy people who discriminate against the idea of my driving, which I look forward to, so I can prove them all wrong! Lol. :) As for now though, I'm going to say goodnight since it's after 2AM, and I never expected to type this long. :) Good night everybody, God bless! :)
I am new to this whole blogging thing on Facebook, but I hope to really get into it just as much as I have with my MySpace one in the past. So please bare with me as I'm getting the hang of things one step as I go along. :) I figured having this blog would be an easier way for my friends, family and fans to have insight into my daily life, or as often as possible that I post stuff, instead of posting every occurrence or feeling as my FB status. So here goes nothing...lol... :)
Not a lot has really been going on in my life lately that is entirely too new, but I guess that's OK. I am now in my last month of physical therapy for this year that has been going on since August. I have really enjoyed and appreciated getting back into it after like a 15+ year or so absence. My insurance only pays for it in 6 months-year increments, so when May gets here I will be having to take a break until it can be renewed, which will on one end be nice, but I hope to be able to keep up and or hold the progress I've achieved thus far. I can bend again!! Lol. :) Therapy happens for me twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays, so at this point, that makes Thursdays the busiest day of the week for me because I go to Nine70 at Timberline Church here in town on Thursday evenings. Nine70 is a church ministry of young adults 18-35 years old. It consists of college students, young professionals, and young engaged/married couples. I have been going there for three years this October. It has really changed my life entirely, and has helped me to have a relationship with, and come to really know God. :)
I was never raised in church, so that was a BIG step for me to really allow my heart's guard down. Even since I was younger though, I always felt as if there had to be some sort of higher power out there, to choose me to be the way I am. :) Let me tell ya, miracles do and can happen. As most of you know my dad had gastric bypass surgery last summer, and long story short, there was a freak accident due to a reaction of his post-op medication, his heart stopped, his kidneys failed, and we almost lost him. :( He was on life support in ICU for a day, hospitalized for a week, and on dialysis for 4 months. Through walking every inch of the hospital, when I couldn't stand to see my family in so much pain and worry, and through prayer every day, all day, he eventually after those 4 months of dialysis, was given a clean bill of health since his kidney function had doubled, and he was able to return to life. :) Now if something like that didn't confirm my belief, I can't tell you what would! :)
On other good news updates and prayer, my mom was finally able to find a job after two years of being unemployed, and I couldn't be more excited and happy for her! :) YAY MAMA!!! :) We love ya! She'll now have something to cheer her up and look forward to doing everyday again. :) On a more personal note, my life has truly been blessed with the most greatest and exciting life- changing gift possible at this point in time, that some never thought I would ever be able to achieve, as many of you know, and that is.... DRIVING!!!! WOO-HOO!!! :) It is totally awesome! Being on the road is so freeing, and is the one place where I'm just as equal as anybody else, socially speaking. For once I'm not known as being the "disabled girl", no I'm as George Carlin once said, "handicapable!!" Or in my case, I guess that would be "MandyCapable!" Lol. :) I will be keeping you all updated on my adventures of the road as they happen, including but not limited to my car that has been dubbed Zues, and my interactions with crazy people who discriminate against the idea of my driving, which I look forward to, so I can prove them all wrong! Lol. :) As for now though, I'm going to say goodnight since it's after 2AM, and I never expected to type this long. :) Good night everybody, God bless! :)
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